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MISSING MABEL MABEL ANNA CROSMON SWANSON
August 24, 1914 to March 19, 2001A SPECIAL TRIBUTE FOR A VERY SPECIAL WOMAN
This year our town's annual Long Meddowe Days celebration is dedicated to the memory of Mabel Swanson. For those who knew Mabel, her passing has been hard on us. She was a "do-er", "an institution" and a person full of energy and vitality until this winter, when she died at home. She was a knowledgeable local antiquarian who shared generously of her time and talents.
It was a privilege and honor for me to know Mabel for the past five years. I learned so much from her, and enjoyed her perspective. Her dedication to this town was admirable and her love and appreciation of Longmeadow was boundless. She is irreplaceable! She was a hard worker with a keen mind, sharp wit and endless determination. Her contributions to this small town over the past 42 years are incredible.
It is difficult to accept the gap her death has left in this historic community. As a historian and Curator of the Storrs House, she worked quietly, independently and often alone, with great intensity, diligence and attention to detail. Mabel was modest and did her job without fanfare and sometimes without the recognition she deserved.
Mabel adored Longmeadow and felt it was her personal duty to keep the history of the place alive! She spoke of our forefathers and mothers as if she knew them personally. Her tours of the Storrs House were memorable and a delight for it was through her that I came to appreciate the vast treasures located in our museum house next to the library.
Mabel Crosmon, who was of English decent, was born in Winfield, which is now part of the town of Flushing in Queens, New York. She came to Massachusetts as a child, with her father and sister. After a period in a foster home they ended up in Springfield. She became involved with a Lutheran Church there, and met Carl G. Swanson, an orphan, in a confirmation class when they were both 14. They married in 1939, at the age of 25, and by 1942 had bought a large tract of land here. Mabel fell in love with Longmeadow! She and her new husband, both from broken homes, had saved money during the dark years of the depression so they could start a family and build a house. They built a home during the war years and moved into it in 1946. Their land stretched from Longmeadow Street to the river along Longview Street. Over the years some of their land was given to the town as conservation space, some went to the state for the highway in 1959, and the rest was sold as building lots.
Mabel and Carl had one daughter, Linda (now known as Linda Abrams) who was raised in Longmeadow and went through the school system. She was in one of the first graduating classes at Longmeadow High School in 1958. Linda has worked closely with her mother over the years and carries on the tradition of dedication to our town.
When Linda was grown and left home, Mabel decided to go back to work. She had been an active volunteer during her daughter's childhood, was involved in her church, the Maternal Association, and was a Girl Scout Leader among other roles she played as wife and mother.
When her husband became seriously ill with diabetes and she applied for a typist job at Storrs Library. Before long she was posted at the Circulation Desk where her quick mind and incredible memory assisted her. She was well suited for her position and soon was attending courses at AIC for American Literature, World Literature and a Reference Course taught by the Assistant Librarian at the Springfield Library. Soon she was enrolled in a cataloging course, which she attended at night at Brown University, while working full-time at the library. She later became Assistant Reference Librarian, started a Genealogy Room there in the basement and was employed by the Storrs Library from 1959 to 1980, a total of 21 years.
Mabel was not a retired woman for long! Tim Paige of the Longmeadow Historical Society had an idea! He offered Mabel a job that would more than occupy her for the last 21 years of her life. She became the Curator of the Storrs House and spent her time creating order in the large accumulation of books, manuscripts and papers. Organizing everything and creating an indexing method and filing system useful to researchers was her goal. She was extremely happy and content in her duties and was delighted to find a job that perfectly suited her. As a take charge person who liked her responsibilities she brought order to chaos. The professional appearance of Storrs House as it is today is due to Mabel's countless hours there. Her spirit will live on forever and her memory will be everlasting as those of us in the Historical Society carry on her good work.
Mabel Swanson was a Fellow of the American College of Genealogists, a long time member of the DAR and a charter member of the Woman Descendents of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Boston. Her name is also in the Hereditary Society Blue Book.
