PRSRT STD Belchertown, Granby & Amherst U.S. POSTAGE PAID PALMER, MA PERMIT NO. 22 ECR-WSS LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 entinelYOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER SINCE 1915 A TURLEY PUBLICATIONS ❙ www.turley.com Volume 105 • Number 40 www.sentinel.turley.com k A BELCHERTOWN A Loo hea Fin com, d to BOS talk MELINA used is owned BOURDEAU by the town of Staff writer Belchertown, FY2021, and in cooper- While no one ation with the can predict the Conservation FY2022 future, a new Commission, year ushers in leverages exist- potential for ing and compliant BY MELINA BOURDEAU change. Much open space. Staff writer like 2020 before Corbin said the it, COVID-19 will project is to cre- BELCHERTOWN – With the still exist in 2021, and Jan. 3, I will be sure to com- planned on having the work ate 18 holes for 2021 fiscal year underway and although there are plans to have municate any potential impact done during the winter break. use for disk golf, but the hope is planning for next year’s budget people vaccinated in the spring to our plan to return to in-per- However, to avoid interrupting that people will use the area for to begin shortly, the Belchertown and summer. Both Granby and son learning on Jan. 4 as quick- the swim season, the work has mixed-use as well. Corbin added Selectboard and Finance Belchertown will be seeking to ly as possible. We will contin- been rescheduled to February. that three of the 18 holes will be Committee held a joint meeting replace fire chiefs in the future ue to assess community health “We have a rescheduled date ADA compliant. on Dec. 16 to discuss where the as well as a superintendent for data and review daily and weekly to begin on Feb. 15,” Brougham As of Dec. 28, the conceptual budget stands. Granby Public Schools. This metrics with the board of health said. design for the project is complete Town accountant Jill Panto story will reflect on just a few of throughout the holiday break.” He added that the heat and Corbin hopes that construc- began with a presentation on the things to come in 2021. Another plan for the future exchanger is the original on the tion will start “fairly quickly” in CARES Act funding for the town. will be repairs to the Chestnut pool, one which would need be the new year. Belchertown applied for and Hill pool deck and a potential replaced in early 2021 as well. “Construction is going to be received $554,000 and spent Belchertown heat exchanger replacement. “It’s 30-somehting years old, limited to maybe removing a $723,000, according to Panto. Town Administrator Gary it’s failing and we’re limping couple of trees, but the hope is to There is an additional $779,000 n the very near future, the stu- Brougham explained the current along at near-minimum tempera- conform to what’s already there,” available at the end of December dents of Belchertown Public plan at the Dec. 16 Selectboard ture,” he said. “We’ve authorized he said. or beginning of January, Panto ISchools are anticipated to and Finance Committee meeting. the work and the part has been The group also has some fund- said. return on Jan. 4, according to “After working through a num- ordered and that will be replaced raising to do in the future, with “Part of what we claimed, an Superintendent Brian Cameron ber of pre-bid award meetings in the second or third week in $8,000 to raise for the tee-boxes, estimate of $737,000, that was in an email to the district on Dec. and discussion we had a respon- January.” which is the area from which the supposed to be FEMA eligible,” 18. sible bid and we tried to schedule Additionally, the Quabbin disk is thrown. Panto said. “FEMA has since “We strongly believe that there the work to be done next week,” Valley Disk Golf will potentially Corbin said he has high hopes changed their rules. If we want to is no replacement for in-person he said. “It’s not a huge proj- be in full swing by the spring, for the disk golf course, which be reimbursed for PPE and sup- learning and the related con- ect, it’s very complicated, it’s a said President and Treasurer of he said will “allow the sport to plies we need to tell them where nections between students and small area with a lot of work to Quabbin Valley Disk Golf Inc., grow and attract professionals they were used. If we were using teachers and peers. However, be done.” Steve Corbin. The corporation and newcomers alike.” cleaning supplies for the library the increase in community cases He said the work will probably is currently waiting to hear back In the coming year, there will and there wasn’t a suspected con- of COVID-19 may exceed our take about a week to complete, from the IRS regarding a non- also be two recently established tamination then it is not eligible.” capacity to provide adequate, but there is a 28-day cure cycle profit designation. committees which will take up Panto said she anticipated that in-person staffing in our schools on the concrete before the pool The course will be located at their respective objectives. “the town will be made whole and we may be forced to switch can be refilled. the Constantino Field recreation with the CARES Act. It’s just a to remote learning,” he wrote. In conjunction with the school area, behind, and north of the “If this occurs between Dec. 23 grounds coordinator, the town existing soccer field. The land See 2021, page 5 • See BUDGET, page 15 •

People Watching STATE $1 billion to bolster unemployment fund, aid employers proposed

STAFF REPORT ment insurance relief to the Commonwealth’s employers over — Legislation was two years,” according to a news filed by gov. Charlie Baker’s release from Baker’s office. office last week aimed at keep- The main provisions of the ing the state’s Unemployment legislation include a two-year Insurance Trust Fund solvent and freeze on the scheduled increase easing the tax burden on employ- in employer contributions from a ers whose contributions fuel the per-employee average of $539 to fund. $866. It also authorizes he issu- The proposal also seeks to ance of special obligation bonds lower the costs of servicing the to re-pay federal advances. Commonwealth’s debt with the “In order to fund the unprec- federal government. If approved edented increases in demand by the legislature, the measure PHOTO BY MELINA BOURDEAU would “provide an estimat- The cows on that reside near Bay Road spend time by the pine trees as cars drive by. ed $1.3 billion in unemploy- See UNEMPLOYMENT, page 5 •

Call Surner Surner Heating has partnered with the and ask for our Susan G. Koman Foundation to support all 60 Shumway Street PINK truck those whom have been touched by to make your Breast Cancer. Amherst, MA 01002 next delivery. re he Cu In T 413.253.5999 Believe CONTACT SURNER HEATING TODAY! VISIT OUR WEBSITE SURNERHEAT.COM PAGE 2 THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020

The Sentinel Obituary Policy

Turley Publications offers two types of obituaries. PHONE One is a free, brief 413.283.8393 Death Notice listing Fax: 413.289.1977 the name of deceased, Subscriptions: 413.283.8393 date of death and funeral date and place. EMAIL The other is a Paid Advertising Sales Obituary, costing Maureen McGarrett Hall $120, which allows [email protected] families to publish COURTESY PHOTO The June photo in J.R. Greene’s 2021 Quabbin History Calendar shows the Swift River Box Shop in North Dana. Editor extended death notice Melina Bourdeau information of their [email protected] own choice and may J.R. Greene releases 36th annual Quabbin History Calendar include a photograph. ATHOL — his- these calendars to over 400, includ- the memory of the people who once Subscriptions Death Notices & torian J.R. Greene has released his ing many from the diver- lived in these places. $31 per year pre-paid Paid Obituaries thirty-sixth annual edition of the pop- sion villages. To maintain their goal The 2021 Quabbin History ($36 out of state) ular Quabbin History Calendar for of providing large size reproductions Calendar is available for purchase should be 2021. The calendar features all new of views from these last places, they at the following locations: Barre, submitted through a images, most in sepia tone, formatted have included views of a school, Barre Family Pharmacy; Hardwick, WEB funeral home to: by Joe Mitko. Each year the calendar church, factory, pool room and a sum- Hardwick Farmers Co-op Exchange; www.sentinel.turley.com [email protected]. has a new selection of pictorial mem- mer camp. These views enhance the Hubbardston, Country Trail; Palmer, ories of the villages obliterated for the value of this calendar as a reflector of Palmer Hobbies; Petersham, Quabbin @ The Sentinel Exceptions will be made construction of the Quabbin Reservoir the lost valley’s history. Woods Restaurant; North Brookfield, only when the family and the Ware River diversion in the The theme of this calendar is to Brookfield Orchard; Rutland, Rutland provides a death certificate 1920s and 1930s. honor the villages of the former Swift Pharmacy; Thorndike, Junction The Sentinel is published by and must be pre-paid. This calendar for 2021 brings the and Ware River valleys, and their way Variety; Ware, Ware Library; West Turley Publications, Inc. • www.turley.com total number of photos presented in of life. This calendar is dedicated to Brookfield, Plantation Country Store.

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Join Us For WILBRAHAM & MONSON ACADEMY TITAN TALKS A Virtual Admission Series allowing you to meet faculty and students, and to learn all about WMA programs and community. ATHLETICS TUESDAY, JAN. 12 / 6 pM EST Fine & Performing Arts THURSDAY, JAN. 14 / 6 pM EST ACADEMICS TUESDAY, JAN. 19 / 6 pM EST Entrepreneurship, Economics & Finance THURSDAY, JAN. 21 / 6 pM EST Middle School TUESDAY, JAN. 26 / 6 pM EST INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, JAN. 27 / 7:30 AM EST COLLEGE PREPARATORY / GRADES 6 - 12, PG / COEDUCATIONAL / BOARDING & DAY www.wma.us/titantalks THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 PAGE 3

❚ COMMUNITY Board/committee vacancies BELCHERTOWN – The Belchertown Selectboard is looking for citizens interested in sharing their expertise by serving on a town board/committee. If you have time and are interested in getting involved in your town’s activities, please submit a letter of interest to: Board of Selectmen, The Finnerty House, One South Main Street, P.O. Box 670, Belchertown, MA 01007 or by email to [email protected] (unless other- wise indicated below). The town wishes to fill the following vacancies: Conservation Commission: The town wish- es to fill a full member vacancy on the Conservation Commission. The commission is charged with the pro- tection of the community’s natural resources and advises other municipal boards and committees on conservation issues relating to their areas of responsibility. Interested applicants will need to familiarize themselves with the Wetland Regulations and attend workshops and meetings regularly. The deadline has been extended to 12 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 8, 2021. Cultural Council: The town wishes to fill a vacan- cy on the Cultural Council. The Council promotes an appreciation of the arts and culture by participating in the development and administration of funds for local cultur- al activities. The deadline has been extended to 12 p.m. on Friday, COURTESY PHOTO Belchertown Education Foundation 2020 Community Champion Sean Sullivan, third from right, and his family live in Belchertown. Jan. 8, 2021. Fair Committee: The town wishes to fill vacancies on the Fair Committee. If you are interested in playing an active role in the planning process of the annual Sullivan honored as Belchertown Education Belchertown Fair and Parade, please submit a letter of interest to the Selectboard’s Office. Foundation 2020 community champion The deadline has been extended to 12 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 8, 2021. BELCHERTOWN – The Bel- St. Germaine. up in Amherst and has been a resident Historic District By-Law Commission: The town chertown Education Foundation has St. Germaine said, “Technology can of Belchertown since 2003. Sullivan wishes to fill an associate member seat (non-voting) and awarded Belchertown resident Sean be a challenge for small non-profits said when he learned of the honor, “I an at-large (full member) seat on the Historic District Sullivan as the organization’s 2020 like ours. Sean has tirelessly provid- am thrilled to be able to support, and By-Law Commission. The commission has regulatory Community Champion. ed his expertise and guidance to the give back to the great educational sys- control over new construction, reconstruction, alterations, Sullivan was commended for his Foundation for years. He is always tem that has and continues to shape movements and demolition of all exterior architectural community-minded citizenship in there when we need him. He supports and mold my children and those of the features of buildings and structures within the Historic support of the Foundation’s mission us through our technology challeng- community.” to enrich the education of students in es. Sean is a humble individual who Janice McCarthy, owner of Belchertown Public Schools. He has is deeply invested in the community McCarthy’s Pub in Belchertown, See VACANCIES, page 4 • provided the Foundation with his tech- and works behind the scenes to bring received the organization’s first nical expertise since its inception in the BEF mission to life. On behalf of Community Champion Award in 2019. 2017. the entire Foundation Board, I share The Belchertown Education “Sean has been instrumental in my appreciation for Sean and the Foundation (BEF) is an independent, digitally connecting the Belchertown time and talent he has contributed to volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit orga- Education Foundation with our com- the Foundation over the years as we nization committed to enriching the munity and donors, which allows us have grown our outreach and Student educational opportunities of students Sometimes to communicate through electronic Success Grants Program.” in Belchertown public schools. More at newsletters, raise funds and maintain Sullivan is the owner of XHeight BelchertownEducationFoundation.org. our website and its functionality,” says Studios, providing digital marketing Thank You Board of Directors member Heather solutions to his customers. He grew is NOT the perfect word to show how much I appreciate everything Wishing You Health & Happiness in 2021 the Belchertown Full Service Collision HAMPSHIRE Community, PLEASANT Mechanical Center Selectboard and my staff Center • Lifetime Warranty on ALL Paint Work has done for my business • Computer & Fuel • Expert Color TOWING Injection Diagnosis STREET AUTO Matching since June 17th. • Tune-Up - Brakes • Unibody & Frame - Exhaust Call 24 hours a day BODY & REPAIR, INC Straightening • Lube & Tire Center • Glass Installation Since 1981 ~ Mass RS# 1752 •Certified Emission 413-534-5373 • Heavy Trucks, Repair Center Your generous spirit and Trailers and RV’s Hampshire Towing is also a full service towing and • Alignments 413-532-9898 • 60ft Spray Paint Booth recovery company anywhere! support has touched my Rental Cars Available On Site heart and business more 650 New Ludlow Road | South Hadley, MA 01075 Wishing you a Happy New Year! times then I can count.

