Downtown Walpole

[Magnolia]

Anyone know what Dick and Jane's is and CB's. Both coming to Walpole Center where Printworks was located. Also, what type of store is being built where the old gas station was?

[Unregistered]

You get a WalpoleWords forum-kudo response if you know the answer to this question.

Also, do you know the relationship with a number beloved 'named' place in Walpole?

I read that TT's is changing hands (good luck to the new owner) and the story said that the name may change. That is sad to me as 'lifer' in this prizzin :) TT's was an excellent place in the 1960's.. truly a family place.. I hope the new owner restores it to its warmth from those years.

[Unregistered]

The answer is in my memory someplace. Was it not TeeTee's And is the other place Mimi's - I believe named after another family member?
There is a family member, very active, very sharp, different last name because she married,
who knows all the history. Fascinating person.

[Unregistered]

Mimi's and TT's are indeed linked ...

[Unregistered]

Mimi's was in the Bendinelli family (originally called Bendy's) and T-tee's was originally called "White's". Don't believe they were related back in the day. In fact, T-tee's was not so much a "family" restaurant was it was a "bar".

[Unregistered]

Bendinelli family ran a similar store in Sharon for sure, I'm not sure about them at Mimi's though.. I think they did for a short period... Fuzzy memory...

Keep trying.. as to the connection between TTs and Mimis and where those names originate..

BTW: TT's had 2 sides: The 'bar' (R) and the 'restaurant' (L). They were separated... It indeed was family oriented on the restaurant side.. I haven't been inside for quite some time...

That 'family person' hopefully knows the answer!

[Unregistered]

the man who owned t-tee's was married to the woman, Isabelle, who owned the hairdresser across the street -Fashion Beauty Salon for a short time. His name was T-tee Silvi, I think, and he was killed in a car accident at the intersection of Common and Washington Street. There may have been a "silvi" who owned Mimi's at one time, but not sure.

[Unregistered]

The question is why was TT called "TT"? :)

TT Silvi was indeed killed in a very tragic accident at the intersection of Washington Street and Common Street, before there were traffic lights (or a Cumberland Farms) there. It was a huge tragedy for this town as a local dentist was also in that crash (in the same car).

TT was Mimi's brother... Both nice gentlemen. All those Silvis are/were. "10"s!

Mimi's name was Emilio ("mimi' for short...) Everyone called him Mimi Silvi! A sweet, nice guy.. I once asked the current owner if he new Mimi... he had no idea.. Kind of sad..

Italians have cool nicknames... An Italian guy named Joseph is "Peppy" in Italian (Guiseppe).


TT's real first name was?

[Unregistered]

The question is why was TT called "TT"? :)

TT Silvi was indeed killed in a very tragic accident at the intersection of Washington Street and Common Street, before there were traffic lights (or a Cumberland Farms) there. It was a huge tragedy for this town as a local dentist was also in that crash (in the same car).

TT was Mimi's brother... Both nice gentlemen. All those Silvis are/were. "10"s!

Mimi's name was Emilio ("mimi' for short...) Everyone called him Mimi Silvi! A sweet, nice guy.. I once asked the current owner if he new Mimi... he had no idea.. Kind of sad..

Italians have cool nicknames... An Italian guy named Joseph is "Peppy" in Italian (Guiseppe).


TT's real first name was?

I don't know the answer to this one but I like hearing the old Walpole history. Anyone else have a "do you remember?"

[Unregistered]

think his name was Attilio or something like that.

[Unregistered]

A TT illio... "Now you know the rest of the story" :) I often wonder how many people think the place is called "TEETS" !

If the answerer is not at least part Italian-American, you have been inducted into the Italian-American division of this forum as an honorary member!

[Unregistered]

A TT illio... "Now you know the rest of the story" :) I often wonder how many people think the place is called "TEETS" !

If the answerer is not at least part Italian-American, you have been inducted into the Italian-American division of this forum as an honorary member!

When I was a kid I always thought they were saying "Tee-Dees".

Ok: 1950-60's downtown Walpole Quiz:

What storeowner exposed a generation of kids to possible dangerous radiation, all while mom and dad looked on cheerfully?

And what was the name of store and where was it??

[Unregistered]

I remember when cars parked on an angle in the center of town...and I could smell bread and goodies baking at the bakery while I sat in my 5th grade class at the Old Stone school with the huge windows wide open. I always jumped when the fire alarm from the station went off...and I remember the lunch horn sounding from Kendalls. I must be old

[Unregistered]

In the "Any Topic" forum, someone had mentioned the "Raven's Nest" opening where the Paddock used to be. Does anyone know what type of restaurant this will be and when we can expect it to open?

Also, looks like CBs (former PrintWorks storefront) will be the Candy Bouquet -- sort of a "sweet" alternative to flower deliveries. But what about the adjoining Dick and Jane's -- does anyone know specifically what type of store this will be?

When can we expect the new "CVS" to be completed? Any indication that the Kahana will ever amount to anything -- any prospects there? How about the convenience store replacing the former Sunoco at Front and Main Sts. --- when will we see this opening? Any hope for the former book store or hair salon (next to the Harney Dance Academy) being occupied?

Nice to see some activity going on in Walpole Center. There's a ways to go, but I believe the foundation is strong with a nice layout -- the attractive town commons, wide streets on the southside, Common St. as a classic side street and some nice elements of small-town America -- Betro Pharmacy, Joe's Barber Shop, Walpole Music, Fresh Start Bakery, First Sandwich Shop, the Quilt Shop, Dee's Nimble Needle, the new fish accessories store etc. Also glad to hear Tee T's will be returning to more of a full-service, family-friendly restaurant. Downtown Walpole needs one of those!

Look forward to any updates anyone might have!

[Unregistered]

Remember when Swenson's, Campbell's and Holt's were downtown? Three excellent clothing stores, long before malls came along.

[Unregistered]

Remember when Swenson's, Campbell's and Holt's were downtown? Three excellent clothing stores, long before malls came along.

You knew you were growing up when you went into Swenson's to get the new gym uniform at the beginning of every school year in junior high. Who will ever forget those goofy blue uniforms, with the "Larry Bird" gym shorts!!

[Sparky]

Here's hoping the new owners of T-Tee's will re-paint the side of that building, and I don't mean in mint green. Eyesore.

[Unregistered]

Yeah, no mint green, but, it wouldn't be 'tooter-ville' unless Walpole Center's building-owners followed the 'School of Bad Aesthetics and Architecture" :) Koo-koo hodge podge of a lack of sense in the 'art dept' with these building owners! They will never get it. Only a few do. (Thank you Herb Lewis Insurance et al for taking good care of your building all these years! )

Speaking of 'architecture', get the number of the 'bus' that had to return to the old 'Swenson block' building to totally 're-do' the perimeter 'exterior work' up there.. Another case of 'the country is going down the tubes.. no one knows how to do anything simple that is important".

[Unregistered]

Here's hoping the new owners of T-Tee's will re-paint the side of that building, and I don't mean in mint green. Eyesore.

I agree and to add to the plight of downtown, I wish the owner's would fix up the building where the ceramic studio is on the corner of 27 and Main.

[Unregistered]

Yeah, no mint green, but, it wouldn't be 'tooter-ville' unless Walpole Center's building-owners followed the 'School of Bad Aesthetics and Architecture" :) Koo-koo hodge podge of a lack of sense in the 'art dept' with these building owners! They will never get it. Only a few do. (Thank you Herb Lewis Insurance et al for taking good care of your building all these years! )

Speaking of 'architecture', get the number of the 'bus' that had to return to the old 'Swenson block' building to totally 're-do' the perimeter 'exterior work' up there.. Another case of 'the country is going down the tubes.. no one knows how to do anything simple that is important".

It's just a case of local Townie owners who don't clean up or restore their buildings. We just need to stop talking about DOwntown Walpole because, let's face it, it's not going to come back. Even Norwood Center is starting to degrade due to lack of tenents. BUt at least Norwood Center has a spectacular Christmas display with lights on every tree and A Town Hall that looks beautiful. I just love the manger in the Center of Walpole with all the advertisements hung up around it. Lot's of class!

[Unregistered]

It's just a case of local Townie owners who don't clean up or restore their buildings. We just need to stop talking about DOwntown Walpole because, let's face it, it's not going to come back. Even Norwood Center is starting to degrade due to lack of tenents. BUt at least Norwood Center has a spectacular Christmas display with lights on every tree and A Town Hall that looks beautiful. I just love the manger in the Center of Walpole with all the advertisements hung up around it. Lot's of class!

C'mon, everything doesn't have to be perfect to be nice. Have a heart.

[Unregistered]

C'mon, everything doesn't have to be perfect to be nice. Have a heart.
I agree, let's not dismiss downtown Walpole or the town, in general. And let's not imply, "Why can't we be more like Norwood?" When you think of that premise, it's kind of a joke -- many Norwood people we know have moved out of Norwood to live what they perceive as a better life in Walpole. I don't know of any Walpole people dreaming of moving to Norwood.

I think, ultimately, we have to look at Walpole as a whole. We have nice-looking neighborhoods, great neighbors, terrific community involvement and events, relatively safe streets, very good schools, and proximity to Boston, Providence, Patriot Place and the Wrentham Outlets. Our downtown has solid bones with its open spaces, great landscaping and some great nice small-town USA stores and restaurants -- Fresh Start Bakery, Dee's Nimble Needles, Walpole Music, Betro Pharmacy, First Sandwich Shop, Joe's Barber Shop, the Quilt Shop, Jalapeno's, and a Secret Haven. With the Candy Boutique (the "fresh fudge" sign looks great!) and a refreshed, more family-oriented Tee T's coming soon, I think we are on the right path -- not perfect, of course, but we would rather be here, than, say, Randolph or Brockton. The wonderful big old homes on Common Street and its church augment our appealing classic small-town USA look. And although I am not too crazy about having to pay more taxes, I think the idea of a new library is great, thus, preserving and improving upon a great cultural institution, the American public library. What especially makes me proud to be in Walpole is the way people come together when someone else has a tragedy or crisis in their family. We have seen this over and over again, and it's real testimony to the integrity and decency of our residents.

You don't have to agree with me on any of these opinions -- and I know, we could debate all day -- but I guess I'm saying in the course of things, we really don't have all that much to complain about. Yes, it is expensive to live here -- and we, personally, might someday find another town to live, where we can get more bang for the buck. That's not to denigrate or disrespect Walpole in any way -- it would strictly be a financial move to a similar-type town with a better cost-of-living presence. But we cherish and are grateful for the moment and the memories -- that we can live in a town like this.

To stress that we need not nitpick, here's another way to look at the town you have chosen to live: Not to overstate things, but the fact that 840 million people worldwide are malnourished, 30 percent of our world population has no electricity, and about 1.1 billion people have inadequate housing or none at all suggests that we should be thankful for what we have. Ultimately, we should try to keep our complaining and sarcasm to a minimum. It's really counterintuitive to building good morale and community togetherness.

Merry Christmas and I hope you find peace with yourself and others in 2010 and beyond -- and a gratefulness that you live where you do.

[Sparky]

Not disagreeing that Walpole is a nice town, but the Manger Scene crowded up against the gazebo with the singers in the background and the sign/banners in front of it is a mockery. Who in town makes that call? Hopefully they will get some feedback and not repeat the mistake next year.

(BTW, as an aside, I agree that it is nonsense to accompany this type of criticism with a "Walpole can't do anything right" attitude, because that is total BS. Walpole does a lot of things right, and if you don't think that is the case, then that makes YOU the misfit for choosing to live here.)

[Unregistered]

Not disagreeing that Walpole is a nice town, but the Manger Scene crowded up against the gazebo with the singers in the background and the sign/banners in front of it is a mockery. Who in town makes that call? Hopefully they will get some feedback and not repeat the mistake next year.

(BTW, as an aside, I agree that it is nonsense to accompany this type of criticism with a "Walpole can't do anything right" attitude, because that is total BS. Walpole does a lot of things right, and if you don't think that is the case, then that makes YOU the misfit for choosing to live here.)

The manger scene is done by others, not the town. The town just provides the spot. The center of town is beautiful at night during Christmas...

[Unregistered]

Major faux pas with the "Victorian" era singers on the bandstand with the 2000 year old era nativity scene... Kind of jogs the aesthetes out here.. :)

[Unregistered]

Major faux pas with the "Victorian" era singers on the bandstand with the 2000 year old era nativity scene... Kind of jogs the aesthetes out here.. :)

The christmas tree looks great in Walpole center.

Too bad Walpole citizens have neglected one of the nicest memorial parks in the Boston area.

I'm talking about Memorial Pond, part of Memorial Park, dedicated to veterans of all wars.

Simply a shame and plain disgusting to those of us who spent many an hour there, especially in the wintertime skating or in front of a bonfire.

[Unregistered]

The manger scene is done by others, not the town. The town just provides the spot. The center of town is beautiful at night during Christmas...

Then it's a problem with both the Town and those who put it up. Perhaps it should be discussed as to a new location of the Manger so that it's not engulfed in advertisement signs hanging around it.

Also, it's time that Santa and his sleigh or reindeers in front of the Police Station said farewell and replaced with a nicer Sant and rewindeer display. This one is now all pitted and disclored.

[Unregistered]

Then it's a problem with both the Town and those who put it up. Perhaps it should be discussed as to a new location of the Manger so that it's not engulfed in advertisement signs hanging around it.

Also, it's time that Santa and his sleigh or reindeers in front of the Police Station said farewell and replaced with a nicer Sant and rewindeer display. This one is now all pitted and disclored.

step up to the plate and get a group together and make it happen, but Im sure you wont. Im thinking the 7 and 8 year olds think "sant" and Rewindeer" display are just fine

[Sparky]

=

Also, it's time that Santa and his sleigh or reindeers in front of the Police Station said farewell and replaced with a nicer Sant and rewindeer display. This one is now all pitted and disclored.
Actually, I'd prefer they keep them and string them 20 feet off the ground like they used to many years ago. To this day, that was about the coolest Christmas display I have ever scene.

[Unregistered]

Actually, I'd prefer they keep them and string them 20 feet off the ground like they used to many years ago. To this day, that was about the coolest Christmas display I have ever scene.

