COMMUNITY The Wilbraham-Hampden PRSRT STD WPL U.S. POSTAGE offers PAID innovations PALMER, MA PERMIT NO. 22 Page 10

SPORTS ECR-WSS Hockey LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER scores huge win Page 11 Dedicated to Improving the Quality of Life in the Communities We Serve A TURLEY PUBLICATION ❙ www.turley.comTIMESFEBRUARY 11, 2021 www.wilbrahamhampdentimes.turley.com Gaming funds could address troubled Hampden intersection By Dalton Zbierski Fortunately, the dangerous [Mary] Thurlow at the state’s town officials were not notified struction timeframe. Staff Writer roadway could soon be modified, Gaming Commission for the of the money until December of “I think there’s going to be and Hampden may not have to proposed project, which would 2020. From the onset, the Board an infrastructure build,” Markel HAMPDEN – A total of 62 pay a cent. The town will spend be flashing signs on both sides, of Selectmen targeted the trou- said. “That’s going to open the automobile accidents have oc- a portion of the $100,000 that which are activated by the pedes- bled junction. spigots from Washington. What- curred at the three-way junc- it is owed by the Massachusetts trian, and one, or perhaps more, The remaining funding from ever we can get now, I think we tion between East Longmead- Gaming Commission, stemming of the digital radar speed mon- the mitigation money could be have assurance of early funding. ow Road, Wilbraham Road and from the creation of the MGM itoring devices on wheels that used on the design of a Trans- Rather than a five-year schedule, Allen Street over the past three Springfield Casino, for flashing we can move around town,” said portation Improvement Program it will be sooner. The result there years, reported Town Admin- signs, along with federal funding Markel on Feb. 8. project. Given the junction’s would be safety improvements istrator Bob Markel during the for a larger transportation im- While Hampden should have dangerous history, Markel said it at the intersection of East Long- Feb. 8 meeting of the Hampden provement project. received the gaming mitigation is a priority for federal funding, Board of Selectmen. “I have gotten approval from funds more than four years ago, which should shorten the con- Please see GAMING, page 5 Supports hope Buttigieg could boost East-West rail Coronavirus By Michael Harrison [email protected] vaccinations EAST LONGMEADOW — begin at One day, two college buddies caught up while wrangling lug- gage from a plane in Gary, Ind. municipal Chances are, neither thought the vicissitudes of life would lead one of them to a place on the clinic today world’s stage before his 40th WILBRAHAM/HAMPDEN birthday. – The municipal coronavirus The plane they unloaded car- vaccination clinic is up and run- ried the belongings of then-pres- ning today at the Wilbraham se- idential candidate and first-term nior center for those 75 and old- U.S. Senator Barack Obama and er, about a week and a half earlier his campaign staff. Eric Lesser, than originally anticipated. a campaign aide who went on “This morning was quite to serve in the White House as busy,” Wilbraham Public Health special assistant to David Axel- Nurse Jill Conselino said during rod, Obama’s chief advisor, had the Wilbraham Board of Select- let his good friend “Pete,” a na- Back in 2008, Harvard grads Pete Buttigieg and Eric Lesser pose for a photo outside then candidate men’s Feb. 8 meeting. tive of South Bend, Ind., know Barack Obama’s campaign plane. Courtesy photo Conselino said she spent he would be in the Hoosier state Monday morning at the senior Lesser, a state senator rep- cabinet as Secretary of Trans- have become friends regardless and maybe they could spend center, helping people register resenting the 1st Hampden and portation. of how they met. Both have an some time together. for vaccination appointments. Hampshire District – including For Lesser, who’s passionate enduring intellectual curiosity, Perhaps the two former Har- On Monday, she announced the Ludlow, Wilbraham, Hampden, about the proposed East-West are service-minded, and can talk vard students grabbed dinner clinic would be up and running East Longmeadow, Longmead- passenger rail line from Bos- policy like others talk sports. or a beer later. Friends for life on Feb. 11, rather than Feb. 22 as ow, Granby, Belchertown, and ton to Pittsfield with depots in Still, when they met, one was at that point, they still get to- initially projected, since the pro- parts of Chicopee and Spring- Springfield and Palmer, it might getting his feet wet in Cam- gether when they can. Or, Pete cess from the state was “stream- field – is no stranger to Pete’s not hurt to have friends in high bridge while the other was pre- being Pete, he may have used lined a bit” after last week’s ap- new boss, President Joe Biden. places. paring for post-grad life. all the free time he had that day proval from both town’s boards Pete – Pete Buttigieg, a.k.a. “I was a freshman and he helping his old pal unload that of selectmen. Mayor Pete – started to make was a senior at the time,” Lesser plane. Even if that bit of trivia Lesser, Buttigieg met on Any Wilbraham or Hampden his name as the second young- said. is confined to the dustbin of his- Harvard ‘brain break’ resident who was eligible for in- est mayor in South Bend history “I would describe him as a tory, it’s wholly inconsequen- They spent only one year oculation under Phase 1, as well at age 29 in 2012 and later as a bit of a big man on campus. He tial compared to how their lives as schoolmates, though Lesser as the first group of Phase 2, can rival to Biden in the 2020 prima- would continue to intersect. and Buttigieg probably would now register for appointments. ries. He now serves in Biden’s Please see LESSER, page 13 “Between the senior centers in Wilbraham and Hampden, we’ve booked 100 appointments for Thursday, and we have a ‘Complete collapse’ of internal structures blamed for deadly outbreak small waiting list,” Conselino By Dalton Zbierski mer leadership, which contrib- pandemic as the novel coronavi- a permanent staffing structure.” said. “We’ll know at the end of Staff Writer uted to the removal and arraign- rus overran the facility. Employees would often call this week if we’ll have the next ment of former superintendent Sudders said the widespread out simply because they’d failed 100 coming in for next week. HOLYOKE – The fifth leg- Bennett Walsh. use of mandatory overtime and to receive their schedules in The plan is to continue with that islative hearing pertaining to the “There were not the internal unpredictable staffing sched- a timely manner and couldn’t schedule until we get an increase Soldiers’ Home outbreak oc- processes, clinical management ules at the facility had long been reschedule personal commit- in doses… then open up to the curred on Jan. 21, when Health and operations to withstand troublesome. Prior to the pan- ments. Moving forward, time multi-site (vaccination) plan.” and Human Services Secretary a pandemic,” Sudders said. demic’s arrival, Sudders ordered off requests will be posted in Big Y in Wilbraham and East Marylou Sudders listed several “There are many nursing homes a staffing study at the home. three-month blocks. Longmeadow are also offering of the measures being taken to in Massachusetts that faced the “I was, frankly, stunned that The lack of structure led vaccinations, select board chair ensure that such an event never pandemic, including [the Sol- there had never been a perma- directly to a high turnover rate Bob Russell said. Twenty per reoccurs. diers’ Home in Chelsea], but nent staffing schedule at the among staff, who had not re- day are available at the Wilbra- After at least 76 veterans their internal structures didn’t home – that’s, like, a basic. Staff ceived proper training or de- ham Big Y pharmacy while the residing in the facility died of collapse. What happened at should not have to figure out velopment. Sudders noted that East Longmeadow location has COVID-19 last spring, the state Holyoke, from my read of ev- week to week what their sched- changes have been implemented a higher volume of vaccinations aspires to return the site to its erything, was a complete col- ules are going to be,” Sudders over the past 10 months. per day, although Russell said he former glory. But the unprece- lapse because it didn’t exist. said. “There was an overuse of “The home did not have a was unsure of the exact number. dented tragedy was the result of Staff were left on their own to overtime. When I say that, it’s strong internal nursing [and] Selectman Bob Boilard said several issues. come up with responses.” either some people using a lot of ongoing development program,” he’d heard of more people hav- First, Sudders identified sev- More than 80 Soldiers’ overtime to fill gaps in staffing Sudders said. “That has been ing adverse reactions to the sec- eral rampant problems that were Home staff were sickened structures, or positions are not observed under the home’s for- during the early stages of the aligned in a way where you have Please see SOLDIERS, page 13 Please see VACCINE, page 13 Page 2 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021 NEWS ABOUT TOWN Wilbraham Junior Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services Women’s Club holding announces new board members annual Snowman Contest SPRINGFIELD – the three new nominees: lenge and SparkHolyoke/EforAll. Martin Luther King, Jr. Rose M. Colon, Esq., He lives in Wilbraham. WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Junior Women’s Family Services, Inc. John J. Garvey, and Dr. Dr. Sullivan is Lead Faculty for Club is once again holding their annual Snowman Con- (MLKFS) has announced Allison Sullivan. the Occupational Therapy Doctor- test and hoping that this year we will have snow! The the addition of three new Attorney Colon is ate program at American Interna- contest is open to residents of Wilbraham and photos can members to its board of a criminal defense and tional College. As an occupational be submitted on the Facebook page, 2021 Wilbraham directors. personal injury attorney therapist and educator, Dr. Sullivan Snowman Contest. “Our mission and ser- based in Springfield. She has dedicated her career toward More information including rules can also be found vices have expanded to engages in in all aspects improving the lives of individuals on the club’s website, WilbrahamJuniorWomens.org. For meet in-part the incredi- of criminal defense and with intellectual and developmen- questions or to learn more about the Wilbraham Junior John J. Garvey Women’s Club, please visit the website or contact Jill- ble needs of the commu- civil personal injury lit- tal disabilities across the lifespan, Marie Decarolis at [email protected] for questions and nity during this time of hard- igation. Attorney Colon working in day habilitation ser- information about membership or Marva Walting at mar- ship,” said Calvin Hill, MLKFS earned her Paralegal Certificate vices, school-based occupational [email protected] for details about the contest. Board Chair and Vice President of from the American Bar Associ- therapy, and residential settings in Diversity, Inclusion, Community ation, is a graduate of Bay Path a career spanning 27-years. She Engagement for Springfield Col- University, where she earned a is the chair of the MAOT West- lege. “Therefore, adding additional Bachelor of Arts degree with a con- ern Massachusetts Mental Health Hunting tree stands must and talented hands to our leader- centration in legal studies, and she Special Interest Group, a certified ship will assist us in fulfilling the earned her Juris Doctorate degree group exercise and yoga instruc- be removed by Feb. 28 words of Dr. King as we attempt to at Western New England Universi- tor (RYT), and the co-founder and do more for others.” ty. Attorney Colon lives in Spring- leader of #OTalk2US, a Twitter WILBRAHAM – Every year, the Conservation Com- The MLKFS Emergency Food field. chat for occupational therapists mission approves archery-only deer hunting on seven Pantry now helps over 500 people Mr. Garvey is the founder of with tens of millions of views of town-owned conservation properties. Hunters typically and afterschool programs and night Garvey Communication Associ- tweets carrying this tag. put up temporary tree stands and remove them at the end spot programs support literacy and ates Inc., a Springfield-based digi- Dr. Sullivan earned a bachelor’s of the season, but that is not always the case. academic achievement essential tal Public Relations and Marketing of Fine Arts degree from Amherst Permanent tree stands are not allowed on any prop- for the life success that disrupts the agency. A native of Springfield, he College, a master degree in Occu- erty that is owned by the town. If you or someone you know has a tree stand on town property, please remove cycle of poverty. MLKFS also runs is a graduate of Marquette Univer- pational Therapy from Springfield it by Feb. 28. a Historically Black College tour sity where he earned a bachelor’s College, and a Doctorate of Oc- Beginning in March, a group of people including Wil- program that brings young people degree in arts & sciences with hon- cupational Therapy from Temple braham Police, Environmental Police and the Conserva- to a place where dreaming and de- ors and of American International University. She currently volun- tion Commission will be locating left-behind tree stands sire meet possibility. Funding for College where he earned a master’s teers as an advisory board member and removing them from trees. These stands will be held such socially focused program- degree in organizational develop- for Lighthouse, a board member at the Wilbraham Police Department for identification ming continues to become increas- ment with an emphasis on strategic and Social Media Committee chair and pick-up by the owner. You will be required to show ingly limited at a time when the planning. Mr. Garvey is a volunteer for Allen Cognitive Network, and proof that it is your stand. need could not be more pressing. at Wild Care Cape Cod, a former serves on the Human Rights Com- If the tree stands are not picked up by the owner, they At the regular meeting of the board member of Valley Venture mittee for Viability. Dr. Sullivan will be sold at auction on a date to be determined. Thank board on Thursday, Jan. 21, the Mentors, and a past mentor for lives in Springfield. you for your anticipated cooperation on this matter. board voted unanimously to accept the startup accelerators MassChal-

COME GROW WITH US Children’s Museum holding virtual LANDSCAPE FOREMAN LANDSCAPE LABORER calendar raffle in April Position Overview: We are looking for a Job Description: We are looking for a WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham seum would appreciate contributions of highly motivated experienced individual highly motivated experienced individual Children’s Museum is holding a ‘virtual’ gift cards to area businesses, raffle baskets with a positive attitude and an eye for with a positive attitude and an eye for calendar raffle throughout the month of or monetary donations and will be accept- detail to oversee Landscaping projects, detail to oversee Landscaping projects, April in lieu of its annual Bunny Break- ing donations until March 5th. manage the creation of Landscape manage the creation of Landscape fast. In exchange for support, the museum features such as flower beds, water features such as flower beds, water The organization relies heavily on will proudly promote businesses via its features, irrigation installs and repairs, features, irrigation installs and repairs, walkways, patios, walls, tree and shrub walkways, patios, walls, tree and shrub fundraising and the generosity of the social media pages and website. Email installations and routine maintenance jobs. installations and routine maintenance community. The Wilbraham Children’s Meagan Michel at president@wilbraham- This is a hands-on, dynamic, fast paced jobs. This is a hands-on, dynamic, fast Museum was unable to hold traditional childrensmuseum.com to donate today. environment that requires quick thinking, paced environment that requires quick playgroups or annual fundraising events “We appreciate any support this won- a team oriented attitude and multi-tasking thinking, a team oriented attitude and in 2020. The museum has made the deci- derful community can provide,” Michel abilities. Our company also offers snow multi-tasking abilities. Our company sion to cancel its annual Bunny Breakfast said. removal in the winter months as well. Also offers snow removal in the winter again this year, which is historically the months as well. largest single fundraising event, and miss- As foreman, you are responsible for ing it two years in a row is crushing, staff completing jobs on time and to Keith Isham As a Landscape Laborer, you are members said. Landscaping, LLC’s high quality standards, responsible for completing jobs on time The Wilbraham Children’s Museum is workmanship and professionalism. You and to Keith Isham Land-Landscaping, seeking donations from local businesses must also have the ability to train our crew LLC’s high quality standards, for our ‘virtual’ calendar raffle. The mu- labor with all precautions related to day to workmanship and professionalism. day landscaping activities.

