Officials Disappointed Vaccine Clinics on Hold Indefinitely by HOPE E

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VOL. 86 NO. 151 $1.00 SATURDAY,TUESDAY, FEBRUARY JUNE 27, 2017 20, 2021 VOL.75 cents 90 NO. 43 Officials disappointed vaccine clinics on hold indefinitely By HOPE E. TREMBLAY he sent a letter to cities and need to travel to get their vac- Editor towns across the Commonwealth cines.” WESTFIELD/SOUTHWICK this week notifying them that Humason and Westfield – Despite all the hard work of the state would not provide vac- Health Director Joseph Rouse Westfield Health Director cine doses to municipalities for released a video on the topic Joseph Rouse, Council on Aging locally run clinics effective Thursday. Rouse said while he Director Tina Gorman and March 1. is also disappointed, he appreci- Mayor Donald F. Humason Jr, “Apparently, they are focus- ates the effort to get vaccines in Westfield will not have a vac- ing on mass vaccine distribution local pharmacies so residents cine clinic anytime soon. sites and pharmacies,” stated a don’t have to go to the closest Neither will Southwick, disappointed Humason, who mass vaccination site at the where Health Director Tammy spoke with Lt. Gov. Karyn Eastfield Mall in Springfield. Spencer and Council on Aging Polito to express his concerns. “If CVS and Walgreens are a Director Cindy Sullivan have Humason posted on Facebook place where people can go so been working with the Select that “she said the state can’t give they don’t have to cross the Board and community to host a us a vaccine clinic but she river, I’m fine with that,” said clinic there. pledged to work on getting vac- Rouse, “but right now it’s not Gov. Charles D. Baker cine doses to the pharmacies in Mayor Donald F. Humason Jr. and Health Director Joseph Rouse address vaccine squashed local clinic plans when Westfield so our residents won’t See Vacine Clinics, Page 5 clinics in a Feb. 18, 2021 video. (SCREENSHOT) ‘Snow Angel Plunge’ is a pivot from annual Penguin Plunge By LORI SZEPELAK Amelia Park Children’s Museum The rules are simple, notes computer savvy as others, Radigan Correspondent (APCM). Radigan. said another option is to send a pho- WESTFIELD — Everyone Radigan said the pivot to the 2021 “Get dolled-up in your funkiest tograph or video to fun@ameliapark- remembers the joy of creating our Snow Angel Plunge was inspired by costume (not totally necessary, but museum.org and the museum staff own snow angels and now organizers the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge a few definitely encouraged),” said will be able to share them on social of the annual Amelia Park Children’s years ago. The challenge went viral Radigan, adding, “Head outside and media. Museum Penguin Plunge are hoping during the summer of 2014, raising take a quick video of yourself mak- For 16 years, the Penguin Plunge that children — and those young at funds for research and development ing a snow angel, and post it on had drawn an average of 50 partici- heart – will want to shift gears a little for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclero- Instagram and/or Facebook with the pants annually and Radigan is hoping because of the COVID-19 pandemic. sis). hashtag #snowangelplunge.” with this new twist in the 17th year “Rather than holding a socially “We looked for something in the Radigan is also encouraging par- because of the COVID-19 pandemic, distant Penguin Plunge, we decided spirit of the Penguin Plunge that ticipants to challenge friends and more area residents will participate in to go virtual this year,” said Ray would be easy for people to do on family to join in the fun. Radigan, executive director of the their own,” said Radigan. For persons who might not be as See Plunge, Page 3

COVID-19 UPDATE Flaherty asks to study impact Southwick of early teacher retirement bill By AMY PORTER Staff Writer reports nine WESTFIELD – The last item on the City Council’s Feb. 18 agenda was a motion by At-large new cases Councilor Dave Flaherty to inves- tigate the impact of the recently proposed Teacher Early Retirement School district Incentive program on the city’s budget. The bill, SD.1111 was to have in-person presented by Sen. John C. Velis learning next week Guy McLain was named director of the Westfield Athenaeum on (Second Hampden and Hampshire) Feb. 8. (WESTFIELD ATHENAEUM PHOTO) on Feb. 11. By PETER CURRIER Flaherty said one of the goals of Staff Writer the bill is to allow older teachers SOUTHWICK — The Southwick New Athenaeum director to to retire early, by allowing teach- Board of Health reported nine new ers to add five years to their age confirmed COVID-19 cases in explore collaborative projects and five years to their years of DAVE FLAHERTY Southwick this week to bring the pan- service. He said it could poten- who indicated to him that health demic total to 460. By LORI SZEPELAK McLain said he is welcome to tially increase the cost of health- care options would have to be This marks the lowest weekly num- Correspondent any and all input from local orga- care and severance for five years, negotiated with the teachers’ ber of cases in Southwick since before WESTFiELD — Guy McLain nizations and associations that and potentially increase their pen- unions. the holidays. is ready to take the Westfield wish to collaborate on future sions from 50 percent to 80 per- “If we want some wiggle room, On Thursday, Southwick-Tolland- Athenaeum’s long history to a endeavors. cent. we have to give the mayor wiggle Granville Regional School District new level as he embarks on a “I really want to work with a “Aren’t we jumping the gun room, too,” Flaherty said, adding Superintendent Jennifer C. Willard journey of exploring the varied variety of organizations involved here,” said At-large Councilor that he wanted to refer the motion sent an email to parents saying that opportunities with the local citi- in the arts, history, and business James R. Adams during the dis- to Long Range Finance, the com- in-person hybrid learning will contin- zenry that will enhance library to find ways we can collaborate cussion, adding that a lot of work mittee that he chairs, as well as to ue for at least the week of Feb. 22-26. services and programming and to have more of an impact,” said would be put in that might not the Personnel Action Committee. On Feb. 17, the percent positivity open up dialogue for creative McLain. “I encourage organiza- have to be done. At-large Councilor Richard K. rate for Hampden County was record- endeavors for patrons of all ages. tions to reach out and I invite Flaherty said the proposed law Sullivan Jr. said he would support ed at 4.86 percent, just under the five “The Westfield Athenaeum is a anyone to call me on how we can is for a local option that the school the motion, but he would ask that percent threshold. This means the very important community work together. Even if we can’t committee and the city council Long Range Finance and Personnel school district is no longer in the resource and I hope to see us do something immediately, we would have to accept, and could take into consideration that it is exclusionary period as identified in really ramp this up with even can look for opportunities and come before the council in April just a bill and hasn’t yet passed. the Memorandum of Agreement for more library services and pro- discuss ideas.” or May, or sooner. “There are several proposals out COVID-19 school district closure grams, as well as collaborate McLain, who resides in “Before we accept any special there. This is a long way from metrics. with other organizations in the Easthampton, first discovered his act, we need to know what the real done,” Sullivan said, adding that Because the STGRSD has recorded city to work together on proj- love for history when he was sent costs are. I don’t think there’s any he thinks it’s “wildly premature.” a low incidence rate of COVID-19, ects,” said McLain, who took the to Germany while serving in the harm in doing the research early,” He also asked to add the mayor reins as Athenaeum director on he said, adding that he spoke to See COVID-19 Update, Page 3 Feb. 8. See Athenaeum, Page 3 Velis and state Rep. Kelly Pease, See Early Retirement, Page 3 PAGE 2 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS UMass Amherst Dean's List Claudia Francis Cressotti Holy Cross announces Dean's List at Ithaca College Andrew Curran AMHERST – Below is a list of local stu- Allison Julia Davis Dean's List ITHACA, NY - Ithaca College student dents who were named to the dean’s list at the Shoshana Maniscalco from Westfield was Nicholas James Duncan WORCESTER - A total of 1,453 students University of Massachusetts Amherst for the Jakob Dupuis named to the Dean's List for the fall 2020 fall 2020 semester. In order to qualify, an were named to College of the Holy Cross' semester. Gabriel Feingold Dean's List for outstanding academic achieve- undergraduate student must receive a 3.5 Samantha Loren Feingold grade-point average or better on a four-point ment during the fall semester of the 2020-21 Mikayla Lynn Feliciano academic year. The following local students scale. Allison Piper Hauff Worcester Polytechnic SOUTHWICK made the list: Angela Helen Hinck Matthew Corrigan of Granville, a member Institute announces Hannah L Ammirato Leah Grace Howard Taylor McKenna Calabro of the Class of 2021, majoring in Political Dean's List Melanie Jeanne Hubbard Science; Julia Stone Fox Camryn Grace Hughes WORCESTER – The criteria for the WPI Joseph Impoco Katherine Kalill of Westfield, a member of Miyuki Johnson the Class of 2021, majoring in Political Dean's List differs from most other universi- Grace K Ingledue Hannah Elizabeth Jury ties as WPI does not compute a grade point Alexandra Victoria Klinkowski Science; Samantha Lynne Kaubris Gabriel Piepergerdes of Westfield, a mem- average (GPA). Instead, WPI defines the Andrew Joseph Lachtara Matthew Joseph Kiefer Dean's List by the amount of work completed Matthew John Lecrenski ber of the Class of 2021, majoring in Aaron James Kielbasa Economics; at the A level in courses and projects. James Nicholas Longhi McKenzie Grace Kiltonic Benjamin Gelinas of Westfield, class of 24, Cheryl L McCarthy Bryan Roy of Southwick, a member of the Zachary Paul Kochanski Class of 2022, majoring in Biology; majoring in Interactive Media & Game Caroline Rose Methe Angelina Kurdun Development Technology (BS); Sean Patrick Moriarty Joseph Coon of Montgomery, a member of Claire Elizabeth Lamarche the Class of 2022, majoring in Mathematics; Emily Giancola of Southwick, class of 23, Jalyn Maureen Sedor Alexandria Rose Lambert majoring in Mechanical Engineering; Nicholas Edward Spagnolo Carly Liquori of Southwick, a member of Evelyna A Legkodukh the Class of 2023, majoring in Undeclared. Abby Hoschouer of Granville, class of 24, Sarah Jessica Spagnolo Denise Jasmine Long majoring in Electrical & Computer Cole David Viamari Gavin Alexander Millikan Engineering; Sena Yacteen Brendan John Morrissey University of Alabama Noah Kantor of Westfield, class of 23, WESTFIELD Autumn Rose Nichols-Moccia majoring in Chemical Engineering; Paige Olivia Arsenault Meghan Elizabeth O'Brien Dean’s List Adrian Orszulak of Westfield, class of 22, Amanda Marie Beswick Kelsey Kathleen Oleksak TUSCALOOSA, AL - Maya Daley of majoring in Biology and Biotechnology; Matthew Robert Bonsall Cristina Theresa Roselli Southwick and Megan Hawks of Westfield Delia Smith of Westfield, class of 22, Miranda Rose Boudreau Deirdre Agnes Smith among students enrolled during the fall 2020 majoring in Mechanical Engineering; Elizaveta Briksa Padraig M Smith term at The University of Alabama who made Julia Visconti of Westfield, class of 22, Joseph Garrett Burzynski Dillon Magrath Sullivan the Dean's List with academic records of 3.5 majoring in Chemical Engineering; McKenzie Elizabeth Chaban Shannon Rowan Sullivan or above. Jolie Walts of Westfield, class of 23, major- Donald Chang Scott Michael Walsh ing in Robotics Engineering. Megan Julianana Clemons Jillian Aurora Watson Liam Francis Coffey Jacob Adam Collins Police Logs

