CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA DECEMBER 5TH

On Saturday, December 5 at 7 p.m., the Sandisfield Arts Center will host its annual Christmas show. Now in its seventh year, the event features a wide range of performers, from toddlers in tutus dancing to the Nutcracker Suite to venerable authors and actors lending their skills to present original material or classics with class.

This year, Dawn Lane & Co. will perform “Kings Reign: Queens Rule,” a music visualization of Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus" in which dancers perform original sign language for each lyric of this choral work. Choreographer, Dawn Lane, is joined by dancers Lorimer Burns and Jane Goodrich in this humorous piece that includes audience participation.

Elizabeth Petty, music teacher at Farmington River Elementary School in Otis, will conduct a small choir of her students and also accompany the audience in Christmas caroling. Other performers include singer/songwriter, Jeffrey Folmer, who doubles as Executive Director of Ventfort Hall, and author, Val Colman, reading an original short story called, “Christmas in Louisiana.”

Tickets for this popular event are $5 for adults. Children are admitted free. The Sandisfield Arts Center is located on Hammertown Road off Route 57 in Sandisfield. For directions and more information, visit www.sandisfieldartscenter.org or call (413) 258-4100.

October Line up at Sandisfield Arts Center

Movies, music and art are scheduled throughout the month of October at the Sandisfield Arts Center. The historic building was once a Baptist Meeting House and orthodox synagogue, and is now home to year-round cultural and educational programming.

The Friday night film series is in full swing starting on October 2nd with Truffaut’s “Stolen Kisses.” Other films include “The Widow of St. Pierre” on October 9, “The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp” on October 16, “Bed and Board” on October 23rd, and “Focus” on October 30th. Each film starts at 7:30 p.m. and is hosted by a local film enthusiast including author, Simon Winchester, filmmaker, Diego Ongaro, and naturalist, Bonner McAllester.

On Saturday, October 3rd, the work of artist, Erica Crofut will be on display with a reception from 4pm-6pm. The art will remain in the gallery through November 1st.

Guitarist, Joel Brown, returns to the Sandisfield Arts Center on October 17th, this time with his father, Frank Brown, on clarinet. Father and son will present an evening of jazz, classical and beyond.

For more information and directions, visit www.sandisfieldartscenter.org or call (413) 258-4100.

Tina Sotis Issues 2010 Calendar

Sandisfield artist, Tina Sotis, has released a 2010 calendar featuring 12 of her paintings. The calendar measures 11x 17 when fully opened, and sports a satin cord that keeps the pages together and provides a hanging mechanism.

Tina Sotis paintings emphasize light, shadow, space and the mystery of how alone and yet how related we all are. Her work is in collections nationwide. The images selected were chosen from over 200 works created throughout Sotis’ career and represent some of her favorite paintings. “I like the idea of sharing a collection of my work in a format that everyone can afford,” said Sotis.

Calendars are $18 each†(3 or more $15 each). The calendar in its entirety is available for viewing online at www.tinasotis.com. To order, call (413) 258-8166.

SANDISFIELD CULTURAL COUNCIL SEEKS PROPOSALS

SANDISFIELD, MA -- The Sandisfield Cultural Council has set an October 15 postmark deadline for organizations, schools and individuals to apply for grants that support cultural activities in the community. These grants can support a variety of artistic projects and activities in Sandisfield and surrounding towns including exhibits, festivals, short-term artist residencies or performances in schools, workshops and lectures.

The Sandisfield Cultural Council will also entertain funding proposals from schools and youth groups through the PASS Program, which provides subsidies for school-age children to attend cultural field trips.

The Sandisfield Cultural Council is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural Councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest grassroots cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to each community.

This year, the Sandisfield Cultural Council will distribute about $4,000 in grants. Previously funded projects include: Berkshire Theatre Festival and Shakespeare & Co. residencies in the schools, class trips for Farmington River Regional School children, concerts for Seniors, and support for Sandisfield Arts Center programs. The Sandisfield Cultural Council is currently seeking new members.

