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Photo Courtesy Library announces A performance featuring “Magic by George” will highlight a week of virtual programming during school vacation virtual vacation week at the Jacob Edwards Library. week programs

SOUTHBRIDGE — week of activities can at 1 p.m., a Zoom virtual During the Southbridge be enjoyed beginning program with our favor- Christmas school vaca- on Monday, Dec. 28, ite “Maggie the Clown,” tion week of Dec. 28, the with the Pumpernickel presenting a very dif- Jacob Edwards Library, Puppets from 8 a.m. to ferent magic show and in co-sponsorship 8 p.m., viewed at your learning to do some with the Southbridge leisure by signing on to magic tricks. Please join Cultural Council, is pro- http://pumpernickelpuppets. Zoom meeting by calling viding virtual perfor- com/library. the library to register mances through Zoom 0n Tuesday, Dec. 29 at for the meeting ID code or YouTube for the 1 p.m., a Zoom fun vir- and passcode. enjoyment of the pub- tual event for the entire All of these vaca- lic, namely for children family with “Magic by tion week presenta- and adults. What better George.” Join Zoom tions are made possible way to use the opportu- meeting by calling in to through funding by the nity such as this medi- the library to register Southbridge Cultural um of virtual enjoyment for the meeting ID and Council, a local agen- to provide some free passcode. cy supported by the entertainment in the On Wednesday, Dec. 30 Massachusetts Cultural safety and comfort of at 1 p.m., a totally fun Council, a state agency in your home during this and engaging program co-sponsorship with the time of restrictions from presenting a “Ukelele Jacob Edwards Library COVID-19? The pandem- Concert” and beginning for the enjoyment and ic still has the library instruction to the uku- benefit of Southbridge in lockdown, and only lele with Julie Stefanek, and area communities. offers curbside service a professional musician, We, the Southbridge to the public. The Jacob with many children pro- Cultural Council and Edwards Library staff grams in her repertoire. the Jacob Edwards is available, and can be Please join Zoom meet- Library, wish everyone a reached by calling (508) ing by calling the library safe and healthy Merry 764-5426 from 9 a.m. to to register for the meet- Christmas and New 5 p.m. ing ID and passcode. Year. The following fun On Thursday, Dec. 31 Southbridge targets more than $1 million in grants

SOUTHBRIDGE — four crosswalk locations signs at Lebanon Hill The town is seeking – Dresser Park, Morris Housing (aka TAG), more than $1 million and East Main, Capillo where Blakeley noted in various planning-re- Park, Charlton Street there are no existing lated grants to address School and Eastford crosswalks in part infrastructure, safety Road School – that have because there isn’t and other needs, partic- seen accidents over the enough distance to see ularly downtown. years. DPW Director in either direction. She Most recently, the Heather Blakeley said said she’d like to be Council voted unan- they’ll try to extend able to remove some of imously this week to the funds as far as pos- the nearby hillside to apply for $237,000 from sible to repair nearby expand such visibility. the Shared Winter sidewalks, noting it People now routinely Streets and Spaces grant might be possible to do cross between two park- and $72,000 from the “50 feet” on either side ing lots which don’t have Urban Agenda grant. of each crosswalk. On sidewalks (another for- Photo Courtesy Those are on top of the Main Street, some of mal crosswalk require- A scene from Old Sturbridge Village’s ongoing Christmas By Candlelight celebration. annual CDBG grant of those sidewalks will ment). $825,000. also be fixed as part of CDBG Director Peg If obtained, the former the project that began Dean added the first will enable Southbridge recently, but it stops at grant will also construct to install “rapid flashing Everett Street. Old Sturbridge Village pedestrian beacons” in It’ll also add crossing Turn To GRANTS, page ­­­A12 hosts first Cornerstone Bank gives virtual fundraiser back to the community STURBRIDGE encouraged. Those and where program — Old Sturbridge that donated were is headed in the Village (OSV) hosted entered into different future. Donors were this holiday season their first ever virtu- raffle drawings that given the opportuni- al fundraiser, “Before took place through- ty to honor a person REGION unwrapped, non-violent the building upon arriv- and Beyond: A out the evening. The of their choosing by — Cornerstone Bank is toys or gift certificates al Virtual Fundraising event included 24 raf- making their gift in giving back to the com- All toys will be given Now through Dec. 18 Celebration of Where fle items unique to honor or memory of munities they serve by to Southbridge children Looking for hats and We’ve Been and What the Village in addi- someone. Names of holding three separate through the Southbridge mittens Comes Next!” on tion to autographed those honored were drives to collect items Police Department Cops All donations will be Thursday evening, materials and prere- read out and listed on for both people and pets ‘N’ Kids Program given to the Mary Queen Dec. 3. corded greetings from the screen during the this holiday season. Hat & Mitten Tree- of the Rosary Parish The Village had Norm Abram, of the event. Included were They are hoping others Spencer who will distribute to 150 attendees from TV show “This Old memorials to for- in the community will Spencer Main Office, needy individuals 16 states, including House” and documen- mer Old Sturbridge want to assist in their 176 Main St. Pet Supply Drive- Massachusetts, Rhode tary filmmaker, Ken Village staff mem- mission by donating Branch is closed to the Spencer Island, Connecticut, Burns. All donors of bers, volunteers, and items as well. Below is public, donations can be Spencer Fair Plaza New Hampshire, $25 or more received supporters; and trib- information about each made by calling ahead Branch, 72 West Main New York, Maine, an Old Sturbridge utes to current staff. drive including dona- at 508-885-5313 or ringing St., Route 9 West California, Illinois, Village ornament in President and CEO, tions accepted and drop- doorbell at the rear of Branch is closed to the Missouri, New the mail. Jim Donahue wel- off information. public, donations can be Jersey, Maryland, Attendees heard comed the attendees Cops ‘N’ Kids Toy made by calling ahead at Virginia, Michigan, from key staff on Old of the event sharing, Drive- Southbridge 508-885-9707 Pennsylvania, Sturbridge Village’s “We are busy work- Southbridge Main Now through Dec. 18 Vermont, and pandemic response, ing on programs Office, 253-275 Main St. Looking for supplies Delaware. The event how COVID-19 and ideas of the Branch is still open to including but not limit- was free to attend brought about inno- Turn To OSV, page ­­­A13 the public ed to but donations were vation to the Village, Now through Dec. 16 Looking for new, 6 5652510441 1 Turn To BANK, page ­­­A13 2 • Thursday, December 17, 2020

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Samantha is a creative teenage girl of Caucasian descent who wants to Real Estate Almanac be a singer when she grows up. Those who know Samantha say she is a Transactions smart, resilient, empathetic child who Open to Close truly cares about the well-being of oth- SOUTHBRIDGE ers. She is also athletic, very practical $255,000, 62 Coombs St, Young, TOWN HALL and a strong advocate for herself. She David, and Damerijan, Holly, to Monday-Wednesday: is able to express her needs without Wilson, Lucy W. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. any prompting. Samantha has been $248,000, 50 Dennison Xrd, Nash, Thursday: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. very interested in trying out new hair Richard T, and Nash, Maria, to Friday: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. styles and those who are close to her Wolfel, Alexander R. Samantha $235,000, 340 Morris St, JACOB EDWARDS PUBLIC Age 14 say she is extremely stylish. Saman- Pontbriand, Angela, to Blakeman, LIBRARY tha likes school, particularly writing and recess. She is a great problem solver who works hard to achieve desired Stephanie. Monday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. outcomes. $212,000, 99 Crystal St, Khattar, Tuesday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Joel, to Gonzalez, Desiree, and Wednesday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Legally free for adoption, Samantha would do best in a home with a single Hernndez, Jose M. Thursday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. mom or a two-parent family. If there are other children in the home, they $56,000, Lebanon Hill Rd, Allison Friday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. should not be close in age to Samantha. Samantha would thrive in a family Gendreau RET, and Gendreau, Saturday: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (May 25 that could give her a lot of attention and help her reach her fullest potential. Allison, to Mcquillan, Kenneth, will be our last open Saturday until A pre-adoptive family will need to maintain contact with Samantha’s relatives and Reitz-Mcquillan, Katherin. Labor Day) Sunday: Closed and her visiting resource through phone and visitation. Samantha would like a family with pets (maybe a dog) and older siblings.

Who Can Adopt? Shopping Can you provide the guidance, love and stability that a child needs? If you’re at least 18 years old, have a stable source of income, and room in your heart, you may be a perfect match to adopt a waiting child. Adoptive parents can be single, married, or partnered; experienced or not; renters or homeowners; All Day? LGBTQ singles and couples. Save yourself some time, The process to adopt a child from foster care requires training, interviews, and home visits to determine if adoption is right for you, and if so, to help con- Let us do the cooking! nect you with a child or sibling group that your family will be a good match for. To learn more about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at 617-6273 or visit www.mareinc.org. NOW OFFERING COMPLETE The sooner you call, the sooner a waiting child will have a permanent place CHRISTMAS DINNERS to call home.

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A Stonebridge Press publication

How to Use President & Publisher Editor Frank G. Chilinski Brendan Berube (508) 909-4101 (508) 909-4106 [email protected] [email protected] TO PLACE A RETAIL AD: TO Print AN OBITUARY: Business Manager Production Manager N EWS STAFF DIRECTORY Julie Clarke Advertising Executive EM - Ail: [email protected] Ryan Corneau (603) 677-9082 (508) 909-4105 Mikaela Victor CALL: 508-909-4149 ditor (508) 909-4126 E [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] TOSMT UB I A LETTER Brendan Berube TO THE EDITOR: Operations Director TOS UBSCRIBE, OR FOR (508) 909-4106 Jim DiNicola SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES: EM - Ail: [email protected] [email protected] (508) 764-4325 Kerri Peterson (508) 909-4103 Stonebridge Press photo policy [email protected] TOSMT UB I Sports Editor As a community oriented family of newspapers, Stonebridge Press CALENDAR ITEMS: TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD: Nick Ethier welcomes photos from readers, business owners, and other outside (508) 909-4111 EM - Ail: [email protected] (508) 909-4133 sources for publication in any of its titles. Any photos submitted [email protected] for publication become the property of Stonebridge Press, and [email protected] may be displayed in our newspapers, as well as on our Web site. TO FAX THE NEWS: TOS Ound OFF: Call (508) 764-8015 They may also be made available for resale, with any proceeds E-MAIL: [email protected] going to Stonebridge Press and/or the photo re-print vendor. ­4 • Thursday, December 17, 2020 Bay Path LPN gets accepted into Laboure College’s ASN Program