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LIKE US ON A GREEN Rte. 116 & Bay Road, South Amherst, MA Open: Mon. – Fri. 8 to 5, Sat. 8 to 1 COMPANY 413-323-4210 • 1-800-358-5100 (413) 253-9528 PAGE 4 THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 Coalition hears Baystate update on virus be offered in the spring and summer, but Professor provides the vaccines are not for children under 18 a virus overview as of yet. “I expect next fall to be a much more normal school year.” She also expects EILEEN KENNEDY the rest of the school year will remain in Staff writer the hybrid model, with a couple of days in-person and the remainder through remote WARE – The Quaboag Hills Community learning. She said it was probably unrealis- Coalition hosted Molly Gray, president and tic to expect schools could return to a full chief administrative officer for Baystate in-person schools this school year. Health Eastern Region, and Megan W. Although vaccines are becoming avail- Harvey, a Springfield College professor to able, she said all safety measures must provide perspectives on COVID-19 during stay in place to reduce the spread, includ- a Zoom call Dec. 21 ing mask wearing, six-foot distancing and Gray said Baystate’s seven-day positivity having adequate ventilation. She said it is rate that week was 8.1%, which is about the thought that there is not a lot of spreading highest the healthcare company has seen. through surfaces. “But it’s consistent with what’s happening She said children are less likely to devel- across the state,” she said. op COVID-19, and if they do, they usually She said there were 158 of COVID-19 have a less severe case compared to adults. cases within Baystate’s hospitals as of Children often have no symptoms or very Monday, Dec. 21. Molly Gray, administrative officer for Baystate Megan Harvey, health sciences professor at mild symptoms. The big news she had to share was Health Eastern Region. Springfield College. When asked about herd immunity, Harvey 2,127 employees just got their first dose of said it means when a large enough percent- age of the population has immunity against Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. “This could helps or hurts us,” she said about the ups become RNA, but contains no actual virus the virus. be a turning point,” Gray said. Since Pfizer and downs of having staff out or having material. She pointed to measles, which has about a and Moderna vaccines differ somewhat them back to work. The coronavirus is more infectious than 90% immunity rate these days, and to have although each needs two doses several “The good news is what we’re not seeing Ebola but less infectious than measles, immunity from COVID-19, 70 to 75% of weeks apart, she emphasized it is important is the flu,” Gray said. Healthcare officials mumps or rubella, but it’s infectious enough the population would have to be immune for to stay with the same manufacturer for the across the country have worried here would to have its growth be exponential, she said. the cases to decrease. second shot. be a “twindemic” of the flu and COVID-19 Even with best estimates of COVID-19 Harvey also said it is clear that it has been As of that morning, Baystate officials cases, which could overwhelm hospitals. deaths, the numbers indicate more people harmful for students to not be in school. “It had just 260 vaccinations left to give out, She said it has been really taxing and have died during the year than usual, and isn’t clear if that’s from the anxiety of living and hopes are that Moderna’s COVID-19 really tough for frontline workers, and JAC some of them are likely related to COVID in the a pandemic,” she said, or being out of vaccines will be on the way shortly; they’ve Patrissi, facilitator of the meeting, asked issues. school without the fun of socialization. She been ordered but they haven’t yet arrived, her to convey the group’s gratitude for all As far as transmissions are concerned, big also said students are experiencing more she said. their work. and small particles of the virus are spread, anxiety and depression, as are adults. The vaccines are given in a central loca- Gray asked those attending to join her but it is also an airborne disease, because She said the only way to really stop the tion so those receiving shots can be moni- in role-modeling good behavior during the tiny particles can be suspended in the air for virus is by frequent testing of once or twice tored for any side effects. A small number pandemic such as mask wearing, social dis- longer times and travel further making good week, and then following up with contract of those receiving the vaccine may have tancing and refraining from large holiday ventilation important. tracing. It’s an expensive proposition to do a anaphylactic reaction to it, so benadryl gatherings. When asked about an evolved version of that testing, which is why it is mostly pri- and EpiPens are kept on hand. Of the 2,500 the virus recently found in England, Harvey vate schools and colleges that can afford to people receiving a vaccine at Baystate, Epidemiologist said that’s what viruses do, they involve, and carry it out. three people experienced an immediate Springfield College Professor of Health often become more infectious. However, with She was optimistic that “science helped reaction but felt fine after taking benadryl, Sciences Megan Harvey said it is exciting the increase in its infectiousness, the virus save the day.” she said. because it looks like science will save the usually doesn’t become deadly, she said, and “I feel very hopeful that by February Gray said Baystate system-wide has 250 day with COVID-19 vaccines, which will expects this coronavirus to be no different. we’ll be coming down the other side,” employees who are out with COVID-19, help particularly frontline workers. Harvey said. or must quarantine themselves after being She said it is made of DNA from the Schools exposed the coronovirus. “Every little bit coronavirus, which is then flipped to Harvey said she expects vaccines will

Belchertown Justice Collaborative launches jeopardy game VACANCIES • from page 3 BELCHERTOWN – Looking for some- engaging for children under 10. Compete in in Belchertown. Other prizes include District which are visible from any public thing fun to do on cold and dark winter person against your close family members or Belchertown Justice Collaborative merchan- street, public way or public park. nights? Do you think you know all there play virtually with many different teams from dise. Keep track of your points, if that is fun The deadline has been extended to 12 is to know about winter holidays? The far and wide. for you, but you can enter the raffle regard- p.m. on Friday, Jan. 8, 2021. Belchertown Justice Collaborative has a fes- Follow this link to play: https://jeopar- less of how well you do. People who answer Zoning Board of Appeals – Associate tive, fun and safe activity for you. dylabs.com/play/2020-12-06-213 the final jeopardy correctly will be entered Member: The ZBA is responsible for The Belchertown Justice Collaborative When you finish playing, make sure you for the first place prize, those who do not are hearing and deciding on applications for announced its first Winter Holiday Jeopardy finish the final jeopardy to be entered in a still eligible for the other prizes. special permits, variances and appeals game. The game will be open from now until raffle. This jeopardy covers a wide range of tradi- from decisions of the Zoning Enforcement Jan. 8. The game is designed to be challeng- First prize is the “build your holiday cook- tions and celebrations. It is not intended to be Officer/Building Inspector. ing and competitive between adults. While it ie package,” purchased by the Belchertown comprehensive, but instead offers a survey of The deadline has been extended to 12 is still appropriate for families, it may not be Justice Collaborative, from Aunt Elsie’s many holidays. p.m. on Friday, Jan. 8, 2021.

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from the SENTINEL staff 413-800-4747 [email protected] THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 PAGE 5

UNEMPLOYMENT • from page 1 “Our unemployment insurance system protect people and our businesses. Keeping was supporting over 1 million people at both healthy is a struggle. There is a com- Songs for the night on the unemployment system in the pandemic’s height, and we contin- prehensive economic development bill Massachusetts as a result of COVID-19, ue to face historically high jobless rates. currently pending before the Legislature BELCHERTOWN – Christ Community Church, will be hosting an the Commonwealth has received federal Since the pandemic began this spring, includes additional substantial investments upcoming special service, “Songs for the cash advances,” the release from Baker’s the Legislature has taken many steps to in small businesses and I am advocating support impacted businesses and fami- to have that released before the end of the Night.” office states. This special gathering will offer an lies, including expanding unemployment year.” “Through the issuance of bonds, the opportunity for attendees to remember insurance, extending the number of weeks Baker’s proposal also establishes Commonwealth will be able to ensure loved ones who have gone home, seek- positive trust fund solvency to enable the of relief, waiving waiting periods, and an employer surcharge on contributory ing God’s comfort in songs of worship continued payment of benefits. The uti- allocating tens of millions in direct aid employers. and in his word. For those who grieve lization of capital markets also allows to hard-hit local businesses. Moving for- “In 2020, all federal advances taken to and all those who love them, the service Massachusetts to avoid paying punitive ward, significant pain remains, and there is pay benefits are interest free,” Baker states will take place on Sunday, Jan. 10 at 6 federal tax increases on employers regard- much more that needs to be done, includ- in the release. p.m. People should sign up to attend on less of their experience rating if federal ing providing relief to businesses facing “However, interest on federal advanc- the church’s website: www.graceforthe- advances are not repaid by November of exorbitant new fees and other steps to sup- es will begin to be charged beginning in way.org, to ensure there’s enough space 2022. Bonds issued will be supported by port the unemployment insurance system. January of 2021. The first interest payment in the church to follow all social dis- an unemployment obligation assessment I look forward to working alongside my is due in the fall of 2021 and it cannot be tancing guidelines. All social distancing and will not be general obligations of the colleagues in the legislation and Governor paid from the state unemployment trust and mask-wearing regulations will be in Commonwealth.” Baker to move much needed reforms and fund, per federal law. To fund interest pay- place. State Sen. Eric Lesser said he looks for- help forward.” ments on repayable advances, the legis- For more information contact the ward to finding solutions that aid both Another local local lawmaker, State Sen. lation also establishes a separate fund to church office at 413-253-0292 or office@ employers and workers who are suffering Anne Gobi, said she supports the measure. house surcharge proceeds. The passage of gracefortheway.org located at 1255 because of the pandemic. “I am in favor of doing as much as pos- this provision authorizes the Department Federal St, Belchertown. “The COVID-19 epidemic triggered sible to assist our small businesses and I of Unemployment Assistance to make this waves of layoffs and financial hardship, support the Governor’s bill,” Gobi said. assessment but does not require the sur- especially for our small businesses and “We all know how devastating this past charge if interest is waived through future their employees,” Lesser said last week. year has been and we must do all we can to federal legislation.”

