November 26, 2015 - Wilbraham Hampden Times
Transcription
New owners for Boston Road business: See Page 22 Thursday, November 26, 2015 The Wilbraham-Hampden Mailed Thursdays to every home in Wilbraham and Hampden Tomahawks tip Minnechaug Prsrt Std U.S. Postage Paid Palmer, MA Permit No. 22 Postal Patron ECRW SS Please see page 17 s s e n d kin Dedicated to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve Town rallies around counsel Revolving shelves of Benefit to be held Dec. 2 for Michael Hassett By Joan Paris Special to the Times TIMES staff photo by Emily Thurlow Michelle Levrault, assistant director of the Community Survival Center, leans upon an empty shelf designated for Thanksgiving items. Community Survival Center delivers non-perishable packages of hope By Emily Thurlow and Tyler S. Witkop Staff Writers T he flavor bursts of onions, celery and sage cannonballs onto the palate from a mouthful of warm stuffing. The tangysweet taste of cranberry sauce touching the tips of your tastebuds. Cranberry sauce and stuffing are the cherries to top the whipped cream of the feast that many look forward to on Thanksgiving. But for a number of residents through- out Ludlow, Hampden, Indian Orchard and Wilbraham, like the shelves designated for the holiday at the Community Survival Center, mouths and bellies will remain empty. In the spirit of the holiday season, two reporters from The Register and The Wilbraham-Hampden Times decided to explore an entity that helps support the communities that the two newspapers served by also donating some time to their cause at the Community Survival Center in Indian Orchard. Though Please see CENTER, page 14 Tree lighting to feature ‘special visitors’ TIMES photo by David Miles From left Aidan Warton of Northern Tree Service and Rotarians David Gibb, Larry Emerle, Dr. Ed McFarland, Walter Markett, Donald Flannery and Brad Sperry spent a cold Nov. 14 stringing lights for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Annual tree lighting ‘brighter than ever’ Event to take place Dec. 6 in Crane Park By Tyler S. Witkop Turley Publications Staff Writer WILBRAHAM – The lights have been strung and the countdown is on for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, which according to Dr. Ed McFarland is set to be “brighter than ever.” McFarland, WilbrahamHampden Rotary Club past president, explained that he and members of the club Walter Markett, Donald Flannery, Brad Sperry, Larry Emerle and David Gibb spent a frigid Saturday, Nov. 14 with Northern Tree Service stringing lights atop the giPlease see LIGHTING, page 20 HAMPDEN – With a special police and fire escorted visit from Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, the annual Hampden Tree Lighting ceremony will take place Sunday, Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Led by the Board of Selectmen – Chairman Vincent Vaillamaino, John D. Flynn and Norman Charest – the public is invited to take part in caroling and witness the lighting of the large evergreen in front of the Hampden Town House, 625 Main St. Following the lighting, children are welcome to visit and have pictures taken with Santa. The Hampden Boy Scouts will be present with an honor guard and the Girl Scouts will offer snacks and hot chocolate for all in attendance. Attendants are asked to bring a canned good donation for those in need. For more information, contact the selectmen at 5662151, ext. 100. WILBRAHAM - Every now and then a man casts a shadow greater than his height. There’s more to him than meets the eye and you end up with more than you bargained for. Atty. Michael T. Hassett, retired Wilbraham town counsel of the past 27 years, has seemed larger than life from the very beginning. Retired in his prime at 61 years of age, Hassett vacated public office earlier this year following a staggering diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s disease. He and his wife Janice, of Wilbraham, and three grown daughters, Kara, Julie, and Deborah of Los Angeles, California, are readying for a move to the West Coast in mid-December, after Please see COUNSEL, page 28 Remembering Kathy Lehndorff Fundraiser ongoing to exhibit artist’s work By Tyler S. Witkop Turley Publications Staff Writer HAMPDEN – A lifelong artist, Kathy Lehndorff had the creative touch. Now her husband and caregiver Peter is borrowing a stroke of her genius to create a lasting legacy of her work. “I want to have two exhibits,” he explained, “one in this area, possibly Hampden, and one at the UConn Health Center.” From paintings to collages and imaginative sculptures, her works adorn the walls and space of their Hampden home. Some of her work is even on display in the offices of MassMutual. Peter said that the exhibits would serve as a “celebration of life” for his wife of 38 years. Kathy had been living with the noticeable signs of Please see ARTIST, page 28 TIMES staff photo by Tyler S. Witkop Peter Lehndorff kneels with his Basset hound Marty in front of the artwork of his late wife Kathy in their Hampden home. Lehndorff hopes to exhibit her work for the public in the near future. The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page Recent police activity in Wilbraham WilbrahamHampden Times Obituary Policy Turley Publications offers two types of obituaries. One is a free, brief Death Notice listing the name of deceased, date of death and funeral date and place. The other is a Paid Obituary, costing $75, which allows families to publish extended death notice information of their own choice and may include a photograph. Death Notices & Paid Obituaries should be submitted through a funeral home to: [email protected]. Exceptions will be made only when the family provides a death certificate and must be pre-paid. November 26, 2015 Samantha Hebert to wed Nathan Dentzau TIMES photo submitted Samantha Hebert and Nathan Dentzau HAMPDEN - The parents of Samantha Hebert and Nathan Dentzau announce the couple’s engagement. The couple were engaged July 22, 2014. Hebert, of South Hadley, graduated from South Hadley High School and is employed at Children’s Creative Learning Center of Framingham. Dentzau, of Hampden, graduated from Minnechaug Regional High School and is employed at the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. A Nov. 5, 2016 wedding is planned. Hebert is the daughter of Larry and Kathleen Hebert, of South Hadley. Dentzau is the son of Mark and Susan Dentzau, of Hampden. WPD offers women’s self-defense class WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Police Department announced a Rape Aggression Defense System class will begin Wednesday, Dec. 9 at the Gardens of Wilbraham, 2301 Boston Road, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Designed for women ages It’s All About Me Special Occasion • Personal Shopper Layaway Program • Gift Cards Support Small Business! If you forget we are here we will disappear. Feel Fabulous! Holiday party, dinner with your girlfriends, entertaining at home... let us help you find the perfect outfit! Visit our gift shop upstairs for hostess gifts and stocking stuffers. 32 Somers Road, Hampden, MA 01036 • 413-566-2285 Monday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-5 • Sunday 1-5 www.shopitsallaboutme.blogspot.com 13 and older, the program teaches awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, progressing to the basics of hands-on defense training. The class runs four consecutive Wednesdays, ending Dec. 30. Cost is $25 and class size is limited to 25 women. Reg- istration forms may be found online at the department’s page at wilbraham-ma.gov. Deadline for registration is Friday, Dec. 4. For more information, contact Sgt. Mark Paradis or Officer Michael Cygan at 5963837. The Perfect Christmas Tree... ❆ ❆ It ❆ r Shop The Little Flowe of Hampden ❆ FEATURING HAMPDEN NURSERIES CHRISTMAS TREES ❆ ❆ ❆ • Wreaths • Swags • Garland • Memorial Logs • Fresh Flowers • Gifts 16 Somers Road, Hampden Delivery Available to Local Towns • 566-3242 LUMINATIONS: A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Police Department released information on recent police activity reported by Capt. Timothy Kane. Per Massachusetts state law, no names of persons arrested for domestic violence charges can be publicly disseminated. Those arrested or summonsed will appear in court at a future date and are innocent until proven guilty. Suspended License On Nov. 16 at 4:23 p.m. Officer Brent Noyes stopped a grey Acura for an inspection violation on Boston Road. Subsequent follow-up resulted in finding that Dominik Whitley, 22, of Springfield, was Operating on a Suspended License and he also had a warrant for traffic offenses. He was taken into custody without incident. Outstanding Warrant On Nov. 17 at 6:07 a.m. Officer Aderico Florindo stopped a grey Infiniti for equipment violations. The operator, Jessica Chery, 26, of East Hartford, Connecticut, had a warrant for traffic violations out of Natick, Massachusetts. She was taken into custody without incident. Probation Violation On Nov. 19 at 6:42 a.m. Officer Sean Casella and the Massachusetts State VFAS Unit arrested Kristal H. Collins, 20, of Wilbraham, for a probation violation warrant. The warrant originated from charges involving drugs and firearms. NOW OPEN Rooster Hollow 757 Main Street, Wilbraham, MA (behind Rice Farm) Antiques, Vintage Furniture and Primitive, Handcrafted Items. Art Dolls. One of a Kind Pieces. Come in for that special holiday gift! Hours: Wed., Thurs. & Sun. 11-4; Fri. 1-7; Sat. 11-7 (413) 244-0878 Cathy Hensley Offering basic firearm safety classes to apply for MA, CT, RI, NH, FL & many other state licenses. Visit our website for more information. FRIDAY, DEC. 11 · 7 P.M. WMA’S ALUMNI MEMORIAL CHAPEL MAIN STREET IN WILBRAHAM www.ssdtacticaltraining.com SSD Tactical Training 413-204-0592 100 Verge St. Unit 2 • Springfield, MA GIVE THE GIFT OF SAFETY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE. b r e e n v i RPET CREMATORYd Join Wilbraham & Monson Academy for a fun and joyful evening of Manchester,CT 06042 www.riverbendpetcrematory.com All Services • Individual Pet Provided with the Cremations • Private Cremations Dignity Your Pet · Festive Music · Dance Performances · Storytelling · Holiday Traditions · Cookies & Cocoa with Santa and good cheer! Call Al at (860) 643-2955 Deserves Insurance solutions -designed with you in mind!!!! HELENE CURTO INSURANCE SERVICES Independent Agent Since 2000 Individual & Business Supplemental Benefits ALL ARE WELCOME! • DENTAL, ACCIDENT & CANCER CARE WITH AFLAC • SHORT & LONG TERM DISABILITY & LONG TERM CARE 413.596.6811 · wma.us With Other Fine Companies Office: 413-596-9029 Cell: 413-221-8441 Wilbraham, MA www.helenecurtoinsurance.webs.com The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page NEWS About Town By Tyler Witkop and Tony Fimognari To submit items for possible inclusion in News About Town or other news columns, send to Editor, Wilbraham Hampden Times, 2341 Boston Rd., Wilbraham, MA 01095 or e-mail to [email protected]. Photos are welcome. Mitten Tree to benefit Community Survival Center WILBRAHAM – To celebrate the season of giving, the Wilbraham Public Library will again feature a Mitten Tree, which will be decorated with donations of gloves, mittens, hats and scarves for children and adults. All donations must be new and brought to the library to decorate the tree from now until Wednesday, Dec. 16. Library collecting ‘change for change’ Hampden to update Connect CTY information HAMPDEN – The Hampden Board of Selectmen announced that the town will be updating its Blackboard Connect CTY information, which sends emergency and important town information via telephone alerts to residents. To receive messages, residents must be registered through the Blackboard Connect CTY website. HAMPDEN – The Hampden Public Library announced it is holding a holiday fundraiser for Heifer International now through Tuesday, Dec. 22 called “Change for Change.” An international nonprofit, Heifer International provides livestock, trees, training and other resources to help poor families worldwide become selfreliant. Recipients of livestock promise to share offspring with a neighbor to continue a chain of giving. Library Director Ellen Moriarty said last year’s drive collected $152.44, enough to purchase a goat, a flock of chickens and a rabbit. Animal banks are located in the library to receive donations. For more information call 5663047. After that time, all donated items will be brought to the Community Survival Center for distribution. For more information, call the library at 596-6141. Selectmen ask that all residents review and update necessary contact information by visiting hampden.org and clicking on the “Police” link on the right side of the page to connect to Blackboard. Residents may then register any number they wish. For more information, call the Selectmen’s Office at 566-2151, ext. 100. Survey of historical properties WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Historical Commission will be conducting an inventory of historical properties within the town of Wilbraham. This inventory is funded by a grant from the Community Preservation Committee. Residents who own or are aware of a property at least 100 years old or of significant historical value to SMALL BUSINESS BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Prepare Now for Tax Season! Weekly or Monthy Basis • At Your Location or Mine Over 20 Years Experience Let me take the work out of your paperwork the town are asked to email the address, with any pertinent information to [email protected]. The inventory is a continuation of one conducted in the past. Properties already inventoried may be viewed at www.mhcmacris.net. Any included property in the inventory will be researched for information to include the age, location and provenience. Editorial................................................................ 6 Sports.................................................................. 17 Business............................................................... 22 Arts & Lifestyles. ............................................... 24 Health................................................................. 26 Schools. .............................................................. 27 Suburban Living.................................................... 28 PHONE 413.682.0007 Fax: 413.682.0013 Subscriptions: 413.283.8393 EMAIL Advertising Sales Jocelyn Walker [email protected] Editor Tyler S. Witkop [email protected] Subscriptions Charlann Griswold [email protected] $45 per year pre-paid ($50 out of state) WEB www.wilbrahamtimes.com @ Wilbraham-Hampden Times The Wilbraham-Hampden Times is published by Turley Publications, Inc. • www.turley.com Beading Kits Make Great Stocking Stuffers! S “Foreverclean” Gutter System A 1916 1/2 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, MA • 413-782-0288 SPECIAL * M Tues. & Wed. 11-5:30, Thurs. 