CHARLTON — Although Since Rivera graduated from connection skills resulting healthcare hero amidst the she always planned on aca- Bay Path Practical Nursing in in-depth skills to recog- COVID-19 pandemic. The demic progression with her Academy, which is an accredit- nize signs of suicide. Rivera world needs more nurses like career path, Ashley Rivera, ed, post-secondary institution, also received certifications in Rivera to care for patients or LPN of Southbridge did recognized by the Department Dementia Care, Mental Health clients either in the rehabili- not think it would come so of Higher Education and fully First Aid (National Council tation or home health setting. soon! Yet here she is, ready to approved by the board of reg- for Behavioral Health), and Some nurses are willing to embark on another academic istration in nursing, she is eli- Infusion Therapy/Central combine specialties, but only adventure. gible for advanced placement. Line Care (Intravenous Edu). a handful do it. Rivera does it Rivera received her accep- Justin G. Roy, Vice President Rivera said she has always and does it with passion! tance notification into the of Enrollment and Marketing wanted to be a nurse since At Bay Path Practical highly respected Associate of in his letter to Rivera com- she provided direct support Nursing Academy, the pro- Science in Nursing (ASN) pro- mended her for her personal at Jefferson Rehabilitation gram is a 40-week, (10-month), gram at Laboure College. To and academic accomplish- Center in Watertown, N.Y. in full-time, Monday through be considered for the Laboure ments. Rivera completed her 2015-2017. Friday, evening program. The College’s ASN program (LPN practical nursing education at “I’ve always thought about program begins mid-August to RN Advanced Placement Bay Path Practical Nursing being a nurse,” Rivera said. and is completed in late June. track) candidates must meet Academy in 2019. She was an “I love to help people and I Graduates receive a Practical application requirements officer for the UNICEF Club like doing different things. Nursing Certificate and are for all programs, the gener- and competed for SkillsUSA Nursing is the best fit.” eligible to take the NCLEX- al admission criteria for all district and state champion- Rivera does not have sec- PN licensure exam. The programs, be an LPN with ship where she garnered a sil- ond thoughts about pick- Bay Path Practical Nursing a current license in good ver and gold medal respective- ing rehabilitation nursing Academy is fully approved standing and meet the pro- ly in the Health Knowledge and home care. She has by the Commonwealth of gram-specific criteria based Bowl category. She attended been with Webster Manor Massachusetts Executive upon the candidate’s level of the Innovation Summit at Rehabilitation and Healthcare Office of Health and Human education. Some candidates Northeastern University Center (July 2019 to present) Services Department of Public Ashley Rivera will be required to take the in Boston. Rivera was a vol- and Accessible Home Health Health Board of Registration Test of Essential Academic unteer at the Paxton Senior in Auburn (September 2019 to in Nursing (www.mass.gov/ (www.council.org). For more Skills (TEAS) on campus at no Health Fair. She participat- present). Rivera, who is bilin- dph/boards/rn) and is accred- information, visit www.bay- additional charge for accep- ed in “SafeTalk” developing gual, (English and Spanish) ited by the Commission on path.net. tance or for course placement. suicide alertness and safety is humbled by being called a Occupational Education Icy weather puts school procedures to the test BY JASON BLEAU have plans in place in case of in the early morning forced admitting the call was made building was slightly different CORRESPONDENT snow events this winter, it was the district to cancel in-per- later that normal as the weath- in their approach to that par- DUDLEY/CHARLTON – ice that truly put those plans son classes and move to online er caught a lot of people off ticular day, so we met as an While the Dudley Charlton to the test on Tuesday, Dec. learning for the day. guard. “We continue to plan administrative team to discuss Regional School District does 8, when freezing conditions Superintendent Steven for remote learning days for that further and plan that out Lamarche discussed the day weather related closures at our better,” Lamarche said. “We during a School Committee facilities. There’s no question have some work to do. What meeting on Dec. 9 saying the the exceptions of those weath- was happening is we were unexpected conditions caused er-related closures will be if developing plans for big things him to make a late-morning we have a state of emergency like if we went to full remote. call to keep students from or widespread power outages. We were a little flat footed on coming into school for their Those will obviously play a fac- the weather-related day.” safety and the safety of the tor in if we call a remote learn- Lamarche said they received bus drivers putting into play ing day or a snow day.” great feedback from teach- the district’s strategy of mov- The discussion offered a ers and parents and identi- ing classes to online learning chance for members of the fied several areas they want if possible should the schools School Committee to chime in to improve. Overall, though, need to remain closed for unex- on any improvements they felt he felt that the teachers and pected reasons. needed to be addressed or con- administrators handled things “We experienced a surprise cerns they had from the first well and promised that they weather-related day due to true weather closure of the will continue to improve and drizzle and mist that froze new school year. Committee evolve as winter progresses. on contact with streets and member Pauline Aucoin ques- “We have not left the contin- driveways. With our half-day tioned what was expected from uous improvement model on schedule, it doesn’t lend itself staff on a snow day to have a everything we do,” Lamarche to any type of delay so there- better understanding of how said. “This one day did not fore we have to move into a such a day works. Lamarche escape our attention to reflect, full remote day. Typically, that stated that every building has evaluate and improve on what would have been a two-hour its own protocol that the edu- we do on a full-remote day due delay day. It would not have cators follow if schools are to weather related events.” been in any way, shape or form forced to close. a snow day,” Lamarche said, “What we learned was every

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Since 1988 Family Owned and Operated Family Owned and Operated Call John 508.304.7816 C: 508-397-6709 Now Accepting All David Jason 3rd generation. Now Accepting All or We are home owners’ Major Credit Cards O: 508-248-6709 Major Credit Cards Hight CALL plumbers! Auburn MA 508-612-9573 [email protected] davidbarbale.com This section reaches 47,000 households in 7 Massachusetts newspapers. ­6 • Thursday, December 17, 2020 LPN to RN WORCESTER — Husband and wife John Muchiri Dream comes true for and Esther Gitaka, both of Worcester, agree and under- Gitaka-Muchiri family stood the importance of edu- cation. Both completed high school overseas (Kenya), he College and became an RN. His (since April 2017) and Seven at Dandora High School and previous work background Hills Foundation also in she at Mugoiri High School. includes Mental Health Worcester (since November Both also completed the rig- Counselor at Advocates Inc., 2019). orous practical nursing pro- in Framingham (2007-2013); Both pursued a nursing gram at Bay Path Practical a nurse at Beaumont at the career where they can hone Nursing Academy in Charlton Willows in Westborough (2015- their strong clinical judg- then bridging to the LPN to 2016), at Pivot Point Home ment, excellent physical RN program at Quinsigamond Healthcare in West Boylston assessment skills, good com- Community College earn- (2016-2018); and at Holy Trinity munication skills, but also, ing their Associate Degree Nursing And Rehabilitation provided financial security. in Nursing. Both passed the Center in Worcester (Jan. 2019 Both John and Esther agree NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN -April 2020). Since February of that they have the best of both take one, the first try! Both 2020 he is an RN at the Adcare worlds, as healthcare workers were LPNs first then both Hospital in Worcester pro- and have economic security became RNs! viding direct nursing care, a for their family. Their other dream came frontline worker! Esther com- “Choosing Nursing and Bay true recently — purchasing pleted her Practical Nursing Path was one of the best deci- their new home in Worcester Certificate at Bay Path sions I have ever made,” said which they now enjoy with Practical Nursing Academy John. “I have had the oppor- their three children. in 2016. Her background as tunities and experiences that As children themselves a Certified Nursing Assistant have made all the difference.” growing up overseas, both (CNA since 2013) helped tre- “I knew Bay Path’s pro- John and Esther admired mendously. With her excel- gram would help me achieve “helpers” in their lives. They lent academic performance my dream,” Esther said. “The observed how compassion- Esther was inducted into the Practical Nursing program ately healthcare workers National Technical Honor gave me countless opportuni- dealt with the communi- Society (NTHS). She also com- ties and exposure, which pre- ty, how kind the nurses are. pleted her Associates Degree pared me for success in my is completed in late June. Services Department of Public John first applied to Bay Path in Nursing at Quinsigamond nursing career.” Graduates receive a Practical Health Board of Registration Practical Nursing Academy Community College and Read on to learn about Nursing Certificate and are in Nursing (www.mass.gov/ and graduated in 2015. He became an RN. Her work expe- Bay Path Practical Nursing eligible to take the NCLEX- dph/boards/rn) and is accred- took the NCLEX-PN the same rience as a nurse includes Academy, visit www.bay- PN licensure exam. The ited by the Commission on year and passed on his first Beaumont Rehabilitation path.net. The program is a Bay Path Practical Nursing Occupational Education attempt. He completed his and Skilled Nursing Center 40-week, (10-month), full-time, Academy is fully approved (www.council.org). For more Associate Degree in Nursing in Worcester (2016-2017), Monday through Friday, by the Commonwealth of information visit www.bay- at Quinsigamond Community Christopher House Skilled evening program. The pro- Massachusetts Executive path.net. Nursing Facility in Worcester gram begins mid-August and Office of Health and Human Bay Path students complete Mental Health First Aid training course

CHARLTON — The entire Practical tions. Just as CPR helps participants compassionate conversations with Nursing Class of 2021 at Bay Path assist an individual having a heart adults. Practical Nursing Academy completed attack, Mental Health First Aid helps Mental health awareness is a high- the 8- hour Adult Mental Health First participants assist those experiencing lighted program at the Bay Path Aid (MHFA) Training Course recently a mental health or substance use-relat- Practical Nursing Academy, the PN and all became MHFA Certified. ed crisis. At the end of the training PN students are grateful to have the sup- Pictured above is Brianna Cloutier students met the goals of recognizing port of the Academy and the part- of Charlton, one of the first practi- signs of mental distress and how best nership with Shrewsbury Youth and cal nursing students to receive her to respond. Family Services, Inc. under the leader- certificate for successfully completing Another PN student, Tianna ship of Executive Director Christine the MHFA training. She welcomed the Welcome of Oxford, stated “This was Mowry. The training was made possi- crucial education and training from an amazing course. Nearly every topic ble through the support of Simon Says health crisis to a mental health crisis. touched on, I have had personal expe- Pizza Chef of Southbridge and Big Y, The Centers for Disease Control rience with. I feel I can take what I also of Southbridge. (CDC) reported a jump in cases of have learned in my career as a nurse, At Bay Path Practical Nursing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, support of family and friends, and in Academy, the program is a 40-week, and suicidal thoughts during the pan- the community.” (10-month), full-time, Monday through demic. The PN students as Certified Gretheline Bolandrina, MSN Ed, Friday, evening program. The pro- MHFA givers can help adults get RN, CRRN, Academy Director stated, gram begins mid-August and is com- critical support when they need it “Bay Path Practical Nursing Academy pleted in late June. Graduates receive most. The members of the Bay Path has a strong advocacy for mental a Practical Nursing Certificate and are Practical Nursing Class of 2021 com- health.” eligible to take the NCLEX-PN licen- pleted training in Mental Health First She added, “like CPR in keeping the sure exam. The Bay Path Practical Aid held at the Bay Path Regional blood flowing to organs until the EMTs Nursing Academy is fully approved by Vocational Technical High School or an MD shows up, with MHFA, your the Commonwealth of Massachusetts following all the CDC requirements caring interventions reassure individ- Executive Office of Health and Human for physical distancing and face cov- uals that they can get help until a Services Department of Public Health erings. The Mental Health First Aid referral can be made for them to a Board of Registration in Nursing Photo Courtesy training emphasized to participants mental health professional if neces- (www.mass.gov/dph/boards/rn) and Pictured above is Brianna Cloutier of Charlton, mental health literacy, understanding sary.” is accredited by the Commission one of the first practical nursing students to risk factors and warning signs for Even if MHFA Certified PN students on Occupational Education (www. receive her certificate for successfully com- mental health and addiction concerns never face a critical mental health council.org). For more information, pleting the MHFA training. and strategies for how to help someone situation, the training enables them visit www.baypath.net. in both crisis and non-crisis situa- to have healthier, more impactful and Holland Assessors’ Big Brothers Big Sisters host office announces successful virtual event abatement/exemption REGION — Big Brothers where events do not exist - we for Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Sisters of Central Mass & are all adapting to make the of Central Mass & MetroWest. MetroWest (BBBS) found them- best out of a situation. Working “Our supporters, and especially selves three weeks away from with the team at Ember and our staff and legions of volun- procedures their largest fundraiser of Blackstone Productions on The teers, have shown how much of the year, The Big Celebration, Big Night In provided our agen- an impact we can have when we HOLLAND — The request a form be mailed when everything came to cy with a new capacity which adapt and continue to provide Assessors’ office is closed to to you, be sure to say your a halt due to Covid-19. The ensured that we offered the best mentoring to children facing the public, and Fiscal Year address including the zip- Mayor of Marlborough, Arthur possible virtual event experi- social isolation and uncertain 2021 third quarter Actual code. G. Vigeant, alongside Bob’s ence for our supporters,” said conditions.” tax bills will be mailed at Real Estate and Personal Discount Furniture’s Executive Lindsay McCarthy, Marketing The event can be viewed at the end of December. This Property Abatement Chairman, Ted English, both and Special Events Manager at www.youtube.com/bbbscm- Assessors’ office wants to be Applications are due committed to being Honorary BBBS. mw. Thanks to sponsorships, sure residents and taxpay- February 1, 2021. Abatement Chairs of the event. The deci- The Big Night In featured auction sales, and dona- ers still have access to infor- applications are filed when sion was soon made to postpone an online auction and a live- tions, BBBS of Central Mass mation and forms. the property owner dis- the event that was scheduled for streamed event which was & MetroWest raised over Any property owners agrees with the property April 4, 2020. The BBBS staff broadcasted from the AC Hotel $130,000. Top sponsors were The wishing to apply for an value. and event committee pivoted in downtown Worcester on Hanover Insurance Group, TJX abatement or an exemption Exemption Applications and began planning for their October 29th. During the event, Companies, Bob’s Discount of their Fiscal Year 2021 real and due April 1st, 2021. first-ever, virtual event, The Big former WCVB news reporter, Furniture, and Avidia Bank. estate or personal property Exemptions applications Night In which was held on Susan Wornick, announced About Big Brothers Big tax can obtain the form sev- are filed by certain veterans, Oct. 29. that BBBS of Central Mass. & Sisters of Central Mass. & eral ways. elderly, bind or surviving Unsure what to expect, the MetroWest was one of 15 Big MetroWest Download the forms from spouses. See the Assessors team at BBBS re-evaluated Brothers Big Sisters agencies The mission of Big Brothers the Assessors’ page on the webpage or call for infor- their event budget and goals from across the nation selected Big Sisters of Central Mass. Town of Holland Web site. mation. before forging ahead. The to receive a $50,000 matching & MetroWest is to create pro- Send an email to asses- For exempt organizations, team worked closely with an gift from the Stavros Niarchos fessionally supported mentor- [email protected] to the 3ABC form is due March event planning company out of Foundation. BBBS used this ing relationships, empowering request a form be emailed 1, 2021. Newburyport called Ember and donation to drive donations youth to realize their potential to you. If you have any questions, a skilled audio-visual team at during the event and will con- and build brighter futures. Call the Assessors’ office please call the Assessor’s Blackstone Productions located tinue raising funds which will Children’s lives are enhanced 413-245-7108, ext. 106 and office 413-245-7108, ext. 106. in Uxbridge. be matched by the Stavros when they have a mentor in “Everyone has had to learn Niarchos Foundation, up to their lives to celebrate their suc- how to work differently. $50,000 throughout the giving cesses. To learn more about Big 25,000 Unique Visitors Every Week! Whether you are a teacher and season. Brothers Big Sisters of Central learned how to work remote, a “We are so thankful and grati- Mass & MetroWest, please visit store owner who had to find a fied by the support of our entire www.bbbscm.org. new way to reach consumers, network during this challenging www.stonebridgepress.news or an event planner in a world year,” said Jeffrey Chin, CEO Thursday, December 17, 2020 • ­7