She was instrumental in aiding and assisting many researchers and authors with their work on topics relating to American History, the History of New England and most specifically the history of the Connecticut River Valley from 1600-2000. Her special contributions are noted in several books written within the past two decades. The Great River: Art and Society of the Connecticut River Valley 1635-1820 by William Hosley of the Wadsworth Atheneum, written in 1985, notes several pieces from our collection as significant artifacts of local history. After the Revolution: The Smithsonian History of Everyday Life in the 18th Century, also from 1985, by Barbara Clark Smith includes a detailed summary of the life of Samuel Colton. He was a prominent merchant living in Longmeadow during the Revolutionary Era whose story is remarkable. His relationship to the community and success as an international trader are vital to the understanding of our development in the early years as part of the British Colonies and then as part of the newly formed Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
A third text, Ornamental and Useful Accomplishments: Schoolgirl Education and Deerfield Academy 1800-1830, written in 1988, includes a special thanks to Mabel from Suzanne Lasher Flynt, Curator of the Memorial Hall Museum at Deerfield. Professor John Demos appreciated her help and knowledge of Eunice Williams for his book The Unredeemed Captive. She helped with an article about Longmeadow that appeared in Colonial Homes Magazine in December 1995.
In closing, let me add that Mabel passed away peacefully in her sleep on the last day of winter. It was a particularly long, cold, bleak and depressing winter season for Longmeadow residents and the loss of our Storrs House Curator was unexpected. She was extremely healthy for a woman of 86 with no major health complaints. She had not been to a doctor since 1940, except to receive some help with eyeglasses. When she became ill and needed some attention there were no records. I asked her daughter about Mabel's secrets for longevity. The answers were simple. Mabel was an avid reader and kept her mind sharp. She thought television was boring. She was not an avid sportswoman but as we know, she was extremely active and did not stay still for long. She went to bed early and rose at the crack of dawn because she always had much to accomplish!
May 24, 2001
THE MISSING LINK Connections, bonds and links will bring us together. During the month of May, there are several important dates to put on your calendar! The first date to remember is Sunday, May 6th, which is an informational meeting for voters. The Annual Town Meeting is on Tuesday, May 8th at 7:30 p.m. at the High School and the Town Election is on Tuesday, May 22nd at the Community House.
The Longmeadow Information Network for Kids, better known as LINK has just published their 4th issue of the LINK LETTER. Vital information concerning our schools and our children's future has been printed in this new format starting last fall. This group fills a void that existed in our town. A dedicated group of parents has joined to improve communication within our school system. LINK's mission is to work toward improving and strengthening communication about school issues among the Town of Longmeadow elected and appointed representatives, School Committee, PTO and PAC leadership and the Longmeadow Community.
A special gathering to "Meet the Candidates" will be held on Sunday, May 6th at the Community House from 4-5:30. There are three candidates running for two spots on the School Committee. There will also be a new Selectman to fill the spot that Arlene Miller will be vacating.
This year, and every year, it is vital that residents attend the town meeting. We need a 2/3 vote to pass a motion that will enable us to begin the town approved elementary school renovations earlier than expected. Two roofs at Blueberry Hill and Wolf Swamp need replacement. It may be penny wise and pound-foolish to pay for all of that expense now out of our own pockets. If the renovation work were started soon, the roof expense would be covered as part of the bigger project. We will receive partial state reimbursement later. The plan is to move the fifth graders back into the elementary schools to make more room in the middle schools. We need to look at the big picture.
Our schools are priceless and will prepare our children for the future. The LINK organization wants to bring the town together. Parents, grandparents, and residents of all ages know how important the schools are in this community. Remember that we are only as strong as our weakest link.
Need Help? We are lucky to have these parents coordinating this admirable effort. Please call them with questions, concerns or information that should be circulated. The four Chairpersons are Melinda Cropsey, Ellen McKenna, Janine McVay and Robin Rabideau.
April 26, 2001
SIMPLER TIMES, SIMPLE TRUTHS "[We have] the deep desire to keep as many links as possible between yesterday and tomorrow, to lose, in the ardor of new experience, the least that may be of the long rich heritage of human experience." -Edith Wharton
My grandmother would be celebrating her 100th birthday this year! She was born at home on a dairy farm in Woodbridge, Connecticut and had seven siblings. My cousins still run the farm and it is probably the only working farm near a major New England City. How long will it be able to operate into the 21st Century?
Life has changed dramatically in the last century! My grandmother's house had no telephone or modern plumbing. She got a model-T before she was 20. Air travel and space ships belonged to Buck Rogers "in the future". She walked over five miles a day to the one-room schoolhouse and became a nurse. She died after the Internet was born. My children use the computer for homework and send e-mail to their cousins in Chicago. What will the next one hundred years bring us?
