Now, About My Newspaper

There has been much talk swirling around town about the anticipated sale of Norfolk’s Corner Store, and I want to give everyone a brief update on the progression.
Nearly two month’s ago, I accepted an offer on the store from a group of men that own a similar, successful, business in Winsted.  They have each lived in the area for as long as 14 years, and have previously owned small markets in New York City.
Quite unfortunately, the deal recently fell through. Not because of finances. Not because of permits. They had navigated through various hurdles on their way to realizing their intent of building a full kitchen in the back of the store, setting up seating, and offering a full range of prepared foods, along with the other expected conveniences.
The reason it fell through shines perhaps the brightest light on the struggle facing local business people in Norfolk. The reason it fell through is that they were scared off by their potential customer base. Three separate people from Norfolk – three – actually walked into these potential buyers’ place of business and questioned how they would run the Corner. Specifically, they each asked whether they would still have their newspapers reserved. “Who are these people from Norfolk,” one of them asked me as I shook my head in familiar disbelief. Who, indeed.
If it wasn’t so painful, it might be funny. Some people are so focused on themselves that they are willing put their personal demands forth without thinking through the fact that owning and running a business is a decision. It is not an obligation. The doors can close. And they can also not open. While this contingent is small compared to the broad base of people that want to support a local business, it is clearly enough to make potential entrepreneurs think twice. And that needs to change if Norfolk is actually going to get the things it wants.
-Justin Vagliano

Abuse of Power at the Tower

Holy Cow!! If you’re looking for a new definition of “UGLY,” take an otherwise peaceful walk up to Haystack tower. But, be warned! What you’ll see will make you wish you threw back a few shots before your trek. Atop lovely, historic Haystack Mountain, situated in front of the stone fortress on the east side, sits the ugliest thing I’ve ever laid eyes on! A 12’ high, 6’ wide sign, made with pressure treated posts and bolted onto concrete supports, is placed about 15’ from the tower. Whose brainy idea is this? The thing literally lunges out at you as you round the last gentle curve of the trail, just at the point when you would normally catch your first glimpse of the noble tower. Now, there is no place at the top where you can photograph the tower without this thing ruining the shot, never mind the affront to the historical significance of the place. And as for beauty, well….did I mention UGLY? So, on your next stroll to the top, brace yourselves!
-Chris Hanley