11-7, Fri. 10-4, Sat. 10-2, Sun. 12-4 Per Foot Installed* *(First 25 ft. with complete job min. 100 ft.) L Wednesday, November 25, 9 pm GIFT CARDS ALSO AVAILABLE www.simplybeadiful.com NO COVER 536-7451 E S MA LIC #163177 • CT #2489990 G U T T E RS NOTICE ERRORS: Each advertiser is requested to check their advertisement the first time it appears. This paper will not be responsible for more than one corrected insertion, nor will be liable for any error in an advertisement to a greater extent than the cost of the space occupied by the item in the advertisement. Visit our website for our calendar of upcoming events and class schedules. ACROSS FROM FRESH ACRES, BEHIND DUNKIN DONUTS Family Operated for 41 years For All Your Gutter Needs Beautifully Decorated Kissing Balls, Swags & Fresh Garland Fragrant Festive Evergreens Balsam, Cedar, Holly & Boxwood Winter Memorial Pots & Logs Fresh Christmas Trees 4 feet to 10 feet tall Balsam and Fraser Fir "Not Just Red" E www.mrgutter.biz WITH HOLIDAY GREENERY! Fresh Balsam Wreaths POINSETTIAS • Residential • Commercial Cleaning • Repairs 99¢ THE BEST FRESH FOR YOUR HOLIDAYS! Spectacular East Longmeadow, MA [email protected] LIFETIME WARRANTY WILBRAHAM – The sestercentennial edition of the town’s history “Wilbraham History and Culture Volume IV 1963-2013” is now available at the Wilbraham Library and Old Meeting House Museum. Edited by Joan Paris, the book features 25 chapters of town history, covering such events as the rise and fall of the Peach Festival, the 2011 storms, and the shift from an agricultural community. Cost is $30 and proceeds support library and Old Meeting House programs. The book was funded by the 250th Anniversary Committee led by Co-Chairs Kevin Moriarty and Patti Diotalevi. in this week’s times Stacie Irla • 413-896-5983 Mr. Gutter Book available for purchase THE SHOP Friday, November 27, NO COVER LOBSTERZ FROM MARZ SERVING OVER 100 BEERS THE LIGHTHOUSE 108 SEWALL ST • LUDLOW, MA • 583-6782 Fantasy Colors - Blue, Lavender, Fuchsia, Gold "Glittered & Glamourous" Holiday Open House Saturday & Sunday December 5 & 6 Visit Santa & Mrs. Claus Sample Our Holiday Menus Wine Tasting • Hourly Giveaways SPEND $50 IN RANDALL'S CHRISTMAS GREENHOUSE - EARN A $10 COUPON PURCHASE $50 IN GIFT CARDS EARN A $5 COUPON ALWAYS FRESH AT ROBERTS ROOFS SPECIALIZING IN Slate • Copper • Architectural Shingles • Gutters Historical Restoration • Flat Roofing Snow Removal Snow/Ice Damage Repair Tel. 413-283-4395 Cell 413-237-9434 www.RobertsRoofsInc.com 38 Years Experience 631 CENTER ST. Route 21 Mass Tpke Exit 7 LUDLOW • 589-7071 • www.randallsfarm.net OPEN EVERY DAY 7AM-8PM Find us on Facebook and YouTube The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page November 26, 2015 NEWS About Town TIMES staff photo by Tyler S. Witkop A meeting with the ‘trailmaster’… Wilbraham-Hampden Rotary Club President Charlie Bennett (left) welcomes guest speaker and Minnechaug Land Trust Hampden Trailmaster Charlie Thompson to club’s Nov. 18 meeting at the Anchor House Restaurant. Thompson gave an engaging talk on the status of Hampden’s trails along Goat Rock and Minnechaug Mountain, and led a sing-along featuring his original handyman song, “Duct Tape.” Sue Burk at 413-530-3434 or [email protected]. Hikes continue Saturday, Nov. 28 at 10 a.m. along Thayer Brook in Wilbraham to “Whale Rock,” at 700 Monson Road. Rated as easy, the hike is rated easy and estimated travel time is one hour. Contact hike leader Gerri Morgan at 413-896-5528 or [email protected] for more information. The club will travel south of the border Sunday, Nov. 29 to trek Soapstone Mountain at Shenipsit State Forest in WILBRAHAM – The Gardens of Wilbraham is accepting registration for the Winter Community Farmers Market. Vendors selling winter vegetables, baked goods, flowers, plants, eggs, cheeses, meats, fruits, herbs and any other organic products are welcome. The market takes place every first and third Saturday beginning Dec. 5 and will run through to April 30, 2016. The hours of operation are 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. For more information contact Michelle at 596-5322 or email [email protected]. Senior Center to hold Medicare open enrollment opportunities Upcoming local hiking opportunities announced WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Hiking Club announced three hikes are planned for this weekend beginning Friday, Nov. 27 along Sweet Alice Brook in Amherst. The club’s first ever “Spend Some Time Outdoors on Black Friday” hike will take place at 10 a.m. and attendants should meet at the Notch Visitor Center parking lot, 1500 West St. in Amherst. Rated as an easy hike, total distance is 2 miles and the terrain may be slippery with wet leaves. For more information, contact hike leader Winter Farmers Market accepting registration Somers, Connecticut. Hikers should meet at the parking area located on Gulf Road at 10 a.m. or carpool at Soule Road Elementary School at 9:15 a.m. Rated as a moderate hike, the 5-mile walk features a short, steep climb in the beginning. Estimated travel time is three hours. For more information, contact hike leader Jay Taylor at 413-726-4374 or jayt6289@ gmail.com. Hikers should bring appropriate clothing, water, snacks and traction gear. WILBRAHAM – Medicare Open Enrollment will be taking place at the Wilbraham Senior Center through Monday, Dec. 7. This is an opportunity for individuals to review and make changes to health insurance and prescription drug plans. A Medicare card, current medical insurance card, list of doctors, list of medications and a scheduled appointment is mandatory. Open appointment dates are Nov. 27 and Dec. 4. For more information or to make an appointment, call the Wilbraham Senior Center at 5968379. Choral Group to perform holiday music WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Women’s Club Choral Group will be performing holiday music at several locations this holiday season. Their first performance will take place at Keystone Woods, 936 Grayson Drive in Springfield, on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 1 p.m. Their second performance will take place at Emeritus East Longmeadow, 741 Parker St., on Thursday, Dec. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Their final performance will take place at Wingate East Longmeadow, 32 Chestnut St., on Friday, Dec. 4 at 2:30 p.m. The group is conducted by Ruth Carlson and features musical accompaniment by Barbara Bennett on piano. 1307 Park Street (Route 20), Palmer, MA C hristmas t MDFNVRQVDXWRVDOHVDQGVHUYLFHFRP Monday-Friday: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM to 12:00 NOON 12 5 Star Authorized Registered State Emissions Repair Facility #RP008269 t4FOJPS%JTDPVOU&WFSZ%BZt)PVS'3&&5PXJOH (Parts only/not valid with other coupon offers) t"4&$FSUJmFE.FDIBOJDT t"VUPNBUJD5SBOTNJTTJPO3FQBJS (to Jackson’s for repair within a 15 mile radius) t2VBMJUZ1SF0XOFE7FIJDMFT t8FFLMZ5JSF4QFDJBMT ...where every 4th Oil Change is same vechicle-cannot be combined with other coupon offers LUBE - OIL - FILTER With quality Exxon Mobil oil, oil filter, 21 point check, top off all fluids. 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Most Vehicles - With this coupon - Expires 12/31/15 T Family Owned & Operated 2040 Boston Road, Wilbraham, MA 413-543-1338 • www.QuinnsFineJewelry.com Quinn’s – The Diamond Specialists! The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page NEWS About Town Fundraiser to benefit annual baseball tournament WILBRAHAM – The Kevin Ambrose Memorial Baseball Tournament and Falcons U13 Baseball will be holding a holiday fundraiser at Dana’s Grillroom on Wednesday, Dec. 2 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. A raffle drawing will be held at 9 p.m. and prizes include Celtics tickets, Bruins tickets and a $100 Dana’s Grillroom gift certificate. For more information or to purchase raffle tickets in advance, contact Maggie Clifford at [email protected]. Christmas celebration at Old Meeting House WILBRAHAM – The Old Meeting House, located at 450 Main St., will host “The Magic of Christmas” on Sunday, Dec. 6 from 2 to 5 p.m. The event will feature trees decorated by local groups, mulled cider and baked goods. The event is free for all and open to the public. e We’ved! Mov Garden Club to offer ‘Holiday Tea’ WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Garden Club will hold its annual “Holiday Tea” event at St. Cecilia’s Parish on Thursday, Dec. 3 at noon. This year, Carol King Platt will demonstrate arrangements for the season all made by locally available materials. Platt is a resident of Wallingford, Connecticut, and has written garden columns for 23 years. Her lecture will consist of garden design and flower arranging. The event features a lunch, holiday demonstration and a chance to take home one of Platt’s arrangements through a raffle. All are welcome to attend and admission is $5. Red Hat Christmas Party set for Dec. 4 WILBRAHAM – The Red Hat Ya Ya Sisterhood of Wilbraham announced its annual Christmas Party will take place Friday, Dec. 4 at the Ludlow Country Club, 1 Tony Lema Drive in Ludlow, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The menu includes a choice of Boston Baked Scrod, Chicken Picata or Yankee Pot Roast. A baby shower will take place, with items going to the Bethlehem House in Easthampton. The Bethlehem House provides resources for local pregnant women in crisis. Additionally, two raffle baskets will be featured as door prizes. Cost is $18 and the registration deadline is Monday, Nov. 30. For more information, contact Kathy Phipps at 596-9938. Wilbraham Women’s Club to hold Christmas social WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Women’s Club will hold their Christmas social on Thursday, Dec. 10 at 11:30 a.m. at the St. Cecilia Parish Hall. After the luncheon the Women’s Club Choral Group will perform their Christmas themed music. Guests are welcome to join in the festivities. Wishing Warm & Happy Holidays to All of our Customers and Friends When only the best will do... Shop at Kate Gray for the special women on your gift list. Choose from the finest selection of clothing and accessories or get her a gift card and let her have the fun of choosing. $25 OFF Purchase of $100 or More Offer expires 12/24/15. Cannot be combined with other offers or coupons, not valid on previous purchases, sale merchandise or gift cards. http://kate-gray.myshopify.com/products/gift-card ❚ FREE GIFT SHOPPING ❚ FREE GIFT WRAPPING ❚ FREE DELIVERY 398 Longmeadow Street Longmeadow, MA • 413.567.7500 seasonal hours: Mon. – Fri. 10-7, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5 Making a connection with seniors… TIMES photo by David Miles Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr. speaks to assembled seniors at St. Cecilia’s Church on Nov. 19 during the weekly Senior Connection. Ashe gave a talk on corrections and the successful re-entry of offenders into the community. Knights hold birthday party for Jesus WILBRAHAM – The Knights of Columbus will be sponsoring an event to celebrate the birthday of Jesus on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the St. Cecilia Parish Center, 42 Main St. The event will include food, games, prizes, two bounce houses, cake and ice cream. The event is geared for children from sixth grade and under, however all families are welcome. Parents must be present and remain with their children. The event is free. To donate snack items or for more information, contact Fred Ferraro at 596-4312. The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page November 26, 2015 Editorial The drive behind ‘buying local’ By Jocelyn Walker Times Advertising Representative Express found that house prices near a prosperous town center have risen by an average of $40,000 more over the past decade than other ocal businesses define our sense of properties. 2. It is the ethical choice. Buying out-ofplace, but we often forget their survival season produce, like strawberries in depends on our patronage. December, lowers eco-credentials. There is no denying that the Internet When shopping at local butchers, is more convenient and makes it far bakers, farm stands and farmers mareasier to compare the price of shopkets, it is likely that a decent percentping. But some retailers claim the age of the produce has had a short shift is now towards the Main Street, field-to-fork journey. Along with and buying locally is the message besupporting local farmers, it means hind Small Business Saturday. the food is likely to contain more nuThe Saturday after Thanksgiving trients and have less packaging. (Nov. 28 this year) has been desig3. They sell unique, one-of- anated as the day to go out and shop at Jocelyn Walker kind gifts. Independent shops like small independent businesses in our Oh So Pretties and Inside Out Home community. Don’t forget the “little guy” this holiday season, as shoppers will be & Garden often stock items which are made pleasantly surprised by the quality merchan- locally and aren’t available elsewhere. When it dise, great service and fair pricing. Here are six comes to gifts, quirky and unique items are a reasons why it is worth shopping local for gifts major plus of independent shops. Local shops also support local artists and designers, food and groceries this holiday season. 