Education/Experience Requirements: Experience working with all aspects of Landscaping & maintenance. Degree/certification and/or training in horticulture would be a plus. Valid drivers license, clean driving record PHONE and reliable transportation and DOT healthcard. 413.283.8393 Fax: 413.289.1977 Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Subscriptions: 413.283.8393 Must have great customer skills. Attention to detail with an eye for identifying plants, shrubs and trees commonly used in this region. Mechanical skills including operating EMAIL equipment such as chainsaws, lawn mowers, etc. Heavy lifting is required. Experience Advertising Sales safely driving a truck and trailer. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished Jocelyn Walker written or orally. Verbal & written communication skills. [email protected]

Editor At Keith Isham Landscaping, LLC we have Elise Linscott [email protected] spent years working with clever, creative people - some come to us with years of experience and Subscriptions others are new to the green industry. We don’t $45 per year pre-paid present our potential clients with a resume and ($50 out of state) expect them to hire us...we show up and WOW them! We are inviting you to WOW us! KEITH ISHAM LANDSCAPING Kitchen & Bath Cabinetry WEB PO Box 151, 162 Wilbraham Road Quartz & Granite Countertops Complete Installation & Remodeling www.wilbrahamhampdentimes. We offer employees competitive pay Hampden, MA 01036 FREE Design, In-Home Measuring turley.com commensurate with experience and/or education Please respond with & Estimates with a benefit package. We are a drug and Custom Built Commercial @ Wilbraham-Hampden Times alcohol free work environment. The applicant resume plus references to: Cabinetry & Installation must pass a pre-employment drug test. [email protected] The Wilbraham-Hampden Times 15 Railroad Avenue, Wilbraham • 413-596-6535 is published by www.kitchen-encounters.com Turley Publications, Inc. • www.turley.com February 11, 2021 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 3

THE BEST FRESH FOR Rice’s Fruit Farm receives MHA’s YOUR VALENTINE! “You Matter” Award So Good Together WILBRAHAM – It seems every- Roses, Dinner one in Wilbraham has a Rice’s story. ♥ Chocolates & Wine Some have deep roots: “I used to pick ♥ apples in the orchard” or “For the holi- days we’d come to Rice’s for pies, then LONG STEM ROSES down to Bennett’s for a turkey.” Others By the Dozen or By the Stem are more recent: “We bring the kids and the dog for ice cream” or “My morn- Beautifully Wrapped with ing commute always includes a stop at Baby’s Breath & Greenery Rice’s for coffee.” Rice’s continues to be a Wilbraham institution in large part due to the commitment of its owners, Valentine Bouquets the Maloni family. “I’m not from Wilbraham origi- & Arrangements nally,” Anthony Maloni said. “I knew about Rice’s but I didn’t realize how important it was to the town. When we For All Your Sweethearts bought Rice’s and opened our doors, some folks were happy right away. Deliver to Your Valentine’s Some were skeptical. We keep trying Much of what we do to help doesn’t get want this to be an environment where “Home Office” to find that balance between updating noticed, really, and that’s OK, it’s not they can feel safe, and where their par- Curbside Pick-up Available Too! Rice’s while staying true to the tra- why we help. Our community is good ents feel safe having them here. From ♥ Call 413-589-7071 ditions. It’s rewarding to see so many to us, so we give back. That can mean an employer’s perspective, I think it’s people appreciate this place as much as providing 20 pies to an association of important to create a culture where they do.” senior ladies, or filling a pickup truck employees can feel comfortable to talk “Since coming to Wilbraham, An- with food for a soup kitchen, or hosting about how they’re feeling.” thony has become part of the fabric local musicians and artists and artisans, Looking ahead, Lee and Malo- Love At First Bite of the community,” says Wilbraham or getting all our T-shirts from a local ni have started to plan events, such as resident Kimberley A. Lee, VP Re- supplier.” hosting Celebrity Scoopers to serve ice source Development & Branding for Lee said MHA helps people live cream as a fun way to raise funds and the Mental Health Association (MHA). their best life, and central to that goal awareness. “I really enjoy that kind of Romantic Dinners “When COVID hit, Anthony was there is the importance of positive mental thing,” said Maloni. “I’m less a CEO of with Rice’s discounts for MHA’s staff health. This impacts folks across the Rice’s the business than I am a steward to show that they are essential workers. to Take Out community, including children, seniors, of Rice’s the institution. I need to help Ready to Heat & Serve He’s been there with gift cards for our folks with disabilities, individuals and preserve what’s historic while making program participants to recognize a job families struggling with addiction, vet- sure it keeps moving forward for the well done. These incentives mean a lot erans and others at risk for suicide, and long run in a way that’s sustainable Filet Mignon and everyone at MHA appreciates his anyone who wants to feel better emo- for the people in town. I want people with Applewood Smoked Bacon & Cabernet Sauce generosity.” tionally. to think of Rice’s and think, ‘good On Jan. 19, MHA presented Maloni “Mental health seems to get more products and good service and I love Crab Stuffed Lobster Tail with the organization’s “You Matter” attention now, as there’s less stigma their coffee,’ but there’s more. There’s with Drawn Butter & Lemon award, acknowledging his generosity around getting help,” said Maloni. “I’m an emotional attachment to this place. and continuing support of MHA and the glad that MHA does so much to help. I We’re always figuring that out. Sup- Complete with Choice of Appetizer & Dessert community at large. like to think I’m helping, too, by creat- porting programs like those at MHA are Dinners Include a Medley of Roasted Potatoes “MHA does good work for peo- ing an atmosphere at Rice’s that feels another way for us to make and keep an Fresh Baby Vegetables and a Mini Ciabatta Bread ple who need some help,” Maloni ex- like family. The kids who work here attachment with our community.” plained. “I’m glad to support them. aren’t my kids, but I look after them. I $35.00 Per Person Available Saturday & Sunday Nancy D. Mirkin joins Polish National Credit Union FEBRUARY 13 & 14 Please Order Dinners 24 Hours In Advance CHICOPEE – Nancy D. Mirkin Western Massachusetts community, Nancy to the team. Without being of Longmeadow has joined the Polish which is reflected in current commu- said, she has a remarkable resume, National Credit Union as Vice Presi- nity involvement. She is a founding but her involvement with the commu- Kids Home Too? dent of Commercial Lending. member of Credit for Life Financial nity stands unmatched,” said James P. Add On a Family Side Order of Mirkin, a Western Massachusetts Literacy; a life-long member of the Kelly, president and CEO of the Polish Macaroni and Cheese or native, has her Master’s in Business Greater Springfield Chamber of Com- National Credit Union. “It is clear that Administration from Western New En- merce, where she is a legislative com- with her dedication and hard work she Honey Stung Chicken Tenders gland College as well as a Bachelor’s mittee member; Mental Health Asso- will excel with members and expand Menu Items Available A La Carte in the Deli of Art in economics from the Univer- ciation, where she is a board member our presences in the Pioneer Valley.” sity of Massachusetts. She has been in and finance Committee member. Nan- Headquartered in Chicopee, Polish Plus Additional Valentine Entrées the banking industry for 38 years and cy has won the Florence Bank Com- National Credit Union is a full-ser- While Supplies Last brings with her an impressive history munity Support Award; the March of vice credit union with a full suite of of commercial lending knowledge and the Dimes Charitable Leadership consumer and business products. The experience. Her areas of expertise in- Award; and the Professional Women’s Credit Union has eight branches lo- Randall’s Hand-Dipped Chocolate Covered clude business networking, relation- Chamber of the Affiliated Chambers of cated in Chicopee, Granby, Westfield, ship management, financial analysis, Commerce for Greater Springfield’s Southampton, Hampden and Wilbra- problem solving and communication. Woman of the Year Award. ham. STRAWBERRIES Mirkin is a proud member of the “PNCU is excited to welcome Ava Marie Handmade VALENTINE CHOCOLATES

CHAMPIONS Celebrate OF CARE Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday Because of our lasting devotion to FEBRUARY 16 providing quality skilled care and short-term With Chef Mike’s Famous Gumbo therapy to our community, we were voted Best Nursing Home for 2020-2021 by ALWAYS FRESH AT U.S. News & World Report!

