"Marge, Get The Checkbook So I Can Shut Him Up."

Ever get the feeling that you are powerless to invoke change? Whether it be at work, home, or just here in town, sometimes we feel we are in control of our environment, and other times, no matter what we say or do, we can't do squat.

I do have a solution. It's a simple one, but effective. Currently, every city and town in the Commonwealth is under pressure to cut costs, re-consider spending, and put projects on hold. Sturbridge is in better shape than most, but we are also taking a conservative approach to insure that the recession does not hit us harder.

So, do we just hide in the shelters until the "all clear" is sounded?

No, of course not. We can make a positive change, that will having a lasting affect, and mean a great deal having been born in the midst of the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.

Donate $10.00 to Tables on the Common.

I know, I hear it. "What for?", "The kids need lunch money.", "I have bills.", "Times are too tough."

Yes, I hear it, and I feel it, too, but I am not one to let something get the best of me, especially if the end result will be something good for the many here In town. Placing picnic tables on the common is something we can do without dipping into the Town coffers.

And, when they are sitting there on the grass, they will offer a place to go to, and relax, and channel the history around us. A mini-escape. A place where one can pull over and just tune out the rest of the world, stare at the traffic, and sip a coffee, read a paper, have lunch with the kids, or enjoy a concert.

$10.00 can buy some serenity not only for ourselves, but for everyone that uses the Common.

Please donate to Tables on the Common. I challenge all the readers of "Thinking Out Loud" to give what they can. Several of you have, and I thank you, now I'd like to see others step up as well.

You can either use the widget at the top of the page, which is very secure, , or send a donation to me personally at 60 Brookfield Road, Fiskdale 01518.

The deadline for raising funds is June 1st.