Absolutely.

[Unregistered]

Actually, I'd prefer they keep them and string them 20 feet off the ground like they used to many years ago. To this day, that was about the coolest Christmas display I have ever scene.

I miss that. It didn't take that much effort and looked great. Wish they would do that again next year. Also used to enjoy the decorations on all the light poles in the center of town but those are long gone also.

[Unregistered]

On the 'small common' opposite the PO, right?

[Sparky]

On the 'small common' opposite the PO, right?
Right. Where the new memorial was just upgraded, near the Main Street end so you could see it passing through town. Way cool.

[Unregistered]

Visited Dick and Jane's General Store a few times in the past week, and was really impressed with its interesting mix of retro candy, homemade fudge, coffee, muffins, toys and games, etc. I think this is the type of store that will bring families to downtown Walpole. They really seem to have a vision and a clear pride of ownership -- two tenets to succeeding in a locally-owned business. I like the way they have taken an old-fashioned store theme and brought in a touch of 21st century with WiFi, and wide-screen televisions playing everything from the Food Network to episodes of Seinfeld! Very cool!

Here's an article on Dick and Jane's: http://visitingnewengland.com/blog/2010/01/08/dick-and-janes-general-store-walpole-mass/

[Unregistered]

Thank you for your post on Dick and Jane's. It's pretty sad when your local paper or WalpoleNews does not promote a new business in town, instead the article is on visitingnewengland.com???

[Unregistered]

Visited Dick and Jane's General Store a few times in the past week, and was really impressed with its interesting mix of retro candy, homemade fudge, coffee, muffins, toys and games, etc. I think this is the type of store that will bring families to downtown Walpole. They really seem to have a vision and a clear pride of ownership -- two tenets to succeeding in a locally-owned business. I like the way they have taken an old-fashioned store theme and brought in a touch of 21st century with WiFi, and wide-screen televisions playing everything from the Food Network to episodes of Seinfeld! Very cool!

Here's an article on Dick and Jane's: http://visitingnewengland.com/blog/2010/01/08/dick-and-janes-general-store-walpole-mass/

I have not seen this store yet. Is the entrance on Main Street or is it across from the lot behind Betro's? Looking forward to stopping in!!!

[Unregistered]

Then entrance is on Main St., and if I'm not mistaken you can use the back entrance in the municipal lot behind the firehouse. For those of you who remember waaaay back, it's in the old Spear Hardware building, across the street from Betro's.

[Unregistered]

Thank goodness, someone finally told us where this store is located!

[Unregistered]

I went in there today and it's a great place. I just did a little browsing and had a sample of their carrot cake fudge which was out of this world. I'll definitely be losing money and gaining weight in there. The woman I spoke to, who I assume was the owner, was a very friendly, helpful woman. Definitely check it out.

On another "Downtown Walpole" note...what's up with the 8-10 mail trucks parked in the municipal lot? It may not be a big deal, but I was just curious.

[Unregistered]

I thought the Carrot Cake Fudge was excellent as well. I personally need to stay away since chocolate is my weakness. I thought the prices were a bit hight but my children loved the place. I will definitely be going back. FYI- you can try as many fudge samples as you like which was good and bad since I liked them all!

[Unregistered]

The last couple of years Norwood's Downtown has managed to escape the hits by this recession. Today I drove by the downtown and now I see many vacancies. Is this a sign that things are actually getting worse not better?

[Unregistered]

The last couple of years Norwood's Downtown has managed to escape the hits by this recession. Today I drove by the downtown and now I see many vacancies. Is this a sign that things are actually getting worse not better?

I agree! I go to downtown Norwood a lot and mainly Perk's on Saturday and Sunday morning's and those that I meet there concur that the economy is not getting better. I mean even Norwood, a Demopcratic Town, supported Scott Brown.

Is Obama mad at the results? Take a look at the market over the past week and now he's hot on campaign financing. Would that have anything to do with the fact that the Democrats, come November, are in deep trouble.

[Unregistered]

The last couple of years Norwood's Downtown has managed to escape the hits by this recession. Today I drove by the downtown and now I see many vacancies. Is this a sign that things are actually getting worse not better?

At this time, I like Walpole center better than Norwood. I never thought I'd say that. We have a manageable, quaint and sometimes beautiful (town commons, Common St.) downtown with a bakery, general store, independent pharmacy, and restaurants (Irish, Mexican, breakfast-lunch place in Westbury Farms, pizza and soon-to-be Japanese hibachi steakhouse). With niche shops like the Clay Room, Dee's Nimble Needles, the Quilt Shop, Secret Haven, Replays and Walpole Music, Walpole is beginning to refine its "Main Street USA" look. Plus, I see less of those "talking to themselves" people walking down our Main St. than Norwood. Oh yes, there's a ways to go but walking downtown Walpole is becoming more appealing, retail-wise, to complement its innate friendly, small town feeling.

Oh, to answer your question, I think things will get better soon but will be followed by incredible inflation and increasing taxes. How can it not with the trillions being spent?

[Unregistered]

At this time, I like Walpole center better than Norwood. I never thought I'd say that. We have a manageable, quaint and sometimes beautiful (town commons, Common St.) downtown with a bakery, general store, independent pharmacy, and restaurants (Irish, Mexican, breakfast-lunch place in Westbury Farms, pizza and soon-to-be Japanese hibachi steakhouse). With niche shops like the Clay Room, Dee's Nimble Needles, the Quilt Shop, Secret Haven, Replays and Walpole Music, Walpole is beginning to refine its "Main Street USA" look. Plus, I see less of those "talking to themselves" people walking down our Main St. than Norwood. Oh yes, there's a ways to go but walking downtown Walpole is becoming more appealing, retail-wise, to complement its innate friendly, small town feeling.

Oh, to answer your question, I think things will get better soon but will be followed by incredible inflation and increasing taxes. How can it not with the trillions being spent?

I know you want a perfect town...but less "talking to themselves" people? God forbid you have any mentally defective persons around you. You sound like a mental supremacist.

Sickening.

[Unregistered]

At this time, I like Walpole center better than Norwood. I never thought I'd say that. We have a manageable, quaint and sometimes beautiful (town commons, Common St.) downtown with a bakery, general store, independent pharmacy, and restaurants (Irish, Mexican, breakfast-lunch place in Westbury Farms, pizza and soon-to-be Japanese hibachi steakhouse). With niche shops like the Clay Room, Dee's Nimble Needles, the Quilt Shop, Secret Haven, Replays and Walpole Music, Walpole is beginning to refine its "Main Street USA" look. Plus, I see less of those "talking to themselves" people walking down our Main St. than Norwood. Oh yes, there's a ways to go but walking downtown Walpole is becoming more appealing, retail-wise, to complement its innate friendly, small town feeling.

Oh, to answer your question, I think things will get better soon but will be followed by incredible inflation and increasing taxes. How can it not with the trillions being spent?


Sounds like you've lived in Walpole far too long. Get out once an awhile and take a look at some of the Town Centers.

[Unregistered]

Sounds like you've lived in Walpole far too long. Get out once an awhile and take a look at some of the Town Centers.

That's very mean-spirited, as was the past message (Norwood is a great town, too, and your interpretation of what I said was sickening, given I have someone very close to me that suffers from such a condition). There's nothing wrong with enjoying your town, and seeing progress made. I have traveled quite a bit and realize that there are many far nicer looking communities in the United States than Walpole. But nice looks don't always equate to nice communities. I just think Walpole is a special place. Does anyone else feel this way?

I am really appalled at some of the knit picking that goes on here in the forum. It's like going through the worst elements of high school. People write sincere things here and are then called stupid and townies. The lack of civility is astounding, at times. We are all entitled to opinions -- and, yes, sometimes we write things that we wish we could have written better or with more sensitivity -- but can't some of you be nicer? Does anyone else feel this way?

[Unregistered]

At this time, I like Walpole center better than Norwood. I never thought I'd say that. We have a manageable, quaint and sometimes beautiful (town commons, Common St.) downtown with a bakery, general store, independent pharmacy, and restaurants (Irish, Mexican, breakfast-lunch place in Westbury Farms, pizza and soon-to-be Japanese hibachi steakhouse). With niche shops like the Clay Room, Dee's Nimble Needles, the Quilt Shop, Secret Haven, Replays and Walpole Music, Walpole is beginning to refine its "Main Street USA" look. Plus, I see less of those "talking to themselves" people walking down our Main St. than Norwood. Oh yes, there's a ways to go but walking downtown Walpole is becoming more appealing, retail-wise, to complement its innate friendly, small town feeling.

Oh, to answer your question, I think things will get better soon but will be followed by incredible inflation and increasing taxes. How can it not with the trillions being spent?

Have to laugh at the comment about not seeing the "talking to themselves" people. I dont agree. But I will agree on Norwood Center is not all it's cracked up to be. I saw plenty of empty buildings on Washington St. probably more than Main St here.

[Sparky]

That's very mean-spirited, as was the past message (Norwood is a great town, too, and your interpretation of what I said was sickening, given I have someone very close to me that suffers from such a condition). There's nothing wrong with enjoying your town, and seeing progress made. I have traveled quite a bit and realize that there are many far nicer looking communities in the United States than Walpole. But nice looks don't always equate to nice communities. I just think Walpole is a special place. Does anyone else feel this way?
I do. It's okay to criticize the town because there is always room for improvement. But I think that those who are perennially negative toward the town have either not seen much of the country/world or they have been spoiled and sheltered their whole lives to the point where they don't know how good they have it. Go ask the hundreds of Walpole residents who have moved here from Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, Dedham, Dorchester, Hyde Park, etc. what they think of Walpole. I know lots of people who have moved to Walpole from Norwood. I know of very few who have moved from Walpole to Norwood. Why is that?


I am really appalled at some of the knit picking that goes on here in the forum. It's like going through the worst elements of high school. People write sincere things here and are then called stupid and townies. The lack of civility is astounding, at times. We are all entitled to opinions -- and, yes, sometimes we write things that we wish we could have written better or with more sensitivity -- but can't some of you be nicer? Does anyone else feel this way?
If you're going to participate in internet forums (fora?), you'll need to grow some thicker skin. Don't take it personally.

[Sparky]

Sounds like you've lived in Walpole far too long. Get out once an awhile and take a look at some of the Town Centers.
This is rather condescending. Nevertheless...

I'd rate the general ambiance of Walpole Center as a B+, but it's current configuration more like a B-. Because of it's natural setting, it could become an A- with the right planning and mix of businesses. Some towns have no chance for this type of improvement because of their inherent landscape/setting.

Of course, if you are comparing Walpole Center with the rest of upper-middle class suburbs of Boston, you have set a high standard. I think it is equal or better to all of its bordering towns.

Can you give us some examples of the other town centers you have in mind?

[Sparky]

Suggested improvements to downtown Walpole. Feel free to add your own:

1) Remove and replace the long-vacant Kahana building.
2) Re-surface and reconfigure the giant CVS plaza parking lot, and plant a few trees in there.
3) Totally renovate the Liberty Mall area (building adjoining Finnegan's wake, Tire Specialists, etc.)
4) Put a giant paper bag over the that white sugar cube of a structure that got built on Edgewood Ave.
5) Get the police out of the Old Town Hall.
6) Re-seed the Stone Field grass.
7) Put a nice new library/community center on the corner of Stone and School Streets.

[Sparky]

8) Renovate the Mimi's corner.

[Unregistered]

I do. It's okay to criticize the town because there is always room for improvement. But I think that those who are perennially negative toward the town have either not seen much of the country/world or they have been spoiled and sheltered their whole lives to the point where they don't know how good they have it. Go ask the hundreds of Walpole residents who have moved here from Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, Dedham, Dorchester, Hyde Park, etc. what they think of Walpole. I know lots of people who have moved to Walpole from Norwood. I know of very few who have moved from Walpole to Norwood. Why is that?

Although you paint with an extremely broad brush, you raise some valid points.

If you're going to participate in internet forums (fora?), you'll need to grow some thicker skin. Don't take it personally.

With all due respect, you're absolving yourself with this comment. You're saying it's OK to be condescending. That's never appropriate.

[Unregistered]

I think Walpole center is doing pretty well right now. A couple things I'd like to see changed are the Clay Room building on the corner of East and Main Streets and the dance center next to the new Dick and Jane's store. The Clay Room building could use a fresh coat of paint, that's about it. The big, boring front of the dance center building could use some sprucing up. The rest of the store fronts in the center are good looking and inviting, but that one is just a bunch of boring bricks.

[Unregistered]

8) Renovate the Mimi's corner.

There's nothing wrong with Mimi's Corner. What needs to be fixed are the parking spaces from the First Sandwich Shop down to Peter's. Whoever planned those must have been drunk

[Unregistered]

8) Renovate the Mimi's corner.

I second that motion and add to it the buiding that houses the ceramic studio(corner of 27 and Main). Maybe that will entice the owner of the Kahana building to spruce it up (10+ years and growing). What an eyesore!

[Unregistered]

I have an idea for the former Kahana site. Just wondering if the Neponset Valley Chamber would consider moving there. By doing so, this would:

1. Showcase, at the gateway of downtown Walpole, that we have an active, vibrant community. A good chamber operation and physical building presence fosters a good business feel for the given community and region. So when people are just about to enter downtown Walpole from the north on Route 1A, they are introduced to a "lifeblood" of our business community. Combined with the impressive-looking natural, classic New England look of the downtown coming in from the south on Route 1, we would have "both ends covered." What a great introduction to our downtown from the north and south!

2. The Neponset Valley Chamber could be better integrated into the heart of one of the communities it serves rather than be tucked away in some faceless "office park land."

I would assume that given the building owner's lack of interest in having a store or restaurant there (proof: nothing has been there for more than 10 years), wouldn't it be a great idea for an organization like the Neponset Chamber to take the initiative to fill that building themselves? Thus, there would be no worry about if a business will ever go in there. And the Chamber fulfills a need to improve the business climate of one of the towns they represent! A win-win situation? In theory, yes!

What say you, Walpole and Neponset Chamber?