After my graduation from college, 20 years ago, I used an electric typewriter and a computer that is a dinosaur by our standards today. The fax machine was introduced and it made everything much more efficient. When I visited my old office last year, my replacement had a cell phone, a beeper and e-mail to contend with, on top of the already hectic conditions of dealing with tons of regular mail and constant telephone calls. I was grateful to return to the peace and quiet of Longmeadow.I wish things could be simpler again. I hope some of our past can be preserved forever. We live in an extremely historic place, and it is our duty to care for and preserve the architecture and heritage of our town. Some things are worth keeping. The town green is the centerpiece of this community and is home to The Long Meddowe Days Celebration. This annual two-day event has become a part of our tradition and helps to unify us. I sincerely hope to attend this family event, run by the Longmeadow Historical Society, for many years to come.
The various boards and committees that comprise Longmeadow's town government should be working toward bringing us together. The right hand must know what the left hand is doing at all times and communication must improve! Various groups need to meet together on a regular basis to provide consistency and to insure we all have the same agenda for our security in the future.
In the center of town, across from The Storrs Library, a major renovation has begun. The Deacon Nathaniel Ely, Jr. brick house will be improved after the restoration is complete. Nevertheless, why was there such a lack of understanding by all parties involved? Initially I was surprised when I saw the rear of the 1785 home exposed, but the builder was given permission to go ahead…so he did. Were the rules clear and precise, and was the vital information available before demolition?
The truth is that the world of our grandparents is not the same as the world we will leave our grandchildren. The future will be different for us all, and many unexpected things may happen. Things have changed, but we should not abandon that which can preserve both the tangibles and intangibles of our collective identity. Proper planning is key.
April 12, 2001
WHERE ARE WE NOW? For those who missed the Long-Range Planning Meeting at Bay Path, it is not too late to brainstorm. Think about what your ideal town of Longmeadow would be…what would be included…would anything change?
The obvious priorities were discussed:
1. Insuring the financial security of the town without increasing property taxes.
2. Maintain the good reputation of the school, fix the buildings in disrepair and make teacher salaries more competitive.
3. Update the government structure to make it more efficient and cost effective.In addition, another observation was discussed:
4. Create/improve gathering places in town. People of all ages need to meet and the options for socializing are limited.The most central gathering place, historically speaking, is the Community House. Could the structure be updated and used for more activities? What about places to meet for meals? We love to go to Kimmel's and enjoy going there several times a week, but there is no place to sit and chat. (Remember Kimmel's is still located in their same place for the next year and a half…then they will re-locate in town!) What other options could the town enjoy that include seating areas? How about a bakery, deli or soup/salad place? The GAP and new retail stores are an improvement over the department store, but is clothing what our residents really need?
Friendly's, Bertucci's and Starbucks seem to be thriving, but they are successful for more than their food. People just like to get out and see eachother! It's fun to see who you will run into…its called serendipity!
So, where are we now? We are 91 miles Southwest of Boston and 23 miles North of Hartford. We are 133 miles away from New York City and we're a suburb of Springfield. We are on the edge of Connecticut along the Connecticut River. We are lucky to live in the heart of New England!
March 22, 2001
COMMUNICATION TIME " The future, no matter how threatening it may appear, can only come one day at a time"
-Anonymous
People communicate in a wide variety of ways. Some people are shy or quiet, while others are bold and outspoken. Some people prefer writing letters or sending e-mail, while others will only talk on the phone. The old saying, "Actions speak louder than words" is true! On February 25, concerned townspeople are encouraged to attend an open meeting to talk about Longmeadow's future. Please show up and let your opinions be heard."Longmeadow Faces the Future" will be held from 2-5 p.m. at the Blake Student Center of Bay Path College on Sunday, February 25. Please mark your calendars!!! If you are planning to get away from it all during President's week, try to return a little early. This is an important meeting!
We each bring our unique outlook with us when we approach new situations. How do we want to see Longmeadow evolve? Although we are not able to get Boston local news on the television, it is our state capital. It is hard to feel connected when we are living in Western Massachusetts. Many local residents commute to Hartford and other communities south of here, and may actually spend most of their time in Connecticut. What issues face those of us that live on the edge of two states?
Every viewpoint in worthwhile. Young and old, we both value the same things. We moved here because it is a beautiful, safe, historic community with good schools. There are important issues to discuss when we realize that towns close to Boston and New York are getting overcrowded and overbuilt. Open space should be a top priority as well as making sure the students are prepared for life and work in the 21st Century. How can we preserve the past and embrace change at the same time? There is a way…and we need to find it together.