Merry Christmas 43to East all Main from Street all Webster, of us MA at 01570 the hope2own.com 508.943.4333

We are proud to be an American! God Bess theUnited States of America! ­8 • Thursday, December 17, 2020

Established 1923 Are you still planning to PO Box 90 Southbridge, MA 01550 OPINIONViewpoints and commentary from the Tri-Community and beyond Telephone: (508) 764-4325 Fax: (508) 764-8015 retire early? www.StonebridgePress.com Have your retirement plans changed because of COVID-19? If so, you have plenty of company. Nearly 40 percent Frank G. Chilinski o the ditor of those planning to retire say the President & Publisher T E pandemic has disrupted their inten- tions, according to the Edward Jones/ Brendan Berube Age Wave Four Pillars of the New Editor TCA is thankful Retirement study. You might have been thinking about retiring early – can you To the Editor: mental in the success of grandparents and alums still do so? Trinity Catholic this campaign offering who participated with Even without a cri- Academy would like the ideal incentive tool gifts and spreading the sis, it’s not a bad idea to take this opportu- to obtain the results that word. Your participation to review your import- nity to thank the area exceeded our goal! revealed a great benefit ant life goals from time ditorial community for their Thank you to Rita’s to reach new donors. to time. So, in thinking E most recent support of Country Primitives, TCA is truly grateful about the possibility of their first time “online” Oakridge Creations, Toni to all that participated early retirement, con- Giving Tuesday event Perkins, LMT for supply- individually monetari- sider these factors: assisting TCA to obtain ing gifts from their busi- ly or “in-kind.” We are Financial Your retirement life- Chromebooks. nesses and thanks to all truly blessed. style – Your ability to Focus We all share Key support of match- that invested time in the On behalf of Trinity retire early depends ing gift opportunities short Campaign. Your Catholic Academy, JEFF somewhat on what offered by the Hyde support added fun and BURDICK sort of lifestyle you’re responsibility Dexter Foundation; interest as progress was Diane Perry anticipating during a Local Community made toward the goal. Alumni Liaison your retirement years. Partner & the TCA We cannot forget the If you think you’ll be traveling exten- for protecting Board were truly instru- parents, past parents and sively or pursuing expensive activi- ties, you might not be able to afford to retire as early as someone with more the vulnerable modest ambitions. Of course, there’s Are we still no “right” or “wrong” way of living in retirement – we all have our own Something we’ve been hearing over dreams and preferences. But be aware the past few months with regard to that different lifestyles do carry dif- COVID-19 deaths is the downplaying a beacon of democracy? ferent price tags – and have different of elderly victims succumbing to the effects on when you can retire securely. virus. When we look at the data and I’m a lifestyle columnist almost perfectly down the Sources of retirement income – have conversations about the infec- that promotes optimism middle by a different ide- Obviously, a key factor in knowing Positively tion rate, and the numbers of those and positivity in our daily ology but that alone isn’t whether you can retire early is the who actually pass away as a result, it lives. I’m not a political Speaking enough to fuel a dissolution amount of retirement income you seems to be dismissed in cases where pundit. Occasionally a of our Union that has lasted can rely on. So, you’ll have to assess the person is over the age of 65. “Well, subject arises that con- GARY W. since 1776. A lack of trust in all your sources: Social Security, any they are old anyway, and in that age nects the two areas of MOORE our elections ... just might other pensions you might receive, and bracket” is often overheard. positivity and politics be. If we believe our elec- your investment portfolio, including What an awful world view. and I feel it’s important to tions are not honest and fair your 401(k) and IRA. The amounts you True, when we hear about an older address. We have a problem. ... how can we possibly be the Beacon receive from these sources will depend person passing, we can find some sort Depending on which poll you believe, of Democracy? Why should we vote if on a variety of factors. of solace knowing that they were able almost 40 percent of all Americans every legal vote isn’t counted? It is a For Social Security, the longer you to live for a fairly long time and enjoy believe our recent election was either National dilemma. wait until collecting, the larger your life as such. However, isn’t the point to dishonestly counted or was unfair, To those calling for secession, let me monthly payments (although they will try to live as long and healthy as possi- while seventy-seven percent of remind you how well it worked for our “top out” when you reach 70, excluding ble? Many of these elderly individuals Republican voters say their candidate nation last time this idea reared its cost-of-living adjustments). In regard who have fallen victim to this virus, was fraudulently defeated. There has ugly head. The southern states paid to your investments and retirement would still be alive today, had COVID never been so much distrust in our a devastating price, while the whole accounts, you’ll need to establish a not come into all of our lives. voting system. nation suffered the massive losses of withdrawal rate that’s appropriate for This outlook is a dangerous view- Former US Congressman and retired our civil war. I cannot believe anyone the length of time you expect to be point to have, especially amidst a pan- Army Lieutenant Colonel Allen West would want to risk a second American retired. So, by adjusting these vari- demic. Of course the younger, health- is now floating the idea of secession for Civil War, but there are those who do, ables – taking Social Security earlier ier population is less at risk; however those states who feel election laws were and the numbers are growing. Ideology or later, taking more or less money the responsibility falls on all of us broken to elect Joe Biden. alone will not cause this break-up, but from your retirement accounts – you to protect the vulnerable, regardless This was an unprecedented election, a lack of a reliable, honest, and trust- can help determine if the retirement of our odds of contracting a severe with new rules and extreme meth- worthy voting system can and maybe date you had in mind is viable. case ourselves. We may be fine if ods, designed to accommodate voters will. Your feelings about work – Your we catch it, and may decide not to due to our current Covid-19 pandem- If we want to secure our Union, we goals are not static – they can change take precautions, telling ourselves “I’ll ic. Former President Jimmy Carter, a must secure our voting system. in response to any number of reasons, be fine.” However, walking around long-time global advocate and judge for How do we do it? both external and personal. When you asymptomatically may infect someone free elections, a Democrat, says that We must show picture identification first decided you wanted to retire early, who might not be OK. As a society mail-in ballots are wrought with the for many less important reasons in you might have been motivated by, of neighbors, co-workers, family and opportunity for fraud. Never in our his- our states and our nation. What’s more among other things, a weariness of friends, it should always be our job tory have we had the massive number important than voting? Picture ID your current job. But has that changed to look out for each other. Despite of vote-by-mail ballots as we did in this must be shown to vote. And no ... this over time? Have you found new chal- our differences, we must always put 2020 election. is not voter suppression but reasonable lenges that interest you at work? Or, humanity first and take care of one The Beacon of Democracy? The Land election security. if you were forced by the pandemic to another. Whether that looks like help- of the Free and Home of (because) of Absentee ballots must be used for work remotely, did you actually enjoy ing someone with a flat tire, pulling the Brave now floating a break-up of legitimate reasons for being absent on the arrangement and want to continue someone out of a ditch who’s car slid our Union? Election Day and should not be avail- it? off the road, helping someone in need Yes. I believe our Union is at risk, but able to the masses because they don’t After all, many employers have with groceries, or taking precautions let me be clear. I do not advocate over- want to vote in person. If you care found that their workers can be just during a pandemic to keep each other turning the recent election. I accept the about the future of your nation, show as productive working at home, so, safe, it’s our duty as decent human results based upon the election rules up at the voting booth, show your ID even when we’ve gotten past COVID- beings to do the right thing, not for that were in place. The problem I see, and vote. How is this asking too much? 19, we might see a sizable shift in ourselves but for each other. and it should disturb both sides, is Counting of every single vote must the geography of the workplace. In In overhearing such statements that the looseness of rules, methods, be done with poll watchers from each any case, if your feelings about work regarding the elderly, we want to techniques, and monitoring of the last party. Any vote that is illegally counted have changed in some way, leading remind those that need to hear it, election places our democracy at risk. under the view of only one side must you to think you could work longer that these long lived lives are just as This isn’t about Trump or Biden. This be either thrown out or counted again, than originally planned, you’d likely important as they always have been. is about election security. We can and with proper witnesses. gain some financial advantages. You’d Being elderly shouldn’t mean we are must do better. As for voting machines and the alle- make more money, for starters, but automatically dismissed as a member You may say Allen West isn’t repre- gations they are easily open to fraud, you’d also keep building your 401(k) of society. The golden years should be sentative of most voters on the right, I don’t know enough to comment, but and IRA, and you could even possibly protected as best they can as we all age, but I’d say you may be wrong. This I’ve heard enough to believe they must delay taking Social Security. and we all will. shouldn’t be a left or right issue, it’s an be examined before they are used The pandemic may lead to a reeval- Our elderly community are just as American issue. We should be united again. uation of many financial goals – and valuable now as they were when they in preserving the integrity of our elec- Then you have our tech giants who taking early retirement might be one were in their twenties. Remember that tions. I believe clearly favor one side over of them. By thinking carefully about senior citizens still pay taxes, grocery I’m born and raised in Illinois, and another and influence voters by their your situation and your options, you shop, take care of family members for as long as I can remember, there has bias. Why is this allowed and how do can come up with a course of action including grandchildren. It is our been, and continues to be, a desire for we stop this? that’s right for you. grandparents that make up the high- the Illinois “outside of Chicago” to sep- Want to preserve our Union? Secure est number of child care providers, arate from the Windy City. The Chicago our elections. Taking the steps to This article was written by Edward allowing their own children to contin- Machine rules Illinois with an iron fist secure our elections is not voter sup- Jones for use by your local Edward ue to work, which in turn boosts the and has for almost one-hundred years. pression but election security. Without Jones Financial Advisor. Please contact economy. Look no further than the 1960 presiden- election security, everything we say we Jeff Burdick, your local Edward Jones Our elderly population provides tial election if you want to understand stand for is a lie. Advisor in Sturbridge at 508-347-1420 friendship and support to everyone the power of the machine and how a I love my blue friends and love my or [email protected]. around them. In addition, the high- small dishonest group can impact an red friends. If we love our Union, we est number of volunteers come from entire nation. must join hands and engage in election the senior citizen population. Again, There has been a movement over systems we can all trust. The risk of this in turn helps to contribute to our the last few years for the vast expanses not doing so is unfathomable. economy. of red California to break away from My prayer for our nation this It doesn’t seem like any of this hits the influence and control of blue Los Christmas is that we can come together home for some individuals, until they Angeles and San Francisco. And red and reflect the values that have held