[Unregistered]

Best:
Epiphany Church
United Church
Walpole Cooperative Bank
BankAmerica
Old Town Hall
Blackburn Hall
Plimpton Block (old bldg. corner of 1a & 27)

Worst:
Liberty Village Mall
Glenwood Ave. Box
Kahana Bldg.

Did I miss anything??

[Unregistered]

I have an idea for the former Kahana site. Just wondering if the Neponset Valley Chamber would consider moving there. By doing so, this would:

1. Showcase, at the gateway of downtown Walpole, that we have an active, vibrant community. A good chamber operation and physical building presence fosters a good business feel for the given community and region. So when people are just about to enter downtown Walpole from the north on Route 1A, they are introduced to a "lifeblood" of our business community. Combined with the impressive-looking natural, classic New England look of the downtown coming in from the south on Route 1, we would have "both ends covered." What a great introduction to our downtown from the north and south!

2. The Neponset Valley Chamber could be better integrated into the heart of one of the communities it serves rather than be tucked away in some faceless "office park land."

I would assume that given the building owner's lack of interest in having a store or restaurant there (proof: nothing has been there for more than 10 years), wouldn't it be a great idea for an organization like the Neponset Chamber to take the initiative to fill that building themselves? Thus, there would be no worry about if a business will ever go in there. And the Chamber fulfills a need to improve the business climate of one of the towns they represent! A win-win situation? In theory, yes!

What say you, Walpole and Neponset Chamber?

Are you proposing taking the land and building from the current, lawfull, tax paying, legal owner? I agree that the building is an unsightly eyesore that is a blight on the downtown area.

However, I am more concerned with a person's right to do with their property what they want, even if it is not what the majority of the community wants. If the owner was seeking tenants he would advertise as such.

[Sparky]

Best:
Epiphany Church
United Church
Walpole Cooperative Bank
BankAmerica
Old Town Hall
Blackburn Hall
Plimpton Block (old bldg. corner of 1a & 27)

Worst:
Liberty Village Mall
Glenwood Ave. Box
Kahana Bldg.

Did I miss anything??
I agree with your lists, except BankOfAmerica. Did you really mean something else?

The common areas, and the gazebo, are nice (though the Manger Scene got short shrift this past Christmas).

The Rockwood Buildig on East Street and the Subway building were done well.

Memorial Pond being right off the center is nice, but they need to run those aerators (or whatever they are called) again to remove the algae growth. Why did they only run those for such a short time?

The town pool being close to the center is also kind of a cool thing because it's a throwback. You don't really see that many places.

[Unregistered]

Best:
Epiphany Church
United Church
Walpole Cooperative Bank
BankAmerica
Old Town Hall
Blackburn Hall
Plimpton Block (old bldg. corner of 1a & 27)

Worst:
Liberty Village Mall
Glenwood Ave. Box
Kahana Bldg.

Did I miss anything??

And add to the Worst:

Tee's Tee's corner
The entire 1a Shopping Center (Spuce up the building where all the empty shops are)
A couple of those store fronts to the right of Subway.

[Unregistered]

HI,
My mother in law has a game that she bought at a store called Ronnies and she believes it was near Hair Connection (in the former Ashmonts Plazza). We were curious if anyone remembered the store and where it was located.

Thanks in advance for any responses.

[Unregistered]

No, I am not suggesting eminent domain -- just dialogue between the two parties, if they are interested in this idea. That dialogue could result in a situation benefitting both parties. I didn't post the question to talk about the financial/legal details -- that is up to the parties involved. I'm just wondering if people like my idea, and leave it at that, at this point. In another words, let's not put the cart ahead of the horse and talk about legal stuff. Let's just talk about the merit of the idea, and if the Chamber and Kahana owners like it, let them work out the details.

Of course, a person has the right to do what they want with their property. That's not my point. My point is that nothing has worked in getting retail in there, and it's screwing up a contingent of our town's development. Sure, other town's might go the eminent domain route, and that is not necessary if, again, creative ideas and ensuing dialogue take place between two parties to make the town a better, business friendly place.

So, again, what do you think of the idea? Just the idea...

[Unregistered]

I think Ronnies was the store before it was Ashmont. That's a name from the past!!

[Unregistered]

No, I am not suggesting eminent domain -- just dialogue between the two parties, if they are interested in this idea. That dialogue could result in a situation benefitting both parties. I didn't post the question to talk about the financial/legal details -- that is up to the parties involved. I'm just wondering if people like my idea, and leave it at that, at this point. In another words, let's not put the cart ahead of the horse and talk about legal stuff. Let's just talk about the merit of the idea, and if the Chamber and Kahana owners like it, let them work out the details.

Of course, a person has the right to do what they want with their property. That's not my point. My point is that nothing has worked in getting retail in there, and it's screwing up a contingent of our town's development. Sure, other town's might go the eminent domain route, and that is not necessary if, again, creative ideas and ensuing dialogue take place between two parties to make the town a better, business friendly place.

So, again, what do you think of the idea? Just the idea...

It is a good idea, but not one that I see coming to pass, either the owner would need to put the money into renovations, or the Chamber of Commerce would have to pay prior to occupancy. The cost of renovationg a practically abandoned former food service venue into workable office space is going to run into the tens, possible hundreds of thousands. I can not even imagine how much dirt and filth there is in that building.

I'd like to see more business downtown, but the simple fact is that Walpole does nothing to attract business...and then complains when there is not enought business tax revenue. Any business that is going to provide the town with any sizable tax windfall is run out of town. Walpole Mall Expansion, PowerPlant, Waste Transfer, and coming soon...BioTech. I have seen this town reject Industrial, Retail, Food Service. East, South, North Walpole Large Scale/Small Scale no matter. Even business that have been in Walpole for DECADES (Walpole Woodworkers) have realized that the climate towards business in this town is literally not worth the cost of doing business and are looking elsewhere.

I have no issue with this mentallity, as I for one like the fact that I live in a bedroom community. But the people who scream no overrides in November, and are then complaining about new business opprotunites at Town Meeting drive me crazy.

Walpole as a whole needs a commnunity understanding as to what type of town we want to be. One that is pro business so that the people who live here do not need to pay a residential tax rate that is high to provide high quality services (See Natick, Norwood, and more recently Westwood and Sharon) but at the same understand that this will result in traffic, pollution and other costs. Or, are we going to be a purely residential comminuty, with no large scale business to speak of that pays for services resulting in higher residential fees and tax rate (See Medfield and Norfolk)

Personally, I have no real issue with either position. The former keeps my taxes lower, and will help me save money. The latter will cost me more on property tax, but see a better overall return on my real estate investment for my family in the long run. But as long we don't some to a majority of thinking on this, the longer the Town will drift with no image and no practical progress towards a solution

[Unregistered]

I think Ronnies was the store before it was Ashmont. That's a name from the past!!

Also in that plaza was the Fernandes super market, with an excellent lunch counter.

[Sparky]

Also in that plaza was the Fernandes super market, with an excellent lunch counter.
Yes, circa 1967, Ronnie's was located at the former Ashmont, and Fernandes was the remainder of the building to the right, when facing it from Main Street. The plaza to the left (Family Pizzeria) was then built some time in the late 1960's, and the plaza to the right (behind Dunkin Donuts) came along in the 1970's.

Further down Main Street, the McDonald's was built in 1969, the year that they introduced the Big Mac.

Continuing down to the current Stop & Shop was "Giant Land" to the right, which was a warehouse department store, with the Purity Supreme super market as the anchor store to the left. Also down there was the Papa Gino's and KiHei Chinese Restaurant. Giant's became a Purity Supreme warehouse, until Stop & Shop took it over (1980's?). Then S&S bought the entire plaza and razed it, building the current super store in 2002.

[Unregistered]

The Walpole Chamber of Commerce is hosting the official Grand Opening of Dick and Jane's General Store, tonight, Feb. 2, 2010, from 6-9 p.m. This store is really fantastic, as they combine "yesterday" -- retro candies, homemade fudge, toys and games -- with modern elements like WiFi and wide screen televisions. The owners are very nice people and are already becoming quite involved with the Walpole community. I personally think this is just what downtown Walpole needs -- a quality niche store with wide appeal. It's also nice to see pride of ownership -- the owners clearly enjoy what they are doing.

Dick and Jane's is located at 944 Main St. near the intersection of Routes 1A and 27 (a few stores up from Mangia.)

Here is the "invite" from the Walpole Chamber: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=286049476921&ref=mf

[Unregistered]

I don't remember if it was before or after Purity Supreme, but before the STOP AND SHOP,
HEARTLAND and HEARTLAND DRUG were to two big stores in that area. I also remember a
CVS warehouse type store was over there and CARVEL ice cream.
Does anyone remember YUM YUM BAKERY and ADAP in the other plaza where the ROCKY"S store is now?

[Unregistered]

That was the short period that the ASHMONT sign (which was made FROM the Ronnie's neon sign elements) had a dead neon tube... At night it looked like "SHMONTS" :)

[Unregistered]

That was the short period that the ASHMONT sign (which was made FROM the Ronnie's neon sign elements) had a dead neon tube... At night it looked like "SHMONTS" :)

eventually it was "HMON"

[Unregistered]

Jim Turco.. If you knew him, you were blessed. Remember his politeness and sincerity? Gosh.. RIP Mr Turco...

[Unregistered]

Here is a little blurb from VisitingNewEngland.com blog about the Raven's Nest Irish pub restaurant coming to downtown Walpole (location of the former Paddock restaurant): http://newenglandtravelnews.blogspot.com/2010/03/mad-raven-pub-and-restaurant-in-waltham.html. Looks like it will be a quality-run restaurant, given the high standards of the Waltham location!

[Unregistered]

Here is a little blurb from VisitingNewEngland.com blog about the Raven's Nest Irish pub restaurant coming to downtown Walpole (location of the former Paddock restaurant): http://newenglandtravelnews.blogspot.com/2010/03/mad-raven-pub-and-restaurant-in-waltham.html. Looks like it will be a quality-run restaurant, given the high standards of the Waltham location!

great...another irish pub in town. I guess 2 in the center of town isnt enough. they can have a cornbeef cook off !

[Unregistered]

#73: people complain over and over again that there is nothing downtown Now, we are going to have a nice restaurant and STILL you are not happy! What is wrong with you? Who cares what kind of an establishment it is as long as it is clean, good food, well run, etc. You would find something to complain about if it were Luciano's in the center of town. Get a life! I have no idea who the person is opening this place, but you can only wish him well taking a chance in this economy. Competition is healthy. Go find a rock because obviously nothing can please you.

[Unregistered]

Anyone out and about during the storm could easily see why a huge dual facility on the old downtown swamp is not a good idea...the fields were flooded and the Spring brook was torrential

[Unregistered]

Anyone out and about during the storm could easily see why a huge dual facility on the old downtown swamp is not a good idea...the fields were flooded and the Spring brook was torrential

What is the old downtown swamp? As a relative newcomer I am curious, in order to vote the right way. All oldtimer replies appreciated.

[Unregistered]

Well said Post 74! Some people are never happy.

[Unregistered]

Well said Post 74! Some people are never happy.

I wrote the post, I guess your right, just another irish joint that I can stumble home from But lets be serious, I remember when people fought Dunkin Donuts when the wanted to build a place near country kitchen, saying we already have to many in the center of town.

Jimmy McDooligan...

[Unregistered]

The best location for the police station is downtown. The buildings weren't flooded. The area must be okay because the plan is to put the new fire station downtown. The post about the swamp is a red herring.

[Unregistered]

The best location for the police station is downtown. The buildings weren't flooded. The area must be okay because the plan is to put the new fire station downtown. The post about the swamp is a red herring.

The field behind Town Hall is NOT suitable for building. An engineering study was done for the Senior Center and that site is NOT SUITABLE TO BUILD ON. It would be great if people could make the discussion priductive and STOP talking about building on Stone Field. It is NOT POSSIBLE to build a facility there!

[Unregistered]

Do you know where I could get a copy of the study you are referring to? Thanks.

[Unregistered]

The supporters of the senior center wanted the new library site which is downtown and then they wanted a site next to Blackburn Hall which is downtown.They also wanted a site right next to the new library which is guess what? Downtown. Who's kidding who here?

Was the water just congregated under Stone Field? The post about not being able to build on Stone Field is comical. The police station doesn't have to be right on Stone Field.

A combined facility can go where the fire station is now.

[Unregistered]

I would also like to see a copy of the study determining that stone field cannot be built on. Where do I find it?

[Unregistered]

For those ready for a down town dual facility are you ready to say yes to the 18-20 million cost as well as a complete disruption of the area for 1 1/2 years along with a real loss of a downton as we know it? I truely doubt it. You will still vote NO and feel quite smug about it.

[Unregistered]

For those ready for a down town dual facility are you ready to say yes to the 18-20 million cost as well as a complete disruption of the area for 1 1/2 years along with a real loss of a downton as we know it? I truely doubt it. You will still vote NO and feel quite smug about it.



loss of downtown?? How ?? Would the new fire / police buildings go on the sidewalks on Main Street. There are at least 6 ways to enter the center of town from other directions. This is not patriots stadium being built..

[Unregistered]

Is the study available at the Town hall?

[Unregistered]

Downtown flooding? I must ahve missed it, but I did see the lake that appeared under the Elm St bridge, shutting the road down for two days. If the police station was where some want to build it, it would be a nightmare to get to and from the police station during these times. It took me 20 minutes to get from Elm and Robbins to CVS during the flood. Traffic was a disaster.

[Unregistered]

A couple of posters have mentioned a study of some kind -- can someone tell me what this is about? What was studied?

[Unregistered]

Nice to see local guy Steve Butters (from Norwood) open Butter Cafe and Bakery (at the former Fresh Start Bakery site on East St.). This place is phenomenal! I think the creative flair on comfort foods (made-from-scratch chicken pot pie, pot roast sandwich, Cuban with pork, ham, pickles and cheese, etc.) and baked goods (peanut butter whoopie pie, update on the Hostess Cupcake, etc.) will be a nice addition to Walpole. It's great that they'll be adding later hours and an outdoor dining deck. We need this more of this type of forward-thinking and filling a niche in the downtown district.

Perhaps with Butter Cafe and the impending opening of the Raven's Nest will spark some more business openings downtown, or maybe a growth of restaurants -- like what Norwood experienced several years ago.