February 22, 2001
2001: EARTH ODYSSEY "A person first starts to live when he can live outside himself, when he can have as much regard for another human being as he does himself. We are here to do good. It is the responsibility of every human being to aspire to do something worthwhile; to make this world a better place than the one we found. Life is a gift, and if we agree to accept it, we must contribute in return. When we fail to contribute, we fail to adequately answer why we are here" ----Albert Einstein
Now we have officially entered the third millenium. The slate has been wiped clean and we have a chance at a fresh start. Since my column last appeared in early November, we experienced one of the most memorable and bizarre election fiascoes in the history of our country. The situation has been resolved and on January 20, we will have a new President. The only good thing I can say about the chads (pregnant and dimpled) is that hopefully the country will have a uniform ballot in the future and a more consistent means of voting from state to state.
I took a brief sabbatical to tend to family and holidays, and now the "Let's Talk" column will appear on a monthly basis. Thanks for your continued interest, enthusiasm and support. Your comments and ideas are wonderful and it is the residents of this small town who inspire the observations and topics covered here at the Longmeadow News.
The future of Longmeadow is unfolding each day. There is a special group developing the Longmeadow Plan, and the Zoning and Planning Boards will continue to provide a vital service as they tend to the
issues of growth and development. Someone once said that short-range planning usually leads to destruction and entropy, while long-range planning usually stimulates innovation and renewal. The Longmeadow Historical Society has celebrated its first 100 years, and will continue to keep the history of this special place alive. The supermarket will be expanding within the next two years and several small businesses will be moving. Suddenly, two weeks ago, Allan Levine closed the doors of Bliss Pharmacy after 20 years. He and his store will be sorely missed and I wish him well. In April the Gap/Gap Kids will be opening in the Longmeadow Shoppes, with Ann Taylor and Chico's not far behind. The renovations are underway now and the façade will be redesigned in a pleasing manner.The Selectmen and Town Accountant say that our financial future may look bleak. There is anxiety about the budget. If we are not careful and fiscally responsible, we will not be able to meet our commitments. The "free cash" account is dwindling and the high school is in desperate need of repairs. Unfortunately, the town could be penny wise and pound-foolish if we do not plan wisely and really look at what our priorities are for the future. No one wants higher taxes. They are high enough! Young families continue to move to Longmeadow from other parts of the country because they have heard of the good reputation of the school system, and that is a top priority for most parents and grandparents living here. Unfortunately, the cost of living has skyrocketed in the last twenty years and the funds have not maintained the schools infrastructure. The teaching continues to be excellent and my children have enjoyed a rewarding elementary school experience so far. We have locked into a higher state reimbursement for the approved renovations, yet we are waiting to get the work started. Let us keep the big picture in mind and help the Selectmen guide us into a bright future!
January 18, 2001
BUTTERFLY MAGIC "Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly" - anonymous
As a child, I was always fascinated with butterflies. They seemed to dance around my mother's garden and live in a carefree world. Their bright colors were mesmerizing and I would follow them around as they flew from flower to flower.
When our daughter turned two she received two copies of the same book! We passed one along to her cousin, and the other became a well-loved bedtime companion. "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle is a story about transformation. Young children are transfixed by this classic tale. In addition to helping kids learn the days of the week, and about eating various foods, it teaches young minds about change. The little egg turns into caterpillar, which turns into a cocoon, which ultimately becomes a beautiful butterfly. It's a bit sad to realize that the caterpillar is gone forever, but the end result is worth it. When Rachel was four I made her elaborate butterfly wings for Halloween just like the ones pictured in the book. When we moved here, we soon learned that Eric Carle lived in Northampton and we got his signature on the book at a booksigning back in 1997.
Now parents can teach their children about real butterflies in our area. The Magic Wings, Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens has just opened in South Deerfield. I definitely recommend a visit! Last weekend I took the kids to this amazing display of butterflies and it was well worth the trip. It is open seven days a week and the conservatory houses several kinds of butterflies flying around in a heated environment. If you sit quietly several butterflies will actually land on you and rest for awhile. If you wear a bright color, they will be more attracted to you!
We can learn much from the lifecycle of butterflies. My education is continuing. Most butterflies live for approximately two weeks, although several species live twice as long. Our lives seem so long in comparison. As we grow and change, some things are lost, but we need to let go of certain patterns to make room for new things in our lives. The Mourning Cloak butterfly, which is from this area, lives about eleven months because it is able to hibernate during the long winter. Sounds like something I would enjoy doing in the winter.
I hope to add some butterfly friendly plants to my garden next spring, so we will be able to attract some of these beautiful friends to our yard. My children will be able to watch them in their own backyard. For more information about Magic Wings call 413-665-2805 or visit the website at www.MagicWings.net.
There is change all around us! Best wishes for a wonderful Thanksgiving and Holiday season for all families in Longmeadow. Good-bye for now!