For specific guidelines and additional information, contact Liana Toscanini at (413) 258-4904 or liana@communityaccesstothearts.org. Application forms and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available online at www.mass-culture.org/lcc_public.asp. Application forms are also available at Town Hall, the library and the post office.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS AT SANDISFIELD ARTS CENTER

Sandisfield, MA – On Friday evening, September 4th, The Sandisfield Arts Center launches a 12-week film series featuring local hosts, commentary, and refreshments. Screenings take place on Friday evenings at 7:30 P.M. Tickets are $5.

Author and film enthusiast, Simon Winchester, opens the series on September 4th with “I Know Where I’m Going,” a 1945 romance by the British-based filmmakers Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. Winchester will introduce the film and lead a discussion afterwards. On September 25th, he will host “The Red Shoes.”

On September 11, French filmmaker and Sandisfield resident, Diego Ongaro, will host the 1959 Truffaut film, “400 Blows.” Bonner McAllester of Monterey will host “Salt of the Earth” on September 18 based on a 1951 zinc miner's strike that took place in Silver City, New Mexico.

Singer/Songwriter, Kenn Morr (named “Best New Band” by the Hartford Advocate), performs on September 12th at 8PM. Tickets are $15. Earlier that evening, two Sandisfield photographers host an opening from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Richard Migot features photographs of the Berkshires and Flora Parisky presents photographs of her travels in Europe and the United States.

On Saturday, September 19, Karl Saliter’s Circus Comedy takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. with fun for the whole family. The show features unicycles, juggling, audience participation and continuous laughter. Tickets for adults are $10, $5 for children.

These programs are made possible by grants from the Sandisfield and Otis Cultural Councils, local agencies supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. The Sandisfield Arts Center is located on Hammertown Road off Route 57 in Sandisfield. For directions, reservations and more information about the historic building and upcoming programs, visit www.sandisfieldartscenter.org or call 258-4100.

Variety Show at Sandisfield Arts Center July 25

On Saturday, July 25th at 8 P.M., award-winning humorist, John Meeks will host an evening of different performing genres by talented Berkshire artists. The variety show takes place at the Sandisfield Arts Center on Hammertown Road off Route 57 in Sandisfield. Tickets are $12.

Song, poetry, story, prose, humor, movement, and the unexpected are to be expected. The evening is presented with the informality of an open-mike night and includes singer/songwriter, JoAnne Spies, slam poet, Dylan Lundgren, performance artist, Roz Peis, and storyteller, Darlene White. Vocalist, Francine Ciccarelli, and guitarist, Peter K, round out the performance along with the warmth and humor of John Meeks.

This program is funded in part by grants from the Sandisfield and Otis Cultural Councils, local agencies funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Historical Society Fair

The Sandisfield Historical Society Fair was held on July 11, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the meeting house. State Representative, Smitty Pignatelli, and State Senator, Ben Downing, attended the ceremony and presented the Historical Society with a plaque commemorating the event. Good weather was welcomed by all!

July Events at Sandisfield Arts Center

July finds the Sandisfield Arts Center in full swing. The historic building, saved and renovated by a dedicated group of residents, is once again the site of many community events.

On Sunday, July 5th, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monterey artist, Joe Baker, will exhibit landscape paintings and pastels. A student of the natural world, Baker is also a musician, violin-maker, and computer programmer. The exhibit runs through July 28.

On Saturdays, July 11 and 18, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon, an American History and Culture Forum Series will focus on free speech, expression and thought, and the challenges to those freedoms in the American historical experience. Bill Cohn and Val Coleman, both Sandisfield residents, will undertake an historical, legal and cultural assessment of our free speech provisions as outlined in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Audience participation is encouraged. Admission is $5.

Two popular Berkshire Groups join forces on Saturday, July 11 at 8 p.m. for a joyous evening of folk and fiddle (and djembe, mandolin, guitar, banjo, bouzouki, penny whistle, and viola). Admission for Bottom of the Bucket and Common Thread is $15.

Lauren Paul offers a 6-week stretch class designed to tone and relax the whole body, mind and spirit. Paul is a licensed acupuncturist and certified shiatsu therapist with a background in dance. All experience levels are welcome. Classes meet Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. from July 7 to August 16. For information about prices and to register, call (413) 258-4296.