1. Your spending will boost the local econ- producers and growers, so you’re buying prodomy. Research on spending by local authorities ucts absolutely unique to your area. 4. You help build communities. Boutiques, shows that for every $1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 68 cents stayed in the cafés and gift shops often drum up customlocal economy, compared to 43 cents with a ers by hosting events like crafting clubs, book corporate chain store. Research by American clubs and children’s events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too. 6. You might get a better deal or some good advice. Local bakers may throw in an extra bagel or cookie for regulars; the butchers at Village Food Mart will sell you a whole chicken and then cut it up or marinate your steak tips and chicken tenders also at no extra charge. The women at It’s All About Me or Added Attractions will take the time to help you choose the perfect dress for a special event or will save items in your size when they come in. Most importantly, shopping local maintains community character. The Village Store Café, located in one of the oldest buildings in Wilbraham, isn’t anywhere else in the country. It has its own special charm and local “characters” you will run into each day you stop in for your pastry or sandwich. That’s what makes it special and uniquely Wilbraham. The overall impacts are clear: locally-owned businesses play a key role in our community that chains rarely do. If we took away the independent businesses in our communities and were left with just the chain stores, Wilbraham and Hampden would look like every other town across America. We would lose the sense of “home” and our hometown pride. Volunteers of the Week Meeting Schedule L This week’s volunteers of the week are Rebecca Fleming and Grace GomesMoriarty who participate in the Read Aloud program at Brunton Elementary School through the Springfield Schools Volunteers. Wilbraham The state estimates the value of a volunteer in Massachusetts is worth $27.43 per hour. Monday, Nov. 30 Board of Selectmen 7 p.m. Town Office Building LETTERS to the editor Hampden Show support, end violence against women To the editor: One in three women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence - mostly by an intimate partner. Whether at home, on the streets or during war, violence against women is a global pandemic that takes place in public and private spaces. Together we can and must end this pandemic. Nov. 25 marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the beginning of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence. The 16 Days of Activism is an international campaign that was started by activists at the first Women’s Global Leadership Institute convened by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership in 1991. Today, it is used as an organizing strategy by individuals, organizations and governments around the world to raise public awareness and mobilize people everywhere to bring about change. This year, the UN Secretary General’s “UNiTE to End Violence against Women” campaign invites all of us to “Orange the world” from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10, using the color designated by the UNiTE campaign to symbolize a brighter future without violence. During these 16 days, we invite you to learn more about the issues at unwomen.org, 16dayscwgl.rutgers.edu and zontasaysno.com; wear something orange and let people know why you are doing so; and consider advocating for making sustainable change - together - by getting involved in an international organization like Zonta. Envision a world where no woman lives in fear of violence. Mary F. Knight, Communications Chair Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley The recent improvements to Sevey Park at Bruuer Pond have highlighted this little jewel in our town. Kudos to Tanya Basch and the entire team! The new purple martin birdhouse “dovetails” beautifully into the property. Gerri Morgan Wilbraham Turkey Leg An’ Giblet My turkey came to dinner a-lookin’ for a chair. Showed up very suddenly without a stitch to wear. No seat to give some comfort. No place to put a tail. No help to find a seat to sit. No weepin’ an’ no wail. QUOTATIONS of the Week “ I think everyone should experience the needs of the community through volunteering. Before I came here I’d hear about people in need. Just seeing the amount of need … is eye opening. ” Community Survival Center Assistant Director Michelle Levrault on the increasing amount of individuals receiving assistance through their Emergency Food Program. A ‘jewel’ for Wilbraham To the editor: Monday, Nov. 30 Board of Selectmen 6 p.m. Town House By Lou Scungio Now sittin’ in some gravy with stuffin’ all around. Now restin’ an’ relaxin’ an’ turnin’ golden brown. Let’s give thanks to turkey tom whose restin’ in a skillet. Thank him for the tenderness of turkey leg an’ giblet! “ This event is a rite of passage for the Wilbraham kids at the holidays. ” Wilbraham-Hampden Rotary Club President Charles Bennett on the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony set for Sunday, Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. “ It would be hard to imagine a better friend and advocate for the town of Wilbraham. Under the picture of ‘great guy’ there is always a picture of Mike in my mind. ” Wilbraham Selectman Robert Russell on former Town Counsel Atty. Michael Hassett. Hassett, diagnosed with Alzheimer’s will be honored with a Testimonial Benefit fundraiser Wednesday, Dec. 2 at St. Cecilia’s from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Wilbraham-Hampden Times is published every Thursday by Turley Publications, Inc., 24 Water St., Palmer, Mass. 01069. Telephone (413) 283-8393, Fax (413) 289-1977. PATRICK H. TURLEY CEO KEITH TURLEY President DOUGLAS L. TURLEY Vice President EDITOR Tyler S. Witkop ADVERTISING SALES Jocelyn Walker SPORTS EDITOR Dave Forbes EDITOR EMERITUS Charles F. Bennett SOCIAL MEDIA @ Wilbraham-Hampden Times WEB www.wilbrahamtimes.com www.turley.com Turley Publications, Inc. cannot assume liability for the loss of photographs or other materials submitted for publication. Materials will not be returned except upon specific request when submitted. Editorial Policy Letters to the editor should be 350 words or less in length. No unsigned or anonymous opinions will be published. We require letter writers to include his or her town of residence and home telephone number. We must authenticate 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, unbiased sources. Send letters to: Editor, Wilbraham-Hampden Times, 2341 Boston Rd., Wilbraham, MA 01095, faxed to 413-682-0013 or via e-mail to twitkop@turley. com. The deadline for submissions is Friday at noon. Correction Policy The TIMES will gladly correct factual errors that appear in this paper and can be substantiated. Corrections or clarifications will always appear on the editorial pages. To request a correction, send information in an e-mail or mailed communication to the editor at the above address listed above. The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES is published every Thursday by Turley Publications, Inc. One year out of town subscriptions are available at $45, out of state $50 by calling 800-824-6458 Ext. 201. The deadline for submission of news material, letters to the editor and photos is Monday at 12 p.m. The TIMES is not responsible for submitted photos. The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page Talk of the TOWNS T hanksgiving is this Thursday, so I would like to share with you some questions about turkeys asked of the folks at Butterball about cooking for “Turkey Day”: Is it okay to thaw my turkey in the bathtub while bathing my kids? Can I use my oven’s selfcleaning cycle to speed up the cooking process? TALK If I cut my turkey with a columnist chain saw, will the oil affect the taste? The family dog is inside the turkey and I can’t get him out? The upcoming holiday spirit is extended to Mike Hassett of Wilbraham. Former Sen. Gale Candaras and many friends including Selectman CHARLES F. Bob Russell and Joan Paris, BENNETT are holding a testimonial for Mike who recently retired as town counsel for over 20 years. The event will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 2 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Cecilia’s Parish Center. A raffle will be held. Tickets are $30 at the door or checks in advance, made out to “Michael T. Hassett Fundraising Account” should be mailed to Ray Blair, 18 Shirley St., Chicopee, MA 01020. For details, call Gale Candaras at 599-1773. Spread the word. You know the Christmas holiday season is fast approaching when Rotary Christmas Tree Lighting co-chairs Dr. Ed McFarland and Walt Markett were stringing replacement holiday lights on the Town Christmas Tree in Crane Park last weekend. That means the Wilbraham-Hampden Rotary Club will be holding their annual Tree Lighting ceremony on Sunday, Dec 6 at 5 p.m. in Crane Park. There will be music, seasonal snacks and a surprise visit from Santa. The WilbrahamHampden Times will be co-sponsoring the event. To get in the Christmas mood the Old Post Road Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director Juli E. Sansoucy, will present a family-friendly free concert on Friday, Dec. 4 called “Home for the Holidays” at 7:30 p.m. at St. Cecilia’s. Among the many pieces to be enjoyed will be Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” and also “Songs of Chanukah”. Many of the local musicians are from Wilbraham including its founder the talented violinist Malita Brown. A nonperishable food donation will be gratefully accepted for the Community Survival Center at the concert. OPRO offers free, family concerts and educational programs held in neighborhood venues. Their mission is “Community Music at its Best!” The Wilbraham Community Chorus will hold a concert that Sunday, Dec. 6 with a 3 p.m. performance at Wilbraham United Church. Under the direction of retired Minnechaug Choral Director Raymond Drury and featuring musical accompaniment by Marcia Jackson, performances will include works from such classical composers as Bach and Vivaldi, and modern composers Stopford, Busto and Purifoy. Guest fiddler Sara Michel will perform an Appalachian medley. Performances will also include seasonal favorites and a four-hand piano arrangement featuring the talented Jackson and the dapper Todd Rovelli. A second performance will take place Saturday, Dec. 12 at the First Church of Christ in Longmeadow, also at 3 p.m. Performances are free and open to the public, but free will offerings will be accepted. Seating is limited, so early arrival is encouraged. For more information, visit wilbrahamchoralsociety.org. After the Dec. 6 concert at United Church we suggest you stroll over to the Old Meeting House, at 450 Main St., which will be open from 2 to 5 p.m. to display locally-decorated Christmas trees. There will be mulled cider and baked goods. For more information call 596- 4097. Mike St. Marie, an officer of the Minnechaug Scholarship Foundation, would like to thank scholarship sponsors, residents and businesses of Wilbraham and Hampden for their generous contributions towards the scholarships awarded to 2015 graduates of Minnechaug Regional High School. “In this past year, the Foundation awarded $48,967 to 61 deserving graduates. Over the lifetime of the Foundation, 1,494 graduates have been awarded over $868,000. Please accept our thanks for your generous donations in the past and we hope you will continue to support our foundation in the coming years,” said Mike. The American Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to give blood to help ensure a sufficient blood supply throughout the holiday season. A seasonal decline in donations often occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day when donors get busy with family gatherings and travel. Donors with all blood types are needed, and especially those with type O negative, B negative, A negative and AB. All those who come to donate Nov. 2529 will get a Red Cross mixing spoon and celebrity chef recipe set, while supplies last. Western New England University, 1215 Wilbraham Road in Springfield, will host a blood drive now through this Sunday, Nov. 29 from 1 to 7 p.m. To make an appointment download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767. Here’s a quip from late night TV funnyman Conan O’Brien: “The turkey that President Obama will pardon this thanksgiving is from California. The turkey said, “I don’t need a pardon. I need a job.” Retired Editor Emeritus Charlie Bennett writes this regular column for the Times. Please send items for the column to [email protected]. Fighting hunger in Western Massachusetts T his Thanksgiving season, I’m grateful to live in a vibrant, prosperous state and nation. Yet despite the abundance all around us, there are still too many children in our community who are going to bed without dinner. This is vital challenge we must work Beacon Hill atogether to solve. Byline Unfortunately, there is particular need in Western Massachusetts, where the hunger rate is higher than the state average. More than 210,000 people in Western Massachusetts struggle to have an adequate food supply, according to the Food By State Sen. Bank of Western MassachuEric P. Lesser setts, which provides food assistance to 15,000 local residents each week. One out of every five children in Hampden County has uncertain access to the food they need to live a healthy lifestyle. Hunger is not easy to see even among our neighbors and friends. Many families are only one illness, accident or lost job away from having enough healthy food. One-third of households needing help, for example, have at least one working adult but still do not earn enough to make ends meet. More than half must choose between paying for food and other living costs, including utilities, gas, rent, mortgage or medical care. This problem is entirely preventable. Through smart policies, we can ensure that all families have access to adequate meals during hard times, while supporting our local agricultural economy in the process. Support Local Programs A strong first step is to continue supporting our local food banks, which play a vital role in providing readily accessible resources during hard times. In the Senate, I co-sponsored a successful funding increase for the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program, which provides vital support to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and similar organizations. I also co-sponsored a measure funding the Massachusetts Food Trust Program, which ensures that citizens have access to quality food in urgent circumstances. Fostering partnerships between local food growers and nearby residents also helps fight hunger, while promoting local agriculture in the process. For this reason, I Please see LESSER, page 10 Volkswagen Audi BMW Mercedes Complete Service & Repair Delta Foreign Auto 296 East Street, Ludlow, MA 01056 (413) 583-6422 Look Fabulous For Less Wed. & Fri. 11-4, Thurs. 