us are affected personally. If you are Western Washington and Oregon could together for almost 250 years. If we only not close with someone who is elderly, not be more polarized from their fellow agree upon one thing, let’s agree that remember that many of us are. It is statesmen in Seattle and Portland. They our United States of America is worth important to continue to value and are now discussing breaking away and preserving and saving. Imagining the protect the most vulnerable among us. joining Idaho. Then back to Texas, world without our influence creates a In an attempt to bridge recent politi- there’s been a group calling themselves frightening picture. Let’s set aside our cal division, we want to remind every- the “Republic of Texas” that has been political and ideological differences one to look out for each other, despite pushing secession from the U.S. for and preserve our nation. your differences. What matters in the years. And now a former congressman, God bless America, and may God If it’s important end is community and how we operate retired Lt. Colonel (Army) and head of save and preserve our troubled Union. in our own small circles. the GOP in Texas, calling for a discus- We have seen refreshing occurrenc- sion of secession. Gary W. Moore is a freelance col- to you, It’s es of both Republicans and Democrats, The secession movement is grow- umnist, speaker, and author of three locally, who have joined forces to make ing and gaining momentum. It’s fueled books including the award-winning, important to us. our communities a better place…indi- by a large minority (upwards of forty critically acclaimed, “Playing with the viduals who have not lost sight of what percent) that believe their candidate Enemy.” Follow Gary on Twitter @ StonebridgePress.com really matters in life. was cheated and the rightful winner GaryWMoore721 and at www.garyw- was denied. Yes, the country is divided moore.com. Thursday, December 17, 2020 • ­9 Brothers on the hunt The final day of the that I no longer use. Massachusetts shotgun I left Ken on the ridge season was a good one, The Great and headed down to according to hunters my tree stand to sit on that I spoke with. The Outdoors the lower part. At least weather was perfect I could get up to shoot during the morning RALPH if the situation arises. I hours. It was comfort- TRUE slowly walked down to able to sit on a deer run my tree stand, but need- that had high hopes for ed to cross the small this writer and many stream to get to where I others. I hunted with my brother Ken, was going. Lucky I had my Muck boots as I do every year. We both drew a doe on. I found an old stick that was laying permit for Zone 8, so we hunted in on the ground, and used it to steady the town of Douglas. I met Ken at our my ageing body, hoping to navigate the usual spot at 8 a.m., which is a bit late water without falling in. “Whew!” “I because of our elderly status. Made it.” I slowly walked over to my We do not hunt hard, and often have tree stand and placed my cushion on one of us take a stand on a good deer the lower part before I sat down. “This run, that also showed signs of deer is a lot more comfortable.” activity like acorn feeding. My brother There were all kinds of fresh deer decided on taking a slow walk through sign in the area, and I just felt sure I the area, hoping to push a deer to my was in a good spot. I called my brother stand. I sat comfortably on my hotseat on our two-way radio and told him to up against a large oak tree, waiting for take a slow walk through the brush my brother to come through. As I wait- towards my position. I watched the ed, I was being entertained by a couple area pretty good for a while, and then Photo Courtesy of gray squirrels scampering across suddenly out of nowhere, this huge This week’s picture shows Ken & Mark True ice fishing on one of our favorite spots in years the ground, looking for acorns to sus- deer came gliding through the brush past. We are all hoping for some ice this year. tain them through the winter months. in slow but huge jumps. I quickly stood A couple of times one of the squir- up and took aim at the large deer, but miss! I guess I will need to borrow always been; it is just that the celebra- rel’s scampered down a small log that it disappeared into some thick brush. some venison from one of my buddies tion should be done in smaller groups was only a few feet from me, when he I spotted the deer again and let one again this year! We worked our way of family members & friends. We all noticed something wrong. He let out a round go on my 12-gauge shotgun. The back to the car and headed for the need to hope and pray that the recently loud screeching noise, alerting every discharged shell echoed through the nearest coffee shop. There is still black approved vaccine to combat Covid-19 form of wildlife in the area of my pres- woods. powder season that ends on Dec. 31 in is safe, and will work to eradicate this ence. A few red squirrels also joined in I waited a few minutes to stop my Massachusetts! But I am not to encour- terrible disease that has cost thou- with their chatter. I spotted my broth- heart from racing and to let my broth- aged about scoring on some venison sands of lives, and threatens thou- er walking towards me, and I slowly er know of the situation. He stayed this year. sands more. Our faith is being tested, lifted my ageing body off from the where he was because the deer could With Christmas only days away, we and we better be ready. God bless! ground, with the help of the large tree, very well circle and head back in his need to brace ourselves as families, and a couple of smaller trees. After we direction. I was not so sure about my that it will be like no other Christmas Take A Kid Fishing & Keep Them discussed the situation, we decided to shot being productive, but I spent a that we have ever encountered. That Rods Bending! hunt the lower part of the property, while making sure there was no blood does not mean as families that the cele- where I had left one of my tree stands trail. It was as I had figured. A clean bration cannot be meaningful as it has We are the Christmas Carol ghosts The holi- ers” wanting to be involved in see those things, chiding him Sure, the film tends to be a Clock moved to 100 seconds to day season is the world. for his “selective morality” little preachy and exaggerated Midnight (the closest it’s ever again upon His nephew Fred is one of of being willing to ignore dis- … but is it, really, given what been), “The international secu- us, a time in them, with his promotion of tant suffering simply because we’ve seen in recent years? We rity situation is dire, not just most global cultural connections with he doesn’t see it himself. “Go have an economy dedicated to because these threats exist, cultures for Poland and other activism. ahead. Tell them the bombers promoting exactly such selfish- but because world leaders have celebrating Although they share the pain and missiles … are their diet ness for profit; major media allowed the political infra- peace, com- of Marley’s death, Fred sees for survival.” and politicians manipulating structure for managing them munity, fam- the solution as communica- That’s a much easier millions of people to hate fel- to erode.” ily and the tion, with wars being caused to remember phrasing of low citizens at the expense of In short, the world’s gov- return of the by the end of talking and erec- President Eisenhower’s common needs; games and ernments have nearly stopped Earthborn sun, literally tion of barriers. To him, “there famous observation that every movies that promote war and talking about the things that GUS STEEVES or figurative- are certain fences the world dollar spent on weapons is violence far more often than matter. ly. We see it in can no longer afford.” stolen from the mouths of the peace and cooperation. This is insanity. Did any of Christmas, Their clash is amplified by poor. It was true then, and still At the time the film came you get the chance to vote for Hanukah, Yule, Kwanzaa, the three famous ghosts, with is. Although Present’s list of out, we had no nuclear weap- such madness? I didn’t, and Diwali and countless more increasingly catastrophic how many people are afflicted ons treaties. Today, we’ve wouldn’t. localized sacred and secular imagery and consequences. by various ills has changed, nearly reverted to that state, We, the world’s common events. Grudge meets the Past on a most of those ills still exist, and with several of them killed by people, need to be the Ghosts Often, our modern moral- troop transport carrying count- new ones have emerged. Only intent and/or neglect. Just one and force our “leaders” to pay ity plays center on changing less coffins from many nations, the names and places of origin – New START, which expires attention to our shared reality, attitudes that contradict those with the ghost saying he’s “the are sometimes different – then, next month – remains to put not just to their private profits ideas, with one of the most dead, all the dead. We’re quite civilians ran from war in Nam; brakes on the resumption of and private grudges. If they notable being Charles Dickens’ a stew.” today, civilians run from Syria the Cold War arms race. A sec- resist, we need to replace them. “A Christmas Carol.” It’s been “War is a contagious dis- and Afghanistan. ond, the global nuclear ban, As I’ve written before, we got done in several versions, but ease,” he states. “The only Trying to escape seeing has been approved by the UN, really lucky the last Cold War most of us have not seen the chance to keep this particular them, Grudge runs into the but is being completely ignored didn’t obliterate us, but we can- black and white film “Carol for disease from speading is to Future, finding himself in the by the nuclear weapons states. not keep relying on luck. If Another Christmas.” keep talking. … If you don’t rubble of his own Town Hall. Two others are in danger: nukes exist long enough, they It’s Dickens in the twilight want to get involved, you’ve “When the first Bomb was the Comprehensive Test Ban are statistically guaranteed to zone – not surprising, since the gotta give back the 20th cen- dropped on Hiroshima, the fate Treaty, which still holds but be used again somewhere; that director was Rod Serling – and tury,” with its aircraft, subs, of man could have been pre- we’ve never formally accept- could be tomorrow, it could be particularly important to revis- ships and missiles (and, more dicted by a cut-rate gypsy,” his ed, and the Non-Proliferation in 2050, but it will happen. Only it today, since our global situa- recently, the Internet, biotech- ghostly host observes, recalling Treaty, which we violate by strengthening our ability to tion is disturbingly and insane- nology, and other things). He many states got nukes, became protecting Israel’s illegal nukes communicate – and getting rid ly similar to when it came out takes Grudge into his own paranoid, stopped talking, and and which didn’t stop North of the bombs and the lunatic in 1964. memory of a September 1945 blew themselves to pieces. Korea, India or Pakistan from attitudes that underlie them – In brief, Serling’s Scrooge visit to a Hiroshima hospital, But there are survivors, led getting the Bomb. can ensure our long-term sur- character is Daniel Grudge where the patients are girls by the lunatic, uber-selfish We also see lots of brinks- vival. (played by Sterling Hayden). who happened to look up as the “Imperial Me” (Peter Sellers), manship between the US and “Even a risk with a very low He’s using his wealth to shield Bomb detonated and “no lon- who is not coincidentally Israel vs Russia, China and/ probability becomes unaccept- himself from involvement ger have faces” and a boy now dressed like a Puritan. He or Iran – threats in the form able when it affects all of us,” in the world and advocate an terrified of thunder. exhorts his “Individual Mes” of assassinations, cyber-at- Nicholas Nassim Taleb wrote. extremely isolationist political Similar suffering is the tar- to kill other survivors for pro- tacks, “freedom of navigation” “There is no reversing mis- ideology based on having “the get of the Ghost of Christmas moting cooperation. Their hate intrusions, weapon tests and takes of that magnitude.” fastest bombers and most pow- Present, first seen gorging blinds them to the impact of sales, even talk of militarizing erful missiles on Earth” tied himself at Grudge’s own well- his clearly stated goal: to have space and building new nukes. I welcome comments on my to the message “we’re not too stocked table. them kill each other and cre- There are also spats between columns; email me at gus. chicken to use them.” As in “I represent the human ate “the world of the Ultimate India and China or Pakistan to [email protected]. most real people, it’s based in race,” he says. “So does glut- Me” – a single last person, “the worry about. fear and loss, namely, the death tony. So does starvation. … Civilization of I.” As the most recent (January of his son Marley in Vietnam, Mankind includes extremes.” In other words, human 2020) “Doomsday Clock” which he blames on “do-good- Present tries to force Grudge to extinction. announcement said, when the