The Sandisfield Arts Center is located on Hammertown Road off Route 57 in Sandisfield. Once a Baptist Meeting House and orthodox synagogue, the 1839 building in now used as a community arts center offering affordable cultural and educational programs, funded in part by grants from the Sandisfield and Otis Cultural Councils. Reservations may be made by calling 258-4100. More information and directions at www.sandisfieldartscenter.org.

Honeydrop

Honeydrop, voted the best new organic health drink at the national health food show in Boston, was developed by David Luks, son of Karen and Allan Luks of Sandisfield. It is now in Guido's (and Whole Foods stores nationally). It's in four flavors, the only organic drink sweetened just by honey, and has only 40 calories a serving. It has a wonderfully light taste, just a touch of sweetness. Try some soon!

Patrick Barrett Wins Seat on Select Board

The Berkshire Eagle reported that at an unusually well-attended election, Patrick Barrett defeated Martin Cormier 187-108. VIctor Hryckvich received ten write-in votes. 307 of Sandisfield's 563 voters, or 54.5 percent, participated in the election. Non contested races returned incumbents Barbara Cormier to Moderator, Matthew Sermini to Assessor and Clare English to Library Trustee. Those running unopposed included Hannah Barrett for School Committee, Kathleen Faricelli-Segrini for Board of Health, John Burrows for Auditor, and Gary Bottoms Sr. for Planning Board. Congratulations everyone.

Where the h___ is Sandisfield?

Thanks to Val Coleman, travelers along Route 57 past Gedney Farm will finally know which way to go to get to Sandisfield. Val toiled to get several directional signs up for the Sandisfield Arts Center but the fact is, these signs are great for ALL Sandisfield businesses. Bravo Val! Photo: Jerry Herman

JUNE EVENTS AT SANDISFIELD ARTS CENTER

The Sandisfield Arts Center presents a variety of programs during the month of June. Once a Baptist meeting house, then an orthodox synagogue, the historic building is now used year-round as a community arts center with a focus on affordable and educational programming.

Lew Scheffey of Monterey will exhibit in the Sandisfield Arts Center gallery from June 6-28. His works are principally landscapes, en plein air, painted around the world during his long, productive life. Many of his paintings were inspired by the Berkshires and the Shawangunk Mountains in New York State. The opening reception is Saturday, June 6th from 4pm-6pm. Admission is free.

On Saturday, June 13, Betsy Polatin teaches the Alexander Technique, a unique and gentle hands-on approach to body movement. Trained in Yoga, meditation and the healing arts, Betsy has taught in India, Japan, Korea, and the U.S. The cost of the workshop is $15. Call (413) 258-2820 to sign up.

The Castle Hill Theatre Company returns to Sandisfield on Saturday, June 20, presenting a highly imaginative production of Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories. Full of color, humor, and fanciful explanations of why the world is the way it is, this is the perfect family outing. The evening starts at 6 P.M. with an ice-cream social, followed by the performance at 7 P.M. Admission is $10 per person, with children under 14 admitted free. Ice cream cones are $3.

Programming at the Sandisfield Arts Center is sponsored in part by grants from the Sandisfield and Otis Cultural Councils, local agencies funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council. The Sandisfield Arts Center is located on Hammertown Road and Route 57 in Sandisfield. For more information and directions, visit www.sandisfieldartscenter.org or call (413) 258-4100.

May 30 Concert to benefit Fire Dept & Arts Center

On Saturday, May 30th at Sandisfield Fire Station No. 2 on Route 57 in Sandisfield, the Mountain Laurel Band will present an evening of music, square and contra dancing. Bring a picnic or purchase hotdogs and hamburgers offered by the Fire Department starting at 6pm. The concert begins at 7pm. Adult admission is $10, $5 for children with all proceeds going to the Sandisfield Fire Department and Sandisfield Arts Center.

The Mountain Laurel Band features Joe Baker on guitar, Bonner McAllester on hammered dulcimer, and Don MacLean on fiddle. They have been performing New England Contra and square dance music since 1978. All are welcome.