Major crime and incident report reported operating at high rates of speed on the pond moving to minors in a vehicle, the woman said the minor was left alone Sunday, Feb. 14, 2021 Middle Pond, a responding officer reports no subjects on either briefly and the heat was on; WESTFIELD pond. 3:33 p.m.: accident, Feeding Hills Road and College Highway, 4:38 a.m.: noise complaint, East Bartlett Street, a caller Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021 a two vehicle accident with property damage was reported. reports that his neighbors are continuing to be loud after police WESTFIELD had already visited them multiple times that night, the respond- 11:04 p.m.: threat to commit crime, Elm Street, a caller from ing officer reports that Curtis Price, 24, of 21 East Bartlett St., an Elm Street business reports that a male party pointed a gun Westfield was placed under arrest for disorderly conduct and into the building at a female party, the responding officer reports disturbing the peace; that the male suspect was located and fled on foot before being Westfield Police Dept. reminds 1:20 p.m.: larceny, East Main Street, a caller from an East detained, the officer reports that Joshua J. Marcoulier, 44 of 87 Main Street cell phone store reports that someone left the store Bayberry Ln., Westfield was arrested for two counts of assault you to Lock It or Lose It! without paying for two phones, the responding officer filed an with a dangerous weapon, disorderly conduct, possession of a incident report; firearm without a firearm identification card, two counts of lar- WESTFIELD — Criminals often target cars that have per- 6:00 p.m.: animal complaint, Union Street, a caller reports ceny of a firearm, resisting arrest, and threatening to commit a sonal items left in plain view or vehicles left unlocked. There that a dog has been inside a parked vehicle from at least 40 min- crime. are a few easy steps that will help you from becoming a victim utes, the responding officer reports that the dog appears to be 11:54 p.m.: college related disturbance, Miller Street, a caller of a vehicle burglary: comfortable in the car but he cannot locate the owner in the reports that there is a party happening on Miller Street where • ALWAYS lock your car door; this includes when it is nearby apartments, the officer reports that he made contact with COVID-19 protocols are not being followed, the responding parked in your driveway or in front of your home. one of the dog’s owners and she would come retrieve the dog if officer reports that there were approximately 20 people at the • NEVER leave items of value, such as your purse, wallet, the dog’s other owner did not respond to her call. party with no face coverings, the officer reports that everybody briefcase, laptop or cellphone in plain view. Secure your but the renters vacated the building and peace was restored. valuables inside the trunk before arriving at your destination SOUTHWICK or bring them with you. 10:10 a.m.: officer wanted, Pine Knoll Road, a resident SOUTHWICK • NEVER leave your keys and/or key fob inside the car. reports his ebay account was compromised in October 2020; he Thieves can just press the start button and drive away. received a 1099 for something for which he did not receive pay- 10:41 a.m.: officer wanted, College Highway, a caller reports If you see anything suspicious, MAKE A CALL, MAKE A ment; a child left alone in a vehicle while the mother was shopping, the DIFFERENCE at 413-562-5411 or DIAL 911 in case of an 6:52 p.m.: concerned citizen, North Pond, two snowmobiles responding officer reports cautioning the female about leaving emergency.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY Sat., Feb. 20, 2021 is the 51st day of the year. 314 days remain until the end of the year

