HomeMy WebLinkAbout1977 12-07 Community reaps benefits THE REVIEW Poge 2A Wed., Dec. 7, 1977 THE REVIEW
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Maplewood Heritage Center
1 � Comrnamity reaps benefits 1
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by Pam Thorsen "Environment can add so much to our Funds for supplies ran out before energy
- experiences,"said Bob."There are uses did, Bob explained.
"It's a shame,Charlie died thinking his for this place that haven't even been in- He said a lot of time and effort went into I
glace would be torn down," said Bob vented yet." jobs that don't show,but mean a lot to the I
'Parker, caretaker and director of The kitchen in the home has cupboards upkeep of the home,like all new window
Maplewood Heritage Center. labeled which indicate the sharing sills. (((i
He was referring to Charlie Ostergren principal integrated at the center. BOB AND AMY HAVE TEACHING
who died in 1975. Charlie lived at 2005 A fireplace in the living room boasts a BACKGROUNDS. Their education and
Edgerton all his life in a home built by his "garage sale find"screen.Amy said the experiences are woven into the center as 1
father. That inherited farm is now lady who was selling it was pleased it they share themselves with people. 1
Maplewood Heritage Center. would be used in the center and gave her a From their "brainstorming" some I,
It consists of the ninety year old home "real good deal." things that might happen at the center I
with barn and greenhouse and four acres "Others might want to help, if they include: group retreats, community
adjacent to Edgerton Park in Maplewood. knew of the needs here,"she said. gardens,classes,arts and crafts center. I
The city's original concept was to The main floor rooms are intended for a bazaars, picnics, used book exchange.
purchase the acreage from Charlie with variety of uses by groups or clubs. An group counseling sessions, rap groups. 3
the intent of adding it to the park, ex- office off the dining room,in addition to a day camp,a clothing exchange, food for 1
plained Bob in an interview recently. conventional desk and chair, includes needy center,outdoor dramatics use.This 1
There were no plans for the home or floor pillows for "down-to-earth" jam- is just part of a list the two put together '
barn,he said.Charlie was allowed to live ming. some time ago.Some of these things have I
in the house for ten years after the pur- Part of the second floor of the home is already happened — 140.community 1
chase.He died in 1975 before the ten years living quarters for Bob and Amy.A room garden plots, picnics (community and
elapsed. filled with plants,shelves and shelves of family),classes,group sessions and club {
"New people look at this now with new books, banjo, floor pad and pillows and meetings. ;
eyes,"Bob said referring to progressive desk establishes a hideaway living room Bob and Amy emphasize they need 1
plans for the future of the old Ostergren for the two.A bedroom and hopeful (now community input. The center is for the
farmstead. empty) sewing room fulfills the Parker- community.
Bob and his wife,Amy Woody share the Woody residence. It is available for private parties and
home with the community. They moved Other rooms on the second floor provide family gatherings, Amy said. Just 1
into the two-story colonial in May. flexible alternatives for meetings, group recently a group had their Christmas
Bob, who calls himself the "local sessions or "whatever comes along." Party at the Ostergren place.
native"of the duo,was"born and raised" After climbing a curved stairway to an Bob and Amy envisioned the center
at 1912 McMenemy Rd. He went to attic,one sees big open spaces beckoned over a year ago.It's not only their dream
Edgerton Elementary(now his neighbor) to be used. — it's a community dream, that they
and Ramsey High School. "The possibilities are here,"said Amy. nourish and share.
PLANS FOR MAPLEWOOD Bob pointed with pride at work done on "A large room with a fire in the 1
HERITAGE CENTER are as flexible as curved window frames in attic dormers fireplace, shared by many friendly
the caretakers.Bob and Amy stress the this summer. people; a large grassy lawn shaded by
home is meant to be used for learning and Ten CETA employees spent four spreading trees, where one can walk
growing and most important, for the months roofing, insulating, stripping quietly,or be active with others;a rustic
community. wallpaper and caulking this summer. shed full of activity—crafts, art, space
for moving and creating;an open field for
W ____ running and playing,or having a bazaar; j
a garden for growing flowers and food, 1
working with the earth;a greenhouse for
the same, and for experimenting with j
ideas; a kitchen to add warmth and the
pleasure of nourishment and tasting to all 1
settings; small rooms to meet with
people,to learn and to plan,or to play and
change and grow.A place for youngsters,
a place for oldsters.A place for mothers.
for fathers, for both. A living en-
vironment,to experience and be in for an
hour,or a day,is a beautiful and essential
ingredient to living and learning."
Maplewood Heritage Center has
something for everyone. I think Charlie
would be pleased.
Plaza contest 1
The Maplewood Plaza merchants are
sponsoring a Christmas Window Painting
Contest. The event is open to all area
junior and senior high people.
Prizes will be awarded to the winning
windows.First place will pay Sao,second
$20 and third$10.All entrants must supply i
their own poster paints.
The number of entrants is limited, S;
il
interest yowl g gists should Marlene htnidf at .i
.,.r_ _ X9221. i
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