2021 • from page 1 based healthcare workers and then health- Another departing figure from for in a new superintendent,” Hepworth said. care workers doing non-COVID-facing care. Belchertown will be Belchertown Fire Chief A search committee has already been The Communications Committee and the Then from Feb. through April, phase two Edward Bock, who is set to leave in May. established including members of the Energy and Sustainability Committee were will consist of people with high risks for The tentative plan is to create a search school’s administration, School Committee both created by the Selectboard in 2020. COVID-19 related complications, school, committee to have an applicant selected by members, the Granby Education Association, Before the year’s end, the members of the transit, grocery, utility, food and agriculture, April. teachers, parents and a member of the Energy and Sustainability Committee were sanitation, public works and public health Serving members of the committee would Granby Selectboard. appointed to their respective terms and will workers and adults over 65. include Belchertown Police Chief Chris Hepworth said she is proud of everything be meeting again beginning in January. Then in phase three, from April to June Pronovost, Department of Public Works the schools have done to provide for the The members serving a three-year term 2021, the vaccine will be available to the Director Steve Williams, members of the students in its district and said the efforts ending June 30, 2024 are Patricia Krebs, public. community, a selectboard member, as pro- will continue into the new year, potentially Frank Byrne and John Piekara. The mem- Metcalf said there has been “lots of posed by the town administrator, who also including graduation. bers serving a two-year term ending June preparation work” in the form of mass offered to serve “ex-officio.” “We had reverse parades and a really spe- 30, 2023 are Michael Potishnak and Todd immunization plans which were put into Following the posting, the search com- cial graduation last year,” Hepworth said. Perry and the members serving a one-year place in the past. mittee would assemble beginning in Jan. “One of the things that made it so special was term ending June 30, 2022 are “We did H1N1 clinics and I am proud that 2021, schedule preliminary interviews and the ability for the students to receive their Joanne Collins and Jacob Robinson. we personally vaccinated a majority of the move to a second round of interviews by the diploma from someone important to them. While the Communications Committee school children during the H1N1 outbreak,” selectboard. Brougham said the goal is to The ceremony was outside in the parking lot. held one meeting towards the end of 2020, it she said. “The current pandemic – a lot of have a person appointed in April 2021 “so People liked it so much some have suggested has yet to establish its official membership. the planning and structure was thrown out there could be some overlap between the that we have a similar ceremony this year.” In addition to these seven citizens, the the window and restarted.” outgoing and incoming chiefs.” An additional hope for the new calen- director of the Department of Public Works, One of Metcalf’s hopes in the near future dar year is to get all of the students into the Steve Williams, as well as our director is for a uniform message as she shifts to building for hybrid learning by the end of of Schools Buildings and Grounds, Eric vaccination education for the public. Granby February, Hepworth said. Lebeau, have agreed to serve as ‘ex-officio’ Metcalf added that a new public health Students with high needs throughout the Similarly to its neighboring town of members. nurse will begin in the district in the new district are in hybrid learning, but grades Belchertown, Granby will be in the process Health Director Judy Metcalf said the year. three through six and nine through 12 still of finding a new fire chief to replace interim Health Department will continue to track “Our previous nurse left in May and need to begin hybrid learning. Chief Robert Czerwinski, who took over the COVID-19 cases in town as well as inform we’ve been without one for a long time,” Hepworth said the schools have been position in the fall of 2020. the public about the vaccination for the Metcalf said. “The nurse will be shared working diligently to make that happen by While the discussion of finding a perma- novel coronavirus which will become avail- between Belchertown and Ware.” installing HEPA filters into the high school, nent chief is preliminary, Granby Selectboard able to the public. She said filling the position was a goal removing furniture to allow for six feet of members have expressed interest in estab- As of Dec. 27, the first phase of the vac- before she retires in the spring. social distancing and other measures. lishing a search committee to find a potential cine was underway, with healthcare workers Metcalf, who is the third Quabbin Health “We’ve had some setbacks due to an replacement. receiving the vaccine in order of priority. District director, announced her retirement increase in COVID-19 cases,” Hepworth Another leadership role in town is current- According to the Massachusetts distribu- in October, saying her last day would be said. “But we’re following guidelines. Kudos ly in the process of searching for a permanent tion timeline, phase one will be from Dec. April 21, 2021, but she would be on the to our nurse leaders Nancy Jenks who has replacement for interim Superintendent Carol 2020 to Feb. 2021. The first phase included payroll until July 1. worked to make sure we know who the close Hepworth, who took over the district in July clinical and non-clinical healthcare workers A subcommittee was created in October contacts are and that people are quarantin- 2020. doing direct COVID-facing care, long-term to conduct a search and find candidates ing.” Hepworth said the hope is to have her care facilities, rest homes and assisted liv- for the position with the hopes of having a What are you looking forward to in the replacement start around the same time she ing facilities, police, fire and emergency chosen successor by March to allow for a new year? Share your resolutions and hopes did. medical services, congregate care settings month of overlap to allow Metcalf to train for the new year to be published in the “We just sent out a survey to families and (including corrections and shelters), home- the new hire. Sentinel, email [email protected]. staff at GPS asking what they were looking

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❚ OPINION

EDITORIAL Turley Publications Americans advised Letters to the to stay home this Editor Policy Letters to the edi- holiday season tor should be 350 BY MARCEL GEMME words or less in length. No unsigned s the numbers start to come in or anonymous opin- after Thanksgiving, things are ions will be pub- Anot looking good. The United lished. We require States has averaged nearly 200,000 letter writers to new confirmed COVID-19 cases a include his or her day over the last week. But accord- town of residence ing to Dr. Anthony Fauci, this isn’t and home telephone even the beginning of the full impact number. We must we’re expected to see from the cele- authenticate author- bration of the most recent holiday. The real numbers are expected to start pouring in ship prior to publi- soon, and December is shaping up to be the worst month cation. We reserve so far for COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations. The the right to edit or biggest victims? America’s vulnerable senior population. withhold any sub- Health experts have long warned that the holiday sea- missions deemed to son would bring a spike in coronavirus cases as people be libelous or con- increasingly gather indoors. The CDC preemptively tain unsubstantiated issued an online guide to safely celebrating the Holidays, LETTERS allegations, person- with pages specific to upcoming celebrations. Right al attacks, defama- now, their “Winter Holidays” page appears to cover both tion of character Christmas and New Year’s Celebrations. Jabish Brook thanks school community and offensive lan- The first thing that’s being suggested is to stay home. guage. All unknown Travel increases risk, so it is being advised against. And To The Editor: tive learning environment to our students. since it’s looking like Americans collectively blew off We are indebted to our community for their or alleged facts and suggested precautions over Thanksgiving, health experts Jabish Brook Middle School would like dedication and commitment to this mission, quotations offered are doubling down. to extend its sincerest appreciation to our and appreciative for your cooperation and by the author need to The Mayo Clinic has posted it’s own COVID-19 hol- school community. The staff, students, fac- perseverance to support our school. cite credible, unbi- iday guide online, taking what appears to be a slightly ulty, administration, parents and guard- We are very proud to be part of a com- ased sources. Send less aggressive approach. Their main suggestions are ians of JBMS have come together during munity that has worked so hard for the letters to: Sentinel geared towards how to best safely celebrate should you unprecedented challenges to provide the benefit of our students and staff under such Editor Melina choose to do so, and things to consider when making this best possible programs and services for circumstances. Bourdeau, 24 Water decision. our middle school students. It has been St., Palmer, MA through the cooperative effort of our school From the faculty and staff at Since this issue is so sensitive and vital, major busi- 01069 or via email to nesses have either elected or asked to help curb the community that JBMS has been able to Jabish Brook Middle School continue to provide a positive and produc- [email protected]. virus’s spread. The deadline for sub- Those that aren’t promoting and engaging in safe missions is Friday at practices are finding themselves in hot water rapid- ly. Lives are at stake. For example, Airbnb recently Thanks for supporting Toys for Town 5 p.m. announced its New Year’s Eve Plan to Protect Public Dear community members, drives were held all over town with the Health. Their first step will be to restrict specific book- common goal of being able to give back ing requests that they view to be “suspicious” or indi- A heartfelt thank you goes out to the to families in need. Without your kindness cate someone planning a party. These will mostly be Belchertown community during the holiday and generosity, we would not be able to do last-minute, one or two night stays booked over New season. The overwhelming support that the help so many local families. Belchertown, Granby & Amherst Year’s Eve by guests that don’t have an established, posi- Toys for Town program received this year tive review history on their platform. entinelYOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER SINCE 1915 helped spread the holiday cheer to many Thank you again and see you next year, S Next, the guests must attest that they will not throw an families and children in Belchertown. Toy Santa’s helpers unauthorized party, or they may be pursued legally by The Sentinel is published Airbnb. Finally, the company will be operating a virtual every Thursday by Turley command center to get ahead of any issues, along with Publications, Inc., 24 Water GUEST COLUMN St., Palmer, Mass. 01069. trained safety agents on call throughout New Year’s Eve. Telephone (413) 283-8393, Fax In case you haven’t gotten the message yet, this virus (413) 289-1977. is not a joke. Things are getting worse, and people are not following what’s needed to curb the spread. It’s understandable that in this atmosphere, governmental Will my U.K. pension affect PATRICK H. TURLEY instructions aren’t heeded. But when health experts and CEO private companies need to hold us accountable, and we still don’t listen, we’re in trouble. my Social Security? KEITH TURLEY President Thankfully, many preparations are underway to avoid RUSSELL GLOOR pute your benefit amount. Generally, the a complete catastrophe. The ball drop Guest columnist WEP reduction is determined either by celebration has been all but canceled. There will still the number of years of substantial Social EDITOR be a ball drop, but it will be broadcast virtually with no Dear Rusty: I lived and worked in the Security covered earnings that you have, or Melina Bourdeau public attendance allowed. Compared to the previous United Kingdom prior to coming to the the WEP maximums (one of which is that [email protected] year, the celebration will be desolate. Police will block U.S. at age 45, which qualified me for a your U.S. Social Security can’t be reduced off Time Square on New Year’s Eve. But while canceling U.K. State Pension worth the equivalent by more than half of your non-covered ADVERTISING SALES major events like this is an excellent first step towards of about $740 U.S. dollars per month. pension). With less than 20 years paying Maureen McGarrett Hall getting things under control, more needs to be done. Since moving to the U.S. I have contrib- into the U.S. system, you will incur one of [email protected] We can keep trying to police everyone and get them uted to the U.S. Social Security system the maximum WEP reductions. to do the right thing, but it’s not a very successful for 14 years and my estimated U.S. Social Something else important to understand SPORTS EDITOR approach. In Oregon, Governor Kate Brown issued a Security benefit is $1,643 per month. I is that the current estimate you have from Greg Scibelli “freeze” order before Thanksgiving, limiting bars and have heard about something called “WEP” Social Security doesn’t include the WEP [email protected] restaurants to takeout-only. In response, The Oregon and must be honest and say I don’t fully reduction. That estimate assumes that you Restaurant & Lodging Association and the Restaurant understand. Can you provide some advice will continue to earn at your current level SOCIAL MEDIA Law Center filed a lawsuit claiming the executive order or references so I can understand what hap- until you reach your full retirement age. was discriminatory. pens to these sums when I retire? I don’t You haven’t shared your birthdate, but Conflicts like these have frequently been politically have any other pension income, so under- from your email I assume you are now @ The Sentinel fueled, leading to a lack of understanding. But for under- standing these numbers is important. FYI, I about 60-years-old. I standing to happen, there must first be a willingness. hold both U.S. and U.K. passports and will f you were born in 1959, your full retire- WEB And while many believe they already know everything retire in the U.S.A. Signed: Blessed from ment age (FRA) for U.S. Social Security www.sentinel.turley.com there is to know about COVID-19, perhaps the only the UK purposes is 66 years and 10 months (if thing not grasped is its reality. you were born after that your FRA is 67, It doesn’t have to happen to you for it to be real. Dear Blessed: The “WEP” provision and if you were born before that subtract It’s not a conspiracy. Hospitals across the nation are you refer to is known as the “Windfall 2 months for each year prior to 1959). filled with dying COVID-19 patients. Many of them Elimination Provision.” It affects anyone Your FRA is when you will get your “full” are seniors who are family members and loved ones of who is eligible to collect Social Security Social Security benefit. If you claim before people that weren’t cautious. Let’s start the New Year off benefits, but who also has a pension from that (age 62 is the earliest you can claim) www.turley.com right by not spreading disease. another entity (corporation, public agen- your benefit will be reduced (even before Marcel Gemme has dedicated his life to helping others cy, or foreign country) which did not par- WEP), and if you wait beyond your FRA Turley Publications, Inc. cannot find help. He focuses his attention on helping individuals ticipate in the U.S. Social Security pro- you’ll earn Delayed Retirement Credits assume liability for the loss of find long-term Senior Care through his journalism, com- gram (meaning that SS FICA payroll taxes photographs or other materials (DRCs) which will increase your benefit submitted for publication. munity outreach, and his website, ECDOL.org. Excellent weren’t paid during that employment). amount. DRCs stop at age 70. Care, Decency, and Optimal Living are what he aims to Materials will not be returned WEP will reduce your U.S. Social Security except upon specific request bring to individuals looking for care options for them- benefit by using a special formula to com- when submitted. selves or their aging loved ones. See SOCIAL SECURITY, page 12 • THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 PAGE 7

