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VOL. 86 NO. 151 $1.00 THURSDAY,TUESDAY, DECEMBER JUNE 27, 2017 24, 2020 VOL. 75 cents 89 NO. 306 Additional COVID orders start Saturday Gathering and capacity limits Baker said the fall decrease in COVID cases gather, and COVID will spread. went by the wayside following Thanksgiving “We’re likely to see another increase in cases reduced for at least two weeks and the spike has caused hospitalizations to sky- and hospitalizations unless we play this very dif- rocket. As of Tuesday, Baker said there were ferently that we all played it at Thanksgiving,” By HOPE E. TREMBLAY 3,760 new cases in the state, with 1,991 patients said Baker, adding that the intent of the new Editor in hospitals, 410 of which are in intensive care orders was to “pause activity and reduce mobil- BOSTON – In an effort to slow the spread of units. ity.” COVID-19 post-holidays and not overwhelm He said the new orders were “for just one “I think most important thing we want out of hospitals, additional guidelines are in effect year,” and asked residents to celebrate this is to make absolutely clear to people that the starting Dec. 26 for at least the next two weeks, and New Year only with those in their own best and most safe thing we can all do for the said Gov. Charlie D. Baker. household. He said if people had “plans to do next few weeks is to spend as much time with Baker said Dec. 22 that the new capacity limit anything other than that,” they were urged to fol- those we live with as possible and to not treat the for many businesses will be 25%, outdoor gath- low all guidelines for distancing, face covering, period between Christmas and New Year’s the Gov. Charlie Baker erings will be limited to 25 people and private hand washing, etc. way we normally do, which is a constant race to speaks to the media on the Covid-19 indoor gatherings reduced to 10 people. “Remember the people you’re safest with are connect with, catch up with, hang out with, grab situation in Mass. on Dec. 22, 2020. “This is part of what we must do during this the people you live with every day,” he said. a drink with, grab a meal with, all those people (STAFF PHOTO BY STUART CAHILL/ crucial period when the vaccine is just months Baker said what they learned from MEDIANEWS GROUP/BOSTON away,” said Baker. Thanksgiving gatherings was that people will See COVID Orders, Page 3 HERALD)

Free community Mayor Humason meal offered Dec. 26 on the Green looks forward By HOPE E. TREMBLAY Editor to a new year WESTFIELD — Growing up, Gerson By AMY PORTER Nivar’s family showed their love and sup- Staff Writer port with food, and now he wants to do the WESTFIELD — “When I same. came into office last January, Nivar’s Salt and Light Ministry is provid- I thought it would be a nor- ing a free community meal Dec. 26 at the mal year,” Mayor Donald F. fountain in Park Square Green from 4-6 p.m. Humason Jr. said this week All are welcome. as he looked back at 2020 Nivar founded Salt and Light Ministry five and forward to a new year. years ago, an organization he started “to Then COVID happened, spread as much of the love of God as I and the city and the schools could.” (From top to bottom, left to right) Advance Manufacturing owner Jeffrey shut down. Several positions Salt and Light Ministry aims to help those Amanti, Westfield Technical Academy Student Service Director Rob Ollari, also opened up in City Hall who are struggling, regardless of religion or Mayor Donald F. WTA Career Technical Education Director Pete Taloumis, WTA Principal Joe due to retirements. situation. Humason, Jr. Langone, WTA Assistant Principal Kevin Daley, Hunter Loomis, John Sytek, “We’re almost back to full “The organization came about after I over- and Jaideliz Adorno pose for a picture on the steps in front of Advance strength,” Humason said. In the past year, a new came my struggles with addiction and men- Manufacuring. (DENNIS HACKETT/THE WESTFIELD NEWS) Westfield Barnes Airport manager was hired, and tal illness – I’m five years clean and sober. Humason said he was happy that former Airport God loved me when I was at my worst, so Manager Chrisopher WIllenborg returned. “It was now that I am better, I just want to pay it CO OP CORNER: great to have him back on board, he didn’t need a lot forward. The food came about because I of training,” he said, adding that he has also worked came from a cooking family and that’s how for the state Department of Transportation’s Aviation we show love and hospitality.” . Nivar said Westfield, as a community, has Advance Manufacturing The city has also hired a new auditor, Vicki Leigh given him so much and he wants to give Moro; a new emergency management director, back. By DENNIS HACKETT While Sytek and Loomis work Staff Writer hands-on in investigations and grind- Stephen Malochleb, and most recently a new person- nel director, Robert Bishop, who started a few weeks See Community Meal, Page 5 WESTFIELD — Despite the tempo- ing, Adorno said she works in the rary switch to remote learning in office. ago. “He’s got a lot of plans,” Humason said about Westfield Public Schools, students at “I do the office work, like scanning Bishop, including working on unified COVID track- the Westfield Technical Academy are and going through the ‘op sheets.’ I do ing for the city. still participating in their co-ops a lot, so it’s hard to keep track of every- Humason said the only major position outstanding throughout the city and beyond, includ- thing,” she said. at this point is the Department of Public Works direc- ing three students currently working at While Sytek said he has had an easy tor. He called it a super department; many depart- Advance Manufacturing. time adjusting to school and work, ments overseen by one person. Humason said there At Advance Manufacturing, two stu- Adorno and Loomis said it was diffi- have been a couple of candidates but not enough. He dents in the manufacturing technology cult to adapt. said the two boards in charge of hiring, the Water program, Hunter Loomis and John “In terms of adjusting to both, it’s Commission and Public Works, are extending the Sytek, along with one student in the been quite easy for me. The biggest search. Meanwhile, he said Acting Director Francis business technology program, Jaideliz thing is time management, but school Cain is doing a good job, and got through the first Adorno, are currently working as part is no problem,” Sytek said. snowstorm well. of the co-op with the Academy. “You have to have good time man- Another open position he would like to fill in the Loomis, who has been at Advance agement,” Adorno said. mayor’s office this year is a City Advancement since May, said he is currently working “It’s pretty difficult handling both, Officer, last held by Joseph Mitchell. “This year is the in the grinding department. but I can still get the job done,” Loomis year that I’d like to see that position return,” he said, “I work on grinding down different said. adding that he would like to find someone from tools to work on different parts for the Each of the students said they were Westfield or the region, who is familiar with the city. machines,” he said. all hoping to gain more experience and Right after the new year, Humason will start work- Sytek said that as part of his co-op, learn all about their career fields ing on the new budget in January and February. The he works in the investigation depart- through the co-ops, and said they were state didn’t sign this year’s budget until December, ment at Advance. happy to continue working during and he wonders if next year they will do it in July as “I inspect all sorts of parts coming remote learning. usual. through, including for submarine and Loomis summed up the entire “The state spent $1.7 billion of its rainy day fund on aircraft — pretty much everything group’s thoughts on selecting Advance this year’s fiscal budget – more than half of what they coming through. We use different and touted the business. have in reserve. They can’t do that again,” Humason Gerson Nivar and his daughter Arianna instruments and gauges to be able to “It’s a great company, it’s got awe said. He said going into next year, the city’s projec- will offer free hot meals to the community tell different sorts of tolerances and tions will probably be tentative once again and based Dec. 26. (GERSON NIVAR PHOTO SUBMITTED) specifications,” he said. See Advance, Page 3 See Mayor Humason, Page 5 WRITERS’ SERIES: Operation Donuts By LORI SZEPELAK Line, and Story Friends. often, they’re chatting amicably among Correspondent She is currently working on new mag- themselves – strangers united by one Editor’s note: 2020. While we have all azine pieces, picture book texts, and a common goal. These are the one day a experienced changes to our daily lives YA novel. She also writes 10-minute year unsung heroes of Southwick and during the past year due to the COVID- plays and belongs to many writers’ orga- Westfield. Proudly stepping into line, 19 pandemic, we are also hopeful about nizations. they acknowledge their impressive