“Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.” – Will Rogers

Country JournalDevoted to the Needs of the Hilltowns Becket, Blandford, Chester, Chesterfield, Cummington, Goshen, Huntington, Middlefield, Montgomery, Otis, Plainfield, Russell, Sandisfield, Westhampton, Williamsburg, Worthington

A TURLEY PUBLICATION ❙ www.turley.com

March 11, 2021 ❙ Vol. 42, No. 46 ❙ 75¢ www.countryjournal.turley.com

HAMPSHIRE Budding Business Course failure rates improving

By Peter Spotts

Student failure rates were a major concern at the end of first quarter and with second quarter numbers in, the numbers improved as administration continues to work and find ways to help students. Hampshire Regional Principal Kristen Smidy reported to the School Committee the total number of failed courses in the second quarter was 254, down from 310 in the first quarter at its meeting on Monday, March. 1. However, historically, the second quar- ter has usually had an increase in course

FAILURE, page 13

Becket Select Board member Michael Lavery, left, makes a purchase during the grand opening of Canna Corner from Assistant General WILLIAMSBURG Manager Laurie Glosteron Sunday, March 7. See story on page 10. Photo courtesy of Michael Lavery

WESTHAMPTON Residents inquire about PSC plan STM passes Public Safety Complex By Peter Spotts By Shelby Macri Hampshire Regional High vote Saturday, March 13. will pass this time around. Residents focused on finding out School’s parking lot in their The last time the Safety When the ballot vote why the Helen E. James School lot is After almost three hours cars to participate in a vote Complex Building was was counted and announced the only viable location in town for town voters voted in favor which required a two-third’s brought up to the town it that the building plans a new public safety complex at the of the proposal to construct majority to pass; there were passed the two-thirds vote, passed, Dowling shouted informational meeting hosted by the a new public safety complex 221 yes votes, 69 no votes, but not the ballot vote, in excitement and threw his Owner’s Project Manager Steering at a special town meeting on and one undecided vote Selectboard Chair Philip arms in the air, excited the Committee on Wednesday, March 3. Saturday, March 6. allowing the construction Dowling is hoping that the There were 42 attendees in the Voters packed into plans move on to the ballot plans for the new building COMPLEX, page 12 Zoom call with multiple residents inquiring about the why existing pub- lic safety building sites were ruled out. Resident Jennifer Black was asked WORTHINGTON what reasons ruled out the current Remembering race day five decades later PSC, page 13 HILLTOWNS By Peter Spotts nearly 300 modified snow- Snowmobile Race sanc- “It was a pretty big deal mobiles taking to the snowy tioned by the United States at the time,” said Ned Jalbert, In 1971, the Jones Lot on track in front of 7,000 fans on Snowmobile Association in who was the announcer for Hilltown Voices Old Post Road filled the calm March 6 and 7. the local area, and riders com- the first weekend in March hilltown air with the noise of It was the first Eastern peted for a $10,000 purse. race. “The biggest flaw was supports victims not being able to hear the announcing. You could hear when the sleds weren’t run- By Peter Spotts ning.” People from around the The Southern Hilltowns Domestic region flocked to the town Violence Task Force is launching a for that weekend. Residents, new initiative inspired by the success- like then 11-year-old Bobby ful Prayer Flags campaign they run Dodge, were treated to a once annually this month. in a lifetime experience in Looking to be more inclusive for their own hometown back- people, particularly those who may yard with more people in not be as religious as others, the new town than he’d ever seen in Hilltown Voices outreach project looks Bobby Dodge, left, Ned Jalbert, Jeff Leupold, and Ken Needham gathered for the 50th anniversary of his life. to build on the prayer flags concept the USSA Eastern Snowmobile Races in Worthington. The men gathered with some of their vintage sleds across the street from the Jones Lot, where the 1971 races occurred. Photo by Peter Spotts RACE, page 8 SUPPORT, page 2

Becket...... 10 Cummington...... 3 Obituaries...... 14 Schools & Youth...... 13 Blandford...... 6 Goshen...... 3 Opinion...... 4, 5, 6 Westhampton...... 12 Business Directory...... 12 Hilltowns...... 2, 3 Public Notices...... 14 Williamsburg...... 13 Chester...... 10 Huntington...... 3 Puzzle Page...... 11 Worthington...... 8 Classifieds...... 15, 16 Middlefield...... 10 Russell...... 7 PAGE 6 page 2 Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 HILLTOWNS Donate, don’t toss textiles Relief Fund available to businesses The average US citizen throws re‐used as apparel; 30% of the recov- The Hilltown CDC announced busi- Huntington, Middlefield, Montgomery, away 81 pounds of clothing a year. ered textiles are cut into wiping rags nesses, nonprofits, artists, and farmers in Peru, Plainfield, Russell, Westhampton, Ninety-five percent of those textiles or polishing cloths that are then used the Hilltowns may apply for small grants Williamsburg, Worthington. whether worn or torn can be recycled, in commercial and industrial settings; up to $15,000 for suffering a financial For more information, contact yet only 15% gets donated or recycled. 20% is reprocessed into its basic fiber impact due to COVID-19. Michele Kenney at michelek@hill- The remaining 85% goes to landfills. content. The fibers are then remanu- The grant is open to any busi- towncdc.org The Hilltown Resource factured to create furniture stuffing, ness located in the hilltowns, even if Senator Adam Hinds worked with Management Cooperative reminds res- upholstery, home insulation, automobile the business owner doesn’t live in the Executive Director Dave Christopolis idents that any clothing or household soundproofing, carpet padding, building hilltowns. Grant applications can be to secure $250,000 in the State bud- textile, as long as it is dry and has no materials and various other products. obtained on the Hilltown CDC’s website get to provide additional support for odor, can be reused and recycled. Even Typically, 5% is unusable. If the at www.hilltowncdc.org or by contacting the rural Hilltowns of Massachusetts. if the item is overly worn or out-of- textiles are wet, moldy, or contaminated Michele Kenney, program coordinator, Due to Hind’s advocacy, Hilltown date, do not toss it away. Rather, place with solvents, they are not fit for recy- at [email protected] or 413- CDC received $250,000 to provide it in the Salvation Army bins located at cling and are discarded. 354-1055. much needed financial relief to the each of the HRMC member town trans- In addition to helping reduce the The Hilltown COVID Relief Fund region. Hilltown CDC will administer fer stations. amount of clothing and textile prod- is available to businesses, nonprof- $150,000 of the fund and $100,000 of Residents may also deliver clean ucts going into landfills, there are other its, artists, and farmers in the towns the funding will be administered by the and dry textiles and clothing to dona- environmental benefits to textile reuse of Blandford, Chester, Chesterfield, Greater Shelburne Falls Area Business tion centers and drop-off boxes for and recycling such as reducing pollu- Cummington, Goshen, Granville, Association. Goodwill Industries and the Salvation tion when textiles are incinerated and Army. Acceptable items include mis- reducing the use of chemicals and the matched socks, shoes and gloves, all wastewater used in the manufacturing Hinds leads post-pandemic reimagining clothing and accessories including of new clothing. On Thursday, March 4, State Senator society and Commonwealth.” belts, ties, underwear, purses; and lin- The HRMC asks for hilltown res- Adam G. Hinds (D-Pittsfield) chaired the He added, “The future of work is a ens such as curtains, toss pillows (not idents to do their part and don’t toss first meeting of the newly created Special critical aspect of life to reimagine in a bed pillows, unless new), light com- textiles. For more information on recy- Massachusetts State Senate Committee post-pandemic Commonwealth. We are forters (no heavy quilts), sheets, and cling, visit www.hrmc-ma.org. on Reimagining Massachusetts: Post considering how to re-envision workforce towels. Some animal shelters accept HRMC member Towns include Pandemic Resiliency. The Committee training and supporting workers and busi- old sheets, blankets, pillowcases, bed- Ashfield, Chesterfield, Cummington, will examine weaknesses in areas of nesses alike as remote work has become spreads, and towels for reuse — call Goshen, Huntington, Middlefield, the Commonwealth that were exposed much more common in the past year.” first to check if it’s okay. Plainfield, Westhampton, Williamsburg, due to the pandemic and how to adapt Chaired by Senator Hinds, who also When recycling clothing, 45% is and Worthington. to create a more resilient and equitable serves as the Senate chair of the Joint Commonwealth. Committee on Revenue, was appoint- “We are simultaneously grappling ed by Senate President Karen E. Spilka Phase 2 vaccinations available with the inequalities that COVID has (D-Ashland) to this newly created com- highlighted in terms of health outcomes mittee. The local health departments of tion timeline and it can be found at and economic insecurity, while under- The Committee agreed to conduct Hampshire County are pleased to share www.mass.gov. Both Amherst and standing the changing nature of work, ongoing listening sessions throughout the information about COVID-19 vaccina- Northampton sites have committed to telemedicine, and our downtowns,” Hinds Commonwealth with topical experts and tion clinics in Hampshire County. provide vaccine distribution throughout said. “We all feel the urgency to not mere- regional input. The Committee will work For years, the county been work- all phases of the Commonwealth’s roll- ly recover from COVID, we have a real to release findings and recommendations ing together to establish plans for pub- out plan. Individuals who are eligible to opportunity to create a stronger economy, regularly during the course of its work. lic health emergencies including mass receive the vaccine will be able to regis- dispensing. Strong partnerships, annual ter via a link on the city websites www. exercises, and robust stockpile of sup- amherstcovid19.org or www.northamp- Personal home care training available free plies have proved to be extremely use- tonma.gov/vaccineclinics. ful in current response efforts. Recently, Additional clinics will be sched- The Massachusetts Executive Office phcast. local first responders including police, uled during the coming weeks based of Elder Affairs has officially launched There are two enrollment options for fire, EMS, and dispatchers throughout upon weekly federal and state allotments its free, online Personal Home Care Aide students who use this training. Students Hampshire County were vaccinated. An and will follow the phased guidelines Training for Homemakers. who are new to the field should register effective clinic model to vaccinate mem- as defined by The Department of Public This training is for individuals who with the following join code: LTYBGP bers of the community safely and effi- Health. Eligible individuals can regis- want to work as homemakers, and covers (upper-case letters only) at elderaffairs. ciently has been established. ter online for an appointment. A second the topics and skills necessary to become instructure.com/register and enroll to Although health departments would dose of the Moderna vaccine will be a Homemaker for individuals enrolled complete the entire course, like to offer as many different locations offered on or after 28 days later to any- in the state’s home care program. It Students who are already work in as possible, the COVID-19 vaccine stor- one who receives their first dose at the includes 11 self-paced modules and is home care and are interested in tak- age, handling, administration and report- clinics. If individuals need assistance about 37 hours long. The course can be ing some of the modules as a refresher, ing requirements are significantly more with online registration, please call 413- taken on a laptop or desktop computer, a should register with the following join complex than a traditional flu vaccine 587-1219 for Northampton or 413-259- tablet, or a phone. code: F9BLRB (upper-case letters only) clinic. As a result, all vaccination sites 2425 for Amherst and leave a detailed After students successfully complete at the same link. will serve multiple communities from message. A health department represen- this training, they can print out a cer- This new online course is the step- a region and must meet very specific tative will get respond within two busi- tificate to share with their Home Care pingstone to a career path that includes requirements in order to receive vaccine. ness days. Agency employer. By making this cur- Personal Care Homemaker, Home Health At this time, Hampshire County has two Please note that the vaccine is free riculum accessible to all, EOEA hopes Aide, and other health care professions. regional COVID-19 vaccination clin- to individuals and is being provided to to bring more people into these import- During 2021, EOEA plans to trans- ics in Hampshire County —The Bangs the states by the federal government. ant professions, increase the number of late the online PHCAST Homemaker Community Center, 70 Boltwood Walk, Sites can bill for a small administration homemakers in the workforce, and help Training into both Spanish and Haitian Amherst and The Northampton Senior fee to cover the cost of running clin- alleviate the wait time for consumers Creole. They will also begin the work of Center, 67 Conz Street, Northampton. ic and insurance information will be needing this important service. converting the next level training for PC The Department of Public Health requested. However, no person will be The training can be found at www. Homemaker into the same online format has developed a vaccine distribu- turned away due to lack of insurance. mass.gov/home-care-aide-training- in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole.