❚ COMMUNITY

Submissions for BCA receives $10,000 grant town report STAFF REPORT cover sought BELCHERTOWN – The Belchertown BELCHERTOWN – The Cultural Alliance was one of 21 proj- Belchertown Selectboard is seeking art- ects to receive a Public Art for Spatial work and/or photographs by town resi- Justice grant for the 2021 fiscal year. The dents to be considered for the cover of PASJ grants sup- the 2020 Annual Town Report. port artists and Artwork or photographs relating to artistic collab- Belchertown must be vertical, and pref- orations to cre- erably no smaller than 5” x 7”, and suit- ate public art in able for reproduction. Massachusetts Please include your name, address that fosters pub- and telephone number on the lic imagination back. Once submitted, the artwork/pho- and contrib- tograph becomes the property of the utes to more Town of Belchertown. just futures Submissions for consideration should for our pub- be forwarded to the Selectmen’s Office, lic spaces and The Finnerty House, One South Main The Belchertown Cultural public culture. Street, P.O. Box 670, Belchertown, Alliance proudly supports Grants range MA 01007 no later than noon on Belchertown State School from $5,000 to Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2021. survivor and artist James Blackmore, in collabora- 10,000. tion with other former BSS The New residents in the creation England Immaculate Heart of of a public art installation Foundation Artist James Blackmore is one artist who is part of the upcoming Belchertown Cultural Alliance Project at the site of the former Mary to host dinner for the Arts “Public Art for Reflection: the Former Belchertown State School.” Belchertown State School. announced the GRANBY – The Immaculate Heart recipients of two of Mary Parish in Granby would like new grant opportunities for Massachusetts- State School and support development said Kim Szeto, NEFA public art program to thank the community for coming based artists and collaborators to imagine towards more just futures. director, “Public art has the ability and out to its Veteran’s Pork Roast dinner and create public art that fosters more just, “This project is just a piece of a larger responsibility to creatively engage import- which was held on Sunday, Nov. 15, vibrant and welcoming public spaces. umbrella project titled Walk of Reflection: ant and timely conversations, bring healing 2020. The Parish received great feed- The BCA project is “Public Art for Belchertown State School, which in addi- to space and place, and foster public imag- back and it is hoped that everyone who Reflection: the former Belchertown State tion to James Blackmore’s work will also ination for a more just version of what is participated found the whole process School” which received $10,000 in grant include a historical book walk featuring possible.” easy and pain free during this pandemic. funding. work by historians Katherine Anderson NEFA’s Spatial Justice grants are Mark your calendars because the The Belchertown Cultural Alliance and Ed Orzechowski, a performance piece made possible with funding from the church’s next event will be a Roast Beef proudly supports Belchertown State School produced by the Rainbow Players, and an Barr Foundation. “This moment is cry- dinner and it is scheduled for April 11, survivor and artist James Blackmore, in art installation produced by Community ing out for artists who can help us imag- 2021. collaboration with other former BSS resi- Options,” said BCA President April Jasak- ine a better world,” said Giles Li, the Barr The plan is to have pick up from 3 to dents in the creation of a public art instal- Bangs. Foundation’s Senior Program Officer for 5 p.m. at the rear of the church, while following current Board of Health pro- lation at the site of the former Belchertown “In the midst of the global health pan- Arts & Creativity. “We are proud to partner State School. By creating a platform for tocols. demic, economic downturn, and contin- with NEFA to support these important art- More information will be forth- expression for some of those harmed and ued racial injustice that 2020 has made ists and vital communities; their work forc- coming when the event gets closer, disenfranchised by this space, this body of more apparent, we are reminded that pub- es us to confront our own assumptions especially if indoor seating will be work will be a step towards justice for the lic spaces are not neutral and public art about who feels welcomed in public spaces allowed. Those still participating in site. made in public spaces is not neutral either. and reaffirms what the Foundation deeply social distancing will have the opportu- The installation will aim to connect As we reckon with complex histories and believes: that all people deserve the honor nity to have takeout. the community of BSS survivors and continued legacies of racism and white of being heard, seen, and valued.” For further information, call the Belchertown residents so that together they supremacy culture, we refocused our public Parish office at 413-467-9821. can tackle the legacy of the Belchertown art grantmaking towards spatial justice.” Kimberly Allen Team The REALTORS with the FREE Moving Truck, Odor Removal Machine & Carpet Cleaner 11 North Main Street, Belchertown 413-213-1500 413-221-4885 INDIVIDUAL REALTORS WITH TEAM POWER Patrick Nolan 413.786.5047 $ Lisa Bombard 413.250.5758 500 Laurie Swift 413.575.7831 Gift Card Anna Marsh 413.459.3457 Mike Goncalves 413.636.1335 HOME DEPOT Phim Mar 401.533.0242 OR LOWE’S Autumn Duby 413.230.7557 Will be given Brooke Packard 508.612.0821 at closing when you buy or sell with the Don Yu 413.345.2596 Kimberly Allen Team. Kristin Doucas 774.757.7795 Is A New Year Lets Get You Moving! *Must present coupon at 1st meeting with Kimberly Allen Team Member We Have CASH CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE MARKET ANALYSIS prior to expiring December 31, 2021. LOOKING BUYERS Wanting TO GET YOUR Your AS-IS/ LAND REAL ESTATE LICENSE? ANY CONDITION 1.44 acres on Old Sawmill Road, 100k CALL PATRICK NOLAN HOME. Over 100 Properties SOLD Yearly* Call Kimberly * Source: MLSPIN & FLEXMLS 1/1/2019-12/1/2019 2.19 acres on Ware Road, 100k 413-786-5047 3.5 Acres on Michael Sears, 60k For details. www.KimberlyAllenTeam.com PAGE 8 THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020

❚ EDUCATION Belchertown children’s NOTES meals program menu College For the week of Jan. 4 to 8 Hunter Juras from Amherst Thy Ton-Morrison Inducted into Note: Tuesday through Thursday are small meal kit items achieves fall 2020 Dean’s List The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi Monday: Cohort A Breakfast: banana bread and 100% juice. at Belmont University BATON ROUGE, LA – Thy Ton-Morrison of Lunch: pasta and meatballs, steamed broccoli and fruit. Granby, was recently initiated into The Honor Society NASHVILLE, TN – Hunter Juras qualified for the Fall of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective Tuesday: Cohort A 2020 Dean’s List at Belmont University. Eligibility is all-discipline collegiate honor society. Ton-Morrison (curbside meal kit pickup, based on a minimum course load of 12 hours and a qual- was initiated at MCPHS University. only Belchertown High School, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) ity grade point average of 3.5 with no grade below a C. Ton-Morrison is among approximately 30,000 stu- Approximately 55 percent of Belmont’s students dents, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be ini- Breakfast: apple frudel and fruit. this semester qualified for the Fall 2020 Dean’s List. tiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by Lunch: grades 7 to 12 oven roasted chicken, grades K Belmont Provost Dr. Thomas Burns said, “Achieving invitation only and requires nomination and approval to 6 chicken tenders, died carrots, mashed potatoes and a the recognition of Dean’s List during the Fall 2020 by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and dinner roll. semester is an extraordinary achievement. While we 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. are always impressed with students’ who are able to Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number Wednesday achieve this high level of recognition in their academic of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, Remote learning day, no in school meals endeavors, those students that reached this mark in Fall as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have 2020 demonstrated incredible diligence and commit- achieved scholarly distinction. Thursday: Cohort B ment to their academic work during very unusual and Breakfast: mini-waffles and fruit. stressful circumstances. We are so pleased to be able Lunch: BBQ chicken sandwich, fries and fruit. to recognize their efforts and our hope is that these students will continue investing in their studies to equip Friday: Cohort B them for a lifetime of learning and service.” (Small meal kits come home and orders due today) Breakfast: cereal bar, yogurt and 100% fruit juice. Lunch: cheese pizza, Caesar salad and school-baked Lawrenceville School Graduate Owen Oulundsen earns cookie. dean’s award with distinction at Colgate University Note HAMILTON, NY – Owen Oulundsen, a member of during the spring 2020 semester earn the Dean’s Award Pre-k and Kindergarten will offer a daily in-school alter- the Colgate University Class of 2023, has earned the with Distinction. native choice: Muffin, yogurt, vegetable, fruit, and milk spring 2020 Dean’s Award with Distinction. Colgate is a leading American university for students Grades 1 though 6 will offer a daily in-school alternate Oulundsen is an Economics major from who want classes with rigor, faculty with passion, and choice: Sunbutter and Jelly sandwich, vegetable, fruit and Belchertown, and is a graduate of the Lawrenceville confidence in knowing they will learn how to thrive in milk School. work and life. Colgate offers 56 majors and supports 25 Grades 7 to 12 will offer daily in-school alternative Students who receive a term grade point average of Division I athletic teams on a campus of about 3,000 choices: pizza station, deli bar and pre-made salads 3.6 or higher while completing at least three courses students in central New York. Students of the quarter announced BELCHERTOWN – The perseverance and earning Bryannah Auger Sofia Cafone Aliza Hayward Varvara Sas following students received 70s or above in all of their Piper Ripley Amanda Murray Josselyn Whalen Madyson Burns Student of the Quarter for classes during the first quar- Jillian Harper Josh Reynolds Kamilah Acosta-Morales Alyssa Courchesne the first quarter of the year ter of the year. Ryan Gould Molly Mazzafero Daniel Hulmes Jackson Benedetti at Jabish Brook Middle Quarter one Mackenzie Burch Mya Philpott Matthew Allen Kate Mark School. Grade-level teams Seventh grade Alexa Karabetsos Brennan Real Gavin Boisjolie Ryan Shea selected these students for Brooklyn Keeler Jordan Kalish Ava Rodrigues Jordan Wetherell Hannah Racine demonstrating outstanding Devynn Strange Morgan Delude Eighth grade Jack Bergeron Matt Vanasse

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THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 PAGE 9

❚ GRANBY ❚ BUSINESS First quarter Honor Roll at Granby Jr Sr High School Local real estate