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631 CENTER ST. Route 21 Mass Tpke Exit 7 LUDLOW • 589-7071 • www.randallsfarm.net WINTER HOURS LIFE CARE CENTER OF WILBRAHAM OPEN EVERY DAY 7AM – 7 PM Find us on Facebook and YouTube Dennis Lopata, Executive Director • 413.596.3111 • 2399 Boston Rd. • Wilbraham, MA 01095 • LifeCareCenterofWilbraham.com 144881 Page 4 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021 Monson Savings Bank prepared for 2021 leadership transition As a lifelong resident of Monson, ings Bank for over 30 years and began Center in Wilbraham and the new branch Two longtime Monson locals Moriarty’s in-depth understanding of the his career at Monson Savings Bank in location in East Longmeadow. Along with to lead bank forward bank’s local neighborhoods give him a 1987 as a teller. In addition to being an Moriarty, Lowell recognized the impor- unique insight into what a community alumni of Monson High School, he grad- tance of providing customers with digital MONSON – Monson Savings Bank’s bank means to the area. That along with uated from Old Dominion University, the banking, online account opening and on- leadership transition plan announced ear- his experience, knowledge and dedication Massachusetts School for Financial Stud- line application options. lier in 2020 has been a success with the to community banking made him an opti- ies at Babson College and the Graduate Lowell has been heavily involved in bank well-prepared for the transition tak- mal successor to fill the role of president School of Banking in Colorado. He is a the local community and plans to con- ing place in February 2021. Daniel Mori- and CEO. board member of the YMCA of Greater tinue his support and service to the area. arty Sr., the current president and future An alumni of Monson High School, Springfield. His involvement over the years includes CEO of Monson Savings Bank, will be he then graduated with honors from both “I am so happy to continue my career the roles of board member and past chair- carrying on the bank’s legacy following Providence College and the National with Monson Savings, a local bank truly man of the United Way of Pioneer Val- the retirement of Steve Lowell, the bank’s School of Banking at Fairfield University. focused on our customers,” said Rouette. ley, a corporator and Finance Committee president and CEO for the last 10 years. He is heavily involved in the local com- “We care about their well-being, their fi- member of the Monson Free Library, a Michael Rouette will be leading along- munity through outreach efforts including nancial health and work hard to continu- Community Benefits Advisory Council side Moriarty as the executive vice pres- his roles as East of the River Chamber ally optimize the way we operate to best Board member of Wing Memorial Hospi- ident and chief operating officer. Board of Director, Baystate Health East- serve their banking needs. Both personal tal, a board member of the Savings Bank “Dan is highly qualified for this role. ern Region Community Benefit Adviso- and business banking customers can feel Employees Retirement Association, past He has an abundance of experience in ry Council, Community Foundation of confident that when they place their trust chairman of the Depositor’s Insurance community banking and has been instru- Western MA Volunteer Grant/Scholar- in Monson Savings Bank that they will be Fund and a board member of the Mas- mental in Monson Savings Bank’s suc- ship Reviewer, Brightside Golf Classic well taken care of.” sachusetts Bankers Association. He will cess over the last 22 years. He is a true lo- co-chair, Pro-Am Shriners Hospital Golf Rouette and Moriarty both appreciate continue his service as chairman of the cal to area and has a unique understanding Tournament co-chair, Monson Home for and embrace the values that differentiate board for the Baystate Health Eastern Re- of the market we serve,” said Lowell. “He Aged Board Member, Finance Commit- Monson Savings Bank from its compet- gion, board member and treasurer of the knows and cares about these communities tee Member and confirmation teacher of itors. A keen focus on customers, pro- Western Mass EDC, a Finance Commit- and is passionate about continuing to pro- St. Patrick’s Church in Monson, and As- viding personalized attention, innovative tee member for Baystate Health and as a vide them with the best community bank- sistant Varsity Soccer Coach of Monson banking tools and creating a positive work board member of the Depositor’s Insur- ing service and support. We look forward High School. culture for Monson employees being just ance Fund. to his leadership and the new successes he “I have deep roots in the communities some of the distinguishing factors. “All of us at Monson Savings Bank will help bring the bank.” Monson Savings Bank serves. I was born, “Michael is a positive and knowl- have found Steve’s leadership and support As of October 2020, Moriarty Sr. raised, went to school here, bought my edgeable leader who inspires others to over the years to be invaluable. Monson’s was named president of Monson Savings first home, happily married and raised my bring their best to the table,” said Lowell. growth and success over the last decade is Bank. He will assume his role of presi- children here. I still proudly call Monson “On top of his many years of community in large part to his leadership. He devel- dent and CEO of Monson Savings Bank and Western Massachusetts my home,” banking experience, his local roots and oped a culture of respect and teamwork following Lowell’s retirement effective said Moriarty. commercial lending background give him that fostered a positive and productive Feb. 14. Likewise, Michael Rouette, recently a distinctive link with our local business work environment, allowing every team Moriarty has been with Monson Sav- named executiveLUBELUBE –vice OIL – president OIL – FILTER – FILTERand chief community. Dan and Michael’s long con- member to feel invested and happy with ings for 22 years. He joined the bank in operating officer,WithWith quality alsoquality Exxon has Exxon Mobil a longMobil oil, oil,local nection as friends, teammates and col- their work,” said Moriarty. “I look for- 1998 as an accountingWE’RE manager,WE’RE working STILL STILL historyoil with filter,oil Monsonfilter, 21 point 21 point check, and check, Westerntop off top all off fluids.Mass. all fluids. leagues, their local roots, their innovative ward to continuing forward with the cul- his way up, and most recently Moriarty In fact, he and MoriartyUp toUp 5 quartsto 5grew quarts of oil.up of together, oil. thinking and their respected leadership ture he has established.” served as the bank’s senior vice presidentOPEN!OPEN! are longtime friends, and bothExcludesExcludes attended approach are the reasons why they are a Incorporated as a mutually chartered and chief financial officer since 2011. Monson High$ $ School95 and95 dieselthendiesel &worked & perfect and dynamic team to lead Monson community bank in 1872, Monson Sav- syntheticsynthetic “Humbled and honored,” are the words alongside one17 another17 at Monson Savings Savings Bank forward. Monson Savings ings Bank has the longest tenure of ser- MostMost Vehicles Vehicles – With – Withthis couponthis coupon Moriarty used to describe the trust placed Bank for years.SupersedesSupersedes all other all other coupons coupons Bank is in good hands.” vice and stability in its market. Civic in him as the next leader. Rouette has beenExpiresExpires with 5/31/20 5/31/20Monson SavR - R Lowell has been the president and leaders chartered the bank with the intent CEO of Monson Savings Bank for the to give working men and women the op- LUBE$ $ – OIL – FILTER last 10 years. Following his retirement portunity to save, which – incredibly, they With10 quality10 OFFExxon OFF Mobil oil, on Feb. 14, 2021, Lowell will continue to could not do prior to the bank’s inception. WE’RE STILL oil filter, 21 point check, top off all fluids. serve Monson Savings Bank in the role of Today, Monson Savings Bank retains its anyany serviceUp toservice 5 quarts over of over oil. $150 $150 Excludes chairman of the Board. legacy of empowerment through savings, OPEN! $$ $ 95 diesel & At the start of Lowell’s 10 year tenure but has expanded to serve its customers 201720 OFF OFFsynthetic as President and CEO in 2010, Monson with a variety of innovative financial ser- Most Vehicles – With this coupon anyanySupersedes service service all otherover couponsover $250 $250 Savings Bank had five offices with $237 vices, including digital banking, online MostMost VehiclesExpires ExpiresVehicles – With 2/28/215/31/20 – Withthis T couponthis couponR million in assets and 60 employees. 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(Up• toAutomatic •$50/PartsAutomatic only/not Transmission Transmission valid with other Service coupon Service offers) We are celebrating our 20th year at the Schoolhouse Commons. • •FREE•Automatic FREE Towing Towing Transmissionduringduring working working Service hours hours Thanks to our wonderful “friends,” volunteers and patrons. (to• (toJackson'sFREE Jackson's Towing for forrepair repairduring within within working 15 mile 15 mile radius)hours radius) Hours: • Quality• Quality Pre-Owned(to Pre-Owned Jackson's Vehiclesfor Vehiclesrepair within • Snow • Snow15 mile Tire Tireradius) Changeover Changeover Tues. 10am - 4pm • Wed. 10am - 4pm Meet MeetSTORM STORM – – • Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles • Snow Tire Changeover Meet STORM – Thurs. 10am - 4pm • Fri. 10am-4pm Our NewestOur Newest Hope to see you there TeamTeam Member! Member! Book donations will be accepted at the Palmer Public E X 2 P 0 Library or the Library Loft during open hours. I R 2 E 5 S 25 05 Please, no magazines or Reader's Digest Condensed Books. We accept books only in good, clean condition. 5 Star Authorized Registered State 5Emissions Star5 AuthorizedStar Repair Authorized For more information call 283-3330 ext. 100 FacilityRegistered Registered#RP008269 State State EmissionsEmissions Repair Repair 1307 Park Street (Route 20), Palmer, MAFacilityFacility #RP008269 #RP008269 413-289-1016 • 800-662-1016 13071307TEMPORARY Park Park Street Street (RouteHOURS: (Route 20), MON-FRI 20), Palmer, Palmer, 8-4 MA MA Proceeds To Benefit the Palmer Public Library 413-289-1016413-289-1016 • 800-662-1016 • 800-662-1016 TEMPORARYTEMPORARY HOURS: HOURS: MON-FRI MON-FRI 8-4 8-4 February 11, 2021 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 5 Hampden Senior Center upcoming events Hampden Public Library Exercising with YMCA on Pick-Up”. Your completed Puzzle offering curbside pickup, Zoom – Open to everyone! Cost $2 Pac needs to be returned by February Sand for Hampden Seniors – per class. You will need a computer/ 26th and dropped in the box marked The fire department will deliver a DVDs, games, books and laptop/tablet, internet access and an “Puzzle Pac Drop Off”. Raffle draw- FREE five-gallon bucket of sand to email. Call (413) 566-5588 for more ing will be March 5 and winners will your home for the winter weather. details. be notified. You must be over the age of 60 liv- apps ing in Hampden. Call (413) 566-5588 HAMPDEN – Looking for something to Free Winter Vegetables – D & Building Fundraiser – “Window and leave your name, address, phone do at home this winter? Explore the resources R Farm offers fresh produce and it’s Cling” – Easy Cling to place on your number, and location on proper- available through the Hampden Public Library. FREE with HIP! Shares are limited, car or home window to show support ty where you would like the bucket The library offers curbside pickup, available Mon- so call Wendy at (413) 566-5588 or for the Hampden Senior Center. Sug- dropped off. day-Wednesday from 12-4:00 p.m.; Thursday from email [email protected] to gested donation $2 each. All dona- 2-6 p.m.; and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. To sched- sign up. tions are applied to our building fund. Phone Pal Program – Sign up ule a pickup time, call the library at (413) 566-3047 Call (413) 566-5588 to place your or- to be a phone pal with a Springfield or visit hampden-library.org for more information. Warm your HEART by helping der and for pick up details. College Occupational Therapy Stu- The library is always adding new books and DVDs to warm the HEARTS of others - Do dent. Possible Conversation Topics: the collection. The newest additions to the collection you know a Senior in Hampden who Foot Care – Please call 566-5588 • Share life stories and adventures • can be found at the bottom of the library’s website. is home bound and could use a little to schedule an appointment. Masks Get advice on using cell phone, tab- Each library card gives more than just ac- cheering up? We would love to send are required, and you must wait in let, and computer skills • Share each cess to library books and DVDs. a little gift to show we care and help your car until your scheduled ap- other’s topics of interest • Talk about Using the library card, folks can access a wide variety put a smile on their face. If you know pointment time, so we can sanitize in anything that is meaningful and pur- of eBooks and e-audiobooks through the apps, along someone who could use this gift of between appointments. poseful to you! Communication op- with documentaries and movies and language-learn- cheer please contact the Hampden tions available via: phone call, Face- ing services. Senior Center. Memory Café to meet via Zoom Time or Zoom visits. If interested, While the library building is still closed to the on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 11:30 please call Wendy at (413) 566-5588 public, its staff aims to continue working to meet the Happy Valentine’s Day – Feb. 12 a.m. – Memory Cafe is a safe and for more information. needs of town residents. from 1-1:30 p.m. – Drive up and take comfortable space where caregivers away a free sweet treat! and their loved ones living with De- Grab N’ Go Lunch Program – mentia or Alzheimer’s can socialize, Tuesday through Friday, pick up from B&D GENERAL SERVICES - Since 1982 Puzzle Pac’s – We have put to- listen to music, play games, and en- 11:30 to noon. This program is pro- Window & Door Installation Specialist gether four fun puzzle games, with joy other activities. You don’t need a vided by Greater Springfield Senior New & Replacement a raffle and prizes for those who computer to participate, you can call Services and serves a healthy lunch take up the challenge. These will be in and connect with everyone just by for anyone 60 or older. Suggested Call For Your Free Estimate Today available for pick up starting Feb. 2 using your phone. Please call Wendy donation $2. Call (413) 566-5588 to HIC#1755887 - 413-455-5458 at the Hampden Senior Center by the at (413) 566-5588 or email her at out- sign up. front door in box marked “Puzzle Pac [email protected] to sign up.