rank: what is coming for all of us in 2021. On Her submission is titled “Operation Family Donut Runner, First Class. that note, the Westfield News once again Donuts.” Our family has such a dedicated man, asked members of the WhipCity Have you ever had such a craving for my sister’s husband John. He braves the Wordsmiths to share some impressions a fresh, old fashioned donut that you’d crowds year after year to ensure his wife, and reflections for a writers’ series which risk anything to be at Mrs. Murphy’s daughter, and every one of his in-laws continues today with Lynnmarie May of Donuts even on the morning of December has our favorite pastries for the family Westfield. twenty-fourth? If so, then you’ve seen Christmas breakfast. As far as I know, no WESTFIELD — Lynnmarie May has them. one’s ever asked John if he likes donuts. had work published in literary journals Waiting patiently in line, they’re The first year of his and Susan’s mar- and local papers as well as in many chil- almost always men. They’re either riage he had the twenty-fourth off from Picking up donuts on Dec. 24 at Mrs. Murphy’s Donuts in dren’s magazines including Cricket, standing stiffly, staring straight ahead in Southwick has been a tradition for many families for years. Clubhouse, Ladybug, Babybug, On the that man-on-a-mission stance or, more See Operation Donuts, Page 3 (SUSAN BUFFUM PHOTO) PAGE 2 - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS

Southampton Road School Southwick Library connects PTO members gather for a group picture patron to his past before Friday’s SOUTHWICK – The Southwick Public Library staff have been “Light Up Your working hard to be a bright spot in the community amidst all of the Holiday” event hardship 2020 has brought. The library has been open for computer use and browsing by appointments since mid-July. Since the beginning of June, patrons have been able to request to have items put out curbside for them. “We hope we have been able to provide for the community’s educa- tional and entertainment needs during this time. Whether this be a non-fiction book to help with a homework assignment or a novel to escape into during a very hard period or a fun virtual trivia program” says Library Director Lynn Blair. “We have a wonderful staff who has been dedicated to providing our patrons with the services they need and want. We have been faced with a difficult time, but we are chang- ing and adapting every day.” One librarian was able to provide one of Southwick’s patrons some holiday cheer a little early this year. Southwick resident and World War II veteran George Harvey called Southwick Public Library with a special request. “It seems that someone threw away two of my high school year- books. Would you be able to get two new copies for me? I went to high school in Highland Falls, . I’m looking for 1944 and 1945.” His high school had since changed buildings and names. What was formerly Highland Falls High School, was replaced by a new building, James I. O’Neill High School, in 1971. Often times, memorabilia may be lost in the move, or a high school may only keep books up to a certain year. The odds of replacing these lost memories seemed slim, but Young Adult Librarian Heather Paparella understood that fulfilling the request would mean a lot to Mr. Harvey. So, she took a chance. She looked up Library Media Specialist, Sheri McNair, at the new high school in his hometown and emailed her asking for the name of the yearbook publisher of those years. Perhaps the publisher would be willing to provide additional copies for purchase. Sheri wrote back promptly, stating that the books had been published by T. O’Toole & Sons, Inc. Lithographers, based in Stamford, CT. After doing some research, it seemed that the only available record ‘Light Up Your Holiday’ of this company was provided by the Connecticut State Library- dated in 1935. Contacting the publisher for additional copies was a dead end Southampton Road School families celebrated the holidays Dec. 18 with a drive-through event featuring lights and as it appeared the company had gone out of business. She tried another route of looking for copies available on the online Santa. (MARC ST. ONGE/THE WESTFIELD NEWS) marketplace, but with no success. Making this wish come true was looking like a long shot. In a twist of fate, Sheri wrote back again and said that she checked storage for their alumnus, and found an extra copy of the 1944 year- book! However, they didn’t have any extra copies of the 1945. Thankfully, Sheri went the extra mile and copied- page by page- 1945 edition for our patron! She even bound and covered it. James I O’ Neill High School gifted both books to him, with a warm note included. Mr. Harvey was thrilled. “They did a wonderful job making and binding the yearbook. And thank you so much for getting these copies for me. It was really kind of you all.” “I can’t stress enough what a wonderful staff we have here at the Southwick Public Library. Ms. Paparella took the initiative to go above and beyond for one of our patrons and was able to provide him with something that will bring him much happiness. These little acts of kindness are seen every day by our staff, going out of their way to Santa and Mrs. Claus bring presents to Chase Kaminsky provide needed assistance,” says Blair. and mom Jessy at the holiday event at Southampton Mr. Harvey received the gift just in time for the holidays. Some Road school. Cars line up for the “Light Up Your Holiday” event. books have a lifetime of meaning, and who better understands this than a team of librarians? Police Logs Major crime and the officer reports that a second tractor trailer had to be towed out of Court Logs incident report the snow; Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020 7:59 a.m.: disabled vehicle, East Bartlett Street, a caller reports WESTFIELD that her vehicle is stuck in the middle of the roadway due to the Westfield District Court 2:55 a.m.: disabled vehicle, Servistar Industrial Way, a patrol heavy snow, the responding officer reports that the vehicle was no Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020 officer reports that there is a tractor trailer that is unable to move due longer stuck in the snow and had left the area, the officer reports that No cases were adjudicated on this date because to the snow on the roadway, causing a backup of tractor trailers the same operator was found with her vehicle stuck again on Westfield District Court was closed due to inclement behind it, the officer reports that the Department of Public Works Mechanic Street, the officer reports that the operator was advised to weather. plowed the roadway and the tractor trailer was able to leave the area, return home until the roads could be properly cleared of snow.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY Thurs., Dec. 24, 2020 is the 359th day of the year. 7 days remain until the end of the year.

ed States Military Academy begins quered by the British Eighth Army. 1973 – District of Columbia Home 2018 – A helicopter crash kills Martha ON THIS DAY that night, wrapping up the following 1942 – World War II: French monar- Rule Act is passed, allowing resi- Érika Alonso, first female Governor morning. chist, Fernand Bonnier de La Cha- dents of Washington, D.C. to elect of Puebla, Mexico, and her husband 502 – Chinese emperor Xiao Yan 1846 – British acquired Labuan from pelle, assassinates Vichy French their own local government. Rafael Moreno Valle Rosas, former names Xiao Tong his heir designate. the Sultanate of Brunei for Great Brit- Admiral François Darlan in Algiers, 1974 – Cyclone Tracy devastates governor. 640 – Pope John IV is elected, sev- ain. Algeria. Darwin, Australia. eral months after his predecessor's 1851 – The Library of Congress in 1943 – World War II: U.S. General 1980 – Witnesses report the first death. Washington, D.C., burns. Dwight D. Eisenhower is named Su- of several sightings of unexplained TODAY'S BIRTHDAYS 759 – Tang dynasty poet Du Fu de- 1865 – Jonathan Shank and Barry preme Allied Commander for the In- lights near RAF Woodbridge, in parts for Chengdu, where he is host- Ownby form The Ku Klux Klan. vasion of Normandy. Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk, Eng- 1958 – Gene Sperling, American ed by fellow poet Pei Di. 1868 – The Greek Presidential Guard 1945 – Five of nine children become land, United Kingdom, an incident 820 – Emperor Leo V is assassinat- economist is established as the royal escort by missing after their home in Fayette- called "Britain's Roswell". 1959 – Lee Daniels, American ed in the Hagia Sophia at Constanti- ville, West , is burned down. – Air France Flight 8969 is hi- King George I. 1994 director and producer nople and is succeeded by Michael 1871 – The opera Aida premieres in 1951 – Libya becomes independent. jacked on the ground at Houari Bou- II. Cairo, Egypt. Idris I is proclaimed King of Libya. mediene Airport, Algiers, Algeria. 