Here is the article on Butter Cafe and Bakery at VisitingNewEngland.com: http://www.visitingnewengland.com/butter-cafe-bakery.html

[Unregistered]

The field behind Town Hall is NOT suitable for building. An engineering study was done for the Senior Center and that site is NOT SUITABLE TO BUILD ON. It would be great if people could make the discussion priductive and STOP talking about building on Stone Field. It is NOT POSSIBLE to build a facility there!

OK here we go --multiple posters have asked you for info re: the study! No one --(hello unregistered -- you seem to have dropped off the face of th earth since you poted this comment!)-- has given us ANYTHING on this topic. Please either 1) give us the info or 2) tell us that you made this up! STOP WASTING OUR TIME!!!!

[Unregistered]

Why is it not possible to build on something that is surrounded by buildings, and will include another one when the library is built. You wouldn't by chance be affiliated with Walpole Pop Warner Football, would you? I recently learned, or rather, heard a rumor, that this would be the last year of the carnival, and that Pop Warner was taking over the field, putting up a new fence, and resurfacing the field. Is there any truth to that? I know the field is already used by the youth football program, but it's also used by the youth softball and baseball teams. It's used for Walpole Day as well as the Night Before the 4th. Will the baseball field remain there? Will the football program have a say in who is allowed to use the field and what it can be used for? I'm no fan of the carnival, but that's a big fundraiser for the youth baseball program isn't it? So do they have to come up with another fund-raising source after using that one for as long as I can remember? I'm not trying to stir the pot, just trying to clarify a rumor and see how much truth there is to it, if any.

[Unregistered]

OK here we go --multiple posters have asked you for info re: the study! No one --(hello unregistered -- you seem to have dropped off the face of th earth since you poted this comment!)-- has given us ANYTHING on this topic. Please either 1) give us the info or 2) tell us that you made this up! STOP WASTING OUR TIME!!!!

I remember something about this plan. Attorney Phil Macchi saying due to stormwater management requirements, the building would have to be built on a mound a 100 feet high, or something crazy like that. Google his name, council on aging, and stormwater management, walpole.

One thing that came up was this interesting letter that references the study/plan you are looking for.

See http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/homepage/x1424438238/Oct-2-Letters-to-the-Editor


Friends of the COA remain committed

I would like clarify information cited in Jeb Bobseine's "Plans for Center hub gain steam" article in the Sept. 25th Walpole Times.
The Friends of the Walpole Council on Aging, Inc. is a private entity – a 501(c) 3 non-profit corporation – NOT an arm of the Council on Aging. The Friends' mission is to enhance the quality of life of all citizens who are at least 60 years of age.
The Friends have committed themselves to building a COA Center using private funding so as to not impact the taxpayers; it also allows for the construction of a building that suits Walpole needs, not some expensive state-mandated extravagance.
The Friends have enlisted a number of noted town citizens to act as advisors for the fundraising and construction aspects of our project. After hours of work on the part of Philip Macchi, Richard Shields and John Anderson, it has become clear that the site which had been proposed for our project was not feasible; it would not only be enormously expensive to create stormwater management, but it would use up most of the field. Also, it was not good planning if in fact at some future date other facilities might be located in the same general area. The aforementioned advisers have created a facsimile of an Existing Conditions Site Plan (which the town should have had, but didn't), taking into account the current Town Hall, Blackburn Hall, the proposed library, the proposed (COA) Adult Community Center, and in the future, conceivably a new and/or renovated police/fire station. It has become obvious that parking, efficient traffic flow, and attractive treescape could be accomplished whether or not any new projects become a reality, and as a bonus, the field could remain for recreation and the Night Before the 4th celebration.
The point is the Friends of the COA, Inc. are interested in their project's location in this kind of plan. By itself, it means being accessible to the street, and because of the high water table, stormwater management would be more feasible and more economical. In the event that other projects become a reality, individually they readily become part of a cohesive whole and none interferes with the others.
The Friends, with good intent, embarked on this project not totally realizing what is involved in private fundraising before reaching the point of actually asking for the money. We have been most fortunate that this is Walpole, where generosity is more than just a word. The people who have joined us in this endeavor all share in common that Walpole is a special place; we celebrate living in a town where people care and believe in upholding the traditions of those who came before us.
We look forward to achieving the goals we have set for ourselves and give to Walpole a center under the direction of the Council on Aging like no other.
Susan Maguire, president
The Friends of Walpole's Council on Aging, Inc.

I don't know who has this study or plan, but it does seem to exist. See this extensive discussion at a BOS meeting a couple of years ago too:

http://walpole-ma.gov/BOSMinutes/Min081208.pdf

[Unregistered]

Why is it not possible to build on something that is surrounded by buildings, and will include another one when the library is built. You wouldn't by chance be affiliated with Walpole Pop Warner Football, would you? I recently learned, or rather, heard a rumor, that this would be the last year of the carnival, and that Pop Warner was taking over the field, putting up a new fence, and resurfacing the field. Is there any truth to that? I know the field is already used by the youth football program, but it's also used by the youth softball and baseball teams. It's used for Walpole Day as well as the Night Before the 4th. Will the baseball field remain there? Will the football program have a say in who is allowed to use the field and what it can be used for? I'm no fan of the carnival, but that's a big fundraiser for the youth baseball program isn't it? So do they have to come up with another fund-raising source after using that one for as long as I can remember? I'm not trying to stir the pot, just trying to clarify a rumor and see how much truth there is to it, if any.

Does anyone really know how much money is given to the baseball program ? BTW none of the money is for town run baseball programs, its for the private program. It's about time that eyesore is gone from here. Everyone will still be able to use the field, and also, its not Pop Warner anymore, not for years.

[Unregistered]

Ok, I did good this time. Before going off on my rant, I did a little investigating. The carnival is sponsored by the American Legion, which, according to my sources (google), supports baseball, football and lacrosse. Here is the actual "definition" from the official American Legion website....

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest veterans service organization, committed to mentoring and sponsorship of youth programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.

I was always under the impression it was sponsored by Walpole Little League, though from what I just stated, they probably do benefit from it. American Legion baseball is not a private program either. As far as I know, there is no private baseball program in Walpole.

And I was actually also aware that it is no longer called Pop Warner, but I was pretty confident I was getting my point across by using that term. And apparently I did since you found the need to correct me. This forum needs a selection of "smileys" to put in the posts because I really wanted to end that last sentence with the little dude that's rolling his eyes.

after clicking on "reply" or "reply to thread," instead of "quick reply, use "go advanced" under quick reply text box -- small collection of smileys there, including rolling eyes --tg :rolleyes:

[Unregistered]

I'm actually not seeing any of the things you mentioned. Do you need to be a registered user for that function? Probably better off. Having smileys would do nothing to curb my sarcasm lol. Though putting my name on posts might.

You're right, sorry. "Go advanced" seems to be tied into the "edit post" function. Last year, I eliminated the ability of unregistered users to edit posts after a helpful reader pointed out that any unregistered user could edit any other unregistered user's post. I closed registrations long before that because spambot registration attempts vastly outnumbered those from real people; sorting them out took too many hours. Got a suggestion from a reader a while back to open registrations maybe for a week or so with plenty of notice that humans could read. could register under a nickname and password. that way, everybody could use smileys (smilies?) and start threads. any feedback? -- tg

[Sparky]

New CVS parking configuration...

OK, the parking configuration itself is an improvement. But making the north-side entrance (near Supreme Pizza) as "Exit Only" is foolish. If you are approaching the center of town from that direction, there's often a line of cars from Rte. 27 all the way back to that point. Rather than avoid that line, you're now supposed to get in line with all those cars until you reach the "Entrance" down near the 7-11. Who came up with that one?

[Unregistered]

Take a left before Supreme Pizza, between the apartment building and the Supreme building. You can get into the CVS lost through there.

[Unregistered]

I meant take a right between those buildings if going South.

[Unregistered]

regarding the northerly exit/entrance being one way: it is not suppose to be. The plan of record shows it be both entrance and exit. CVS made it one way themselves, but I am sure that will be changed shortly as it is not what was presented and approved.

[Unregistered]

Has anyone heard about this????


http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/dedham/2010/06/dedham_men_accused_in_brutal_w.html

[Unregistered]

Anyone know what, if anything, is going into the currently empty storefront right next to The Raven's Nest? The "Space Available" sign is gone and the exterior of the storefront has been painted white -- seemingly overnight.

[Unregistered]

While the Raven's Nest was being worked in, there appeared to be a lot of work going on in the storefront next door as well. Did the owner of the Raven's Nest buy both? That's been empty since Watson's moved out. It would be good to see something go in there.

[Unregistered]

If they were smart they bought the spot next door and will use it for functions.

[Unregistered]

While the Raven's Nest was being worked in, there appeared to be a lot of work going on in the storefront next door as well. Did the owner of the Raven's Nest buy both? That's been empty since Watson's moved out. It would be good to see something go in there.

There was a karate business in there for a while after Watson's - Fred Villari's I think.

[Unregistered]

Anyone know what, if anything, is going into the currently empty storefront right next to The Raven's Nest? The "Space Available" sign is gone and the exterior of the storefront has been painted white -- seemingly overnight.

Never mind, the "Space Available" sign is back up. I suppose they had to take the sign down so they could paint behind it!

[Sparky]

I noticed that they have posted another tacky sign on the already-tacky side of Tee-T's. Have the new owners taken charge yet?

[Unregistered]

I noticed that the Domino's Pizza on Washington Street will be a Real Estate Office. The proposed Bar is now a dead issue.

[Unregistered]

What is being built across from stop and shop on 1a? And are they reopening the train station? I saw a crew working in there recently.

[Unregistered]

What is being built across from stop and shop on 1a? And are they reopening the train station? I saw a crew working in there recently.

A reMax real estate office is going in there. The plans look really nice. And, they worked with the neighbors to get their approval and input. Nice job.

[Unregistered]

A reMax real estate office is going in there. The plans look really nice. And, they worked with the neighbors to get their approval and input. Nice job.

Nice Job yes, but it will be a traffic mess since nobody pays attention to the Gill Street sign for no left turn onto 1A

[Unregistered]

Nice Job yes, but it will be a traffic mess since nobody pays attention to the Gill Street sign for no left turn onto 1A

But how much traffic will the office generate? It's not like a Dunkin Donuts or fast food outlet.

[Unregistered]

It remains to be seen how much traffic a real estate office building would generate on the corner of Gill and Main Sts.
There are other offices in the huge ReMax building in Foxboro (on Mechanic Street not far from Foxboro Center) that also generate traffic. Would it compare to that building?
There was also a rumor floating around that a building for a drug store chain was going into that spot. Probably just a rumor.
Remains to be seen.

[Sparky]

For those who have seen the plan, will there be an entrance from Gill Street, or only from Main Street?

[Sparky]

Not really downtown, but...

The new ReMax building on Main Street across from McDonalds looks great. They're doing it right.

Should hire them to fix Kahana, Mimi's, Tee-T's, etc. !

[Unregistered]

The sign is down at Dick and Jane's General Store and the inside looks empty. The business only lasted about nine months. What are your feelings about why they couldn't make it in downtown Walpole?

[Unregistered]

Noticed that Dick and Jane's is gone... anyone know if they opened somewhere else, or are they just gone, gone?

[Unregistered]

Walpole could not have had a more involved couple than the proprieters . They jumped right in to help the town especially with the farmers market.Simply stated the people of walpole do not frequent the downtown area and thus the merchants get little support

[Unregistered]

Walpole could not have had a more involved couple than the proprieters . They jumped right in to help the town especially with the farmers market.Simply stated the people of walpole do not frequent the downtown area and thus the merchants get little support

All of the land use battles and zoning fights over protecting our drinking water have taken a toll. I know many people who chosse to spend $$ outside of Walpole because of the politics, spite, and ill will caused by zoning battles over bad and dirty business along with the constant threats to our drinking water. It is always the same crew, and thus many people choose not to support the town in return. You may not agree. You may not think it makes sense. But it is the reality.

[Unregistered]

All of the land use battles and zoning fights over protecting our drinking water have taken a toll. I know many people who chosse to spend $$ outside of Walpole because of the politics, spite, and ill will caused by zoning battles over bad and dirty business along with the constant threats to our drinking water. It is always the same crew, and thus many people choose not to support the town in return. You may not agree. You may not think it makes sense. But it is the reality.

walpole has some of the cleanest water IN THE WORLD.

Professor Pitchfork: please explain how that happens when we have a swamp and a recycling facility right on top of the aquifer. I am waiting...tic tic tic tic

[Unregistered]

walpole has some of the cleanest water IN THE WORLD.

Professor Pitchfork: please explain how that happens when we have a swamp and a recycling facility right on top of the aquifer. I am waiting...tic tic tic tic

I am wondering where you obtained the data that "walpole has some of the cleanest water IN THE WORLD."?
interesting assertion, just wondering where the supporting data might be found?

[Unregistered]

walpole has some of the cleanest water IN THE WORLD.

Professor Pitchfork: please explain how that happens when we have a swamp and a recycling facility right on top of the aquifer. I am waiting...tic tic tic tic

I am not certain we have the cleanest water IN THE WORLD:) You would really need to support that statement as it is clearly a pretty far fetched comment.

But as for WHY we have any water at all,... silly you,... thanks to the pitchforkers you so love to make fun of! They have stopped anlaundry list of junk brought by a few bad apples.

The "swamp" is the aquifer. It is the water draining back into the land. That is why it is part of the Acquifer... get it. The recycling facility is being persued by the state for contamination and destruction of wet lands. Sadly the state got involved because our own local officials did nothing. The whole issue was brought to a head by a resident going up in a helicopter and taking pictures, then comparing it to old photos. Thank goodness once again for those "pitch-forkers"!

Let's face it. Your crowd is dwindling. The jig is up. Every time you try to make a point you look sillier and sillier. Quit while you are behind.