ritory convenes for the first time. rized to be a substitute umpire in the injuring over 200 others. race car driver (d. 1996) ON THIS DAY 1909 – Publication of the Futurist Southwestern International League. 2005 – Spain becomes the first 1959 – David Corn, American Manifesto in the French journal Le 1956 – The United States Merchant country to vote in a referendum on journalist and author 1339 – The Milanese army and the Figaro. Marine Academy becomes a perma- ratification of the proposed Constitu- 1959 – Bill Gullickson, American St. George's (San Giorgio) Merce- 1913 – King O'Malley drives in the nent Service Academy. tion of the European Union, passing baseball player naries of Lodrisio Visconti clash in first survey peg to mark commence- 1959 – The Avro Arrow program to it by a substantial margin, but on a 1960 – Joel Hodgson, American the Battle of Parabiago; Visconti is ment of work on the construction of design and manufacture supersonic low turnout. comedian, actor, and screenwriter defeated. Canberra. jet fighters in Canada is cancelled by 2009 – Two Tamil Tigers aircraft 1961 – Steve Lundquist, American 1472 – Orkney and Shetland are 1920 – An earthquake kills between the Diefenbaker government amid packed with C4 explosives en route swimmer pawned by Norway to Scotland in 114 and 130 in Georgia and heavily much political debate. to the national airforce headquarters 1962 – Dwayne McDuffie, lieu of a dowry for Margaret of Den- damages the town of Gori. 1962 – Mercury program: While are shot down by the Sri Lankan mark. American author, screenwriter, and 1931 – The U.S. Congress approves aboard Friendship 7, John Glenn military before reaching their target, producer, co-founded Milestone 1547 – Edward VI of England is the construction of the San Francis- becomes the first American to orbit in a kamikaze style attack. Media (d. 2011) crowned King of England at West- co–Oakland Bay Bridge by the state the earth, making three orbits in four 2010 – In Madeira Island, Portugal, minster Abbey. of California. hours, 55 minutes. heavy rain causes floods and mud- 1963 – Charles Barkley, American basketball player and sportscaster 1685 – René-Robert Cavelier es- 1931 – An anarchist uprising in En- 1965 – Ranger 8 crashes into the slides, resulting in at least 43 deaths, tablishes Fort St. Louis at Matago- carnación briefly transforms the city Moon after a successful mission of in the worst disaster in the history of 1964 – Willie Garson, American rda Bay thus forming the basis for into a revolutionary commune. photographing possible landing sites the archipelago. actor and director France's claim to Texas. 1933 – The U.S. Congress approves for the Apollo program astronauts. 2014 – Dozens of Euromaidan 1964 – Jeff Maggert, American 1792 – The Postal Service Act, es- the Blaine Act to repeal federal Pro- 1971 – The United States Emergen- anti-government protesters died in golfer tablishing the United States Post Of- hibition in the United States, sending cy Broadcast System is accidentally Ukraine's capital Kyiv, many report- 1964 – French Stewart, American fice Department, is signed by United the Twenty-first Amendment to the activated in an erroneous national edly killed by snipers. actor States President George Washing- United States Constitution to state alert. 2015 – Two trains collide in the Swiss 1966 – Cindy Crawford, American ton. ratifying conventions for approval.[6] 1979 – An earthquake cracks open town of Rafz resulting in as many as model and businesswoman 1798 – Louis-Alexandre Berthier re- 1933 – Adolf Hitler secretly meets the Sinila volcanic crater on the Di- 49 people injured and Swiss Federal 1967 – Kurt Cobain, American moves Pope Pius VI from power. with German industrialists to arrange eng Plateau, releasing poisonous Railways cancelling some services. singer-songwriter and guitarist (d. 1813 – Manuel Belgrano defeats the for financing of the Nazi Party's up- H2S gas and killing 149 villagers in 2016 – Six people are killed and two 1994) royalist army of Pío de Tristán during coming election campaign. the Indonesian province of Central injured in multiple shooting incidents 1967 – David Herman, American the Battle of Salta. 1935 – Caroline Mikkelsen becomes Java. in Kalamazoo County, Michigan. comedian and actor 1816 – Rossini's opera The Barber the first woman to set foot in Antarc- 1986 – The Soviet Union launches 1967 – Andrew Shue, American of Seville premieres at the Teatro Ar- tica. its Mir spacecraft. Remaining in orbit TODAY'S actor and activist, founded Do gentina in Rome. 1942 – Lieutenant Edward O'Hare for 15 years, it is occupied for ten of Something 1835 – The 1835 Concepción earth- becomes America's first World War those years. BIRTHDAYS 1967 – Lili Taylor, American quake destroys Concepción, Chile. II flying ace. 1988 – The Nagorno-Karabakh Au- actress – Polish insurgents lead an up- 1846 1943 – American movie studio ex- tonomous Oblast votes to secede 1967 – Tom Waddle, American rising in Kraków to incite a fight for ecutives agree to allow the Office of from Azerbaijan and join Armenia, 1950 – Walter Becker, American football player and sportscaster national independence. War Information to censor movies. triggering the First Nagorno-Kara- singer-songwriter, guitarist, and 1971 – Calpernia Addams, 1864 – American Civil War: Battle of 1943 – The Saturday Evening Post bakh War. producer (d. 2017) Olustee: The largest battle fought in American actress, author, and activ- publishes the first of Norman Rock- 1991 – In the Albanian capital Ti- – Edward Albert, American Florida during the war. 1951 ist well's Four Freedoms in support of rana, a gigantic statue of Albania's actor (d. 2006) 1865 – End of the Uruguayan War, United States President Franklin long-time leader, Enver Hoxha, is 1975 – Brian Littrell, American 1951 – Randy California, with a peace agreement between Roosevelt's 1941 State of the Union brought down by mobs of angry pro- singer-songwriter and actor American singer-songwriter and President Tomás Villalba and rebel address theme of Four Freedoms. testers. 1977 – Stephon Marbury, guitarist (d. 1997) leader Venancio Flores, setting the 1944 – World War II: The "Big Week" 1998 – American figure skater Tara American basketball player scene for the destructive War of the began with American bomber raids Lipinski, at the age of 15, becomes 1953 – Poison Ivy, American 1978 – Lauren Ambrose, Triple Alliance. on German aircraft manufacturing the youngest Olympic figure skat- singer-songwriter, guitarist, and American actress and producer 1872 – The Metropolitan Museum of centers. ing gold-medalist at the 1998 Winter producer 1981 – Fred Jackson, American Art opens in New York City. 1944 – World War II: The United Olympics in Nagano, Japan. 1954 – Jon Brant, American bass football player 1877 – Tchaikovsky's ballet Swan States takes Eniwetok Island. 2003 – During a Great White con- player 1982 – Jason Hirsh, American Lake receives its premiere at the 1952 – Emmett Ashford becomes cert in West Warwick, Rhode Island, 1954 – Patty Hearst, American baseball player Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. the first African-American umpire in a pyrotechnics display sets the Sta- actress and author 1983 – Jose Morales, Puerto 1901 – The legislature of Hawaii Ter- organized baseball by being autho- tion nightclub ablaze, killing 100 and 1959 – Scott Brayton, American Rican-American baseball player THE WESTFIELD NEWS WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 - PAGE 3 Athenaeum Continued from Page 1 U.S. Army. homebound and it may be difficult “I think my love for history really for them to get out.” hit me when I was in the military and McLain will also be meeting with as part of the U.S. Army Band,” he the board of directors regularly as said, adding, “One of the first con- well as special committees in the certs we played was in a small town coming months. in Germany celebrating their 800th “The board is very energetic, a anniversary in 1977. The band was great group of people with a lot of set up next to an old castle tower that knowledge,” he said. “We are an was built around 1200. That was the important community resource and experience that did it for me.” will be looking for ways to reopen McLain said while he spent six the building. There are a lot of issues L-R:Joan McGrath (Executive Director, PLAN of MA & RI), Gregg Gallant years in the Army and three of those that will require working with the (Special Olympics Athlete), Mary Beth McMahon (President & CEO, years in Germany, traveling around health department and other city Special Olympics Massachusetts). Europe was an “incredible education agencies to get the building back in itself.” open. We want to be able to get back “As good as my University of open as quickly as possible in a safe Special Olympics Massachusetts Massachusetts undergraduate educa- way.” tion was, the experience in Europe Guy McLain, seen in his office, is McLain said he is ready “to hit the announces new exclusive Special was more educational,” he said. the new director of the Westfield ground running” on numerous proj- Over the years, McLain has served Athenaeum. (WESTFIELD ects that also range from ongoing Needs Trust Partner as director of the Lyman and Merrie ATHENAEUM PHOTO) building modifications to integrating Wood Museum of Springfield the history museum with library ser- MARLBOROUGH – Special Olympics Massachusetts and Planned History, the director of the former vices and programming. Lifetime Assistance Network (PLAN of MA & RI) announce a first of its Connecticut Valley Historical archives, art gallery and “nice size” “We have some ambitious projects kind Exclusive Partnership. Special Olympics athletes and their families will Museum, and in 2005, designed the library. coming up to improve the building flagship exhibits to launch the Wood “My past career has gone back and and enhance the services we offer,” get access to PLAN of MA & RI educational webinars and resources to help forth with libraries and museums,” with future financial planning. In addition, PLAN f MA & RI will provide Museum. He later merged the two he said. “We are also looking for- museums and expanded holdings to he said, adding, “The Athenaeum has ward to art exhibitions again and training to Special Olympics staff members to better speak with families different resources and I was so about the importance of sound personal financial management. form a premier museum and research doing a lot more with the art gallery facility. attracted to its great collection.” space.” PLAN of MA & RI will support Special Olympics Massachusetts through As director of the Wood Museum McLain said one of his priorities McLain said his experience work- a $100,000 sponsorship of sports and training events. They will also support for more than a decade, he oversaw once the community reaches a new ing with artists and on art exhibitions inspiring digital storytelling, featuring Special Olympics athletes and their the library and archives of more than normal after the COVID-19 pan- will be an area he is especially excit- families. 2 million documents. demic will be to enhance the pres- ed to explore and expand for the The organizations highlighted their shared mission of advocacy and sup- McLain’s library experience also ence of the art gallery and museum, Athenaeum. port through resources that help individuals with intellectual disabilities live includes work as librarian for the as well as programming. “We have a very active arts com- better and more complete lives. Both PLAN of MA & RI and Special Springfield City Library’s Rare Book “The public library is a very munity locally and regionally and I Olympics have been serving a shared community for generations – PLAN of and Special Collections, where he important part of what we do and would like to see an active arts pro- MA & RI is celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2021 and Special Olympics oversaw the preservation and mainte- hopefully after the pandemic we will gram here once we can safely was founded in 1968. nance of more than 15,000 rare books be able to utilize the other areas reopen,” he said. The partnership will support Special Olympics athletes in all counties of dating from c.1475 to the 20th cen- more,” he said. In McLain’s free time he enjoys Massachusetts. In 2021, the funding will support a renewed focus on com- tury, as well as 50,000 books and In the past week, McLain has met writing and public speaking and pub- munity-based programming, allowing the athletes, their families, and their sound recordings for the art and with individual departments to dis- lished a novel this past fall titled neighbors experience inclusion through the power of sports. music collection. cuss the impact of COVID-19 and “Drawing Without an Eraser.” “We are always looking for new partners that will not only support the Additionally, he directed the brainstorm ways to offer more high- McLain said the novel explores the mission of Special Olympics and will also be seen as a true resource to our design of the library and archives for quality services. obstacles artists – and especially the Houston Holocaust Museum in “A big surprise I have seen is that women – must overcome in a male community,” remarked Special Olympics President & CEO, Mary Beth public libraries are taken for granted McMahon, who continued, “We have found a perfect fit with PLAN of MA 1996. As the Curator of Collections, dominated art world to be recognized the Research Center, and the that people can come in and use it,” by museums and art experts around & RI, our brand new Exclusive Special Needs Trust partner. I am sure our he said, adding, “once you lose athletes and their families will view this new partnership and the financial Archives, he managed the installa- the world. tion of audio-visual equipment and something you counted on you real- “This novel explores the obstacles and other information as a true asset.” computers, implemented a collec- ize how important it was.” through the story of a woman who “PLAN of MA & RI has enjoyed a positive relationship with Special tions development policy, established McLain credited staff members for grew up in rural Texas during the Olympics Massachusetts through its Polar Plunge event in recent years. As procedures for care, preservation, developing library services that Great Depression,” he said. we became more familiar with their mission in action, we are confident this and rotation of artifacts, set up a vol- hadn’t been explored in the past – “Although suffering the trauma of is a very worthwhile investment in the future programming provided by unteer program, a bookstore, and including Library To Go and virtual poverty, childhood abuse, and mar- Special Olympics Massachusetts,” said Joan McGrath, Executive Director of established an oral history program. programs using the Zoom and web- riage to an unfaithful and domineer- PLAN of MA & RI. “We look forward to a successful partnership in which “Mr. McLain’s aspirations closely site platforms. ing husband, she dedicates her life to our respective missions will grow and thrive for the benefit of the people we align with ours as he is dedicated to a “We have a great Library To Go becoming an artist. But that road serve.” mission of helping institutions pros- program and people really like this proves far from easy.” About Planned Lifetime Assistance Network of Massachusetts and Rhode per, grow and serve the public more service that we didn’t have before,” As McLain now looks to the Island (PLAN of MA & RI): efficiently,” said Susan Drummey, said McLain. “In January alone, Athenaeum’s future – he said the PLAN of MA & RI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with origins dat- president of the Athenaeum’s board 1,000 people used Library To Go. library is perfectly positioned in the ing back to the 1960s, when a group of parents of children with various of directors. “This appointment One of the things we will continue years ahead for growth as new col- physical, mental and behavioral challenges assembled to plan for the future. ensures robust leadership continuity after we officially reopen the library laborations are integrated into the Incorporated in 1971, we are recognized today as experts in operating on the strategic plan, physical build- will be the Library To Go program.” more than 150-year-old institution. Special Needs Pooled Trusts and have 750 beneficiaries and $60M in assets ing improvements, community ser- McLain noted that the Zoom and “I think of public libraries as the vices, programs and staff develop- Facebook programs are also always people’s university,” he said. “Every under management. well attended. PLAN of MA & RI proudly serves people with disabilities – lifelong or ment.” community has a library and anyone McLain said what drew him to the “I think this service has been very can walk in the door and learn about related to illness, injury, or age – helping to preserve assets, to protect access valuable,” he said, adding, “So many to public benefits, and to live well. PLAN of MA & RI is a professional director position was the Westfield new things that will enhance their Athenaeum’s reputation and “incred- people are isolated right now and at lives.” trustee providing quality trustee/fiduciary services to individuals and their ible collection.” least there are interactive ways peo- As McLain notes he has dedicated families through sound and thoughtful trust administration and compassion- “The Westfield Athenaeum is a ple can participate. I think this type his life to that philosophy and looks ate, caring social service support. Licensed social workers assess the benefi- great institution,” said McLain, add- of programming will also continue forward to maximizing the strengths ciary’s living situation, needs and current benefits and make recommenda- ing what sets the Athenaeum apart is after we reopen the library since it is of the Athenaeum to the betterment tions and referrals to services that improve the person’s quality of life. its history component, artifacts, a service for people who are also of the community in the future.