When the discussion was complete, the board autho- GAMING from page 1 rized Markel to move forward with the design process meadow Road, Wilbraham Road and Allen Street.” using Gaming Commission money and work towards The project is eligible for Gaming Commission fund- landing federal funding for a large-scale process. ing due to its status as a primary roadway that leads to the In the coming months, the board will hold an open Springfield casino. The project would cost approximately meeting to gather ideas from the community. An engi- $3 million and be paid for entirely by federal funding. neering firm has not yet been hired, although that action “Presumably, that would reduce the number of acci- could soon be taken. dents,” said Markel. “There would be no cost for design and no cost, obviously, for the project itself.” The board initially considered creating a sidewalk that would lead to the senior center on Allen Street from public housing, but the idea received no traction. Select- woman Mary Ellen Glover summarized the town’s sen- timent. “What you get from the community is, ‘Let’s address the three corners there.’ You get that a lot. You don’t get people talking about putting in a sidewalk because they want to walk to the senior center,” said Glover. ◆ La Cucina di Hampden House Markel said he hadn’t heard support for a potential 1 Allen Street, Hampden, MA sidewalk, either. 413-566-8324 “That seems to not get too much support either from selectmen or the community,” he said. “I think there are www.lacucinahampden.com fewer complications with this than with the sidewalk be- CURRENT HOURS: Mon-Thurs 3-8pm; cause you have to build it, it’s going to be very expensive Sat 2-9pm; Sun 2-8pm if you do it in concrete, probably in the range of a couple hundred thousand dollars. It’s a long distance, and I think Lounge open & pizza available 7 days funds would run short there.” 2021-Time to organize your closet! The board previously discussed the possibility of im- A custom closet system is the ◆ plementing stop signs at the junction rather than a more necessity that will also be a luxury. Route 20 Bar & Grille expensive system of street lights. We work with you to design and 2341 Boston Road (The Wilbraham Shops) “I’m personally not in favor of a four-way stop be- build the perfect closet system to match your needs, style and home. Wilbraham, MA cause of a memory problem,” said selectman John Flynn. 413-279-2020 “Too many people would remember that there was never Custom built in Wilbraham. Come see our showroom. a stop sign there. Lights, unfortunately, will have to go up 15 Railroad Avenue, Wilbraham • 413-596-6535 www.route20barandgrille.com if you want to do anything to solve it.” www.kitchen-encounters.com CURRENT HOURS: Lunch: Thurs-Sat starting at 11:30am; Dinner: Tues-Thurs 4-9pm; CUSTOMER PICK USDA INSP. FROZEN USDA INSP. $ 99 Fri & Sat 4-10pm; Sunday 11:30am-7:00pm; BUY DIRECT AND SAVE $$$ OF THE WEEK TILAPIA FILLETS ...... lb FRESH BONELESS 1 Sunday Brunch 11:30am-2:30pm USDA INSP. FROZEN USDA INSP. FROZEN BONE-IN CENTER CUT BEEF STRIP LOIN $ 79 CUT $ 74 WHOLE BONELESS & SKINLESS ◆ Donovan's Irish Pub PORK LOIN CHOPS ...... 1 lb FREE lb OR HALF ¢ 4 TRAY PAK USDA INSP. FRESH CHICKEN THIGHS ...... 77 lb Eastfield Mall, 1655 Boston Road, Springfield, MA PORK COUNTRY STYLE USDA INSP. USDA INSP. FRESH 413-543-0791 $ 47 FRESH BONELESS www.donovanspub.com RIBS ...... 1 lb BONELESS & SKINLESS $ 29 BEEF CURRENT HOURS: Thurs-Sat 11am-9pm; USDA INSP. FRESH CHICKEN BREAST 10 LB BAG .. 1 lb BONELESS CENTER CUT CUT FREE EYE ROUND Sun 9am-7pm; Sunday breakfast 9am - noon $ 79 USDA INSP. FRESH WHOLE PORK LOIN ...... 1 lb $ 99 2 lb CHICKEN THIGH ◆ Venice Pizza & Grill SLICED IN OUR DELI ¢ USDA INSP $ 99 BONE-IN 10 LB BAG ...... 66 lb 2341 Boston Road, The Wilbraham Shops lb USDA INSP. TURKEY BREAST ...... 3 FRESH BONE-IN USDA INSP. FROZEN HEAT & EAT Wilbraham, MA 413-540-8080 LENTEN SPECIALS AMERICAN LAMB FRENCH TOAST $ 99 USDA INSP FROZEN www.venicepizzagrill.com $ 49 LOIN CHOPS STICKS 2 LB BAG ...... 2 ea BREADED SHRIMP ...... 4 lb OPEN: Tues-Thurs 10:45am-9:30pm USDA INSP FROZEN GREAT AMERICAN 90 Avocado St. GREAT WITH PASTA $ 99 $ 99 90 Meat Outlet SEAFOOD COMBINATION ...... 2 ea lb Springfield Fri & Sat 10:45am -10pm; Sun 11am-9pm 7 HOURS: Mon. - Wed. 8-4 413-737-1288 USDA INSP FROZEN GREAT AMERICAN 2 LB BAG $ 99 Thurs. 8-6 • Fri. 8-6 • Sat. 8-3 Closed Monday WHITING FILLETS ...... 4 ea SALE DATES: www.90meat.com 2/11/21 - 2/17/21 We reserve the right BUY DIRECT FOR SAVINGS • SELECTION • SERVICE to limit quantities. Page 6 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021 VIEWPOINTS Combating cabin fever, inside and out The Wilbraham-Hampden Winters in New England can seem very long and our friends and family. ples of their sweet, freshly boiled, maple syrup. TIMES in the best of years. But as COVID-19 remains So, what to do? Considering our very recent The events go on from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and it’s The Wilbraham-Hampden Times is published every with us after almost a year, both this past fall and snow, one can choose to educate oneself and go $10 a piece for everyone regardless of age. Thursday by Turley now deep into a wintry February, it may seem hiking – but if you’re new to the activity, make But if the cold weather, snow and ice isn’t Publications, Inc., 24 Water even longer than normal. sure to learn about the right clothing to wear your or your family’s thing, there are plenty of St., Palmer, Mass. 01069. Punxsutawney Phil, the ever-popular Penn- based on temperatures and planned activities. indoor activities on Zoom or other video confer- Telephone (413) 283-8393, Fax sylvania groundhog removed from his burrow If you haven’t investigated doing so before, encing applications. (413) 289-1977. each year to prognosticate about how many more cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are possi- Area groups and libraries have worked hard to weeks of winter we’ll see before spring makes its ble now that we have plenty of the white stuff. keep us all entertained – and with the ubiquity of PATRICK H. TURLEY anxiously-awaited appearance, made his annu- And if you’ve never tried ice fishing and Zoom, it’s possible to enjoy programs you might CEO al visit above ground on Feb. 2. Unfortunately, you’re willing to take a ride, you can head to not have considered participating in before from KEITH TURLEY he saw his shadow and determined there will be Russell, where the Woronoco Heights Outdoor the comfort of your own living room. President six weeks more of winter, which seems fitting Adventures’ ice fishing staff, with Craig Mannix, Dreaming of gardening in the spring? The enough based on the recent snowstorms and cold will be on hand to help. With over 30 years of ice East Quabbin Land Trust, will host a book discus- EDITOR temps. fishing experience, Mannix and his team will be sion on Feb. 25, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., on “Nature’s Elise Linscott Luckily, Massachusetts’ “famous” ground- available to show even the most novice fisherman Best Hope: A New Approach to Conversation [email protected] hog, Ms. G, the official state groundhog of our how to catch the big ones under the ice. For those That Starts in Your Yard,” by Douglas Tallamy, a STAFF WRITER state, also made her annual appearance on Feb. 2. folks without the proper ice fishing equipment, professor of entomology at the University of Del- Dalton Zbierski She did not see her shadow and so predicted an plenty of “pop-ups” and other tools necessary to aware. He is also the author of “Bringing Nature [email protected] early spring. How early we don’t yet know. She successfully find fish will be available for use out Home.” He will discuss how homeowners can ADVERTISING SALES lives at the Massachusetts Audubon education on the frozen lake. turn their yards into conservation corridors that Jocelyn Walker center, Drumlin Farm, in Lincoln. While at Woronoco Heights on Feb. 20, it’s provide wildlife habitats. [email protected] It remains to be seen if either forecast is ac- also possible to try blacksmithing with the help of It’s free and people can email Jess Cusworth curate. In the Holyoke area, at least, skunks are a Forged in Fire contestant as well as snowshoe- at the trust at [email protected] if they are in- SPORTS EDITOR already on the move again, a sure sign spring ing and/or mountain biking, although COVID-19 terested, and she will send you the Zoom link. Greg Scibelli is headed our way. Of course, the Paper City is safety restrictions require all to bring their own The trust, the Trustees of the Reservation and [email protected] usually a little warmer than many other Western bike helmets. There will also be orienteering, es- Massachusetts Audubon all have outdoor and in- SOCIAL MEDIA Mass. locations, so who knows? cape challenges and scavenger hunt bingo as well door activities, and libraries across the state have Whether Phil’s or Mrs. G’s forecasting proves as other activities. If Mother Nature cooperates all kinds of online programs to enjoy, so take a true, we are all getting at least a touch of cabin with the right weather, there may be trips out to walk through the World Wide Web and see what @ Wilbraham-Hampden Times fever, and there’s certainly stronger feelings of the Top O’ The Hill Maple “sugar shack” where you can find to distract yourself until spring. WEB restlessness and boredom running through us all visitors are rewarded for their efforts with sam- www.wilbrahamhampdentimes. turley.com Fresh flower care and flowers for free With St. Valentine’s Day coming up this hopefully the bubble will be forced out. Cut the branches on a day that tempera- www.turley.com Sunday, my thoughts turn to flowers and choc- As you move your flowers into a vase tures are above freezing. The best for forcing Turley Publications, Inc. cannot olate. Flowers because I am who I am, and (make sure it’s clean!), remove any leaves are those that have many swollen buds. Bring assume liability for the loss of chocolate, because I am surely hoping hub- that you estimate will be under the water line. them indoors and recut the stems just as you photographs or other materials by will provide ample quantities in a heart- Waterlogged leaves will rot and make bacte- did for your cut flowers: under water and with submitted for publication. Materials will not be returned shaped box! Anyway, back to the flowers.. ria that can clog stems, shorten vase life and a diagonal cut. The branches can then be put except upon specific request Many folks will be graced with a bouquet make quite a stench! Some flowers do better in a container or vase with a few inches of wa- when submitted. of cut flowers in honor of this special holiday, if most of their foliage is removed, the reason ter in it. and I have some tips up my sleeve to make being that the leaves draw water away from I usually steer away from using floral sure you get longevity out of your gift. No the main stem, and therefore away from the preservative on flowering shrubs. Any side matter how your flowers make it home, either flower head. I generally snip off all the leaves branches or buds that fall below the water line Editorial in a sleeve or in a box, chances are they’ve of lilac, and remove all but the uppermost should be removed. Change the water every been out of water for some time. Once stems leaves of hydrangeas and zinnias. Usually a few days to prevent bacteria growth. If kept Policy start to seal up, water and nutrients won’t be small packet of floral preservative is includ- in a warm room, buds should break with- Letters to the editor able to flow and their lifespan could be cut ed along with your flowers. Using this in in a few weeks. Many other of our favorite should be 350 words or less short. Therefore, the first thing you ought to your vase of water will feed the blooms and spring-blooming trees and shrubs can also in length. No unsigned or do is recut them. Your goal is to have a clean encourage them to open to their fullest, viv- be forced into bloom. Try the same approach anonymous opinions will be cut, one that won’t crush the flower’s vascular id-color potential! with redbud, honeysuckle, crabapple, magno- published. We require letter writers to include his or her system. This year, Valentine’s Day coincides with lia and flowering almond, cherry and plum. town of residence and home In fact, I’ve never understood advice that the start of February vacation. Why not snip Roberta McQuaid graduated from the telephone number. We must mentions smashing floral stems; don’t do it! some branches of your favorite spring shrubs Stockbridge School of Agriculture at the authenticate authorship pri- or to publication. We reserve Use bypass clippers, or if you’re comfortable, for a neat experiment with the kids? Just University of Massachusetts. For the last 28 the right to edit or withhold a sharp knife. Household scissors usually ar- think, when the bought flowers are long gone, years, she has held the position of staff hor- any submissions deemed to en’t sharp enough, since they are geared more you’ll have some others waiting in the wings. ticulturalist at Old Sturbridge Village. She be libelous or contain un- for cutting paper or fabric. Most advice books The most common shrub to force in the vase enjoys growing food as well as flowers. Have substantiated allegations, personal attacks, defama- recommend making your cut on a 45 degree is the forsythia; it can be done as early as late a question for her? Email it to ekennedy@ tion of character and offen- angle to expose the most surface area possi- January or February, and right up until regu- turley.com with “Gardening Question” in the sive language. All unknown ble to water. Another trick is to cut the flower lar, outdoor bloom time. subject line. or alleged facts and quota- stems under water—this process will prevent tions offered by the author need to cite credible, unbi- air bubbles from clogging the stems. I usu- ased sources. Send letters ally fill a clean sink or bucket, submerge to: Editor, Wilbraham-Hamp- the flower stems and cut 1 or 2” off the den Times, 24 Water Street, bottom. If you’ve ever had a rose with a Palmer, MA 01069, faxed to 413-682-0013 or via e-mail bent head, that is an air bubble at work. to [email protected]. The Try re-cutting the stem under water and deadline for submissions is Friday at noon.