Take the Strategies for “Living by the List” Hint pros and cons of an issue, making a on a wall size whiteboard and check off ing and prioritizing lists. Here are KAREN visual list sorts it all out for easy review items with a thick black marker. These some free ones to check out: TRAINOR and action. The following listing strate- “in your face” visuals of tracking each · Google Docs is perhaps the most gies, ideas, and suggestions reveal how accomplishment throughout the day familiar way to make everything from list making list (and maybe even check- serve to motivate. simple, personal lists to multilevel lists Few simple tasks bring order to chaos ing it twice) can be a valuable tool to ** you can share and use as business task better than making a list. Creating a everyday success. For those who need a jump start to tools. list of “pros and cons” vividly illus- ** begin a manual list, a few simple track- · Online list maker Scribbless.com is trates points for contrast and evalu- Writing it Out: While today’s world ing tools may be all it takes to inspire another free and easy list maker to ation, while crossing off a daily list offers an abundance of internet down- “listing.” Some people enlist the help of build lists to share with your friends of accomplishments (no matter how loads and phone applications to help a day planner or other calendar based and family. mundane) can be a powerful motivator. us track our accomplishments and get notebook to record daily diet, fitness ·IPhone apps to help you organize In fact, most avid list makers take great our lives in order, perhaps none is more or work goals. A fresh legal sized pad and create lists are plentiful online. satisfaction in viewing their options practical and effective than the old fash- or lined notebook also inspires pen to Some are free, such as Remember the and/or daily successes literally laid out ioned pen and paper list. The advantage paper as do long, narrow pads of paper Milk, a capable to-do-list app with some before them. over electronic apps is that you can sim- made for listing. A good, comfortable sharing options included at no cost, Numerous studies reveal lists can ply jot down a list whenever and wher- pen is another valuable aid. In the making it good for household use. greatly benefit the writer far beyond ever the mood strikes. Not to mention a home office or gym, a white board cal- ·For serious list makers, a social net- short term satisfaction. Writing a list paper list can be folded and tucked away endar that displays daily, weekly and work for goal achievers, www.mylifelist. not only has the power to help save time for easy retrieval and review. monthly goals, commands attention org, offers an interactive web destina- and money, but the act of “listing” has If checking off a completed task in a and successes can be easily checked off tion that challenges people to fulfill their been shown to aid memory, prevent pro- “to do” list is a satisfying act, crossing when achieved. major aspirations by creating a life list. crastination and boost decision making it off in a big, bold way is even more ** Through the website, members can cre- skills. effective. To make an impressive visual Free List Maker Software: If you ate a life list, and are motivated to take Whether you want to pay down debt, impact, line out items on a written list prefer to “type it out,” there are many Turn To TRAINOR page ­­­A12 tackle a new project or just lay out the with a bright red marker. Or, make a list applications that support making, shar- ­10 • Thursday, December 17, 2020 Community Connection

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Snyder, in Belmont the son of Walter and Gauthier, 93, of Meadowview Dr., Teresa worked as a secretary at Jr., 89, of Maria Ave., passed away on Bernice (Kuczewski) Snyder, Sr. He passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 8th, in the Valley View Schools in North Thursday, Dec. 10th, in the St. Mary’s was a graduate of Holy Cross College, Care One at Millbury, Brookfield for many years, retiring Health Care Center, Worcester, after Worcester and Boston University Law after an illness. many years ago. She was a longtime an illness. School. He was a US Army Veteran Her husband, member of St. Joseph’s Church in He is survived by of the Korean War; having served Arthur B. Gauthier, Charlton and was a member and past his son, Jeffrey J. in Stuttgart, Germany as a special passed away in president of the St. Joseph’s Women’s Snyder and his wife agent in the US Counter-Intelligence 1988. She leaves her Club. She enjoyed crocheting and rug Lynne of Brimfield; Corp. from 1956 until his honorable daughter, Patricia A. hooking. his daughter, Valerie discharge in 1958. Gauthier of North A funeral Mass for Teresa was held Petraccio and her Walter was a self employed attorney Grosvenordale, CT; on Friday, Dec. 11th, at 11:00am in St. husband James at law for many years. He also served her three sons, Arthur Joseph’s Church, 10 H. Putnam Rd. of Providence, RI; as the lawyer for the Southbridge Gauthier and his wife Ext., Charlton. Burial will follow in his step daugh- Town Council for several years. Karen of Charlton, Paul Gauthier and West Ridge Cemetery, Charlton. A call- ter, Dawn Lavallee Walter was a past state commander his wife Cheryl of Charlton and David ing hour was held on Friday, Dec. 11th, of Southbridge; of the Polish American Veterans of Gauthier and his wife Marie of West in St. Joseph’s Church, from 10:30am his four sisters, Mass and post commander of both Suffield, CT; her sister, Mary A. Wilson to 11:00am prior to the Mass. Elizabeth Kuzmeski the Southbridge and Clinton Polish of Rhode Island; five grandchildren In lieu of flowers donations may and her husband American Veterans and continued and eight great grandchildren. She be made to St. Joseph’s Church, 10 H. Richard of Naples, to be active in veteran affairs. He was predeceased by three brothers, Putnam Rd. Ext., Charlton, MA 01507. FL, Florence Walsh was an avid golfer and a longtime Leo F. Flanagan, John W. Flanagan The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, and her husband member of Cohasse Country Club in and Martin T. Flanagan and a sister, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is Bernard of Clinton, Southbridge. He much enjoyed the Marion L. Vieira. She was born in directing arrangements. Marilyn Freel and many golf tournaments and Patriots Norwood the daughter of Leo F. and www.morrillfuneralhome.com her husband Richard games attended with his son and also of The Villages, enjoyed playing cribbage. FL and Christine His funeral was held on Tuesday, TRAINOR Why? When we work with informa- Webber and her Dec. 15th, from the Daniel T. Morrill continued from page A9­­­ tion, we pay closer attention to it,” she husband Donald of Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., said. Kennebunk, Maine; Southbridge, with a Mass at 10:00am action and encouraged to inspire others In addition, Ms. Green notes that his four grand- in Notre Dame Church of the St. by sharing their successes through sto- making a list is good for overall well children, Miranda John Paul II Parish, 446 Main St., ries, photos and video. being: Snyder, Jason Snyder, Rebecca Snyder Southbridge. Burial was in St. John’s ** “Lists help us feel better. When we and her companion Josh Fowler of Cemetery, Lancaster. A calling hour Rx for Brain Clutter: Research reveals are organized we forget less and do Webster and Amanda Allard and in the funeral home was held on lists can relieve stress by organizing more and generally are more effec- her companion Willy Burrow of Tuesday, Dec. 15th, from 8:30 to 9:30am items and/or tasks. Listing items into tive and productive. Feeling effective Spencerville, IN; his two great grand- prior to the Mass. order not only calms mental clutter, but is important to our self-esteem, since children, Jayla Fowler and Caleb In lieu of flowers donations may be cuts tasks down to a manageable size. we feel better about ourselves when we Fowler; and his former spouses, made to the charity of one’s choice. Making a list can also be good news see ourselves as capable. Being more Rita Domian of Oxford and Yvonne www.morrillfuneralhome.com for procrastinators as a list can be valu- productive means we are making the Blouin of Southbridge. He was born able call to action. From tracking a diet most out of our time, so we have more program to monitoring career success, time to do things we really want to do. This is how list making can help us.” listing can break down goals into work- important not to get carried away and drawing. One winner per month will ** able segments. “Listing out” is often “overlist.” For example, when making win a fabulous three course dinner for From Grocery Lists to Bucket Lists: all that’s needed to jump start a bigger a pros and cons list, each point should two at the renowned restaurant, located Lists can serve as great organizers. project. be short and concise. Stick to basic pos- on Route 131 across the town common Whether you want to recall past accom- Studies show writing and using lists itive and negative points only, to keep it in historic Sturbridge. Because I’m plishments for a resume, or simply need exercises the brain and builds memory. simple and clear. in the business of dispensing tips, not to write a weekly grocery shopping list, In today’s busy world, trying to remem- ** inventing them (although I can take a simple list is a clear and concise tool ber everything is stressful! Placing When making a “to do” list avoid credit for some), I’m counting on you to get the job done. items from your mental memory to a listing more than can be accomplished. readers out there to share your best ** list alleviates stress and offers peace List only tasks that are manageable in helpful hints! Those who “live by the list” advise of mind that the important issues are the time allotted. It’s often better to making both short term and long term “backed up” on paper (or computer). complete a shorter list than to carry Do you have a helpful hint or handy lists. Short term lists, which are com- ** over an uncompleted one. That said, a tip that has worked for you? Do you have pleted daily or within a week include According Cynthia R. Green, PhD, list is a tool to get jobs done, so don’t be a question regarding household or gar- grocery lists, daily “to do” lists, diet a nationally recognized clinical psy- tempted to undercut the tasks. “To do” den matters? If so, why not share them meals, exercise tracking, etc. Long chologist and brain health/memory lists should be challenging, but do-able! with readers of Stonebridge Press news- term lists typically include “bucket fitness expert, making and using a list ** papers? Send questions and/or hints lists” of future accomplishments, work is a memory tool that can “save your Win Dinner for Two at the Publick to: Take the Hint!, C/o the Southbridge projects, home improvement plans, brain.” House Evening News, PO Box 90; Southbridge, career goals, etc. “Using lists, just like using any tech- Your tips can win you a great dinner MA 01550. Or email KDRR@aol. ** nique to boost your brainpower, will for two at the historic Publick House com. Hints are entered into a drawing When writing a list, it’s important focus your attention more actively on Historic Inn in Sturbridge! Simply send for dinner for two at the historic Publick to keep an open mind. While creat- the information you need to remember. in a hint to be entered into a random House Inn. ing a list can boost enthusiasm, it’s

GRANTS Community Development Block Grant distinctly inside this block group” is which can be extended thereafter. continued from page A1­­­ (CDBG) funding process. Dean hosted easier to get CDBG support for. Wrapping up her Nov. 19 hearing, the first of several public hearings Although both need serious work Dean summarized the remaining permanent winterized features for Nov. 19, with the second slated for and River/Crane was one of the DPW in-progress work from fiscal 2018, 19, future farmers’ market and entertain- early in January. The plan is to submit Subcommittee’s priority roads, Dean and 20 grant years. FY18 only has a few ment use of the new pedestrian plaza that application for $825,000 in March said she thinks Cross is better for the last details of the Central Street lot; at Central Street lot. Those will include for work that will happen beginning in grant’s low-moderate income require- FY19 is funding the Main Street proj- stalls, storage, heaters, a sound system spring of 2022. ments, since there are many more ect that began recently and still has and winter-related decorations. Dean said conversation with depart- people living there. money to pay a health inspector job Regarding the second grant, she ment heads and leftover needs from Blakeley agreed, but said the River/ vacant sicne August. FY20 funds have said she wasn’t certain Southbridge prior years helped create this year’s Crane lines are “some of our oldest not arrived yet; normally, they come in is eligible since we’re technically not list of potential projects, but she’s water mains in town” and are now September, but Dean said she thinks a “Gateway City,” but we have most open to public input to modify them too small and not connected; having they got delayed by the state’s focus on of the demographic traits of such or suggest others. At present they are: a loop there would help the system’s Covid-19 relief programs. communities. If that falls through, continuing the code enforcement work overall capacity. Doing Cross Street One of those is also ongoing – the she also applied for a Local Rapid that’s been funded for the past couple would also enable additional work on town’s central role as distributor of Recovery Planning Grant, which has years ($62,000); security and lighting paving, drainage and sidewalks, but $250,000 in microbusiness loans to broader uses. Either way, the goal is upgrades at McCann Field ($100,000); either project would require “cou- firms with five or fewer employees in to hire a consultant and a stipend a transfer station feasibility study pling with other funds,” typically from Southbridge, Sturbridge and Charlton. funded intern to work with the ($40,000); and “a major infrastructure annual Chapter 90 receipts and/or the That’s being coordinated by the Redevelopment Authority to promote project.” There are two options for the account the Council created specifical- Quaboag Valley CDC as “a blind pro- “economic development that’s more latter, both water line upgrades tagged ly for roadwork, she said. cess … first come, first served, based inclusive of minorities” and “more at around $400,000 – along Cross Street There was also some talk of working on eligibility [criteria]” that includes culturally inclusive programming,” and along River/Crane streets. on Hamilton Street, but she advised income, Dean said. she wrote in her Dec. 2 memo to the “We as a town are over 51 percent on waiting until after the state’s down- The Dec. 7 Council meeting also Council. low-moderate income, so, in theory, we town Transportation Improvement approved applying for three public All of those come on the heels of the could have a project that benefits the Project (slated for 2023) gets done. That safety grants totaling about $116,000 fact the town is also starting its annual whole town,” she said. “But it’s hard will improve Hamilton up almost to to fund E-911 dispatcher training and to prove that, so having a project that’s Edwards Street, including water lines, “backfill” the time they’ll be absent. FAMILY DINING & GIFT GUIDE Visit these fine local establishments for great gifts, food, beverages & take-out too! To advertise on this page, contact June at [email protected] or 508-909-4062

