Snowplow Crews Ready for Early Storm; Diner Promises Free Coffee for Drivers

The first real storm of the season is expected to roll over the rim Sunday night, and the town's three snowplow drivers say they are as ready as they will ever be.

"Blades are on, chains are in the cab, and I found my good gloves," said Walt Ferris, who has driven the big orange truck up Mill Road for nineteen winters. "Last year I found them in March. So we're ahead."

Public Works spent Thursday afternoon topping off the sand pile behind the old depot and checking the lights on all three trucks. Forecasters are calling for eight to twelve inches up high, with less down along the old highway.

The diner on Main Street has made its own preparations. Starting with the first flake, any snowplow driver who walks in gets free coffee, as many cups as it takes.

"They're out there at four in the morning so the rest of us can get to work," said the morning cook, wiping down the counter. "Least we can do is keep the pot hot. Pie is not free. Pie has never been free."

Holt Hardware reports a steady run on ice melt, snow shovels and windshield scrapers, along with what one clerk described as "a surprising number of people buying a single replacement mitten."

Residents are asked to move cars off Main Street overnight Sunday so crews can clear it curb to curb. The school bus will run on its winter route through December.

Ferris had one more request. "Wave when you see us," he said. "Even if we just buried your driveway. Especially then."