11-6:30, Sat. 10-3 Fight Hunger with Fashion Cinderelli’s Consignment a proud supporter of local non-profits 480 Newton Street South Hadley 413-530-0311 Community Newspaper ADVERTISING Works! Retailers and small local businesses put the lion’s share of their local advertising in newspapers. They know which media truly moves their products. Besides that, Google’s research shows that half of online shoppers are more likely to buy products they’ve seen in the paper. Saturday, November 28th is SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY! Please support the small independent businesses that are the backbone of our community. Look for the “OPEN” sign in their ads. This holiday season let them know you care by spending some of your holiday dollars locally! The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page November 26, 2015 A Community Gallery of life in Wilbraham and Hampden: TIMES photo by David Miles Here you’ll find the next installment on Greg the Barber’s window of guest photos called, “A Window on the Community.” Students give blood. Seniors bring warmth to the community. A father and son spend time in gear. Hampden celebrates Thanksgiving early. A fox goes on the prowl. Teens celebrate a birthday. Wilbraham seniors make a connection. Readers are encouraged to send in medium to high resolution photos for this page by e-mail to [email protected] or mail to TIMES, 2341 Boston Road, Wilbraham, MA 01095. Please note that if you send us a photo of the Times in different parts of the world, please include a recognizable landmark in the background. Examples: Eiffel Tower; castle in Spain. Two of a kind… TIMES photo submitted A birthday with the Times… Wilbraham teen Emily Birtwell (holding her dog, Bertha) recently celebrated her 13th birthday with family and friends, while keeping abreast of her hometown happenings. The group even spent time in a stylish pink limousine. Hampden Volunteer Firefighter Jason McCarthy holds his son Connor, wearing a firefighter costume, during the Bethlehem Baptist Church “Trunk or Treat” event Oct. 24. A Commun Life in Wilbraha Students make a differe TIMES photo by David Miles Giving thanks early… Hampden resident Doris Ouimet enjoys a Thanksgiving meal at the Hampden Senior Center Nov. 18. The lunch included a roast turkey dinner with all of the fixings, complete with apple pie for dessert. TIMES photo by David Miles A warming donation… Wilbraham seniors and Activities Coordinator Mary Ellen Schmidt of the Wilbraham Senior Center, recently knitted Livestrong scarves for the YMCA. The project was headed by Kathy Senecal. Minnechaug seniors from left Nick Taylor, Makaela Mendrala, Rachel Varney, Anna Mar and enjoy a quick snack after donating blood to the Red Cross Nov. 19 at the high sch This page is brought to you Looking For a New Dining Option? Our dining room is open to the public. Join us for Fri. Night Dinner and Sun. Breakfast! Please call for dinner reservations. Call 596-8492 859 Stony Hill Road, Wilbraham, MA The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page TIMES photo by David Miles ‘A Window on the Community’ Editor’s note: Each week we provide a glimpse at Greg the Barber’s window. This is the next in our series of photos. Greg shows his support for the recent Paris attack victims. nity Gallery am & Hampden TIMES photo submitted Fox on the prowl… A red fox, which may have mange, was recently on the prowl in the autumn sun around the bird feeder in the backyard of Wilbraham resident Elaine Holdsworth. ence… TIMES photo by David Miles Orderly fashion… TIMES photo by David Miles rie Gregory, Alex Jones, Billy Berthaud and Ani Jermakian take a moment to rehydrate hool. The drive takes place each year, coordinated by the Student Council. Hungry patrons fill their lunch plates at St. Cecilia’s Nov. 19 during the Senior Connection lunch. Hampden County Sheriff Michael Ashe Jr. (not pictured) served as the event’s guest speaker. as a c o m m u nity service b y : Sacuzzo Coffee (Hot or Iced) Lattes (Hot or Iced) Cappuccino • Smoothies Assorted Teas • Hot Chocolate Fresh Brewed Seasonal Coffees Fresh Baked Muffins New Holiday Flavors! Our coffee by the pound, gift baskets & gift certificates make great hostess gifts and stocking stuffers! 2341 Boston Road, Wilbraham ~ Wilbraham Shops 279-1700 Mon.-Fri. 7am-3pm Sat. 8am-2pm Sun. Closed Follow us on Facebook for our daily & weekly specials The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 10 November 26, 2015 Town Hall Notebook LESSER from page 7 Hampden sets tax rate, discusses enrollment issue By Tyler S. Witkop Turley Publications Staff Writer ings would be minor with the valuations in town. Had the town adopted a minimum residential factor, residential tax rates would drop below $19 to $18.75 for 125 percent or $18.14 for 150 percent factor. Commercial, industrial and personal property tax rates would jump to $24.20 and $29.04 respectively. Non-residential taxes account for 11.18 percent of all taxes in town. HAMPDEN – Always a contentious issue among residents, taxes in Hampden are set to increase nearly 2 percent for fiscal 2016, following a Tax Classification Hearing Nov. 9. The Board of Selectmen – Chairman Vincent Villamaino, John D. Flynn and Norman Charest, chairman of the Board of Assessors – met with assessors Robert Makuch and Stanley Witkop, and Principal Assessor Carolyn Reed to discuss the options available for setting the tax rate. The full tax rate is $19.36 per $1,000 of assessed value on a property, consistent with projections presented to voters at Special Town Meeting Oct. 26. Consistent with the town’s approach in years past, selectmen adopted a single tax rate at a factor of one, rejecting a residential exemption. As Reed explained, adopting a residential factor would mean “shifting the burden from lower-end homes to higher-end homes.” According to her figures, 1,316 homes would receive a decrease in their tax bills and 533 would see an increase to $25.49. She noted that the sav- Five Questions Additionally, selectmen met with resident Joe Sibilia regarding the topic of declining enrollment in the HampdenWilbraham Regional School District and the potential for closing Thornton W. Burgess Middle School. Sibilia asked each of the selectmen to respond individually to five questions he had regarding the issue. His first question was whether there has been contact with anyone regarding the purchase and sale of TWB. Unanimously, the selectmen said there had been no discussion. “The town sells town assets,” Flynn said, noting that regardless of how any official feels about a town-owned property, the only way to sell such a parcel is through Town Meet- ing. The second question asked whether they felt property values would increase, decrease or remain the same with TWB closing. Selectmen all commented that it would depend on what the alternative was. Sibilia would not accept that answer, asking them to answer the question if the school were to close. Charest replied that he felt taxes would “stay the same or trend down,” but that he couldn’t speak definitively without knowing where the students would go as result of the closure. Villamaino felt it would be likely that taxes would go down and Flynn felt they would remain the same. Sibilia next asked whether students would receive better, worse or the same services. Charest said he couldn’t answer the question without an alternative in front of him. ‘No Desire to Sell’ “Better,” Villamaino said, “from my understanding, it’ll be better if [students’ combine with Wilbraham.” Flynn, who also serves on the Middle School Task Force, said that in a larger group of students, services would improve. Sibilia also asked whether Church seeks coat donations during November WILBRAHAM – With millions of families living in poverty, the Wilbraham United Church Outreach Commission is trying to do their part to help provide a warm winter for those less fortunate. The Commission is currently teaming with One Warm Coat, a national nonprofit organization that works to provide free warm coats to any person in need of them. Coats will be donated to the Springfield Rescue Mission and local families in need can take advantage of the donations by going to that location. “We need any coat that has been gently used or is in really good condition,” Becky McCracken said. “We will also happily accept anything that is brand new and we encourage people to bring the coats down as soon as possible. The weather is already starting to get cold.” In addition to coats, One Warm Coat will also accept monetary donations. If you do not have a coat to donate, you can help provide a warmer winter by texting “WARM” to 80100 to donate $10 to One Warm Coat or by visiting www.onewarmcoat.org/donate. Time to get gifting. Order a freshly-crafted holiday gift today! they felt residents were for or against the proposal. All responded they felt Hampden residents as a whole were against the idea of merging the middle schools. “It’s hard to tell,” Villamaino said. “We haven’t heard from the parent of younger kids.” Flynn felt residents at this time were against the proposal because they hadn’t heard the full proposal outside of a shortterm merger at Wilbraham Middle School. Lastly, Sibilia asked whether they believed the process is in the town’s favor. Charest and Villamaino each said no. Flynn felt the schedule was not in the favor of Hampden. Selectmen then asked Sibilia how he felt about the situation. “I’m relying on peerreviewed research,” he said, noting he hadn’t formulated an opinion. “I have no desire to sell that school,” Villamaino said. “I have no desire to close that school.” In other news, selectmen appointed Holly Tuttle and Karen Leger to the Cultural Commission with terms expiring in 2018. Tyler S. Witkop can be reached at [email protected]. co-sponsored funding for Massachusetts “Buy Local” groups, which generate new customers for our local farmers and also provide communities with fresh local food options. Many local farms in Hampden and Hampshire Counties participate in this program. I also support our local farmers’ markets, as well as our community supported agriculture programs, where people can get help buying shares of a local farm harvest. In addition, innovative programs like the School Sprouts Educational Gardens help show our children that it’s possible to make healthy food choices even when resources are scarce. Rachel’s Table, Loaves and Fishes Kitchen, the Springfield Rescue Mission, Project Bread, Friends of the Homeless, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, the Mayflower Marathon and many other hunger-fighting efforts further help those among us struggling to keep food on the table. Together, we can and must ensure that one of the most basic necessities of life is accessible to all families, both during the holiday season and at all other times of the year. I’m proud to champion those efforts at the Statehouse. State Sen. Eric P. Lesser represents the First Hampden and Hampshire District in the state legislature, which includes Hampden and Wilbraham. He can be reached at 617-7221291. Quaboag Hills Chamber to hold holiday celebration PALMER – The Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce announced a Holiday Celebration will take place on Thursday, Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Palmer Historical and Cultural Center, 2072 Main St. Hors d’oeuvres will be served along with beer and wine available, and musical entertainment throughout the evening. The hall will be decorated for Christmas with trees and wreaths. All trees and wreaths will be raffled off to the public on Monday, Dec. 8. Cost is $25 and all proceeds will go to the Palmer Historical and Cultural Center. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at patty@ qhma.com. BEST BREAKFAST IN WESTERN MA! 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All rights reserved ® ® Rt. 181, Palmer Street Palmer, MA 413-289-6359 www.burgundybrook.com Burgundy Brook Cafe The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page 11 Students experience stock market firsthand By Tony Fimognari Turley Publications Staff Intern SPRINGFIELD – Bustling people push through the crowd, screaming to purchase or sell stocks in order to make a profit before the bell rings to end the day. The Junior Achievement Stock Market Competition has always been an exciting and interactive activity for students to experience the feeling of Wall Street. On Thursday, Oct. 29, more than 120 student teams from 20 schools including Minnechaug Regional High School, were invited to take part in the Junior Achievement Stock Market Competition at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. “It was interesting to experience the stock market in a handson type of way,” Minnechaug student Christine Mayotte said. “I enjoy learning about the stock market in the classroom but experiencing it is way more exciting and fun.” All of the student teams not only experienced an accurate representation of the New York Stock Exchange, but competed against each other as well. At the competition, each team is given 60 days to invest $1 million in companies and stocks in order to amass the highest net worth. However, the event could not possibly go on for 60 days. Each day is represented by one minute and consequently the event takes TIMES photo by Tony Fimognari Minnechaug students Christine Mayotte and Natalia Skoczylas competed at this year’s Junior Achievement Stock Market Competition, supervised by Minnechaug Business and Personal Finance teacher Michael Scanlon. only an hour. Other aspects of the competition help the experience feel more real as well. Students are given tips and news that affect the stock market on screens mounted all over the walls, just like on the real stock exchange. These tips and news influence the teams’ decision on whether to buy or sell a stock. Last year, Minnechaug won first place in the entire competition. This year, Minnechaug failed to place in the top three, which are those that receive trophies, however, all teams from Minnechaug finished in the top half of all schools entered in the competition. Learning Experience The Business and Personal Finance class at Minnechaug PNA to host Christmas party and annual meeting CHICOPEE – Lodge 711 of the Polish National Alliance will hold its annual meeting and election of officers on Sunday, Dec. 6 at noon. The meeting will be immediately followed by the Christmas party with dinner served at 2 p.m. at the Pulaski Club. The Christmas party will feature the singing of Polish and English Christmas carols led by Janina and Bridget. Refreshments will be available as well as presents for members from birth to 14 years, which will be distributed by Santa. For more information, call Gilbert Sherman at 596-9578. Regional High School has a curriculum that covers how to manage a business, invest in stocks, understand the stock market, and comprehend different aspects of the economy both locally and globally. Michael Scanlon, Minnechaug Business and Personal Finance teacher, believes that overall, the experience the students take away from the simulation is the most important aspect “A Gift of Light to Reflect Life’s Milestones” Reflections by Claudia features several lines of Tiffany inspired lighting products that are made with high-end art glass. Each piece brings the beauty of the glass and