Habitat starting work on Massena home

MASSENA — It may just be an empty corner plot with a couple of stakes in it, but 29 Spruce St. already feels like home to Jody L. and Elizabeth A. Smithers. With the help of Raquette Valley Habitat for Humanity, the couple and their two daughters soon will begin work on building the house they've been wishing for.

"We've been coming and mowing the lawn and planning where everything is going to be," Mrs. Smithers said. "I just want it to be covered in counter space!"

The family broke ground Sunday under a big umbrella alongside friends and Massena officials. This will be the 13th house that Raquette Valley Habitat for Humanity has built in the county since 1989.

Meanwhile, across town at the St. Lawrence Centre mall arena, teens were helping to raise money for the project with a battle of the bands. The "Sound Off: Music for Change" event attracted about 150 people Sunday with a variety of musical groups.

"I thought it went really well," said Brandon J. Snell, drummer for heavy metal band Divided Roads. "People say, 'Will you play for free? It's a good cause,' and we have to say OK."

The Habitat chapter needs every bit of fundraising help it can get in the recession. Donations for the group's annual walk-a-thons were down by several thousand dollars this year, said Norma J. LaPointe, secretary for the Habitat chapter.

Mrs. Smithers said her 3-year-old daughter, Aurora D.L., has been asking for weeks how she can help build their house. Aurora got started by helping her dad hoist a golden shovel Sunday, while her sister, Cheyenne E.L., 2, watched.

"We're excited. I can't believe this is actually happening," said Mr. Smithers, who works at Triple A Lumber. "We're just looking forward to having it be our own."

The family has been renting a small two-bedroom house in Norfolk, but wants to have a bigger home closer to town. Construction begins today on the residence, which will be about 1,200 square feet with three bedrooms.

"I think it's so wonderful that this family is going to have a home and the community is going to make that possible. I'm thrilled to be a part of that," said the Rev. Jeffrey V. Aiosa, who led prayers at the ceremony.