1960 – Glenn McQueen, 1144 – The capital of the crusader 1906 – Radio: Reginald Fessenden 1952 – First flight of Britain's Handley Over the course of three days three Canadian-American animator (d. County of Edessa falls to Imad ad- transmits the first radio broadcast; Page Victor strategic bomber. passengers are killed, as are all four 2002) Din Zengi, the atabeg of Mosul and consisting of a poetry reading, a vio- 1953 – Tangiwai disaster: In New terrorists. 1961 – Mary Barra, American Aleppo. lin solo, and a speech. Zealand's North Island, at Tangiwai, 1997 – The Sid El-Antri massacre businesswoman, current CEO 1294 – Pope Boniface VIII is elected, 1913 – The Italian Hall disaster in a railway bridge is damaged by a la- in Algeria kills between 50 and 100 and chairwoman of General replacing St. Celestine V, who had Calumet, results in the har and collapses beneath a passen- people. Motors resigned. deaths of 73 Christmas party par- ger train, killing 151 people. 1999 – Indian Airlines Flight 814 is 1500 – A joint Venetian–Spanish fleet 1961 – Wade Williams, ticipants (including 59 children) when 1964 – Vietnam War: Viet Cong oper- hijacked in Indian airspace between American actor captures the Castle of St. George on someone falsely yells "fire". atives bomb the Brinks Hotel in Sai- Kathmandu, Nepal, and Delhi, India. – Jay Wright, American the island of Cephalonia. 1914 – World War I: The "Christmas gon, South Vietnam to demonstrate The aircraft landed at Kandahar in 1961 1737 – The Marathas defeat the truce" begins. they can strike an American installa- Afghanistan. The incident ended on basketball player and coach combined forces of the Mughal Em- 1920 – Gabriele D'Annunzio surren- tion in the heavily guarded capital. December 31 with the release of 190 1962 – Kate Spade, American pire, Rajputs of Jaipur, Nizam of Hy- dered the Italian Regency of Carnaro 1964 – Flying Tiger Line Flight 282 survivors (one passenger is killed). fashion designer (d. 2018) derabad, Nawab of Awadh and Naw- in the city of Fiume to Italian armed crashes after takeoff from San Fran- 2003 – The Spanish police thwart an 1963 – Jay Bilas, American bas- ab of Bengal in the Battle of Bhopal. forces. cisco International Airport, killing attempt by ETA to detonate 50 kg of ketball player and sportscaster 1777 – Kiritimati, also called Christ- 1924 – Albania becomes a republic. three. explosives at 3:55 p.m. inside Ma- 1963 – Mary Ramsey, American mas Island, is discovered by James 1929 – Assassination attempt on Ar- 1966 – A Canadair CL-44 chartered drid's busy Chamartín Station. singer-songwriter and violinist Cook. gentine President Hipólito Yrigoyen. by the United States military crashes 2005 – Chad–Sudan relations: Chad 1800 – The Plot of the rue Saint-Nic- 1963 – Neil Turbin, American 1929 – A four alarm fire breaks out in into a small village in South Vietnam, declares a state of war against Su- singer-songwriter aise fails to kill Napoleon Bonaparte. the West Wing of the White House in dan following a December 18 attack killing 129. – Mark Valley, American 1814 – Representatives of the United Washington, D.C. 1968 – Apollo program: The crew of on Adré, which left about 100 people 1964 Kingdom and the United States sign 1939 – World War II: Pope Pius XII Apollo 8 enters into orbit around the dead. actor the Treaty of Ghent, ending the War makes a Christmas Eve appeal for Moon, becoming the first humans to 2008 – The Lord's Resistance Army, 1965 – Millard Powers, American of 1812. peace. do so. They performed ten lunar or- a Ugandan rebel group, begins a se- bass player, songwriter, and pro- 1818 – The first performance of "Si- 1941 – World War II: Kuching is con- bits and broadcast live TV pictures. ries of attacks against civilians in the ducer lent Night" takes place in the church quered by Japanese forces. 1969 – Nigerian troops capture Democratic Republic of the Congo, 1966 – Diedrich Bader, of St. Nikolaus in Oberndorf, Austria. 1941 – World War II: Benghazi is con- Umuahia, the Biafran capital. massacring more than 400. American actor 1826 – The at the Unit- THE WESTFIELD NEWS WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 - PAGE 3 Operation Donuts Continued from Page 1 Advance work so he made the run to Mrs. Three people ahead, seven jelly donuts Continued from Page 1 Murphy’s. Perhaps, in an unchecked left. This is not a task for the faint of some benefits, and the people here are awesome,” he said. moment of enthusiasm on becoming a heart or newbies who don’t realize the Jeffrey Amanti, owner of Advance Manufacturing and general advisory chair for the academy, said the member of our family, or for being cheerful counter staff are also keeping students have done an excellent job working with the company. asked to perform such an important a close eye on inventory. A tray of still “The kids coming out of this program are not only learning manufacturing, they’re learning life skills. mission, or maybe simply being a per- warm honey dews comes out, causing They’re well-mannered, they come to work on time, they don’t goof off, they’re very disciplined, well- fectionist, he made the rookie mistake a few in the queue who’ve been eying rounded kids coming in here and working with us,” he said. of getting the order perfect. It’s been those now four jelly donuts to feel a With schools switching to remote learning at least through Jan. 18, Amanti said he was happy students his day before Christmas job ever few skipped heartbeats. But a newly could still come and work. since. filled tray of plump, powdered jelly “The more time they have working with us or working in the shop at school, the more skills they It’s a stressful task, this keeping the donuts is then quickly added to the develop. We are very fortunate they are welcome to come here. We’ve been very safe and lucky through donut order straight, but he accom- racks and all is well with the world. this whole pandemic. We’re lucky to have these kids working with us during this time,” he said. plishes it without question or com- Established in 1976, Earl and Rose Amanti added that Advance’s partnership with the academy is invaluable. plaint. Not only does he take this Murphy most likely never imagined “There is a lack of skilled labor in this industry and Westfield Technical Academy is one of the pre- assignment in stride, but he goes in their old fashioned, hand cut donuts miere training centers for manufacturing,” he said. “We rely on the school to train the employees — we without a list, knowing exactly who would become such a holiday tradition have probably about 40 to 50 percent of our employees came out of the Westfield Technical Academy wants what. Without any teasing, for so many families. There’s nothing – and this program, this program is invaluable to us.” raised eyebrows, or comment, and fancy about the building at 538 College despite hearing “Only one for me this Highway in Southwick. There’s noth- year!” the man knows the truth and ing flashy when you walk inside the comes through. No one can say my shop with the best donuts in New sister didn’t marry well. The guy’s a England. But regular customers know COVID Orders natural, a born donut runner. what’s waiting in store for them. Continued from Page 1 Faced with cases of Long Johns, cin- Mission accomplished! Each desig- namon twists, muffins, danish, cheese nated donut runner leaves the counter you haven’t seen since the last time you saw them Christmas Eve or Christmas Day,” the governor said. pockets, and cookies, these dedicated holding at least one box of donuts and last year,” Baker said. “Now, it’s perfectly possible to do that safely. And chosen few keep cool under pressure. usually a cup of coffee and a small bag Baker said adhering to the new guidelines for at we would hope people would follow the rules, follow There will be no variations from the holding a favorite treat as a reward for least the next two weeks would help “build a bridge” the guidance, do the things we’ve talked about if they list today. The family can try some- a job well done. until vaccines roll out to the public. choose to do that.” thing new another day. One can never From the long lines on December Baker said he chose the day after Christmas to start The new capacity limits affect restaurants, movie lose sight of the prime directive, twenty-fourth and watching all the the new orders so that people can worship. theaters, performance venues, casinos, offices, places Christmas morning has to start right. boxes and bags leaving the shop, Mrs. “Honestly, the main reason we picked the day after of worship, retail businesses, fitness centers, health They watch the donut trays straight Murphy’s Donuts is clearly one of the Christmas instead of the day before Christmas was, clubs, libraries, golf facilities, driving and flight ahead of them, silently keeping count sweetest Christmas traditions in we know that many people, hopefully, will partici- schools, arcades, museums, and “sectors not other- as the jelly donuts begin to dwindle. Southwick and Westfield. pate in a faith service of some kind — safely — on wise addressed.”

We wish you a very Happy Holiday season and a peaceful and prosperous New Year!