SUPPORT from page 1 with written messages from community tiple posts per week with signs people number of people who need help and the them…I had to get really creative with members supporting victims of domestic send it. Posts will begin the week of intensity of people who need help is up.” how to meet with them.” violence. March 22. Signs can be sent in any time Hilltown Safety At Home Domestic Whether it’s parking lots or other “We’re asking people to just write before or after postings start; they will all Violence Advocate Mary Krol said the open locations where it’s safe to meet a message, some uplifting message, in be shared online at some point. beginning of covid shutdowns last March and talk while observing COVID-19 support of healthy relationships or sup- Since the COVID-19 shutdowns was quiet initially, but around May calls safety protocols, Krol said she’s been port survivors of domestic violence,” began almost a full calendar year ago, began to pick up. The biggest issues she finding ways to meet and help people SHDVT Coordinator Monica Moran Moran said the conditions and stress ran into trying to help people was finding during the pandemic. said. “This is for anybody. Some of the caused by the pandemic have ampli- permanent housing, food, and getting “Wherever I could go where I could prayer flags, people who don’t identify fied domestic violence intensity. While them referred into programs for peo- meet them and be outside, having a con- as religious so to speak, might not want COVID-19 doesn’t turn someone into an ple looking to get away from abuse and versation, and helping them I would do,” to participate in that.” abuser, it can make those who already also navigate the issues COVID-19 has she said. “It’s been really hard… We’ve Participation is simple and easy. abuse others even more violent. caused when it comes to meeting in per- been able to provide services and help to Anyone can write a message and take “There’s many people who endure son. a lot of people.” a picture of themselves holding it. If extreme stress and never harm any- “That was the hard part was getting There’s been an ebb and flow of they don’t want to be in the video, they one,” she said. “People who are prone them out of the hotels and into perma- need during the past year, but January can sign it and take a picture of the sign to abuse, it’s gotten more intense and nent housing. That was more so the issue and February are starting to trend up instead. After that, send in the pictures to more common, but if you’re someone in the summer, from like May to proba- again. While she anticipates March will [email protected]. who has the belief system that I’m never bly August, that was the biggest issue,” keep rising, Krol hopes warmer weather “One of the things we try to do as going to harm another person, you’re not Krol said. “For me, I used to be able to in the summer will see the need and calls a task force…we try to create ways that going to start harming someone because go meet them wherever they were with- go down. everybody in the community can be a of covid.” out having to worry too much. Now it’s Anyone who wants someone to talk part of this effort,” Moran said. She added, “What I am hearing from like you can’t got here, you can’t go to to or thinks they may need help can con- Moran said they plan to make mul- Hilltown Safety At Home is that the the courts, you can’t be in the car with tact Krol, call or text, at 413-693-9977. Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 page 3 HILLTOWNS Local groups partner for virtual parent café March 24 The Hilltown Coordinated Family ferent. There will still be opportunities to center, New England Farmworkers, and Centers’ Family Support program is and Community Engagement Council engage with each other and parent educa- It Takes A Village — all of whom will home to the Hilltown Family Center is inviting the community to a virtual tors- and to laugh a little, but participants share some resources and strategies we and many other community programs Parent Café on Wednesday, March 24, at will have to bring their own dinner. have to help take us through the wild ride and services. Its community programs 6 p.m. Many people have “Zoom fatigue”, of parenting. can connect and empower families with Through a collaboration with and that has an effect on physical and New England Farmworkers Council resources, education, and assistance. Hilltown Community Health Centers’ mental health, in and of itself. HCFCEC is a multi- faceted human services agen- It Takes A Village provides postpar- Family Center, Behavioral Health wants to have a convivial and engag- cy dedicated to improving the quality tum support and home visits to families Network, New England Farmworkers, ing evening with conversation and brief of life for people throughout the north- with babies. It hosts the Village Closet, the Gateway Regional School District presentations. Mostly, they want hear east. Among its chief programs are home located in Huntington, a free resource for and It Takes A Village, this is an evening parents’ stories, talk about some coping energy assistance, childcare resources, clothing and toys. devoted to parents. Here is an opportu- strategies and share some local resources emergency shelter, employment and job This program is a collaboration of nity to share stories, learn about some to make parents’ lives a little easier. training and youth programs. Hilltown Community Health Centers’ local resources, and strategies to stay The evening will begin with one Behavioral Health Network is Family Support program, the Behavioral sane during this time. of the Senior Family Partners from a regional provider of comprehensive Health Network, New England In other times, Parent Cafes have Behavioral Health Network. She lives behavioral health services for adults, Farmworkers and It Takes A Village. been a fun night out for parents- com- in the hilltowns and will share a bit of children and families. Among its many To get the Zoom link or for more plete with dinner and childcare and often her journey, along with some things that programs for families are the Intensive information, contact Kim Savery at 413- lively discussion. As with so much of she and others in her organization have Care Coordination and Community 685-3500 or [email protected]. people’s lives that have been impacted by learned. This will be followed by brief Partner programs. Don’t hesitate to contact for the link right COVID-19, this one will look a little dif- “tabletop” chats facilitated by the health Hilltown Community Health before the event. HUNTINGTON Election nomination papers available A PERFECT PAIR HUNTINGTON — The 2021 minimum of 20 signatures of registered Huntington Municipal Election will be voters in Huntington in order to submit held Saturday, May 15. the papers for certification. The following offices will be voted Nomination Papers are current- on at this election: Board of Selectmen, ly available for pick up, by appoint- Town Clerk, Board of Assessors, Board ment only, from the Town Clerk on of Health, Regional School Committee, Wednesday evenings. Please contact Water/Sewer Commissioners, Whiting [email protected] to make an Street Fund Trustee, Huntington Library appointment. The deadline to pick up Trustee, Tree Warden, Moderator, Nomination Papers is Wednesday, March Alphonso P. Pettis Fund Trustee, and 17 at 5 p.m. Constable. The deadline for candidates to sub- If someone is interested in being mit nomination papers to Registrars of a candidate for any of these positions, Voters via the Town Clerk for certifica- they must take out nomination papers. tion of signatures is Wednesday, March Interested candidates will then need a 24, at 5 p.m. NORWICH HILL

The First Congregational Church com to receive the information you will of Huntington reminds everyone even need to participate or send us a message though our physical doors are closed on Facebook. until further notice, we are most defi- Please use the phone numbers nitely open for worship, praise, minis- and email address provided to stay in try, and fellowship. We are an Open and touch or to contact the pastor. You are Affirming Church inviting, welcom- also invited to find us on Facebook at ing, and affirming everyone — seekers, “Norwich Hill” for updates, information, A pair of deer sheds found by the Hilltown Hikers while exploring in Huntington. believers, and wonderers alike — on and spiritual encouragement. For more Submitted photo their journey of faith, to join in 10 a.m. information, please contact 413-667- Zoom Sunday worship. 3935 or 860-798-7771 or firstchurchof- Our reading for the Fourth Sunday [email protected]. of Lent, John 3:14-21, invites us into an CUMMINGTON ancient story to wonder about Grace in the difficult places of our lives. Please remember that we “spring ahead” as we Clarissa Pollard earns Dean’s List turn our clocks one hour forward this Sunday. CUMMINGTON — Clarissa her academic achievements during the The pastor is always available to Pollard was named to the St. Fall 2020 semester. speak with you. If you do not receive Lawrence University’s Dean’s List for our emails and would like to connect with our Zoom worship service and/or fellowship time, please contact Pastor WANTED Carol at firstchurchofhuntington@gmail. PART TIME CHILDREN’S LIBRARIAN RUSSELL PUBLIC LIBRARY 10-13 hours a week GOSHEN Ideal candidate has: strong history working with children, Whalen knowledge and love of children’s literature, Caucus convenes Monday, March 15 a vision for introducing children to literature, Insurance experience creating activities and programming GOSHEN — The 2021 Town Papineau; Board of Health, Chesterfield- Protecting you is our only business. for children and youth, basic computer ability, Caucus will be held on Monday, March Goshen Regional School Committee, Auto dependable and punctual, 15, at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall. All reg- three-year term, Barton Gage; Finance a cheery, welcoming disposition. istered voters are invited to participate. Committee, three-year term, Angela Otis; Home Any town resident may be nominated for Finance Committee, two-year term, cur- Business Send cover letter and resume to: Russell Library Trustees, any of the positions below. rently vacant; Library Trustees, two seats 71 King Street Voters will be asked to wear a mask for three-year terms, Rosemarie Clark Northampton, MA 01060 PO Box 275 Russell, MA 01071. and use hand sanitizer before entering and Miriam Kurland; Planning Board, 413-586-1000 • Fax: 413-585-0401 www.whaleninsurance.com Deadline for receipt is April 2. the town hall. Social distancing and five-year term, Lisa Newman; Planning other safety precautions will be in place. Board, two-year term, currently vacant; The following positions are up for Selectboard, three-year term, Angela nomination and the individuals who cur- Otis; Tilton Farm Supervisors, three one- NOTICE ERRORS: Each advertiser is requested to check their advertisement rently occupy the seats: year terms, Roger Culver, Robert Gross, the first time it appears. This paper will not be responsible for more than one Almoners, three-year term, Kristine and Richard Polwrek; Town Clerk, three- corrected insertion, nor will be liable for any error in an advertisement to a greater Bissell; Assessors, three-year term, Gina year term, Kristen Estelle. extent than the cost of the space occupied by the item in the advertisement. page 4 Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021