[Unregistered]

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/highlight/x1665093306/Walpole-pharmacies-must-choose-between-selling-tobacco-products-or-prescription-medication

So the Walpole Board of Health has forced the 4 Walpole pharmacies to stop selling tobacco products. Tobacco is not illegal. There is PLENTY of competition in this field. I am suprised that our Board of Health would take such an aggressive action. This is a perfect example of the "hurry up and stop!" message that this town constantly gives to businesses. We gripe that we have no business base, yet we make it so darn difficult to do business in this town. Especially for friendly and non-disruptive businesses. Then we invite in Power Plants and the like.

I am constantly scratching my head at how confused and poorly run this town is. It really is comparable to chickens with their heads cut off. We torment and drive every decent small business out of town, and then we ask residents to accept catastophic menaces because we have no business.

[Unregistered]

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/highlight/x1665093306/Walpole-pharmacies-must-choose-between-selling-tobacco-products-or-prescription-medication

So the name of the Chair of the Walpole Board of Health is William Morris. Wouldn't it have been a delicious irony if his name had been Phillip Morris!

And to the previous poster, this ban is not going to exactly effect "small business" WalMart, CVS, Big Y?

[Unregistered]

from the article...

"Walpole resident Dr. Joseph Dorsey first presented the tobacco prohibition to the board in February, arguing it didn’t make sense that pharmacies, which sell products to improve people’s health, would peddle cigarettes and tobacco products that clearly harm people."

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/highlight/x1665093306/Walpole-pharmacies-must-choose-between-selling-tobacco-products-or-prescription-medication

Maybe we should ban hammers being sold at ACE hardware...they may be used both ways: For "building or bashing".

I think that this is a rediculous waste of time.

[Unregistered]

So the name of the Chair of the Walpole Board of Health is William Morris. Wouldn't it have been a delicious irony if his name had been Phillip Morris!

And to the previous poster, this ban is not going to exactly effect "small business" WalMart, CVS, Big Y?

"Small" as in not a power plant or some other mogolyth operation that goes BOOM and releases who knows what into our community.

[Unregistered]

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/highlight/x1665093306/Walpole-pharmacies-must-choose-between-selling-tobacco-products-or-prescription-medication

So the Walpole Board of Health has forced the 4 Walpole pharmacies to stop selling tobacco products. Tobacco is not illegal. There is PLENTY of competition in this field. I am suprised that our Board of Health would take such an aggressive action. This is a perfect example of the "hurry up and stop!" message that this town constantly gives to businesses. We gripe that we have no business base, yet we make it so darn difficult to do business in this town. Especially for friendly and non-disruptive businesses. Then we invite in Power Plants and the like.

I am constantly scratching my head at how confused and poorly run this town is. It really is comparable to chickens with their heads cut off. We torment and drive every decent small business out of town, and then we ask residents to accept catastophic menaces because we have no business.

you are so right. watch out people who favor this, until they take away something you like...next out board of health will want to restrict ice dream..then mcdonalds..they cant even run a flu clinic right, last year, did not have enough doses, had old people standing waiting in the hallway.....one poster said it wont hurt the big stors...but what about the small ones that need to get people in the door, maybe to buy a pack and to also buy something else while there...

[Unregistered]

Don't the convenience stores like 7-11 sell medications as well? Not prescription ones, but I don't understand the distinction being made here. You can get tylenol and lung cancer at 7-11 or Mimi's, but not at CVS?

[Unregistered]

Anyone know what the status is of the supposed convenience store on the corner near Becketts, what's it going to be and when is it opening. Also, any plans for Dick and Janes empty space?

[Unregistered]

Anynoe know how much in tax revuews we lost as a result of Stergi Windows moving out of Walpole to Attleboro?

http://www.thesunchronicle.com/articles/2011/01/15/news/8692558.txt

[Unregistered]

Anynoe know how much in tax revuews we lost as a result of Stergi Windows moving out of Walpole to Attleboro?

http://www.thesunchronicle.com/articles/2011/01/15/news/8692558.txt

Not only Stergis, but Fiber Innovations up at Walpole Park South. 20-30 jobs lost...the place was sold and moved out of state. We can't expect business owners to think of Walpole first, however one of the owners of Fiber Innovations was a graduate of WHS (class of 1972).

[Unregistered]

Anynoe know how much in tax revuews we lost as a result of Stergi Windows moving out of Walpole to Attleboro?

http://www.thesunchronicle.com/articles/2011/01/15/news/8692558.txt

What tax revenues would that business be generating for Walpole aside from property taxes, which will still be collected because the property is still there?

[Unregistered]

Anynoe know how much in tax revuews we lost as a result of Stergi Windows moving out of Walpole to Attleboro?

http://www.thesunchronicle.com/articles/2011/01/15/news/8692558.txt

Nothing. The town is not loosing anything in property taxe. The building owner needs to continue to pay taxes, regardless of wether or not they have a tennant. From the article it sounds like Stergis outgrew their space, and wanted to own their own building. Their new building looks nice, despite having apparently been vacant for some time. Kudos to Attleboro for having proprty that is attractive enough to "attract" business.

The biggest issue we have with attracting business in Walpole, is the condition and asthetics of property. Good luck to the landlord re-leasing that space. That entire facility over there is an eye-soar. Just like the industrial park. When we get serious about zoning enforcement, and require owners to keep up their property, we will see an uptick in business. No one would want to open up shop in much of the available space in our town. Have you taken a gander at the disgrace we call the "Walpole Industrial Park"? And that is where much of our open space is? Who would ever invest there?

Our single biggest problems are a lack of vision and a lack of standards.

[Unregistered]

Not only Stergis, but Fiber Innovations up at Walpole Park South. 20-30 jobs lost...the place was sold and moved out of state. We can't expect business owners to think of Walpole first, however one of the owners of Fiber Innovations was a graduate of WHS (class of 1972).

This sounds less like a Walpole issue, and more like an issue with the competitiveness of our state in general.

[Unregistered]

How wonderful to see Turner Pond Lodge open! I was there yesterday skating. Anyone can go and skate
and get some delicious hot chocolate in the lodge. Fabulous. The ice is smooth. People of all ages
standing around and chatting with each other. No video games, no vending machines. Thank you Board of Selectmen and Ponds Committee!!

[Unregistered]

It was announced as a press release in the Walpole Times a few weeks back that Dick & Jane's store will become Cruisers Resataurant. It will have an automotive theme to it and serve comfort food. They claim to have the original fried chicken recipe from Topsy's Fontaine's Restaurant that used to be on the Dedham/West Roxbury line.
The convenience store near Beckett's is being worked on and must have had some type of construction delay.
Cruisers had a minor fire during construction, the original plan was to be open in December and I think that has moved to March. It will be a good thing to have another in the downtown business district. I wish them good fortune.
Bella Fortuna to both of the new businesses. I look forward to Fontaine's fried chicken, it was the best in the area for many years.

[Unregistered]

It was announced as a press release in the Walpole Times a few weeks back that Dick & Jane's store will become Cruisers Resataurant. It will have an automotive theme to it and serve comfort food. They claim to have the original fried chicken recipe from Topsy's Fontaine's Restaurant that used to be on the Dedham/West Roxbury line.
The convenience store near Beckett's is being worked on and must have had some type of construction delay.
Cruisers had a minor fire during construction, the original plan was to be open in December and I think that has moved to March. It will be a good thing to have another in the downtown business district. I wish them good fortune.
Bella Fortuna to both of the new businesses. I look forward to Fontaine's fried chicken, it was the best in the area for many years.

Will Cruisers also import the cool neon waving checken wing that restaurant had. Always fun to drive by as a kid.

[Unregistered]

We did like the chicken waiving us into Fontaine's. There has not been any mention of where the waiving chicken has gone. Probably to the neon sign cemetary. But I am pleased to see another vacant store become occupied and I'm glad it's a restaurant and not another pub. It sounds like a good spot to take the family for some American comfort food and some family fun.

[Unregistered]

Anyone know what's going on with Cruiser's on Main Street restaurant in the former Dick and Jane's General Store location? Doesn't look like there has been much work going on there as of late. Are they still planning on opening?

[Unregistered]

The new library looks like a fire station.

The fire station looks like a Friendlys restaurant.

The police station looks like a town hall.

The town hall looks like an elementary school.

The rec. department (blackburn) looks like a library!

The center "mall" looks like an ugly and poorly maintained conglomeration of old industrial buildings.

[Sparky]

The new library looks like a fire station.

The fire station looks like a Friendlys restaurant.

The police station looks like a town hall.

The town hall looks like an elementary school.

The rec. department (blackburn) looks like a library!

The center "mall" looks like an ugly and poorly maintained conglomeration of old industrial buildings.

LOL. I'll quote this one for truth, but add some commentary...

Walpole is a very nice town, but unfortunately there were some bad decisions made in the early-mid 1980s that continue to plague us to this day. This hodgepodge is one of the results.

History lesson for newcomers:

In the 1970s, the town had a population of around 18,000. There was one high school, two middle schools (East & West Junior High), and six elementary schools (Old Post, Fisher, Bird, Stone, Boyden, and Plimpton). The bulge in the student population peaked in about 1972. The largest graduating class in Walpole history was 1977. By the early 1980's, the student population began to decline steadily.

In 1980, Proposition 2.5 was passed, to be enacted in 1982. Many towns, including Walpole, reacted to this cap in revenue by spending money that would otherwise have been used for ongoing capital improvements. By the mid-1980s, the town was short on cash but long on classroom capacity. In what was perhaps the most short-sighted series of high-impact decisions in the town's history, there was a major reconfiguration of municipal buildings. Bird Elementary school was sold for condominium development. The town offices were moved into Stone Elementary School. The police moved into the former town hall. Plimpton was turned into a multiple use education facility (special ed, etc.); an attempt to sell it in the 1990s was met with resistance, which proved invaluable as it was used as classroom space during the 1998-2001 high school construction project.

Lo and behold, new houses were built in town and the baby boomers had kids of their own, so that by the mid-1990s, a mere 10 years after elimination of 3 middle schools, it became apparent that there would be a new squeeze for classroom space. The new "bulge" would be centered on the Class of 2008, which began kindergarten in 1994. The debate began on how to accommodate this bulge. A ballot question to build a new high school and elementary school was defeated. Following this, a "School Space Needs" committee put out a self-contradicting recommendation that the town build a new elementary school, in spite of the unanimous agreement that the now-cramped and deteriorating high school was the most pressing issue. Their reasoning? It was presumed that the taxpayers wouldn't support the more expensive high school project. So the elementary school project went standalone on the ballot. And failed. Finally, the taxpayers judgement was tested with a high school ballot question. It turns out that the taxpayers knew that's where the money needed to be spent first, so it passed. This was followed a few years later by the availability of the Christian Life Center, which was purchased and renovated to become the Elm Street School. (In contrast, this was one of the town's finest decisions. On relatively short money including 2/3 reimbursement from the state, the town ended up with a virtually new elementary school on 7 acres of land. Amazingly, it too met with much resistance.)

Then, the police/far facilities issues emerged, as did the library, and the senior center. While going 'round and 'round on police/far, the library stepped up and got state funding to secure a new building, and ended up with the corner lot. It seems a much better suited location for police/fire, but my understanding is that the location could not support a basement, which is why a tall library is going in there instead of a police/fire facility.

So, here we are with a hodgepodge. One could argue that it all started with Prop 2.5. This forced towns to either: 1) raise property taxes far beyond 2.5 (e.g. Medfield), 2) greatly increase the commercial tax base and impose upon the rural/rustic nature of the community (e.g. Norwood), or 3) go the piecemeal/hodgepodge route.

So, all these years later, and we still have the same three choices.

[Unregistered]

I was just reading an artical online in regards to the volleyball courts being moved to Adams Farm. The courts were formely in the spot where the new library is currenly being built. Not surprisingly, the idea of the courts being moved to Adams Farm is being met with some resistance.

I don't know if the spot is big enough, but I think the area next to the town pool would be a good spot for a volleyball court. The spot I'm talking about is just beyond the outfield fence of Morgan Field. Just a thought.

[Unregistered]

I read the article also and am stunned that an experienced BOS member asked a question about liability.

Adams Farm is a perfect place for volleyball. Plenty of room. The only folks who will complain will be those
who let their dogs run free and will now will have to put their dogs on leashes. It is the law folks.

[Unregistered]

I was just reading an artical online in regards to the volleyball courts being moved to Adams Farm. The courts were formely in the spot where the new library is currenly being built. Not surprisingly, the idea of the courts being moved to Adams Farm is being met with some resistance.

I don't know if the spot is big enough, but I think the area next to the town pool would be a good spot for a volleyball court. The spot I'm talking about is just beyond the outfield fence of Morgan Field. Just a thought.

Maybe that spot could work. Or how about Bird Park? Or any place up at the high school or in the town forest?

No doubt, the Adams Farm idea will meet with a lot of resistance and controversy.

[Unregistered]

Is that really a surprise? If you do anything at Adams Farm you are likely to upset the 2% of people in this town who actually go there. $7 million dollars for 300+ acres of grass and trees. Instead of opportunities to use all that space to benefit the town it is treated like a sacred cow. Of course, cows wouldn't be allowed there either.

[Unregistered]

I still say the Farm should be converted to one major soccer field on one side and parking on the other. The front, as we all know, can be leveled very easily to accomodate any type of playing area. Volleyball courts do not consume a lot of space ,but anyhting up there other than grass, would be just perfect. Let's utilized some of this space we all paid for.

[Unregistered]

Is that really a surprise? If you do anything at Adams Farm you are likely to upset the 2% of people in this town who actually go there. $7 million dollars for 300+ acres of grass and trees. Instead of opportunities to use all that space to benefit the town it is treated like a sacred cow. Of course, cows wouldn't be allowed there either.

Every Field problem could be solved if we build on Adams Farm. We will never ever have a shortage of fields again.

[Unregistered]

Every Field problem could be solved if we build on Adams Farm. We will never ever have a shortage of fields again.

Would you be looking at turf or grass? In any event who would maintain them?

[Unregistered]

...it will never happen. I have no idea what the size of the area that fronts North St. is, but I imagine you could put a couple of fields of some sort in that area alone, and leave all the wooded area and paths for everyone else to use. I don't know that playing field shortage is really an issue right now, other than the absence of the volleyball court, which should be relocated somewhere.