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160 East Street Southampton, MA 100 Elm Street, Westfield, MA 413-527-9091 413-485-1251 gotcider.net whipcityfiber.com PAGE 4 - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS COMMENT Small business grants meet small fraction of demand By KATIE LANNAN State House News Service BOSTON - As Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday announced small business grants that would flow to more than 1,000 small businesses hit by the COVID-19 crisis, he encouraged people interested in seeing more aid to call their state law- makers and urge them to pass measures that would help more companies in need of assistance. The nearly $49 million in grants, administered by the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation, will go to busi- nesses that are owned by people of color, women, veterans, LGBTQ individuals and people with disabilities, Baker said. Further breaking down the awards, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito said 94 percent of the 1,158 businesses are minority-owned and 76 percent women-owned, with more than a third of recipients operating in gateway cities. Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy said the grantees include 262 personal care providers, 217 restaurants and nearly 100 retailers. Transportation Emissions Compact starts with room to grow The small business grant program was announced in October, and Baker said there were an "exceptionally large By COLIN A. YOUNG dents of Massachusetts." in studies as recently as this year did not number of applicants" -- more than 10,000, seeking more State House News Service The reduction in emissions will almost include those price protections that have than $500 million in relief. BOSTON - Though only Massachusetts certainly come at a cost to drivers in the been a key component of programs like and three of the 13 state and city govern- form of higher gasoline and diesel prices the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative "The funds for the first round clearly didn't cover the ments that had been part of discussions passed along from the distributors. Energy and are absolutely a critical component of ground associated with those who applied," he said. around creating a regional effort to staunch and Environmental Affairs Secretary this program," she said. Baker said the $45.9 billion state budget he signed on Dec. vehicle emissions along the East Coast Kathleen Theoharides, who chairs the TCI Even if the average price of a gallon of 11 includes another $17.5 million for the Mass. Growth agreed Monday to be part of the program coalition, said Monday that updated mod- gasoline increases by 9 cents in Capital Corporation for more small business grants, and the from the get-go, Gov. Charlie Baker said eling projects the potential cost to con- Massachusetts, the Bay State could still agency will "soon" select recipients of a second round of it is "a pretty good place to start." sumers to be about five cents per gallon have cheaper gas than other neighboring funding from the initial applicant pool. Twelve states and Washington, D.C. with "an absolute maximum estimated at states that have not agreed to join TCI. A supplemental spending bill that Baker filed the day he began the process more than two years nine cents." The average price of gas here was $2.17 a signed the budget proposes $49.4 million in small business ago of developing a regional "cap-and- At 5 to 9 cents, the estimated increase in gallon Monday, AAA said, which would grants, representing about half the funding for a recovery invest" program to reduce carbon pollu- fuel costs for drivers falls below the high- rise to $2.26 per gallon under the "abso- program that Baker had recommended in his budget but tion from cars and trucks and generate the end forecast of 17 cents per gallon that lute maximum" that Theoharides outlined which the Legislature did not fully include in its version. resources needed to expand clean transit TCI states gave last year. The Center for Monday. At $2.17, AAA said the average "While we understand the budget process was immensely options and improve public health. On State Policy Analysis at Tufts University price was up 5 cents over last week. Monday, the leaders of four jurisdictions has suggested it could be even higher At a post-TCI average price of $2.26 challenging this year, we believe we can afford this addi- -- Massachusetts, , depending on how aggressive states per gallon, Massachusetts would still have tional funding, and we hope the Legislature will act soon on Connecticut and Washington, D.C. choose to be in reducing emissions. cheaper gas than New York (average this assistance," Baker said. "Even with the additional fund- -- signed on to be the program's initial While numerous energy and environ- $2.30 as of Monday), New Jersey ($2.35), ing that I just mentioned, we know the need far exceeds these members. mental groups praised the states that and ($2.53). It would be resources." The program would set a limit on vehi- signed the initial TCI framework Monday, essentially the same as the current average Along with the recent $107.4 million supplemental budget cle emissions, and hold auctions for fuel much of the opposition focused on the price of gas in , $2.25 per gallon, (H 5177), which was referred to the House Ways and Means suppliers that transport gasoline into possibility of gas price increases for con- but would be more than a dime higher Committee last Monday, Baker also singled out an economic Massachusetts and other states to pur- sumers and businesses. than New Hampshire's current average development bill that has been tied up in private conference chase allowances for every ton of carbon "The same small businesses that have price of $2.14 per gallon. committee talks since July 30. dioxide that the fuel they are carrying faced shutdowns, countless restrictions, The potential cost of the program for A Democrat-controlled conference committee, chaired by would emit when burned. new regulations, and capacity limits will consumers scared off New Hampshire a House Ways and Means Chairman Aaron Michlewitz, has yet "It's my hope that over the course of the now face higher fuel costs due to year ago -- Gov. Chris Sununu called it a to reach consensus on the sweeping jobs bill, which also next couple of years you'll see additional Massachusetts joining the TCI," "financial boondoggle" -- and opponents people come aboard, but you got to start Christopher Carlozzi, Massachusetts argue the emissions reductions sought by includes sports betting language and zoning reforms that somewhere," Baker said Monday after- director of the National Federation of the cap are not worth the impact on gas Baker has long sought in hopes of spurring housing produc- noon. "The price of doing nothing is very Independent Business said. He added, prices, particularly because TCI's own tion. big." "Higher fuel costs as a result of TCI will projections previously showed emissions Baker said he would "urge people to contact their state rep Baker continued: "If you think about not just impact struggling small business- were on track to decrease by 19 percent by or their state senator" and ask them to advance both the the amount of money that the federal gov- es attempting to grow jobs and rebuild the 2032 even without any action from the spending bill and the economic development bill. The legis- ernment, state government and local gov- shattered Massachusetts economy, it will compact states. lative session concludes on Jan. 5, leaving just over two ernments spend these days on weather hurt the wallets of workers who must A year ago, Theoharides said the TCI weeks, including the Christmas and New Year's holidays, for events -- far more significant weather commute to their jobs in vehicles every coalition had not examined how many lawmakers to get bills to Baker's desk. events than anything anybody used to see day." states it would take to make a regional "The clock is ticking on the end of the session with respect on a very regular basis. I mean they had Trade groups representing the "retail pact work, but said that a "critical mass" to that, but the clock is also ticking for businesses here in the the most brutal hurricane season they've fuels industry" -- the National Association of participation from the original 12 states commonwealth that would benefit from those resources if we ever had through the south this year, the of Truck Stop Owners, National and the District of Columbia would be could get them across to our desk, sign them, and put them droughts in and the high winds Association of Convenience Stores and necessary to make TCI successful. translated into fires and an overhang asso- the Society of Independent Gasoline "One of the big pieces for us is getting to work," Baker said. ciated with fires that you could see across Marketers of America -- flatly claimed, as many states on board as we can," she The governor said he also expects support for small busi- most of the American west. We have "The TCI program, as currently construct- said last December. nesses from the roughly $900 billion stimulus deal many instances here in Massachusetts and ed, will not work. The program will result On Monday, she said having Congressional leaders agreed to on Sunday, and that "what- around the rest of New England where in higher costs without any meaningful Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut ever resources land in Massachusetts, we'll work as quickly flash storms will flood out whole parts of environmental benefit." and Washington, D.C., onboard repre- as we possibly can to turn them around and move them out some of our downtowns for days and The New England Convenience Store sented enough of a critical mass and that the door." sometimes a week at