December 2020
Dear Rustic Ridge Friends,
Holiday greetings to each of you! We hope and pray that you are keeping well and safe during this Covid year. Being at our beloved Northfield is an endearing and spirit raising image. This note is to inform you of developments which the Rustic Ridge Board has recently discussed.
First, consider participating in making a documentary video about the history and legacies of Rustic Ridge. Carolee Ziegenhagen spoke with Jim Ault, a professional videographer (www.jamesault.com), who also wrote three informative chapters of the lovely picture/history book of Northfield/Mount Herman entitled LIFT THINE EYES, about making a video. A Ridge workshop will be held on June 28-July 3. Opportunities include interviewing, filming, storytelling and editing. Linda and Bob Glover will also help with their expertise. For more information check out the attached sheet, Jim's website and Carolee (carolzieg@gmail.com). Note that Jim is not requiring funding from The Ridge.
Second, the Moody Center is making plans to expand its presence. The town has already approved renovation of Revell and Holton which will become B&Bs with overnight reservations. The old Bookstore will provide office space and an upstairs auditorium to seat 90 people. Moore Cottage will be made into guest rooms. More controversial is a plan to construct a large, 4-story, 24-unit housing complex behind Moore Cottage along Highland Avenue. Some units will be available for purchase. Links to two Greenfield Recorder articles are here and here. This plan will be considered by the Town Planning Board on December 17 at 4:00 pm. I will try to send out the Zoom link the day before or you can access the Northfield Town website (www.northfieldma.gov) and click on the Planning Board. Questions can be sent to the Planning Board by email in advance of the meeting. The Rustic Ridge Board has asked Margie Conner and Lucy Hann Livingston to have special oversight and to communicate on these issues.
Another Moody Center proposal is construction of a for- profit campground along Pierson Avenue which plans to have 27 furnished tents and 12 cabins. This is under litigation.
A recent incident on the Ridge involved a trespasser who parked at a cottage and took an ATV through the trails. This is illegal. The Northfield police recommend that each of us post a NO TRESPASSING sign on our properties to allow for more effective policing. If you have questions, please let me know. (leesa.campbell@woodberry.org)
Optimistically, let's prepare to have the following social events this coming summer: July 4th parade and Lobster Fest on Saturday, July 3; Cottage Crawl on Sunday, August 1; Annual meeting and picnic on Saturday, August 7; Ridge Service on Sunday, August 8. In addition, let's plan to gather for coffees, golf, luncheons, picnics, games, gardening, etc. ! Lots to anticipate!
Many thanks to all who have paid dues. We look forward to receiving dues from the rest of you! Please do so now before the Christmas crush. A payment form is attached. You can pay by check, credit card or PayPal on the RusticRidge.org website.
Be well. Happy holidays!
Leesa H. Campbell
President, Rustic Ridge Association