On another note, the field behind town hall looks great. The baseball/softball field was nicely excavated, and it was a pleasant April vacation not having to look at the carnival every time you went downtown.

[Unregistered]

There absolutely should be playing fields on Adam's Farm. I am appalled at the folks from Adam's Farm, and their elitist, private club attitude withOUR land. Sell it or put in fields.

[Unregistered]

I understand they are going to move the volley ball courts there. I have never been to a farm with volley ball courts especially one with sand. I think we are moving into the wrong direction. If the area they are currently in is a problem why don't they remove more of the trees in the playing area and put up a fence? I believe the aggy mowes the land for free at Adams farm for the hay. They use one side for hay bails for their horses and the other side is useless land. I personally think they should make into a workable farm, grow apples, pumpkins etc. Look at Peabody for example. Purchased farm land many ,many years ago and made it into a great workable farm. Its a farm that was the purpose for the land many years ago. In Peabody, there are no fields on the land just farm animals, apple cider donuts (delicious) and fruit and pumpkins one can pick. I actually have a plot at Adams farm but personally, I rather see it be a true working farm just like the one in Peabody. I bet more young and old would then visit the farm. We have a great piece of land that is definitely not going to be used the way it should be, a farm. You start letting volleyball courts in, what is next a baseball field/football fields???? Also, the town very rarely removes trash from the farm since the barrels most of the time are overflowing. I have been there on daily basis and there are about 15-20 cars daily in the summer at night. Cars constantly coming in and out. I cannot believe there is no other location for the volley ball courts. I have nothing against volleyball but it does not fit the atmostphere of a farm. I cannot believe I agree with Snuffer on this one.

[Unregistered]

I understand they are going to move the volley ball courts there. I have never been to a farm with volley ball courts especially one with sand. I think we are moving into the wrong direction. If the area they are currently in is a problem why don't they remove more of the trees in the playing area and put up a fence? I believe the aggy mowes the land for free at Adams farm for the hay. They use one side for hay bails for their horses and the other side is useless land. I personally think they should make into a workable farm, grow apples, pumpkins etc. Look at Peabody for example. Purchased farm land many ,many years ago and made it into a great workable farm. Its a farm that was the purpose for the land many years ago. In Peabody, there are no fields on the land just farm animals, apple cider donuts (delicious) and fruit and pumpkins one can pick. I actually have a plot at Adams farm but personally, I rather see it be a true working farm just like the one in Peabody. I bet more young and old would then visit the farm. We have a great piece of land that is definitely not going to be used the way it should be, a farm. You start letting volleyball courts in, what is next a baseball field/football fields???? Also, the town very rarely removes trash from the farm since the barrels most of the time are overflowing. I have been there on daily basis and there are about 15-20 cars daily in the summer at night. Cars constantly coming in and out. I cannot believe there is no other location for the volley ball courts. I have nothing against volleyball but it does not fit the atmostphere of a farm. I cannot believe I agree with Snuffer on this one.

Why must these be mutually exclusive ideas? As I understand it, the courts will be located in the front portion/picnic area of Adams Farm and are relatively small in size, even compared to just that front portion near the entrance - that leaves plenty of room to create a workable farm (if that is what people want), and it doesn't impact the hundreds and hundreds of acres throughout Adams Farm. I certainly don't want to pave paradise and put up a parking lot, but the idea of what’s appropriate for a “farm” must be taken with a grain of salt these days - most farms did not have butterfly gardens, wouldn't have had horseback riding, and so on, but I wouldn’t say those activities don’t belong at Adams Farm.

Also, there is a difference between sand courts and fields for an organized league, particularly grass fields that require irrigation, maintenance, etc. I would hope that both the BOS and AFC would appreciate this difference when listening to future proposals.

[Unregistered]

I understand they are going to move the volley ball courts there. I have never been to a farm with volley ball courts especially one with sand. I think we are moving into the wrong direction. If the area they are currently in is a problem why don't they remove more of the trees in the playing area and put up a fence? I believe the aggy mowes the land for free at Adams farm for the hay. They use one side for hay bails for their horses and the other side is useless land. I personally think they should make into a workable farm, grow apples, pumpkins etc. Look at Peabody for example. Purchased farm land many ,many years ago and made it into a great workable farm. Its a farm that was the purpose for the land many years ago. In Peabody, there are no fields on the land just farm animals, apple cider donuts (delicious) and fruit and pumpkins one can pick. I actually have a plot at Adams farm but personally, I rather see it be a true working farm just like the one in Peabody. I bet more young and old would then visit the farm. We have a great piece of land that is definitely not going to be used the way it should be, a farm. You start letting volleyball courts in, what is next a baseball field/football fields???? Also, the town very rarely removes trash from the farm since the barrels most of the time are overflowing. I have been there on daily basis and there are about 15-20 cars daily in the summer at night. Cars constantly coming in and out. I cannot believe there is no other location for the volley ball courts. I have nothing against volleyball but it does not fit the atmostphere of a farm. I cannot believe I agree with Snuffer on this one.

It is land owned by the public, and it should be used for uses desired by the public. The space should invite young and old for a variety of outdoor uses. There is MORE THAN ENOUGH room for walking trails, butterfly gardens, livestock (though I think the neighborhood protectors of the space will want NOTHING to do with pigs and cows...but it sure gives me a chuckle to think about it!), and YES.... PLAYING FIELDS!

I have to chuckle at your comments,... m"What's next football and baseball fields"! OH THE HORROR! Yes. Children playing sports. My tax dollars at work. I voted for it, and I want to use it. As it stands now, Adams Farm is a private club for local neighbors.

Adams Farm is NOT reoresentative of millions of dollars of every residents tax money at use. I would like ro see that change.

[Unregistered]

Ok there are veggie gardens and a butterfly garden but the bulk of the property is woods where
many dogs roam and poop. Adams Farm is land that the taxpayers own and the taxpayers should be able
to use it for purposes such as volleyball.

However it is not a "farm".

[Unregistered]

Agree with VB courts on AF. Suggest put down by the barn.

[Unregistered]

There is a petition circulating around walpole that will be presented to the selectmen which states
"volleyball not be an allowed activity at Adams Farm", supposedly the courts will "mar the beauty of
Adams Farm". Dear Lord! We spend our money to buy the land and now the elite north walpoleans are
telling us we can't use it! I hope the selectmen have a backbone and do what is right for the town and
not just the folks that want Adams Farm to remain their private dog park.

[Unregistered]

Does it matter to anyone that the town approved and spent money on the downtown site ?
Does it matter to anyone that the downtown site can accomodate 2 courts, has parking and bathroom facilities?
Does it matter to anyone that the "preservation" of open space means no heavy recreational activity?

[Unregistered]

Does it matter to anyone that the town approved and spent money on the downtown site ?
Does it matter to anyone that the downtown site can accomodate 2 courts, has parking and bathroom facilities?
Does it matter to anyone that the "preservation" of open space means no heavy recreational activity?

With petitions against using the site and posts like this I am ready to solve the adams farm problem.
Lets sell it. Commercial use, maybe an office park.

I am truly sick and tired of being told that nothing can be done there. The "supporters" of no use on adams farm need to realize they are driving a wedge in town and if there can be no volley ball and no fields many are going to lean toward just unloading this white elephant.

[Unregistered]

Does it matter to anyone that the town approved and spent money on the downtown site ?
Does it matter to anyone that the downtown site can accomodate 2 courts, has parking and bathroom facilities?
Does it matter to anyone that the "preservation" of open space means no heavy recreational activity?

Does it matter that the town also approved these courts at Adams Farm?

Does it matter that there is far more parking at Adams Farm than there is downtown? What about all the cars there on "Field Day"? Just how many people do you expect for the occasional volleyball match?

Does it matter that the open space is preserved much more in a confined 100x100 ft area than it is by horses and mountain bikes tearing through the trails disturbing the very nature you are trying to "preserve"?

My recommendation would be to pick your battles and let minor changes like this, which will have no major impact on Adams Farm, go. If not, all the "friends" with their "we own it you don't" mentality are going to soon find themselves on the wrong end of the debate on what we should really be doing with Adams Farm.

[Unregistered]

Does it matter that the town also approved these courts at Adams Farm?

Does it matter that there is far more parking at Adams Farm than there is downtown? What about all the cars there on "Field Day"? Just how many people do you expect for the occasional volleyball match?

Does it matter that the open space is preserved much more in a confined 100x100 ft area than it is by horses and mountain bikes tearing through the trails disturbing the very nature you are trying to "preserve"?

My recommendation would be to pick your battles and let minor changes like this, which will have no major impact on Adams Farm, go. If not, all the "friends" with their "we own it you don't" mentality are going to soon find themselves on the wrong end of the debate on what we should really be doing with Adams Farm.

Indeed. The folks of North Walpole have the deepest pockets in town, and needing their places to ride their horses only impacts very few. There are legitimate traffic reasons why opening up Adams Farm to numerous playing fields would potentially be problematic. Both from Fisher Street and through North Street access.

But the volleyball courts will get light, only occasional use as opposed to nightly access by youth and adult sports teams if there were a full athletic complex on the site. The objections seem to be in place simply because those objecting enjoy it.

[Unregistered]

Indeed. The folks of North Walpole have the deepest pockets in town, and needing their places to ride their horses only impacts very few. There are legitimate traffic reasons why opening up Adams Farm to numerous playing fields would potentially be problematic. Both from Fisher Street and through North Street access.

But the volleyball courts will get light, only occasional use as opposed to nightly access by youth and adult sports teams if there were a full athletic complex on the site. The objections seem to be in place simply because those objecting enjoy it.

I don't buy the traffic issue. Fisher Street is already heavily travelled, and is a major thoroughfare to 109 and on to Route 128. Fields will be used predominantly in the evening and on weekends, after the "to and from work" traffic. Every road in this town is residential. Common Street. Route 27. Route 1A. Winter Street. These street are all expected to support truck traffic and major business developement. North and Fisher Street can do their share by supporting some soccer moms. If is is such a problem to have people visiting our town owned land, then we should not have bought it. If the elite supporters of Adams Farm don't want the masses visiting the land they own, then let's sell it.

I smell an office park! Rifght up 109 to 128. Prime land. Prime sale price. I am certain we can fund a police station, senior center, fields, and anything else we want if we sell. After all, there are only a very few abutters.

[Unregistered]

I don't buy the traffic issue. Fisher Street is already heavily travelled, and is a major thoroughfare to 109 and on to Route 128. Fields will be used predominantly in the evening and on weekends, after the "to and from work" traffic. Every road in this town is residential. Common Street. Route 27. Route 1A. Winter Street. These street are all expected to support truck traffic and major business developement. North and Fisher Street can do their share by supporting some soccer moms. If is is such a problem to have people visiting our town owned land, then we should not have bought it. If the elite supporters of Adams Farm don't want the masses visiting the land they own, then let's sell it.

I smell an office park! Rifght up 109 to 128. Prime land. Prime sale price. I am certain we can fund a police station, senior center, fields, and anything else we want if we sell. After all, there are only a very few abutters.

And based on the story in today's Walpole Times, the BOS seems to be caving because the overzealous preservationists refused to cooperate with the volleyballers and give them a location on the farm to use. I see no purpose in the Adams Farm Committee, other than to stroke the egos of the individuals involved. The ConCom committee reviewed this on their own just for the heck of it? No, they are setting up some imaginary defense to someone daring to want to play volleyball a few times a year.

I'll say though that I'm not sure why the town is making such an effort to find a volleyball court, seems like a very limited use item to me that is taking up far more time than it should. Does every town need dedicated volleyball court space? Is this a pressing issue?

Just give her the spot at Adams Farm, give her a key (because you know the preservationists will take it upon themselves to unilaterally change the locks) and be done with it.

[Unregistered]

And based on the story in today's Walpole Times, the BOS seems to be caving because the overzealous preservationists refused to cooperate with the volleyballers and give them a location on the farm to use. I see no purpose in the Adams Farm Committee, other than to stroke the egos of the individuals involved. The ConCom committee reviewed this on their own just for the heck of it? No, they are setting up some imaginary defense to someone daring to want to play volleyball a few times a year.

I'll say though that I'm not sure why the town is making such an effort to find a volleyball court, seems like a very limited use item to me that is taking up far more time than it should. Does every town need dedicated volleyball court space? Is this a pressing issue?

Just give her the spot at Adams Farm, give her a key (because you know the preservationists will take it upon themselves to unilaterally change the locks) and be done with it.

Note to the Adams Farm Committee...YOU DO NOT OWN ADAMS FARM !!!! When you can explain to me how mountain bikes fit a farm setting and how that is a more "passive" activity than volleyball then you can say that volleyball courts do not belong there. I have had it with the North Walpole elitest attitude towards Adam's Farm. This town is sitting on $72 million dollars worth of land (at $200k an acre) so that these people can tend to their horses ??? It is time to sell.

[Unregistered]

Drove through the center tonight on my way home, only two folks out. I will skip this election so I wont blame my self for a bad choice

[Unregistered]

Drove through the center tonight on my way home, only two folks out. I will skip this election so I wont blame my self for a bad choice

You'll be the first to whimper and moan after the election about how screwed up things are, how high your taxes are. Fine, stay home in your mother's basement, and enjoy yourself.

[Unregistered]

Volleyball courts are not enough. I won't be happy until I see kids playing lacrosse, soccer softball and baseball on some of those wasted acres of land that all of us paid for.

[Unregistered]

Maybe they should tear down the old library and put the volley ball courts there. What else are they going to do with the land?

[Unregistered]

Adams farm is having an open house on June 12. My volleyball and i plan to attend.

[Unregistered]

Adams farm is having an open house on June 12. My volleyball and i plan to attend.

GREAT IDEA !!!! I think we should take it a step further and people should show up with footballs, baseballs and mitts, and soccer balls as well. Even with the Field Day there is plenty of space to play.

[Unregistered]

Volleyball courts are not enough. I won't be happy until I see kids playing lacrosse, soccer softball and baseball on some of those wasted acres of land that all of us paid for.

Just what I am afraid of. First it's volleyball, then everything else, and there goes the original concept of Adams Farm as a peaceful, pristine, pastoral area.