November 9, 2000
THE PERFECT GIFT Everyone is talking about holiday preparations and shopping for gifts these days! There never is enough time to get it all done, and get everything wrapped and ready for the guests. The number one gift for Longmeadow residents is surely the Longmeadow afghan, which is being sold by the Friends of Storrs Library. This beautiful 100% washable cotton blanket comes in three colors, dusty blue, dark green or black. I got one last June during the Long Meddowe Days Celebration as a gift, and I use it every day when reading.
Who wants to receive this afghan……? In addition to Hanukah and Christmas gifts, it is perfect for birthday gifts, college students, snow birds, newcomers or families leaving town, teacher gifts, retirement gifts and even as a wedding gift. The possibilities are endless, and proceeds from the sale will benefit our local library.
Local resident Dick Curran of R. Curran Designs, Inc. assisted in the layout and design of the afghans, which are manufactured in North Carolina. Colony Hills residents will notice the unique cast-iron lampposts from their neighborhood framing the sides of the design. In the center are seven landmark buildings and the doorway from our town hall that was copied from the "Marchant" Samuel Colton home. The Meeting House, built in 1767 is featured in the middle of the design, with the Old Red House, The Storrs House, The Richard Salter Storrs Library, the Alexander Field House, The Old Junior High (now Center School), and the Community House surrounding the borders.
We live in a very historic and beautiful community and this gift is something special that most residents will want to have. The cost for the 50" x 65" afghan is $45 and can be purchased directly from Debbie Mack at 567-4365. The library has one displayed at the circulation desk, so please take a look!
November 2, 2000
THE BIG WHY "Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone."
- Joni Mitchell, from the song Big Yellow Taxi, 1970As a former New York City resident, I can honestly tell you that bigger is not better. I escaped the life of a Manhattan dweller when the traffic got too big, the noise got too big, the rent got too big and the skyscrapers got too big. The main problem was that the stress was too big and we wanted a simpler life for our children. The pace of our life was too hectic and it became overwhelming.
We welcome the life-style that a community like Longmeadow has to offer. After we arrived here, we got to know many of the shopkeepers. Longmeadow residents are loyal customers of local businesses, and we appreciate the convenience and high level of personal service that many long-time retailers can give us. People like Allan Levine, Maurice Fieldstein, Chippy and Phil Grant are part of the community and part of the unique fabric of this quintessential small town. Small businesses like theirs play a vitally important role in this community. Many Longmeadowans depend on the convenience that these local establishments provide. We look forward to continuing our relationship with them in the years ahead. I hate malls and avoid them as much as possible. Places like Home Depot and Costco give me the creeps! I love to buy groceries at a place like the Longmeadow Community Market, but I also go to the supermarket in town. It is a short drive to East Longmeadow or Enfield if I need some food items that cannot be found here in Longmeadow.
So why does the supermarket in town need to expand? The landlord is not the problem, and it's probably not his idea. There are always two sides to every story and the situation will unfold in the next year and a half. At the end of June 2002, four local businesses will loose their leases and will no longer operate, as we know them. Kimmel's Bagels, Chippy's BarberShop, Brightwood Hardware and Bliss Pharmacy will either move or cease to exist. These businesses have been in existence for 30-40 years, and they are part of the core that makes up the heart of the town. If you don't like this idea, do something about it. The response has already been overwhelming! I cannot tell you how many people have called me about this threat to our local shops. Please call the corporate office of the supermarket in town at 784-0600, and ask why?????? If you do not want them to expand, tell them to call the landlord and say NO! Make sure they are aware of your feelings.
October 26, 2000
SCHOOL EXPANSION On February 5, 1953, Longmeadow held a town meeting to vote on a budget for a high school. Everyone agreed that another building was needed; yet, the issue was with the huge expense. A 2/3 vote was necessary; but it was too close to pass. There were 577 in favor and 553 against, for a $2 million structure.
Residents of Longmeadow in the early to mid 20th century recall town meetings that "often approached a public brawl." "Uncontrolled shouting, little attention to pleas for order from the moderator" and even "free-for-all fist fights" were remembered. Although this specific meeting in early 1953 was not noted for this behavior, the mood must have been tense.
On November 5, 1953, the issue was up again. This time the budget was reduced to $1,575.00. Because of this new recommendation, the vote passed 1444 in favor and 678 opposed. According to an article written by Robert W. Bodfish in 1980, "the aftermath came earlier than one might expect." As Town Moderator from 1933-1966 and Town Counsel for 15 years during the same period, he was an expert on how things worked (or did not work) in our town. He went on to explain that soon after the building was completed, an addition was needed. He states "It makes one wonder whether there was a savings after all."