STAFF REPORT Hauschild, Brianna Houghton, Cheyenne Emma Klekotka, Cooper Looney, Tegan Laramee and Maxwell Seymour. Maclure, Karlie Moriarty, Claire Rondeau, agent earns GRANBY – Granby Jr. Sr. High School Ninth grade maximum honors – Tyler Sudsbury and Kristen Trembley. would like to extend congratulations to Ciara Charest, Rhea Gagnon, Nicolas Eleventh grade high honors – Gabriel prestigious awards those students who achieved Honor Roll Grandmont, Jessica Holubowich, Cindy Arabik, Connor Asselin, Alyson Barsalou, BELCHERTOWN – Despite significant for the first quarter of the 2020-2021 Kusumo, Sara Lessard, Neil Lindberg, Tia Nathan C Breault, Liam Brown, William impact on the way real estate is bought and school year: Looney, Corey Rondeau, Grace Roy, David Burke, Liberty Conlin, Paige Galusha, sold as a result of the COVID-19 global Seventh grade maximum honors – Silchuk, Michael Swanigan and Emily Sienna Hill, Arash Karamshahi, Kayla pandemic, real estate agents have pivoted Brandon Chatel, Kaitlyn Curran, Benjamin Tremblay. Klekotka, Dylan Laramee, Jenna Lashway, to ensure that transactions continue to be French, Braeden Gallagher, Addison Ninth grade high honors - Zachary Jason Moura, Katrina Pelchat, Eric Puffer, closed in a safe and responsible manner. Gardner, Braydon LaDuke, Myli Laliberte- Auclair, Brandie Dumais, Peyton Justin, Madison Seaha, Rhaegan Sheehan, Jordyn Those local professionals who were best Witaszek, Ava-Elizabeth Loughman, Keith Colin Murdock and Phillip Silchuk. Sicard, Briana Sosa, Raymond Toth, able to adapt to the change and provide Patterson and Noah Rodriguez. Ninth grade honors – Benjamin Gabrielle Walz and Brandon Wishart. exceptional service to their clients were Seventh grade high honors – Emma Berger, Madison Bombard, Chloe Castro, Eleventh grade honors – Evan honored recently for outstanding achieve- Beaulieu, Lea Charest, Thomas DeWitt, Kamdyn Lopez, Keira McKinnon, Nikolas Anderson, Alexis Ariza, Nathan J Breault, ment by EXIT Realty Corp. International Edward Dziok, Durant Garden, Daniel Misiaszek and Noel Summerlin. Casey Funk, Nathan Grandmont, Isaiah during a special awards presentation Hackett, Karina Huertas Guzman, Annalise Tenth grade maximum honors – Mejias, Edward O’Grady, Declan Otto, broadcast throughout the U.S. and Canada: Patterson, Riley Pierce, Faith Ramos, Elizabeth Adamites, Michael Arabik, Kaitlyn Ouellette, Alaina Shippee and • Rhiannon Gresty, Franchisee Taylor Santos and Stephen Szlosek. Markus Baran, Alexis Bogdanovich, Michael Toth. with EXIT Real Estate Executives in Seventh grade honors – Ariana Beaulieu, Joshua Chateauneuf, Patrick French, Twelfth grade maximum – Zachary Belchertown was honored with the Chase Clark, Brodie Funk, Jake Gagnon, Madyson Gaj, Logan Gallagher, Rebecca Couture, Kyra Dimitropolis, Gabriel Bronze Award by EXIT Realty Corp. Michaela Manegio, Allison Maslak, Gavel, Emma Hall, Nolan Hall, Jack Godard, Kyla Grenier, Dakota LeClair, International. The award was given in rec- Gabriel Petelle and Anthony Santiago. Hartling, Olivia Hauschild, Abigail Dylan Moriarty, Nicolette Nickless, ognition of closing between 20 and 39 real Eighth grade maximum honors - Jena Huebner, Brady Pete, Katherine Vallee and Nicholas Parker, Eric Rakowski, Faith Roy, estate transaction sides during the produc- Abbott, Nathan Benson, Mabel Carillon, Robert Walsh. Nolan Sullivan, Emily Vallee and Rosalynn tion year July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020. Margaret Crawford, Cassandra Flaherty, Tenth grade high honors - Eva Bartosz, Vollbrecht. “Real estate professionals who can Cole Fuller, Madison Lacasse, Alexis Samuel Braese, Griffin Funk, Matthew Twelfth grade high honors - Dylan quickly and effectively adapt to any shift- Lapite, Gavin Moreno, Jack Ouellette, Gancarz, Paul Lucchesi IV and Grace Holubowich, Aidan Johnson, Jenna ing market conditions - even one as unusu- Owen Randall, Autumn Sicard, Austin Parsons. Learned, Dylan LeClair, Steven Pisano, al as this - will thrive,” said Tami Bonnell, Smith and Stewart Szlosek. Tenth grade honors – Thomas Carriere, Landon Roy, Tyler Sabourin and Niki CEO, EXIT Realty Corp. International. Eighth grade high honors - Aiden James Curran-Jeffers, Abigail Feldman, Sharma. “It is because of the dedication and hard Beach, Brennan Dwyer, Gavin Kennedy, Alexander Galusha, Kody Laramee, Max Twelfth grade honors - Michael Collins, work of our team that we have continued Cameron LeBlanc, Ava McFarland, Tristan Lempke, Frank Manegio III, Lauren Efrain Knightly, Edward Kusumo, Evan to grow throughout the U.S. and Canada. Moe, Emma Parsons, Makayla Trudell, Parker, Hao Pham and Carter White. Normand, Frachesca Ortiz, Nicholas We are proud of their service to the com- Molly Zumbruski Eleventh grade maximum – Joseph Pennington, Josuet Torres, Steven Torres, munity and of their well-earned accom- Eighth grade honors – Sawyer Clarke, Boyington, Dana Chateauneuf, Gianna Jr. and Jovany Velez. plishments and extend our warmest con- Zachariah Dowd, Ethan Fournier, Shaylin DiRico, Emily Frank, Ariana Klekotka, gratulations.” About EXIT Realty EXIT Realty is a company founded and built on human potential. A full service, forward-thinking, real estate franchisor Upcoming events at the Granby library with offices across North America, EXIT GRANBY – The following are upcom- the library Tuesday through Friday of the dough hedgehog craft, just like the hedge- has to-date paid out more than a half a bil- ing events at the Granby Public Library. week prior in library lobby 10:30 a.m. to hog from “The Hat” by Jan Brett. (Pick lion dollars in single-level residual income Make and take bags at the Granby 5:30 p.m. up for the make and take bags will be to its associates. The Expert Marketing Library and CFCE Zoom Playgroup For the Zoom link, email Marti at mwe- from Jan. 5 to 8.) Suite(tm) including geolocation Smart People are invited to join the playgroup [email protected]. Jan. 19: Snowman – create your own Sign(tm) technology gives sellers an edge on Zoom, stop by for a MAKE AND with cotton balls and hear a snowman in a competitive marketplace. The Focus TAKE to go with it, or just pick up a make Zoom playgroup dates and make story. (Pick up for the make and take bag on Good Health blog promotes wellness at and take bag. and take bag and story theme will be from Jan. 12 to 15.) work and home. A portion of every trans- Each week, join Marti, the playgroup Jan. 26: Snowflakes, let it snow! Design action fee received by EXIT Realty Corp. facilitator from 10 to 11 a.m., for senso- Jan. 5: The mitten make and take mit- your own snowflakes with cotton swabs. International is applied to its charitable ry play, stories, songs and take and make ten and animal craft based on the “The We’ll read a snowflake story. (Pick up for fund. To-date, more than $6 million has crafts from the library. Mitten” by Jan Brett. (Pick up for the make the make and take bag will be from Jan. 19 been pledged to charity. For more informa- Below are the playgroup dates. The and take bags will be from Dec. 29 to 31.) from 22.) tion, please visit www.exitrealty.com and take and make bags will be available at Jan. 12: The hat make and take play www.joinexitrealty.com.

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[email protected] @turleysports acebook.com/turleysports

A TURLEY PUBLICATION ❙ SPORTSwww.turley.com SEND US YOUR SPORTS SUBMISSIONS www.sports.turley.com Pathfinder approved for winter sports

TIM PETERSON were very excited to get back did pass a motion to allow the Sports Correspondent on the field again this fall with winter sports season to go on as their friends and coaches,” said scheduled. PALMER—After dealing with Pathfinder Athletic Director Joe The Pioneers boys’ and girls’ no COVID-19 related issues Baldyga during the school com- teams are scheduled during the recently completed mittee meeting held on December to play about ten games against fall sports season, the athletic 16. “We did manage to get neighboring high schools. department at Pathfinder Regional through the fall season without However, none of those games Vocational Technical High School any COVID related incidents will be taking place inside the is planning on having a winter regarding athletics.” Pathfinder gymnasium, which is sports season. Following a lengthy discussion, currently being used as a cafete- “All of our student-athletes the Pathfinder school committee ria. “It would be very difficult for us to host any basketball games due to the circumstances our gym is in right now,” Baldyga said. “We’re planning on playing games at our opponent’s gyms. We’ll also be holding practices at outside venues.” Wrestling is normally another winter sport held at Pathfinder, but that sport was moved by the MIAA to the newly created Fall II season. A committee member did ask Baldyga about the possibility of moving basketball to the Fall II season, which is slated to run from late February until the end of April. “Most high schools in the area are trying to get the winter sports season in during the traditional winter season,” Baldyga said. “The MIAA did move wrestling to Fall II. If we also moved bas- ketball to that season, I’m not sure there would be any teams for us to compete against at that point. We would need three or four other schools to compete against during the Fall II season.” The first practice of the high school basketball season is sched- uled to take place on January FILE PHOTOS 11. The season is slated to end Pathfinder finds itself without a home court heading into the season. on March 1 without a postseason The teams in the Pathfinder year ago. Their season came to an tournament being held. basketball bubble are scheduled end following a loss at Franklin “It’ll be about half of a regu- to be Palmer, Ware, Monson, and Tech in a Western Mass. Division lar basketball season,” Baldyga Hampden Charter. 4 tournament. The girls’ varsi- Pathfinder High School was able to play fall sports outdoors successfully. This added. “We’ll also be playing The Lady Pioneers, who are winter, basketball has been approved, but Pathfinder’s gymnasium is not available opponents similar to those our coached by Kevin Aldrich, fin- for home games. soccer teams played in the fall.” ished with a 12-9 overall record a See PATHFINDER, page 11 •

Rollback will ‘not Relics able to get through 2020 season LUDLOW – The Western degrees. affect winter sports’ Mass Relics, which is a Senior * Players were required to wear GREGORY A. SCIBELLI at-home advisory from 10 p.m. Softball League, that’s been in masks in the field. [email protected] to 5 p.m. existence since 1994, was faced * Social distancing was The advisory will likely affect this Spring with the possibility of observed when a team was bat- REGION – In a statement game times for the winter sea- their season being canceled due ting. Players brought lawn chairs released last week by the son, but the sports that will to the Coronavirus. With the sea- to accomplish this. Massachusetts Interscholastic be allowed for the winter sea- son questionable and the Relics * There was no tagging out a Athletic Association, the roll- son will still go on despite the always concerned for player player. All plays were considered back plan by Gov. Charlie Baker restrictions. It is also possible safety, the Relics worked close- a force play. will not affect winter sports. some of the restrictions will be ly with the Board of Health, the * Handshaking and fist pumps Baker’s plan decreases capaci- lifted as the season goes on. Commonwealth of Massachusetts, wasn’t allowed. ties in most businesses and other Tara Bennett, director of the Town of Ludlow and The Fish * Bats were wiped down and venues, as well as the indoor communications for the MIAA, and Game Club to be one of the handled by the barrel. gathering size being shrunk to said the Massachusetts Office few sports leagues in Western * New balls were frequently just 10 people. of Energy and Environmental Mass to play a full schedule. changed. Because of COVID-19 surges Affairs has been in touch with The Western Mass Relics had * Spectators weren’t allowed that have occurred over the last the MIAA regarding Baker’s 176 players agree to play and initially, but later in the season two months, Baker has strength- rollback of the “re-opening” of fortunately not one person came were allowed to watch the game ened mask mandates, and scaled Massachusetts. down with the Coronavirus. from the parking lot. back business, and has estab- “The office (EEA) con- Among the steps taken to play The Western Mass Relics are lished an attempt at a curfew by firmed with the MIAA that Gov. safely were the following: looking forward to the 2021 sea- closing restaurants at 9:30, shut- * Temperatures were taken son and welcome all new players. ting down alcohol sales at the SUBMITTED PHOTO upon arrival. The players had to For further information go to their More than 170 players were able to be same time, and issuing a stay- See WINTER, page 11 • record a temperature below 100 website: westernmassrelics.org. a part of the league in 2020. THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 PAGE 11