Plunge Early Retirement Continued from Page 1 Continued from Page 1 into the motion, to which $1.075M. would be about $60,000 for lation was just filed this week. the fun event. Flaherty agreed. “Under the proposed plan, it that $75,000 salary. That The proposal has not been “The event is run by the leadership and board of directors at Personnel Action Committee looks like they can add both 5 doesn’t seem to me like it enacted yet and there is no the museum with the generous support of businesses and indi- Chair Cindy C. Harris said that years of age and service, so that would cover over $500,000+ in guarantee that it will be. Our viduals throughout the community,” said Radigan. she would be a no vote on the 54 year-old would now get the additional payout,” Flaherty human resources department is Sponsors include Westfield Gas & Electric, Whip City motion, which she said would benefits of a 59 year-old with said. currently generating prelimi- Fiber, Heka Health & Relaxation, ProAmpac, John Carlo require speculation and is also 35 years of service. That’s an Westfield Superintendent nary projections on how the Woodworking, Westfield Feed, Advance Mfg. Co., Inc., Air a highly charged political issue. 80% pension under the Stefan Czaporowski said the early retirement legislation Compressor Engineering Co., Inc., Betts Plumbing and At-large Councilor Kristen Retirement Plus plan. Using issue is on the agenda for the could affect our school system Heating Supply, Inc., WEPCO, Aero Fastener, Flowers by Mello said if it’s still in bill the same $75,000 salary and school committee meeting so that we are prepared. And Webster, and Dillon Bodley & Associates, PC. form, then “it’s good to let the $73,777 three year average, Feb. 22. He said the human we will be presenting this pro- The deadline to make a donation of $10 or more is March 7 smart kids do the math,” which their new pension could be resources director and the posal to the school committee and to be entered to win $200 in “cold hard cash,” notes she said could help people give $59,022. If they lived until 80 Westfield Education for the first time at our next Radigan, adding videos can be shared and donations will still input into the bill. years-old, the pension payout Association president would be meeting on Monday, Feb. 22 be welcome after March 7. The motion passed by major- (excluding future cost of living presenting the proposal to the since this legislation requires “Two winners will be chosen at random for the $200 cash ity. increases) would be about school committee, who must school committee approval After the meeting, Flaherty $1.593M. approve the proposal before it prior to the endorsement of the giveaway and the winner of the Individual Best Costume said retiring teachers are sup- “Five years of contributions goes to the city council. city council,” Czaporowski Award will also receive $100 in cold hard cash,” he said. posed to agree to pre-pay or to retirement and earnings “The reality is that this legis- said. Radigan said all proceeds raised from the fundraiser benefit reimburse the retirement sys- the interactive, hands-on fun and learning museum. tem for the financial impact. “Instead of hosting an annual gala where people put on their “The legislators believe this Sunday best, eat hors d’oeuvres and listen to speeches, we means it will not affect the FINANCIAL encourage people to harness their inner child – that part of health of the retirement system. SERVICES, INC. them that still wants to play in the snow or to wear a silly Some of the teachers interpret DRENEN costume,” said Radigan. “By making a donation, you help this as they’d just have to pay ensure that children will be able to continue learning through A WEALTH MANAGEMENT FIRM five years of normal retirement 89 South Maple Street, Westfield MA 01085 play at Amelia Park Children’s Museum. And, in turn, we give contributions plus some earn- you an excuse to play in the snow while wearing a tutu. ings. There’s a huge difference 413-569-0015 413-642-3127 Everybody wins!” in perceptions,” Flaherty said. For complete details and forms, visit ameliaparkmuseum. Flaherty said the org or call (413) 572-4014. Massachusetts Teachers Retirement System is not How Does the CARES ACT impact exactly healthy, and requires COVID-19 Update 8.94% additional state funding every year on a compounded your return for 2020? Continued from Page 1 basis. “Like other state pen- sions, this will place huge bur- Find out now new positive cases detected within the school system will not necessarily close down schools for in-person learning. The drop dens on the state budget going in the rate of infection mirrors a similar pattern playing out forward,” he said. Call to schedule your tax appointment! across the country, and it comes as more Massachusetts residents Flaherty gave the following example: “A 54 year-old teach- are now eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. Open Monday Thru Friday On Feb. 18, Massachusetts residents aged 65 and older, as er with 30 years of service would currently qualify for a Nights and Weekends Available well as those aged 16 and older with two or more serious comor- by Appointment. bidities, became eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. 54% pension under the Gov. Charlie D. Baker’s office also announced this week that Retirement Plus plan. If their Call for Your Appointment Today current salary was $75,000 and the state would only send vaccine doses to individual munici- 413-569-0015 or 413-642-3127 Walter (Sonny) Drenen, EA Paula Piette, EA Freda Brown, CDFA, EA Stan (Stosh) Stefan- palities that have been disproportionately affected by COVID- their three year average was 19. Southwick was not identified as one of these municipalities, $73,777, their current pension We provide Fast, Professional, and thus the Board of Health will not receive any doses to dis- benefit could be $39,839 per tribute themselves at this time. year. If they lived until 80 Confidential Service at Competitive Prices Pharmacies and mass vaccinations sites will still be able to years-old, the pension payout provide doses to any Massachusetts residents who are eligible (excluding future cost of living For more information visit or website: www.drenenfs.com and have an appointment. increases) would be about PAGE 4 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS COMMENT COVID Committee wants to hear directly from Gov. Baker By MATT MURPHY State House News Service BOSTON - There's no shortage of questions about how the Baker administration has approached its effort to vaccinate more than 4 million people. Legislators have critiqued every- thing from the governor's decision to allow healthy young people to get vaccinated alongside at-risk seniors to the delay in having a call center set up for people unable to book appointments online. And after Thursday, both Democrats and Republicans want answers as to why the state's appointment website crashed, despite the predictable surge in traffic as people aged 65 and older were allowed to try to sign up for the first time. Next week a legislative committee is seeking to get answers to those questions straight from the top, inviting Gov. Charlie Baker to testify before the panel at the first oversight hearing of the new Committee on COVID-19 and Emergency Preparedness, according to the Senate chair. Sen. Jo Comerford, who is co-chairing the committee with Rep. William Driscoll, told the News Service in an interview Thursday that she doesn't know if Baker will accept the invita- tion to testify next Thursday. "I hope he does," Comerford said. "We'd like to hear from him." The committee has also invited Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders, Public Health Commissioner Monica Bharel, Assistant Public Health Commissioner Jana Baker promises vaccination site improvements Ferguson and Assistant Public Health Commissioner and Director of the Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory By COLIN A. YOUNG As of Thursday, about 2.1 million of the state's roughly 6.9 Sciences Kevin Cranston. State House News Service million residents are eligible to be vaccinated against the coro- In addition, three other committees -- Health Care Financing, BOSTON - Following the Thursday morning failure of the navirus that has infected more than half-a-million people here Public Health, and Racial Equity, Civil Rights and Inclusion state's vaccine appointment website as 1 million more people and killed more than 15,600. Baker and other officials cau- -- have been asked to assemble expert panels to present to the became eligible to get themselves protected against the deadly tioned that it could take up to a month for everyone who oversight committee. coronavirus, Gov. Charlie Baker took to the airwaves to pledge became eligible Thursday to book an appointment as demand "What has caused such a turbulent vaccine rollout? The that the issue would be fixed. exceeds the supply of vaccine doses from the federal govern- answer has been elusive, too elusive frankly," Comerford said. "My hair's on fire about the whole thing. I can't even begin ment. "If the Legislature felt we were getting the answers that our to tell you how pissed off I am," Baker said on GBH's "Boston As of Wednesday, 893,312 people in Massachusetts had constituents were demanding and we were demanding and if Public Radio" when asked about the website debacle just after received a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 316,302 of we were seeing a righting of the ship, perhaps we wouldn't noon. He later added, "This is not satisfactory ... it's awful. It's those people had also received a second dose, making them have needed to form this committee," she continued. going to get fixed and I'm going to work very hard to make fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the A spokeswoman for Baker wouldn't say whether Baker sure it doesn't happen again." Department of Public Health. Massachusetts had administered Heavy traffic torpedoed the state's vaccination scheduling about 79.2 percent of the 1,158,050 vaccine doses that have planned to testify, pointing back to comments made by the website as more than 70,000 appointments were to be made been shipped here, DPH said, and administration officials said governor during a Wednesday press conference when he was available at 8 a.m. to the seniors and people with multiple roughly half of the previous group to become eligible, people asked about the oversight hearing. health complications who newly qualified for a vaccine 75 or older, had already scheduled vaccination appointments. "We talk all the time to the Legislature. I talked to the Thursday morning. The state said it had not added those Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders, speaker and the Senate president over the weekend. Marylou appointments to the system by the time it failed. who leads the COVID-19 Command Center, held a call with does calls at least once a week with both the House and the People visiting the vaxfinder.mass.gov website after 8 a.m. lawmakers Thursday afternoon organized by Sen. Jo Comerford Senate. We provide them with a lot of information and mate- Thursday were met with the message that "this application and Rep. Denise Garlick, during which legislators were able to rial, and obviously, we'll look forward to talking to them about crashed." Visitors were advised to try again later. The website air their concerns with the administration. this," Baker said then. was back up at about 10 a.m., though some people reported Sudders holds similar calls twice a month for members of Sudders was also working the phones on Thursday talking to persistent troubles with it. the Legislature to ask questions of the administration's COVID- lawmakers who have been hearing the vaccine rollout com- "People are working really hard to get it fixed and we know 19 response and vaccine plan, but this week's call came at a plaints from frustrated constituents. how important it is for people to have it fixed and to be able to "shockingly timely" moment, Comerford said. "I am currently on a call w Secretary Sudders and the rest of access all those new appointments," Baker said on GBH. "It's "What's clear to me and has always been clear is that the legislature trying to find answers as to what's happening gonna get fixed as fast as it needs to get fixed and, like I said, Secretary Sudders is deeply committed and has gone a super- with the website. It's unacceptable," Rep. Smitty Pignatelli of people did a lot of work preparing for this but clearly they human distance to meet this pandemic," Comerford said. "I Lenox tweeted on Thursday. didn't do enough. And I know how important it is to people to heard a great deal of acknowledgment of this on the call about Baker has defended certain decisions that he says led to a get their shots." the secretary's tireless work, but that was followed by many slower vaccine rollout than in some other states, including the Around 11:30 a.m., the state's COVID-19 Command Center concerns that we have heard repeatedly, like abrupt decision prioritization of residents and staff at long-term nursing and apologized for the website issues and said that some people making, a lack of an understood plan and then of course we congregate care facilities, but he has also admitted to being had been able to book vaccination appointments Thursday were faced with the website delays and the crash and 2-1-1 morning through secondary websites. Baker said that was delays." "late" with things like the call center. Even after the call center about 20,000 appointments and that 50,000 more appoint- Comerford said legislators were told that the vaccine was set up, it took multiple days and pressure from lawmakers ments, mostly at Fenway Park in Boston and Gillette Stadium appointment website was back up and functional as of early before evening and weekend hours were added. in Foxborough, would be added once the site was functioning afternoon, but she said she had not tested it personally. "My hair's on fire about the whole thing. I can't even begin normally again. "We were told this was really a matter of the system being to tell you how pissed off I am," Baker said Thursday on the "All appointments for mass vax sites in Springfield, Danvers, overloaded and while that's understandable, it also could have radio about Thursday's crash of the appointment website. Natick and Dartmouth have been booked for the next week. been expected and perhaps prevented," Comerford said. The new Committee on COVID-19 and Emergency More appointments for these sites will be made available next Comerford, who next week will help lead an oversight hear- Preparedness was established this month by Speaker Ron week," a spokesperson for the state's COVID-19 Command ing of the administration's vaccine rollout as co-chair of the Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka, signaling a desire Center said. "Additional appointments at other locations will new COVID-19 and Emergency Preparedness Committee, on the part of top Democrats to play a more active role in the be posted throughout the day today." said she was glad to hear that the governor had brought up the state's pandemic response, which has largely been run by When Baker announced Wednesday that people 65 years old possibility of pre-registration for future phases, but said, "It's Baker using a steady wave of executive orders. or older, the residents and staff of low-income housing for going to necessitate a real considered, hopefully transparent Comerford, of Northampton, comes from a background in seniors, and people with two or more health conditions that put plan for where these future sign-ups will be held." social work, while Driscoll's area of expertise is disaster them at higher risk for hospitalization or death would be able Mariano, the top House Democrat, was among those who response and emergency preparedness. The senator described to start booking vaccination appointments at 8 a.m. Thursday, tried to book a vaccination appointment Thursday morning. her and Driscoll's backgrounds as "a good marriage" for the it represented roughly a doubling of the number of people "As one of the 1 million residents that became eligible to committee. eligible for the limited number of vaccine doses. book my COVID-19 vaccines appointments today, I was dis- While the decision to focus right away on the state's vaccina- "I think the website will be in good shape for this," Baker appointed to experience difficulties with the VaxFinder web- tion effort was an easy one, according to the two chairs, said Wednesday when asked if the state's website would be site. We all have the responsibility to get our shots as soon as Driscoll said he does envision the new committee branching ready to handle the added traffic Thursday morning. we can," he said. "I look forward to a productive oversight The governor said Thursday on GBH that his administration hearing next week, where we'll address problems that delay the out at some point beyond the pandemic. had done a lot of "scenario planning" to prepare for the pre- fair and accessible distribution of vaccines." The Milton Democrat noted that it's been a decade since dictable influx of traffic to the website but "obviously the multiple tornadoes touched down in western Massachusetts, scenario work that was done didn't adequately prepare the site cutting a 40-mile-long swath of damage through Springfield, for what happened when eight o'clock rolled around this morn- Maryland company takes blame destroying business and homes. ing." "That gives us an opportunity to see what do we think we Thursday's website snafu was the latest stumble in the Baker for vaccination site failure learned 10 years ago after that event and have we applied what administration's COVID-19 vaccine rollout. House Speaker we learned," Driscoll said. Ronald Mariano said the rollout "has been marked by both By COLIN A. YOUNG Driscoll said he's also spoken with Rep. Dan Hunt, a logistical and communications shortcomings" and Senate State House News Service Dorchester Democrat and the chair of the new Committee on President Karen Spilka called it a "constantly changing and BOSTON - After the frustration and chaos of the Thursday Federal Stimulus and Census Oversight, about ways they could confusing" plan. morning failure of the state vaccine appointment website, the work together. Complaints from residents in the earliest phases of the plan Baker administration said 60,000 appointments were booked But for now, the immediate concern is the pandemic and the prompted changes to the state's appointment website, which after all and passed along a statement in which a vendor whose was initially just a map of vaccination sites. The administra- technology has caused problems elsewhere took the blame. See Masschusetts, Page 5 tion established a call center to help people access appoint- In an unsigned statement, PrepMod, a Maryland-based online ments, but only after seniors 75 or older became eligible and clinic management and appointment scheduling system, said it reported difficulties using the website. Last week, Baker took "full responsibility" for the website problems and vowed announced a system in which anyone who brings a senior 75 that it would not happen again. The cause of the problem, the or older to a mass vaccination site can get vaccinated them- company said, was "a sudden and unprecedented surge in traf- selves, regardless of their age or risk factors. That created what fic to the site." The Westfield News is effectively a black market for senior citizen companions in "Unfortunately, the system did not scale fast enough to A publication of The Reminders Publishing, LLC Massachusetts. accommodate the increased volume," the company said. The governor said Thursday that more changes are coming The Baker administration said PropMod addressed the issues and the state was pressure testing it to check the vendor's work. Mike Dobbs Barbara Perry to the state's vaccine distribution plan. Co-host Jim Braude Managing Editor Sales Manager asked Baker why Massachusetts hasn't established a central- PropMod, which said it is "the state's biggest online appoint- ized system where people could pre-register for vaccine doses ment vendor," has been blamed for problems with vaccine dis- Hope E. Tremblay that would be distributed based on the phases of the state's tribution and appointment scheduling in other states over the Editor James Johnson-Corwin Multi-Media Manager existing plans. States like Florida, New Jersey and West last month and a half. Virginia have reported success with similar systems and Sen. In California, the software was blamed for sometimes limit- Chris Putz Marie Brazee ing access to vaccine doses and causing hiccups in scheduling Sports Editor Diana DiZoglio recently filed a bill that would mandate the Business Manager creation of such a centralized system here. appointments at community vaccination sites, the LA Times "We are looking at that and we'll probably have more to say reported last month. Pennsylvania public health officials called Fran Smith Lorie Perry about it over the course of the next few weeks," Baker said of the software "cumbersome" earlier this month after dealing General Manager Director of Ad Production the kind of system he has so far resisted in Massachusetts. "I with things like double-booked appointments and ineligible won't get into the nitty-gritty of the details, but it's different to people getting vaccinated, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. Baker's COVID-19 Command Center said all appointments 181 Root Road, Westfield , MA 01085 do this...we have way more sites, a lot more people, it's a little more complicated to set this up in Massachusetts the way you next week at the Fenway Park, Gillette Stadium, Danvers, would set it up in a smaller state. But I do think it's a topic of Natick, Dartmouth and Springfield vaccination sites were (413)562-4181 conversation and discussion among our team and we'll have booked, but that "a small number of appointments for other www.thewestfieldnews.com more to say about it shortly, before we get into some of the locations will be posted over the next several days" at pharma- really big population groups." cies and regional collaborative sites. THE WESTFIELD NEWS WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 - PAGE 5 Velis addresses vaccines, named to committees Obituaries Hello Everyone, that for this upcoming help them in the upcoming I hope you’re all doing well. Legislative session, I will be session. Contact roxanne@thewestfieldnewsgroup • 413-562-4181 / Ext. 118 I know many of you reached the Vice Chair of the Joint Thursday morning, I met Obituaries online at: westfieldnews.com/categories/obituaries out to my office this week Committee on Children, with the Western Mass regarding COVID-19 vaccina- Families, and Persons with Legislative delegation to dis- tions, especially on Thursday Disabilities as well as the cuss how Baystate’s pending Jane E. Lucas when the appointment website Vice-Chair of the Joint consolidation of psychiatric WESTFIELD — Jane E. Lucas, went down. This is completely Committee on Mental Health, beds in the region and Holyoke 75, (1945 – 2021) died peacefully unacceptable, and the system Substance Abuse, and Medical Center’s acquisition on Wednesday, February 17th, 2021 absolutely has to be improved. Recovery. As a veteran, I’m of Providence Behavior Health at Linda Manor in Leeds after a long When individuals 65+ and especially proud to announce Hospital will affect the area. battle with dementia. She was born those with 2+ comorbidities my Chairmanship of the Joint As always, we will work with in Westfield, MA on November 6th, became eligible to book Committee on Veterans and our partners in both the 1945 to the late Frank and Bertha appointments this week, over Federal Affairs. All of these Legislature and in the private (Blauvelt) Lucas. Jane will be a million new people became are policy areas that I’m pas- sector to insure the best possi- remembered for her great sense of eligible. The state received sionate about and I’m very ble outcome for the patients of humor and her adventurous world- just over 110,000 doses from much looking forward to a Western Mass. traveling spirit. She was a long-time employee at the post the federal government this productive Legislative ses- Recently, I also started send- office in Waterbury, CT. After her retirement she moved to past week, and we simply do sion. ing out both quarterly newslet- sunny Florida and enjoyed walking around her neighbor- not have the vaccines at this JOHN VELIS As a part of the bill filing ters and weekly email updates hood, making new friends and reading books in solitude. time for everyone to get an site itself. We expect answers process, my staff and I have regarding the COVID-19 vac- She was predeceased by her brother, Robert “Bob” Lucas appointment immediately. from those responsible for this been taking meetings with cination rollout. To sign up for of Blandford, MA. She is survived by her nieces Sheila That being said, it should not failure and a better system many constituents and experts my COVID-19 updates, head Brosnan of Leeds, MA and Jessica Kirchen of Pasadena, be this difficult to access the must be delivered for our resi- regarding issues facing the to senatorjohnvelis.com/cov- MD. She also leaves her great niece and nephews and sev- site, book an appointment, and dents. Commonwealth. Among those id-19-updates/ To sign up for eral loving cousins. get clear information. This Friday marked the offi- meetings I took this week, one my quarterly newsletter, head A Graveside Service will be held for Jane on Tuesday, Although Governor Baker is cial end of “bill filing” season. that stands out is the meeting I to senatorjohnvelis.com/quar- February 23rd at 12 noon at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Section unilaterally overseeing the After weeks of requests, had with Maryanne Frangules, terly-newsletter/ 5, Southampton Road, Westfield. The Barry J. Farrell vaccine rollout and vaccina- research, and revisions, my the founder of the As always, if there is any- Funeral Home in Holyoke is handling arrangements. tion locations, I will continue staff and I are excited to Massachusetts Organization of thing I can do to assist you, to communicate these issues announce all the bills that Addiction Recovery (MOAR). please never hesitate to reach and advocate for improve- we’ve filed in the Senate so We discussed how COVID-19 out to my office. I can be ments. Next week, the far. I will still have the ability has exacerbated difficulties for reached at my email: john. Massachusetts Legislature will be holding a those suffering from addiction [email protected] or by Continued from Page 4 to file bills through the entire public, livestreamed oversight two-year session, but submit- and how the Legislature and phone: (413) 572-3920 and vaccination effort. Massachusetts through Wednesday had hearing on Thursday to hear ting by this deadline ensures especially my new position as you can find me online at sen- administered 1,267,262 doses of COVID-19 vaccine, includ- directly from Administration that they will be heard by a Vice-Chairmanship of the atorjohnvelis.com. ing 937,273 first doses, according to DPH. officials on the rollout of the committee promptly. Mental Health, Substance Sincerely, Over the past week, the administration has highlighted vaccine process and the web- I’m also excited to announce Abuse, and Recovery can best John Velis strides the state has made, with about 285,000 doses given last week. Baker has said the state also stacks up well against other states with more than 5 million people, and CDC data puts Massachusetts ninth in the country for first doses administered. But questions remain about the state's technology, the pri- WESTFIELD PUBLIC HEALTH WEEKLY BULLETIN oritization plan for vaccines, lines of communication to local By JUANITA CARNES FNP, announced as of March 1, 2021, local boards of health, and the equity -- both racial and geographic Board of Health chair Boards of Health/Health Departments -- of vaccine distribution. and JOE ROUSE, will NOT be provided with doses of "There is a false dichotomy being set up that either we need health director COVID-19 vaccines until further notice. to move quickly or we need to center equity. We can and Sunday, February 14th, a tribute in This means that Westfield will not be should do both," Comerford said. "I do believe the initial vac- remembrance of our community mem- able to conduct a city run vaccination cine plan had that care at the center and somehow the call for bers who lost their lives to COVID was clinic at this time. However, that does not speed has caused Baker to pivot in ways that have forsaken held on the Park Square Green. 96 can- mean vaccination sites won’t be available equity. These are false pivots." dles shined representing each life lost. A to residents. We are advocating for Comerford specifically mentioned the "companion" policy small gesture in comparison to the grief Westfield pharmacy locations to be added that allowed young, healthy residents to get vaccinated if they felt by their families and friends. As to the list of sites ASAP. Also please con- accompanied someone 75 or older to get a shot, website foi- many know, grieving during the pan- tinue to regularly check for availability in bles, and the "abrupt" decision and short notice given to local demic is a lonely process. Please safely our area at site listed above. For updated vaccine clinics that supplies would be redistributed to mass reach out to those experiencing any loss information, go to our website: http:// vaccination sites. with a kind word, text, email, card, letter, www.cityofwestfield.org/covid19. Take "There is a reality when it comes to a shortage at the federal phone call or socially distanced visit. care of yourself and someone else if you level. That is something we should be talking about clearly, but As of February 17th, 56,281,827 doses can. it's hard to get out that message when there so much state- of the 72,423,125 doses of the delivered Dedicated health department members focused turbulence," she said. COVID-19 vaccines delivered in the US JUANITA CARNES, who have been working tirelessly Driscoll said he was particularly frustrated by the rollout of have been administered. Big numbers but Chair, Westfield throughout the pandemic are: Debra the 2-1-1 call center. they don’t reassure the many who are in Board of Health Mulvenna RN, Assistant Director Evelyn Bristol RN, Steve Cipriani, Health "For me, we all understand that patience is really paramount. the qualifying Phases waiting to receive monary disease), heart conditions, immu- the vaccine. Vaccine administration nocompromised, obesity, pregnancy, Inspector Thomas Hibert, Health The vaccine will still take months to reach many of us. But Inspector Cheryl McMordie, Office when we have to pivot over and over again, with very little issues continue to be in constant flux. sickle cell disease, smoking, type 2 dia- Please read Peter Curriers recent article Manager Crystal Dugay, Kathi Cotugno, notice of what's going on to the public and organizations and betes. To sign up for vaccine, go to in Friday’s paper for local updates. COVID-19 Vaccine Finder at www.mass. CORE coordinator agencies involved, it begs a lot of questions. The planning for Beginning February 18, 2021, individ- Other Board Members: Margaret future phases is my concern," Driscoll said. gov/COVIDvaccine or https://vaxfinder. uals 65 and over and those with 2+ cer- mass.gov. Doody, Stan Strzempko MD "We need the next few months to go a lot smoother," Driscoll tain medical conditions are now eligible Our health department has been work- WE KEEP WORKING TO KEEP said. for vaccination. Good news, but it may ing hard to create a streamlined plan and YOU SAFE Wear your mask. Wash your take more than a month to get that vac- place for administration of vaccines as hands. Keep your distance. Avoid gather- cine. Phase 2 eligible conditions are as soon as we receive them. Unfortunately ings. Stay home. Save lives. follows: asthma, cancer, chronic kidney the state has changed their plan of distri- ——— First Congregational Church Annual disease, COPD (chronic obstructive pul- bution again. Yesterday the State Look for us in next Saturday’s edition. Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner WESTFIELD - The First Congregational Church of Westfield is hosting its annual Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner Vaccine Clinics March 13. This year our dinner will be take out only. Tickets Continued from Page 1 must be purchased in advance Please call the church office at 568-2833. The Church is located at 18 Broad Street (On the being equitably distributed in Hampden County.” Southwick resi- Green) in Westfield. The cost is $12.50. The meal will consist Humason said that Baker is focusing on pharmacies and dent Isabelle, of Corned Beef, Cabbage, Boiled Potatoes, Carrots, our mass vaccination sites right now, but as with all things 106, received her famous Colcannon, roll and dessert. This event is always a sell COVID-19, that could change. COVID-19 vac- out so call early for your pickup time.4:30, 5, or 5:30 p.m.. “This could change daily,” he said. cine at the Sullivan was also disappointed at the news. Eastfield Mall “I think it is unfortunate that the state has taken away the with assistance ability of local senior centers and boards of health to admin- from Police ister the vaccine to its most vulnerable population,” said Chief Kevin A. Alzheimer’s Association Sullivan. “We were working hand in hand with the board of Bishop and his health and we were ready to run a clinic.” wife Carol. Virtual Support Group Sullivan said it’s another challenge for seniors. (SOUTHWICK WESTFIELD — Armbrook Village will host a virtual “Seniors have had a hard enough time navigating through COA PHOTO) Alzheimer’s support group Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. Caregivers and this pandemic and now our top officials have decided that family members are invited to share their personal experi- driving almost 45 minutes is acceptable,” Sullivan said. “It’s ences and strategies for communicating with their loved not acceptable, but as we have been doing, we will pivot ones. Groups are held on the last Wednesday of every month. once again. We are asking people to schedule appointments To be added to the Zoom invite list, contact Executive and call the Senior Center if they need transportation. If they Director Beth Cardillo at [email protected]. Group is offered by Armbrook Village Senior Living and Memory Support Community, 551 North Road, Westfield.

