What's Going on Inside 107 Main Street?

Annie Bidou knows, and she reports:

Since Clifton Jaeger moved out of the Old Town Hall space, I’ve heard rumblings in Toymakers Café that people are intimidated by the new tenants. No friendly pieces of art in the windows; no signs of who or what dwells within. In fact, it is Michael Klemens the herpetologist and Ken Leabman, his partner, who have settled in.(They're with Michael's son Robert in the photo below.) “We LOVE Falls Village,” they say. “It’s a magical, charming town.” I have been pleased to make their acquaintance through their visits to our café. First, let me clarify – a herpetologist is someone who specializes in the study of amphibians like reptiles, lizards, turtles and snakes. (During the recent bog turtle controversy surrounding the proposed golf course in Norfolk, Michael was consulted as an expert.) And he is wondering if there are any artistic young people out there who would like to draw some amphibians to post in his window! (Drop your artwork off at Toymakers and we’ll be sure they get it). As for Ken, I’m excited to report that he is helping Michael open a small antiques store in the front of the left side of the building this spring! The shop will specialize in antiques and decorative objects from the 1880’s to the mid-20th century. Signs of life on Main Street! Yes!! Michael and Ken are a quiet burst of fresh energy here in town.

Rather than providing privacy, the shades currently on the windows are there to protect the furniture, books and fabrics from U.V. sun damage. When the antiques store is ready, the shades on the left hand side of the building will be gone.
The two live in Amesville but dine frequently at Toymakers, where I hope some of you have met and spoken with them. Ken seems more easy-going, whereas Michael often is immersed in intense business or scientific conversations. But both of them have terrific senses of humor and delightful smiles, and I look forward to their visits. I think the most heartwarming moment was when I heard Michael say, “You know, everyone gets caught up in the politics of it all, and no one really cares about the bog turtle.” I have not followed, or taken sides in, the turtle controversy, but I am proud to have as a neighbor on Main Street a man who could make such a caring, intelligent, big-picture statement.

“We have been delayed in getting things going because of the ongoing renovations to the roof and windows,” Michael laments. At this point, they even struggle to get in the front door due to warping caused by water damage. With so much to contend with, let’s give them LOTS of encouragement to bring their trades to our fair town. And LOTS of business once they open their antiques store. Leaving a comment of support (or bringing amphibious artwork to the cafe) would help right now!