River Lands Clean-up - A Labor of Love

Scott Garieri and myself would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Community Preservation Committee (CPC), Sturbridge residents, and the members of the REAS Foundation who volunteered their time, effort, and equipment for yesterday's cleanup at the River lands. The tireless efforts of those who were able to assist with the clean-up resulted in 22 truck trips (vehicles donated by the REAS Foundation) and a substantial amount of demolition debris, metal, plastic, and tires (250 tires) being removed.

Specifically, Scott and I extend our gratitude to the following volunteers whose schedules allowed them the opportunity to assist with the project:

Penny Dumas - CPC
Joe Oullette - CPC
Mike Moran - CPC
Kevin Moran
Arnold Wilson
Donna Grehl - Conservation Commission
David Peterkin
Bob Briere
Kelly Emrich
Susan Stebbins
John Stebbins
Joe Ostrengai
Matt Stebbins
Lou Berthiume
Jeannine Creamer - REAS Foundation
Rich Paradise - REAS Foundation
Denise LaChapelle - REAS Foundation
Calvin Montigny - REAS Foundation
Mike Thorpe - REAS Foundation
Maryann Thorpe - REAS Foundation
Emma Thorpe - REAS Foundation
Linda Cocalis, Board of Health - REAS Foundation
Dave Vadenais - REAS Foundation
Dan Matte - REAS Foundation
Jeremy Rines - REAS Foundation
Jeff Tasse - REAS Foundation

Additionally, it is worth noting the equipment that the REAS Foundation brought to bear yesterday:

7 Pick-up Trucks
1 One-ton Dump Truck
1 One-Ton Box Truck
1 Kubota Tractor

As well, we would like to extend our thanks to Chief Ford and the Sturbridge Police Department who have extended an offer of support and help with future efforts. Today, we were visited by Sgt. Mike Blanchard who provided insights into equipment and services, which may be of assistance and value to us in the future. We are fortunate to have the support and assistance of our local law enforcement community.

It was a great pleasure and an honor for Selectman Garieri and myself, along with the REAS Foundation to provide our services to the Town of Sturbridge and the Community Preservation Committee. We thank both for the opportunity to be of service. We also thank the CPC for its tireless efforts in addressing the needs of our Open Space parcels, and for bringing this issue to the attention of the Board of Selectmen.

Again, we extend our deepest appreciation,

Scott Garieri, Selectman - REAS Foundation Chairman of the Board
Thomas R. Creamer, Selectman - REAS Foundation Executive Director