luminous qualities of light together with the powerful emotion associated with the remembering of a loved one. Where flowers have traditionally been given, these lamps offer a unique, lasting alternative that will be fondly remembered for years to come. Each gift is beautifully gift wrapped and comes with a personalized card. The experience of giving a gift of light to your loved ones will forever be remembered. ‘Yuletide at Storrowton’ kicks off with performances WEST SPRINGFIELD – The Storrowton Village Museum on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition will host “Yuletide at Storrowton” on Saturday, Dec. 5. The event will feature many musical performances beginning at 11 a.m. the Huntington Dance Center will perform “Winter’s Mitten.” At noon, Hampden’s Barbara Bennett will perform and organ recital. Finally, Alice Moore Golden Bell Chorus will perform at 1 p.m. On Sunday, Dec. 6, the musical perfor- because it enhances the learning process through a unique and complex teaching method. As students enter into the real world, they will all have to face one common issue, money. Investing in the stock market and understanding how it works is important when trying to manage one’s personal finances. The Junior Achievement Stock Market Competition not only enhances the class experience of the Business and Personal Finance class at Minnechaug but enriches children with valuable skills they will use for a lifetime, he noted. “The course teaches the students all about managing finances and investing in companies intelligently,” Scanlon explained. “The stock market, obviously, has a lot to do with investing money. That is why the competition serves as a great experience for all the students as they apply what they have learned in the class.” It can be hard to understand a concept, such as economics or the stock market, if it is only being taught in the classroom and not being experienced in real life scenarios. The Junior Achievement Stock Market Challenge creates an opportunity for students to get out of the classroom and witness what they are learning first hand. “It’s nice to apply the knowledge we learn in class to the real world and see it pay off,” Mayotte said. “It’s not something that we get to do in every class.” mances will only continue. At 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., Rick Spencer will perform music from the American traditions of the 19th century and Paul Kaplan will perform seasonal songs with winter’s theme, respectively. Yuletide will also include ice sculpting demonstrations on Sunday, Dec. 6, handson children’s crafts, blacksmithing, quilting and a petting zoo. For more information, call the Village at 205-5051 or visit www.thebige.com. Gregory’s Restaurant and Pizza Pub FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1972 Our kitchen will be fully operational and OPEN FOR BUSINESS VERY SOON! Join us in our new bar Thanksgiving weekend for your homecoming get together. 2391 BOSTON ROAD WILBRAHAM, MA Gregory’s Gift Certificates make great stocking stuffers and gifts! 596-6168 • 596-3500 The Season of Lights is a time to remember those we love. We are proud to participate in Small Business Saturday 23 N. Main Street, East Longmeadow • 413.526.9792 Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5:30; Thurs. 9:30-7:00; Fri. 9:30-5:30; Sat. 9-4 www.reflectionsbyclaudia.com The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 12 November 26, 2015 Vandals break into United Church Two arrested, arraigned Monday By Tyler S. Witkop Turley Publications Staff Writer WILBRAHAM – Two teens broke into Wilbraham United Church Friday night, breaking three windows and causing damage to the Youth Room. Dianne Lyons, public relations coordinator for the church, said that the vandals used a brick to smash through one window and a fire extinguisher through another, releasing the contents inside the Youth Room, destroying most of the material inside. The church’s fire alarm sounded as a result of the particles released into the air from the extinguisher, she said. The break-in occurred around 6:30 p.m. Wilbraham Police and Fire units responded to the scene, as well as church Superintendent William Howell. K-9 Officer Joseph Brewer was the responding officer, receiving assistance on scene from Capt. Robert Zollo, Sgt. Jeffrey Rudinski and Officer Christian Letendre. Wilbraham Police Sgt. Daniel Carr said that two juveniles were caught and arrested in connection to the crime on charges of breaking and entering in the nighttime with intent to commit a felony and malicious damage over $250. They also face penalties for the discharge of a fire extinguisher. As juveniles, the names of the suspects cannot be released. As the Times went to press, the two were to be arraigned in Springfield Juvenile Court on Monday, Carr said. “Apparently, one of the kids dropped his phone when the alarm sounded,” Lyons said. She explained that one of the officers found the phone and called the person’s home, leading to a confession. Lyons commented that the damage to the church is The Wonders of Christmas at The Bird Store & More • • • • Bird Houses Gift Certificates Bird Seed & Feeders Wind Chimes and so much more in the thousands of dollars and that their insurance deductible is $5,000, putting a strain on the church’s finances. In total, vandals broke four windows she said. For her, the disturbing part of the ordeal is that she noticed a group of four teens hanging around the church parking lot around the time she locked and left the facility around 6 p.m. The break-in and vandalism occurred shortly after she left for the evening. “What do they have to gain from this,” she asked. “We’re a church; we’re here to help people.” She said that in recent years, the church has unfortunately had to remove certain pieces of children’s equipment and other items on the premises due to other acts of vandalism. Echoing the Sunday sermon from the church’s temporary pastor, Rev. Tom Howells, who previously served Hampden’s Federated Community Church, she said: “We’re praying for their reformation.” The crime remains under investigation by Brewer. Anyone with information may call the department at 596-3837. Our advertisers make this publication possible. 4 Cedar St., Sturbridge 508-347-BIRD (2473) www.thebirdstoreandmore.com Let them know you saw their ad in the Wilbraham Hampden Times SUNDAY BINGO LUDLOW ELKS 69 Chapin St., Ludlow 50/50 Elks • Jackpot PROGRESSIVE GAME Th ank You Thank You TIMES photo courtesy Dianne Lyons Local juveniles broke into Wilbraham United Church Friday night, causing damage to four windows. The Ludlow Lodge of Elks would like to thank the local businesses that donated to our Annual Turkey Raffle. The winners greatly appreciated your gifts. Thank you, William Donati, Exalted Ruler Don Conner, Co-Chairman PEOPLE/ MILESTONE NEWS As a free service for our readers, we will print all births, weddings, engagements, milestone anniversaries, major birthdays, military achievements, honors and awards. We have a “people news” form available for you to submit these listings. This material is provided to us by our readers and local institutions and we do not charge to print this content. For more information, or to submit people or milestone news for Wilbraham Hampden Times, please email [email protected]. DOORS OPEN 4 pm • Kitchen Opens 4:30 pm GAMES START AT 6:00 PM 589-1189 Monson Arts Council presents its 37th Annual HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH 9 AM - 4:30 PM SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH NOON - 4:30 PM 85 Exhibitors in Five Buildings in Easy Walking Distance Main Street (Route 32), Monson, MA MA pike Exit 8, 32 south - Free Admission - For More Information Call 413-364-9413 Buy One, Get One FREE Visit the Publick House on any Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday for Lunch or Dinner Offer valid on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Not valid with any other coupon, discount or promotion. Not applicable to groups or private events. Lower priced entree will be complimentary. This certificate has no cash value. Excludes all holidays. *Offer ends 12/30/15. Gift Certificates Available! ON THE COMMON, ROUTE 131 | STURBRIDGE | 508-347-3313 |www.publickhouse.com The Wilbraham-Hampden Times is now on Facebook. Go to www.facebook.com/wilbrahamhampdentimes and “like” us. The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page 13 National Grid encourages educated consumers WALTHAM, Mass. – As the beginning of the winter approaches, National Grid customers may be contacted with offers to buy electricity from another supplier. Before making a decision, National Grid encourages consumers to educate themselves. New electricity supply prices, reflected in the “Supply Services” section of the monthly electricity bill, took effect Nov. 1 and because of this, customers may receive solicitations from alternate energy suppliers with offers to purchase electricity on their behalf at a lower price. National Grid encourages customers to consider all available energy supply options at www. ngrid.com/masschoice. “An alternate electricity supplier is an option for our customers to consider,” Marcy Reed, president of National Grid in Massachusetts and a Wilbraham resident, said. “I encourage anyone considering this to simply read the fine print. And know that whether you choose an alternate supplier or not, National Grid will deliver your electricity safely and reliably, respond to service and emergency needs, and restore power during storms.” Beware of Scams The utility said it has re- ceived isolated reports that some energy salespeople have been presenting themselves as National Grid employees. These representatives are not from National Grid as the company does not conduct sales door-to-door or over the phone, nor does it offer residential equipment inspection and maintenance service. National Grid said its employees and contractors have visible photo identification badges with the company logo and wear uniforms with the company name and logo when conducting routine or emergency services for residences and businesses. Most, but not all, National Grid employees also travel in clearly Help bring joy to nursing home patients HAMPDEN – The Hampden Senior Center knitting and quilting groups have made holiday stockings for the residents of Wingate at Hampden and are now seeking help filling the stockings full of holiday goodies. Suggested items are toothbrushes, toothpaste, combs, nail files, hand lotion, tissue packets, hand sanitizer bottles, candy canes, chocolates and peanut butter crackers. Donations can be dropped off at the Hampden Senior Center by Tuesday, Dec. 1. For more information, call Wendy at 5665588. Noah Lis to visit St. Cecilia’s WILBRAHAM – St. Cecilia Parish announced a liturgy and dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 8. Local singer Noah Lis, of Palmer, will entertain those in attendance with holiday songs. Contact Norma Bandarra at 596-8173 for more information or for reservations. Digging for Delight… Members of the Wilbraham Garden Club Flower Arranger’s group recently planted 50 daffodil bulbs at Sevey Park in memory of Delight Rothery. From left are Pat Stoeber, Diantha Ferrier of Ludlow, and Pat Tutty. Rothery was a long-time member of the group. Gently Used Children’s Clothing, Footwear, Toys, Books & Baby Equipment COUPON 20% OFF (Clothing & Expires 12/31/15. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Shoes Only!) HURLEY’S CHILDREN’S COTTAGE Located at The Wilbraham Shops 2341 Boston Rd, Wilbraham, MA Christina Nails Professional Nail Care ! l a i c e p S y a d i Hol Manicure & f $10 Of e Combos r Pedicudays, Tuesdays on Mon sdays! 9/16) ne & Wed(Promotion ends 2/2 Our gift certificates make great gifts for anyone, stop in today! 413-279-1707 2133 Boston Post Road, Wilbraham, MA 01095 (Eastwood Shops Plaza) Mon. 10-5; Tues. 10-6; Wed. 10-5 Thurs. 10-6; Fri. 10-5; Sat. 10-5; Sun. Closed UCK REALLY D B OE UR Buy S O Y local FIRST STOP HERE! For every $100 spent locally... SUPPORT COMMUNITY BUSINESSES representative. Payment can also be made by credit card or debit card without a representative’s assistance. Customers who have received calls demanding immediate payment and are asked for bank account information should contact National Grid immediately. To very information and for any billing-related questions in New England, customers should call National Grid’s Customer Contact Center at 800322-3223. Customers looking for help with their energy bills may explore billing options and energy efficiency opportunities at www. ngrid.com/billhelp. TIMES photo submitted Hurley’s Children’s Cottage Like Us on facebook.com/Hurley’s Children’s Cottage marked National Grid vehicles. Customers should always ask to see the identification of anyone attempting to gain entrance to their home – especially if they did not initiate a service call. If someone requesting entry into your home or place of business does not show an ID card, do not let them in, National Grid suggests. National Grid does contact customers with past due balances by phone to offer payment options, but never demands direct payment over the telephone. If customers wish, they can arrange for a payment by check, credit card or debit card if they speak directly to a customer service • Local Independent Businesses give back $68 to the local economy. • Corporate chain stores give back only $43. • Businesses outside of Western Mass give back $0. By shopping locally... 1.) YOU keep dollars in Wilbraham & Hampden. 2.) YOU embrace what makes us unique. 3.) YOU create local jobs. 4.) YOU help the environment. 5.) YOU build our community. 6.) YOU conserve your tax dollars. 7.) YOU create more choices. 8.) YOU receive local expertise. 9.) YOU invest in local entrepreneurs. 10.) YOU make Wilbraham & Hampden a destination. Hours: Mon.-Fri.10am-6:30pm • Sat. 10am-5pm • Closed Sun. Walk-Ins Welcome (413) 599-4918 Appointments Suggested The New Gio’s Lounge is Open! Expanded Dining, Full Bar & 6 TVs! FREE DELIVERY! FREE DELIVERY! 