That camel never will be happy with just his nose in the tent.

[Unregistered]

Just what I am afraid of. First it's volleyball, then everything else, and there goes the original concept of Adams Farm as a peaceful, pristine, pastoral area.

That camel never will be happy with just his nose in the tent.

The original concept of Adams Farm was as a working farm. The "peaceful, pristine, pastoral area" is a creation of people who only want it to be used for things they enjoy. The result of this is that 95% of town residents never care to use it at all. Don't ride a horse, hunt foxes, snowshoe or garden? Sorry, Adams Farm isn't for you and your family.

[Unregistered]

Just what I am afraid of. First it's volleyball, then everything else, and there goes the original concept of Adams Farm as a peaceful, pristine, pastoral area.

That camel never will be happy with just his nose in the tent.

Actually the original concept of Adams Farm was to stop development. The infamous "strategic purchase". Mission accomplished. It has morphed into this concept of a peaceful, pristine, pastoral area by a small group of unelected overseers (Adams Farm Committee) and North Walpolers who seem to think they own it.

Adams Farm has served it's purpose of stopping developers from building homes on it. Now it is time to expand its purpose to solving other town needs.

[Unregistered]

Just what I am afraid of. First it's volleyball, then everything else, and there goes the original concept of Adams Farm as a peaceful, pristine, pastoral area.

That camel never will be happy with just his nose in the tent.

Who's "original concept" was pastoral land? I voted yes to stop houses from being built. I have no problem with playing fields, in fact I think it is a great use of "open space" that we ALL won... I would rather a bcamel in the tent than a stick in the mud:)

[Unregistered]

The farm should be put to better use...for as much land as we have their, that is off the tax rolls we need to start making better use of these assets. I can't understand how it takes so much work to get anything done in this Town. The poor Volleyball people have been placed in the same spin cycle as those who never want anything done.

[Unregistered]

For those who insist that Adams Farm cannot be the home of athletic fields, check out Oak Grove Farm in Millis, Pequitside Farm in Canton and Elm Bank in Wellesley. All offer beautiful, pastoral settings yet also contain soccer fields. Thanks to the fight put up by the Friends of Adams Farm, many people involved in youth sports in our town are waking up to the fact that there is really no good reason why that space isn't being used for sports. There are youth lacrosse teams that play all of their games away because there aren't enough fields in Walpole to host home games. That's shameful. Like it or not, the day is coming when Adams Farm will be full of kids playing sports.

[Unregistered]

I personally would like to see Adams Farm stay in its current state. Now before you rip my head off for having just written that, I'd like to add that I'm not the only ball game in town. Rather, I am a proud Walpole resident willing to put aside my personal preferences for the greater good of the town. So, I would like to see sections of Adams Farm designated for playing fields because there is a need for that in town. Why deny our kids these playing fields for the sports that they play? I say, concede the front of Adams Farm for playing fields. There's plenty of "natural space" behind the barn. You could, in fact, hike for miles and miles back there. Why not have the best of both worlds for our residents -- ample hiking space for those that enjoy nature, and playing fields to benefit the youth in Walpole? We need to come together to decide what's best for the town, not the agendas of certain sectors. Am I wrong?

[Unregistered]

I personally would like to see Adams Farm stay in its current state. Now before you rip my head off for having just written that, I'd like to add that I'm not the only ball game in town. Rather, I am a proud Walpole resident willing to put aside my personal preferences for the greater good of the town. So, I would like to see sections of Adams Farm designated for playing fields because there is a need for that in town. Why deny our kids these playing fields for the sports that they play? I say, concede the front of Adams Farm for playing fields. There's plenty of "natural space" behind the barn. You could, in fact, hike for miles and miles back there. Why not have the best of both worlds for our residents -- ample hiking space for those that enjoy nature, and playing fields to benefit the youth in Walpole? We need to come together to decide what's best for the town, not the agendas of certain sectors. Am I wrong?

Well said! A little something for everyone. I appreciate your spirit of compromise, and your compassion for those who are not you:) ... there is yet hope for the "friendly town", when people are able to find a middle ground. I do support playing fields up there, but I also support some land being preserved in it's natual state.

[Unregistered]

I personally would like to see Adams Farm stay in its current state. Now before you rip my head off for having just written that, I'd like to add that I'm not the only ball game in town. Rather, I am a proud Walpole resident willing to put aside my personal preferences for the greater good of the town. So, I would like to see sections of Adams Farm designated for playing fields because there is a need for that in town. Why deny our kids these playing fields for the sports that they play? I say, concede the front of Adams Farm for playing fields. There's plenty of "natural space" behind the barn. You could, in fact, hike for miles and miles back there. Why not have the best of both worlds for our residents -- ample hiking space for those that enjoy nature, and playing fields to benefit the youth in Walpole? We need to come together to decide what's best for the town, not the agendas of certain sectors. Am I wrong?

The grass from the front fields at Adams Farm is harvested and used at the Norfolk County Agricultural school as feed for the animals. As a real townie, we can understand what "empty" fields can be used for in an agricultural setting. For those who don't have that memory in their systems, they can't. The kids at the Aggie benefit from that feed....its not just a town thing, its county-wide.

This post is really what is making Adams Farm preservationists worry: If you put up a volley ball court, you end up letting in the rest of the crowd who want "playing fields". I hope the Board of Selectmen have the courage to stand up and say no on this one.

[Unregistered]

The grass from the front fields at Adams Farm is harvested and used at the Norfolk County Agricultural school as feed for the animals. As a real townie, we can understand what "empty" fields can be used for in an agricultural setting. For those who don't have that memory in their systems, they can't. The kids at the Aggie benefit from that feed....its not just a town thing, its county-wide.

This post is really what is making Adams Farm preservationists worry: If you put up a volley ball court, you end up letting in the rest of the crowd who want "playing fields". I hope the Board of Selectmen have the courage to stand up and say no on this one.

On Tuesday June 14th your "new" selectman will get a chance to vote on the Adams Farm vs Morgan field volleyball . My town hall folks tell me that Morgan is just fine and will add to the downtown campus concept.Watch on Tuesday eve around 8 ish

[Unregistered]

The grass from the front fields at Adams Farm is harvested and used at the Norfolk County Agricultural school as feed for the animals. As a real townie, we can understand what "empty" fields can be used for in an agricultural setting. For those who don't have that memory in their systems, they can't. The kids at the Aggie benefit from that feed....its not just a town thing, its county-wide.

This post is really what is making Adams Farm preservationists worry: If you put up a volley ball court, you end up letting in the rest of the crowd who want "playing fields". I hope the Board of Selectmen have the courage to stand up and say no on this one.

This post is really what is making non-Adams Farm preservationists mad. Once again to benefit a small population of the town (500 students at the Aggie) no one is allowed to touch the hallowed ground of Adams Farm. I think the animals could survive without the grass on a 100x100 ft strip of land.

As for other fields let's weigh the cost of feed at the Aggie vs. buying land (4.7 million??) and developing ballfields elsewhere in town.

[Unregistered]

The grass from the front fields at Adams Farm is harvested and used at the Norfolk County Agricultural school as feed for the animals. As a real townie, we can understand what "empty" fields can be used for in an agricultural setting. For those who don't have that memory in their systems, they can't. The kids at the Aggie benefit from that feed....its not just a town thing, its county-wide.

This post is really what is making Adams Farm preservationists worry: If you put up a volley ball court, you end up letting in the rest of the crowd who want "playing fields". I hope the Board of Selectmen have the courage to stand up and say no on this one.

The fact that some including this poster want to deny general use of Adams farm means when the day comes, which it will, to decide what to do with the farm there will not be widespread support for it. The arrogance of the self appointed saviors of the farm is having the opposite effect. Many are growing tired of owning it.

Sad to see Adams farm become a devisive issue but the saviors of the pristine farm will end up being the death of the farm.

[Unregistered]

The fact that some including this poster want to deny general use of Adams farm means when the day comes, which it will, to decide what to do with the farm there will not be widespread support for it. The arrogance of the self appointed saviors of the farm is having the opposite effect. Many are growing tired of owning it.

Sad to see Adams farm become a devisive issue but the saviors of the pristine farm will end up being the death of the farm.

What a nice thing to say. You really are an inspiration to anyone who wants to support any nature-related cause, as long as it doesn't involve athletics. Thats how I see this: Jocks vs. Tree Huggers. Say it publicly in the local media with your name on it, I dare you.

[Unregistered]

What a nice thing to say. You really are an inspiration to anyone who wants to support any nature-related cause, as long as it doesn't involve athletics. Thats how I see this: Jocks vs. Tree Huggers. Say it publicly in the local media with your name on it, I dare you.

Really, really, I triple dog dare you.

[Unregistered]

When it ( the land) is all gone , buy a ticket to see the 1973 movie Soylent Green. In today's I want it now culture it is very difficult for the children who were raised to get everything they asked for ( demanded ) to change their habits.
We march ever so closer to Soylent Green than we do to conservation / preservation

[Unregistered]

There is plenty of Norfolk County Agricultural school land that can be harvested for feed for animals. The Adams Farm land is owned by the Town people, not the select few. We all paid for it. It is important to understand that some level of compromise is needed in order to provide volleyball courts on those fields as well as preserving the land behind the proposed courts.

[Unregistered]

What a nice thing to say. You really are an inspiration to anyone who wants to support any nature-related cause, as long as it doesn't involve athletics. Thats how I see this: Jocks vs. Tree Huggers. Say it publicly in the local media with your name on it, I dare you.

This really isn't "tree huggers" versus "jocks", and your angry tone and taunting really give the appearance of hysteria, which may be why you seem to lack an understanding of the real issue.

The issue, is the use and control of publically owned land. Adams Farm is owned by the public. And as such, the public wants a say in how the property is to be used. The Adams Farm Committee appears to be out of step with the general public. Worse yet, by outright refusal to allow public access and use of this land, they appear not only devisive, but they also seem to be persuing their own personal agenda for publically owned land.

More now than ever, Adams Farm appears to be the greatest duping yet of the Walpole general public. Million of $$$ of taxpayer money has been spent to preserve the "view" of a few neighbors. Millions of $$$ of public money has been spent to allow the development of a private club. Millions of $$$ of all of our money has been spent, so that a group of self appointed owners can tell us that our "crowd" is not welcome.

The elite and condescending tone that I read in some of the posts made by those supporting the "preservation" of Adam's Farm, really is suprising. And it really is the truest indicator of what the underlying problem is here.

[Unregistered]

This really isn't "tree huggers" versus "jocks", and your angry tone and taunting really give the appearance of hysteria, which may be why you seem to lack an understanding of the real issue.

The issue, is the use and control of publically owned land. Adams Farm is owned by the public. And as such, the public wants a say in how the property is to be used. The Adams Farm Committee appears to be out of step with the general public. Worse yet, by outright refusal to allow public access and use of this land, they appear not only devisive, but they also seem to be persuing their own personal agenda for publically owned land.

More now than ever, Adams Farm appears to be the greatest duping yet of the Walpole general public. Million of $$$ of taxpayer money has been spent to preserve the "view" of a few neighbors. Millions of $$$ of public money has been spent to allow the development of a private club. Millions of $$$ of all of our money has been spent, so that a group of self appointed owners can tell us that our "crowd" is not welcome.

The elite and condescending tone that I read in some of the posts made by those supporting the "preservation" of Adam's Farm, really is suprising. And it really is the truest indicator of what the underlying problem is here.

I was at adams farm today, checking out the public access gardens. The area has increased at least 4 times its original space in two years. Your hatefulness is showing. The gardens are publicly accessible....even the Epiphany Church community has a garden over there. Whats the gripe? Not into gardening? Hate the quiet peacefulness of a preserved piece of land so close to boston? I really want to know.

[Unregistered]

I was at adams farm today, checking out the public access gardens. The area has increased at least 4 times its original space in two years. Your hatefulness is showing. The gardens are publicly accessible....even the Epiphany Church community has a garden over there. Whats the gripe? Not into gardening? Hate the quiet peacefulness of a preserved piece of land so close to boston? I really want to know.

No hatefullness from me, just my honest opinion. I have no problem with gardens, No problem with fox hunts. No problem with mountain biking. No problem with butterfly gardens. No problem with playing fields. We (and I do mean WE) own hundreds of acres up there. There is plenty of room for everybody.

A few community garden plots are great. But I already have a garden in my own backyard. Driving around town to garden is really pretty silly for most of us. Making OUR land up at Adams Farm useful, accessible, and productive for the outdoor enjoyment of the masses is really what is important.

The masses paid for the land, and the masses should be able to pilgrimage there any time they wish. Nothing hateful at all about wanting as many people as possible to enjoy OUR open space and OUR purchase. What does come across as hateful though, is your disdain for the idea that we all would like to use our land. I have no problem with your ideas for recreation and enjoying the outdoors. It is too bad you have such a problem with mine. No matter,... "this land is your land, this land is my land....."

... and there is plenty to go around:)

[Unregistered]

The more I read and hear the arguments against allowing volleyball courts and playing fields at Adams Farm the more I'm convinced that playing fields make more sense for the front field than its current (non)use. You can't honestly think that the residents of Walpole whose tax dollars purchased the land care one iota about harvesting hay for the Aggie. Community gardens, nature trails and soccer fields can easily co-exist.
It's time for one of the youth sports groups to step up and request the BOS to permit them to use the front field.
From what I've been told it is a very small minority who would fight this. Meanwhile, there are hundreds of families who would benefit from having new fields in town.

[Unregistered]

I have a simple question that I genuinely don't know the answer to. Can I take a group of kids/friends up to Adams farm and play a game of frisbee, or touch football or wiffle ball or something like people do at Bird Park?

Or will someone try to kick me out or call the police or something?

[Sparky]

Both sides have reasonable arguments (though you can put me in the "undisturbed natural beauty" camp). Maybe the real issue is the process.

It seems that the BOS granted permission for volleyball behind Morgan Field. Then it was determined that the space was inappropriate. This was followed by a request to use Adams Farm. This was granted. Then a complaint came from the Adams Farm Committee. So the permission was rescinded. Did the BOS not consult the committee before making the decision?