are having issues with 211 we are happy to help. WESTFIELD PURPLE HEART TRAIL “Patience is important during this time and although the decisions are frustrating, we will get through this.” Gorman remains hopeful that a clinic can be hosted in the city soon. “I am very hopeful that in the near future the Commonwealth will support municipal vaccine clinics,” said Gorman. “I am particularly concerned that the 75+ cohort is being left behind. Those with hearing, visual, mobility or cognitive limitations need access to the vaccine in a small supportive environment among workers whom they trust.” Gorman said the city has a fairly large population of older adults. “We have 800 people living in Westfield who are over the age of 85. Some have no family in the area and their support system consists of friends their own age,” she said. “They simply cannot navigate a mega vaccine site, with or without assistance. We began receiving calls yesterday from older adults who are going to skip their second vaccine dose because the entire vaccine pro- VETERANS HELPING VETERANS cess has been too daunting for them.” P. O. Box 367 Gorman said the Westfield Council On Aging staff is joining Westfield, Massachusetts Carol Bishop assists fellow Southwick resident Isabelle, with COAs from across the state in an effort to convince those 01086 106, at a mass vaccination site where she received her making these crucial decisions to support local vaccine clinics, COVID-19 vaccine. (SOUTHWICK COA PHOTO) especially for those who are over the age of 75 or homebound. PAGE 6 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS SPORTS