OPINION EDITORIAL POLICY GUEST COLUMN Letters to the editor should be 500 words or less in length. We In My Backyard require letter writers to include his or By Ellenor Downer her name, town of residence and home Barre resident called to report he has a telephone number. northern mockingbird and a Carolina We must authenticate Awren visiting his yard. authorship prior to publication. We reserve the right to edit or withhold any submissions deemed to be libelous or contain unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks, defamation of character and offensive language. All unknown or alleged facts and quotations offered by the author need to cite credible, The northern mockingbird is the only LETTER TO THE EDITOR unbiased sources. mockingbird commonly found in North Mail letter to America. They are primarily permanent Country Journal, residents, but birds in the north may move Listen to wildlife biologist not activists 24 Water Street, south short distances during harsh weather. Palmer, MA 01069 On March 2, 2021, I called my Mass. 2002, the humane conibear trap was banned or mail your letter It is about eight to 10 inches long. It is a gray State Senator and asked why he was spon- by our voters and legislatures, who were bird, with a long tail and white underbelly. It to: countryjournal@ soring an anti-fur sale bill in our legislature. deliberately lied to by animal rights extrem- turley.com. has a dark eye line and two white wing bars He replied that selling fur and trapping were ist groups! Our Mass. Division of Fish and and dark wing tips and tail. both inhumane. I then called Mass. Fish and Wildlife biologists were forbidden by state The female lays three to four and some- Wildlife in Dalton. A wildlife biologist told law from explaining that hunting raccoon times up to six greenish to blue gray eggs me that trapping and hunting is a wise use and trapping beaver was “farmer friendly” $12.50 with brown spots. They build the nest in of a natural resources and were supported and prevented disease in our drinking water. Each dense shrub or tree, usually about three to 10 by Mass. Division of Fish and Wildlife biol- We have come to a time when poorly edu- feet above the ground. The male builds most ogist. cated animal rights extremists are trying to of the foundation and the female puts in the I cannot understand why the hunting mismanage our wildlife resource. Instead lining. The nest has a bulky foundation of and cage trapping of raccoon, coyote, bob- of throwing blood on women wearing fur twigs, supporting an open of weeds, grass, cat, fisher, and beaver is inhumane. I believe coats, these extremists are trying to ban the leaves lined with fine material such as root- that selling fur legally taken during the fall sale of fur so it cannot be worn. Digital lets, moss, animal hair or plant down. The and winter could supplement the income of Bill Hardie female incubates the eggs, but both parents outdoors persons during these hard times. ln Russell Photos feed the young. The young leave the nest TURLEY PUBLICATIONS, INC. about 12 days after hatching. Mockingbirds have two to three broods per year. Purchase a photo that GUEST COLUMN recently ran in one of Mockingbirds feed mainly on insects our publications. Go to and berries. It feeds mainly on insects in late newspapers.turley.com/ spring and summer and relies on berries and To Buy a Pair of Shoes fruit in fall and winter. photo-request By Anne Sabo Warner roads were dirt at the time, or more accu- The mockingbird was often captured for ISSN NO. 0747-2471 sale as a pet from the late 1700s to the early rately pure mud — it was spring. Cars of 1900s. As a result, it became scarce along Goshen 1938. I was six years old. I had the day had narrow tires which helped con- much of the northern edge of its range. After always had plenty of clothes because I was siderably to make ruts so deep that cars got Country the stopping of the cage bird trade, mocking- the youngest of four girls. Hand -me-down stuck. After a short distance we were mired birds became common once again. The plant- shoes, however, were usually on their last to the hubcaps. There was much revving and Journal ing of multiflora rose, also known as living legs (excuse the pun) by the time they got rocking and pushing. I huddled in the back The Country Journal (USPS fence, was partly responsible for its spread to me. The pair I wore had lost their stitches seat trying not to cry. Things just got worse, 483-550) is published every and my toes stuck out. One sole was held on so the boys gave up and we left the car and Thursday by Turley Publications, in the northeast as mockingbirds liked the Inc., 24 Water St., Palmer, Mass. berries and used it for nesting sites. by a rubber band. I tried to hide this because hiked back up the hill to phone for help. I’m 01069. Telephone (413) 283- new shoes cost money, and though my par- not sure what the help was, but I suspect it 8393, Fax (413) 289-1977. Belchertown bluebirds ents never shared money problems with us, involved horses. Farmers of the day who had POSTMASTER: Send we certainly knew spending money was horses delighted in hauling automobiles out address changes to Turley A Belchertown woman emailed about Publications, Inc., 24 Water St., bluebirds. She said, “Just this winter, we a big deal. My father had strips of leather of such predicaments. My brother’s friend Palmer, Mass. 01069. have counted as many as nine bluebirds at and a shoemaker’s last, and had soled and no longer offered a ride because it turned once around our feeder and have them in our heeled many a pair of shoes, but mine were out he had borrowed the car and probably PATRICK H. TURLEY yard, gardens and woods at all times of the beyond redemption. What to do. We had a didn’t even have a driver’s license. CEO Sears Roebuck catalog, but it was largely a I don’t remember if my father had a year.” Several people are reporting seeing KEITH TURLEY bluebirds. They are always a welcome sight wish-book. You would have to trace a foot car at the time, but if he did it was used President and in the sunlight, the blue is so vivid. pattern on a piece of paper, walk or get a for necessary things like getting to work ride to the Post Office and buy a money and certainly not for shopping for a pair EDITOR order, walk back to pick them up when they of shoes. We would never have thought to Peter Spotts Carolina wren [email protected] I also have a Carolina wren, which arrived, and — if they didn’t fit — take ask him, but no other offers were coming comes to my feeders regularly. Early this them back to the Post Office and pay return forth. Summer was coming, but we didn’t go STAFF WRITER week, it was eating seeds off the ground. A postage. This was quickly voted down. The barefoot on the farm — too many hazards. Shelby Macri [email protected] bluejay landed on the ground near it. Often, next option was Harry Lapides’ Rolling Dry Besides, we went to church and attended the smaller birds leave when the bluejays Goods. Mr. Lapides traveled the hilltowns in community events, both of which required ADVERTISING SALES come, but not this wren. It held its ground a big green van, stopping by every couple of shoes. And eventually I would need them John Baskin and the bluejay did not chase it away. weeks to see if something was needed. The for school. Finally, my oldest sister, who [email protected] next time he came my father asked about had graduated from high school and got- SOCIAL MEDIA Bird watching shoes for me and Mr. Lapides had a couple ten a job, recruited one of her CCC friends My cat, Rocky, likes to the watch the of pairs in my size. However, they were with a car (Civilian Conservation Corps — birds and squirrels at the feeders. If I ask him what would be nowadays called hightops- created for jobs for young men during the @ Country Journal if he wants to watch the birds, he reaches shoes that came up around the ankles. They Depression), and on her day off they took WEB up for me to pick him up and bring him to were “baby shoes” and I hated them. I was me down below. I don’t remember exactly countryjournal.turley.com the window. This is a morning ritual with afraid to say so, but the look on my face was where, but it was a dusty store lined with us. Today, there was a red squirrel under the enough. My father just shook his head, and shelves full of clothing where a kindly gen- tray feeder. He especially likes to watch the the shoes went back into the big green van. tleman fitted me with a pair of brown leather juncos. Days later my brother asked a friend lace-up low top shoes. I suspect my sister People may report a bird sighting or bird with a car to take us Down Below. Down paid for them. The shoes pleased me greatly. www.turley.com related experience by calling me at 413-967- Below was foreign territory encompassing I wore them every day — only pair I had — Turley Publications, Inc. cannot assume liability for the loss of 3505, leaving a message at extension 100, Williamsburg and points south. We set off and tried to stay out of the mud. I outgrew photographs or other materials emailing [email protected] or edown- one evening down the hill to them in a year. submitted for publication. [email protected] or mailing to Barre Gazette, Webster Brook, taking Hathaway Road, Anne Sabo Warner is a former Goshen Materials will not be returned except upon specific request P.O. Box 448, Barre, MA 01005. which at the time was a shortcut to South resident who currently resides in Enfield, when submitted. Main Street. It was a narrow dirt road, all Connecticut. Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 page 5 OPINION LETTER TO THE EDITOR Sewer history and my time on the board This letter is in response to consistently making new regulations for nance and breaks to the 121-year-old sys- There is plenty of documentation “Highway Dept. works one short,” The both water and sewer. A roughly $190,000 tem are very costly. We have been helped showing our meetings, and this year with Country Journal, March 4. sewer budget for 210 users to support is through the years by the Pioneer Valley a letter from the select board dated March In 1978-79, the town voted to support ridiculous. We have one of, if not the Planning Commission, which has gotten 3, 2020, saying “all boards/committees and build a sewer plant that has been in highest, user rates. With the plant being grants to do upgrades. There has been should only meet if absolutely necessary.” use since then, and it was said at the time 41-years-old, manned seven days a week, roughly $2 million in grants in the last 10 We did meet through emails. that the roughly 210 sewer users could with all the new DEP rules, it is making years, which there is no way 309 water There have been lots of stuff done not support it in the years ahead. It passed it now impossible to keep making these users could afford, along with the thou- through the past years as they would have and completed around 1979-80. It was adjustments with only sewer users paying sands more they want in improvements. seen. So, with that said and with 32 years run under the select board at the time. In for it. As commissioners, we saved on an in, I will be resigning immediately as well 1986, the select board turned it over to the As of now, there is approximately electrical bid of $17,100; we did it for as at least one other commissioner; the Water District Commission to form the $100,000 worth of upgrades to be done. $4,000 and on a piping bid of $21,188, third has yet to decide. It looks like Kathy water-sewer commission. Late in 1986, On the water side, it must be manned for we did it for $4,681.04, with a local elec- and the select board can run the depart- early 1987, all three commissioners quit two hours a day, seven days a week for trician and a local pipe company. So as ment, then they will see what really goes the board. testing. With a water budget of approxi- far as the Chairman of the select board on. They want to slam us in the paper for I was asked to be on the board along mately $125,000 a year and Kathy only saying, “these guys are doing absolutely hearsay, so be it. There could have been with two others, and have been on ever hired for approximately 10 hours a week, nothing,” it’s total hogwash. Had he come a different look at it had the select board since except for three years. Through we are now notified by the select board to us, this could have turned out differ- came to us and not had a private meeting these years many projects have been com- that her hours were increased, and we now ent. We are not the highest paid board without notifying us. pleted. Through the years the Department have to pay a portion of her insurance as members as there are two different depart- Charles Dazelle of Environmental Protection has been well without being notified. All mainte- ments, not just one. Huntington Sewer Commission HILLTOWN HISTORY Wild Irish Workers By Deborah Daniels was likely to be sunup to sundown, 10 hours of hard labor. What were living ’ve been a wild rover, for many conditions like? For building the trans- these years. No nay never, no nay continental railroad, built from 1863 to “Inever, no nay never no more.” So 1869 laying 1,912 miles of track, workers goes the song “The Wild Rover” about lived in canvas camps alongside the track Irish navvies, immigrant laborers. It may or in wooden bunkhouses. So, the Irish be hard to believe but the Hilltowns once workers on the Western Railroad prob- swarmed with Irish rovers. The years ably lived in local housing or in similar leading up to the opening of the Western bunkhouses. Diseases such as dysentery Railroad in Chester in 1841 was home and cholera were common among the to these workers. Who were these Irish transcontinental workers because of poor laborers come to build a railroad in the sanitation. Too often the local stream was Union Pacific Railroad construction workers, Railroad workers shoveling out a cut. woods? both the latrine and bath for workers. taken in 1868. To begin with most of these immi- No records were kept of illnesses due to Online Images grants were driven out of Ireland by pov- poor sanitation at the time. What helped erty and a lack of opportunity to work protect the Irish from water borne dis- or to ever own land in their home coun- ease was drinking boiled tea with meals. try. Immigration records show there were Also protective was the access to fresh 207,381 Irish immigrants who came to food from nearby farms and recent- America in 1831 to 1840 and this fig- ly slaughtered meat. The Hilltowns’ ure jumped to 780,719 from 1841 to good country living paid big dividends 1850. The great potato famine of 1845 keeping workers healthy. Most workers to 1852, where millions of Irish people on the Transcontinental RR had board starved to death was the final calamity included in their paycheck, typically $35 to drive an Irish exodus. This triggered per month, guaranteeing no chance of whole families to leave Ireland, where- an underfed worker. However, meat and as earlier it was mainly single men who water suffered from being transported came to America. They came to find hope great distances. Incidentally the Chinese and a job and for many to send money railroad workers on the Transcontinental back to their families. These men would Railroad brought their own live pigs, have had to have enough money to pay chickens and goats with them to use for steerage passage on a ship to America. meal prep and were paid $27 per month They were unlikely to be well educated without board. Was bringing your own because before 1830 Irish families had to fresh food worth the pay cut? pay to attend school. The national gov- There was a very unfortunate inci- Irish stamps. ernment sponsored schools didn’t come dent of death by prejudice at Duffy’s Cut. about until the 1830s. So here they were, This occurred at a stretch of railroad track Submitted photo by Deborah Daniels 14 to 35-year-olds, alone with no money that was built in 1832 for the Philadelphia in a new world looking for work; clearing and Columbia Railroad. Contractor Philip for the workers bad behavior. Drunk and the land and laying wooden ties was work Duffy hired 57 Irish immigrants to lay disorderly reputations were earned by the they could do. line through densely wooded hills and Irish workers. And here in New England where was ravine west of Philadelphia. Three of the So it was that the wild countryside the labor force to build a railroad when workers died of cholera and were given was tamed with 150 miles of train track. the local population was occupied with a proper burial. Within two months, all It took two years to build without ben- farming? Who wanted to clear trees and 57 were dead of “cholera,” less than two efit of dynamite or machinery beyond move rock and mountain to build a rail- months after their arrival. They were bur- shovels, pickaxes, and ox carts. This St. road for some unknown financial bank- ied in a shallow grave beside the track Patrick’s Day raise a toast to the fine ers? Not the local populace. Never mind without any death certificates issued or labor of these Irish immigrants. Slainte. the basic questions local people had about funeral celebration. After careful research Do you have a memory or historical what is a train and what does it do for us? about this incident much later, human curiosity from the Hilltowns that you’d The railroads needed large numbers of bones were discovered in 2009. Some The Celtic cross commemorating Duffy’s like to share with your neighbors? Send laborers. They offered a steady paycheck. showed evidence of death by trauma. Cut victims in West Laurel Hill Cemetery, PA. your story and photos to countryjour- There was no “Irish Need Not Apply” Amtrak stopped further mass grave exca- [email protected]. sign out front. So, the Irish became prodi- vation citing proximity to the live train buried under every tie on the railroad. gious diggers, earth shifters, tree cutters, track, all on their property. It was theo- Irish workers were valued as top rate, and pickaxe men breaking down rock that rized that local vigilantes murdered the but it was their free time employers had was shoveled onto oxcarts and wheel- rest of the Irish workers because they to worry about. They self-medicated their Corrections policy barrows and hauled away. They carved feared the spread of cholera to their own sore muscles and loneliness with alco- a path through the woods and over riv- townspeople — see photo of the monu- hol. It relieved their suffering. Only it If you notice a factual error in ers under the direction of Major George ment to these Irish workers. Do you think unleashed a host of brawling and intoxi- our pages, please let us know, so Washington Whistler, chief engineer. Was Major Whistler was aware of this trage- cated behavior in the men and boys who that we can set the record straight. it his military background that promoted dy? He was considered the top authority had no family around to be accountable Email information to countryjour- a regimental lifestyle for these rovers? on building railroads and locomotives to. Does it sound like the origins of frat [email protected], or call us at 413- The Irish learned to work very effectively at the time. Did you know he teamed up house mischief? How prepared was the 283-8393. in teams. with his brother-in-law, a fellow engi- town constable to deal with this rowdy Corrections will be printed in These men developed muscles of neer, William Gibbs McNeill on the early behavior? Undoubtedly the railroad con- the same section where the error iron and palms like leather dancing their design of the Western Railroad? There is tractor didn’t want to know about it and originally occurred. shovels through the landscape. Their day an expression that there is an Irishman they certainly didn’t want responsibility page 6 Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 BLANDFORD HONORED CITIZEN Grants open technology accessibility By Mary Kronholm 413-848-2816 or online at whipcityfiber. com/Blandford. BLANDFORD – Select Board Chair In other business, the select board Cara Letendre, clerk Eric McVey and received a notice of rate increase for Town member Tom Ackley reviewed the pur- Counsel KP Law pose of two grants awarded the town for From $190 to $200 an hour. Letendre the express purpose of helping senior citi- said the board would have to “be sure we zens with internet access. have it in the budget.” One grant through Baystate Medical Police Chief Tammy Weidhaas noti- can help eligible, qualified seniors obtain fied the board of three abandoned firearms computers and the other will cover the in the police department’s safe. The fire- $99 fee for homeowners 65 and over. The arms had been in police possession for $99 is the one-time activation fee for tak- some time, years in fact, and Weidhaas ing broadband service. The Council on will trade the firearms in for credit Aging and the Municipal Light Plant will towards ammunition she needs for train- contact residents regarding equipment and ing officers. This is a customary practice the activation fees. McVey asked for there The board reviewed the job descrip- be updates every two weeks. tion for Highway Superintendent and Out of 178 senior-owned homes, approved it with a possible amendment there are 52 not signed up and McVey regarding licenses a successful applicant wanted to be sure the remaining have the must hold. opportunity and that the town can “meet There will be a special town meet- the digital divide.” He praised the out- ing March 22, rescheduled, March 25 reach efforts and asked about meeting the the board will meet with the Finance needs of younger people. He said the town Committee and conduct a budget hearing Selectboard Chair Cara Letendre and proclamation honoree Richard Barnard share has to “Try and take care of both ends of and on March 29 the MLP and finance an elbow bump as she presented him with the public decree. Barnard was honored the spectrum.” team will meet to review broadband for his volunteer work for the town on the Fire Department, the Planning Board, the Anyone interested in signing up for expenses and progress. Union Agricultural and Horticultural Society, aka the Blandford Fair, and his work on the broadband access can still do so by con- The board will meet next Monday, Highway Department. Photo by Mary Kronholm tacting MLP Chair Peter Langmore at March 15, at 6 p.m. OPINION GUEST COLUMNS Cabbage conundrums always feel a bit guilty on St. Patrick’s year. When the first true leaf were on their way to making you might as well call the party over and Day. What kind of Irish girl am I if I appeared, I transplanted the in the heads! plant a cover crop instead. Live and learn. Idon’t particularly like corned beef and seedlings into individual cells GaRden But alas, I began to notice Thankfully, this is not the end of the cabbage? Most of my life I found the meat of six packs and watered with holes in the leaves. The kind story. There were six cabbage transplants too salty and the cabbage… well, too cab- a liquid fertilizer diluted to of holes where you can see a that I couldn’t fit in the raised bed. I plant- bagey. The past couple of years, though, half strength. Bright light but shiny trail. Slugs had found ed them at the end of my broccoli row in in an effort to help my gut microbiome cool temperatures grew stocky my cabbage patch. Sometimes the main garden.Although plagued with replenish itself after too many Lyme anti- plants, and by May 15 they there were even dark gray a few slugs, and even a few bugs, I was biotics, I began taking an interest in fer- were ready to be hardened off. slugs still attached to the able to harvest each head and made my mented foods. Sauerkraut has become one They were installed into the Roberta leaves. Big ones, little ones, first ever batch of sauerkraut, totally just McQuaid of my favorites. garden a week before Memorial Turley yuck! I began hand picking about two gallons worth! As my bounty Publications Last year I met a woman at a Grange Day. Most of the plants went Columnist furiously, every morning at dwindles near winter’s end, I am already talk who had a basement full of sauerkraut into one of my rock-edged sunrise and again just before strategizing this year’s cabbage crop. I am she made herself. Intrigued and always up raised beds. I thought I was so smart. First dark. Things finally began to look up and going to try growing an early variety to try for a homesteading challenge, I decided I installed three-foot hardware cloth to then the aphids (yet more bugs) hit. Did and beat the worst of the bugs. then and there that I was going to grow keep out the bunnies (thugs), then I laid you ever see gray aphids in such an abun- Although still not a fan of corned enough cabbage to fill my basement, too. soaker hoses to and fro, knowing how dance that they look more like a waxy beef, cabbage has surely has found its The only problem was that I never had these beds can bake in the heat and dry coating than individual bugs? Yessiree, place in my palate and in my garden. much success with this vegetable. Sure, out daily. Cabbages aren’t what you would that was my cabbage patch. I think, Happy St. Patrick’s Day! I’ve enjoyed a homegrown head or two, call heat-loving. If that wasn’t enough, I because this set-up of mine only required Roberta McQuaid graduated from the but a cabbage farmer I am not. Thugs, then covered the whole thing with a float- that I turn on the soaker hose and not lift Stockbridge School of Agriculture at the slugs, bugs and cracks, in that particu- ing row cover, anticipating that the cab- the cover and inspect my plants, things got University of Massachusetts. For the last lar order, have always thwarted my best bage looper, the cabbage worm and the way out of control. Had I seen the first few 28 years, she has held the position of staff efforts. Read on to learn about my experi- imported cabbage worm (all bugs) would aphids I could have maybe blown them horticulturalist at Old Sturbridge Village. ences as I went from growing a half dozen visit and demolish my seedlings in no off with a spray of water, or waited until She enjoys growing food as well as flow- cabbage plants to over 30. time. All my bases were covered, literally, evening and sprayed with soap to smother ers. Have a question for her? Email it to I sowed my cabbage seeds indoors and things were going great. The leaves the buggers. But once heads form and the [email protected] with “Gardening off heat the second week of April last began to pucker and curl: the seedlings aphids are within the overlapping leaves, Question” in the subject line. About working while collecting early Social Security benefits