27 99 $ 99 27 Cheese Pizza Large Large $ Cheese Pizza 10 Wings & 2 Liter Soda Plus Tax Plus Tax 10 Wings & 2· Liter Soda Gio’s 413-566-8015 Gio’s · 413-566-8015 With Coupon • Cannot Combine with Any Other Offers • Expires 12/31/15 5 OFF $ $a $35 Order With Coupon • Cannot Combine with Any Other Offers • Expires 12/31/15 5 OFF a 35 Order Gio’s · 413-566-8015 $ With Coupon • Cannot Combine with Any Other Offers • Expires 12/31/15 9 Allen St. • Hampden Mini Mall • Hampden, MA (413) 566-8015 Gio’s · 413-566-8015 Open 7 Days | www.giospizzeria.com With With Coupon Coupon •• Cannot Cannot Combine Combine with with Any Any Other Other Offers Offers •• Expires Expires 12/31/15 12/31/15 9 Allen St. • Hampden Mini Mall • Hampden, MA (413) 566-8015 Open 7 Days | www.giospizzeria.com The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 14 November 26, 2015 Community Survival Center delivers non-perishable packages of hope 30. CENTER from page 1 this tends to be a particularly busy time of year with donations accumulating, what these newspapers learned was that some of those holiday staples required to make a full meal weren’t among the more popular items collected at the many drives throughout the community. “I’m kind of panicked right now,” Michelle Levrault, assistant director of the Community Survival Center said looking at the nearly-empty shelf of items as one of the volunteers plucked the final can of yams to be packed for delivery. She also explained that while the shelves are almost considered a revolving door with donations trickling in and the need being portioned out, there is never a shortage of need for food items. While donations are heaviest around Thanksgiving and Christmas, and to a lesser extent Easter, Levrault noted that hunger doesn’t stop after the holidays. “People need to eat every day,” she said. Feeding the Need At the start of last week, the shelves were stocked to the gills, but just a few days in, they were empty again. “The need has certainly grown quite a bit,” Levrault said. The Community Survival Center’s Food Pantry has four distinct programs, which offer assistance to qualifying at-risk TIMES staff photo by Emily Thurlow Melissa Torres of Indian Orchard checks the dates on the numerous donations that were recently received before stacking them on their shelves. individuals through the Emergency Food, Preschool, Senior Outreach, and Holiday Food programs. They service residents within the communities of Ludlow, Wilbraham, Hampden, and the Indian Orchard, Sixteen Acres, and Pine Point neighborhoods of Springfield. To apply to be a recipient of some of the donations, applicants need only a verification of address with a recent piece of postmarked mail for all adults within the household, verification of total month- ly income, and a rent receipt, mortgage statement, or property bill. Applicants’ income must fall under the USDA guidelines. Each household is given between 10 to 12 pounds a food, per person. Singles or a couple receive 18 to 21 pounds per household. Recently, Levrault and Madden shared that there are already 150 new families added to the recipients list since the start of this fiscal year and approximately 40 new families a month. Through the recent experi- ence, it was apparent that those numbers rang particularly true as heads of the households waited in a packed hallway for their turn. Through the Emergency Food program, Jacqueline Madden, director of the Community Survival Center, said qualified individuals are offered a fiveday supply of necessary grocery items, including meats. Families may be a recipient of up to six “Emergency Food” visits during their fiscal year – July 1 to June “While we recommend people spread those visits out, when you have people who haven’t eaten regularly in a while, they’ll use up those emergencies all at once,” she said. With the preschool program, there are 20 nutritious breakfasts, lunches, healthy snacks, and milk – when available – and juice, in the form of bagged groceries. This program is available to any family participating in the Emergency Food program. Families commit to picking up the food once a month until the child is old enough to attend school full time. The Senior Outreach program offers 12, 20- to 22-pound bags of food to any and all senior households. “This program does not have any geographic restriction to the program,” said Levrault. Both Madden and Levrault had started with the intention of just donating a “little time” to their endeavors at the center, but after a combined more than 40 years there, it is apparent that their giving fills a need within them as well. “We put together well-balanced meals and have helped a number of families over the years, but there’s a special kind of joy you get when you make a child’s day,” Levrault said, recalling two different occasions that the center was donated some cookies and cakes. “That little boy’s face when he looked in the Please see HOPE, page 15 You are cordially invited to attend the Wilbraham Christmas Tree Lighting a community-wide Holiday Event SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 at 5 PM in CRANE PARK ❆ Greetings from Town Officials and Clergy ❆ Holiday Music ❆ Surprise Visitor from the North Pole ❆ Refreshments Sponsored by the Wilbraham-Hampden Rotary Club, The Wilbraham-Hampden Times, Luso Credit Union, and Landmark Realtors The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 HOPE from page 14 bag and saw the cookies on top: ‘Mom! Those are for us?’ Or when one of our volunteers heard that it was a little girl’s birthday and we gave her a cake and sang to her…it’s the satisfaction of knowing you helped someone, in some small way. That’s why I do what I do.” Give So Others Can Get At the heart of the Community Survival Center is its Bridge of Hope Thrift Shop, open to the public Monday through Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Goods ranging from men’s and women’s fashions, handbags, shoes and household items are available. The items, which come to the center in the form of donations, are priced by-thepiece, in many cases $2. Additionally, for individuals experiencing a financial hardship, there is the Clothing and Household Goods Program. Folks purchase a grocery bag for $3 or $5, depending on individual need, and fill the bag with all of the items they wish. Household goods are organized separately as there is associated sales tax. To register into the program, one only needs to present a form of picture identification. Madden explained that each donation is separated upon de- TIMES staff photo by Emily Thurlow A lone can of cranberry sauce sits on the near-empty shelf at the Community Survival Center. livery by a survival center volunteer and any electronic item is tested to ensure it works. Most of the high quality articles of adult clothing go to the thrift shop, while every article of children’s clothing goes directly to the program because there are so few donations and such a high level of need for the items. “The [clothing] donation room is the room that needs the most help,” Madden said, noting that there is a continuous flow of staff and volunteer helpin to sort through food items. “We’re always looking for more volunteers.” She commented that there are community groups, like Wilbraham & Monson Academy, that regularly contribute vol- unteer help. Academy students come on a weekly basis to help hang clothing in the thrift shop she said. The need for help, she said, is never ending. In the two hours of volunteering and interviewing, staff and volunteers never stopped opening plastic trash bags filled with clothing and other items. And while their hands feverishly worked to put the donations into organized piles and rolling canvas bins, there was no shortage of community members pulling up to the rear of the building with more items. Madden noted that like their food pantry, almost every donation will go to use. As with spoiled or pet food, there are exceptions to items they can and will sell. Weapons, for instance, are such items they do not accept. Others they will not accept include large appliances, bicycles, air conditioners, baby items – like car seats and strollers, stereo equipment, televisions, monitors, toys and power tools. All of the thrift shop and clothing program purchases directly fund the food bought by the center at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Those purchases supplement and fill in the gaps of food donations from the community. Behind the thrift shop, workers sort through a mountain of canned and boxed goods to fill the shelves of the food pan- Page 15 try, which fills a space roughly as large as the average living room of a suburban home. Cans of beans, vegetables and tuna, and jars of peanut butter, amount for the bulk of the current donations. Lacking is pasta, rice, canned meat and chunky soup. Peanut butter is always in need they said. As fast as the items hit the shelves, they disappear, going to local families in need. Levrault and Madden commented that full shelves will last two weeks at the most with the amount of people in need growing each month. Levrault said that there is a misconception that those who seek help are doing so because they are lazy or aren’t working hard. “That’s simply not the case,” she said. “If people didn’t have to be here, they wouldn’t be.” She noted that these people are family, friends and neighbors making tough decisions whether to eat or have a place to live. “I think everyone should experience the needs of the community through volunteering. Before I came here I’d hear about people in need,” Levrault said. “Just seeing the amount of need … is eye opening.” To donate time, money, food, or goods, contact the Community Survival Center at 413543-3930 or visit communitysurvivalcenter.org. Monson Savings Bank presents… Helping to protect your retirement income for life ! * A complimentary workshop, open to the public, sponsored by Monson Savings. SUPPORT COMMUNITY BUSINESSES Mack Mikaelian Featuring expert Mack Mikaelian, Divisional Vice President, SunAmerica Retirement Markets. PEOPLE/ MILESTONE NEWS As a free service for our readers, we will print all births, weddings, engagements, milestone anniversaries, major birthdays, military achievements, honors and awards. We have a “people news” form available for you to submit these listings. This material is provided to us by our readers and local institutions and we do not charge to print this content. For more information, or to submit people or milestone news for Wilbraham Hampden Times, please email [email protected]. Tuesday, December 1, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at The Hampden Senior Center, 104 Allen Street, Hampden A light buffet supper will be served. Reservations are required. Please call Anna Calvanese at 413-267-1221 to RSVP. for Your inancial Future F Investment and insurance products and services are offered through INFINEX INVESTMENTS, INC. Member FINRA/SIPC. Monson Savings Bank is a subsidiary of Monson Financial Services. Infinex is not affiliated with either entity. Products and services made available through Infinex are not insured by the FDIC or any other agency of the United States and are not deposits or obligations of nor guaranteed or insured by any bank or bank affiliate. These products are subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of value. *Protections and guarantees made by the claims paying ability of SunAmerica. Page 16 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 8 [email protected] @turleysports www.turleysports.com Page 17 acebook.com/turleysports SPORTS Minnechaug’s Molly Serra (15) steps into a kick with her right foot. Tomahawks chop down Falcons By Nate Rosenthal Turley Publications Sports Correspondent WESTFIELD - The Minnechaug girls soccer team had a wonderful run in 2015, but it came to an end with a 2-1 loss to Central champion, Algonquin in the Division 1 state semifinals played at Westfield State. The inning goal for the Tomahawks came with just 3:55 remaining in regulation. While ending a season in this manner is always a disappointment, that the Falcons made it as far as they did was in and of itself a great accomplishment. The Falcons finished their regular season with a 13-23 record, earning the second seed in the West Division 1 bracket. They were also second in the Coombs Conference at 4-2-2. Along the Falcons place second at Championships By Nate Rosenthal Turley Publications Sports Correspondent CHICOPEE - The Minnechaug gymnastics team gave perennial power a good run at the PVIAC championships last week. But they fell short and finished second, 136.450 to 134.025. For Westfield, it was the ninth championship in a row. The Falcons, as a team won two of the four events and were second in another. Westfield was the top team in the other. On the uneven parallel bars, the Bombers won with 34.225 over Hampshire, who came in at 32.450. Minnechaug was third with 31.550. The Bombers were winners on the balance beam scoring 34.725 to beat out Minnechaug, whose score was 33.900. Agawam placed third at 32.225. Minnechaug was a winner in the vault with 33.350. That just edged out Westfield’s 33.200. Hampshire was third with 32.900. They also won the floor exercise with 35.225. Westfield was second with 34.275 and Hampshire, 34.220, was third. Rounding out the teams were Hampshire in third place with 130.475, Chicopee Comp, next at 126.100 and Agawam, fifth at 123.625. Westfield gymnasts were winners in three of the four way, Minnechaug beat Agawam, the #10 team, 3-2; West Springfield, the third seed, 1-0 in overtime; Ludlow, the top seed, 1-0 with 9 seconds left in that game. Their two losses came against Ludlow and Westside. Minnechaug made it by strength of their defense, allowing just 16 goals in 18 regular season games and then two in the three postseason matches. The Falcons had eight shutouts during the regular season and allowed more than one goal in just three contests. Please see FALCONS, page 18 Turley Publications photo by David Henry sweetdogphotos.com Please see TEAM, page 18 Warriors tip Falcons in Whips opener By Gregory A. Scibelli Turley Publications Sports Correspondent WEST SPRINGFIELD – For Tantasqua, they made the hour-long drive to West Springfield to enjoy some good preseason competition. Minnechaug was already in midseason form and felt like it was the Western Mass. finals when the game went to overtime. But it was the excited Warriors that prevailed by a 5-2 margin in overtime to advance into the quarterfinals 34-31 over Minnechaug on Tuesday night in the 28th Annual Whip’s Sporting Goods High School Girls Basketball Tip-Off Classic held at the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club. Emma Boland, Gabby Roberts, and Sylvia Wong were the key components of overtime for the Warriors. Wong would begin the overtime immediately and take a tip-off from Roberts and got to the basket. She was fouled Turley Publications photos by Gregory A. Scibelli The Falcons’ Kara Gasieyer takes the ball down the court. and made both free throws to give Tantasqua the lead. Roberts would make another free throw to give the Warriors a three-point lead. The Falcons’ Saida Gamiclonia would deliver a layup to bring her team within one at 32-31. But Boland would nail a