Brady Collins (11) rises above the defense for the Saints during a high school St. Mary’s Colin Reed (4) tries to penetrate the PVCICS defense. Nick Montenero (31) looks on, at left. basketball game Thursday against PVCICS at Westfield Intermediate School. (MARC ST.ONGE/ THE WESTFIELD NEWS) (MARC ST.ONGE/ THE WESTFIELD NEWS) Brady’s four 3-pointers fuel Saints’ rout By CHRIS PUTZ kets sandwiched around a two from Colin one as well from long range, all within nearly Westfield girls basketball head coach Dylan Sports Editor Reed (6). St. Mary’s led 10-2. a 60-second span to widen St. Mary’s lead, Willey said. “She willed us to a win with her WESTFIELD — Although St. Mary’s “We needed to get out right away and lay the 30-17. A lay-up from Collins capped off the physical presence in the paint. She rebounded; junior Brady Collins’s link to a certain NFL pace of the game in how it was going to go,” quarter’s scoring, resulting in a 20-point she scored. …It was a really gutsy perfor- Hall of Famer is only in his namesake, the Collins said of Baillargeon’s two 3-point shots. Saints advantage, 37-17. mance by her…and as a team.” Saints guard delivered a G.O.A.T.-like perfor- Still, PVCICS managed to pull within four, Collins opened up the fourth quarter scoring Emma Pedolzky was effective in her first mance Thursday night that elevated his team 10-6, late in the final minute of the quarter with yet another three, sinking PVCICS hopes game back from injury that sidelined her for a to some very lofty heights. with four free throws. Hunter Palm made of a comeback. short period of time, Saige Smith provided Collins scored a game-high 18 points, 3-of-3 from the line with 45.7 seconds remain- solid defense and delivered crisp passes, and including four 3-pointers to fuel the St. Mary’s ing in the quarter after being fouled attempt- GIRLS BASKETBALL freshman Alexus Sanchez came off the bench High School boys basketball team’s 53-24 win ing a three. to bank a key 3-pointer off the glass in the over Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Collins helped St. Mary’s take a 15-8 lead Pedolzky rallies Bombers fourth quarter. Charter School at Westfield Intermediate early in the second quarter with his first “That was big time,” coach Willey said of School. 3-pointer. Josh Baillargeon (9 points) banked with 26-point explosion Sanchez’s long range shot. “It was nice to see “Today we meshed well,” Collins said. “We in a short jump shot midway through the quar- Westfield 31, Amherst 26 her get in and make that basket.” knew we had to come out and get a win.” ter to give the Saints their biggest lead of the Westfield rallied from a 7-point, fourth With both teams initially struggling out of half, 17-8. quarter deficit with a sensational effort from BOYS ICE HOCKEY the gate, it was Collins who scored the only PVCICS closed the gap to three points late Chandler Pedolzky, who scored 26 of the made basket in the game’s opening 3-plus in the half, giving the visitors false hope. team’s 31 points. Pedolzky scored 14 in the Lancers stop Bombers minutes. He then deferred to Tom Baillargeon Collins took over in the third quarter, drain- fourth quarter alone. Longmeadow 3, Westfield 1 (10 points), who made a pair of 3-point bas- ing two straight 3-pointers and Reed buried “Chandler was unbelievable today,” C.J. Czarnecki made 41 saves for Westfield.