By Russell Gloor FRA-year limit of $50,520 (the SOCIAL they will withhold future bene- limit, so your benefits wouldn’t be affect- earnings limits change annual- SECURITY fits until they recover what you ed. But if you get a raise and exceed Dear Rusty: I will be 65 in August ly). MATTERS owe because you exceeded the the 2022 limit, Social Security will want of this year. If I start drawing Social If you claim Social Security monthly limit. Alternatively, you back $1 for every $3 you exceeded the Security on my 65th birthday, how will to start in August when you are 65, for could request a less severe repayment limit by the FRA-year rate. my Social Security check be affected if the remainder of 2021 you’ll be subject plan, but you would need to negotiate Of course, since the earnings limit I continue working at my full-time job, to a monthly earnings limit of $1,580. that directly with Social Security. goes away when you reach your full and take home $1,380 every two weeks, And if your gross earnings for each Essentially, if you plan to continue retirement age, you might also consid- until I reach my full retirement age?- remaining month in 2021 are more than working full time in 2021, it may be wise er just waiting until your FRA to claim Signed: Working Senior that, and yours would be, then you won’t to simply delay claiming your Social Social Security and completely avoid the Dear Working Senior: Social be entitled to Social Security benefits Security for a while, because you will earnings test. Security has an “earnings test” which for the remaining months of 2021. For end up needing to return any benefits This article is intended for informa- applies to anyone who collects bene- clarity, you would also have the option paid in 2021. You could still claim in tion purposes only and does not repre- fits before they have reached their full to request that the annual limit ($18,960 August and then inform them you will sent legal or financial guidance. It pres- retirement age, or FRA. There is also for 2021) be used instead of the month- exceed the limit; in which case they will ents the opinions and interpretations of a “first-year rule,” which applies when ly limit, but at your earnings level you simply withhold your benefits. But in the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained someone claims benefits mid-year, prior would still be required to repay all of any case, you won’t be eligible for Social and accredited by the National Social to their full retirement age. The first-year your 2021 benefits, using the annual Security benefits in 2021 at the earnings Security Association. NSSA and the rule says that if you exceed a month- limit would require you to repay $1 for level you shared. AMAC Foundation and its staff are not ly limit you aren’t entitled to benefits every $2 you are over the limit. As explained above, your 2022 earn- affiliated with or endorsed by the Social for that month, and that applies for each When you file your income taxes ings limit will be more than the 2021 Security Administration or any other remaining month in the first year, after next year, Social Security will discover limit of $50,520 for those achieving governmental entity. To submit a ques- your benefits start. Then, starting in you exceeded the 2021 earnings limit and FRA, and if you claim benefits to start tion, visit our website (amacfoundation. 2022, you’ll be subject to an annual earn- require you to repay all benefits received in January 2022 that higher annual limit org/programs/social-security-advisory) ings limit. Since you will reach your full in 2021. By “repay,” I mean they will would apply. If you’re still working full or email [email protected]. retirement age in 2022, your annual limit give you an option to repay everything time at the same earnings level, you Russell Gloor is a Social Security that year will be a bit more than the 2021 they paid you in 2021 in a lump sum, or probably will not exceed the 2022 annual advisor for AMAC. Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 page 7 RUSSELL Celebrate spring with a story walk at Noble View Outdoor Center RUSSELL — Celebrate spring by for self-guided story walks until the fol- combining the pleasure of reading a won- lowing Sunday, April 4. Families are derful children’s book aloud, with the joy invited to come at any time during day- of walking together outdoors. light hours to walk the trail and read the The Hilltown Family Center and book at your leisure during that week. The Appalachian Mountain Club invite No registration is required for self-guid- families to a story walk at Noble View ed story walking. Outdoor Center, located at 635 South Please be aware that no restroom Quarter Road in Russell. Pages of “It’s facilities are available at Noble View cur- Spring” will adorn half-mile length of rently. Mac Ross Trail. Simple text and bold, This story walk was generously beautiful paper sculpture convey the funded by a Community Development animal life, plant life, weather, colors, Block Grant through the Town of Chester clothing, and feelings associated with and in collaboration with the volun- the spring season in this book by Linda teers and resources of the Appalachian Glaser. Mountain Club. There is no charge to The hike will conclude at Noble participants for this story walk. View’s 50-mile view vantage point The Hilltown Family Center, located overlooking Westfield and Springfield at 9 Russell Road in Huntington, hous- and beyond. Each registered child will es many of the Hilltown Community receive a book to take home. Participants Health Center’s community programs can walk back to the parking lot and services, and offers an extensive for a total distance just shy of a mile. list of resources for parents, caregivers, Participants should dress for the weather. and families. The Family Center pro- At this time, this trail is not handicapped grams are built around the belief in nur- accessible and is not suitable for stroll- turing strong families, by helping them ers. While AMC Noble View allows pets to strengthen their flexibility and resil- on a leash, pets are not allowed on guid- ience. Programs help families establish ed story walk tours. Rest rooms are not strong social connections and give con- available at this time. crete support in times of need, recogniz- Three walks are offered on Sunday, ing family’s strengths and understand- March 28, at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. ing that being a parent is part natural To register, visit activities.outdoors.org. and part learned. The Family Center Please register for only one guided walk. also helps children connect and relate to Once parents register online, they should their world. For more about the Hilltown contact AMC hike leader nancy@pad- Family Center please visit them on dleforwater.net to register their children. Facebook or at hchcweb.org. The Hilltown Family Center and Appalachian Mountain Club will host a story walk for “It’s They will receive a COVID-19 release Founded in 1876 the mission of the Spring” by Linda Glaser on Sunday, March 28, at Noble View Outdoor Center. that must be signed on behalf of each of Appalachian Mountain Club is to foster Submitted photo the children. Registrants will affirm to the protection, enjoyment, and under- adhering to all AMC Covid-19 protocols standing of the outdoors. They envision of central importance in every person’s four counties that comprise Western including wearing a mask and social dis- a world where our natural resources are life. The AMC’s Western Massachusetts Massachusetts: Berkshire, Franklin, tancing. healthy, loved, and always protected, Chapter carries out the AMC mission Hampshire, and Hampden. For more “It’s Spring” will remain on the trail and where the outdoors occupies a place in the geographic region defined by the information, www.amc-wma.org. Ice fishing at Woronoco Heights Outdoor Adventures March 20 RUSSELL —Weather permit- tournaments. Rounding out the day’s ting on Saturday, March 20, the maple activities guests can fly a kite “up to the tree sap should once again be flowing highest heights” and scavenge around for for the Woronoco Heights Outdoor select items in the scavenger hunt bingo Adventures at the Horace A. Moses game. Scout Reservation in Russell. Those who successfully find their Chuck Andrews and his family will assigned items and make BINGO will be be throwing open the doors to their Top eligible to win a WHOA t-shirt as well. O’ The Hill maple sugar house and offer- Due to the ongoing COVID-19 ing tours of their facility, maple syrup, restrictions the registration cost for all and treats for the WHOA visitors. Other these activities remains at $10 per per- anticipated events include the reopening son, regardless of age. The Feb. 20 activ- of the hugely popular tomahawk range ities all commence at 9 a.m. and end at and, ice permitting, WHOA’s ice fishing 3 p.m. Regarding the COVID-19 regula- staff will be on hand to aid participants tions, Santos-Izyk advises all participants in not letting “the big ones” get away. and WHOA staff that various modifica- Fishing Director Craig Mannix and his tions to the usual WHOA programs are crew will have on hand all the necessary still in place. tools and “pop-ups” for a successful day Participants will be required to pre- of ice fishing on the lake. register and prepay on-line at; www. In the areas between the Maple wmascouting.org/WHOA202101. No Sugar House and ice fishing, WHOA walk-ins or onsite registrations will be visitors will find a plethora of additional permitted. Additionally, registrations will adventures to try. Snowshoeing will be at be limited, and participants may be asked the Manor House, once the summer res- to assemble into groups of 12 or fewer idence of the camp’s benefactor Horace individuals. Typical social distancing will A. Moses. Those seeking other challeng- be practiced with mandatory face cover- es may learn how to land navigate the ings required at all times whether outside old-fashioned way through the WHOA “evil hides.” Guests may also bang out Santos-Izyk reports there are activities or in enclosed areas. compass courses or jump back to the their week’s frustrations pounding out a available for people wanting to test their A full list of WHOA’s COVID-19 present and explore the demanding geo- useful project from red hot steel in the brains with WHOA’s escape room chal- modifications is available on its website cache course and try finding the camp’s blacksmith shop. WHOA Director Mia lenges or even participate in magic card at www.wmascouting.org/WHOA. Spring into action at the library and find a good book to read RUSSELL — Spring is here when are “Home Run” by Robert Burleigh, the sounds of a cracking bat, the songs “And The Bullfrogs Sing” by David L. of a bullfrog, the laughter of reading Harrison, along with “The Bippolo Seed silly words, and the sounds of a cheer- and Other Stories” written by Dr. Seuss. ing crowd can be heard and found in Spring into action and find the book that the Russell Public Library’s selection fits best. of books displayed in the Children’s The library is open at its regular The Russell Public Library is equipped with a variety of great reads to welcome the arrival Library. hours, or call 413-862-6221 to arrange a of spring. Submitted photo Some of the selection choices curbside pickup. page 8 Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 WORTHINGTON