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Brunch: 10am-1pm For more info visit www.salemcrossinn.com (508)867-2345 GIFT CERTIFICATES ~ Function Rooms 10-250 Guests ~ Hours: Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 4:00-8:00; Sunday noon-6:00 pm Thursday, December 17, 2020 • ­13 LEGALS NOTICE OF MORTGAGEE’S ner of one Debreuil; easements, restrictions, reservations mo David Creamer a/k/a Guillermo SALE OF REAL ESTATE Thence S. 11 deg. 2 min. West along and conditions of record and subject to Creamer, Maria Creamer a/k/a Maria By virtue of and in execution of the land of Dubreuil and now or formerly all tenancies and/or rights of parties in J. Creamer and to all persons entitled Power of Sale contained in a certain of Arthur Denault, et ux., 439.29 feet possession. to the benefit of the Servicemembers mortgage given by David M. Nichols to an iron pipe; Terms of the Sale: Cashier’s or certi- Civil Relief Act, 50 U.S.C. c. 50 §3901 and Kristina L. Nichols to Mortgage Thence S. 7 deg. 46 min. West along fied check in the sum of $5,000.00 as (et seq): Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., other land now or formerly of Arthur a deposit must be shown at the time U.S. Bank National Association, as as mortgagee, acting solely as a nom- Denault, et ux., 87.63 feet to an iron and place of the sale in order to qualify Trustee for RAMP 2006EFC1 inee for Full Spectrum Lending, Inc., pipe at other land now or formerly of as a bidder (the mortgage holder and claiming to have an interest in a Mort- dated October 14, 2004 and record- Arthur Denault, et ux.; its designee(s) are exempt from this gage covering real property in Stur- ed in Worcester County (Worcester Thence N. 76 deg. 7 min. West along requirement); high bidder to sign writ- bridge, numbered 1 Ladd Road and District) Registry of Deeds in Book other land now or formerly of Arthur ten Memorandum of Sale upon accep- 155 Podunk Road, given by Guillemo 34897, Page 29 (the “Mortgage”) of Denault, et ux., 150.0 feet to an iron tance of bid; balance of purchase price Creamer and Maria Creamer to Mort- which mortgage The Bank of New York pipe at other land now or formerly of payable by certified check in thirty (30) gage Electronic Registration Systems, Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York, Arthur Denault, et ux.; days from the date of the sale at the Inc., as mortgagee, acting solely as a as Trustee for the Certificateholders Thence N. 10 deg. 55 min. East along offices of mortgagee’s attorney, Korde nominee for EquiFirst Corporation, dat- of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed other land now or formerly of Arthur & Associates, P.C., 900 Chelmsford ed November 30, 2005, and recorded Certificates, Series 2004-12 is the Denault, et ex., 497.83 feet to an iron Street, Suite 3102, Lowell, MA 01851 in Worcester County (Worcester Dis- present holder by Assignment from pipe on the Southerly side of Camp or such other time as may be desig- trict) Registry of Deeds in Book 37928, Mortgage Electronic Registration Road; nated by mortgagee. The description Page 62, as affected by a Loan Modi- Systems, Inc. as nominee for Full Thence N. 67 deg. 58 min. East along for the premises contained in said fication Agreement dated October 22, Spectrum Lending, Inc., its successors the Southerly side of Camp Road, mortgage shall control in the event of 2010, and recorded at said Registry of and assigns to The Bank of New York 22.38 feet to an iron pipe; a typographical error in this publication. Deeds in Book 47081, Page 67, and Mellon f/k/a The Bank of New York, Thence S. 84 deg. 28 min. East along Other terms to be announced at the now held by the Plaintiff by assign- as Trustee for the Certificateholders the Southerly side of Camp Road, sale. ment, has/have filed with this court a of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed 96.46 feet to an iron pipe; The Bank of New York Mellon f/k/a complaint for determination of Defen- Certificates, Series 2004-12 dated Thence S. 74 deg. 19 min. East along The Bank of New York, as Trustee for dant’s/Defendants’ Servicemembers August 12, 2015 and recorded at said the Southerly side of Camp Road, the Certificateholders of the CWABS, status. Registry of Deeds in Book 54226, 31.16 feet to the iron pipe at the point Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series If you now are, or recently have been, Page 385, for breach of conditions of of beginning. 2004-12 in the active military service of the Unit- said mortgage and for the purpose of Being the same property as conveyed Korde & Associates, P.C. ed States of America, then you may be foreclosing the same, the mortgaged from Dale J. Hurd and Melissa Jean 900 Chelmsford Street entitled to the benefits of the Service- premises located at 16 Camp Road, Hurd (formerly known as Melissa J. Suite 3102 members Civil Relief Act. If you object Fiskdale (Sturbridge), MA 01518 will McGarry) to David M. Nichols, indi- Lowell, MA 01851 to a foreclosure of the above-men- be sold at a Public Auction at 1:00 vidually, as described in Book 19544 (978) 256-1500 tioned property on that basis, then you PM on December 30, 2020, at the Page 142, Recorded 01/23/1998, in Nichols, David, M., 19-034233 or your attorney must file a written ap- mortgaged premises, more particularly WORCESTER County Records. December 3, 2020 pearance and answer in this court at described below, all and singular the Tax ID: 190-02315-016 December 10, 2020 Three Pemberton Square, Boston, MA premises described in said mortgage, For mortgagor’s title see deed recorded December 17, 2020 02108 on or before 1/18/2021 or you to wit: with the Worcester County (Worcester may lose the opportunity to challenge All that certain parcel of land situate District) Registry of Deeds in Book (SEAL) the foreclosure on the ground of non- on the Southerly side of Camp Road 19544, Page 142. COMMONWEALTH compliance with the Act. in Sturbridge, the County of Worcester The premises will be sold subject to OF MASSACHUSETTS Witness, GORDON H. PIPER Chief and State of Massachusetts, being any and all unpaid taxes and other LAND COURT Justice of this Court on 12/7/2020 known and designated as follows: municipal assessments and liens, and DEPARTMENT OF THE TRIAL Attest: Deborah J. Patterson, Recorder Beginning at an iron pipe on the subject to prior liens or other enforce- COURT December 17, 2020 Southerly side of Camp Road at able encumbrances of record entitled Docket No. 20 SM 001589 the Northeast corner of land herein to precedence over this mortgage, and ORDER OF NOTICE described and the Northwesterly cor- subject to and with the benefit of all TO: Guillemo Creamer a/k/a Guiller- What makes estate personal property valuable?

There are many components able amount. We recently sold of estate assets, with home a collection of mainly gold and land typically being the and silver coins that brought most valuable. Stocks, bonds, nearly $40,000 and sold a base- or bank accounts may be ball card collection a few years worth more in certain situ- ago that sold for over $20,000. ations. Personal property is The time period that the typically the least valuable, person collected their items but there are times when there also impacts the value of per- are some very desirable items sonal property. Over 20 years in the estate. Antiques, ago, we were contacted by a Being an antique estate auc- ollectibles woman who had a large col- tioneer, I focus on antiques, C lection of Barbie dolls and collectibles and other estate & Estates other toys. She was at the age personal property and will where she could’ve begun col- explain in this column what WAYNE TUISKULA lecting when some of the first we look for in determining Barbies were manufactured whether estate contents are and we had high hopes for potentially valuable. selling her items after our con- One factor is how long the family has versation with her. Unfortunately for been in the country. We’ve handled at her and us, she collected all of her toys least one estate where the family came later in her adult life and they had lit- over on the Mayflower. There were tle value. When you’ve collected some- books and documents dating back to thing in your youth, you don’t have to the 18th century. In an estate where worry about fakes and reproductions items have been passed down through in your collection that have become generations, you can usually expect to more prevalent now. find some valuable objects. Many people are uncomfortable The family’s wealth is another when we first meet if the estate they important factor. Some families have are handling is packed with items. the financial means to buy Rolex I assure them that there are never instead of Timex watches and to buy too many items as far as an auction- large sterling silver flatware sets eer is concerned. Even if there aren’t instead of silverplate or stainless a lot of valuable objects, sometimes steel. Even though formal dining isn’t the sheer volume of items can make as popular today, sterling silver flat- an auction or estate sale profitable. ware can be worth thousands. Around 15 years ago, we auctioned One of the rules that most collec- a collection of items from the 1920s tors follow is to collect what you like. through 1960s that a collector had estate. Included is a commercial trac- and other paintings from artist Fay Collectors typically don’t look at their acquired over many years. There was tor, dump truck, motorcycles, other Moore’s estate after the holidays. collections as an investment. However, enough material to fill a box truck. vehicles, a large Coke sign and Ford when the collection is auctioned and Although there weren’t any big-ticket Mustang pedal car. The first session Contact us at: Wayne Tuiskula converted to cash, having collected items, 1950s hair dryers, 1940s house- of the large toy collection from a West Auctioneer/Appraiser Central Mass popular items will benefit the collec- hold items and even circa 1930s rolls of Boylston estate will soon be ready for Auctions for Antique Auctions, Estate tor or their heirs. Some common col- toilet paper combined to bring in tens online bidding. Session I will contain Sales and Appraisal Services www.cen- lectibles like coins, 1960s and earlier of thousands for the consignor. diecast toys. Antique and vintage toys tralmassauctions.com (508-612- 6111) baseball and other trading cards, and We have a small online auction tak- will be in later sessions. You will also [email protected]. comic books can be worth a consider- ing place with items from a Worcester be able to bid online for equestrian BANK of two local, mutual banks joining continued from page A1­­­ together. Prior to reforming to create Cornerstone Bank, SpencerBANK and Pet food/treats Southbridge Savings Bank have proud- Pet toys ly served their customers and com- If it’s Leashes and collars munities in Central Massachusetts Beds or cat towers since 1871 and 1848, respectively. Our Flea and tick treatment Company’s customer promise, Built important Medical supplies on Trust, is not just a brand, but also Cleaning supplies a corporate focus. Whether a business Office supplies or personal partnership, Cornerstone Gift certificates Bank rests on the foundation that rela- to you, All donations will be given to the tionships are built on trust. For all Second Chance Animal Shelter your banking needs, whether personal “We are hoping to make a differ- or business, please visit cornerstone- ence in the lives of people and their bank.com. pets this holiday season, especially with how difficult 2020 has been for many,” said Todd Tallman, President OSV of Cornerstone Bank. “It is important continued from page A1­­­ for us to give back to the communities that we serve and are proud of the future for Old Sturbridge Village as It’s important commitment we have made locally we prepare to launch into 2021 when to provide help to those who need it. we will celebrate our 75th year.” These three drives are just part of Donahue went on to thank all those to us. our on-going mission to do our part in in attendance for their unwavering making the world a better place” support of Old Sturbridge Village not About Cornerstone Bank just during 2020 but throughout all the Cornerstone Bank was formed in years. Special thanks to Savers Bank 2017 and was built on the foundation for sponsoring this first virtual event StonebridgePress.com