❚ SPORTS Pioneers to host Hall of Fame announces eligible MIAA signs Pelham clinic deal with LUDLOW – Western United candidates for the Class of 2021 Pioneers FC is excited to offer a soc- SPRINGFIELD – The Naismith in the timeframe of NBA All-Star cer clinic in Pelham, MA for players in Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Weekend, which is scheduled for early University the Massachusetts North Region. The fall today announced the list of eligible can- March. The entire Class of 2021, includ- clinic provides off-season training and didates for the Class of 2021, includ- ing those selected by the direct elect Orthopedics skill development by WUP FC coaches. ing first-time nominees Doug Collins, committees, will be unveiled in the time- There are two sessions available. sign up Michael Cooper, Howard Garfinkel, Lou frame of the NCAA Final Four sched- FRANKLIN – The Massachusetts for one or both. It makes a great holiday Henson, , , uled for early April. Event details are Interscholastic Athletic Association gift for friends and family members. and . forthcoming, and the announcement (MIAA) has signed a multi-year part- This program is offered to boys and Returning to the ballot are fan-favor- timeline is subject to change. nership with University Orthopedics to girls born in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, and ite nominees Chauncey Billups, Chris The Class of 2021 Enshrinement become an Official Orthopedics Provider 2014. The four-week program includes Bosh, Richard Hamilton, Bob Huggins, ceremony is scheduled to take place in of the MIAA. The partnership coincides one practice per week for a total of $65 , , , Springfield, Mass., in September 2021. with the Feb. 1 opening of University’s per session ($130 for 2 sessions). Sessions Swin Cash and Becky Hammon among As previously announced, the Class first Massachusetts location in Mansfield. will consist of a max of 15 players per others. of 2020 Enshrinement ceremony has The partnership will initially be field (COVID regulation for the players’ A first look at the list of eligible nom- been rescheduled and relocated due to focused on the southeastern part of safety). inees was provided by The Jump on COVID-19 and is scheduled for May the state, with University Orthopedics SESSION 1: MONDAYS 1/11, 1/25, ESPN, hosted by Rachel Nichols, and 13-15, 2021 at Mohegan Sun. supporting MIAA events taking place 2/1, & 2/8 Class of 2021 nominee Paul Pierce. A Tickets for the Naismith Memorial in Districts 7, 8 and 9. University will Boys and Girls Born 2013 and 2014: complete list of eligible candidates can Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2020 also serve as the Presenting Sponsor of Session is at 5 p.m. be found attached. and 2021 Enshrinement ceremonies and all upcoming MIAA South Sectional Boys and Girls Born 2010, 2011, and Following the Hall of Fame’s tradi- various events surrounding the ceremo- Tournaments. 2012: Session is at 6 p.m. tional timeline, Finalists from the North nies will be on-sale at a later date. For “We are excited to partner with an SESSION 2: MONDAYS 2/22, 3/1, 3/8, American and Women’s committee for the latest news and updates, follow @ organization like the MIAA that pro- & 3/15 the Class of 2021 will be announced hoophall on Twitter and Instagram. vides such an important role in the Boys and Girls Born 2013 and 2014: lives of thousands of student athletes Session is at 5 p.m. and their families. With our new loca- Boys and Girls Born 2010, 2011, and tion in Mansfield, we look forward to 2012: Session is at 6 p.m. serving these communities and growing The sessions will be held at Pelham AHL season delayed to February our partnership in the years to come,” Elementary School at 45 Amherst Road, said Edward Akelman, MD, President of Pelham, MA 01002. SPRINGFIELD – American Hockey American Hockey League season are still University Orthopedics. League President and CEO Scott to be determined. “The health and safety of our Howson has announced that the league’s In operation since 1936, the AHL Association’s 230,000 student-athletes PATHFINDER • from page 10 Board of Governors has approved moving serves as the top development league for participating at our 376 member schools the anticipated start date of the 2020-21 all 31 National Hockey League teams. is paramount to our mission,” said Bill ty hoop team did squeak out an exciting season to Feb. 5, 2021, due to the ongo- Nearly 90 percent of today’s NHL players Gaine, Executive Director of the MIAA. 36-35 home win over Hampden Charter ing COVID-19 public health crisis. are American Hockey League graduates, “The opportunity to enhance that man- last January. They didn’t face either The AHL continues to work with its and more than 100 honored members of tra with the expertise and support of Palmer, Monson, or Ware. member clubs to monitor developments the Hockey Hall of Fame spent time in University Orthopedics is a welcomed The Pathfinder boys’ varsity bas- and local guidelines in all 31 league cit- the AHL in their careers. and valued gift.” Through this partner- ketball squad, who’s coached by David ies. Further details regarding the 2020-21 ship, University will provide video con- Oliveira, won a total of seven games last tent related to safe training methods, winter. They did face Monson twice and recovery and other orthopedic health Hampden Charter once, which were all measures. The new UOI Facility is locat- ter season. In order to reduce potential losses. WINTER • from page 10 ed at 10 Reservoir Street in Mansfield. Just like during the soccer season, all of for crowds, there will be no winter tour- the players, coaches, and referees will be Baker’s announcement on Dec. 22 of naments. The pandemic cancelled the required to wear masks on the court. The rollbacks on certain sectors will not have end of the winter state basketball tour- players will also have to wear them on the an impact on high school athletics.” nament last March. There has not been Follow Turley Sports bench, but a mask free area will be set-up As a result of that confirmation, no an MIAA-sanctioned tournament game in each gymnasium. The spectators, who further restrictions will be added to the since that time, and it is unknown when on Instagram will mainly be the home team parents, will EEA’s release of workplace safety and there will be a tournament game, though also have to wear masks. re-opening standards for businesses and the spring season is a definite possibility urley Publications “We’re going to try to do everything that other entities providing youth and adult as a return to normalcy could be realized sports department we can do to keep our players and coaches amateur sports activities. by June. Thas recently joined as safe as possible Baldyga said. “We do The EEA has been responsible for Winter sports in Western Instagram. You can find our account by follow a daily protocol list and the MIAA issuing the guidance utilized by the Massachusetts are supposed to begin for searching “turleysports.” We will regu- has also made several rule modifications MIAA to conduct sports safely during most schools following the New Year’s larly feature samples of photos that you this year.” the coronavirus pandemic, which is holiday on Jan. 4. Games could begin will see in our publications on a week- There won’t be a jump ball held at the hopefully nearing its end. on or around Jan. 14. Basketball, hock- ly basis. Please follow and share with start of the game or overtime. A coin toss The EEA is mandating mask-wear- ey, and swimming are supposed to take your friends and loved ones. We will will determine which team will get the ball ing in all sport environments where it is place with indoor track being moved to be featuring photos from all 11 of our first. possible to wear masks. There will also the bubble season and wrestling could sports sections in the coming weeks, but When a player inbounds the ball, the be limitations to the numbers of play- potentially take place in the spring sea- as always, you can see all the photos that closet defender will be six feet away. No ers and personnel allowed at basketball son. appear by subscribing to your local paper player will be allowed to inbound the ball courts and hockey rinks during the win- or picking up a copy in your community. on the baseline. There will be no halftime. The breaks at the end of each quarter will last 2:30. Timeouts will be 1:15 each. Teams will not be allowed to have more The Library Loft than 15 players and no more than three coaches on a bench for a game. Schoolhouse Commons Historical Center • 1085 Park Street, Palmer Things will probably be changing on a daily basis just like they have since last March, but the members of the Pathfinder We are celebrating our boys’ and girls’ basketball teams are hop- 20th year at the Schoolhouse Commons. ing to play some games this winter. Thanks to our wonderful “friends,” volunteers and patrons. Hours: Tues. 10am - 4pm • Wed. 10am - 4pm NEWS & FEATURES Thurs. 10am - 4pm • Fri. 10am-4pm As a paper of record, we attempt to cover all general news, Hope to see you there personality profiles, and community features that we know about. This includes all selectmen and school committee meetings as Book donations will be accepted at the Palmer Public well as spot planning board, board of health, finance, and other Library or the Library Loft during open hours. town meetings determined by the issue’s relevance to our readers. Please, no magazines or Reader's Digest Condensed Books. There are the annual major community event features that we should always cover, but we are more than open to suggestions of We accept books only in good, clean condition. other features to celebrate the fabric of our communities and their For more information call 283-3330 ext. 100 many interesting occupants. Our loyal advertisers provide funding for this paid staff coverage. For more information on news or community features for The Sentinel, please email [email protected]. Proceeds To Benefit the Palmer Public Library PAGE 12 THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020