More about the musicians...

Don MacLean (fiddle) lives in Ancram, NY, where he is an organic grower of fruits and vegetables (see Don's website at thompsonfinch.com), father of two talented daughters, long-term member of the Town Planning Board, Board member of the Columbia Land Conservancy, writer and activist. He likes to spend a lot of time outdoors and makes his own biodiesel fuel.

Bonner McAllester (hammered dulcimer) (also harmonica, whistle, spoons, rattles, mouthparts) lives in Monterey, MA, where she is a naturalist, writer, mother of two talented daughters, teacher and dedicated gardener. Bonner has a major commitment to activism for peace and social justice, and participates in Quaker organizations at local and regional levels. A lifelong singer, she supplements her folksinging with participation in the Berkshire Bach Society chorus. She also likes to spend a lot of time outdoors.

Joe Baker (guitar), who was for almost 20 years the caller for the band in addition to playing guitar, also lives in Monterey, MA. He was a gamba- and violin-maker for many years but now works as a software and website developer (see bakerworks.com). Joe is the father of two talented daughters, a community organizer, landscape painter (see some work: bakerworks.com/art), birder and farmer. He also likes to spend a lot of time outdoors and cuts and splits mountains of firewood every year.

The question is: how many daughters are there?

Marty Cormier for Selectman

April 13, 2009
Greetings All;
To those of you I have yet to meet, my name is Marty Cormier. My family moved to Sandisfield in 1971 when I was one year old. While I may not be able to lay claim to being born in Sandisfield, I am proud to have been raised in our town. I was educated in our grade school before attending Searles Middle School and then graduating Monument Mountain Regional High School.
My professional life has consisted of working for my family’s businesses, Tuckers restaurant and Ray Cormier & Sons Concrete. I’ve since owned both businesses and operated them with great success; success not by chance but through hard work, determination and many difficult yet appropriate decisions. I currently own and operate Martin Cormier Concrete and have since sold Tuckers restaurant.
My wife Lisa and I built our home on Norfolk Rd in 1997 with the help of our family, friends and neighbors. Coupled with the same hard work and determination we practice in our businesses, we live in that home today with our three boys and do not have plans of ever leaving.
The reason for this letter is to inform you of my intentions to run for the seat of selectperson. At our most recent caucus I was nominated for this position. This news came at quite a shock to me but what I found more startling was the fact that there was only one other candidate for the position with no one to run against; hardly an election in my eyes yet an appointment. After my nomination I have been receiving numerous phone calls of support, town’s people asking me to accept this nomination. After a great deal of discussion with my family and friends I have decided to accept my nomination with no reservations what so ever. I plan on approaching this position with the same tenacity I use in my business and personal life. I will be very accessible to all of you and will work as hard as possible to promote your voices. I have no agenda to bring to this seat, only a great respect for this town and the people who live here. I will not be side tracked or swayed by others, their egos or agendas. I will work for us, until the task at hand is complete; but more than anything, I want you to have a choice.
Thank you,
Marty Cormier
Home 413-258-8104
Cell 860-485-3255

Patrick Barrett Running for Board of Selectmen

Dear Neighbors,

My name is Patrick Barrett, and I am pleased to announce my candidacy for the Sandisfield Board of Selectmen. I am a native of Berkshire County, and my family and I have enjoyed living in Sandisfield since 2003. I have an avid interest in the welfare of the Town and have been meeting my fellow townspeople, and learning of a desire to see a more democratic and accessible Town government for the residents of Sandisfield. As Selectman, I hope to effect change through my belief that town government should be accessible to all and facilitated by leaders who will listen and work proactively for the Sandisfield community.



I earned a B.S. from Plymouth State College and an M.S. from California University at Pennsylvania, both in Social Science. I currently teach social studies at Mt. Everett Regional High School where I have been employed for nine years, the last four of which I have served as the vice president of the teachers' union. In this political role, I am responsible for listening to and researching grievances and communicating them to management, which I believe is great experience for anyone wanting to serve in Town government. I have also served for two years on the FRRSD School Committee and am a member of the Sandisfield Fire Department.