It appears that people have a tradition of being penny wise and pound-foolish. Maybe it is simply human nature. The longer we wait to start the renovations at Wolf Swamp and Blueberry Hill, the more the costs will escalate. There is a long list at the state level for school additions and renovations. Almost every other municipality has put local money up front to get the work started ASAP. Our town is proud of its fiscal conservatism, yet we would actually be working with cheaper money if we started work now. The construction costs will increase due to inflation, and we may need to pay for portable classrooms. Ask any contractor around town about how full his schedule is and how the cost of his supplies is escalating.
Wolf Swamp is 142 on the list. Blueberry Hill is a bit ahead at number 127. The names move slowly to the top. The whole nation is experiencing a baby boom, not just Longmeadow. At this rate, it will be 4+ years before we break ground. My kids will not see it, but maybe your children or grandchildren will get to experience learning in a newly renovated environment. We will all benefit as Longmeadow continues to attract young families who need to move to the Springfield area in the 21st Century.
October 19, 2000
READ THIS! About a year and a half ago a very scary thing happened in Columbine, Colorado. Everyone was effected by that tragedy. The word "columbine" will never again remind me of the pretty pink Colorado State flower. For parents and teachers everywhere, it was a wake up call, and it sent a chill through our community. School should be a safe place for students. We know that teenagers go through a difficult transition from childhood to adulthood, but the violence was shocking. A very insightful Columbine student who survived the massacre wrote the following message, which I received over the Internet:
"The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings, but shorter tempers; wider freeways, but narrower viewpoints; we spend more, but have less; we buy more, but enjoy it less.
We have bigger houses and smaller families; more convenience, but less time; we have more degrees, but less sense; more knowledge but less judgement; more experts, but more problems; more medicine, but less wellness.
We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.
We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate often.
We've learned how to make a living, but not a life: we've added years to life, not life to years.
We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet the new neighbor.
We've conquered outer space, but not inner space; we've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul; we've split the atom, but not our prejudice.
We have higher incomes, but lower morals; we've become long on quantity, but short on quality.
These are the times of tall men, and short character; steep profits, and shallow relationships.
These are times of world peace, but domestic warfare; more leisure, but less fun; more kinds of food, but less nutrition.
These are days of two incomes, but more divorce; of fancier houses, but broken homes.
It is a time when the media and technology can bring this message to you, and a time when you can choose to pass it on or not."So think about these observations and pass on the message. We all want a better world for our children. Longmeadow is a great community, let's insure that we keep it that way.
October 13, 2000
AWARENESS Look around you! Longmeadow is so beautiful during this time of year! Our idyllic tree-lined neighborhood was shrouded in fog this morning, as rays of sunlight fought to break through the mist. The first few wrinkled brown leaves dotted the front lawn and a chill went through me to the bone. I wrapped the kids in an extra layer of warmth, and turned the heat on. The squirrels scurried around searching for their winter sustenance of acorns, and the birds flew overhead towards Connecticut.
It is important to be aware. We need to be aware of ourselves and aware of the world around us. We can miss so much. This time of year always reminds me of new beginnings. It is back to school season and time to start over. Sometimes this feels like New Years time even more than January. For some people this is the beginning of a New Year and it is time to reevaluate, set some resolutions and move ahead. The following excerpt from a prayer book captures the mood of awareness.
"Awake, you sleepers, from your sleep! Rouse yourselves, you slumberers, out of your slumber! Examine your deeds, and turn to God. Remember your creator, you who are caught up in the daily round, losing sight of eternal truth; you who are wasting your years in vain pursuits that neither profit or save. Look closely at yourselves; improve your ways and deeds."
When you wake up tomorrow, think about improving your awareness. Life is short so there is no point in sleepwalking. Look into the eyes of everyone you meet and make a connection. Think about what you want to accomplish in the upcoming year and then do it. Make lists, set goals and plan ahead. Take a walk, read a book and make a new friend.
October 5, 2000
CHOICES I received a very thought-provoking message over the Internet about making choices. Some choices are easy and obvious while others are impossibly hard and heart wrenching. How we make those everyday choices is another matter. I learned that we each make over 20,000 choices every day, and most of them are unconscious.
For instance: should I take out the garbage now or call my brother first? Should I fold the laundry or walk the dog? Do I need to get a new car? What should we have for dinner? Most choices seem very inconsequential. Some choices made early in life will change our lives forever. When we pick out a college, we are choosing a path that will effect our entire lives. It dictates what part of the country we will live in, what professors we will meet and who we will spend time with. We need to trust our instincts and do what feels right.
