Sally Ann Gets Makeover

Bill Griffin still works a mile-a-minute in his Main Street bakery, serving scones and sandwiches to a steady stream of customers and making fresh breads, cakes and pies on special order.

But Griffin is also working on a new look for the popular Sally Ann Bake Shop, a fixture on the Milldam. He has new display cases, replacing the original ones that dated from the 1940s.

"The place needs a facelift," said Griffin as he put together a sandwich in the back of the shop. He's painting the walls and improving the lighting and he's bought a new refrigerator in the back.

But the biggest change might be the addition of seats inside the shop. Griffin has no definite plans to modernize beyond the paint and other updates, but he has spoken to Building Inspector John Minty about adding some small tables and chairs if his permit would allow it. A space in the shop has been cleared for tables and possibly some counter seats.

Griffin doesn't want to change the shop's atmosphere, but he has made inquiries thus far.

"The business hasn't changed," he said. "I still get here at 3 a.m. to bake the bread and pastries."

Over February vacation week, he said he will complete the paint and lighting changes, and think hard about adding seats. Then, if he likes the idea, he will approach the Planning and Zoning boards when he has time.

The menu? "Staying the same," he said, "although I may start making bread with organic ingredients."