RACE from page 1 “My mom dropped me off. I had $5 job opportunity found the two men in the ing Chaparral sleds because the next track turned into a mud field and part of and it costs $3 to get in,” Dodge said. same cab for A&R Trucking; time filling year they made a sled inspired by Al and it was eaten away a by the brook. With “I bought a boss cap patch. My mom chatter about hobbies revealed a common Bobby Unser,” Leupold said. thousands of reservations, hotel book- picked me up at 2 [p.m.] and I just want- passion with a shared root. The event itself had a couple major ings, and high anticipation for the big ed to stay all day…I was just a kid, but Fifty years after the races, Dodge, scares leading up to the race before it event, Jalbert remembers helping truck you remember it was a big thing.” Jalbert, and Leupold gathered with Ken could even happen. Laconia New in ice and snow to lay down and create Jeff Leupold made the trip up to the Needham at Tom Brisson’s Stony Acre Hampshire had a USSA scheduled race the track, with a little help from Mother races when he was 13 with his father and Farm on 105 on Feb. 14, Nature who delivered a blizzard in time brothers in a 1966 Mustang, which he Old Post but moved for the race as well. still owns today, from West Brookfield. Road, across it to March “You could see guys down here The races helped foster a lifelong passion the street from “My mom dropped me off. 6. However, throwing snow and pounding at it,” for snowmobile racing and collecting the Jones I had $5 and it costs $3 to get in. USSA rules Jalbert said. with Leupold’s collection today number- Lot. The men did not allow Drivers came in early in the morning ing about 130 sleds — including one that wanted to I bought a boss cap patch. competitions on Saturday, March 6, for registration ran the snows of Worthington in 1971 remember within 150 with inspection at 10:45 a.m. Qualifying — and the memories he still cherishes to that iconic My mom picked me up at 2 [p.m.] miles of each heats for the quarterfinals and beyond this day. weekend five and I just wanted to stay all day… other, and took place on Sunday. First place win- “I remember being a little kid and decades ago Worthington ners received $1,100 at that time, with there was a Polaris that came around the to the day as I was just a kid, but you remember was only 134 second place receiving $500, third place track and it hit a bump and went up in the the anniversa- it was a big thing.” miles away. $250, and fourth $150. The awards were air,” Leupold said. “I remember my dad ry aligned on “The presented at the Drummer’s Club in grabbing me…and that the sled crashed. the same two – Bobby Dodge USSA looked town. It was trashed.” days of the into it. Looking at the Jones Lot today, the “There was no protection, no hay week as the Worthington reunion saw the field has stayed quite bales, nothing,” Dodge added. “If they original races. had it first,” similar to the track they remember 50 crashed, you better get out of the way.” “This is a huge part of my youth,” Jalbert said. “There were other races years ago. Dodge, who now resides in Windsor, said Dodge. “Jeff and I became best competing against it [for that weekend].” “It’s exactly the same contour as and Leupold didn’t know each other back friends through snowmobiles.” The week before the race the town back then,” Dodge said as he looked out then. It wasn’t until 2002, when a chance “This whole thing got me collect- was hit by a “super thaw.” The snow at the field.

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A 1971 Arctic Cat Panther sled.

Tom Brisson, left, of Stony Acre Farm graciously hosted the small snowmobile reunion. Pictured, from left, are Brisson, Bobby Dodge, Ned Jalbert, Ken Needham, and Jeff Leupold. Photos by Peter Spotts

A replica made of the poster advertising the races. A 1972 Ski-Doo Elan. A 1971 Chaparral Executive.

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There its newest storefront with the grand open- opening day. people make a purchase at Canna Corner. was a period of time in this country ing of the marijuana retail dispensary “They are a small boutique canna- The certificate doesn’t go both ways as where alcohol was not permitted, during Canna Corner on Sunday, March 7. bis store, but they have most of what there are laws regulating cannabis and its the prohibition era,” Lavery said. “I think The dispensary is located on 3235 the connoisseur would be looking for,” sales prices, but it helps to bring atten- that the last 40 or 50 years was an era Main Street in Becket next to two other Lavery said. “I would like to see any tion to the rest of the businesses. where marijuana or cannabis was not businesses owned by local business small business thrive in town, and that Canna Corner is the first neigh- permitted and now it is again.” owner Heather Anello. Anello said one of includes cannabis businesses.” borhood dispensary in the Berkshires; Anello and Lavery believe Canna the main reasons for opening the dispen- Not only does the dispensary bring Anello is proud of this fact and believes Corner will prosper in the area it’s in and sary was to help bring attention and cus- potential clientele, but it’s an industry the business will see a steady flow of the clientele in the area. The shop is open tomer around her two other businesses that is expected to grow in the future. It customers now that it’s open. She 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day and patrons in town — the Route 8 Pub and Becket is also an industry that Anello is already believes people from surrounding towns have to be 21 years or older with a legal Liquors. The liquor store only serves involved in; she runs Spencer House will also visit Canna Corner as it’s the Massachusetts ID to enter and purchase alcohol and will be selling cigarettes LLC as her license holding company that only retail dispensary open in the hill- products. soon after gaining the appropriate licens- holds a provisional license in Chester for towns at this time. Anello reminds patrons no can- es, and both establishments went through manufacturing and cultivation for Grow Lavery said the dispensary provide nabis items are allowed in the Route 8 a name change after being closed in Chester. The construction of two build- the town with a 3% community tax that Pub or the Becket Liquor Store, as all August due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ings at 133 and 126 Middlefield Road in can be used as the town sees fit. Lavery cannabis items are required to be fully Anello said she expected to be busy Chester is on track and Anello is looking has a medical marijuana card and made packaged and safely stored in a vehicle and was happy with the amount of peo- forward to the progress of that project. a small purchase of CBD gummies in before entering another business. This is ple that came out. Anello is expecting warm weather a way to support the new business. The in accordance with cannabis laws in the “It was successful, wonderful, it was coming with spring and the additional only potential problem he foresees for state and Anello is dedicated to keeping a exactly what we were expecting,” Anello residents who come up for the summer the business is an increase in customers close eye on how her business and clients said. “My staff did well as some of them will only add to the business at Canna possibly resulting in proper security to operate to ensure safety and wellness have experience and some didn’t, but we Corner and her other businesses. She is manage the line and front area. He added for her business, her customers, and her met our mark well before three like we following the strict laws and guidelines this problem would be a good problem in community. Community Preservation funding MIDDLEFIELD hearing to be held on March 17 Rabies clinic open to all March 20 BECKET — A public hearing will to turn around at the end of the trail and MIDDLEFIELD — All Hilltown certificate will be mailed to the owner. be held on Wednesday, March 17, at 6 Community Preservation funding could dogs and cats are welcome to the Middlefield dog licenses will also be p.m. via Zoom to discuss Community provide $10,000 for the project. Middlefield/Chester Rabies Clinic on available. Preservation funding for fiscal 2022, The other two projects up for dis- Saturday, March 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. This will be held outside as a drive- including the extension of a commonly cussion at the hearing are $21,887 for at the Middlefield Town Hall on 188 up event. Everyone will remain in their used trail in town. insulation and window insert project at Skyline Trail in Middlefield. cars until directed otherwise. Masks are Selectman Michael Lavery has the Becket Arts Venter and $100,000 for Dr. Sherry Holt will be the veteri- required and social distancing will be plans to modify a commonly walked repairs to the Congregational Church narian. Please bring the current rabies enforced. trail in town — the area is a part of Belfry. certificate if possible. Shots will be $20 Any questions may be directed to Jacob’s Ladder where the trail goes For a copy of the warrant and per pet. Please bring a self-addressed Middlefield/Chester Animal Control at straight back with a dead end — into the Zoom meeting login information for the stamped envelope and the new rabies 413-354-0975. Esau’s Heel Trail. Lavery wants to add March 17 hearing, visit www.townof- a loop at the end so people don’t have becket.org. MIDDLEFIELD SENIOR CENTER Local student makes Dean’s List Lunch is served at the Senior Center, message at 413-623-9990 the Monday BECKET — Samuel Polastri was Construction Management: Design & 169 Skyline Trail, Middlefield, each before. Pick-up and delivery are avail- named to the Dean’s list for the Fall Building. The dean’s list is a recogni- Wednesday at noon. able. The menu on Wednesday, March 2020 semester at the State University of tion of students who enrolled in six or A $3 donation is suggested. 17, is savory corned beef, steamed cab- New York Delhi. more credits and earned a 3.5 or higher Reservations should be made, and meal bage and carrots, boiled red bliss pota- Polastri is pursuing a degree in grade-point average for the semester. choice stated, by calling and leaving a toes, rye bread, and leprechaun cake. CHESTER Academic honor Chester Theatre announces summer schedule CHESTER — Chester Theatre place from June 16 through June 27. a polite clash in perspectives explodes earned at BC Company is bringing its 2021 sea- Eno’s script is bursting with moments into an urgent debate about race, histo- son, dubbed Chester@Hancock, to the that are simultaneously intriguing, ry, and power. CHESTER — Rachel LeBarron of Berkshires this summer. All three pro- amusing, and enigmatic. “Title and Chester received First Honors for the ductions will be staged in a large tent on Deed” stars James Barry, known to CTC “Tiny Beautiful Things” fall 2020 semester at Boston College. the grounds of Hancock Shaker Village. audiences for his work in “The Aliens,” “Tiny Beautiful Things” by Nia LeBarron is a senior Biology major. Guests can dine on site, walk the trails, “The Night Alive,” and “Sister Play.” Vardalos will be directed by Kramer and, for an additional fee, tour the Keira Naughton, who was nominated and take the stage from Aug. 18 through Village, as well at attend performances. for a Berkshire Theatre Critics’ Award Aug. 29. A celebration of the simple This season marks CTC’s 32nd, for 2019’s “Curve of Departure” returns beauty of being human based on the PEOPLE and its sixth under Producing Artistic to direct. “Dear Sugar” column written by Cheryl Director Daniel Elihu Kramer. Strayed, “Tiny Beautiful Things” offers MILESTONE NEWS Co-founded in 1990 by the former “The Niceties” affirmation of love and loss, of pain and Artistic Director of Dublin’s Abbey “The Niceties” by Eleanor Burgess pleasure, of deep loneliness and shared As a free service for our readers, Theatre, Vincent Dowling, CTC has will be performed from July 14 through humanity. It is the story of what people we will print all births, weddings, grown in both scope and reputation in July 25. Zoe, a Black student at an can feel and learn when they open up to engagements, milestone anniversaries, the past three decades. elite liberal arts college, is called into each other, and to hearing answers they major birthdays, military achievements, “After a year in which we and our her white professor’s office to discuss can’t figure out on their own. honors and awards. We have a “people audience were kept apart from each her paper about slavery’s effect on the For more information visit chester- news” form available for you to PEOPLE/MILESTONE NEWS other, I’m beyond excited that we can American Revolution. What begins as theatre.org. submit these listings. This material is As a free service for our readers, we will print all births,offer this season,” said Kramer. “The provided to us by our readers and local weddings, engagements, milestone anniversaries, majorjourney through these three plays is institutions and we do not charge to birthdays, military achievements, honors and awards. Weabout our need to connect with one print this content. have a “people news” form available for you to submit theseanother, how difficult that can be to For more information, or to listings. This material is provided to us by our readers andaccomplish, and the deep satisfaction local institutionssubmit and people we do notor chargemilestone to print news this content. of how we sustain each other when we For morefor theinformation, Country or Journal to submit please people email or milestone succeed.” news forcountryjournal@ the Country Journal turley.com. please email countryjournal@ turley.com. “Title and Deed” “Title and Deed” by Will Eno and directed by Keira Naughton will take Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 page 11