a time where people Owners and Energy Marketers Association the TCI program "can absolutely be effec- Baker said he hopes Congress quickly gets a bill to don't have to make the investments to said its concerns about the design of the tive with three states and the District of President Trump for him to sign into law. clean up the mess but don't actually get to program were not addressed in the MOU Columbia." "The support is a welcome present for so many people here the point where they make the investment signed Monday, particularly around the "The states and the District participat- in Massachusetts and around the country who need it to help that would make that area resilient so that point of regulation and "the lack of clari- ing in this program are getting the same build a bridge between here and the successful implementa- it wouldn't happen the next time it occurs." ty" for allowances. emission reductions that were expected if The coalition settled on a carbon emis- tion of a widespread, safe and effective vaccine," he said. "NECSEMA and its members under- all states joined and significant proceeds sion reduction target of 26 percent by stand the importance of reducing emis- to invest back into clean transportation in Four days before Christmas, Baker said he and other offi- 2032, which could add an estimated 5 to 9 sions from the transportation sector, but our economies and in our transportation cials are "basically begging everyone to stay within their cents to the price of a gallon of gas, getting it right is more important than systems," she said. "All four of us have immediate household" for holiday celebrations because, with according to officials involved in the acting swiftly. This program's lack of state and city goals, aggressive goals, in hospitals facing immense strain from rising COVID-19 effort. The program is expected to gener- detail for regulated businesses and allow- terms of reducing climate emissions, cases, the state "simply can't afford to have another spike, ate annual proceeds for the participating ance availability does not instill confi- improving public health and then invest- one of the largest in the United States, take place after the governments that could exceed $366 mil- dence, and, most importantly, risks upset- ing in clean transportation choices. And Christmas holiday while we're still dealing with the spike lion by 2032. That money would be rein- ting an essential industry while affecting this program allows us to do that, allows that came from Thanksgiving." vested into low-carbon transportation ini- the public," the organization said. "This us to get things started while continuing to "We'll have more to talk about on this soon," he said. tiatives, clean energy and public health impact has the potential to go well beyond work to get other states on board so they Baker said he's "currently reviewing additional steps that we improvements. the cost to consumers by disrupting the can realize those same benefits in their can take to try to minimize the impact of all this." "Reducing transportation pollution is of free flow, availability and competitiveness states." "But the tools that we have available at our disposal won't paramount importance if we are to meet of motor fuels." Though only three states and D.C. our climate commitments and protect The Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance, signed the MOU on Monday, Delaware, stop the virus alone," he said. "We continue to need every- frontline communities. TCI will provide which has been a vocal opponent of TCI , New Jersey, New York, North one, and I mean everyone, to think really hard about the valuable investment opportunities to for months, said Massachusetts' participa- Carolina, Pennsylvania, Vermont and consequences of the actions that they take throughout the rest accelerate progress for economy-growing tion in TCI dooms any future aspirations Virginia all signed a statement of sup- of this holiday season." clean transportation vehicles, systems, of Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito. port for the concept of TCI and pledged to and infrastructure by leveraging private "With Gov. Charlie Baker and Lt. Gov. continue to partner with states that sign capital and innovation," New England Karyn Polito supporting TCI and entering onto the compact. Clean Energy Council President Peter Massachusetts into the scheme, I don't see Sen. Michael Barrett, the Senate chair Rothstein said. a path for either of them being able to win of the Telecommunications, Utilities and Among the other groups that welcomed an election in 2022. People are hurting Energy Committee, said Monday that he the news Monday were Our Transportation right now and the administration's obsti- was disappointed in the paltry number of The Westfield News Future, Environmental League of nance on this issue is insensitive to their states that have signed onto TCI and said A publication of The Reminders Publishing, LLC Massachusetts, Mass. Taxpayers plight and tone-deaf to their ongoing he wants Massachusetts to consider, as a Foundation, Massachusetts Business struggles," Mass. Fiscal spokesman Paul Plan B, joining an existing market for Mike Dobbs Barbara Perry Roundtable, NAIOP Massachusetts, Craney said. "TCI is bad policy and even carbon with California. Managing Editor Sales Manager Ceres, the Union of Concerned Scientists, worse politics." "You'd get critical mass for trading pur- the Metropolitan Area Planning Council, TCI is a central part of Baker's transpor- poses and present a more attractive propo- Hope E. Tremblay Alliance for Business Leadership, tation and climate agenda, and is "critical" sition to the states that are holding back," Editor James Johnson-Corwin Multi-Media Manager MassPIRG, the 495/MetroWest to the efforts that will be needed to he said. Partnership, and more. achieve his administration's goal of net- Senate President Karen Spilka wel- Chris Putz Marie Brazee Sports Editor "Massachusetts has a proud history of zero emissions by 2050, Theoharides said. comed the news Monday that Business Manager national leadership on major public policy Mass. Fiscal cited the Center for State Massachusetts would be among the initial issues and Governor Baker has main- Policy Analysis at Tufts University report states to launch TCI and said she expects Fran Smith Lorie Perry tained that tradition by becoming a found- General Manager that found the cost of TCI on drivers could that other states will soon follow suit. Director of Ad Production ing signatory to a program that will make be as high as 38 cents per gallon and said "I believe that Massachusetts needs to real progress on climate change, one of it would expect the cost to "likely be much look at all policy through the lens of cli- 181 Root Road, Westfield , MA 01085 the most pressing issues of our time," higher" since a fraction of the states mate change and its long-term effects, and Chris Dempsey, director of Transportation joined. But Theoharides said the program so I applaud our efforts to enter into a for Massachusetts, said. "Perhaps more includes protections "in terms of ensuring regional TCI MOU," she said. "The MOU (413)562-4181 importantly, he has created a program that that prices won't raise above sort of a five- is such a positive start for our region, and www.thewestfieldnews.com will bring significant public health, envi- to-nine-cents range." I do believe that if we build it, others will ronmental, and economic benefits to resi- "Some of the price projections that were come." THE WESTFIELD NEWS WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 - PAGE 5 Obituaries Contact roxanne@thewestfieldnewsgroup • 413-562-4181 / Ext. 118 Obituaries online at: westfieldnews.com/categories/obituaries

Rose E. (Bosley) Bandy BELCHERTOWN — Rose E. (Bosley) Bandy, 89, died Monday, December 21, 2020 in a local nursing home. She was born in Albany, NY on July 12, 1931 to the late Carl and Florence (Hazelton) Bosley. She Boldyga participates in Wreaths Across America spent most of her life in Albany, NY and spent her school years in Westfield. She enjoyed being placement of 1.7 million veterans’ wreaths a homemaker and crocheting. COLUMBIA FALLS, Maine — On obstacles presented and remaining She was pre-deceased by her Dec. 19, National Wreaths Across focused on the mission over the last husband Louis A. Bandy, her America Day at 2,557 participating year. From the individual Location son Gilbert Weaver and her sib- locations, dedicated Americans in every Coordinators working with local offi- lings Mabel Bosley, Marguerite Barber and Betty state honored our nation’s heroes by cials on modified wreath placement Royland. Rose leaves her son Wilbur Weaver of Florida, safely placing a total of 1.7 million plans, to the professional truck drivers her daughters Penny Rowell of Westfield, Robin Roberts veterans’ wreaths on their headstones who have been keeping this country of Belchertown, her siblings Marion Bosely, Carl Bosley and remembering them, by saying each moving but found time to help deliver and Evelyn Figueroa all of Westfield. She also leaves name out loud. Southwick State Rep. these truckloads of respect, each person grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great- Nicholas Boldyga was among the vol- has played an important a part in the grandchildren. unteers placing wreaths at the Veterans mission to Remember the fallen, Honor All services are private. Firtion-Adams funeral service Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. those that serve and their families, and is in charge of arrangements. Firtionadams.com “The 2020 theme for Wreaths Across Teach the next generation the value of America has been ‘Be an American freedom. Katherine Ann Gunn worth fighting for,’ and this year I have Each live, balsam veteran’s wreath is