These decisions in general seem to be made without much investigation. Someone goes before the BOS to request something and it gets granted; then someone else complains and it gets overturned. We seem to have a process issue.

With regards to fields, has any sports league formally requested permission to use Adams Farm? With the soccer fields at Endean, and turf on the high school field, and the new field at Fisher, do we still have a shortfall of field space? Does the controversy only exist on this forum? It costs money to "make" and then maintain a sports field; does it make more sense to put turf behind Johnson Middle School, or the lower field at the High School? Aren't those two existing fields vastly underutilized?

[Unregistered]

I have a simple question that I genuinely don't know the answer to. Can I take a group of kids/friends up to Adams farm and play a game of frisbee, or touch football or wiffle ball or something like people do at Bird Park?

Or will someone try to kick me out or call the police or something?

You can do that and more....fly a kite, even roll in the hay. (thats an old tradition here in Walpole going back about 5000 years :))

but just don't play volleyball, ok?

[Unregistered]

Both sides have reasonable arguments (though you can put me in the "undisturbed natural beauty" camp). Maybe the real issue is the process.

It seems that the BOS granted permission for volleyball behind Morgan Field. Then it was determined that the space was inappropriate. This was followed by a request to use Adams Farm. This was granted. Then a complaint came from the Adams Farm Committee. So the permission was rescinded. Did the BOS not consult the committee before making the decision?

These decisions in general seem to be made without much investigation. Someone goes before the BOS to request something and it gets granted; then someone else complains and it gets overturned. We seem to have a process issue.

With regards to fields, has any sports league formally requested permission to use Adams Farm? With the soccer fields at Endean, and turf on the high school field, and the new field at Fisher, do we still have a shortfall of field space? Does the controversy only exist on this forum? It costs money to "make" and then maintain a sports field; does it make more sense to put turf behind Johnson Middle School, or the lower field at the High School? Aren't those two existing fields vastly underutilized?

Regarding the fields, yes there is a shortage. The soccer fields on Mylod are owned by the soccer program and lacrosse has forced their way onto them because they tore up the upper field at the high school after it was redone and they were allowed to use it before it was ready and don't have anywhere to play. And even then, there isn't enough field space for all the groups who want to use it, let alone adult groups or whatnot.

Soccer and lacrosse especially face a shortage of full sized fields. I'm not sure either of the spaces you reference can fit one of those without sacrificing baseball/softball space. You could easily build 3 new full sized fields in town and they'd be used.

[Unregistered]

Regarding the fields, yes there is a shortage. The soccer fields on Mylod are owned by the soccer program and lacrosse has forced their way onto them because they tore up the upper field at the high school after it was redone and they were allowed to use it before it was ready and don't have anywhere to play. And even then, there isn't enough field space for all the groups who want to use it, let alone adult groups or whatnot.

Soccer and lacrosse especially face a shortage of full sized fields. I'm not sure either of the spaces you reference can fit one of those without sacrificing baseball/softball space. You could easily build 3 new full sized fields in town and they'd be used.

Take the 55 acres on Robbins road , along with the fields Master Plan, and get to work in developing a program that will satisfy all teams / sports for decades to come. The good news for the neighbors will be no police station just children laughter.

[Unregistered]

Take the 55 acres on Robbins road , along with the fields Master Plan, and get to work in developing a program that will satisfy all teams / sports for decades to come. The good news for the neighbors will be no police station just children laughter.

You know what,... I am sick of the "go somewhere else" mentality when it comes to Adams Farm. Adams Farm is where I want my fields. It is already cleared and levelled. So I have a suggestion to you,... get to work developing a tolerance for all of us using our land. The good news is, you will get to see all of the people who own the land having access to it. I am sure the folks surrounding the farm will enjoy the sounds of childrens laughter as well. After all, we ALL own that land. That land is for ALL of us to use. ^ neighbors getting to decide what goes on there is a little insulting to the other 20,000 of us.

[Unregistered]

Interesting article on re-use of the library. Seems that senior housing is not an option,.. and I am suprised that Selectmen seem to be shying away from selling what is likely a lucrative parcel....

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/news/x539090024/Housing-out-for-old-library-re-use-ideas#axzz1Q2bdWThp

Quoted from the article: "The town could conceivably sell the building and land as is to a developer, but Selectman Mike Berry said he’d be wary to do so since someone could then put something there that disrupts the residential setting of the historic Common Street and Lewis Avenue neighborhoods."

This is truely a downtown parcel, unlike Walpole Woodworkers. There are currently 2 businesses on the adjacent corners. So many of the folks in that neighborhood have been very vocal about the need for more business revenue in town, as well as many of our current selectmen. Some nicely scaled restaurant or retail store would be perfect for that spot. I cannot imagine the folks in the neighborhood would find it any different than the library, and it would provide much needed revenue.

[Unregistered]

All this arguing over open space. I personally love Adams Farm and enjoy running there, hiking, and occasional mountain biking. Sure, we could sell it and have it all developed. Then we will become like Norwood and have no open land, just houses and commercial buildings.

All parks, whether they are local, state, or national, come under pressure to open up their land to development. There seems to be a need by many to find ways to make this land "useful". As a result, open space is nibbled away constantly and soon we wonder where it all went. Sure, many in Walpole will never go to Adams Farm. I don't use the schools or library, so should we sell those too since I and many others don't benefit?

I like to play volleyball, but I don't think Adams Farm is the right place. Sand courts in the middle of a hay field will look strange and unkempt. Morgan Field area is tight for the courts, but the grass is mowed and the land is level. Some netting and it would have been fine.

[Unregistered]

All this arguing over open space. I personally love Adams Farm and enjoy running there, hiking, and occasional mountain biking. Sure, we could sell it and have it all developed. Then we will become like Norwood and have no open land, just houses and commercial buildings.

All parks, whether they are local, state, or national, come under pressure to open up their land to development. There seems to be a need by many to find ways to make this land "useful". As a result, open space is nibbled away constantly and soon we wonder where it all went. Sure, many in Walpole will never go to Adams Farm. I don't use the schools or library, so should we sell those too since I and many others don't benefit?

I like to play volleyball, but I don't think Adams Farm is the right place. Sand courts in the middle of a hay field will look strange and unkempt. Morgan Field area is tight for the courts, but the grass is mowed and the land is level. Some netting and it would have been fine.

Since you concerned abou tht courts looking funny in the hay field there is a simple answer. Turn the fields into soccer, baseball and lacrosse fields, the the volley ball courts will blend in. Problem solved.

[Unregistered]

Was it a minimum-dimensions issue? What about approaching Bird Park about this?

[Unregistered]

The whining about volleyball at Adams Farm is getting unbearable. These people need to grow up. In a letter to the editor Mr. Chamberlin now complaining that the "Friends of Adams Farm" were not even consulted on the volleyball project. Last I checked the "friends" are not a town committee and by definition would not need to be consulted.

That being said, has he been under a rock at Adams Farm for the last few months? He wasn't aware these discussions were happening? The Board of Selectmen requested the Adams Farm Commitee (actually is town appointed) work with the volleyball group to find a suitable spot. If the Adams Farm Committee refused to do so or did not keep the "friends" up to speed on the situation that is their issue not the towns.

Can Mr. Chamberlin confirm that the town is spending money to put the volleyball courts at Adams Farm?. Just because you see town trucks and workers doesn't always mean the town is footing the bill. The town is currently assisting with renovating the Elm Street playground, yet the town is not spending a dime because the costs are being covered by the Elm Street PAC.

I know that those rallying against the volleyball courts are afraid of the "slippery slope". I do hope they also understand that the more they complain about 1/4 of 1 acre of all that is owned at Adams Farm the more petty it makes them look and they are likely to see exactly what they do not want when people start turn on their elitist attitudes towards Adams Farm.

My young daughter is always asking me to buy her candy. The more she whines for it the less likely it is that she will get what she wants. I hope the friends and the Adams Farm Committee take a lesson from that.

[Unregistered]

When the BOS asked Walpole residents if we wanted to purchase Adam's Farm there were two main points. The first would stop developers from building more homes. The second would allow it to remain "as is" for all to enjoy in its natural state. I remember reading so many editorials regarding this as wasted land...why doesn't the town build a golf course for example. These potential ideas were never realized because even though golf may be considered "passive use" by some, the BOS said the land would stay unchanged. This was the deal. If you say "yes" to volleyball courts, it opens the doors to other such uses. I have nothing against volleyball. I love to play it! But residents were told if we purchased this land, it would stay untouched. End of story. Why was the BOS allowed to change their original statement? The vote went through to purchase this land with our tax money, only to find out AF can indeed be changed.
I agree that AF is under utilized. My family used it often in past years to go hiking and snowshoeing in the winter. But each time we went it was obvious that people were were using this space to let their dogs poop without picking up afterwards. Even though AF supplied doggie poop bags, the issue got entirely out of hand. Needless to say, we don't use the farm anymore due to this problem. I'm not sure what the answer is , but next time the BOS asks Walpole residents if we want an override to purchase land, they better spell out EXACTLY what the use will be for so we're not in the same situation.

[deaconmike]

I noticed that 'Mangia' on Main Street is named - 'Bianco's'.

What happened?


Mike

[Unregistered]

When the BOS asked Walpole residents if we wanted to purchase Adam's Farm there were two main points. The first would stop developers from building more homes. The second would allow it to remain "as is" for all to enjoy in its natural state. I remember reading so many editorials regarding this as wasted land...why doesn't the town build a golf course for example. These potential ideas were never realized because even though golf may be considered "passive use" by some, the BOS said the land would stay unchanged. This was the deal. If you say "yes" to volleyball courts, it opens the doors to other such uses. I have nothing against volleyball. I love to play it! But residents were told if we purchased this land, it would stay untouched. End of story. Why was the BOS allowed to change their original statement? The vote went through to purchase this land with our tax money, only to find out AF can indeed be changed.
I agree that AF is under utilized. My family used it often in past years to go hiking and snowshoeing in the winter. But each time we went it was obvious that people were were using this space to let their dogs poop without picking up afterwards. Even though AF supplied doggie poop bags, the issue got entirely out of hand. Needless to say, we don't use the farm anymore due to this problem. I'm not sure what the answer is , but next time the BOS asks Walpole residents if we want an override to purchase land, they better spell out EXACTLY what the use will be for so we're not in the same situation.

My observation of Adam's Farm is exactly what you stated that it is WELL under utilized and less a less people are using it. People today do not have the time and luxury to trample through the woods and spend a leisurely day exploring nature. So, why not do something to it that will balance the use and yet create entertainment. This I feel could result by adding other uses of the land, i.e. Volleyball, so that exposure of the farm is seen by more than the chosen few. I personally would like to see soccer fields added, but I guess opting to volleyball is the lesser of activities. Let's make better use of Adam's Farm to more than just a pet toilet and if we can't then just develop it.

[Unregistered]

I noticed that 'Mangia' on Main Street is named - 'Bianco's'.

What happened?


Mike

From what I understand, it's still the same owner, he just changed the name and no longer belongs to the Mangia franchise. They have a little more on the menu. Actually a lot more. Most Mangia(s) have only pizza. They have great sandwiches at Bianco's.

[Unregistered]

So this business in Walpole only lasted 5 months. Anyone have details?

[Unregistered]

So this business in Walpole only lasted 5 months. Anyone have details?

They never had any customers. I live near the center of town, and there were never any cars there, except for the same one everyday that probably belonged to the owner. Too bad because the building certainly looks nice from the outside. No one I know ever even went in there.

Same thing happened to the convenience store that used to be where Gallos was (now DD's). No customers. I think like with nail salons and pizza parlors, Walpole has enough convenience stores.

[Unregistered]

Adam's farm belongs untouched. I've enjoyed walking there for years. Putting volley ball courts or soccer fields there will take away from it's natural excellence. I agree dog owners should pick up after their pet...but that is not going to stop me from enjoying the park, personally i'll deal with this over the trash and commotion created by adding recreation areas. Adams farm is a place to enjoy natural scenery and wild life, leave nature alone.

[Unregistered]

Adam's farm belongs untouched. I've enjoyed walking there for years. Putting volley ball courts or soccer fields there will take away from it's natural excellence. I agree dog owners should pick up after their pet...but that is not going to stop me from enjoying the park, personally i'll deal with this over the trash and commotion created by adding recreation areas. Adams farm is a place to enjoy natural scenery and wild life, leave nature alone.

Glad for your opinion. But the treality is that this is an extremely large tract of land. There is ample room for nature and recreation fields. The taxpayors own the land. They spent $8 mill on it. They can use it how they like. They can even change their mind and sell it. This was an outright purchase, not a deeded gift.

[Unregistered]

They never had any customers. I live near the center of town, and there were never any cars there, except for the same one everyday that probably belonged to the owner. Too bad because the building certainly looks nice from the outside. No one I know ever even went in there.

Same thing happened to the convenience store that used to be where Gallos was (now DD's). No customers. I think like with nail salons and pizza parlors, Walpole has enough convenience stores.

That particular business seemed be very slow getting off the ground in the first place. I believe it was owned by the same group that owns C.Scotts out on Rt1 and Old Post rd.

It's too bad, they did a nice job with that site, but you're right, too many convenience stores and the pizza differentiator wasn't enough to make it unique, because there's enough pizza in Walpole (Leo's, Rico's, First, and Bianco's in that one area).

[Unregistered]

My wife and daughter had a late lunch at the new restaurant downtown, Cruisers on Main, and they loved it. Good to hear of another viable option downtown!

I was surprised to hear that they have a bar, I thought it was an old time burger joint, but I guess it's more than that. I'm looking forward to trying it myself.

[Unregistered]

It now looks like another business is closing its shop ,but in East Walpole. I believe I read "A little Something" has decided to shut down. Why is it that businesses cannot thrive in Walpole? My thought, it's all the surrounding competition from RT1 and Norwood.

[Unregistered]

It now looks like another business is closing its shop ,but in East Walpole. I believe I read "A little Something" has decided to shut down. Why is it that businesses cannot thrive in Walpole? My thought, it's all the surrounding competition from RT1 and Norwood.

You need to read the article. The owners of this business decided to sell after years of 24 hour days. It wasn't that it didn't thrive. Something new is coming in right behind it.