Please contact me should you have questions regarding my campaign; I am available in the evenings via telephone or by e-mail at your convenience.

I look forward to meeting you!

Sincerely,

Patrick W. Barrett
413.258.4707
patrickbarrett09@gmail.com

P.S. If you would like to make a donation to the campaign to help us cover printing and postage costs, we would be most grateful. Make your check out to:

Patrick Barrett for Sandisfield
26 Rood Hill Road
Sandisfield, MA 01255

Jewelry Design Workshop May 2

Attendance is Free!!!

Saturday May 2, 2009
Otis Town Hall 10am-12:30pm

An introduction to bead stringing and jewelry design workshop:
Join Paula Kohler, a glass bead maker and beaded jewelry designer in an introductory workshop to wearable art! Participants will be guided in designing and stringing their own beaded necklace, bracelet, or anklet to keep and take home. All materials will be provided. This is a fun project where individuals can string their own beautiful beaded jewelry. Handmade glass focal beads and pendants will also be available for sale. Participants may also bring a favorite pendant or beads to incorporate into their art piece.

"This program is supported in part by a grant from the Otis Cultural Council, a Local Agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency"


Reservations required please, limited materials and space will be available.
Children 10 and older welcome when accompanied by an adult. Town
Residents of Sandisfield or Otis receive priority for space availability.
Call Paula to reserve your space 413 429-6617

Otis Cultural Council Events

Residents from Sandisfield are encouraged to attend events in nearby Otis. Here is a sampling of upcoming events sponsored by the Otis Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Sat., May 2 – 10 am
Jewelry Workshop – P. Kohler
Town Hall. Call 429-6627 to register

Saturday, June 6, 9 am – 3 pm
TAG SALE, Otis Ridge parking
Applications at Town Hall or
www.townofotisma.com/culturalcouncil

Saturday, June 13 – 1 pm
Swing Band @ Otis Flag Day

Saturday, July 25 – 9 am – 3 pm
OTIS ARTS FESTIVAL, FRES
Moonshine Holler – 11 am (in)
J. Porcino, Stories – 11 am (out)

Victory will be yours- If we plant it!

Snow Farm Greenhouse & Nursery Horticultural Services

Tempted by a victory garden, but running short on thyme?
Take a big step towards sustainability this season by letting our professional team of horticulturists design and install a vegetable garden for you.
Give us your backyard, we’ll give you a garden!

Call today. Eat better tomorrow.

Snow Farm
Greenhouse & Nursery
413.255.4929
3/4 mile off of Route 57 South Beech Plain Road, Sandisfield, MA

Snow Farm Opens April 24th!

Invest in something safe this year. Your soil!

Snow Farm nursery and greenhouse has everything you need to tackle your gardening To-Do list.
Short on thyme? We’ll come to you!
Our professional horticulturists will design, install and maintain your garden, regardless of its size.

22 years of experience, solid references, an energetic staff & the best compost in the Berkshires means success every season. Let’s get you growing!

Snow Farm
Greenhouse & Nursery
413.255.4929
3/4 off of Route 57 South Beech Plain Road, Sandisfield, MA mile

Patrick W. Barrett for Selectman

My vision for the town of Sandisfield is to address the following areas:

ACCESSIBILITY:
• Listen to the concerns of Sandisfield residents and engage in dialogue regarding solutions.
• Create a welcoming environment at Selectmen’s meetings.
• Encourage residents to play an active role in town government.
• Establish regular all boards meetings to promote town agencies working together.

TOWN WEBSITE:
• Access permits and applications on-line.
• Provide a link to public record documents (ie: minutes from all town board meetings).
• Inform residents of community events.
• Advertise local businesses/generate tax revenue in order to ease the financial burden on property owners.

CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION:
• Build partnership between Sandisfield and our congressional delegation (State Rep. Smitty Pignatelli, State Senator Benjamin Downing, and Representative John Olver).
• Enlist support of State and Federal officials to promote projects that will benefit Sandisfield.

