Newsbreak - Highlighting Stories in our town

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Highlighting News Stories for Our Town for the week of December 15, 2003

Newsbreak for Walpole
The Week – Dec. 15
The Year – 2003

End of Year Review

Winter has captured our attention on a daily basis with two storms already interrupting our scheduled events and our planned activities.

The holiday season is also upon us and the weather will certainly affect whatever is in store for us all.

The year 2003 draws down to a close.

What were some of the major events of 2003?

1. Here in Walpole, the advent of huge supermarkets and stores within stores brought competition and a new approach to consumer shopping. The new ‘Big Y’ is a major factor in the mix located in the shopping plaza at the intersection of route 1 and 27. And, the Super Stop and Shop at route 1A draws its own set of customers.

2. In sports, we marveled all summer at the fresh energy that the Red Sox brought to our fans. Despite the season ending loss to the Yankees, the team appears to be in a restructuring mode, and will offer new hope for next year.

3. The New England Patriots have climbed a new plateau as they are headed for the playoffs again and a new chance at glory.

4. The economy continues to be a major issue locally and nationally. The decreased revenue that comes from the state continues to place a burden on local communities in balancing budgets. There appears to be no significant change for 2004.

5. Regarding the worldwide conflict and the continuing crisis in the fight against terrorism, the recent capture of Saddam Hussein has brought new life to the effort. We hope and pray for an eventual end to this violence that shatters the hearts of all.

6. Looking ahead, the development of new homes and new housing will continue to place a burden on the already strained resources in our town. Municipal management will be challenged to find ways to accommodate new demands.

And, as we close the year, we wish all a bountiful holiday and New Year.