features
‘The Wide Wide Sea’: Captain Cook expands England’s knowledge of the Pacific Islands and the Arctic Circle
by Don Porter In his book “The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact, and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook,” author Hampton Sides paints an interesting picture of Cook, who was renowned for his seamanship, and as a scientist and excellent cartographer (aka: map maker). Highly respected in England, by the Royal […]
Freemasons: A generous organization with a focus on serving the community
by Joan Tucker Some mystique has always surrounded the masons. For me, it began when my husband Tom talked about his father and grandfather being active members for years. My husband recalls a lot of preparation that went into being a member. What I recall is Pop was very proud of his service and levels […]
Faces of Addiction
Season of recovery: A home for the holidays by Tina Cole-Mullins (Editor’s Note: Faces of Addiction is a continuing series about people who experience drug addiction and the difficulty of recovery. By telling their stories, they hope to help others who are struggling and encourage them to seek treatment and healing.) December isn’t just a […]
Superintendent’s Desk: Thank you for supporting the school bond
Dear Stockbridge Community School District, We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for supporting our recent bond initiative. Yourinvestment in our schools means a great deal to us, and we are committed to using theseresources responsibly while meeting the needs of our students and caring for our districtfacilities. Our goal is to address immediate […]
Reading Between the Lines
‘The Frozen River’ is part history and part mystery; a great addition for your ‘to be read’ pile by Mary Jo David I admit to being hesitant when I selected “The Frozen River” as my next new read. I don’t know whether to blame reader apathy on my part or overhyping by book clubs and […]
Staff Spotlight: First grade teacher Corinne Clouse helps her students turn pint-size wins into big wins
by Mary Jo David First grade teacher Corinne Clouse is new to Smith Elementary and new to teaching, but she already feels she’s right where she needs to be. “I love my students at this age. They’re still in love with school and it’s wonderful to see the light in their eyes when they have […]
Bridge to Wellness: A holiday reflection for all, compliments of Charles Dickens
by Sarah Wilczynski As we enter into the holiday season, it’s important to reflect on what’s most important to us, remember all we are thankful for, and spread kindness to all around us. To give space for this reflection, take a moment to read this timeless excerpt from Charles Dickens’ short Story “What Christmas is […]
Dear Gabbie:
“Dear Gabbie” is written with the simple hope of bringing a few smiles to your day and is not meant to replace the advice of professionals… especially your mom! Dear Gabbie: I’m pregnant and strangers think nothing of reaching out and touching my tummy. Is this normal, because it sure gives me the creeps! Dear […]
Active Aging
‘Go places and do things’: Building a good life by Alexa Ten Eyck A loved one frequently shared some simple advice for finding a good life:“Go places and do things.” The idea is gentle but powerful: A good life is not imagined in a single moment; it’s built by new experiences that encourage engagement with […]