SOUTHWICK — Our beautiful Kate (1979 – 2020) been blessed to see my fair share,” said a gift of respect and appreciation, passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 11, Karen Worcester, executive director of donated by a private citizen or organi- 2020 in Southwick, Massachusetts. Kate was born on Wreaths Across America. “The deter- zation and it is placed on graves by February 13, 1979 in Bridgeport, Connecticut. She spent mination of the American people and volunteers as a small gesture of grati- the first ten years of her life with her parents and three their commitment to the mission to tude for the freedoms Americans enjoy. brothers in Southbury, Connecticut. In 1989 the family Volunteers, including State Rep. Nicholas Remember, Honor, Teach, made it pos- For centuries, fresh evergreens have relocated to Doylestown, Pennsylvania where Kate Boldyga, place wreaths Dec. 19 at the sible for us to move forward this year, been used as a symbol of honor and attended Lenape Middle School and C.B. West High Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. safely. We are humbled, and forever have served as a living tribute renewed School. She graduated in 2002. (NICHOLAD BOLDYGA PHOTO) grateful for the outpouring of support annually. Wreaths Across America Kate had a heart as big as the sun and was happiest from all across the country.” believes the tradition represents a liv- when she was with her family. She loved being in the veteran out loud, when placing a wreath, it Wreaths Across America would like ing memorial that honors veterans, midst of the loving bantering with her brothers with her ensures they live on in our memory. For to thank the dedicated volunteers in active duty military and their families parents interjecting childhood memories. If there was more information, visit www.wreath- every state for overcoming the many and when volunteers say the name of a anything you wanted to know about movies, Kate could sacrossamerica.org. tell you. She, along with her mother, was a movie maven with a standing weekly movie date. She also loved trivia and could talk about anything. Kate will be forever missed by her parents, David and Mayor Humason Barbara Gunn, her brother Jonathan Gunn and family: Continued from Page 1 wife, Cindy, and children Jaimeson, and Dash, her brother Bob Gunn, and her brother Brian Gunn and his on moving numbers until the city receives the actual st ate aid, He said as Senator for 11 different cities and towns, he had the daughter Kaylee. She has left a huge hole in all of our which is its third biggest source of revenue. chance to get to know many different communities. “I see that hearts. Humason said while it may be a repeat of this year, he will have we here in the city have a lot going for us. I’m grateful that Services for Kate will be announced at a later date. the benefit of having already gone through the city budget once. we’re in that position.” “I’ll know better what I’m doing,” he said. Humason talked about working very closely with Public The Mayor said he is also hoping for a healthy Free Cash num- Health Director Joseph Rouse and his board. “I think Joe and his ber to rely on to augment the budget, and pay for one-time capital team have had a really good finger on the pulse here in the city,” needs projects. Free Cash has not yet been certified by the he said, adding that decisions were always made in conjunction Ward 5 Municipal Light Board vacancy Department of Revenue, which normally would have been done with the Health Department, with an eye on keeping kids in WESTFIELD - Due to the resignation of the Ward 5 by now, but is delayed. school as much as possible and keeping them safe, the ultimate Municipal Light Board Commissioner, there is an opening to Something Humason talked about on the campaign trail that goal. fill the remainder of the term for the Ward 5 seat. The City hasn’t been done due to COVID is to look at a new master plan He said he also appreciates the close working relationship Council along with the Municipal Light Board is accepting for Westfield. He said they may be able to take money from Free with the City Council, the Council President, Finance and letters of intent and professional resumes to fill the vacancy. Cash and hire an outside consultant to work with government, Legislative & Ordinance committee chairs, and his excellent If you are interested in being considered for the position, education, the private sector and community development. His staff at City Hall. please send your letter of intent and professional resume’ to interest is in involving residents as much as possible to learn what “For a year that we anticipated was going to be a real disaster, City Clerk Karen M. Fanion, 59 Court Street, Westfield, MA they would like to see for the city, and how they would like to see we’re ending better than anticipated,” Humason said, adding 01085 or at [email protected]. it grow. that next year will be difficult, but at least vaccinations are In order to qualify for the position, you must be a registered “It’s been 50 years since the city has had a master plan. It’s not anticipated. voter and live in Ward 5. All letters of intent and professional a bad idea to have a roadmap for the future,” Humason said. resumes’ must be received by 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 31, Also in the works is a new elementary school at Franklin Send your local briefs to The Westfield News 2020. The position will be filled at a joint public meeting of the Avenue. Humason said he would also like to establish a commit- City Council and Municipal Light Board to be held Jan. 7, tee to look at a new police station. WESTFIELD — Now, more than ever, our readers want to 2021 at 6 p.m. “In the end, this year turned out to be a better year for city know about your business. As we slowly bring back local busi- Applicants will be given up to five minutes to give a public government than we anticipated at the beginning. We thought it nesses, it is important to share what you offer, when and how statement relative to their interest and knowledge of the posi- was going to be far worse because of COVID,” Humason said. He people can make purchases or utilize your services and just tion. All interested applicants will be sent the Zoom login said he put forward a conservative budget in the spring, based on know that you are open. information prior to the meeting. an anticipated cut to local aid and not knowing the state would dip Are you hosting online events or offer remote services? We into its rainy day fund. want to know! “We came out with a pretty good budget figure,” he said, one Send your briefs and photos to pressreleases@thewestfield enhanced by grants received from COVID and non-COVID news.com related funds. He said the fact that they were able to keep tax rates Community Meal fairly constant makes Westfield more competitive. He is also hop- ing to get another improvement in the city’s bond rating this year. Continued from Page 1 Humason said that for the small businesses and restaurants that “I graduated from a little ‘no-strings attached’ are struggling, Community Development Director Peter J. Miller and his team are trying to reach out to Westfield businesses, “to Westfield State and that love,” he said, “but my love do whatever we can as a city to support them.” meant a lot to me because I of feeding folks stretches As a mayor, Humason missed being able to go to events and was the first in my circle of way back. I used to drive celebrations in the city this year, although he was able to attend a close family to graduate col- around Holyoke at night and few ribbon cuttings, he said. lege, I work in Westfield, and hand out meals and now that One of those was for Cannabis Connection, the first of four Westfield was the place I live and work in Westfield I marijuana retail license holders to open in the city, along with where I got my first apart- want to contribute to my cultivators and even some labs. Humason said although he was ment after getting my life community here as well. not supportive of legalizing recreational marijuana when he was we’re open! Visit us in our NEW Showroom! together,” he said. Westfield has been showing in state government, the residents of Westfield voted for it, and we’re open! Visit us in our NEW Showroom! Nivar and his 13-year-old me love for many years.” they are and will be part of the businesses that make up the com-we’re open! Visit413.731.0610 us in our NEW Showroom! daughter, Arianna, will be Nivar said he will be cook- munity here. He said it’s good for the city, along with the manu- • doing the cooking and dis- ing a lot of food and will 138 Memorial413.731.0610413.731.0610 Avenue West Springfield, MA facturing and retail that make up Westfield’s business and indus- www.MemoryLaneLamps.com tributing of the meals. hand out hot meals until they try. 138138 Memorial Memorial Avenue Avenue •• West Springfield, Springfield, MA MA “We are also hoping to are gone. There is no pre- “I want to make Westfield as successful a city as possible to live www.MemoryLaneLamps.com hand out fresh socks as well registration; just show up. in and work in. There’s so much to love about it,” Humason said. www.MemoryLaneLamps.com to those who need them. I know that sounds weird but I have been doing outreach to the homeless for some time now and realized that the In Loving Memory most prized gift was always fresh socks so that always stuck with me,” he said. “The event is not specifically to the homeless, though. Anyone is welcome to enjoy a warm meal: Rich, poor, young, old, housed, home- less, well-groomed or not. If Roy E. Pease Michael Pease Steven Pease Jeffrey Pease they’re hungry, I hope they 12/1/99 9/8/16 3/31/08 11/27/08 come. If they’re not hungry Merry Christmas at the moment and could use a meal at home, I