Correction Policy The TIMES will gladly correct factual errors that Tell Us What appear in this paper and can be substantiated. Cor- rections or clarifications will You Think always appear on the edito- rial pages. To request a cor- rection, send information in an e-mail or mailed commu- nication to the editor at the above address listed above. The Wilbraham-Hamp- den TIMES is published ev- Share your thoughts and suggestions ery Thursday by Turley Pub- with our staff and your fellow readers. lications, Inc. One year out of Participate in our opinion pages, town subscriptions are avail- or contact us anytime with your feedback! able at $45, out of state $50 by calling 800-824-6458 Ext. Wilbraham-Hampden 201. The deadline for sub- mission of news material, TIMES letters to the editor and pho- Your Community Newspaper tos is Monday at 12 p.m. The TIMES is not responsible for www.wilbrahamhampdentimes.turley.com submitted photos. [email protected] • 413.283.8393 February 11, 2021 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 7 CAMPUS NOTES Wilbraham Middle School announces Term 2 Honor Roll Green Meadows Elizabeth Long The following students received Honor Kavanagh, Kathryn Kennedy, Zachariah School announces named to Dean’s Roll status for the Term 2 marking peri- Kozub, Aidan Lee, Kaitlyn Lopez Pham, List at Endicott od at Wilbraham Middle School. Distin- Christian Lowe, Jack Lucarelle, Avery Lu- Term 2 Honor Roll guished Honors is all A’s in all subjects; cas, Hannah Luff, Ava Luszcz, Alexander College Honors is all A’s and/or B’s in all subjects. Major, Ava Manning, Michael Mazzafer- 2020-2021 School Year ro, Nolah McConnell, Samuel Meunier, BEVERLY, Mass. – Endicott Distinguished Honors – Grade 8: Jacob Moore, Ava Moretti, Morgan Mor- HAMPDEN – The following students College, the first college in the Hannah Alves, Lilliana Barkyoumb, Bry- row, Cailin O’Brien, Kayla O’Keefe, Mia received Honor Roll status for Term 2 at U.S. to require internships of its an Beckel, Nicholas Benninger, Audrey Peck, Caydence Pellerin, Jackson Pouliot, Green Meadows School. students, is pleased to announce its Bernard, Marissa Bontempi, Samantha Charlotte Powell, Katelynn Pronovost, Fall 2020 Dean’s List students. In Burnham, Mackenzie DaFonseca, Paul Natalie Proulx, HannahPrzechocki, An- Eighth Grade High Honors – Ala- order to qualify for the Dean’s List, Diehl, Lucy Dones, Grace Fallon, Wen nabella Rostek, Mostaffa Saleh, Colin ni Botas, Andrew McDonald, Landon a student must obtain a minimum Xi Gao, Aaron Gasteyer, Victoria Gon- Sheehan, Trevor Steele, Biaunca Stewart, Smith-Devenitch grade point average of 3.5, receive zalez, Alexander Gormley, Audrey Izzo, Isabella Strand, Thatcher Trumbull, Elijah Eighth Grade Honors – Alexsa no letter grade below “C,” have no Nora Kennedy, Quinn Kiernan, Arthur Webster, Celena Williams Abeid, Gianna Arasin, Lila Keegan, Ab- withdrawal grades, and be enrolled Lam, Andrew Lang, Alayna Lucas, Alison igail Rief in a minimum of 12 credits for the Mackie, Isabelle Manning, Antonia Mas- Distinguished Honors – Grade 6: Seventh Grade High Honors – Lana semester. caro, Michael McGrath, Catherine McMa- Lilliana Bennett, Bryana Blaser, Ange- Johnson, Ella Trosky Elizabeth Long of Wilbraham is hon, Alexander Melluzzo, Collin Meunier, lina Bontempi, Adrianna Brandoli, Ab- Sixth Grade High Honors – Caitlin among those named to the Dean’s Taylor Meunier, Margaret Michels, Sean igail Camire, Philip Castellano, Saman- Hebert List at Endicott College for the Fall Miller, Tiffany Nguyen, Ava Ofcarcik, tha Catellier, Ivy Christensen, Annabella Sixth Grade Honors – Kiera Con- 2020 semester. Long is majoring in Nathan Pace, Ethan Purcell, Hayden Rich- Cianfione, Kyla Dansereau, Katie DeGray, nors, Brielle Foisy, Amelia Martin, Haley English and is the daughter of Trac- ard, Matthew Ryan, Christopher Salvi, Addison Derosia, Tucker Derosia, Cather- Powers, Gracie Smith, Jocelyn Zanetti ey Long and Robert Long. Ella Sarno, Dillon Shea, Brady Suomala, ine Dickson, Jonathan Dyer, Isabella Es- Quinn Symington, Leah Tassinari, Isabel- teves, Seamus Fitzgerald, Alyssa Fortune, la Tirabassi Ella Gagliarducci, Olivia Gencarelli, Sara Gonzalez, Naomi Griffin, Lucy Haile, Honors – Grade 8: Emmamarie An- Liam Harrigan, Katelyn Hoar, Madelyn Wilbraham- Local students near, William Bao, Bryce Barlow, Rachael Hoskinson, Kadence Illig, Amelia Kel- Beaudry, Hunter Bennett, Joseph Bonavi- logg, Isabella Kirton, Peter Langone, Tea- Hampden named to Holy ta, Evan Bowler, Thomas Brogan, Robert gan Lawor, Abigail Lee, Perry Lempart, Bustamante, Jeremiah Campbell, Marga- Cooper Ludbrook, Emma Magill, Mary Scholarship Cross’ Fall 2020 ret Capuano, Gia Caputo, Jayme Cerasuo- McGrath, Jameson Murray, Chelsea Or- Foundation set to lo, Olivia Christenson, Zoe Dansereau, tega, Riddhi Patel, Kayla Pecoy, Natalie Dean’s List Jason DeGray, Elizabeth Dickson, Joshua Petit, Collin Purcell, Lauren Roberts, Kar- award $45,000 Disa, Ian Dragon, Lukas Dzierzgowski, olina Robles-Maurer, Sydney Rocha, Julia WORCESTER – A total of Samuel Ey, Amanda Fenyes, Nicholas Rossini, Jack Rumplik, Quinn Salerno, WILBRAHAM/HAMPDEN – The 1,453 students were named to Col- Fopp, Deacon Gardner, Kendall Gates, Ava Scatolini, Dillon Shaughnessey, An- Wilbraham-Hampden Scholarship Foun- lege of the Holy Cross’ Dean’s List Noelle Giombetti, Hunter Gormally, drew Stark, Tyler Supczak, Kaleb Sweet- dation is set to award over $45,000 in for outstanding academic achieve- McKenna Hale, Noelle Hisgen, Ryan man, Sylvia Tobias, Faith Trombly, Grace scholarships to seniors this spring. ment during the fall semester of the Ice, Joyce Kalli, Abdullah Khan, Layla Trombly, Hope Trombly, Brayden Tugie, Scholarship applications have been 2020-21 academic year. The fol- King, Taylor Labadorf, Max Lemek, Li- Isabella Usher, Drew Weinberg, Kei Wil- mailed to eligible seniors. Additionally, lowing local students made the list: anna Lisowski, Samantha Lloyd, Gracie liams, Michael Zanolli the application may be completed online Jordana Irzyk of Wilbraham, a Loddo, Jeremiah Martin, Nhi Nguyen, by visiting https://wilbraham-hampden- member of the Class of 2021, ma- Alya Nogueira, Ryan Oldread, Brayden Honors – Grade 6: Joseph Bier- scholarshipfoundation.org/scholarships/ joring in History. O’Sullivan, Thomas O’Toole, Laura Pe- mann, Quinn Bowler, Katherine Britt, application/. Applications must be post- Juliana Tronsky of Hampden, a coy, Summer Pinney, Mallory Poulin, Benjamin Carpenter, O’brien Chen, Ryan marked by March 5 at noon. member of the Class of 2022, ma- Claire Pouliot, William Pramberger, Gus Clewes, Ava Disa, Daniel Dix, Braedon Any questions, please contact the joring in Psychology. Przybyl, Sophia Rachele, Alexander Rice, Donahue, Isaac Echeverria Diaz, Sani- foundation at info@wilbraham-hamp- To qualify for the Dean’s List, Dawson Rice, Aiden Rodrigues, Ayden ah Evans, Carter Fortin, Richard Hale, denscholarshipfoundation.org. students must pass four or more let- Sackrider, Gianna Siciliano, Corey Smith, Jaxson Hinson, Jaccob Hisgen, Ainsley ter-graded courses with no failing Jack Sullivan, Camden Tabb, Colette Holden, Paige Holt, Ryan Jacobsen, Isali- grades during the semester and earn Thayer, Johanyliz Torres, Sophia Villan- na Jenne, Kalhan Kar, Abyaan Khan, Ga- a GPA of 3.5 or higher. ueva, Ian Wall, Rylee Welch, Alexander briel Kishinevski, Sophia Kozub,Caelan Wietecha Luszcz, Molly Lynch, Nola Malmborg, Mia Manseau, Cameron Maziarz, Molly Support the local Distinguished Honors – Grade 7: Michels, Malory Morrison, Jack Pater- businesses that Angelina Acevedo, Mali Awkal, Emma no, Ainsley Patterson, Nicholas Pelletier, Balog, Maxwell Baroni, Trinity Burgmy- Braeden Radway, Patrick Roach, Ca- support your er, Hayden Carlotto, Irene Chen, Anthony leb Robinson, Anne Rowland-LaValley, local newspaper. Cianfione, Logan Clark, Kelly Cronin, Madelyn Sackrider, Cameron Salvador, Allison Demetri, Madeline Dos Santos, Gianna Salvi,Jolena Sanchioni, Moira Let them know you Aidan Dzierwinski, Bruce Earl, Dome- Shannon, Norah Smith, Olivia Stephen, saw their ad in the nic Fantone, Miles Fergus, Noemi Fra- Cole Stone, Logan Thomas, Connor Till- ga, Lucas Fyntrilakis, Laila Hosnander, berry, Owen Tzoumas, Brooklyn Vasquez, Wilbraham Tyler Jaslanek, Maeghan Joyce, Molly Sarah Walsh, Madelyn Waskiewicz, Jade Kinsman, Evan Liverseidge, Luca Mas- Wong-Vallejo, Thomas Wurm Hampden Times troianni, Riley McLeod, Vinh Nguyen, February Special Alyssa Nogueira, Cambria Norval, Anna O’Toole, Cora Pace, Alex- HOME MOVIE/ ander Parent, Zachary Par- VIDEO TRANSFER SALE ent, Chloe Robins, Aezlin PLANNING FOR THE WEEK Rost, Lauren Rucki, Nina We Still Semanie, Connor Sey- FAMILY DINNERS (serves 4 adults) mour, Alexa Sherman, Lin- • Develop Film • Print From Negatives da Stanco, Owen Sullivan, SUNDAY - $30 • Print From Digital Photos Johnathan Tobias, Carly Penne, Meatballs & Sausage Tranghese, Abigail Tredo, Italian Salad, Warm Bread • Restore Photos • Passport Photos Elizabeth Woytowicz TUESDAY - $25 • Custom Frame And Sell Film Honors – Grade 7 Chicken Tenders & Fries Richmond Acquah, Rosalie Coleslaw, Italian Salad, Warm Bread Alpert, Kelly Balog, Logan WEDNESDAY - $28 Home Movie/Video Transfer Sale Barcome, Alec Boilard, Chicken Parmesan Over Penne Kennedy Burgmyer, Alys- sa Capen, Alexis Carreira, Italian Salad, Warm Bread Boston Childers, Nicholas THURSDAY - $28 10% OFF Cianfione, Natalia Clarke, Country Fried Chicken Steven Cocchi, Maliha Brian’s Home Made Mac ‘N Cheese Entire Order Daubon, Madison Du- Salad, Warm Bread PLEASE PRESENT THIS COUPON naj, Cody Erskine, Jacob WHEN PLACING ORDER. Fahey, Margaret Fulton, Dana’s Est. 2018 “Exactly what a Main Street Tavern should be” CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER Yong Ming Gao, Madyson 218 Main Street, Monson DISCOUNTS. EXPIRES 2/28/21. W Giroux, Jenna Goodwin, MAIN STREET Giselle Harris, Brody Har- www.218mainstreettavern.com Visit us in our new location! rison, Layla Ibrahim, John TAVERN 481A Breckwood Blvd., Springfield, MA 413-893-9078 (413) 782-0868 • www.IAFPhoto.com Page 8 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021 A COMMUNITY GALLERY WILBRAHAM

Readers are encouraged to send in medium to high resolution photos HAMPDEN for this page by e-mail to elinscott@ turley.com or mail to TIMES, 24 Water Street, Palmer, MA 01069. Please note that if you send us a photo of the Times in different parts of the world, please include a recognizable landmark in the background. Examples: Eiffel Tower; castle in Spain.

A football-themed snowman, dressed for the Super Bowl. Photo by David Miles.

Fran Selva and Pastor Barbara Thrall during Christ the King- Epiphany Church’s Souper Bowl of Caring food drive event on Feb. 6. Donations will benefit the Community Survival Center. Photo by David Miles.

The outline of a star shines through a sunny living room window in Wilbraham before the Sunday snowfall last weekend. Photo by David Miles.

Snowmen outside a home last weekend. Photo by David Miles.

Members of Christ The King-Epiphany Church in Wilbraham during the church’s Souper Bowl of Caring food drive on Feb. 6. Photo by David Miles.

THIS PAGE IS BROUGHT TO YOU AS A COMMUNITY SERVICE BY: Pafumi’s...Delivering Pizza and Homes to a Neighborhood Near You! You may recognize the name as your favorite spot for a delicious pizza, but did you know this family is also known for the highly sought-after REALTOR that shares their last name? Since founding Team413 in 2016, Heidi Pafumi, and her team have sold over 600 homes! 264 N Main St. Unit 22, East Longmeadow, MA

Heidi Pafumi 413-579-8326 | [email protected] Heidi knows houses - call her to call your home “SOLD”! February 11, 2021 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 9

WILBRAHAM Community Bulletin Board On April 21, 2021 Dick and Eileen Butler will be happily HAMPDEN married for 65 years! [And they said it wouldn’t last. Just kidding!]

Send us in your announcements! Happy Birthdays, Anniversaries, etc. Please send to [email protected]

History of the Red Sox with sports writer Martin Gitlin

Boston Red Sox Time championships and Virtual event from the Machine Book.” beyond. It will in- Wilbraham Public This presentation clude a question and features videos and answer period. Library photographs of the Author Martin greatest and most fas- Gitlin is an award WILBRAHAM – On Tues- cinating players, teams, winning journalist day, March 9 at 6 p.m., author events and who covered the Red and sports journal- moments in Sox extensively. He ist Martin Gitlin franchise has written many will present an history. Martin Gitlin sports books, and is online program The pro- especially passionate about the histo- gram also includes about baseball. ry of the Red Sox trivia questions for This is a virtual program; baseball team. patrons to ponder registration is necessary in or- Calling all base- and covers Sox der to participate. To register, ball fans! Take a history from the please call the library at (413) fun and enlighten- Royal Rooters, 596-6141 or visit the library’s ing journey through who launched website at www.wilbrahamli- Boston Red Sox Red Sox Nation, brary.org. history with the au- all the way to the thor of “The Ultimate four World Series

Rotary Scholarship Wilbraham Women’s applications now available Club scholarships WILBRAHAM – Brad Sperry, chairman of the Wil- WILBRAHAM/HAMPDEN – The braham-Hampden Rotary Club Scholarship Committee, Wilbraham Women’s Club is offering two has announced that applications for the 2021 Rotary $1,000 scholarships to Wilbraham or Hamp- Club scholarships are now available at both Minnechaug den residents who are graduating seniors Regional High School and Wilbraham & Monson Acad- planning on attending a four-year college or emy. university. Applications are due no later than April 1. The schol- Applications are available in the guid- arships are available to qualified high school students ance office at Minnechaug Regional High who are residents of Wilbraham or Hampden. School. If a student attends a private school The club will again award nine scholarships, each in and would like an application, contact Mrs. Members of Christ The King-Epiphany Church in Wilbraham during the church’s Souper Bowl of Caring food drive on Feb. 6. Photo by David Miles. the amount of $1,500. Applications may also be obtained Agnew at (413) 596-9480. The deadline for from Sperry by calling (413) 537-4171. receipt of the application is April 5.