The topic of making choices reminds me of the Robert Frost poem, "Two Paths Diverged in a Yellow Wood." We can pick how we want to react. Are we a victim or a survivor? We have choices each day. Will I be in a good mood with something positive to say or will I be a pessimist and negative? We can pick our moods, although we are pre-disposed to certain behaviors from childhood.
In a time of crisis, we can choose to live or choose to die. We can choose to hide or choose to be open. Attitude is everything. Now, let me quote that e-mail: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. After all today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday" So remember this lesson and choose to be in a good mood and always have something positive to say. People will be nicer to you if you smile, act helpful and be pleasant. Act towards others the way you would want them to act towards you. As we grow in wisdom and maturity, and begin to live more consciously, we choose how we want to respond to situations presented to us.
September 28, 2000
CLEAN OUT THE ATTIC! Instead of a spring cleaning, this is the time for fall cleaning! The Longmeadow Historical Society is planning its first annual appraisal fundraiser. On Wednesday, October 25, the Community House has been reserved and local residents can bring their treasures for a verbal appraisal. Remember to save the date! From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., representatives from Douglas Galleries of South Deerfield will inspect your antiques and collectibles. They will discuss the age, history, origin and value of up to three items for the admission fee of $10. All proceeds from the Appraisal Night will help to cover the expenses of running the Storrs House, the historic house in Longmeadow.
In the spirit of "The Antiques Road Show", this will be an entertaining and educational experience. Remind your school children to bring in their goodies as well. Coin collectors, baseball card collectors and stamp collectors that start young often graduate to be connoisseurs of fine quality collections in their later years. Browse through your attic and discover all those boxes inherited from your dear Aunt Esther. Most of us end up with some of our ancestor's treasures, so let's find out what we have!
Do you know the difference between Belleek and Lalique? Are you in possession of some Limoges or Tiffany? Are you the proud owner of a Heriz rug or an Aubusson carpet? Do you own a mysterious object that no one in your home can identify? Now is the time to have your questions answered! Dig into the back of those closets and clean out what you can. You may find a valuable heirloom or possibly a fake or forgery!
You have about a month to prepare! The fundraiser will be a fun and interesting way to learn about your family antiques and object d'art. So, make a note on your calendars that Wednesday, October 25 is the date to have your treasures appraised. Thank you in advance for your participation!
September 21, 2000
NEWS GATHERING How do the citizens of Longmeadow find out what's going on? Where do we get the news? Since I was forced to stop watching the TV News because of OJ's gloves, Monica's dress and Columbine's tears, I now must read the news. There is too much inappropriate material on the TV, so no one in our family can watch the news! In the old days it was a bit depressing with the lists of dead, MIA's and POW's night after night in the late 60's and early 70's, but today it's just plain violent and X-rated. The sad circumstances of Diana and John Jr. felt like a Twilight Zone/Soap Opera with the endless coverage both stories received. I would rather read what I can and skip over the rest.
I am not suggesting that we all bury our heads in the sand. Limiting the amount we read is a way of advocating stress reduction. It is called survival in the information age. I would rather read books to my children than ponder about the upcoming dysfunctional election and the local flasher. We discuss current events, but managed to avoid certain topics that little ears did not need to hear. Don't get me wrong, the kids watch TV every day, but "Animal Planet" and "The Brady Bunch" re-runs are tolerable in limited quantities. There are several vulgar cartoons on these days that need to be avoided. We encourage reading and my daughter has discovered my old Nancy Drew books!
Major news stories are discovered by word of mouth or from the radio when my kids are at school. The best thing I have is my own personal clipping service. My parents clip out articles of special interest and send them to me in the mail. At least twice a month John, our local mail carrier, delivers an envelope full of news articles. Most of the news is from the week day copies of the NY Times, which I don't have time to read.
It is hard to know what paper to buy as a resident of Longmeadow. I suppose that we should buy the Springfield Union News or the Hartford Courrant, but we rarely do. The Boston Globe is of interest, but unfortunately, I do not feel that close to our state capital living in Western Massachusetts. The writers of the Globe don't know we exist. You mean there is life Westa Woosta? We compromise and keep it simple. I go for the big picture and the microscope. We buy the Sunday issue of the NY Times to follow all the international news stories. I also subscribe to Newsweek to see the photos and glance at the stories. Most importantly, I get the Longmeadow News delivered each week! These three publications, along with the Blueberry Hill School Blotter give me enough information to stay informed. Maybe you read the news on the web. The news is so bad these days that I really don't miss knowing half of it. Maybe things will improve in the next millenium. I certainly hope so.