❚ POLICE LOGS

were no reports of a lost package. It was apartment complex for a report of damage Monday, Dec. 21 Belchertown Police also trash day, so it was not able to be to the front door. The resident said when 11:54 a.m. – An officer was on patrol, determined if the items in the package were they came home, they noticed holes in the stopped at intersection of Depot Rd and Editor’s note: The following are brief stolen or if the empty package was simply door possibly caused by a hammer. There Franklin St when they did a random license explanations of select entries in the thrown out. There is no further information are no suspects at this time. Maintenance plate inquiry on a vehicle in front of them. Belchertown Police log and arrests for the at this time. for the apartment complex was contacted. The registered owner of the vehicle had weeks of Dec. 16 through Dec. 22. The 11:50 p.m. – Officers responded to a one There is no additional information at this an expired license and inspection stick- information was provided by a member of vehicle accident on Bay Rd. The operator time. er. The officer pulled the vehicle over the police department based on the review of the vehicle said they hit black ice in the 6:57 a.m. – Officers responded to an and identified the driver as the owner of of the detailed log summary. This feature roadway and lost control of the vehicle. accident in the parking lot of Belchertown the vehicle. The driver didn’t know their is designed to provide context and explana- The vehicle drifted across the south bound High School. The person was driving too license was expired and attempted to renew tion to some of the calls police respond to lane, spun around and came to rest against fast for the road conditions and failed to it online. Due to documents needed, they every day. Of the 251 calls police respond- a tree. The vehicle was towed from the maintain their travel lane, jumping the curb were unable to renew their license. The ed to, there were 15 incidents, six acci- scene. No injuries were reported. and coming to rest in the grass. There was operator was able to get friend to pick them dents, two arrest/summons and seven cita- front-end damage to the vehicle but no up, however they couldn’t get someone to tions. Thursday, Dec. 17 injuries were noted. The vehicle was towed drive the car back to their residence and 6:25 p.m. – Belchertown officers from the scene. the vehicle was towed. The officer gave the ARRESTS/SUMMONS responded to assist Belchertown Fire and 9:54 a.m. – Officers spoke with a resi- operator a verbal warning for an expired Friday, Dec. 18 paramedics for a report of an incapacitated dent in regards to being scammed out of license and a citation for having an expired 7:38 a.m. – Two 18-year-old female. money. The resident said they were having inspection sticker. Belchertown men were issued summons for computer issues and found a number for negligent operation of a motor vehicle. Friday, Dec. 18 Microsoft. The resident called the number The Belchertown School Resource offi- 10:30 a.m. – Officers responded to a and the person said they needed money Granby Police cer received a report of two vehicles drift- residence for a report of an out of control to do the computer work. The person was ing in the senior parking lot of the school. youth. Officers spoke with the child and the advised to purchase the amount of money Editor’s Note: The Granby Police Two individuals were identified by staff, SRO was notified of the incident and will needed in gift cards and provided the call- Department responded to 97 calls for the who told the officer the main office has follow up with them at a later point. er with the card numbers. Following the week of Dec. 18 through Dec. 24. Those received calls as well. The two vehicles 12:33 p.m. – Officers took a report of phone call, the resident became aware of arrested are presumed innocent until were sliding around the parking lot near unemployment fraud. the scam. The resident filed a report with proven guilty in a court of law. All infor- several vehicles and driving in an erratic 12:33 p.m. – An officer responded to a the police and contact their banking of the mation is provided by the Granby Police manner. Based on the calls, camera foot- local bank for an attempted breaking and incident. Department. age of the incident and several vehicles entering incident into an ATM. The inci- 11:20 p.m. – An officer responded to a in area, the two individuals were issued a dent is under investigation. residence for a report of a package stolen Friday, Dec. 18 summons. 4:22 p.m.– Officers responded to package from a front porch. The resident 2:52 p.m. – Officers took a report of Chauncey Walker Rd for a one vehicle said the package was delivered to the res- identity theft. The incident is still under ACCIDENTS/INCIDENTS accident. The operator was heading east- idence and was last observed at 8 p.m. investigation. Wednesday Dec. 16 bound on Chauncey Walker Rd when they Later in the evening the resident reported 9:01 a.m. – Officer took report of a sto- reached for their cell phone, losing control noticing the package was then missing. The Saturday, Dec. 19 len bicycle. of the vehicle. The vehicle stuck a poll. resident also stated there was another box 11:33 a.m. – Officers investigated a two- 1:33 p.m. – Officers responded to a resi- The vehicle was towed to the operator’s containing other items that was missing as car accident on Amherst St. No injuries dence for a mental health crisis. residence. No injuries were reported. The well. There are no known suspects. were reported. 2:14 p.m. – An officer spoke with a Mill operator was cited for impeded operation 11:48 p.m. – An officer on patrol on 10:32 p.m. – Officers investigated an Valley Rd. resident concerning a package of a motor vehicle. Chauncey Walker Rd noticed a vehicle attempted use of counterfeit money at that was found. The officer spoke with the 6:13 p.m. – An officer spoke with an pulled over with its hazards on and a deer Cumberland Farms. The incident is under reporting party who said they found the individual about ongoing custody issues. was laying in roadway. The deer appeared investigation. empty package across the cemetery on to be badly injured. The operator told the the side of the road. The packages were Saturday, Dec. 19 officer they struck the deer. Due to the Sunday, Dec. 20 addressed to a Franklin St. resident. There 1:01 a.m. – Officers responded to an deer’s injuries, it was euthanized. 2:12 p.m. –Officers investigated a two- car accident on Truby St. Minor injuries Sunday, Dec. 20 were reported. 2:57 p.m. – Officers responded to an 3:41 p.m. – Officers investigated a two- accident on West St. One vehicle was trav- car accident at the intersection of School elling west on West St when the operator and East State St. Minor injuries were swerved to right to avoid a motor vehicle reported. that was taking up more than half roadway. 3:56 p.m. – Officers investigated a motor The first vehicle went off road into a snow- vehicle accident on Chicopee St. The oper- bank. The vehicle was being pulled right ator lost control of the vehicle and drove and when the operator attempted to correct off the roadway. the vehicle, the vehicle struck a tree. It was snowing at the time of the incident. There Monday, Dec. 21 were no injuries reported. 4:45 p.m. – Officers investigated a two- 3:34 p.m. – Officers responded to an car accident at the intersection of Amherst accident on Springfield Rd. One vehicle and West State St. No injuries were report- was heading south on Springfield Rd when ed. the operator lost control on the snowy road- 4:47 p.m. – An officer issued a criminal way, sliding sidesways and striking a sec- citation for leaving the scene of a motor ond vehicle’s driver’s side rear. No injuries vehicle accident. were reported and both vehicles were driv- en from the scene. Tuesday, Dec. 22 3:37 p.m. – An officer spoke with an 8:32 a.m. – Officers took a report of individual in regards to a possible 209A identity theft. The incident still under violation. investigation. 8:38 p.m. – An officer was outside the Police Station when they heard a crash. A vehicle was pulling out the Chestnut Hill Wednesday, Dec. 23 parking lot when the vehicle slid into the 5:29 a.m. – Officers investigated a motor second street light in from State St. There vehicle accident on West St. The operator CLUES ACROSS hydrocarbon 4. Shelter from wind 26. Utilize was damage reported to the street light. The lost control of their vehicle and drove off 1. Home of the 36. Supervises flying 5. Sign language 29. Beloved operator made arrangements to remove the the roadway. A criminal citation was issued Cowboys 37. An actor who 6. Pigpen Hollywood alien vehicle. to the operator for leaving the scene of an 7. “Hawaii Five-O” plays a 7. Make sore 30. Unwell accident. actor McBride principal role 8. Flat metal shelves 31. More destitute 10. Most aged 38. Furnace for 9. Forms that say 32. Grinded together 12. Fitted with a shoe pottery who you are 35. Sun up in New 13. Courteously 39. Fall back 10. Cigar lovers’ York 14. They form over 40. 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Sixth month of aging workers “Finally!” 43. “__ the Man” (2022?). We don’t yet know what the stan- the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and Hebrew calendar (abbr.) 18. One of the wise Musical dard maximum WEP reduction for 2022 accredited by the National Social Security 21. Short cry 51. Body part men’s gifts 44. One thousand will be, but for 2020 it is $480. That is Association. NSSA and the AMAC 22. State capital 20. Take away from cubic feet (abbr.) the most that your Social Security benefit Foundation and its staff are not affiliated 27. Rural delivery CLUES DOWN 23. In accordance 45. West coast time could normally be reduced. But if your with or endorsed by the Social Security 28. “Twilight Zone” 1. Chinese mountain with the law zone U.K. pension is about $740 U.S. Dollars, Administration or any other governmen- creator range 24. Nicole Kidman’s 46. Mimic then your maximum reduction should be tal entity. To submit a question, visit our 33. Gigabyte 2. Romanian city husband 47. You can get one about $370, because the WEP reduction website (amacfoundation.org/programs/ can’t be more than half of your non-cov- social-security-advisory) or email us at 34. Flammable 3. Fishermen cast it 25. NY Giants legend in summer ered (U.K.) pension. So, your U.S. Social [email protected]. Security benefit of $1,643 will most likely Russell Gloor is a Social Security advi- be reduced by about $370 to about $1,303. sor for AMAC. THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 PAGE 13 Country Bank announces promotions Hampshire WARE – Country Bank, a a Bachelor of Arts in History members’ contributions to the Sheriff alerts full-service financial institu- from Worcester State University Bank’s success, but also because tion serving central and western and has a master’s degree in each individual’s history with the residents to Massachusetts, today announced Education from American Bank is a perfect demonstration several recent promotions of long- International College. of the various career path oppor- phone scam time staff members. Erin Skoczylas has been pro- tunities available in communi- Scott Emerson has been pro- moted to assistant control- ty banking. As an organization, REGION – Hampshire County moted to vice president, IT secu- ler. Skoczylas began her career we are committed to helping Sheriff Patrick Cahillane is alert- Alyson Weeks rity. Emerson has over 20 years at Country Bank 23 years ago each team member identify their ing residents to a phone scam being of experience in the technology as a part-time operations clerk. career goals and work with them perpetrated in the . industry and has been an essential Before transitioning to account- to reach those objectives. Their The scam, commonly known part of the innovation and tech- ing in 2008, she worked in var- actions, along with so many oth- as “phone spoofing” or “caller ID nology team at Country Bank ious positions throughout the ers, contribute to the Bank’s over- spoofing,” is when a scammer uses for 14 years. Emerson earned a operations department. Skoczylas all success and we are pleased to caller ID spoofing technology to impersonate the phone numbers Bachelor of Arts in Psychology holds an Associates of Science be able promote these individuals of local businesses or government from UMass Amherst and has degree from Springfield Technical for their dedication to the organi- agencies in attempt to acquire also achieved several professional Community College in Business zation.” money or some sort of personal certifications, including informa- Administration and a Bachelor information. tion systems security profession- of Business Administration from About Country Bank On Monday, Dec. 7, Sheriff al, information security manager, Western New England University. Cahillane said his office had and GIAC enterprise defender. Skoczylas is also a 2017 graduate Country Bank is a full-ser- Erin Skoczylas received several calls from area Alyson Weeks has been pro- of the New England School for vice mutual community bank residents reporting that they had moted to assistant vice pres- Financial Studies. serving central and western received calls from a person iden- ident, human resources. Weeks Promoting employees from Massachusetts with 14 offices in tifying themselves as an employ- began her career at Country within and providing continuous Ware, Palmer, West Brookfield, ee of the Hampshire Sheriff’s Bank 12 years ago as a teller learning and development oppor- Brimfield, Belchertown, Office seeking money due to court and has worked in various other tunities are the foundations of Wilbraham, Ludlow, Leicester, charges, and then requesting pay- roles in the retail banking divi- Country Bank’s philosophy. Paxton, Charlton, and Worcester. ment via gift cards. sion, including teller supervisor, Senior Vice President of Country Bank is a member of “The Hampshire Sheriff’s Office branch operations manager, and Human Resources, Miriam Siegel FDIC, DIF, and the SUM net- will never, never, call private cit- retail operations manager, before said, “We are excited to announce work. Country Bank can be izens and demand payment or joining the human resources these promotions, not just in rec- reached at 800-322-8233 or accept payment of any kind over team five years ago. Weeks holds ognition of these long-term team online at countrybank.com. the phone,” Sheriff Cahillane said. “If you receive such a call, the best Scott Emerson tactic is to simply hang up. Anyone receiving such a fraudulent call might also consider contacting their local police department, or notify- ing my office at 413-584-5911. The Free COVID-19 vaccines at Big Y pharmacies when available FBI website – www.fbi.gov – also SPRINGFIELD – In partnership with crucial public health partners for increasing independently owned supermarket chains has information about how to avoid the U.S. Department of Health and Human access and convenience of COVID-19 vac- in New England. Big Y operates 85 loca- such scams.” Services, all 33 Big Y Pharmacy and cines. tions throughout Massachusetts and Here are some additional tips Wellness Centers are preparing to administer Big Y’s pharmacy team currently provides Connecticut including 71 supermarkets, from the Better Business Bureau on the COVID-19 vaccines once approved and seasonal flu and other routine vaccines. They Fresh Acres Market, Table & Vine Fine what to do if a scammer calls: available for distribution. This partnership is plan to participate in any additional training Wines and Liquors and 12 Big Y Express • Hang up – don’t press any but- being established in anticipation that one or to ensure the safe administration of the vac- gas and convenience locations with almost tons and, if you received a voice- more COVID-19 vaccines will be authorized cine along with educating their customers 12,000 employees. Big Y has been recog- mail, don’t call the scammer back. and approved for use in the United States about the process. nized by Forbes as a Best-in-State Employer We all like to have the last word, as part of the Federal Pharmacy Partnership According to Charles L. D’Amour, pres- in Massachusetts and Connecticut, as well as but returning the phone call may Strategy for COVID-19. This initiative by ident and CEO, “We are proud to partner 2018 Employer of Choice by the Employers just give the scammer information the HHS with pharmacies across the United with the United States government in order Association of the Northeast. Founded in they can use. States is part of the federal pharmacy pro- to provide free COVID-19 vaccines to our 1936 by brothers Paul and Gerald D’Amour, • Don’t trust caller ID – scam- gram aimed to further increase access to the customers. When a vaccine is available, our the store was named after an intersection in mers have technology that lets them vaccines. The partnership has deemed phar- pharmacy teams will be ready to administer Chicopee, Massachusetts where two roads macists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy them as per CDC guidelines.” converge to form a “Y”. interns in retail and grocery stores as being Big Y Foods, Inc. is one of the largest See PHONE SCAM, page 15 • Your Local BUSINESS CONNECTION Complete A/C Service Glass Installations Used Cars • Windshields STADLER ACE HARDWARE, INC. Expert Body & Fender We Make Repair • Painting WE WISH YOU REECE Hydrolic Little Friends AUTO BODY A HAPPY & SAFE Child Care Center Plow Hoses 58 Daniel Shays Hwy. (Rt. 202 No.) Belchertown 323-6664 NEW YEAR! 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❚ AMHERST