Nathan Campbell (44) goes a little higher to make the shot. The ball rolls off Tom Baillargeon’s fingers for another bas- Jon Baillergeon (22) avoids a block to make a shot. (MARC (MARC ST.ONGE/ THE WESTFIELD NEWS) ket. (MARC ST.ONGE/ THE WESTFIELD NEWS) ST.ONGE/ THE WESTFIELD NEWS)

2021 WINTER SPORTS SCHEDULE* WESTFIELD BOMBERS WTA TIGERS St. Mary’s boys basketball @ Southwick Regional School, 5 p.m. *Due to overwhelming concerns regarding the coronavirus, Westfield State Feb. 23 Feb. 26 University officials have prohibited spectators, fans, and members of the media Westfield Technical Academy girls basketball @ Hampden Charter School of St. Mary’s boys basketball @ Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Charter from attending swimming and diving meets for the 2021 season. Basketball and Science, 5 p.m. School, 5 p.m. hockey home games at WHS and Amelia Park Ice Arena are limited to two family Feb. 25 St. Mary’s girls basketball @ Southwick Regional School, 5 p.m. members per player. No visitors are allowed from away teams. Hampden Charter School of Science boys basketball @ Westfield Technical Academy HS, 5 p.m. SOUTHWICK RAMS Feb. 26 Feb. 22 Westfield Technical Academy girls basketball vs. Pioneer Valley Chinese Feb. 20 Westfield swimming & diving @ Minnechaug, Westfield State University, 4 p.m. Immersion Charter School, 5 p.m. Southwick boys ice hockey @ Ludlow, Olympia Ice Center, West Springfield, Feb. 24 ST. MARY’S SAINTS 12:30 p.m. Westfield girls basketball @ West Springfield HS, 7 p.m. Feb. 18 Feb. 22 Feb. 25 St. Mary’s boys basketball vs. Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion School, Southwick boys basketball @ St. Mary’s, Westfield Intermediate School, 5 p.m. Westfield skiing @ Berkshire East, Charlemont, 5 p.m. Westfield Intermediate School, 7 p.m. Feb. 23 Westfield boys basketball @ West Springfield, 7 p.m. Feb. 22 Southwick girls basketball @ St. Mary’s, Westfield Intermediate School, 5 p.m. Westfield boys ice hockey @ West Springfield, St. Mary’s boys basketball vs. Southwick Regional, Westfield Intermediate Feb. 25 Olympia Ice Center, 8:40 p.m. School, 5 p.m. Southwick boys basketball vs. St. Mary’s, 5 p.m. Feb. 23 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 St. Mary’s girls basketball vs. Southwick, Westfield Intermediate School, 5 p.m. Southwick girls basketball vs. St. Mary’s, 5 p.m. Westfield boys ice hockey @ Agawam, Feb. 25 Feb. 28 Olympia Ice Rink, West Springfield, St. Mary’s skiing @ Berkshire East, Charlemont, 5 p.m. Southwick boys ice hockey vs. Chicopee, Amelia Park Arena, 1:30 p.m. 2:50 p.m. THE WESTFIELD NEWS WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 - PAGE 7

SPEED BUMP Dave Coverly AGNES Tony Cochran RUBES Leigh Rubin

ARCHIE Fernando Ruiz and Craig Boldman

DADDY’S HOME Tony Rubino and Gary Markstein JACQUELINE BIGAR’S STARS YOUR Contract Bridge HOROSCOPE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Saturday, Feb. 20, 2021: Emotional, perceptive and sympathetic, you absorb life like a sponge and learn quickly. This year, you focus more on your mental strengths and you succeed admira- bly. There will be a huge change in your career path. If single, it won’t be for long. Soon there are joyful announcements to make. If attached, you are too devoted to DUSTIN By Steve Kelley and Jeff Parker your partner. Clarity is the theme of 2021. LEO can be bossy.

The Stars Show the Kind of Day You’ll Have: 5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult

ARIES (March 21-April 19)  Today promises a variety of important emails and phone calls. You will be juggling several projects and appointments simultaneously. Confirm plans with others to avoid confusion, and much is accomplished. Tonight: Your great capac- ity for problem-solving is in evidence. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) SCARY GARY Mark Buford  You will be able to make purchases you’ve longed for, and it will be possible to use money to generate true enjoyment. Just be cautious about over- extending yourself. Compare prices and remember to budget. Tonight: Your famous love for luxury is satiated. GEMINI (May 21-June 20)  You’ll be enthused and motivated. Today will conclude on a very upbeat note. Many worthwhile projects Crosswords will -- finally -- be in the works. Be versa- tile and creative in applying your talents; your earning ability will blossom. Tonight: A great sigh of relief. DOGS of C-KENNEL Mick and Mason Mastroianni CANCER (June 21-July 22)  Answers and inspiration come from within now. New appreciation of the peace and freedom of solitude develops today. Perform an anonymous act of kind- ness, and a deep sense of satisfaction comes. Tonight: You would benefit from a change of scene. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)  Today finds your physical vitality improving. Depression lifts and your faith helps you carry plans forward. Helpful guidance comes from friends. It’s a good time to seek an opinion or request advice. Tonight: A conversation can be very significant. Listen closely. B.C. Mastroianni and Hart VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)  Today is all about interaction with others. Remember the value of net- working and improving your people skills. Maintain a balance between your personal and your professional life. Being well- rounded will better prepare you to reach your goals. Tonight: Surround yourself with loving energies. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)  A flair for style and a yearn- ing for practical achievement motivate you today. A plan for growth develops. You feel penetrating yet cautious. Keep your faith strong, but act independently. Relationships between family members ONE BIG HAPPY Rick Detorie are mutually enjoyable. Tonight: Contact a foreign friend. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)  Others tend to be generous if you seek financial advice or assistance. Your sensitivity and thoughtfulness win the loyalty of another. A message from a loved one who has passed on may comfort you. Tonight: An early night of restful sleep. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)  Others have a different viewpoint regarding love. Communicate. You will prevail if you respect the per- spective of those you are intimate with. ANDY CAPP Mahoney, Goldsmith and Garnett There is much exploring and probing in progress. Tonight: A wonderful dinner date with a loved one. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)  Sunlight carries health-giving and antiseptic properties. Be aware of how the quality of light in your home is affecting you and adjust it until it’s ideal. You’ll be amazed at how proper lighting enhances your well-being. Tonight: Meditate by the light of a favorite lamp. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)  Develop your creative potential. Purchase an attractive journal and matching pen to record your ideas. They’re likely to be too good to let them fall by the wayside. Artistic endeavors of Cryptoquip all kinds will flourish today. Tonight: Be ZACK HILL John Deering and John Newcombe patient; success comes. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)  Special projects can lead to a new career emphasis. You’ll play host to visitors. Home improvements can be planned. Experiment with bold, bright colors. Children have much to teach you and can be a catalyst for change. Tonight: A new competitive quality develops.