THIS PAGE IS BROUGHT TO YOU AS A COMMUNITY SERVICE BY: Pafumi’s...Delivering Pizza and Homes to a Neighborhood Near You! You may recognize the name as your favorite spot for a delicious pizza, but did you know this family is also known for the highly sought-after REALTOR that shares their last name? Since founding Team413 in 2016, Heidi Pafumi, and her team have sold over 600 homes! 264 N Main St. Unit 22, East Longmeadow, MA

Heidi Pafumi 413-579-8326 | [email protected] Heidi knows houses - call her to call your home “SOLD”! Page 10 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021 WPL a year later; some innovations likely to outlast pandemic By Bernard T. Davidow Adult Services, Wilbraham Public Library

WILBRAHAM – Incredibly, we are approaching the one-year anniversary of the day COVID closed Wilbraham Public Library to patrons and staff – March 13, 2020 – sending us all on a journey we never saw coming. Staff members, at first forced to work remotely, have long since returned to the library. Patrons are again enjoying access to books, movies and other physical mate- rials in our collection, Bernard T. Davidow and limited entry to the Wilbraham Public Library’s computers are The library’s materials are quarantined Social distancing and safety guidelines building. Library programs are thriving available for public use, by appointment for one week upon return. are in place for patrons and staff entering online. And, as always, patrons are avail- only, for 45-minute reservations. the library. ing themselves of the many digital educa- tional and entertainment resources offered “When Merriam-Webster picked their free through the library website. online catalog or, if unable to do so, over words of the year, I was really expecting We have a ways to go to the new nor- the phone with library staff. Once the ma- to see ‘pivot’ as so many industries have mal, but we are making progress. terials are ready, the patron is notified and had to make changes this year on how we The building is staffed Monday asked to make an appointment for pick- did business, or served our communities,” through Friday beginning at 9 a.m. We are up. Appointments are spaced 10 minutes said Library Director Karen Demers. “The here until 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and apart. library was successfully able to adapt to Wednesday, and till 5 p.m. Thursday and Patrons drive to the back of the build- the world with a pandemic and continue Friday. ing, turn around, and pull up next to the to offer materials, reference services, and A limited number of patrons are al- book drop on the way out. They call the even limited in-library use. We appreciate lowed in the library Tuesdays and Thurs- phone number displayed in large figures The library is not charging fines for all the ways that our patrons have pivoted days to browse our collection or use the in the window there to let staff know that books and materials returned late during as well.” public computers – by appointment – for they have arrived. The materials, which the pandemic. Innovation has produced some chang- 45-minute intervals. Appointments can be have already been checked out, are put in a es that are likely to remain after the pan- scheduled online using the Events Calen- bag or bags and placed atop the book drop. demic subsides. dar on our website, wilbrahamlibrary.org, Once the staffer returns to the building, and media drops are immediately taken “We’re looking forward to the days or by calling the library at (413) 596-6141. the patron can exit the vehicle to retrieve to our Brooks Room, where they remain when we are back to normal, but I am sure Our curbside service has been im- the items. untouched – in quarantine – for a full that we will keep some of the new pro- mensely popular. Patrons reserve books, There has been some confusion about week. Once that week is over, the items cedures that we have gotten accustom to DVDs, CDs and other materials using our returned items. All returns from the book are checked in, removed from the borrow- er’s account, and returned to the shelves. providing,” Demers said. “I see curbside If patrons returned a book and still see the pickup as being a convenience for our pa- book on their account a few days later, trons well beyond COVID – it is a great that’s why. option for people with mobility concerns, No one will be charged if an item is or even families with young children in marked overdue as a result of the delay. the car who would find it easy to have bags We are not charging fines during COVID. of books delivered right to their vehicles.” We have expanded our free Outreach Anyone can receive regular library up- service to deliver to anyone who finds it dates via email. Sign up by going to our impossible to get to the library during the home page, clicking on the “E-Newslet- week. A library representative will drive ters” box, then the link under the heading materials to the person’s home. Patrons “Library Newsletters.” When you fill out need only call to arrange such a drop-off. the form, chec “General Library News.” Residents who don’t have a library We also post updates on our Facebook, card can apply for one online, on our web- Twitter and Instagram pages, accessible site, without stepping foot in the library. from icons on our home page. There is a link under the “Library Ser- Anyone who has questions can call the vices” heading on our toolbar. library at (413) 596-6141 to talk to staff It has been a year of tumult and adap- or leave a message. Or, email reference@ tation. wilbrahamlibrary.org. wilbrahamhampdentimes.turley.com

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A TURLEY PUBLICATIONSPORTS ❙ www.turley.com SEND US YOUR SPORTS SUBMISSIONS www.sports.turley.com Minnechaug rides offense to big opening win By Tim Peterson Sports Correspondent

WEST SPRINGFIELD — It probably would not have made a huge difference who the Min- nechaug hockey team faced in their season opener because they came out firing on all cylinders and never let up. After scoring three goals in the opening period, the Falcons exploded for six goal in the sec- ond period and added four more in the third en route to a 13-1 vic- tory over the Agawam Brownies at the Olympia Ice Center in West Springfield on Saturday, Jan. 30. “We’ve been practicing for the past two weeks and the kids Joseph Haluch were ready to finally play a game possesses the John O’Connor makes his way up the right side of the ice. today. I wasn’t surprised with puck. how well we played in today’s at Olympia at 8:40 on Thursday game,” said Minnechaug head night. coach Kyle Bousquet. “It did A year ago, Minnechaug take us a couple of minutes to posted a 6-0 shutout win in get going, but after that everyone the first meeting of the season just got a lot more comfortable. against Agawam. The second The guys are thankful to be back meeting was a much closer af- out on the ice again.” fair, as the Falcons escaped with It was the Falcons first game a 4-3 victory. a game was a 10-2 win against ated from Southern New Hamp- Rowley, who had been an as- since losing to West Springfield Amherst two years ago. shire University a couple of in the Western Mass. Division 3 sistant coach at Agawam High Agawam (0-3) started the years apart, but they’ve known School for the past five years, re- semifinals at Olympia last Febru- regular season a week earlier each other for more than ten ary. The start of this season was placed Rich Feeley as the varsi- than Minnechaug did with back- years. Rowley wasn’t expecting ty coach. Feeley decided to step delayed by more than a month to-back games against Westfield Bousquet to take it easy on his due to the COVID 19 pandemic. down from his coaching position and East Longmeadow. team in the first meeting of the due to personal reasons. “We knew that Agawam “Minnechaug is a very good season. had already played a couple of A total of 13 Minnechaug hockey team and we were excit- “I would never expect Kyle players either had a goal or an as- games,” Bousquet said. “It really ed to play them today,” said first- to take it easy on my team be- didn’t matter who we were play- Michael Moriarty clears the puck sist in the season opener against year Agawam head coach Todd cause I would never take it easy the Brownies. ing against because my players Rowley. “We’re a young team on him,” Rowley said. “I’m hop- away from the defensive end. were fired up to play.” It was a very memorable and we still have a lot of things ing that things do go a little bit game for Minnechaug senior The last time that the Fal- that we need to work on.” differently when we play Min- The two teams are scheduled cons scored at least ten goals in The two head coaches gradu- nechaug again next week.” to meet for the second time back Please see ICE HOCKEY, page 9