September 14, 2000
THE STORRS FAMILY LEGACY When you drive into the town of Longmeadow the signs read "Settled in 1644." We pass these two signs, one on the south end bordering Enfield and one on the north side bordering Springfield, several times each day. We live in a very historic part of New England, but because each of us is focusing on the day to day activities of our lives, we forget to find out the stories from past centuries.
Most of us have visited the Storrs Library. Parents of young children find it a great place for story hours, homework assignments and the usual books and videos. Residents' young and old enjoy the vast volumes and excellent library staff who are a wealth of information. The place has a great atmosphere and a welcoming environment. We are lucky to have such a high-quality library. I spend a lot of time there. There is a room full of historical information located on the second floor. Please check at the reference desk to obtain permission to do research.
The history of the Storrs Family and their important legacy to our town is an interesting one. Next to the library is the historic house that belonged to the Storrs Family and is now run by the Longmeadow Historical Society. Every resident should visit the Storrs House sometime. It is open from 9-12:00 on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Mabel Swanson, the Curator will give you a special tour. Admission is $3.00.
Long ago, the early families of Longmeadow farmed the land along the Connecticut River and tried to live a peaceful life in the wilderness in the days when the American Indians called this area home. The original minister of Longmeadow was Stephen Williams. He was ordained in 1716, and lived to be 90 years old. His detailed diaries are an amazing record of the life in Longmeadow during the 1700's. After he died in 1782, the town needed a replacement, as the church was the center of life during this period. Richard Salter Storrs became Longmeadow's second pastor in 1785. He was born in Mansfield, Connecticut in 1763, and the son of Reverend John and Eunice Storrs. A graduate of Yale University, he married Sarah Williston of West Haven, Connecticut. Reverend Storrs was the nephew of Stephen Williams and his second wife; Sarah Williams was the granddaughter of the first pastor. Their son Eleazer Storrs married Lucy Colton and their children; Richard Salter Storrs 2nd, and Sarah Williams Storrs left the Storrs House to the Richard Salter Storrs Library Association in 1907.
The Storrs House was moved southward to make room for the new library, which opened in 1932. In 1992, a large addition was built in the rear section to accommodate the Discovery Room, for children, named in the memory of Philip Michael Lauro II. We should be proud of both our library and historic house and the part they play in the history of the town. Don't forget to visit both during the upcoming year.
Visit the Longmeadow Historical Society's webpage for more information on the history of our town.
September 17, 2000
WELCOME BACK Well, it is time to start school again! For all of those folks who left Longmeadow for the summer this is what you missed….RAIN, RAIN and more RAIN! We actually stayed here for the entire months of July and August, and only escaped for a few day trips when the sun came out. After we got to mid-August and I had never been able to take my first tennis lesson in 25 years due to rain, I started to talk about building an ark. My garden and lawn are very happy but the kids went a little crazy! Last summer was so dry, I guess we made up for it in the summer of 2000. Did anyone turn on a sprinkler?
Longmeadow is very beautiful in the summer. The breezes off the river remind me of the Cape, everything slows down, and it is very quiet! The only big excitement this year was the playscape located in a yard on Laurel Street near Ellington. The Town Hall received over 100 telephone calls complaining about the placement of the swingset on such a main thoroughfare. The bright yellow slide was a distraction to motorists. It seems that the zoning regulations were violated, and the structure has been removed. The owners of the corner lot said they received permission from the town. We live in a town with relatively small lots and little privacy. My feeling was that of many parents, concern for the safety of the children using the playscape. If there was a fence erected first perhaps the story would have turned out differently.
Longmeadow is a densely populated town with little open space left. There is hardly a single lot left in town to build on since the development on Pendleton Street started last year. Zoning and Planning Boards will play an important role in the next year as issues come up. The future of this town in the 21st Century will be the result of changes and plans made now. The historic nature and natural beauty of this place is priceless and we should make every effort to be prepared for what lies ahead. The old Cherry & Webb commercial space in the Longmeadow Shoppes shopping center is still empty. Plans to divide the space into three sections will allow three new businesses to open in the future. No leases have been signed as of this time but it was recently announced that The Gap/Gap Kids will open in part of the space next year. It should be an interesting fall…I wonder what lies ahead for Longmeadow. I also wonder what will happen in the Presidential Election! It will be interesting!