hope they Mom, Dad, Syl Merry Christmas come.” Nivar said this has been a and Michael To All e Pease Men. rough year and he wants to help. Love You Always, Always In Our Hearts. “I recognize that this year has been really hard on a lot From All Your Family Love You Always, Jennie, Susan, Carole, of people and maybe they are Thomas, Megan, Amy and Ritchie in need of a good hot meal or maybe just need to be shown PAGE 6 - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS Celebrate the holidays at Bright Nights SPRINGFIELD — Bright Nights at Forest that indicate they are valid through January 3, Park has been making holiday memories for 2021, will be accepted through January 6, 26 years. Some of the most memorable 2021. moments have been made on holiday nights. This year, Bright Nights at Forest Park is Bright Nights at Forest Park will continue the illuminated by the generous support it has tradition of being open on Christmas Eve, received community partners. They are AAA Christmas, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s – Pioneer Valley, American Eagle Financial Night. The lights will be lit at 4:45pm and the Credit Union, American Medical Response, entrance will close at 9:30pm. Balise Auto, Baystate Health, Big Y World The many magnificent displays that line the Class Markets, C & S Wholesale Grocers, three-mile drive include Seuss Land, Winter Charlie Arment Trucking Inc., Comcast, Woods where the deer leap over the passing Eversource Energy, Gleason Johndrow cars, the majestic Barney Mansion which is Landscaping, Health New England (HNE), often confused for a real house, Jurassic iHeart Media, MassLive, MassMutual, Mercy World with its mighty dinosaurs, North Pole Medical Center, MGM Springfield, MP PC, Village with Santa’s playful elves, Victorian PeoplesBank, The Republican, Smith & Village, Winter Garden, Garden of Peace, the Wesson, Springfield Thunderbirds, and Giant Poinsettia Candles, Happy Holidays WWLP-22News. Springfield, the delightful Leaping Frog and The Spirit of Springfield has been present- more. ing Bright Nights at Forest Park in conjunc- Bright Nights at Forest Park will be wel- tion with the Springfield Department of Parks, coming visitors through January 6, 2021. To Buildings and Recreation Management since follow COVID-19 safety protocols, tickets 1995. must be purchased in advance. They are For more information about Bright Nights available online at brightnights.org and at Big at Forest Park, visit brightnights.org. Y World Class Markets. Pre-printed tickets

Berkshire Bank announces $130,000 Donation to Food Banks PITTSFIELD - Berkshire employees and customers ciation and respect for the Bank, a purpose-driven 21st- live and work. impact they have on our com- century community bank "At Berkshire Bank, we are munities." with locations primarily in committed to supporting our About Berkshire Bank New England and New York, neighbors in need," said Lori Berkshire Bank is trans- announced that its Foundation Gazzillo Kiely, Senior VP, forming into a 21st-century will make $130,000 in dona- Foundation Director and community bank as it pursues tions to Food Banks in com- Regional President. "This purpose-driven performance munities across its markets to pandemic has resulted in an based on its Be FIRST corpo- address the increased demand unprecedented number of rate responsibility culture. for food assistance resulting people finding themselves Berkshire Bank provides from COVID-19. These addi- food insecure, many of them business and consumer bank- tional contributions raise the for the first time. We are ing, mortgage, wealth man- bank’s financial commitment proud to team up with our agement, investment, and (TRINITY HEALTH OF NEW ENGLAND PHOTO) to addressing food insecurity local food banks to play a insurance services. The Bank to more than $180,000 in small role assisting individu- has approximately $12.6 bil- 2020. als impacted by making this lion in assets and operates Trinity Health of New England administers COVID-19 The pandemic has severely donation on behalf of our 130 branch offices in New impacted all of the communi- employees and customers England and New York, with vaccine to more than 1,100 healthcare workers ties that Berkshire Bank during the holiday season." an agreement to sell its eight serves, and food insecurity Kiely, added, "We would Mid-Atlantic branches. HARTFORD – Since the first shipment of ending this global health crisis. The vaccine is remains a considerable need. like to recognize and thank Headquartered in Boston, the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine our best defense against stopping the spread As a result, food banks face all those currently working Berkshire Hills Bancorp arrived at its Saint Francis Hospital location of COVID-19 long term. I'm encouraging my significant increased demand on the front lines to help our (NYSE: BHLB) is the parent on December 15, Trinity Health of New family and everyone I know to get the vaccine for services. These funds will most vulnerable community of Berkshire Bank and is a England has administered the first available as soon as supplies are available for them, allow food banks to continue members meet their basic member of the Bloomberg COVID-19 vaccine to more than 1,100 health too." to support the local food pan- needs during this challenging Gender-Equality Index. To care workers, including the organization's Trinity Health of New England continues to tries that directly provide time. Berkshire Bank employ- learn more, call 800-773- president and CEO, Dr. Reginald Eadie, co- follow CDC Advisory Committee on emergency relief and feeding ees regularly volunteer with 5601 or follow us on chair of the Connecticut Governor’s COVID- Immunization Practices (CDC ACIP) and assistance in the communities their local food banks and Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, 19 Vaccine Advisory Board. Department of Public Health guidelines on where Berkshire Bank pantries and hold deep appre- and LinkedIn. Through a detailed and comprehensive phased distribution. We are also following COVID-19 vaccination program for col- CDC recommendations for vaccine prioritiza- leagues and other health care workers through- tion, including ensuring health care workers out Connecticut and western Massachusetts, who provide direct care to suspected or con- distribution of the vaccine continues at Saint firmed COVID-19 patients and wish to be Francis Hospital, Johnson Memorial Hospital, immunized, as well as residents of senior care Saint Mary’s Hospital and Mercy Medical facilities, receive the COVID-19 vaccine first. Center. From there, the vaccine will be distributed to "I have full confidence in the safety and all other colleagues and to community mem- efficacy of the vaccine,” said Reginald Eadie, bers based on CDC ACIP prioritization and M.D., president and chief executive officer of vaccine supply made available to us. Trinity Health Of New England. "I am proud ——— of our Trinity Health of New England team Trinity Health of New England urges every- who are working tirelessly ‘behind the scenes’ one to continue to follow current safety mea- to ensure an efficient, safe vaccination pro- sures. It is crucial that we all remain vigilant The rules are quite simple: choose the winner from every game on the Sunday slate. The entrant with the most gram day in and day out, allowing colleagues with avoiding crowds, practicing physical wins will be deemed the weekly winner. winning entry must also beat the Putz. The total combined points from within our health care system and beyond distancing, mask wearing and hand hygiene. the Sunday night game will be used to break any ties. If any ties still remain, a random drawing will used to de- termine the sole winner. Entry forms must be postmarked and mailed OR DRO PPED OFF to: reminder publishing, access to the vaccine if they choose to receive People who are vaccinated must also stay 181 Root Road, westfield, Ma 01085 or emailed to: [email protected] every Friday before that it. Today, I publicly received the first dose of committed to CDC safety guidelines until weekend’s football games by 11:59 p.m. One entry per household. Each weekly winner will be entered into a the vaccine as my personal contribution to there is widespread vaccination. drawing held at season’s end. If less than 6 weeks of the 2020 pro football season is played due to Coronavirus, protests, or any act of God, there will be no end o f season drawing prizes awarded. In the event of a game not being completed, that game will not be considered in the final tabulation for that week’s games.good luck! Entry Forms will appear in the printed edition of The Westfield News daily Monday thru Friday, and weekly in Holiday Schedule at Westfield Gas + Electric/Whip City Fiber The Pennysaver, East Longmeadow Reminder, Agawam Reminder, Easthampton Reminder and Chicopee Herald. The Putz’ Picks and winners will be published in the Saturday edition of the Westfield News and in the following WESTFIELD — In recognition of the upcoming holidays, the offices of Westfield Gas + week’s editions of The Pennysaver, East Longmeadow Reminder, Agawam Reminder, Easthampton Reminder and Electric/Whip City Fiber will be closed on Thursday, December 24 and will re-open on Chicopee Herald. Picks and winners will also be posted on TheWestfieldNews.com and on TheReminder.com Monday, December 28 at 8:30 AM. For the New Year we will be closing at noon on Thursday, WEEKLY PRIZE: $25 GIFT CERTIFICATE TO DELANEY’S MARKET. December 31 and reopening on Monday, January 4 at 8:30 AM. The Dispatch team is always – ALL WINNERS WILL BE ENTERED IN OUR END OF SEASON DRAWING – available at (413) 572-0000 for any emergency with your gas or electric service. Whip City Fiber technical support is available 24 x 7 at 413-485-1204. GRAND PRIZE 2ND PRIZE 3RD PRIZE We are thankful for Westfield and wish you all a safe joyful holiday and very happy New $ $ Year! SUPER BOWL PARTY 250 100 GIFT CARD GIFT CARD IINCLUDES: Super bowl Sunday - Party for 10 people $500 VALUE (alcohol NOT included)