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COMPLEX from page 1 town is one step closer to a better build- ing for the Police and Fire departments. Assistant Fire Chief and Public Safety Complex Building Committee Chair Steve Holt spoke about the need for this new building, including that the current building isn’t up to code and the departments running from them can’t operate correctly in those quarters. The exhaust is trapped in the garage as the fire trucks are started, although the garage does are opened to air out the bay it doesn’t get all traces out. The The Selectboard set up a small area at the corner of the Hampshire Regional Parking lot for the special town meeting on Saturday, March new building has a bigger bay and is 7. Voters attended in their cars and could listen to the discussion over the radio. The meeting culminated with the public safety complex up to code in every aspect; the Police proposal getting approved. Photos by Shelby Macri Department has their own offices and separate garage to safety and correctly store evidence. Additionally, it’d cost the town more money to try to bring the current building up to code and the depart- ments still wouldn’t have enough space needed for the new fire trucks and each department using the space. The new building offers extra office space on the second floor, rooms dedicated to the electric and the water for the building, as well as an Iinformation Technology Department. Some space could be ded- Cars were parked side to side, with no spot left unfilled. icated to the Highway Department later on as well. could ensue. They were concerned about of the project and the state of the town’s For those parked further from the right- Dowling mentioned the 20-year the safety of the two buildings, compli- economics. hand corner of the back lot where the history of this project, and spoke as ance with OSHA and ADA regulations, “We’re ready and prepared for this Selectboard was set up, they were able the Capitol Improvement Planning construction contingency oversight, project, we’ve been preparing since the to broadcast the meeting over a radio Committee Chair about the project water supply, and revenue. last time it was proposed,” Cleary said. station so people could easily hear the being on the capitol plan for years. This These concerns and questions were “This is the best time for us to do this; meeting in their cars. Check-in took lon- project won’t increase the capitol bud- answered by Dowling, Holt, and Fire not only are we ready and able to pay ger than expected, but dedicated volun- get and the town is in a good condition Chief David Antosz, who stepped up to for this project, we need it.” teers helped to speed up the process by to build this complex now, prices are the mic when specific concerns were Other arguments supporting the going down both sides of the cars with at an all-time low and the bids they’ve brought up. Two part-time fire depart- project included that renovations to the meeting agenda and explaining the received are good for 90 days, so they ment employees spoke about the lack of existing structures are not cost saving, ballot cards. need to get started to make the planned safety and space in the current building construction costs expected to increase Ultimately, voters supported of the timeline happen. For the feasibility and how a new space is needed for the or be more expensive if done later, cur- project, allowing the town to go one step study, the design, and the bid the cost is safety of those who protect the town. rent safety concerns, trimmed down closer to actually building a new com- nearly $300,000 and construction is esti- They asked the people to allow the new design, and the timing of the project. plex. While there was excitement for the mated to be $4.2million, and is expected building to go through as it’s an import- The special town meeting was held outcome of the vote, it’s not the end of tto be completed before next winter. ant need. as a drive-up meeting to keep people the line yet. Residents will need to visit A few residents raised concerns Financial Committee Chair Mary safe during the ongoing pandemic. the Town Hall this Saturday, March 13, about the country’s financial standing Cleary also stepped up to the mic to People were asked to wear masks if they from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for the ballot vote, and the economic impact the project address people’s concerns about the cost wished to comment during the meeting. the final hurdle the project must pass. Rev. Down to Earth ad #2:Davis 10/30/12 8:44 AM Page 1 Kings Highway Bridge closes March 15 Send Us Your Photos! WESTHAMPTON — Effective will reopen each evening and weekends March 1, Massachusetts DOT resumed and will be open during snow events construction at the Kings Highway until: Effective Monday, March 15, the [email protected] Bridge. The bridge will be closed week- bridge will be closed for the duration of days from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. The bridge construction; plan for alternate routes. 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FEED • PET SUPPLIES • CLOTHING • COAL WOOD PELLETS • WILD & CAGED BIRDSEED ARCHITECT POOL SUPPLIES • MOTOR OILS • FENCING LAWN & GARDEN SUPPLIES • FERTILIZER Paul’s JEFFREY SCOTT PENN Contact John Baskin GATEWAY FARM & PET Plumbing & Heating 77 Worthington Road, Huntington, MA 01050 Tel. 413w-667-5230 to advertise at fax. 413-667-3082 Email: [email protected] 413-695-4901 59 RUSSELL ROAD, HUNTINGTON, MA 01050 238-0303 or email: M-F 8am-5pm new construction, renovation, • [email protected] 1-413-667-2279 Sat. 8am-4pm PAUL GRAHAM historic preservation TARA GRENIER • PAUL GRENIER Mass. License 23299 Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 page 13 WILLIAMSBURG Caucus meets Saturday, March 13 for nominations WILLIAMSBURG — The Annual tions are three-year terms unless oth- Peters; Local School Committee, quick event. In order to keep everyone Town Caucus will be held on Saturday, erwise stated. The positions include: Marissa Nya; Moderator, one- safe, it will be held in the largest bay March 13 at 1 p.m. at the Highway Assessors, Denise Banister; Board of year term, Paul Rudof; Recreation of the Highway Garage, chairs will Garage, 24 Main Street. The purpose Health, Gordon Luce; Board of Library Commission, Collin Black; Regional be placed six feet apart and the bays of the Caucus is to nominate the names Trustees, Joan Coryat and Ken Borden; School Committee, Paul Kennedy; will be left open to the outside. Wear of people to run for elected positions Board of Library Trustees, one-year Board of Selectmen, William Sayre; clothes appropriate for the outdoors on the May ballot. term, Fred Goodhue; Elector-Oliver Trust Fund/Cemetery Commission, and come nominate the elected offi- The following positions will be on Smith Will, one-year term, Eric Eric Weber; Water/Sewer Commission, cials. The town need s40 people to be on the ballot listed with the per- Cerreta; Finance Committee, Eric Roger Bisbee. reach a quorum, so please come partic- son currently in that seat. All posi- Cerreta, Charles Dudek, and Julia The Caucus traditionally is a fairly ipate in Town Government.