Football season vote reconsidered Challenge Cup set to finally debut By Gregory A. Scibelli qualifying teams per Division REGION — After a one- [email protected] to participate in a statewide year delay, The New England tournament. There are currently Late Model Challenge Cup REGION – The actual com- scheduled to be eight divisions in (NELMCC) is finally debuting position of the high school foot- high school football though their in 2021 — and it will be even ball season is back up in the air exact composition has not been bigger than originally planned. after the Massachusetts Inter- determined. Most other high American-Canadian Tour scholastic Athletic Association school sports will be divided into (ACT) officials confirmed today voted to reconsider its decision five divisions in order to level the that nine tracks have signed up on a format for the 2021-2022 competition throughout the state. for the first season of the series season. One other proposal presented that will pit weekly Late Model Just a few weeks after agree- a few weeks back was to have racers from across the region in ing on a format that would be an eight-week qualifying cam- a summer-long battle for pride, used this fall, the MIAA Board paign, much similar to the exist- glory, and some serious prize of Directors backtracked on the ing format. The only difference money. Submitted photo vote, voting overwhelming in being the fact the playoffs will The inaugural Challenge Alan Ward is one racer who will be trying to compete in the Late favor in a special meeting last be a state tournament instead of a Cup was originally slated for Model Challenge Cup this year. Thursday morning to reconsider four-team sectional, followed by the 2020 season before being 2020. pace with the 2020 pre-pan- its decision. state semifinals. The state finals pushed back a year due to the The increase in tracks also demic numbers, the total point This fall is set to be the first would still be scheduled to take COVID-19 pandemic. The ba- means an increase in the sea- fund could exceed $20,000. A under the new statewide tourna- place after Thanksgiving, and sic format remains the same, son-ending awards. A guaran- minimum prize of $3,000 goes ment format that was voted into Thanksgiving holiday matchups with registered drivers taking teed minimum point fund of to the overall winner. At least effect in early 2020. Unfortu- could still be preserved. their 10 best eligible finishes at $14,000 has been posted for the top-10 drivers in the final nately, Western Massachusetts One thing that would change participating tracks towards the the Challenge Cup. The $100 standings will receive payouts. schools did not have the oppor- are the consolation games that season-long point standings. registration fee for each driver Several big contingency and tunity to have one final sectional occurred among non-playoff However, the scope of the will also be added to the point raffle awards have been posted, tournament before the new tour- teams. The consolation games program has grown tremen- fund in full. For example, if 40 adding even more value to the nament format takes effect. were determined by a committee dously during the one-year hia- drivers sign up for the series, program for racer. A Port City The original vote was to have in the MIAA for Weeks 9 and 10 tus. Nine tracks from four New another $4,000 would be added Chassis by Crazy Horse Racing a nine-week season beginning as a way to bridge the gap for England states have signed up, to the point fund for a total of will be raffled off at season’s Labor Day weekend and go- teams between the eight-week nearly double the amount that $18,000. ing to the first week of Novem- qualifying season and Thanks- were originally registered for ber. There would then be eight Should registration be on Please see RACING, page 12 Please see FOOTBALL, page 12 Page 12 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021 Indoor football team Full slate of Mass Golf signs players for championships return NORTON – Mass Golf is excited to announce the return of a full schedule for Championships and Women’s Championships upcoming season during the 2021 season. While Mass Golf was able to conduct WORCESTER — The Massachusetts Pirates a majority of its events and qualifiers in 2020, this year’s slate have signed offensive lineman Jared Thomas for will also include the return of events canceled last year due to the 2021 season. COVID-19, such as the Massachusetts Open. Thomas (6’3”, 300 lbs.) last played college According to Kevin Eldridge, Mass Golf’s Director of Rules football at Northwestern University. He ap- and Competitions, about 60 championship events, including 18- peared in 51 total games during his four years on hole qualifying rounds, are being scheduled, and they will take the field, including starting all 14 games at cen- place at 63 different Mass Golf Member Clubs. In total, more than ter during his junior and senior seasons. Thomas 4,600 registrations are expected. “This year’s lineup of champi- redshirted as a true freshman at Northwestern in onship events and qualifiers wouldn’t have been possible without 2015. the support and dedication of all our host clubs,” Eldridge said. Some of Thomas’ accomplishments at North- “As we enter into what we plan to be a full season of Mass western include being named 2019 team captain Golf events, we remain committed to maintaining the level of and 2019 All-Big Ten Honorable Mention. care and attention put towards keeping our competitors, volun- The Pirates have also signed offensive line- teers, host club personnel, and staff safe,” said Jesse Menachem, man Dwayne Wallace. Wallace last played in Mass Golf Executive Director/CEO. “Statewide and nationally, The Spring League in November 2020. He also golf was recognized as a safe recreational activity during times played in XFL for the Los Angeles Wildcats in of great restriction and we are confident that we will keep this 2020. positive momentum surrounding the sport going into the 2021 Wallace has garnered professional football season.” Online registrations for 2021 Mass Golf events will begin in experience outside of the Pirates. After going Jackson Duquette gets ready to send a shot away. undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft, Wallace had early March. Additional details surrounding the new registration brief stops in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steel- platform and the registration open dates will be provided in the ers and Chicago Bears. Wallace took part in coming weeks. rookie minicamps for both teams in May 2019. Prior to his professional football career, Wal- lace played college football at three different schools. First, he enrolled at Riverside City Col- lege for his freshman and sophomore seasons. Pioneers to host Pelham clinic He then transferred to the University of Califor- LUDLOW – Western United Pioneers FC is excited to offer a nia at Berkeley for his junior year. soccer clinic in Pelham, MA for players in the Massachusetts In his senior year, he transferred again, this North Region. The clinic provides off-season training and skill time to the University of Kansas. That sea- development by WUP FC coaches. The second sessions available. son, Wallace started 9 games at right guard. This program is offered to boys and girls born in 2010, 2011, He also started a game at right tackle. Follow- 2012, 2013, and 2014. The four-week program includes one prac- ing his college football career, Wallace was tice per week for a total of $65 per session. Sessions will consist a 2019 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl Participant. Photos by David Henry www.sweetdogphotos.com of a max of 15 players per field (COVID regulation for the play- The Massachusetts Pirates are members of the Goalie Colby Marini makes a save for the Falcons. ers’ safety). Indoor Football League (IFL). The Pirates play SESSION 2: MONDAYS 2/22, 3/1, 3/8, and 3/15 all home games at the DCU Center located at from page 11 Boys and Girls Born 2013 and 2014: Session is at 5 p.m. ICE HOCKEY 50 Foster St. Worcester, MA. 01608. For more Boys and Girls Born 2010, 2011, and 2012: Session is at 6 information on the Massachusetts Pirates please Samuel Raco, who scored a total of five goals. He only p.m. call (508) 452-MASS (6277), email contact@ scored four goals as a junior.” The sessions will be held at Pelham Elementary School at 45 masspiratesfootball.com or visit www.masspi- “Sam is a senior and it was nice to see him score Amherst Road, Pelham, MA 01002. ratesfootball.com five goals in the first game of the season,” Bousquet said. “I believe it’s the most goals that he has scored in a varsity hockey game.” Sophomore Tyler Genovese and senior Dominic FOOTBALL from page 11 would have to be done on a local lev- will still be playing in competitive Terzi both recorded hat-tricks for the Falcons in the el,” said Stratton. conferences, which usually consist season opener. Terzi, who recorded his first career hat- giving. Following the reconsideration of five to seven teams. Depending trick as a sophomore against West Springfield, was Now, the MIAA is not planning vote, there was a motion for the on whether the regular season will credited with two assists versus Agawam. to specifically come up with match- nine-week season again, but it was be eight or nine weeks, teams would The duo of sophomore Jackson Duquette (5 as- ups, but one area athletic director, defeated. have to pick up independent games sists) and junior Derek Grout (4 assists) combined for Agawam’s David Stratton, said a Now, the exact regular season against non-conference teams. nine assists in the season opening victory. Sophomore local organization, like the PVIAC, format will have to wait until a fu- Football teams will have an op- David Noel had three assists. could determine non-playoff games ture meeting as the meeting conclud- portunity to play again in the Fall 2 “We did lose five or six seniors from last year’s based on who is not involved in the ed without a new vote on how many season, set for next month. However, team that played defense, so that unit is young and in- tournament. weeks the regular season will be. there will be no playoffs for the Fall experienced,” Bousquet said. “We did return nine for- “If we did non-playoff games, it In Western Massachusetts, teams 2 season. wards and that’s a very strong unit. We shouldn’t have very much trouble offensively this year.” Raco got things rolling in the right direction for the Falcons by knocking home a rebound shot at 2:24 of RACING from page 11 ward them for their efforts,” Michaud example, a Thunder Road Late Model went on. “We’ve come up with a regular can also earn points at White the first period. program that does so and which we Mountain, and a Thompson Speed- Five minutes later, Duquette scored his first goal of end. To qualify for the chassis raffle, the season on a breakaway shot. drivers must register by the deadline think will boost car counts and action way regular can also earn points at throughout the region.” New London-Waterford Speedbowl Minnechaug took a 3-0 lead with 10.3 seconds left and attempt to qualify for at least 10 in the first period following Terzi’s first goal. point-counting events. Four tracks from the original or Monadnock Speedway. 2020 slate will return for the 2021 A driver’s 10 best performanc- The Falcons managed to kill a couple of penalties ARBodies and Five Star Bodies during the first five minutes of the second period -be are each awarding a $500 product debut: Barre, VT’s Thunder Road es across all tracks count towards Speedbowl; North Woodstock, NH’s their NELMCC total. Points will be fore scoring three more goals in a span of two minutes. certificate. Drivers who finish in the Those three goals were scored by junior Gavin We- overall top-10 and have declared they White Mountain Motorsports Park; awarded based on finishing position, Connecticut’s Thompson Speedway car count, and cars passed. The full ichselbaumer, Genovese, and Terzi. are running an AR or Five Star body The goal by Genovese came on a power-play. He will be eligible for these raffles. Motorsports Park; and Massachu- system is available at www.acttour. setts’ Seekonk Speedway. com/NELMCC. would score another power-play goal with 5:57 re- Drivers who register by the ear- maining in the period. ly-entry deadline of March 1 will Five other tracks have joined the Participating tracks are responsi- Challenge Cup. Connecticut’s New ble for reporting results to the ACT Trailing, 7-0, the Brownies were able to end the also be entered into a Hoosier Tire Falcons shutout hopes 26 seconds later. That’s when raffle. Two randomly chosen en- London-Waterford Speedbowl will offices. ACT Late Model Tour events be the second Connecticut track. and “open events” at these tracks are Agawam sophomore Nick Shea put a shot into the trants each receive two free ACT net past Minnechaug senior goalie Corby Marini. The Late Model tires from Hoosier. ACT Furthermore, four tracks from the not eligible for Challenge Cup points. New Hampshire Short Track Racing To register for the New England Brownies only goal was assisted by senior’s Dean will also honor the tire awards of the Kadonaga and Andrew Grasso, who are co-captains. 2020 pre-pandemic raffle winners if Association (NHSTRA) have signed Late Model Challenge Cup, drivers up: Monadnock Speedway, Lee USA must submit the entry form along with “You never want to be shutout in a game,” Rowley they register for this year’s Challenge said. “It was nice to see Nick score his second goal of Cup. Speedway, Hudson Speedway, and a $100 registration fee by Monday, Claremont Speedway. April 5. Entries postmarked by Mon- the season. He has really stepped up for us so far this “This program is a huge step for- season.” ward for weekly Late Model racing Any competitor at the four NHS- day, March 1 will be eligible for the TRA tracks must use the ACT Late Hoosier tire drawing. The entry form Marini would be replaced in goal by sophomore in New England,” ACT managing John Pollard at the start of the third period. partner Cris Michaud said. “The Model rules option the organization and point system outline are avail- has introduced for the 2021 season. able at www.acttour.com/NELMCC Raco would score two more goals during the last Challenge Cup was one of the things five minutes of the second period. He also added two we were most excited about in 2020 In other words, cars need to be 100% and on participating track websites. ACT legal for drivers to earn Chal- For more information, contact the more goals to his score sheet during the final period. before the pandemic. Now, with near- The other two Falcons goals were scored by Terzi ly twice as many tracks on board plus lenge Cup points. ACT offices at (802) 244-6963, me- All weekly Late Model features [email protected], or visit www.act- and Genovese. some great contingency partners, it’s “There isn’t going to be a postseason tournament going to be even bigger for teams and at participating tracks will be eligi- tour.com. You can also get updates on ble for the Challenge Cup. Regis- Facebook and Twitter at @ACTTour. this year,” Bousquet said. “Our main goal this year is fans.” to not lose a game.” “Weekly racers are the backbone tered drivers can earn Challenge Cup of the sport, and it’s important to re- points at any of the nine tracks. For February 11, 2021 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 13

SOLDIERS from page 1 one of the reforms that we have in place. If you hire staff and don’t then make sure they have the This week in recreation skills to do the job, you’re going to have high Erin Carroll, Assistant Director warming to see how many dedicated playing fields and hopefully having turnover.” employees work for the towns and the opportunity to see members of While Sudders said the facility had an ade- What will 2021 bring? Hopefully how dedicated all of our volunteers our great community! Until then, quate number of full-time employees registered more promise of returning to some are. Everyone has worked together stay well! at the onset of the pandemic, they were “not form of the life we all use to lead. with the common goal of doing what Notes: Registration for Com- properly aligned” in order to make the best use As I write this now, we are still a bit we could for the kids and community petitive Baseball (U9 and U11 only) out of staffing capacity. off from “normal” but the Wilbraham members. It makes me think of one will run through February 15th. We Under new leadership, the home has adopted Parks and Recreation Department the wonderful retired WPRD staff anticipate that we will start registra- a permanent clinical staffing structure. To keep (WPRD) is moving full-steam ahead member Merrie Kaye – as she always tions for Rec Baseball, Softball, Girls employees accountable, the facility is being held with spring sports. Our goal is and said, teamwork makes the dream Lacrosse, Track and Field, Tennis and to the gold-star standard created by the Centers has been through this difficult year to work! This year has been a full team more programs in March. for Medicare & Medicaid. try to provide safe and modified pro- effort and we couldn’t have offered Our programs are severely re- “I believe that the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home gram offerings to keep kids engaged, so much without the help of EVERY stricted in size of enrollment due to should be CMS certified. That’s always been my active and social. single person involved. the COVID-19 restrictions. There is position – that we should lean towards that for Even though the past year has had We hope you are excited with all no leeway in the maximum number of many reasons, including the fact that there’s real- more negatives than we want to relive, the positives that look to be head- participants. As always, registration ly no reason why it should not be,” Sudders said. there has also been many positives. A ed our way! Spring, warmer weath- is on a first-come-first-served basis, Sudders doesn’t believe it’s appropriate for major positive WPRD witnessed this er and being outdoors are just a few so if you see a program that you want the board of trustees to create policies and pro- year is how many exceptional people that come to mind. WPRD is excited to take part in, don’t delay registering cedures. Rather, she believes the board should we have in the Wilbraham and Hamp- with the thoughts of kids on the play- for it. review policies and procedures only after they’ve den communities. It has been heart- ground, teams utilizing our gorgeous been written by management at the home, she said. The state now requires that the home be in- spected annually by the Department of Public Health. Infection control policies and procedures Scholarships for volunteerism, community grants offered have also been updated. An October DPH study found that the facility through Wilbraham Community Association is now clean, staff are knowledgeable and well- WILBRAHAM – Over 40 years $1,000 scholarships are available to the community. Grants help fulfill the trained on the use of PPE and infection control ago, town residents founded the Wil- fund any type of academic or vocation- mission by funding projects that help policies, and the operation is largely compliant braham Community Association on the al education in pursuit of a career goal. improve the town. with the CMS survey. basis of volunteer involvement to pro- Applications are also available for The deadline for applications for “That is very important because it gives trans- mote civic pride and enrich our com- grants issued through the Wilbraham scholarships and community grants parency and confidence going forward,” Sudders munity. Community Association. The Asso- is March 31. For further information said. “I do think those kinds of public inspec- The WCA is offering scholarships ciation will offer grants up to $750 to or to request an application, email tions are important. I think that we are on a good to any Wilbraham high school senior hometown nonprofit organizations. [email protected] or call Cate path of reform. I think clarifying the government who has helped our community by The WCA was founded by Wilbra- Duquette at (413) 596-8315. structure for the home is very important.” volunteering in some way. Up to two ham residents to promote and enrich

VACCINE from page 1 Cool said private vaccinations to operate at 40% capacity, he Hampden-Wilbraham Regional now there are concerns about have had “a slow start,” but some announced in a press conference School District and 12 were stu- Super Bowl gatherings that hap- ond dose of the vaccine. Con- are currently administering the on Feb. 4. dents’ household members; four pened over the weekend.” selino said she’d heard of that vaccine. Details about private “Hopefully that will help a lot cases were associated with Wil- Public testing for COVID-19 happening with the Pfizer vac- clinic locations can be found on of businesses in town,” McCool braham & Monson Academy; and the new mass vaccination cine but not the Moderna; the the state’s website, she said. said. “And hopefully (cases) will and 11 were from long-term care site are both currently operation- municipal clinic will carry the continue to trend downward.” facilities in town. al at the Eastfield Mall site, Con- Moderna vaccine, and likely one Businesses expand capaci- Conselino said on Monday “Numbers are decreasing, selino said. The Eastfield Mall produced by Johnson & Johnson ty; case numbers trend lower there were 49 active cases of and it’s the same across the testing site is open daily from 9 in late February or March, if it’s As of Feb. 8, Governor Char- COVID-19 in Wilbraham, which state,” Conselino said. “There a.m. to 3 p.m. authorized by the state for emer- lie Baker allowed businesses she said was “a bit slower” than were 1,300 positives today (re- gency use. and restaurants that were previ- previous weeks. Of those 49 cas- ported in the state), so it was a Health Inspector Lorri Mc- ously limited to 25% capacity es, three were students from the lower day number-wise. But