hook shot with 26 seconds remaining to make it a four-point game. The Falcons would call timeout with about six seconds remaining to develop a play for a three-pointer. But a pass was stolen and the Warriors picked up the victory. Coach Deb Adams said the Warriors have been coming out from Central Mass. for several years because the competition in the tournament was been enjoyable. “We participate in a lot of things around here,” she said. “The girls really enjoy coming out here and seeing the competition. We have a lot of fun here.” Jim Whipple, whose business sponsors the tournament, also was at the helm of the Falcons’ team. He joked that after 28 years, he has never won the tournament, but still enjoys sponsoring the teams so they Please see BALL, page 18 Turley Publications submitted photo Wilbraham U12 boys take home title WILBRAHAM - Wilbraham U12 boys soccer competed in Gateway and won the championship, 2-1. Mike Pelletier scored and Nick Guidi scored the winning goal with 6:00 left in the championship game. The team had an undefeated season 10-0-3. Pictured front row (from left to right): Michael Nordstrom, Nick Guidi, Ryan Peabody, Cade Norris, Anthony Amato, Mason Dean and Austin Monteiro. Back row: assistant coach Chris Norris, Sam Sibilia, Parker Donahue, Mike Pelletier, Jake Girhiny, Geno Fachetti, Jace Falcone and head coach Bret Guidi. Page 18 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 FALCONS from page 17 Their semifinals opponent, Algonquin, was the winner of the Mid-Wachusett Conference at 7-0 and 17-1 overall in the regular season. While they were known for their offense, scoring 78 regular season goals, they were equally strong on defense, giving up just 15. That was an average better than a 4-1 score per game. After the Tomahawks swept through the playoffs, their national ranking improved from 25th to 11th as they came to Westfield to face the Falcons. Algonquin is truly a powerhouse. It was against this team that Minnechaug was trying to get to a second state final in three years. While they did not make that, the Falcons had given up just one goal to the Tomahawks through 86 minutes of play. The game winner was a low 22-yard shot through a screen that flew past Minnechaug keeper, Tamra Zippin. Over the final four minutes, the Tomahawks were able to hold off the Falcons. “This was disappointing,” said coach Nundi Goncalves. “It always is when your season comes to and end like this. But someone has to win and someone has to lose. The girls gave it everything they had and we were almost there. No one gave us much of a chance, but we took it as far as we could. I am proud of the team.” As far as play on the field was concerned, Algonquin controlled it throughout. They were especially strong in the first half, when they took a 1-0 lead into the break. The Tomahawks had eight shots, four of which were on goal. The Falcons had just three and only one was close enough to be recorded as save. Their goal came with just under 13:00 to go in the half. That trend continued into the second half and it was not until the 22nd minute that Minnechaug had even one BALL from page 17 can get some touches on the basketball. “It was a great game,” he said. “We had a little bit of everything. We had some leads, we were down, and had some overtime and special plays. This was a varsity-level game and that’s what we want to have for the girls to get them ready for the season.” Whipple said heading in, he felt he had an advantage with fresh athletes, as none of his players were coming off playing soccer with the Western Massachusetts Division I champions. Tantasqua led most of the game, holding a 10-4 lead after one quarter. The Falcons continuously came back every time, with a 15-15 halftime scores. The third quarter brought little scoring, but the Warriors pulled ahead 20-17, and held a slight advantage throughout the fourth quarter before the Falcons tied the score 29-29. Tantasqua moved on to the quarterfinals against South Hadley. The Falcons, meanwhile, have an opportunity to play in the preliminary game before the finals after only losing by three points. Gregory A. Scibelli is a sports correspondent for Turley Publications. He can be reached at [email protected]. Minnechaug’s Molly Roy (19) pushes the ball up the field. shot on or near the goal. Algonquin had five by that time. After starting to assert themselves on offense after that first shot, the Falcons tied the game in the 67th minute of the game. They kept up the pressure and had a few opportunities to take the lead. But in the end, it was Algonquin that got the big score. The first shot of the game was a 25-yarder in the fourth minute by Katherine Hostage on goal for a Zippin save. In the sixth, Caroline Leonard was wide right from 15 yards and two minutes after that Hostage sent a 20-yarder to the right as well. The Tomahawks got a corner kick in the 10th minute and that was followed by a Leonard header that was just to the right of the goal from eight yards. It was not until the 14th minute that Minnechaug had even an attempt. That came on a Jaileen Goncalves 20 yard shot that went wide right. In the 17th, Molly Serra, sent one from 15 yards to the right. The first save by Lauren Cammarano was on a 15-yard shot by Ryann Kuhn, Rachel Granger starts a fast break down the right side. who had just entered the game in the 19th minute. The Tomahawks cleared and got a shot on Zippin, an 8-yarder by Leonard. They kept the ball in the Minnechaug zone and while no shots were produced for some time, the pressure was there. After a clear past midfield, Algonquin came right back. Annemarie Moy sent a lead pass from her side of the 50 down the middle. Sydney Carney caught up with it at the 25 and dribbled another 10 yards. Zippin came out and collided with Carney, The shot got off and it went slowly into the left corner. The time was 27:45 and Algonquin had a 1-0 lead. Carney had the goal and Moy, the assist. Minnechaug had a chance in the 31st minute as Kuhn was wide right with a 20-yarder. A minute after that, Leonard sent one on goal from 12 yards. There were no more shots over the final 8:00 of the half. The possession dominance continued into the second half. In the first 50 seconds, Moy was just wide to the left from 12 yards. In the 11th, a corner kick found Hostage at the 10 and her shot hit the crossbar. The Tomahawks had another corner in the 13th minute. There was also a shot through the crease in the 18th, but no one was there to retrieve it. It was the 22nd minute when Minnechaug got their first shot on goal in the half. Vanessa Chiarella was stopped by Cammarano from 15 yards. Then in the 24th, it was Serra and an 18-yard shot that Cammarano saved. It was back at the other end in the 26th minute, as a Leonard 15yarder was stopped by Zippin. Minnechaug then cleared and kept up some pressure once they got to the other end. From just outside the box Serra lofted a ball towards the goal. Gon- TEAM from page 17 events plus their athletes placed first and second in the all around. Their best event was the uneven parallel bars where four of their six entries placed in the scoring. Emma Kotfila was tied for first with Nicholas Hoskin, both scoring, 8.850. Second was Liz Walker at 8.550. The Bombers also had third and fifth in this apparatus. On the balance beam they went 1-2 with Kotfila at 9.025 and Walker at 8.850. Two more placed in fifth and sixth. Westfield also got a first on the vault, as Liz Walker, 9.020, beat Sarah O’Brien and Autumn Bradway, both of Minnechaug, who scored 8.7. Haleigh Lepage of Chicopee Comp won the floor exercise over O’Brien, 9.000 to 8.950. Walker, 35.050, edged out Kotfila, 34.725, in the all around. Minnechaug was represented by nine athletes, three of which competed in all three events, O’Brien, Bradway and Tessa Lopez. O’Brien finished in a tie with Bradway in the vault, each scoring 8.7 and she was second on floor exercise at 8.950, as well. She placed fourth on the bars with a score of 8.300, but fell to 10th on the balance beam with a score of 8.125. Her overall score of 34.175 was good enough to finish third in calves got it on the bounced and had enough control to send it past Cammarano from 8 yards. That goal came at 27:48 of the second half, in the 68th minute of the game. The score was tied and momentum was shifting. Minnechaug kept the ball in and in the next 3:00, they had two more shots on goal. In the 28th, it was Serra from 12 yards. In fact, Cammarano could not handle it cleanly and it bounced back onto the field. In the 30th minute, she had cleaner save on Kuhn fro 18 yards. The Tomahawks were able to clear and they started setting up in the 35th minute. With 3:55 remaining, MacKenzie Smith picked up a loose ball at the 25yard line and drove it low and toward the left corner. Zippin never saw it until it was by her, as it stayed low to the ground. A minute after the goal, she had to make a save on a 20 yard shot by Leonard. The Falcons last chances came with just under 2:00 to play. Madison Bonavita was wide right from 12 and Chiarella was on goal from 10. But that was it and seconds later, the Tomahawks stormed the field to celebrate. While the first half and a good part of the second was dominated by Algonquin, the Falcons closed the statistical gap considerably in the second half. They had seven second half shots and six were on goal. Cammarano saved five after the break. Algonquin had eight in the second half, three of which were goal. Unfortunately, one of those was a goal. A great season for the Falcons had come to an end. Nate Rosenthal is a sports correspondent for Turley Publications. He can be reached at [email protected]. the all around to the two Westfield athletes. Bradway, along with her second place tie with O’Brien, was fourth on the balance beam, 8.600, and fifth on the floor, 8.825. She was 15th on the bars with a 7.100. With 33.225, Bradway was fifth in the all around. Lopez top finish was fourth on floor, 8.850 and she was eighth on the beam with 8.250. With a 7.400 on the bars and 7.650 on vault, she was 12th and 14th. Lopez scored 32.150 all around points and finished eighth. Calli Murray did three events, vault, 7.9500- ninth; beam, 8.00012th; bars 7.350-13th. Also doing three was Madolyn Salvatore. She did the beam, 8.750- third; bars, 8.400-4th; floor, 8.6008th. Yaritza Toledo did the vault, 8.000- eighth and also the floor, 8.050-18th. It was two for Anna Moraitis. beam, 8.300-seventh and floor, 8.300-14th. Lydia Ryan did the bars, 6.900-17th and McKenzie Courtney did the vault, 7.400-17th. Kaili Deauseault of Chicopee Comp, was the senior award winner. Nate Rosenthal is a sports correspondent for Turley Publications. He can be reached at [email protected]. The deadline for submissions for this sports section is the Monday before publication by noon. Players from Minnechaug and Tantasqua battle for possession of a loose ball. To send in information, contact Sports Editor Dave Forbes, at 413-283-8393 ext. 237, send an e-mail to [email protected] or send it through the mail to: Turley Publications c/o Sports Editor Dave Forbes, 24 Water St., Palmer, MA 01069 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Volleyball All-Stars announced HOLYOKE - The International Volleyball Hall of Fame is proud to announce the fourth Annual Spalding Western Massachusetts Girls High School Volleyball All-Star Teams and Game. The 28 players selected for first team honors are from 14 high schools throughout Western Massachusetts. Thirty additional players were selected for second team honors. All players were invited to play in the Spalding All-Star Game. Senior Stephanie Chapin, senior Katie Gagnon and senior Zoe Lipkens were named to the first team, while junior Michaela Cronin, sophomore Meg Giordano and junior Zoe Tatro were named to the second team. Volleyball All-Stars rosters First Team Meg Adams H Clare Basler-Chang H Stephanie ChapinMB Rachael Cialek H Sarah ConliskMB Alexis Corcoran H Brittney CunninghamS Meghan D’Amours H Angela DavisMB Nina DiasS Val DonskayaMB Katie GagnonS Nina Hayes H Sara LaFrienereMB Zoe Lipkens H Caroline McCoy H Cara McKenzieMB Ayanna Meadows H Kayla Mokwuah H Gillian Pirnie H Remi Quesnelle H Sadie Simons H Rudi SpanoS Shenna Tyer H Kendra WilliamsS Hope Willis H Sarah WoodfordL Emily WoodwardS “The Hall of Fame celebrates the very best in the world of volleyball.” said IVHF Executive Director George Mulry. “We are always excited when we can celebrate and recognize the best volleyball athletes from our local community and the sports birthplace.” Selected players were chosen by a committee consisting of local coaches, officials, and the media. Players from Frontier led all honors having four players named first team allstars followed by Longmeadow, Minnechaug and West Springfield with three first team selections. The Spalding All-Star Game is supported by Whip’s Sporting Goods and Pioneer Valley Juniors. Minnechaug alumni soccer game set for Friday WILBRAHAM - The 17th annual Minnechaug Boys Alumni Soccer Game will take place Nov. 27 at 10 a.m. at the Wilbraham Soccer Club complex. All former and current players are encouraged to attend as well as coaches, parents, and friends. Players should bring appropriate equipment to play. Rain or shine a team meeting will follow at 1 p.m. at Dana’s Grillroom. Girls Fastpitch softball players wanted NEYSA 14U team is looking to add some players. This team is based out of Springfield, but players from other communities are welcome to join. Players should first check to see if their community sponsors a team in the NEYSA League and if so whether there are available slots. The Springfield-based team plans to begin indoor practices early next year on Saturdays. Once weather permits practices will move outdoors to our home fields at Greenleaf Park in Springfield and be more frequent. Coach Darrell Weldon lives in Belchertown and willing to provide rides from this area if needed. Eligible players for this 14U team must not reach age 15 prior to Jan. 1, 2016. Ability does not matter. Coaches are always willing to work with anyone that wants to improve their skills and be able to enjoy playing the game. Our regular season and playoffs run from the beginning of May through the end of June. If interested please send an email to [email protected] with contact information. Page 19 2017 Ware 2018Amherst 2016Minnechaug 2016 Frontier 2016 Frontier 2016 Chicopee 2017Longmeadow 2016Agawam 2016 Central 2017Ludlow 2017 West Springfield 2016Minnechaug 2017Amherst 2016 Wahconah 2016Minnechaug 2016Longmeadow 2017 Belchertown 2017 Chicopee 2018Longmeadow 2016 West Springfield 2016 Frontier 2016 Ware 2016 West Springfield 2017Lee 2017Lee 2017Mt. Greylock 2017 Belchertown 2016 Frontier Second Team All-Stars Markina Ako-BrewL Dagny AlbanoS Natasha Belardo H Kayla CalafMB MacKenzie Chaban H Katherine Conlisk H Sara CoreyL Michaela CroninMB Maddy DentzanL Sienna DillensneiderS Sonya DonskayaL Nahyska DumeyS Julia Fleury H Meg Giordano H Gerlitz Hernandez H Caroline HitchcockMB Kathy Jaracz H Mia JeronimoMB Kelsey JohnstoneS Kayla Krom H Sophia LaRoche H Cassidy MilikenS Abbie MokwuahMB Teya NolanS Hope Parker H Courtney Picard H Megan Rice H Quinn RocheMB Zoe Tatro H Kiana Turner H 2017Sabis 2017Mt. Greylock 2016 Holyoke 2016 Chicopee 2017 Westfield 2016 Frontier 2016 Frontier 2017Minnechaug 2016Easthampton 2018Turners Falls 2016Longmeadow 2016Renaissance 2016 West Springfield 2018Minnechaug 2017 Commerce 2017Agawam 2017 Chicopee Comp 2016Ludlow 2016 Westfield 2017Mt. Everett 2016Athol 2017Agawam 2017Longmeadow 2018Amherst 2017Athol 2016Lee 2017Amherst 2018 Belchertown 2017Minnechaug 2018South Hadley Nick’s Sport Shop We Buy, Sell & Consign Guns Hunting Sporting Goods Fishing 1029 Park Street, Palmer (413) 283-3920 www.nickssportshop.com • [email protected] Hours: Tues., Wed., Thurs. 