TOWN OPEN HOUSE:
• Introduce candidates for town office to the community.
• Encourage membership in our depleted civic groups.
• Promote cultural activities in Sandisfield.
• Present Town Meeting warrants in order to address the impact these proposals will have on taxes.

LONG TERM PLANNING:
• Establish long term zoning, conservation, and financial plans to protect the future of Sandisfield.
• Increase opportunities for securing both state and federal grants.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY:
• Ensure that taxes remain affordable for both our seniors and young families.
• Actively seek grants in order to replace expensive equipment and make-up for the shortfall in state aide.
• Find creative ways to raise revenue.
• Maintain quality of life for those who are proud to call Sandisfield home.


MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD!

Saturday, May 16th: Annual Town Meeting, 10am, Town Hall
Monday, May 18th: Election Day, 10am-8pm, Town Hall

New Boston Inn Event Schedule

Events Happening at New Boston Inn
101 North Main st.
Sandisfield corner of Route 8 and Route 57
413-258-4477
www.newbostoninn.com
Barbara Colorio, innkeeper
Hours:
Thursday 12-8pm Friday Saturday Sunday 12-10
Monday starting June 15 12-8pm

May 10th Mother's Day Special Call early for Reservations
May25 Memorial Day Bluegrass Band Featuring Seaside Alley
June 21 st Father's Day Texas BBQ Rain or Shine
July 4th Lobster / Steamer Bake
July 11th Steamers
July 17th Night Club Act: Comedy and Sing along:BoB Lambert from Nova Scocia
July 18th Rick Whelden Band Texas BBQ
July 25 PIG ROAST Rain or Shine
August 8 Lobster Bake Band Wagon Classic Rock Band
August 15th PIG ROAST Jazz Quintet
August 22 Texas BBQ

Become a member of the Sandisfield Cultural Council

The Sandisfield Cultural Council needs new members! Help decide how to distribute state funds to support programs in the arts and humanities. Only two meetings annually but an important way to serve your community. Call Liana at (413) 258-4904 for more information.

A Family Cabaret April 18

Friends one and all...

Join us for a fun-filled evening of superb local talent...
Family Cabaret Night!!
April 18th, 7-9 pm, The Sandisfield Arts Center
Hammertown Rd off Route 57 in Sandisfield

For directions: sandisfieldartscenter.org


A wild and wooly evening of local artists young and old and everything in-between!
Clowning, Blues, Magic, Ballet, Comedic Monologue, Latin Rhythms, Tango, Accordion and Hip Hop!
Don’t miss it!

$10 - adults; $5 - kids (under 13 yrs old)
*Proceeds from this event will help purchase a new sound system for the Arts Center!

Offices up for Election this Year

OFFICE/TERM/CURRENTLY HELD BY

Moderator, 1 year, Barbara Cormier
Selectmen, 3 years, Victor Hryckvich
Auditor, 1 year, vacant
Board of Assessors, 3 years, Matt Sermini
School Committee, 2 years, vacant
School Committee, 3 years, Patrick Barrett
Board of Health, 3 years, Kim Spring
Planning Board, 5 years, Nina Hryckvich
Library Trustee, 5 years, Clare Englis

Town of Sandisfield Calendar of Events

March 26, 2009 Last day to obtain nomination papers
March 20, 2009 Last day to submit nomination papers
April 9, 2009 Town Caucus, Town Hall 7pm
April 14, 2009 Last day to object or withdraw nomination papers
April 27, 2009 LAST DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE FOR THE ANNUAL TOWN MTG AND THE ANNUAL TOWN ELECTION. This will be held at the Town Hall Annex from 2-4pm and 7-8pm.
MAY 16, 2009 Annual Town Meeting, Town Hall 10am
May 18, 2009 Annual Town Election, Town Hall 10am-8pm

New! Sandisfield Event Listings

Thanks to a grant from the Sandisfield Cultural Council, Sandisfield will have its own blog for event listings, news, articles, photos and more.   Now that DSL has made its way to our town, there are more web users than ever before.  For those not online, there will be a printed event listing available at the post office.  To contribute an event listing, article or photo, just send an email to liana@communityaccesstothearts.org.