LESSER from page 1 “He was very committed to I think he did learn a lot. And he Notre Dame football game. ernment that’s going to be ap- his hometown,” Lesser said. really got to be well known in “It was an out-of-body expe- proaching rail and is going to be was president of the Institute of Lesser, who strengthened the state, but it was a really hard rience,” Lesser laughed, recall- approaching mass transit from Politics, which was kind of the his activist bones in high school time. This was the 2010 election ing the passion of the Fighting the standpoint of ‘how can we youth political center at Harvard. fighting to reverse teacher lay- cycle, one of the hardest years Irish faithful. help’ rather than a standpoint of But he didn’t carry himself that offs, admired how Buttigieg for Democrats. Indiana in partic- “It was pretty incredible. It ‘how do we stop it.’ And frankly, way. He is a pretty understated looked for ways to leverage edu- ular was a very interesting state was very cool and I saw firsthand that’s why I think it’s even more guy. He was sort of universally cation and experience to help lift at that time because it was really how much he was, frankly, just urgent that we have our state liked, well known, but not in a their communities. one of the ground zeroes of the beloved in his community.” government do its part, which sort of outlandish or braggado- “I was really drawn to that recession. The Kokomo (Ind.) means that they need a ridership cios way.” because that was really the story auto plant, for example, had laid Lives intersecting again analysis that’s accurate,” he said. In other words, kind of cool? I identified with, so we became off significant numbers of peo- Before the game, Lesser, “The Baker administration “It was very much a kind of friendly and we kept in touch,” ple. You had a significant auto staying at Buttigieg’s place, needs to make rail a bigger pri- quiet charisma,” Lesser said. Lesser said. industry in Indiana that was very came downstairs while Buttigieg ority and they’ve got to do this When they met, Lesser found “He graduated, of course, and hard hit by the recession.” was dealing with – wait for it – a improved demand analysis and out the accomplished senior was I was still in school and whenev- Buttigieg’s opponent in that transportation issue. they need to do a full environ- humble enough to offer friend- er he was back in Cambridge or race for treasurer, Richard Mour- “He was on the phone with mental analysis of what the ben- ship to the newbies. back on campus, we would try to dock, went on to oppose the his DPW about issues that had efits would be. So, I don’t want “And he had a reputation as meet up and we kept in touch.” Obama administration’s bailout happened overnight,” Lesser to let the state off the hook be- being a really sincere and really When Buttigieg lived in Chi- of the auto industry during the said. cause the Baker administration brilliant person and very com- cago, Obama’s home base, Less- recession. “It was like first thing in the needs to do its part to really pri- mitted to his hometown even er and Buttigieg would spend “I mean, he was actually su- morning, he was on the line with oritize this project and get those then,” Lesser said. time whenever the campaign ing to block the Obama auto res- this DPW head and now he’s ridership estimates where they “I remember actually the made a weekly stop in the Windy cue at the time and really hurting dealing with a lot of the same need to be. first time we met, we met up for City so then-candidate Obama his own state, which had tens of issues – just on a bigger scale.” “That being said, we have something that was called ‘brain could spend a weekend with his thousands of jobs tied up in the Speaking of, Lesser can’t really a united front now feder- break,’ when they would put out family. auto industry,” Lesser said. guarantee that Buttigieg can help ally that we haven’t had in a very snacks in the dining hall in the “About once a week, we “And (Buttigieg) really move the needle on the East- long time. President Biden, all middle of the night, like around would end up back in Chicago, helped elevate that issue and West Rail project, which is now the way through his vice pres- midnight. People would take and Pete and I fell into a bit of a bring that to the forefront.” largely in the hands of MassDOT, ident, through his secretary of breaks from studying or from routine of hanging out on Satur- Not long after that, Buttigieg including a second look at what transportation, are now going to the library and they would go days and on Sundays and then I made a life-changing decision. the plan’s supporters, includ- be looking at a project like this. to the dining hall to get these went to work at the White House, “He was approached by com- ing Lesser, Rep. Jake Oliveira, And Pete knows about this proj- snacks. And I remember meeting and I remember him talking to munity leaders in his hometown Sen. Anne Gobi, and Rep. Todd ect because I’ve talked to him up with him and I was just a kid me about the house he was pre- in South Bend and I remem- Smola, say is a gross underesti- about it over the years. So he’s from Longmeadow who found paring to buy in South Bend, ber him calling me and saying, mate of projected ridership. But not going to be looking at it com- myself at Harvard and we met up the work he was doing there. I ‘you know, I’m thinking about federal advocacy and funding is pletely new.” at the brain break and we chat- remember he called me one day running for mayor’ and I said essential. Having an influential And if it comes to fruition ted. It was clear pretty quickly and said that he was going to be ‘cool – that sounds great.’ And friend who also happens to be a during the Biden administration, that he was a really unique talent running for state treasurer of In- of course, he won.” fan of public transportation and the friendship between a small and a unique person.” diana and I thought that was a While Buttigieg was settling infrastructure renewal can’t hurt. town intellectual from Indiana One of the first things they great idea. in as mayor of that well-known “We’ll certainly be talking to and another from Western Mass. bonded over was embracing “Unfortunately, that cam- college town, Lesser paid a visit him,” Lesser said. could be partly to thank for it. their roots. paign didn’t go as planned. But and the two took in Lesser’s first “Now we have a federal gov- Page 14 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021

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GREYHOUND OPTIONS INC. CALL MARY AT 413-566-3129 OR CLAIRE AT 413-967-9088 OR GO TO ALL REAL ESTATE advertised WWW.GREYHOUND herein is subject to the Federal Fair OPTIONS.ORG Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, col- or, religion, sex, handicap, familial sta- tus, or national origin, or intention to is looking for individuals DEVEREUX make any such preference, limitation, who are interested in becoming foster or discrimination.” We will not knowing- parents. We are looking for individuals ly accept any advertising for real estate who are caring and would be able to which is in violation of the law. All per- provide a stable and caring home for sons are hereby informed that all youth who have experienced abuse or dwellings advertised are available on neglect in their lives. Devereux pro- an equal opportunity basis. vides free training and ongoing staff support. For more information call Maureen at (413)209-7677 mben- [email protected] or Janet at VACATION (508)713-3895 jknapp@devere- RENTALS ux.org WARM WEATHER IS Year Round PODIATRY OFFICE 25 to 30 hours In Aruba. The water is safe, and the a week. Portuguese or Spanish speak- dining is fantastic. Walk out to the ing helpful. Medical and computer beach. 3-Bedroom weeks available. experience helpful but willing to train Sleeps 8. Email: [email protected] the right person. Ludlow (413)589- for more information. 7287 or email CV to [email protected] FOR RENT Classified All real estate advertising in this Advertising newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, DEADLINES limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status (number of children and or pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, QUABBIN & age, marital status, or any intention to make any such preference, limitation or SUBURBAN discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept FRIDAY any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby AT NOON informed that all dwellings advertising in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain about discrimination call The Department of HILLTOWNS Housing and Urban Development “ HUD” toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. For the N.E. MONDAY area, call HUD at 617-565-5308. The toll free number for the hearing impaired is AT NOON 1-800-927-9275. PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE tion of Brett Castellano for a Portions of the proposed work Protection Act and the Hampden Probate and This ad is pursuant to MA Special Permit/Variance as fall within the buffer zone to Wilbraham Wetlands By-Law Family Court Gen. Law Ch.255, Sec. 39A PUBLIC NOTICE required under Section 7, wetland resource areas on the for the proposed construction 50 State Street as of February 26, 2021 the This ad is pursuant to MA Table 7.2, and 7.3 of the property located at 644 of a single family home, pri- Springfield, MA 01103 following motor vehicles will Gen. Law Ch.255, Sec. 39A Hampden Zoning Bylaw to Tinkham Road. A Natural vate sanitary sewage disposal (413)748-7758 be for sale to satisfy a garage as of February 26, 2021 the allow the placement of a Heritage and Endangered system, driveway, culverts, Docket No. HD21C0016CA keepers lien: following motor vehicles will detached accessory building Species project review request and associated grading. In the matter of: 2006 Jeep Liberty be for sale to satisfy a garage (12 ft. by 24 ft. shed) on the has been submitted concur- Portions of the proposed work Patricia Stephanie Hembdt keepers lien: property located at 22 rently with this Notice of fall within the buffer zone to CITATION ON PETITION VIN: 1J4GL48K56W163102 COLOR: Green Vehicle: 2009 Kawasaki Mohawk Drive owned by Intent. Due to the ongoing wetland resource areas on the TO CHANGE NAME LKO: Nicole Fraska VN900D Brett and Alison Castellano. Covid-19 public health emer- property located at 650 A Petition to Change PO Box 1214 Color: Blue The petition and related gency the Town Office Tinkham Road. A Natural Name of Adult has been filed Warren MA 01083 VIN: JKAVN2D119A029062 materials are on file in the Building remains closed to the Heritage and Endangered by Patricia Stephanie LKO: Robert Trempe Town Clerk’s office and may public and this public meeting Species project review request Hembdt of Hampden, MA 2005 Acura TL 109 River Rd be viewed during normal will be conducted exclusively has been submitted concur- requesting that the court enter VIN: 19UUA66295A074871 Ware MA 01082 business hours. via remote participation. The rently with this Notice of a Decree changing their name COLOR: Blue For the Board, instructions to remotely join Intent. Due to the ongoing to: LKO: Adolfo Sandoval Vehicle: 2008 Honda Accord L. Jed Berliner, Chair and participate in the public Covid-19 public health emer- Lucretia Stephanie Hembdt 304 Washington St 1L Color: Black 02/04, 02/11/2021 meeting will be on the agenda gency the Town Office IMPORTANT NOTICE Haverhill MA 01832 VIN: 1HGCP25718A014314 that will be posted on the town Building remains closed to the Any person may appear for LKO: Michael Nieves 2008 Mercedes L300 Sedan website on or before February public and this public meeting purposes of objecting to the 148 Mill St Apt.1 LEGAL NOTICE 18, 2021. Further information will be conducted exclusively petition by filing an appear- VIN: WDDGF81X88F139928 Springfield MA 01108 Town of Wilbraham relating to this application is via remote participation. The ance at: Hampden Probate COLOR: Black LKO: Jennifer Torres R & S Assoc. Inc. The Wilbraham on file with the Commission. instructions to remotely join and Family Court before 46 Olmsted Dr. Wilbraham MA Conservation Commission Christopher Brown, Chairman and participate in the public 10:00 a.m. on the return day Springfield MA 01108 413-596-4374 will hold a public hearing on 02/11/2021 meeting will be on the agenda of 02/23/2021. 02/11, 02/18, 02/25/2021 Monday, February 22, 2021 that will be posted on the town This is NOT a hearing 2014 BMW 5 Series at 5:00 PM on the Notice of website on or before February date, but a deadline by which VIN:WBA5B3C57ED530181 Intent filed by Michael LEGAL NOTICE 18, 2021.Further information you must file a written appear- COLOR: Black Angelica under the Town of Wilbraham relating to this application is ance if you object to this pro- LKO: Zachary D Allen Notice of Public Hearing Town of Hampden Massachusetts Wetlands The Wilbraham on file with the Commission. ceeding. 173 Merrimack St The Hampden Zoning Protection Act and the Conservation Commission Christopher Brown, Chairman WITNESS, Hon. Barbara Manchester NH 03103-5230 Board of Appeals will hold a Wilbraham Wetlands By-Law will hold a public hearing on 02/11/2021 M Hyland, First Justice of R & S Assoc. Inc. Public Hearing on Tuesday, for the proposed construction Monday, February 22, 2021 this Court. Wilbraham MA February 23, 2021 at 6 PM of a single family home, pri- at 5:15 PM on the Notice of Date: January 26, 2021 413-596-4374 in the Town House, 625 Main vate sanitary sewage disposal Intent filed by Michael Commonwealth of Rosemary A Saccomani 02/11, 02/18, 02/25/2021 Street, Hampden, MA, for system, driveway, culverts, Angelica under the Massachusetts Register of Probate those interested in the peti- and associated grading. Massachusetts Wetlands The Trial Court 02/11/2021 Page 16 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES February 11, 2021 SJB Nursery School enrollment season MMWEC offers LUDLOW – St. John the Bap- from the school’s many offerings: and five. tist School is currently accepting Before & After-School Care, Hot Call the school at (413) 583- scholarships to registrations for Nursery School for Lunch program, Computer, Art, 8550 to learn more and schedule a 2021-2022. Music, and Gym. The school has school tour. As an integral part of St. John the full and half-day programs avail- SJB School…because God cre- Minnechaug High Baptist School, children will benefit able for children ages three, four ated your child to thrive! School seniors LUDLOW – Applications now being accepted for the Join Us For Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Company (MMWEC) scholarship program. WILBRAHAM & MONSON ACADEMY MMWEC is offering four $1,000 scholarships to be awarded to qualifying seniors from Ludlow High School and Minnechaug Regional High School who are plan- TITAN TALKS ning to attend either a two- or four-year college. Scholar- A Virtual Admission Series allowing you to meet faculty, students and ships will be awarded to two students from Ludlow High learn all about WMA programs and community. School, one Minnechaug student from Hampden, and one Minnechaug student from Wilbraham. Students must plan to pursue a degree in disciplines related to engineer- ing, environmental sciences, finance, or accounting. Scholarship awards will be based on several factors, including academic achievement, area of study, and need. TUESDAYFEBRUARY 23 6 PM EST All seniors planning to pursue one of the specified aca- demic areas are encouraged to apply, regardless of their class ranking. MiddleMiddle SchoolSchool To be considered, students must submit all required documents including a letter of recommendation from WEDNESDAYFEBRUARY 24 6 PM EST their guidance counselor and a letter detailing their edu- cational and professional goals. The submission deadline is April 6 and MMWEC will only be accepting electronic applications this year. Application and submission details & STUDENT LIFE will be shared with students via their guidance counsel- ors. THURSDAYFEBRUARY 25 6 PM EST As part of its commitment to the Ludlow, Hampden, and Wilbraham communities, MMWEC has awarded $52,000 in scholarships to help local students defray the cost of higher education since the inception of the schol- arship program in 1998. MMWEC is the joint action agency for public power in Massachusetts, providing a variety of power supply, fi- nancial, risk management and other services to the state’s consumer-owned, municipal utilities. MMWEC is the www.wma.us/titantalks operator and principal owner of the Stony Brook power plant on Moody Street and has been a corporate resident COLLEGE PREPARATORY / GRADES 6 - 12, PG / COEDUCATIONAL / BOARDING & DAY of Ludlow for 43 years. Dream Weddings Start Here

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