­14 • Thursday, December 17, 2020 Dress up your landscape with winter-inspired container gardens

creating or purchasing a holi- color with berry laden winter Garden day planter. Place a couple of holly branches and dried seed winter planters on your front rudbeckias, allium, and cone- Moments steps or dress up your patio, flower seed heads or hydran- deck or balcony and enjoy the gea flowers. Finish off your view from the comfort of your arrangement with a few ever- MELINDA home. Don’t overlook those green cones and a bow. MYERS hanging baskets. Fill them Or add a bit of glitz with with winter greenery to ele- painted and glittered cones, vate your winter containers to twigs, ornaments, or other Clear out your fall contain- a fun new level. holiday adornments. You can ers and make room for some Fresh-cut needled ever- purchase these or create your winter greenery. These plant- greens like spruce, white pine, own with a bit of paint and ers are sure to brighten those fir and broadleaf evergreen glitter. Just make sure your dreary winter days and add boxwood and holly combine materials will hold up to the life to your landscape. nicely to form the backbone of winter weather. Transform weatherproof your container design. Make Once your arrangement is summer and fall containers it easy by using spruce tips complete, water thorough- for winter. Fiberglass, plastic, to create vertical interest in a ly. The moist soil helps keep Photo Melinda Myers container. You only need to set greenery fresh and in place. cement and wood will hold Winter container gardens brighten up the landscape all season long. up to the cold, ice and snow. a few in the center of the pot Once the soil is frozen you can to look like a pro. Surround stop watering. The cold weath- Don’t subject terra cotta and allowed to dry before bringing books, including The Midwest glazed pots to the harsh ele- these with graceful white pine er will help keep your greens it indoors or beginning your Gardener’s Handbook and ments that can cause them boughs to anchor the arrange- looking good throughout the ment to the container. holidays and beyond. arrangement. Small Space Gardening. She to crack. Remove faded fall For additional ideas and flowers and add a bit of pot- Add sprigs of other ever- Extend the life of your hosts The Great Courses “How greens for additional texture greenery with an organic a bit of inspiration, watch to Grow Anything” ting mix to fill the container my Create Beautiful Outdoor within two inches of the top. and shades of green. Next, biodegradable antitranspi- DVD series and the national- it’s time to put your creativ- rant. These materials help Evergreen Containers ly-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Or select a new weatherproof video. You will find more container and fill it with pot- ity to work. For those that seal in the moisture, delaying Moment TV & radio program. prefer a natural look, consid- the browning of cut greens. ways to enhance your land- Myers is a columnist and con- ting mix. scape with winter containers. Consider your overall land- er white birch branches and Always read and follow label tributing editor for Birds & scape design and other out- stems of red twig dogwood, directions carefully. Most Blooms magazine. Her Web site Melinda Myers has writ- door winter decorations when corkscrew willow or contort- need to be applied to ever- is www.melindamyers.com. ed hazelnut. Add a bit more green boughs outdoors and ten more than 20 gardening

REAL ESTATE

Jules T.A. Maureen Ellen John Adrienne Lusignan King Cimoch Therrien Kokocinski James www.LakeRealty.net • www.WebsterLake.net 111 East Main Street, Webster, Massachusetts 508-943-9306 508-987-0767 1-800-552-7444 Licensed in MA & CT

Seasons Greetings - Happy Holidays - The Best of New Years!

SOLD SOLD ON DEPOSIT

WEBSTER – 20 Kunkel Ave! SUNNY SHORES! First Time Offered! 8 Rooms, 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bath Colonial! WEBSTER – 6 Nicholas Circle! 8+ Rm Center Hall Colonial! 1.22 Acres! Sought After Neighborhood! Great DOUGLAS – 102 SE Main St! Start Packing! Spacious 9 Rm Colonial! 2.23 Acres! Center Island Granite Kit w/Soft Close Cabs, SS Appliances! Slider to 24’ Deck! Open Featuring an Applianced Eat-in Cabinet Packed Kitchen! Formal Dining Room! 1st Floor Family Room w/Hardwood Commuter Location Accessible to Many Major Routes! Spacious Stainless Steel Applianced Cabinet Packed Floor Plan! Hickory Wood Floors throughout the Kit, Din & Liv Rms, all w/Recessed Floor! 1st Floor Half Bath w/Laundry! Gleaming Hardwood Staircase to the 2nd Floor w/4 Bedrooms! Master w/ Eat-in Kitchen & Formal Dining Rm! 23 x 24 Frplace Family Rm w/Cathedral Ceiling & Slider to the Huge Deck! Lighting! 1st Flr Office or Possible 4th Bdrm w/Oak Hrdwd Flr! Full Bath in the Hall! 2nd Master Bath & Walk-in Closet! Many Recent Updates including Roof, Central Air, Hot Water Heater, Dishwasher Front to Back Living Rm! 1/2 Bath w/Laundry Closet! The 2nd Floor You’ll Find the Comfortable 12X17 Master Flr w/Full Dble Vanity Bthrm & 3 Comfortable Bdrms, all w/Beautiful Wood Laminate & Refrigerator! Back Deck Overlooks Large Fenced Yard! 7 Zone Irrigation System! Farmer’s Porch! Shed! 2 w/Walk-in Closet & Full Bath w/Linen Closet! 2 Additional Bedrooms plus an Office/Nursery/Bedroom all w/ Flrs! Master w/Cathedral Ceiling, Skylight, Ceiling Fan, Bay Window overlooking the Car Garage w/Openers! This Home has Everything You Need and Then Some! Expandable Basement! Desirable Ample Closets! 2nd Full Bath off the Hall w/Linen Closet! 2.5 Total Baths! Lower Level Ideal for Storage or Back Yard and a Master Bath! Lower Level w/2 Finished Rms, Utility Rm w/Laundry and Half Bath! 3.5 Baths Total! Recent C/Air, Heat & Roof! 24x26 2 Car Detached Neighborhood w/Webster Lake Beach & Boat Ramp Access Nearby! Convenient to Route 395! $369,900.00 Future Expansion! 2 Car Garage w/Electric Openers w/Dble Door Entry to the Basement for Moving Larger Items aka Boys Toys! 2 Z Oil Heat, 2 A/C, Separate Oil Water Heater! Irrigation! Don’t Delay! $418,900.00 Garage! Huge Shed! Nearby Nature Trails & Wallum Lake Beach! $379,900.00

SOLD ON DEPOSIT NEW LISTING ON DEPOSIT WEBSTER LAKE – 112 Gore Rd! NORTH POND! Sucker WEBSTER – 55 Hillside Ave! 7 Rm, WEBSTER LAKE - 20 Bates Point Rd! Middle Pond! Western Exposure w/Panoramic Lake Views! CHARLTON –74 Daniels Road! Completely Renovated 9 Rm, Brook Cove! 8 Rm, 3 Bdrm, 1.5 Bath Ranch is Ready for You! 4 Bedroom Cape! Great Highway Beautiful Sunsets! 7 Rms, 3 Bdrms, 2.5 Baths! Recently Renovated from Top to Bottom! Move-in Ready! 4 Bdrm, 2.5 Bath Gambrel w/Attached In-Law Apt! Picturesque 3.39 Southwestern Exposure! Gorgeous Sunsets! Unique Waterfront! Access! Walk to Memorial Beach! View July 4th Fireworks from Your Professionally Landscaped! Exterior Stonework Front & Back! Open Floor Plan! 1st Level w/Huge Family Acres! Deeded Water Rights to South Charlton Reservoir! Extensive An Open Floor Plan! Lake Views from Nearly All Rooms! 2x6 Backyard! Liv Rm w/Hrdwds, Ceiling Rm w/Lake View & Access out to Stone Patio, 1/2 Bath & Laundry, Travertine Tile Throughout! 2nd Level w/ Updates! House w/New Roof, Siding, Kit, Bthrms, Windows, Int Doors, Construction! Energy Efficient Blinds in Every Room! 4 Oil Tanks Fan & Pellet Stove! Eat-in Kit! Fam Custom Granite Kitchen w/Stainless Steel Appliances, Center Island w/Seating & Large Pantry! Spacious - Fill Up Once a Year! C/Air! Gas Fireplace! Whole House Fan! Rm! Full Bath! 1st Flr Master w/ Living Rm w/Sliders to 14X34 Composite Deck! Dining Area w/Water Views, Hardwood Floors Throughout, Electrical, Flooring, R60 Insulation in Attic, Water Heater, Well Pump Hrdwds & Ceiling Fan! Oil Heat! Vinyl & More! In-Law w/Open Flr Plan, Kit, Bdrm w/Walk-in Closet, Full Meticulously Cared For! Large workshop! 3 Car Garage! Carport! Sided! Younger Roof! Replacement Bath w/Tiled Shower, Guest Bedroom or use as Office! Lake Facing Master Bedroom w/Walk-in Closet & 2 Sheds w/Electric! Back Yard is Perfect for Family Gatherings! Windows! Town Services! Fenced Private Deck! Bathroom w/Double Sinks, Tiled Shower & Separate Tub! Comfortable 3rd Bedroom w/Lots Bath w/Laundry! Both Fully Applianced! 2 New Driveways, Irrigation, Plenty of Off Street Parking! Summer is Here! $539,900.00 Yard! 1 Car Garage! $239,900.00 of Storage! Level Lot w/Room for Entertaining and Enjoying All The Lake has to Offer! $749,000.00 AG Pool! Shed! Security! Generator Hookup! $489,900.00

WAR RELICS & LEE’S COINS & JEWELRY FIREWOOD $ BUY & SELL $ WAR SOUVENIERS LOOKING FOR APARTMENT MACHINIST/ Cut, Split WANTED: ALL GOLD & SILVER 1 Bedroom FOR RENT ITEMS Specializing in MILLWRIGHT POSITION LIVE BAIT & Delivered WWII & EARLIER NUMISMATIC COINS, CASH WAITING! apartment in BROOKFIELD Bullion Items, gold Gavitt Wire is looking to hire a FOR ICE FISHING Green or & silver of any form! Helmets, Swords, Webster 1 BR, 2ND Floor machinist/millwright. Open 24/7 Seasoned Daggers, Bayonets, Qualified with over 30 years Person must be trained in running a Medals, Badges, Will consider Off street parking experience & a following of Spencer Call Paul Rags, Uniforms, etc. surrounding towns many satisfied customers. manual lathe, Bridgeport milling 508-885- 5416 Over 40 years’ Available NOW We also sell a nice selection machine, interpret blueprints, 508-769-2351 experience. Call of fine jewelry, antiques & and have mechanical ability. Electric or collectibles. Bring in your Call David You would be responsible for (508) 688-0847. 508-461-6219 Gas Heat items & see what they are I’LL COME TO YOU! worth. You won’t leave making tools and other machined $580/mo disappointed. Honesty and parts to support production. Has all appliances fairness are our best policies! Lee’s Coin & Jewelry, Monday thru Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm. APARTMENT for RENT No Dogs 239 West Main Street, East Brookfield Any questions, FIREWOOD please ask for Tom or Ray. CHARLTON 3/4 Seasoned/standing dead Call Dave (Route 9-Panda Garden Plaza) 508-637-1236 508-867-6476. 3 room, 1 BR hardwood custom cut to your specs. 413-262-5082 or cell: 508-341-6355 Delivered to your home. country apartment for rent, 2nd floor, $900/mo, 12”-14” $300 per cord. heat included 16-18” $260 per cord. 508-769-6031 Call: 508-282-0232 StonebridgePress.com Thursday, December 17, 2020 • ­15

MEET YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS Perfect for Realtors, Mortgage Companies, Banks, Real Estate Attorneys, Home Inspectors, Chimney Inspectors, Lead Removal businesses, Insurance Companies, etc… any business involved in the buying or selling of real estate. To join this section, please contact your local sales rep, 1-800-367-9898 or email [email protected]

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year Why call the from all of us at Michelle Terry Team Lisa Caron, Call: 508-341-8299 to sell you home? full-time Chauvin Excavating LLC Broker 42 West Main Street Brookfield, MA Quality work since 1986 Associate We have a great marketing plan that includes: 82 Dresser Hill Road, Charlton, MA 01507 GRI, ABR, LMC, Hours: M-Th 9-6, Fri 9-5 and by appointment Ph: 508-248-5772 • Cell: 508-922-0041 CDPE, SRS, • Home staging services YOUR LOCAL Email:bernie@ chauvinexcavating.net SRES, PSA, MRP ~ Notary Public~ • Home warranties REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS TITLE FIVE INSPECTION SERVICES ~ www.lisacaron.com ~ • 3D videos 130 W. Main Street • Professional photography Spencer, MA 01562 Jules Lusignan Michelle Terry • Broker /Owner ERA Key Realty Services #1 in Sales 2006-2020 • Ramped up open houses! “Put 36 years of combined real South Worcester County • And so much more… michelleterryteam.com estate experience to work for you!” $156,908,380.00 SOLD Jules Give us a call today! 508-202-0008 Lusignan A Owner 41 Year Broker Founder Company! Donna Flannery Kayleen Lake ReaLty Webster Lake Million Dollar Views 508-885-6665 Flannery-Sauvageau 111 East Main St., Webster, MA Beacon park unit w/options to donnaflannery.com 508-612-9843 Thinking of selling? Call 1-800-552-7444 [email protected] buy boat slips. View from living, [email protected] www.Century21LakeRealty.com 415B Main Street, Spencer, MA 01562 www.WebsterLake.net dining, bedroom & deck. 1.5 Baths, 1200 sq.ft. garage Beacon Park #103~ $324,900 My properties are selling! Jo-Ann Szymczak 774-230-5044 Yours could be NEXT Diane Luong 774-239-2937 ReMax Advantage 1 if you list with me! Call me and Maria Reed 508-873-9254 25 Union St., Worcester MA 01604 let’s put SOLD on your listing! FREE CALL FOR A MARKET ANALYSIS Licensed in MA & CT Buy with Confidence. Sell with Success. OPEN HOUSE LISTINGS DorrindaSellsHomes.com CENTURY 21 when you advertise NORTH EAST Dorrinda O'Keefe - Shea OFFICIAL SPONSOR in this section Realtor OF THE BOSTON BRUINS [email protected] 978.434.1990