PSC from page 1 lot where the Highway Department is piecemeal…but my personal read of the Nardi. “We are targeting to go out to bid Facebook and other places. housed. Town Meeting a year ago is a consen- in late summer. In order to do that we “Is there consideration of a pub- “Primarily, the site is not quite large sus that’s not what we want to do. The need three to four months after final vote lic meeting that could be outdoors later enough to host another large function funding to look at these three scenarios by the town and approval of the loan to in the spring, or a recorded message on it as well as the driveway not being passed by a pretty generous margin. My finish the design to be put out to bid.” prior to the next meeting to remind all of owned by the town,” OPMSC mem- takeaway from that is the town saying Finance Committee Chairman Paul attendance?” she said. ber Dan Bonham said. “And the pretty this is a problem and we need to look at Wetzel added the town does have a cost Nardi said in addition to Zoom strong belief most of the land there is long term solution.” by doing nothing — it costs $41,000 information meetings, the OPMSC has backfill on a bit of a swamp so structural The committee looked at three annually to heat and insure the HEJ also spent Saturdays at four different stability is unreliable.” options — incorporating some public building, even with minimal people locations around town to engage res- Paul Fenn asked about the possibil- safety functions into the HEJ building, using it. It also currently needs a new idents, share information and answer ity of repairing or renovating the exist- building a separate structure next to roof and other work. questions. ing police and fire stations. OPM Rob the school, or removing the school and In response to questions about “We also have taken all the ques- Todisco explained the issue the town building in its place — ultimately decid- potentially selling the HEJ building to tions asked on the two Facebook com- has is the cost to bring the buildings up ing the cost was too prohibitive for the another contractor for them to renovate munity forums and written up answers to code was not feasible and there isn’t first two options, at $7.5 million and it, the committee said there’s a nonex- to them,” she said. “We have been work- space to expand them to accommodate $6.5 million, respectively. Removing istent market as the building requires ing on this for several decades, but it has trucks and equipment. the James School is estimated at $5.1 more than $2 million just to get up to been a conversation in town and we have “If the committee deems fire station million. code. had active public committee meetings inadequate because of the need for a The committee added it’s also a Heidi Johnson asked if the HEJ for the last six years.” larger parking spot for a bigger truck, favorable time to go out to bid with con- property will work for trucks pulling out The recommendation to remove the has the committee explored options to tractors looking to get projects on the into the road and potential traffic issues. HEJ building and constructing a public park the truck at the big and underuti- books for next year, making this most “Have traffic considerations been safety complex will come before the lized nearby parking lot surrounding the likely the cheapest chance the town will made for when there is a call for the fire town for a vote on Saturday, April 3, at 2 bank?” asked Fenn. get at this project. dept - in regard to the lack of sightline p.m. behind the Anne T. Dunphy School Chairman Jim Ayres said the com- “We feel its beneficial that this proj- for East bound traffic?” she asked. “If and require a two-thirds vote to pass. mittee didn’t look into those avenues as ect gets into that market as soon as pos- Eastbound traffic is stopped by the gen- There will be another informa- it didn’t seem feasible and would require sible,” Todisco said. “If this project were eral store, with trucks barreling down tional session hosted by the OPMSC a private entity to give the town land. approved by town meeting in April, Route 9, it can be a problem.” on Saturday, March 20, at 10 a.m. via He also said the town has a history of we’d be projected to go out to bid by the “I talked to Chief Connell, he said Zoom. For more information and doc- kicking the can down the road, causing summer before the fall and get started actually they do run a truck through uments answering the most frequently issues to stack up and never be fully building before next winter.” there every once in a while, and they’ve asked questions about the project, visit fixed. “We feel for cost it is important never had any issues,” Architect Kevin burgy.org. “A lot of what we’ve done as a town to take advantage of the best interest Chrobak said. There will then be an all-day vote is put duct tape on things…and find a rates and get on a construction firm’s Julia Peters inquired about ways from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. to debt exclude way to get by,” he said. “I think we’re schedule for work to begin in the fall if to get more information out to people the borrowing on Monday, April 19, at at a point where that’s coming back to the town approves us to move forward,” who haven’t attended the informational the Town Offices. That requires a major- bite us… We could do something that’s added Town Administrator Charlene sessions, but are having discussions on ity vote to pass. SCHOOLS & YOUTH FAILURE from page 1 failures — In 2018-19 there were 88 in from Goshen asked Smidy if the failure kids and we can have students come to classes that were reported 11 have recov- the first quarter, 155 in the second quarter; rates are showing a correlation with atten- the building to do their credit recovery ered credits and 15 did not turn in work in 2019-2020 there were 82 in the first dance rates. Smidy said the issue is more because I think motivation is a concern as and one turned in work but didn’t recover quarter and 175 in the second quarter. students are signing into the remote class- well,” Smidy said. credit,” she said. “That data alone is much “I did want to point out that although es, but are not always engaged with the The school was disappointed with the better than our quarter one data, but we’ll our failure rate is still higher than it typ- learning and material. amount of credit recovery options students see.” ically is the, the gap between what we “What we’re finding is that students took advantage of after the first quarter, The school will continue to diligently typically expect and what is happening will log on, but may not be engaged in the but with partial data from the second quar- monitor students’ academic progress as this year is lessening,” Smidy said. “I class content so they may be watching a ter Smidy is encouraged there is promis- more data for the hybrid model comes in think that is due to a number of factors, movie or playing video games or texting ing. and adjust interventions and supports to including like teachers really getting in with their friends or just completely lost,” “We don’t have the data completely help all students to succeed during what the groove of our schedule our model… she said. “It’s the engagement piece for done because teachers still have a little has been a difficult year of learning during So, I think the fact that alone that this is the students that are failing has been chal- time to assess the work, but out of the 27 the pandemic. decreasing a significant but also that it’s lenging.” closer to what we expect is important.” While the failure rates are still higher Smidy also looked at cohort data, but than past years, a decrease in the over- pointed out the school made a shift to all total is encouraging as interventions hybrid learning models during the middle are working and the school continues of the Second quarter, s numbers are not to adjust to help more students. Smidy a complete reflection of the changes. For said current academic interventions will students in the hybrid model, 15% failed a remain in place including accepting course. In the students who opted to con- assignments late, providing clarity for tinue remaining in the remote model the weekly assignments and due dates, credit failure rate was 17.6%, slightly lower than recovery over break, and counseling and the first quarter’s 18% failure rate for the COVID Support check-ins. student body as a whole. Additional interventions being imple- “I don’t have data for quarter one mented included staff supported cred- because we only had one cohort who it recovery over April vacation with an was in person at that time, which was our in-person component available to stu- seventh grade,” Smidy said. “And this is dents; students will be able to earn half also a little bit unclear because as you credit for year-long classes; robust Credit can recall we transitioned to this hybrid recovery options will be available to stu- model partway through the quarter, so it’s dents over the summer and next academic not purely Second quarter because we did year; and full day support offered to most transition a little bit into quarter two, so at-risk students. I just want to make sure that is clear on “I’m hoping that quarter three when those numbers.” there is that bigger sense of urgency will Committee member Paul Marcinek actually have staff on site to support page 14 Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 OBITUARIES DEATH NOTICES Rita R. Bancroft Rita R. Bancroft passed away on Feb. 25, 2021. and Heart to Heart Bible Study at Pepperell Christian She is survived by her husband of 52 years Merrill Fellowship during employment and into retirement. BANCROFT, RITA R. Bancroft of Townsend, beloved sister Janet Mae Filpi, Her many interests included gardening, reading, Died Feb. 25, 2021 two brothers, Frank & the late William Liebenow, and scrapbooking and photography. She sold or gave to Services to be held at later date. extended relatives. friends as gifts many of her scenic photos as enlarge- Rita was born in Cummington, MA, attending ments or stationery. Her family and friends remember GREGSON, SR., STANLEY C. Wahconah Regional High School, graduating with her as generous and creative, who loved all the beauties honors. After receiving her Bachelor of Arts Degree of the Lord’s creation. Died Feb. 26, 2021 in History at Barrington College she attended Rhode Contributions in Rita’s memory may be made Services to be held at later date Island School of Library Science and Fitchburg State to Pepperell Christian Fellowship, P.O. Box 192 College, earning her master’s degree in Education and Pepperell, MA 01463 or at www.pcfchurch.org/ Reading. give. She will be buried in Chesterfield, MA with a Rita worked many years as School Media Director Celebration of Life Service for the immediate family Country Journal in Fitchburg and other schools in Massachusetts. She and friends at a future time. continued this as a volunteer in local public schools and Arrangements entrusted to the McGaffigan Family Obituary Policy the Christian School at the First Baptist Church of West Funeral Home, Pepperell, MA. Please see www.mcgaf- Townsend. She participated in the Women of the Word figanfuneral.com for online memorial. Turley Publications offers two types of obituaries. Stanley C. Gregson Sr. One is a free, brief Death Notice listing the name of deceased, date of death and funeral Stanley C. Gregson Sr. passed away in Gregson in 2001, his father Clyde Gregson in date and place. the hospital on Feb. 26, 2021. He was born 2004, his mother Adeline D, (Assels) Gregson The other is a Paid Obituary, costing $100, on Feb. 23, 1953 in Westfield. He worked at in 2020, and his brother in-law Kenneth which allows families to publish extended death Strathmore Paper Company for 20 years as a “Kenny” Bean in 2021. He is survived by his notice information of their own choice and may paper maker. Stan was a member of the First son Stanley Gregson, Jr. of Wilbraham and include a photograph. Death Notices & Paid Methodist Church in Westfield; he enjoyed his siblings Dorothy G. Mazella and her hus- Obituaries should be submitted through a fishing, collecting, classic tv shows and jokes, band Thomas of Huntington, and Doreen A. funeral home to: [email protected]. He was well known for his distinct brand of Bean of Sun City West, AZ. humor. A service or get together will be held in Exceptions will be made only when the family Sadly, he was predeceased by his sister the future when family travel and current con- provides a death certificate and must be pre-paid. Katherine Nicol in 1993, his ex-wife Joyce ditions allow. He will be loved and missed. PUBLIC NOTICES

Community Outreach to Mortgage Electronic Northwesterly corner of land purchase price must be paid IMPORTANT NOTICE Hampden Division Meeting Registration Systems, Inc., now or formerly of Robert in cash, certified check, bank You have the right to obtain 50 State Street Canna Testing LLC as Mortgagee, as nominee Dunn, formerly of one treasurer’s or cashier’s check a copy of the Petition from the Springfield, MA 01103 Notice is hereby given for Eastern Bank, and now Januskiewicz; thence pro- at the time and place of the Petitioner or at the Court. You (413)748-7758 that Canna Testing LLC will held by Massachusetts ceeding sale by the purchaser. The have a right to object to this Docket No. HD20P1583EA host a Community Outreach Housing Finance Agency, SOUTHERLY along land balance of the purchase price proceeding. To do so, you or Estate of: Meeting to discuss the pro- said mortgage dated March of said Dunn a distance of shall be paid in cash, certi- your attorney must file a writ- Richard S Stomski Jr posed siting of the Marijuana 30, 2006 and recorded in the eighty-four (84) feet, more or fied check, bank treasurer’s ten appearance and objection Also Known As: Independent Testing Lab at Hampshire County Registry less, to an iron pin; thence or cashier’s check within thir- at this Court before: 10:00 Richard S Stomski 241 Route 20, Chester MA of Deeds in Book 8663, proceeding ty (30) days after the date of a.m. on the return day of Date of Death: 01011 in accordance with Page 244, said mortgage WESTERLY along land sale. 04/02/2021. 07/10/2020 Massachusetts Cannabis was assigned from Mortgage now owned by Wade a dis- Other terms to be This is NOT a hearing INFORMAL PROBATE Control Commission’s reg- Electronic Registration tance of two hundred fifteen announced at the sale. date, but a deadline by which PUBLICATION NOTICE ulation 935 CMR 500.00. Systems, Inc., as nomi- (215) feet, more or less, to an Brock & Scott, PLLC you must file a written appear- To all persons interest- The meeting will be held nee for Eastern Bank to iron pin on the Easterly side 1080 Main Street, Suite 200 ance and objection if you ed in the above captioned Thursday, MARCH 18, 2021 Massachusetts Housing of Bliss Street; thence pro- Pawtucket, RI 02860 object to this proceeding. If estate,­ by Petition of Petiti­­ at 6:00PM. Finance Agency by assign- ceeding Attorney for Massachusetts you fail to file a timely written oner Stuart M Caputo of The meeting will be held ment dated August 30, 2018 NORTHERLY along the Housing Finance Agency appearance and objection fol- Worthington, MA a will has on Zoom conference due to and recorded with said Easterly side of Bliss Street Present Holder of the lowed by an affidavit of objec- been admitteed to informal Covid Regulations. Registry of Deeds in Book a distance of eighty-one (81) Mortgage tions within thirty (30) days of probate. Link: 13085, Page 62; for breach feet, more or less, to the 401-217-8701 the return day, action may be Stuart M Caputo of https://us02web.zoom.us/ of the conditions in said mort- stone bound at the place of 03/11, 03/18, 03/25/2021 taken without further notice to Worthington, MA has been j/83852159385?pwd=aVZn- gage and for the purpose of beginning. you. informally appointed as the a0dhUlh2MWd1czgwb3VDW- foreclosing the same will be BEING THE SAME Commonwealth of UNSUPERVISED Personal Representative of WJTQT09 sold at Public Auction on PREMISES conveyed in Massachusetts ADMINISTRATION UNDER the estate to serve without Passcode: Testing April 15, 2021 at 11:00 AM a deed from Ricki Ellen The Trial Court THE MASSACHUSETTS surety on the bond. 03/04, 03/11/2021 Local Time upon the premis- Kantrowitz and Allan Steven Hampden Probate and UNIFORM PROBATE CODE The estate is being es, all and singular the prem- Kantrowitz to Jeremy Hewat Family Court (MUPC) administered under informal Community Outreach ises described in said mort- and Debra Wolohan, dated 50 State Street A Personal Representative procedure by the Personal Meeting for Pudding Hill gage, to wit: March 17, 2006, recorded Springfield, MA 01103 appointed under the MUPC in Representative under the Farm LLC, cannabis cultiva- A tract of land, with with the Hampshire County (413)748-7758 an unsupervised administra- Massachusetts Uniform tion microbusiness. the buildings thereon, Registry of Deeds on March Docket No. HD21 P0401 EA tion is not required to file an Probate Code without super- DATE: March 26, 2021 located on the Easterly 30,2006, at Book 8663, page Estate of: inventory or annual accounts vision by the Court. Inventory TIME: 5:30 pm side of Bliss Street in the 242. Lillian M Howe with the Court. Persons inter- and accounts are not required PLACE: via ZOOM Village of Florence, in said The description of the Date of Death: 02/23/2020 ested in the estate are enti- to be filed with the Court, but DETAILS: Zoom Meeting Northampton, more particu- property contained in the CITATION ON PETITION tled to notice regarding the interested parties are entitled ID 849 808 0166 Zoom larly bounded and described mortgage shall control in the FOR FORMAL administration directly from to notice regarding the admin- passcode AqmMK8 as follows: event of a typographical error ADJUDICATION the Personal Representative istration from the Personal SUBJECT: cannabis culti- Beginning at the in this publication. To all interested persons: and may petition the Court Representative and can peti- vation microbusiness start-up, Northwesterly corner of the For Mortgagor’s Title A Petition for Formal in any matter relating to the tion the Court in any matter 250sf indoor barn operation granted premises at a stone see deed dated March 17, Probate of Will with estate, including the distribu- relating to the estate, includ- LOCATION: Home of bound on the Easterly side of 2006 and recorded in the Appointment of Personal tion of assets and expenses of ing distribution of assets and pudding hill farm, 1 Julius Hall Bliss Street; thence running Hampshire County Registry Representative has been administration. expenses of administration. Road, Blandford, MA EASTERLY along land of Deeds in Book 8663, Page filed by Roger R Howe of WITNESS, Hon. Barbara Interested parties are entitled 03/11/2021 now or formerly of one 242. Westfield, MA requesting M Hyland, First Justice of this to petition the Court to insti- Connors a distance of two TERMS OF SALE: Said that the Court enter a formal Court. tute formal proceedings and NOTICE OF MORTGAGEE’S hundred fifteen (215) feet, premises will be sold and Decree and Order and for Date: March 05, 2021 to obtain orders terminating SALE OF REAL ESTATE more or less, to an iron conveyed subject to all liens, such other relief as requested Rosemary A Saccomani or restricting the powers of Premises: 72 Bliss Street, pin, which iron pin marks encumbrances, unpaid taxes, in the Petition. Register of Probate Personal Representatives Florence (Northampton), MA the Northeasterly corner of tax titles, municipal liens The Petitioner requests 03/11/2021 appointed under informal pro- 01062 the tract herein described, and assessments, if any, that: Roger R Howe of cedure. A copy of the Petition By virtue and in exe- the Southeasterly corner which take precedence over Westfield, MA be appointed Commonwealth of and Will, if any, can be cution of the Power of Sale of said land of Connors, the said mortgage above as Personal Representative(s) Massachusetts obtained from the Petitioner. contained in a certain mort- the Southwesterly cor- described. of said estate to serve Without The Trial Court 03/11/2021 gage given by Jeremy ner of land now or former- FIVE THOUSAND Surety on the bond in unsu- Probate and Family Court Hewat and Debra Wolohan ly of one Westort, and the ($5,000.00) Dollars of the pervised administration