12Classifieds WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS ❙ SERVING 50 LOCAL COMMUNITIES Call us at 413.283.8393 Piano artist releases first songbook 17 tracks whose dates go back to album, Mountains Made of Shadow, REAL ESTATE Sheet music book was 1985, and whose dates of recording Anthems Made of Light (Mt. Pollux 35 years in the making harken back to 2007. Music). That album also went FOR RENT STORAGE As someone who has performed in to #5 on Gaia Prime Radio’s Best 21 U.S. states and Canada, Kennedy Contemporary Instrumental Albums SELF STORAGE AMHERST – When Dan Kennedy harkens back to the Romantic Era of 2018. WARREN/WARE released his “Best of Solo Piano, Lowest prices, new units! of 1830s Germany when piano stu- With 24 years experience, Kennedy Call Mary (413) 531-3722. 2007-2018” he technically became an dents were required to include an teaches piano and theory/composition Securestoragema.com author. But that’s not why he want- improvisation in their home concerts. at his home studio in South Amherst. ed to write books, it was in order to With a style sometimes described as His young composers have attended WINTER STORAGE Brand New Fa- notate his own piano music and make cility Ware. Boats, RV’s, Jet Skis. “Classical Crossover,” Kennedy is a Harvard, Amherst College, Berklee, (413)531-3722 Mary it available to others. contemporary solo pianist, classically Yale, and BUTI (the junior division ALL REAL ESTATE advertised “I admittedly have been very slug- trained at Oberlin Conservatory and of Tanglewood.) He has also served herein is subject to the Federal Fair gish to put out the sheet music,” said New England Conservatory. as Artist-in-Residence in the Deer Housing Act, which makes it illegal to Kennedy. “These editions represent advertise “any preference, limitation, VACATION “I was actually a [Music] Park, WA Public Schools. or discrimination because of race, col- RENTALS the absolute heart and soul of who I Composition major, and when I “Not every student wants to com- or, religion, sex, handicap, familial sta- am and what I believe. I really want wasn’t doing my theory homework I pose, but many do. My job when I tus, or national origin, or intention to to get these books into the hands of make any such preference, limitation, WARM WEATHER IS Year Round often signed up to play at the campus teach Composition is to ‘allow’ the or discrimination.” We will not knowing- In Aruba. The water is safe, and the those who dare to play the piano.” coffeehouse to try out some brand- music, not discourage it. I dwell in ly accept any advertising for real es- dining is fantastic. Walk out to the The “Best of Solo Piano, 2007- new piano music,” he said. possibility,” Kennedy said. tate which is in violation of the law. All beach. 3-Bedroom weeks available. 2018” is available four ways, as coil Sleeps 8. Email: [email protected] Kennedy recently garnered his Kennedy’s “Best of Solo Piano, persons are hereby informed that all bound books on cream paper, as a dwellings advertised are available on for more information. first international award. Announced 2007-2018 songbooks” are available an equal opportunity basis. downloadable version; both either in Montréal by the Enlightened for direct purchase from the com- as album versions, or adapted easy Piano Radio, the prestigious 2019 poser’s website (www.dankennedy. HILLSIDE VILLAGE piano versions. There is also a com- Album of the Year award went to us), as well as on the internet at Sheet APARTMENTS FOR RENT panion CD out containing matching the composer-pianist’s fourth studio Music Plus, Amazon. APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR ONE, TWO information – if you did not initi- “The duty of the Hampshire AND THREE BEDROOM PHONE SCAM • from page 13 APARTMENTS All real estate advertising in this ate the call, do not provide bank Sheriff’s Office is to protect public newspaper is subject to the Federal display any number or organization account, credit card or Social safety,” Sheriff Cahillane added. “We •Heat and hot water included Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes Security numbers over the phone want everyone to stay safe, and to •Ample Closets it illegal to advertise any preference, name on your screen. limitation or discrimination based on • Never give out any financial unless you have thoroughly done remember that my office will never •Fully Applianced race, color, religion, sex, handicap, •Community Room familial status (number of children and your research and verified the caller. make these kinds of phone calls.” •Laundry Facilities or pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, •Cats Welcome age, marital status, or any intention to •Extra Storage make any such preference, limitation or •24 Hour Maintenance discrimination. BUDGET • from page 1 For Information call This newspaper will not knowingly accept (413)967-7755 EHO any advertising for real estate that is in NOTICE lot of work for basically nothing, which is kind of frus- violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising in ERRORS: Each advertiser is requested to check their advertisement trating.” 17 Convent Hill, this newspaper are available on an equal Moving to the current budget, the 2021 fiscal year, the opportunity basis. To complain about the first time it appears. This paper will not be responsible for state recently approved its budget. Panto reflected on the Ware, MA discrimination call The Department of Housing and Urban Development “ HUD” more than one corrected insertion, nor will be liable for any status in Belchertown, which was mostly positive. toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. For the N.E. error in an advertisement to a greater extent than the cost of the “We scaled back what we estimated in revenue from area, call HUD at 617-565-5308. The toll free number for the hearing impaired is space occupied by the item in the advertisement. the cherry sheet,” Panto said. “The numbers we used ver- 1-800-927-9275. sus the final numbers, we’re not in deficit we are $21,000 to the good. We are not in as horrible shape as it looked on the surface. We are in good shape.” However, there were a couple of items that are costly, one of which was the overtime for the Belchertown Fire ❚ PUBLIC NOTICES Department which is in “horrible shape,” according to Panto. PUBLIC NOTICE OF the Secretary of Energy & https :1/g lobal. gotomeet- Schreiber, Auctioneer, as Agent “With COVID-related overtime being covered by ENVIRONMENTAL Environmental Affairs, 100 ing .com/install/571586205 for Snow’s Self Storage, LLC. CARES Act funding, we’re still in really rough shape,” REVIEW Cambridge St., Suite 900, The application is avail- Snow’s Self-Storage Panto said. “We will need money for that, and we will PROJECT: Boston, Massachusetts 02114, able for inspection on the reserves the following rights: need a good amount for that. We’ve used about 75% of Proposed Solar Array Attention: MEPA Office, ref- Belchertown.org- Planning to bid at the public auction, the overtime budget in that line item. We’ve had some LOCATION: erencing the above project. Board website. to refuse any and all bids, or heating repairs that may come back to haunt is in the 0 Gulf Road, Belchertown By James Natle to cancel the auction at any form of an $11,000 expense at the police station.” PROPONENT: BWC Scarboro Brook, Chairman, Planning Board time for any reason. She said there is $40,000 left, according to November BWC Scarboro Brook, LLC LLC 12/24, 12/31/2020 12/24, 12/31/2020 budget reports, meaning about $120,000 was used. The undersigned is sub- 12/31/2020 Town Administrator Gary Brougham told the two bod- mitting an Environmental Please check ies that the rate is expected to continue. Notification Form (“ENF”) NOTICE OF “It will continue to track the way that it has been, for a to the Secretary of Energy & Public Hearing PUBLIC AUCTION the accuracy of simple reason, increased call volume and we do not have Environmental Affairs on or SNOW’S SELF Special Permit your legal notice enough employees,” Brougham said. “Anytime we have before December 31, 2020 Legal Notice STORAGE LLC, will sell at prior to submis- This will initiate review Public Auction at 746 Bay one employee out, for whatever reason, it’s an overtime Belchertown sion (i.e., date, shift.” of the above project pur- Planning Board Road, Belchertown, MA, all suant to the Massachusetts the personal property stored in time, spelling). Moving to the next fiscal year, Finance Committee In accordance with the Chair Ron Aponte proposed a level service budget from Environmental Policy Act Massachusetts General Laws, its facility by: Also, be sure departments. (“MEPA”, M.G.L. c. 30, s.s. Chapter 40A, Section 11, the SP34: Evan Stangl the requested “What we could do is start meeting with department 61-62I). Copies of the ENF Planning Board will hold a SP4: Changrui Xin publication date may be obtained from: SP29: Changrui Xin heads in the end of January, beginning of February time- public hearing to discuss a Site coincides with Andrea Kendall, Plan Approval application for At 10:00 a.m., January frame, which also coincides with the governor’s original LEC Environmental a non-profit residential edu- 16, 2021, at the premises of the purpose of the budget comes out,” he said, adding that Gov. Charlie Consultants, Inc. cation center, submitted by SNOW’S SELF STORAGE notice, or as the Baker’s proposal is used by the town as a benchmark. 380 Lowell Street, The Cutchins Program for LLC, 746 Bay Road, law demands. “Before we talk to the department heads, I think we Suite 101, Children and Families, 52 Old Belchertown, MA, by Warren Thank you. should have that revenue meeting where we decide what Wakefield, MA 01880 Bay Road, Map 229, Lots 17 the revenue figure we’re comfortable with.” 781-245-2500 and 16.1, Belchertown, MA, Members of the committee and the board agreed with Copies of the ENF Owner- The Wayne A. Lebrun Aponte. are also being sent to the Living Trust. Finance Committee member Laurie Shea asked if Conservation Commission A public hearing will be the department heads would also include their top three and Planning Board of held as follows: Public Notices priorities with the level service funding and Selectboard Belchertown where they Place: Remotely by member Ed Boscher added that items to cut should be may be inspected. Planning Board, Belchertown ARE NOW ONLINE included. The Secretary of Energy Date: January 26, 2021 Panto said she believed the groups should wait until & Environmental Affairs will Time: 7:05 pm publish notice of the ENF in Email all notices to [email protected] there is a better idea of the budget before asking the Please join my meeting departments to do so. the Environmental Monitor, from your computer, tablet 1 will receive public comments Access archives and digital tear sheets by “It’s not worth the upheaval it would cause,” she said. or smartphone. “It’s more than just the numbers on paper we’re talking on the project for 20 days, https ://global. gotomeeti newspaper title. about.” and will then decide, within ng. com/join/571586205 2 ten days, if an Environmental You can also dial in using Find a quick link to the state of Massachusetts’ Selectboard Chair Gail Gramarossa said she could live Impact Report is needed. your phone. public notice web site to search all notices in with that process in a sequence rather than all at once. “We have asked folks to come with top priorities, if A site visit and consultation United States: +1 (646) 3 Massachusetts newspapers. session on the project may 749-3122 there were additional resources,” Gramarossa said. “As also be scheduled. All per- Access Code: 571-586- Public notice deadlines are Mondays at noon, we begin those hard conversations and we know what sons wishing to comment on the revenue is, what the level service budget looks like, I 205 Fridays noon for Monday holidays. the project, or to be notified New to GoToMeeting? could live with it in a sequential way. It is helpful to have of a site visit or consulta- Get the app now and be ready an idea of where modifications could be made if neces- tion session, should write to when your first meeting starts: visit www.publicnotices.turley.com sary.” PAGE 16 THE SENTINEL • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2020

Gingerbread House WINNERS

Winning the Belchertown category of the gingerbread house competition was Alene Motta with a Quabbin-themed gingerbread visitor’s center.

Cheryl Dowling Jacob O’Connor won the most BELCHERTOWN – In its sec- In the kid’s category, for Her piece included the Quabbin was winner of the traditional cate- kid’s category in the gory in Belcher- ond annual Winter Light Night children 12 and under, Jacob Visitor’s Center, a fisherman and Belchertown Cultural town Cultural gingerbread house competition, O’Connor won first place. Cheryl other elements. Council gingerbread Council’s gin- the Belchertown Cultural Council Dowling won first place for the Each of the entries into the con- house competition. gerbread house went virtual. most traditional gingerbread test were posted to the cultural competition. The group recently announced house. council’s website, with multiple the winners of the competition, Alene Motta won first place for photos, and in some cases, videos which were voted on by members the Belchertown category with a of the entries. of the community. Quabbin themed ginger-creation.

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