Century 21 XSELL Realty Auburn Dudley Worcester XSELL REALTY (774) 772-7072 (508) 461-7550 (508) 795-3880 Novembers’ Single Family Homes Real Estate Market DUDLEY November 2019 November 2020 Trend Median Price $244,950 $297,450 m Market Volume $2,583,300 $3,133,407 m # of Homes Sold 10 10 k Avg Days on Market 73 25 n AUBURN Median Price $259,000 $339,000 m REAL ESTATE Market Volume $4,008,000 $7,929,500 m # of Homes Sold 14 24 m Avg Days on Market 48 28 n Contact us to find more about your neighborhood market & what your home is worth! Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

PUT YOUR TRUST IN US

Juliana Danquah Angela Clark Jillian DeGrace Doreen Gagliastro Mary McCarthy Diane Strzelecki Johnny Wariebi Antonia Vaughan TEAMWORK AND EXPERIENCE (508) 335-5339 (508) 410-1319 (860)315-3636 (774) 757-2313 (978) 270-1401 (508) 335-2384 (508) 335-5076. (617) 373-0053 Jo-Ann Szymczak 774-230-5044 Our Commitment to you  Integrity  Hard Work  Excellent Service Diane Luong 774-239-2937 Maria Reed 508-873-9254 ReMax Advantage 1 25 Union St., Worcester MA 01604 CALL FOR A MARKET ANALYSIS Licensed in MA & CT Make the move! SOUTHBRIDGE 14 ACRES Find the homes of your neighborhood

Picturesque and serene this staycation home has more amenities than you could hope for. 14 acres w/ 1300 square foot building ideal for car collector, business, or hobbies. Grounds include a small pond w/ cabin & outdoor pizza oven. Custom Built 2800 sq. ft. cape with 4 bedrooms and four full baths. Second level sitting room or office overlook a living room w/ gas fireplace & hard- wood floors. A view of the grounds from the cherry cabinet kitchen with eat-in area overlooks the pond and woods where wildlife wanders about. There is a formal dining room and a first floor Master Bedroom Suite with a rear deck with a window to nature. The lower level offers a grand surprise: a wine tasting room and saloon with wooden floor, bar, and wood ceiling. What a hand to be dealt...comfort and additional living area including another bedroom, bath, and family room. Need a private workspace, the 1300+sq.ft. heated building perfect for office or business. Enjoy fishing you’re just steps from your pond. 268 Dresser Hill Rd ~ $729,900 • Shown by appointment only. GOT A HOUSE FOR SALE? This is the place to sell it! Your ad will be mailed to 50,000+ households throughout Southern Worcester County.

To advertise on our real estate section, please call your local sales representative at 1-800-367-9898 ­16 • Thursday, December 17, 2020 Baker orders rollback of COVID reopening process

BY KEVIN FLANDERS said. “Hospitals are short on critical includes the following: places and gyms. In offices, employees STAFF WRITER staff because many people are either Patrons must wear masks at all must wear masks at their place of REGION – With COVID-19 numbers in quarantine or they themselves have times, except when eating and drink- work when not in their own work- heading in the wrong direction, Gov. been infected with the virus.” ing space. Employers are encouraged to Charlie Baker announced last week The return to Step 1 requires the Restaurants must seat no more than close down or limit the use of break a statewide reversion to a previous closure of certain businesses, includ- six patrons per table rooms. reopening threshold. ing indoor performance venues and Restaurants must impose a 90-min- “We continue to encourage all As of Dec. 13, all towns in high-contact indoor recreational busi- ute time limit on tables employers to offer teleworking to their Massachusetts were required nesses. In addition, capacity limits Musical performances at restau- employees when possible,” Baker said. to return to Phase 3: Step 1 of the will be reduced to 40 percent statewide rants will no longer be permitted Patrons must wear masks at all Commonwealth’s reopening plan. The for most industries, and the limit on Food court seating must be closed times in gyms. mandate also reduces indoor capaci- outdoor gatherings will be reduced in malls During the latest weekly state report, ties across a broad range of sectors of statewide from 100 persons to 50 per- Restaurant patrons are encouraged Leicester, Spencer, North Brookfield, the economy. sons. to dine only with members of the and several other area communities Baker announced the rollback in The Baker Administration also same household. As much as possible, were listed in the state’s “red zone” for response to a sharp increase in new announced additional guidance for utilize take-out or delivery services to COVID-19 transmission risk. COVID-19 infections and hospitaliza- certain sectors, including restaurants, help minimize risks. Local officials remind residents to tions since Thanksgiving. State offi- office spaces, and gyms. Moving for- “These new measures are designed wear masks in public at all times and cials are worried that a continued ward, all hosts of outdoor gatherings to prevent infection and viral spread, avoid large private gatherings. escalation of cases through the holi- featuring more than 25 people will be especially in indoor settings,” Baker The Worcester field hospital at the day season could cause many hospitals required to provide advance notice of said. “They will create stronger mask DCU Center has already begun accept- to reach capacity for ICU beds. the gathering to their local board of compliance, more social distancing, ing patients. A second field hospital “More people are suffering from health. and limits to the time spent with peo- was set up in Lowell. severe COVID-related illnesses and Meanwhile, indoor theaters and per- ple outside of your immediate house- For more information on statewide need urgent care. This sharp increase formance venues will be closed until hold.” efforts to combat COVID-19, visit www. is putting a strain on our health sys- further notice. The Baker Administration also mass.gov. tem and healthcare workers,” Baker Restaurant-specific guidance announced new guidelines for work- Davone Dj Charlton REAS Foundation, Inc. Keovongmanysar of announces 2021 fundraisers Southbridge named to CHARLTON – Due to the applications for the 2020-2021 01507. COVID pandemic, the Charlton heating season which began on The Charlton REAS REAS Foundation will not be Oct. 1 and will run until March Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit Clarkson University’s able to have our annual Taste of 31. organization providing qualify- the Towns. This was our main Assistance for this program ing senior citizens in the Town fundraiser so now we must look would not be possible if it of Charlton with energy assis- Dean’s List at alternative fundraising. We weren’t for our annual fundrais- tance including heat during the will continue with the lottery ers and the generous donations winter months and air condi- POTSDAM, N.Y. — edge and intellectual curi- calendar and draw names in of local businesses, organiza- tioning or support with electric Davone Dj Keovongmanysar osity needed to innovate March. Lottery calendars are tions and individuals. Thank bills during the hot summer of Southbridge a freshman world-relevant solutions just $10 each and are available you for your support and please months. majoring in civil engineer- and cultivate the leaders at the Charlton Senior Center, know your donation can make Charlton REAS Foundation ing, was named to the Dean’s of tomorrow. With its main or download from the REAS a difference in the lives of our Board of Directors: Debra List for the fall 2020 semes- campus located in Potsdam, website at www.reascharlton. most vulnerable citizens. Ciesluk, Ed Ciesluk, Michael ter at Clarkson University. N.Y., and additional gradu- org. If you need assistance or you Cunningham, Ray Delisle, Carl Dean’s List students must ate program and research Last year, the Charlton REAS know someone who does, please Ekman, Darlene Emco-Rollins, achieve a minimum 3.25 facilities in the New York Foundation awarded 36 qualify- call 508-868-5289. If you’d like Dorothy LaChance, Elaine grade-point average and Capital Region, Beacon, ing seniors citizens with heat- to send a donation, address to Materas, Katherine Pariseau, also carry at least 14 credit N.Y., and New York City, ing/cooling assistance totaling Charlton REAS Foundation, Jean Vincent, Sabrina Webb. hours. Clarkson educates 4,300 $13,150. REAS is now taking P.O. Box 793, Charlton, MA As a private, nation- students across 95 rigor- al research university, ous programs of study in Clarkson is a leader in tech- engineering, business, the Harding Trust supports Senior tax rebate nological education and arts, education, sciences Wales food pantry applications welcome sustainable economic devel- and health professions. Our opment through teaching, alumni earn salaries that BRIMFIELD — Brimfield’s Harding Trust Monday scholarship, research and are among the top 2.5% in Fund has given a $2,500 grant to the Wales innovation. We ignite per- the nation and realize accel- Community Pantry for Christmas meals. SOUTHBRIDGE — The Town of Southbridge sonal connections across erated career growth. One In November, the Food Bank provided meals to will be accepting applications for the 2021 Senior academic fields and indus- in five already leads as a 631 individuals in Brimfield, Holland, and Wales. Tax Rebate Program beginning Monday, Dec. 21 tries to create the entrepre- CEO, senior executive or The Harding Trust Fund was founded in at the Community Center. neurial mindset, knowl- owner of a company. 1919, and is funded by donations. This year, the Southbridge home owners over the age of 60 Trustees ask that donations be sent directly to are eligible to volunteer to work 65 hours for the Wales Community Pantry, as it is not a merry the municipality in exchange for a one-time Tax If it’s important to you, Christmas for those with an empty plate. Credit/Abatement on their real estate taxes. Please call Pat Haddock at 508-764-1469 to make It’s important to us. an appointment to apply. StonebridgePress.com

www.StonebridgePress.com Thursday, December 17, 2020 • ­17 18 • Thursday, December 17, 2020 Quaboag Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center

FOR A LIMITED TIME: We have CNA scholarships available to the right applicants. Please inquire for further information.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Quaboag Rehabilitation We are grateful to be a part of this wonderful community. Thank you for “social distancing” to keep us all safe. We hope you’ll consider Quaboag as your next career move. Positions Available Assistant Director of Nurses Wound Care Nurse • Evening Supervisor New FT 7p-7a Nurse FT 3p-11p Nurse Higher FT 7a-3p CNAs FT/PT RCAs Rates! Maintenance Worker What our employees have to say… “One of my favorite things about working at “I am Definitely glad to be a part of the team as Quaboag is that you can tell the staff is here well. I feel like I’m home and everyone has been because they care about the patients. I have also wonderful.” – Nicole V. (LPN) found that my supervisor and administrator are “In the time that I have been working at Quaboag very approachable when I have any concern. There I have witnessed the well-being and comfort of are a lot of places where someone in a supervisor the residents as the main priority of the facility. position is not that approachable.” — Nicole F. The facility is centered around patient care and is (CNA) designed in the best interest of the residents.” — Lynnea T. (CNA) We offer Great Benefits! We are a • Health and Dental • Flexible schedules Deficiency-Free • SIGN-ON BONUS ($5000 SIGN-ON BONUS community FOR 7P-7A NURSES FOR A LIMITED TIME) • Referral Bonus facility (for when you bring a friend) in a beautiful • Education Reimbursement small town with a family feel.

For more information please contact: Julie Stapleton at 508.867.7716 Or apply online at: quaboagonthecommon.com Santa’s New Ride Your sweetheart would 2019 BMW love this too! 430i xDrive

I-4 cyl, AWD, “Hard Top” Convertible, 19” Wheels, Navigation, Neck Warmers, LED Lighting and more… Original MSRP was $ 63,110. Stk CU9467 $46,999

Please see salesperson for details on: 0% for 72 months on many new 2020 models PLUS BIG rebates! Large Selection of Pre-Owned vehicles at HUGE SAVINGS! Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! from all of us at

QUALITY SELECTION • QUALITY SERVICE • QUALITY DEALER

366 E. Main Street, Rte. 9 East Brookfield 877-LAM-FORD or 508-885-1000 ~ SALES HOURS ~ Monday-Friday 8:30am-6pm • Saturday till 2pm ~ SERVICE HOURS ~ Monday-Friday 8am-5pm • Saturday till Noon Visit us on-line at www.lamoureuxford.com