BORN TODAY Photographer Ansel Adams (1902), actor Sidney Poitier (1927), director Mike Leigh (1943) PAGE 8 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2021 WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM THE WESTFIELD NEWS

LEGAL NOTICES FIREWOOD

(February 20, 2021) FIREWOOD 2 Years Seasoned Hardwood. Dear Annie CITY OF WESTFIELD, Cut/Split/Delivered. $150 per/cord. By ANNIE LANE MASSACHUSETTS Ready for immediate delivery. FIRST PUBLICATION OF Tree service available at wholesale prices. A BOND ORDER Standing timber purchased. CITY OF WESTFIELD 413-831-6254 More Letters on Love IN CITY COUNCIL FEBRUARY 18, 2021 ABONDORDERFORWATERMAINIM- AFFORDABLE FIREWOOD Dear Readers: Recently, I asked you to write in In 1973, John developed symptoms of heart problems PROVEMENTS RELATED TO PHASE 2 OF THEWESTERNAVEPROJECTBEIT Seasoned and green. Cut, with what you love most about your partners. I and had to undergo open-heart surgery. While he was ORDERED,BYTHECITYCOUNCILOFTHE CITYOFWESTFIELDASFOLLOWS: split, delivered. Any length. received enough responses to fill a book. I printed in the hospital, I found out I was pregnant with our Now ready for immediate some on Valentine's Day, but I'd like to print a few more second child, and we were both ecstatic. However, he That there be raised and appropriated the sum delivery. Senior, Veteran and -- because these letters brought me such joy that it seems didn't survive to see his new daughter, who was born of Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars bulk discounts apply! ($700,000) to pay costs of improvements to wrong to keep them to myself. Read on for a smile. in December 1973. It has been almost 48 years since water mains related to Phase 2 of the Western Dear Annie: What I love most about my husband is he passed, and I still love him. I had his two children Ave Project, including the payment of all other Call: 413-530-4820 that after more than 30 years he is still my best friend, and that was enough for me. In 2006, my son passed costs incidental and related thereto, and that to meet this appropriation, the City Treasurer, and he cherishes me. We started as friends, eventually away with pretty much the same problems as his dad. with the approval of the Mayor, be and hereby FREE GIVEAWAYS became lovers, and then were married. Our genuinely So, now it's just my daughter and me. We live togeth- is authorized to borrow said amount under and pursuant to G.L. c. 44. §7 and §8, or pursuant Free Guppies, males and females. 413-527- liking each other as people has kept us together er and get along splendidly. to any other enabling authority, and to issue 2659, leave msg. through the rough patches. However I look on the My husband was the love of my life. When I think bonds or notes of the City therefor. Any premi- outside, I know my husband loves me for the person I of him (which is often), I still feel the love and thrill um received upon the sale of any bonds or Free: 2 boxes full of 78 RPM records. Call notes approved by this order, less any such 413-533-8705 am on the inside -- and he would give his dying breath of being by his side for almost nine years. Even premium applied to the payment of the costs of to ensure I was safe and happy. My mother told me though I have missed him terribly over the years, I issuance of such bonds or notes, may be applied to the payment of costs approved by this GENERAL SERVICES that passion is important, and it may seem cliche, but wouldn't have changed one minute of the journey -- vote in accordance with G.L. c. 44, §20, you needed to like the person you are with or the rela- except to have him live to see his daughter and be by thereby reducing the amount authorized to be RICHIE’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS borrowed to pay such costs by a like amount. Contractor/Mechanical Services/ tionship was doomed to flame out. I guess Momma my side again. -- Alone but Not Unhappy Handyman did know a few things. -- D. Perry Dear Annie: I have had a miscarriage, a mastecto- That the appropriate officials of the City are au- Replacement windows, vinyl siding, roofing, Dear Annie: I can't properly describe what I love my, leukemia and chemotherapy, and at one point I thorized to file an application with The Com- gutters installed/cleaned, remodeling, painting, monwealth of Massachusetts' Municipal Fin- flooring/carpeting, masonry, carpentry, power- most about my wife in one letter, but I'll try. I love her came close to a mental breakdown. Through it all, my ance Oversight Board to qualify under Chapter washing & ceramic tiling. Residential/commer- 44A of the General Laws, the bond authorized cial. No job too small. Lic#148425/Insured with every fiber of my being and could go on for husband did not waiver. He held me while I cried over 413-746-2171/413-246-0927 hours with different stories about why I love her so the baby we would never have. He kissed the scar by this Order; and in connection therewith, to provide such information and execute such much and what she has done for me. We started dating where my breast was removed. He watched over me documents as the Municipal Finance Over- WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING in high school and got married about three years later. while I was going through chemotherapy -- and sight Board of The Commonwealth of Mas- by OLD SCHOOL sachusetts may require. Power washing, homes start at $99; $75 We still celebrate the anniversary of our Jan. 7 first helped care for my newly widowed mother at the Gutter Cleaning; 50% off Window Cleaning. Call Bob 413-896-6442. FULLYINSURED date. I send her a "love" email every morning telling same time. That, Annie, is a real husband and an In City Council, February 18, 2021 www.windowcleanup.com her how special she is and what she means to me. We amazing human being. -- One Lucky Wife Given First Reading, February 18, 2021 have three beautiful grown daughters whose careers "Ask Me Anything: A Year of Advice From Dear Passed to Second Reading, are in the service of others. Since my wife is a nurse, Annie" is out now! Annie Lane's debut book -- featur- February 18, 2021 HEALTH & MEDICAL Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One I know where they got it. -- MJN ing favorite columns on love, friendship, family and Brent B. Bean II President G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only Dear Annie: I met my husband, John, in September etiquette -- is available as a paperback and e-book. A true copy, Attest: 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587 1964. We married the day after Christmas in 1964. He Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more Karen M. Fanion, City Clerk Dental insurance - Physicians Mutual Insur- was in the Air Force, and we traveled near and far for information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to ance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real the nine years we were married. We had a son in 1966. [email protected]. insurance - not a discount plan. Get your free APARTMENTS FOR RENT dental info kit! 1-888-623-3036 www.dental50plus.com/58 #6258 Westfield - 2 bedroom apartment includes heat/hot water. Tenant to pay electric. Garage Viagra – Premium Generic Viagra(100mg) or stall. Non-smoker; no pets. References re- Cialis (20mg) 100 Tablets for $109 Asthma In- HINTS FROM HELOISE quired. Available 2/1. $1,200 p/month. halers as low as $13 per inhaler free shipping 1st/Last/$200-Cleaning Fee. Shown by ap- Satisfaction Guaranteed. (888)424-4908 or pointment only. Call: 413-568-5905 Visit: www. USAStayHealthy.com HELP WANTED APPLIANCE REPAIR CNA looking for private duty. Live in or Live out. Over 20 years experience. Excellent Ref- Pet food recall ALLEN ST. JEAN erences. Call 413-377-8539 or 860-816-6028 APPLIANCE Repairing all major Shared Living Program Dear Readers: Paying attention to pet food Filled pillowcases with popcorn were thrown over brands of appliances. recalls? It could be lifesaving. A recent recall was the fence in the gorilla yard, and the gorillas Devereux is looking for individuals or famil- Senior discounts available. ies in Westfield who may want to open their because of the presence of aflatoxins in dog food -- retrieved them and searched for the food inside in 413-562-5082 home to an adult with disabilities. The goal is toxins from mold that can cause extreme illness and order to replicate their foraging behavior in the wild. to place an individual in a home where they will develop life skills, experience opportunit- death, according to the Food and Drug Administration Some of the gorillas then put the pillowcase rem- ies in the community, and feel safe with the (www.FDA.gov). nants on their heads, as they would tree leaves, to ARTICLES FOR SALE support of the provider. We are committed to Snow blower, Cub Cadet 26", 3 stage, 4 ensuring clients are well matched with our These recalls are normally announced through the shade themselves from the sun. I witnessed the years old, Like new $550. Call 413-364-6611 providers prior to placement and provide ongoing agency support. Providers receive a media. If you have questions about the pet foods youngest female gorilla wearing her pillowcase stipend based on the needs of the individual. your pets eat, read the label, call the customer ser- around her waist as a makeshift dress! I always AUTO FOR SALE For more information call: vice number on the package and talk to your veteri- enjoy your column in The Washington Post. -- Maureen at 413-209-7677 narian. -- Heloise Theresa E., via email $ CASH PAID $ or Janet 508-713-3895 For any Toyota, Other Makes PET PAL A MOVING RECORD Running or Not, Crashed OK! Dear Readers: Meet Angie C.’s Run Away Ruby. Dear Heloise: When moving one’s household, Will take other Makes and Models Mature attendant for elderly woman in Two days after she adopted Ruby, in September of carry your valuables with you. Or be sure to get an Free Pickup Westfield, Tuesday/Thursday (flex), 10-1. 2020, Ruby escaped from the yard and traveled 2 itemized list of the valuables from the mover that Call 203-600-4431 ANYTIME References required 413-568-7046 miles before being picked up by the police. For this, indicates the boxes where the valuables were packed. CASHFORCARS! We buy all cars! Junk, Ruby landed on Santa’s naughty list! During our move six years ago, I neglected to do high-end, totaled-it doesn't matter! Get free Wanted: someone for snowblowing/light towing and same day cash! NEWER MODELS shoveling in South Hadley area. Also, Fortunately, she is home and well with Angie and these things, and when our boxes were delivered, my too! Call 844-813-0213 fall/spring cleanup. 413-533-9505 family. To see Run Away Ruby and our other Pet $5,000 worth of sterling silver flatware was nowhere Pals, visit www.Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the to be found. TIMOTHY'S AUTO SALES HOME IMPROVEMENT Week.” -- Heloise I spent months going back and forth with the Northeast Tile We might have exactly what Tile installer. Mosaic, Porcelain, Glass, Stone, CANINE COMMENTATOR insurance company, and at the end was told that they you want, if not, let us Showers, Backsplashes, Floors/Walls. Free Dear Heloise: The response about restraining had no proof the flatware existed, so they could not locate it for you! Estimates. Licensed/Insured. Specializing in vehicles Call-413-218-9758 dogs in cars was very good. Even though people reimburse me. It wasn’t just a financial loss, the 12 under $4,000. think they are doing their dog a favor by riding down place settings were gifts from our wedding in 1986. Bartlett Street, Westfield DALE'S STRUCTURAL the road with their head out the window, rocks can -- Cathy B., via email (413)568-2261 Termite damage, sagging floors, rotted beams, be thrown up from the front wheels, causing eye and Cathy, so sorry for the loss of the flatware. Taking basement columns, foundation repairs, homes, garages, barns. Small jobs welcome. tooth damage, plus a very expensive trip to the ani- pictures of your valuables can help also. -- Hugs, 413-667-3149 mal emergency facility. -- Another Canine Heloise CAREER TRAINING Commentator ON THE DIAGONAL TRAINONLINETODOMEDICALBILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional at CTI! Thinking about installing a new shower? GREAT GORILLAS Dear Heloise: I found a kitchen drawer insert that Get trained & certified to work in months! Call American Standard makes it easy. Free design 888-572-6790. 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