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WEEK 16 PICKS NAME: SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2020 ______J Atlanta @ J City ADDRESS: J Cleveland @ J N.Y. Jets ______J Indianapolis @ J Pittsburgh ______J Carolina @ J Washington ______J Chicago @ J Jacksonville J N.Y. Giants @ J Baltimore PHONE: ______J Cincinnati @ J Houston Mail or email completed entry form to: J Denver @ J L.A. Chargers Beat the Putz Get the 2020 NFL SUNDAY TICKET J Philadelphia @ J Dallas Reminder Publishing J L.A. RAMS @ J Seattle 181 Root Road season included at no extra cost. Westfield, MA 01085 Req’s you to select oer. TIE BREAKER: sports@thewestfieldnews.com *$19.95 ACTIVATION, EARLY TERMINATION FEE OF $20/MO. FOR EACH MONTH REMAINING ON AGMT., EQUIPMENT NON-RETURN & ADD’L FEES APPLY. Price incl. CHOICE All Included Pkg., monthly service J @ J Green Bay and equip. fees for 1 HD DVR & is aft er $5/mo. autopay & paperless bill and $10/mo. bundle discounts for up to 12 mos each. Pay $74.99/mo. + taxes until discount starts w/in 3 bills. New approved NOTE: 1 ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD residential customers only (equipment lease req’d). Credit card req’d (except MA & PA). Restr’s apply. TOTAL POINTS:______

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Thursday, Dec. 24, 2020: Visionary, capable and overcoming, you are the expert in your field. You don’t let your success this year to be overshadowed by negative energy from others. You’re naturally porous and so work not to absorb. If single, you attract many but will often try to change them. You meet the one you want in July. If attached, other than petty confrontations, you DUSTIN By Steve Kelley and Jeff Parker are very happy. CANCER sticks through thick and thin. The Stars Show the Kind of Day You’ll Have: 5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult ARIES (March 21-April 19)  It’s a marvelous time for last- minute shopping. You will have an awareness of what you need to assure comfort and secu- rity. Genuine wealth wears many faces. You’ll concentrate well and develop a new clarity of understanding. Tonight: Preparing for tomor- row. SCARY GARY Mark Buford TAURUS (April 20-May 20)  The holiday begins with a fresh breath of change and promise. Issues that began last January-February can become important again. Reflect on your goals and priorities for a whole new way of life. Tonight: The promise of a new project can make you feel reborn. GEMINI (May 21-June 20)  You’ll have an active inner life Crosswords this Christmas Eve. Many of your deepest thoughts and feelings will be internalized. It’s a perfect time to spend extra time recording and analyzing yourself. Tonight: You’ll be especially sympathetic and kind to those in DOGS of C-KENNEL Mick and Mason Mastroianni need. CANCER (June 21-July 22)  Today allows you to mend rela- tionships. This brings kindness and admira- tion from others. Prepare for a whirlwind of fun and happiness. Pursue the arts in your leisure hours. Involvement with groups and social services or political interests enrich your life. Tonight: Relax. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)  Christmas Eve brings news from old friends. Nostalgia is sweet and strong. Consider career-related decisions, but postpone any changes involving work until B.C. Mastroianni and Hart way after the holiday. Give yourself time off now. Tonight: See humor in the whimsical caprice of a partner. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)  Depth of insight and a new mental clarity are the holiday’s first gifts to you. Make plans, enjoy new books or write about social issues. You will feel more secure about your beliefs. Tonight: Faraway places or foreign born people impart new perspec- tives. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)  Discuss and resolve old puzzles. Your cheery words and bright smile let others glimpse the inner warmth you feel as winter ONE BIG HAPPY Rick Detorie truly begins. Plans go awry, but a shift in direction will open new avenues of opportu- nity. Tonight: Enjoy the evening. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)  Today makes others easier to under- stand and ultimately affects your relationships profoundly. You make decisions about part- nerships. A tie that has outlived its usefulness dissolves. You will prefer different company. Tonight: Fairness is important. Be ready to move forward in every way. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)  Health improves when you take a break from work. Relax and regroup. A problem is less serious than it first seemed. A ANDY CAPP Mahoney, Goldsmith and Garnett discussion of plans and feelings with your beloved bring new depth to most important bonds. Tonight: The natural healing process relieves minor maladies. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)  Cultural and creative interests bring joy. You’ll delight in getting to know different types of people. Music and poetry evoke special feelings. You may experience a change of heart about a loved one. Tonight: You will have a better idea about your future. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)  A stable, familiar environment is nurturing. Family life is joyful. Decorate your home for the holidays and stock up on Cryptoquip ZACK HILL John Deering and John Newcombe refreshments. A family member who is nor- mally reserved is warmer and more loving. Tonight: Children are a source of delight. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)  Children are joyful. Experiment with new games and festivities -- the atmosphere is jolly. You would enjoy participating in holiday pageants or attending a concert of seasonal music. Select holiday gifts that are purely for pleasure. Tonight: This isn’t a time to be serious or practical. BORN TODAY Poet Matthew Arnold (1822), actress Ava Gardner (1922), immunologist Anthony Fauci (1940) PAGE 8 - THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS

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(M-F 8-6 ET) Dear Readers: On this Christmas Eve, let’s fun for them and for me to keep them guessing and to CHIMNEY SWEEPS remember those of us who may be alone -- alone and see if they guessed correctly. HENTNICK lonely. Loneliness is a big problem this time of year, It also makes handing out gifts easier; there is no CHIMNEY SWEEPS and with COVID, the problem may be bigger than in need to read name tags. I read your column in the Chimney repairs and rebuilds. Stainless steel caps and liner systems. Inspections, masonry previous years. Dayton Daily News. -- Christy J. in Vandalia, work and gutter cleaning. Free estimates. In- Our seniors can suffer a lot with loneliness, and WRAP IT UP ... sured. Quality work from a business you can when we are under stay at home orders, it’s difficult Dear Heloise: I enjoy your column in The Villages trust. (413)848-0100, (800)793-3706. to get out to visit them. Difficult, and possibly danger- (FL) Sun newspaper and have a suggestion. I use all ous. those address labels to wrap Christmas presents Who is in this group? Homebound folks, those with instead of using tape. They are a colorful addition to A STEP ABOVE THE REST! loss of mobility, those whose spouse has passed and the wrapping paper and a reminder to our loved ones JMF CHIMNEY SERVICE folks who are limited with their hearing or sight. about our address. Need chimney repair? So many people need help. What are some solu- Also, as Christmas card season approaches, I cut We do brick repair, crown tions? Bring a plate of food to a senior, call them, and the address labels from cards received to put in my seals and repairs. Stainless steel liner installs, as well here’s a big one: Offer to help them set up the technol- address book. Happy holidays! -- Linda K., via email as stainless rain caps. ogy to participate in video calls with family! EGGNOG We sweep all flues. Stove Installations. Merry Christmas, everyone, and enjoy this time Dear Readers: A drink synonymous with the holi- Free estimates provided. with your close family, but do it safely. We will get days is eggnog, but how much do you know about it? Owner operated through this. -- Heloise Let’s check it out: Call: 413-330-2186 ORGANIZATION NATION -- Made from milk, cream, sugar, cinnamon or nut- Dear Heloise: My five grandkids were always fig- meg, egg whites and egg yolks, rum or whiskey can uring out what was in their Christmas packages under also be added! the tree by the tags, size and sounds. I decided to -- Originally developed in the U.K., eggnog is now make it more difficult (and fun) by not putting name more popular in the United States. tags on packages. -- It seems to be one holiday tradition that, like I wrap each kid’s gifts in one design of paper only. fruitcake, you either love or hate! -- Heloise To make it harder for them to guess whose is whose, Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to the boys’ gifts may be in girl-themed paper, and the Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279- girls’ gifts in “boy” paper. 5001, or you can fax it to 1-210-HELOISE or email Of course, I have to write down in a secret place it to [email protected]. I can’t answer your let- which paper belongs to which child so I don’t forget! ter personally but will use the best hints received in Then, on Christmas Day, before we pass out the my column. presents, I give them each a card with a swatch of the ——— paper inside that matches their gifts. It makes it more (C)2020 BY KING FEATURES SYNDICATE INC.

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