This paper publishes birth, engagement, wedding and signifi cant anniversary announcements free of charge. Simply log on to our web site, choose the paper you want the announcement to appear in, then use our SUBMISSION link to email your information. birth announcements www.newspapers.turley.com Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 page 15

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21 Base Price 22 Base Price 23 Base Price 24 Base Price $10.00 $10.50 $11.00 $11.50 21 Base Price 22 Base Price 23 Base Price 24 Base Price $10.00 $10.50 $11.00 $11.50

25 Base Price 26 Base Price 27 Base Price 28 Base Price $12.00 $12.50 $13.00 $13.50 25 Base Price 26 Base Price 27 Base Price 28 Base Price $12.00 $12.50 $13.00 $13.50

29 Base Price 30 Base Price 31 Base Price 32 Base Price WE RENOVATE, SELL & PUR- $14.00 $14.50 $15.00 $15.50 29 Base Price 30 Base Price 31 Base Price 32 Base Price WECHASE RENOVATE, (any condition) SELL horse & drawnPUR- $14.00 $15.00 $15.50 $14.50 CHASEvehicles such(any condition)as sleighs, horse carriages, drawn surreys, wagons, dr’s buggies, drive- 33 Base Price 34 Base Price 35 Base Price 36 Base Price vehicles such as sleighs, carriages, $16.00 $16.50 $17.00 $17.50 surreys,able or lawnwagons, ornaments. dr’s buggies, Some drivefurni- 33 Base Price 34 Base Price 35 Base Price 36 Base Price Buy the Hilltowns ZONE for $9.50 for 20 words $16.00 $16.50 $17.00 $17.50 ableture orand lawn other ornaments. restoration Some services furni- plusBuy the50¢ Hilltowns for each additionalZONE for $9.50 word. for 20 words tureavailable. and Reasonableother restoration prices. services Quality 37 Base Price 38 Base Price 39 Base Price 40 Base Price workmanship. Call (413)213-0373 $18.00 $18.50 $19.00 $19.50 plus 50¢ for each additional word. available. Reasonable prices. Quality 37 Base Price 38 Base Price 39 Base Price 40 Base Price Add $10 for a second Zone or add $15 to run in workmanship.for estimate and Call information. (413)213-0373 $18.00 $18.50 $19.00 $19.50 ALLAdd THREE$10 for ZONES. a second Zone or add $15 to run in for estimate and information. ALL THREE ZONES. DEMERS & SONS Includes BELCHERTOWN,DEMERS & SONS MA Name: ______Phone: ______First ZONE base price ______additional words Includes BELCHERTOWN, MA Name: ______Phone: ______First ZONE base price ______$ additional words Address: ______Add a second ZONE ______10.00 $ Run my ad in the Address: ______Add a second ZONE ______$10.00 following ZONE(s): Town: ______State:______Zip:______Add a third ZONE ______5.00 Run my ad in the $ followingHilltowns ZONE(s): CHILD SERVICES Town: ______State:______Zip:______Add a third ZONE ______5.00 ❏ Number of Weeks: ______X per week rate = $______Subtotal ______Hilltowns CHILD SERVICES ❏ *NEW STATE LAW. Anyone adver- Number of Weeks: ______❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ X per week ❏rate = $______Subtotal ______Suburban tising caring of children must list a li- Credit Card: MasterCard VISA Discover Cash Check# ______x Number of Weeks ______❏ *NEW STATE LAW. Anyone adver- ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ Suburban tisingcense caringnumber of to children do so if mustthey offerlist athis li- Credit Card: MasterCard VISA Discover Cash Check# ______x Number of Weeks ______❏ Card #: ______Exp. Date ______CVV ______TOTAL Enclosed ______Quabbin censeservice number in their toown do home.so if they offer this ❏ Card #: ______Exp. Date ______CVV ______TOTAL Enclosed ______Quabbin service in their own home. Amount of charge: ______Date: ______❏ Amount of charge: ______Date: ______Find archives of this Findlocal archives newspaper of this at OUR CLASSIFIEDS REACH 50 COMMUNITIES EVERY WEEK! www.newspapers.turley.comlocal newspaper at OUR CLASSIFIEDS REACH 50 COMMUNITIES EVERY WEEK! www.newspapers.turley.com page 16 Country Journal • Thursday, March 11, 2021 REGION

Classifieds12 WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS COVID-19 vaccines can result SERVING 50 LOCAL COMMUNITIES Call us at 413.283.8393 in false positive mammograms ❙ A TURLEY PUBLICATION www.turley.com SPRINGFIELD – Women and ally doesn’t mean cancer,” said ty to the virus,” Hadro said. the COVID-19 vaccine are back in radiologist Dr. Jennifer Hadro, Women with irregular results SERVICES REAL ESTATE the news again. medical co-director of breast on their mammogram will need a First it was the question as to imaging at Baystate Health. follow-up after their second dose HOME LAND FOR SALE whether pregnant women should To save women the anxiety of the vaccine in order to be cer- IMPROVEMENT get the vaccine, now the concern is over a possible false positive, the tain that the inflammation was SMALL WATERFRONT LOTS over mammograms and the effects Society of Breast Imaging released nothing more than a side effect to Dock coming soon, swimming and DELREO HOME IMPROVEMENT the COVID vaccines may play in the following statement: “If pos- the vaccine. fishing. Holland, MA. $19,000 each or for all your exterior home improve- best offer (508) 868-6157 imaging, which can result in false sible, and when it does not undu- “The recommendations above ment needs. ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS, DOORS, DECKS & GUT- positives. ly delay care, consider scheduling apply to screening mammogra- TERS. Extensive references available, Since the first of the COVID- screening exams prior to the first phy only, meaning women with- Fully Licensed & Insured in MA. & CT. FOR RENT 19 vaccines began to roll out in dose of a COVID-19 vaccination out any concerns such as a lump Call GARY DELCAMP @ 413-569- 3733 late December, radiologists across or four to six weeks following the or other breast changes. We know the country have seen an increase second dose of a COVID-19 vac- that mammograms save lives, and NAWROCKI HOME IMPROVE- in abnormal mammograms which cination.” if your doctor has ordered a mam- MENT Kitchens, bathrooms, replace- ment windows & doors, roofing, siding, showed swollen lymph nodes. “Swollen lymph nodes on mogram as a precaution after feel- decks, custom woodworking, drywall. “The presence of swollen the side of the injection are not ing a lump or other concern, it’s Full insured & registered 413-237- lymph nodes, although rare, on a unusual after being vaccinated important to keep that appointment 2250 Mark mammogram could be a sign of against other viruses such as the even if you have been vaccinated ALL REAL ESTATE advertised breast cancer requiring an addi- flu and may actually be a good in the past four to six weeks,” said herein is subject to the Federal Fair tional exam or even a biopsy. sign. Their presence is an indi- Hadro. Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or When women receive a callback cation that the vaccine is likely For more information about CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All discrimination because of race, color, Makes/ Models 2000-2019! Any Con- after a mammogram, it can be doing its job and your body is Baystate Health, visit baystate- religion, sex, handicap, familial status, dition, Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! quite anxiety producing, but usu- beginning to build up an immuni- health.org. or national origin, or intention to make Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call any such preference, limitation, or WedisNavigating- make senior life’s Navigating life’s Now: 1-888-513-1505. WeNavigating make senior life’s Navigating life’s crimination.” We will not knowingly ac- cept any advertising for real estateliving simple. which is in violation of the law. All per- living simple. sons are hereby informed that all We make senior living simple. dwellings advertised are available on HORSES an equal opportunity basis. Finding andFinding understanding and understandingFinding senior and living understanding options senior can living seniorbe options living options can becan overwhelming be HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS overwhelmingand confusing.and confusing.overwhelming Oasis Oasis Senior Senior and confusing. Advisors Advisors Oasis isis here hereSenior to Advisors help, is here offered year round at our state of the VACATION to help, because the right place means everything. art facility. Beginner to advanced. Ages because theto right help, placebecause means the right everything. place means everything. 4 years to adult. Boarding, Sales and RENTALS Leasing also available. Convenient lo- ➤ Discuss Discuss financial financial options, Discussoptions, location financial locationand preferences options, and locationpreferences and preferences cation at Orion Farm in South Hadley WARM WEATHER IS Year Round In Aruba. The water is safe, and the ➤ Provide Provide a personalized a personalized list Provide of local list a personalizedhousing of local options housing list of local options housing options (413)532-9753 www.orionfarm. Set up and tour communities Set up with and you tour communities with you net dining is fantastic. Walk out to the ➤ Set up and tour communities with you beach. 3-Bedroom weeks available. Once the right place is selected, Once the we right make place transitions is selected, easy! we make transitions easy! Sleeps 8. Email: [email protected] ➤ Once the right place is selected, we make transitions easy! for more information. CallCall for for a free a free in-depth in-depthCall for consultation a consultationfree in-depth today! consultation today! today! SEEKING NEXT LEADER! Enlace de Familias, a grassroots non-profit in Holyoke that provides support and ad- FOR RENT EricEric Aasheim AasheimEric Aasheim vocacy, community mobilization, and Certified Senior Advisor Certified(CSA)® Senior® Advisor (CSA)® training to empower families, is seek- Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) [email protected]@YourOasisAdvisor.com ing its next Executive Director. Visit [email protected] Serving Western Mass and Surrounding Areas the Open Searches page at www. 413-351-6577 Serving Western Mass and SurroundingServingOasisSeniorAdvisors.com/WesternMass Areas Western Mass and Surrounding Areas eostransitions.com for info. All real estate advertising in this 413-351-6577 OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/WesternMass newspaper is subject to the Federal 413-351-6577 OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/WesternMass Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes THE TOWN OF HUNTINGTON it illegal to advertise any preference, IS SEEKING A TEMPORARY limitation or discrimination based on FULL-TIME HIGHWAY TRUCK race, color, religion, sex, handicap, DRIVER/EQUIPMENT OPERA- familial status (number of children and Our advertisers TOR/LABORER. Applicants must or pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, make this possess a CDL Class B with Air Brake age, marital status, or any intention to APRIL 2021 Endorsement and have heavy equip- make any such preference, limitation or A SPECIAL publication SUPPLEMENT TO ment experience. Application and discrimination. complete job description are available This newspaper will not knowingly accept possible. online at www.huntingtonma.us or by any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby Let them know you emailing [email protected]. WWW.TURLEY.COM informed that all dwellings advertising in saw their ad in the Please send letter of interest, resume, this newspaper are available on an equal and application by Monday, March 15, opportunity basis. To complain about 2021 at 3:00 p.m. to: Huntington Se- discrimination call The Department of Country lectboard, PO Box 430, Huntington, Housing and Urban Development “ HUD” MA 01050; or by email to admin@ toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. For the N.E. Journal huntingtonma.us area, call HUD at 617-565-5308. The toll free number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. WHATEVER YOUR SPECIALTY, YOUR AD WILL REACH ALMOST 100,000 HOUSEHOLDS Joy Salvini Broker Associate

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