10-6:30; Fri. 10-6; Sat. 9-5 OPEN Sundays Now until Christmas 12-4 Your Hometown Photographer Petite - Missy - Plus WEDDINGS We’re known for our – • SPECIAL OCCASIONS * Great selection of casual to dressy clothing! * Alfred Dunner, Simply Silk, Southern Lady, and many other wonderful lines! * Elegant mother-of-the-bride gowns! * Service with a smile! • SPORTS TEAMS To see your photos go to www.photobymiles.net “The man with the funny hats” David Miles Photography 596-4525 • [email protected] The Library Loft Schoolhouse Commons Historical Center • 1085 Park Street, Palmer We are celebrating our 10th year at the Schoolhouse Commons. Thanks to our wonderful “friends,” volunteers and patrons, we will be open on Fridays beginning in September. Our New Hours Tues. 10am - 4pm • Wed. 10am - 4pm • Thurs. 10am - 4pm Fri. 10am-4pm • Sat. 10am - 4pm Hope to see you there Book donations will be accepted at the Palmer Public Library or the Library Loft during open hours. Please, no magazines or Reader's Digest Condensed Books. We accept books only in good, clean condition. Paradise Found GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE In the Sturbridge Marketplace Rt. 20, 559 Main Street Sturbridge, MA Open: Tues. - Sun. 10-5pm (508) 347-7384 The Wilbraham-Hampden Times is now on Facebook. Go to www.facebook.com/wilbrahamhampdentimes and “like” us. BALDWIN AUTO REPAIR LLC Great Service Without the Cost Specializing in All Makes and Models Including Volkswagon and Audi For more information call 283-3330 ext. 100 26 Kirkland Ave, Ludlow, MA 01056 Proceeds To Benefit the Palmer Public Library 413-610-0712 www.BaldwinAutoRepairForLess.com The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 20 Annual tree lighting ‘brighter than ever’ November 26, 2015 This week in recreation By Ron Dobosz, Forman Wilbraham Parks and Recreation Department at Spec Pond, we just completed the patching and sodding of goal areas and low spots on the multi-purpose fields, and sodded as needed on the baseball fields at Spec Pond. We now t is hard to believe that plan to renovate the home the outdoor sports seaplate areas at Farrell and sons have come to an McLaughlin fields this fall, end and we are preparing and level and edge around our parks, fields, and equipfirst and third base areas on ment for winter. Farrell Field. It was a successful year We continue to remove for the Parks and Recreleaves and debris from all ation Department and we our parks and remove and are proud of what was acstore all sporting equipment complished. We had a great for the winter. We will be Spec Pond beach season, Ron Dobosz busy this winter inspecting with great crowds enjoying and repairing as needed all the beach and the pond, and the Day Camp utilizing the pond for of our sports and recreation equipswimming and kayaking. All of the ment so it is all ready for the 2016 sports teams enjoyed using our fa- season. I would like to wish everycilities this season and they were all one a peaceful and relaxing Thanksgrateful for the hard work the depart- giving Day. ment did to make the fields safe and consistent as possible. Turf Tip: It is not too late to apWe also started and completed ply a high potassium fertilizer on your many projects in 2015. We com- lawns. This will help strengthen your pletely renovated both baseball grass for the harsh winter and also fields at the Memorial Field Com- help it recover in the spring when plex, installed a new batting tunnel your grass comes out of dormancy. I TIMES file photo by David Miles Santa Claus leads the countdown at last year’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Rotary Club past president and Tree Lighting co-chair Dr. Ed McFarland said he expects this year’s event to be “brighter than ever.” TREE from page 1 ant evergreen tree located in Crane Park in the center of town. “Walter said I always pick the coldest day to put up the lights and it was cold,” McFarland commented, noting that the morning was in the 20s and windy this year. At over 25 feet tall and featuring well over 3,000 lights strung horizontally and vertically, the 300 or more spectators will be in for a surprise he said. The ceremony, sponsored by the Times and Luso Federal Credit Union, will take place Sunday, Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. featuring an invocation by St. Cecilia’s Rev. Daniel Boyle and appearances by Wilbraham Selectmen Chairman Robert Boilard and state Rep. Angelo Puppolo Jr. (D-Springfield). But the main attraction is a visit from the Jolly Old Elf himself: Santa Claus. ‘Mood Snow’ “This event is a rite of passage for the Wilbraham kids at the holidays,” Rotary Club President Charles Bennett said. “There’s something about the excitement when the fire engine comes down Main Street with lights flashing and the siren blowing.” Bennett commented that his own children, now grown, still remember Santa Claus escorted by the Fire Department and leading the town’s assembled onlookers in a countdown to the lighting of the tree. “I’m hoping for a little mood snow,” he said, noting a light coating of the white stuff would help create a holiday atmosphere. Additionally, attendants will be treated to mulled cider and snacks courtesy of Landmark Realtors and festive music. McFarland and Markett together have been coordinating the annual ceremony for over 20 years, which McFarland explained “was given to us” once the club took over the task from the former Men’s Club. Markett has said that the tree was originally 12 feet tall, more than doubling its size since then. According to McFarland, Luso donated $200 for the purchase of new lights for this year’s ceremony. The tree receives power courtesy of a generous neighbor next door. Once officially lit, the tree will turn on daily from 4 to 11 p.m. utilizing a timer. Tyler S. Witkop can be reached at [email protected]. The HOUSE COMMUNITY CENTER FOR LEARNING 1479 NORTH MAIN STREET PALMER, MA 01069 • 413-289-6091 DECEMBER CLASSES Tempting Tunisian Crochet – begins 12/1 Heartsaver CPR/First Aid – begins 12/1 Medicare Planning Workshop – 12/1 ABCs of Annuities – 12/2 Hearty Salads for the Cold Season – 12/3 Make the Most Out of Social Security – 12/3 Discovering Our Inner Guide Through Dreams etc. – 12/3 Will I Have Income for Life During Retirement? – 12/7 Handbuilding Pottery – begins 12/7 Deliciously Healthy – 12/7 Learning About the Internet – 12/8 or 12/9 Investment and Retirement Fees – 12/9 German Bell Ornaments – 12/12 Powerpoint 2010 Plus – begins 12/14 Thoroughly Preparing a Will for You – 12/14 HOLIDAY ARTISAN FAIR, SATURDAY, DEC. 5, 10AM-3PM Call 413-289-6091 to register for classes Visit www.yellowhouseccl.com for full details of all classes CLUES ACROSS 1. And so forth (abbr.) 4. Used to be United __ 7. Upper left keyboard key 10. Invitable ruin 12. Consumed 13. N.H. Maine river 14. Sen. Thurmond 16. More (Spanish) 17. Oh, God! 18. Designed chairs 20. Insect living in organized colonies 21. Anglo-Saxon theologian, c.700 22. Ecclesiastics 25. Magic incantation 30. Swan Lake and Don Quixote 31. Affirmative 32. Conspiracy 33. Citizen of Stockholm 38. Light brown 41. Roman judge 43. Sonny & Cher classic 45. Chopped mixture for stuffing 48. Am. Nobel physicist Isodor 49. Maya __ of Vietnam Veterans Memorial 50. Expressed pleasure 55. In bed 56. Finnish 57. Canacol Energy stock symbol 59. Leather strap for hawks 60. UA fraternity est. 3-9-1856 61. Low, sideless cart 62. They __ 63. Single Lens Reflex 64. Point that is midway between N and NE CLUES DOWN 1. Murrow, Sullivan & Koch 2. Carrying bag 3. Countess of Grantham 4. Key fruit 5. One kept in readiness 6. Bring back to normal 7. Avid 8. Lots of 9. Formal close (music) 11. Dad’s partner 13. Point that is one point E of SE 15. Myself 19. Minor disagreement 23. Promotional materials 24. Bahama capital 25. Rudiments of a subject 26. Bleat 27. Right linebacker 28. Flower petals 29. Early culture of Gr. Britain 34. Worldwide internet 35. 7th Greek letter 36. When born (abbr.) 37. Before 39. Existing forever 40. About name 41. Myanmar monetary unit 42. Island north of Guam 44. Soft 45. __ Castell, makers of pens 46. Excessively fat 47. Eliminates 48. A Hindu prince or king in India 51. Carrier’s invention 52. Possessed 53. Deserve through action 54. Doyen 58. A way to change color November 26, 2015 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 21 WEDDING AND EVENT PLANNER BANQUET FACILITIES CAKES Chandlers at Yankee Candle – Voted the most romantic restaurant and best wine list in the valley for 10 years. Voted official best family restaurant of Massachusetts. South Deerfield, MA. 413-665-1277 or log onto chandlersyankeecandle.com. Atkins Farms Country Market – For over 20 years, our cakes have been made from scratch, and we use only the highest quality ingredients. Decorated with beautifully hand crafted frosting flowers and topped with probably the best butter cream icing you’ll taste anywhere. Our cake has had rave reviews from our customers from all around the Pioneer Valley where we are also well renowned for our quality baked goods. 253-9528. www.atkinsfarms.com. The Hotel Northampton – Pioneer Valley's only true Grand Ballroom, luxurious guestrooms, two restaurants, award-winning food, on-site parking, steps from unique shops and galleries. 413-587-8105. www.HotelNorthampton.com. Look Park Garden House – Gazebo, Pine Theater and S anc tuar y for we dding re ceptions and ceremonies, meetings, banquets and events for up to 170 people. 300 North Main Street, Rt. 9, Florence, MA. 413-584-2220. www.lookpark.org. Magic Wings Butterfly & Conservatory Gardens – You and your guests will be surrounded by 4,000 beautiful butterflies in a tropical setting anytime of the year! Accommodations for up to 100 for your ceremony and reception. All inclusive wedding packages available. We also host pre-wedding and rehearsal dinner parties. 281 Greenfield Road, Scenic Routes 5 & 10, South Deerfield, MA. 413-665-2805. www.magicwings.com. Publick House Historic Inn & Country Lodge – Has been creating picturesque New England weddings for over 230 years. Visit www.publickhouse.com or call 508-347-3313. Sheraton Springfield – One Monarch Place. Your Weekend Wedding Destination; rehearsal dinner, wedding and post nuptial brunch all in the comfort of one location. Newly renovated, atrium style hotel with ballroom seating for up to 500 guests. Complimentary room for the Bride & Groom, Rolls Royce, Centerpieces and Parking included in all packages. Contact Kristen Muszynski, your personal wedding consultant at 413-263-2117 or [email protected] to set up your tour today! Storrow ton Tavern – Storrow ton Tavern & Carriage House is a landmark area facility located on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition. The operators of the facility, the Calvanese family, have over 45 years of hospitality experience. They offer beautifully landscaped grounds, terraced patios and an upscale banquet facility that can serve 400 guests. For more information please visit ww.storrowtontavern.com. We are located at 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089. 413.732.4188. [email protected]. Union Station – Northampton’s Union Station w a s d e s i g n e d b y A m e r i c a n a rc h i te c t H . H . Richardson in 1886. This historic train depot has been extensively renovated to contain one of the most elegant and unique banquet facilities in all of New England. The Grand Ballroom at Union Station. www.unionstationbanquets.com. Villa Rose – 1428 Center Street, Ludlow. 413-5476667. Banquet facilities for parties large and small up to 200 people. Showers, receptions, graduations and more. Catering available for up to 1,000 people. The Wherehouse? – Located downtown in historic Holyoke. The most unusual & interesting banquet function facility you’ve ever seen! Call today for your appointment, 413-534-3039. Visit us online at www.the-wherehouse.com. BEAUTY & HEALTH Brooks & Butterfield THE • DAY • SPA – Relaxed. Beautiful. Confident. Voted the Best Day Spa 9 years in a row. 140 Main Street, Northampton. 413-586-0366. www.brooksandbutterfield.com. CATERERS UMass Catering – Premier caterer serving the Pioneer Valley with beautiful views in the heart of the UMass Amherst Campus. 413-577-1234. Visit us online at www.umass.edu/catering. FLORISTS Atkins Farms Country Market – Atkins Flower Shop is managed by three full-time experienced floral designers to assist you in planning the wedding of your dreams. You can be assured of receiving the excellent service and quality products from the floral department that you have come to expect from Atkins. Their work is beautiful and expertly done and offered to you at prices that are surprisingly reasonable. 253-9528. www.atkinsfarms.com. Sixteen Acres Garden Center – The Floral Shop at Sixteen Acres Garden Center has been servicing Springfield for over 50 years. Our professional staff members aim to provide a service that is unique and tailored to suit individual needs. We provide a complete, high quality range of floral products at competitive prices. The Floral Shop at Sixteen Acres Garden Center offers flowers that are fresh daily and we take great pride in our work. We have arrangements for all different occasions and all budgets. For professional and experienced service please contact us at 413-783-5883. Located at 1359 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, MA. Visit us on the web at www.16acresgardencenter.com. Photos by Karen Geaghan Photography JEWELERS Silverscape Designs – was founded by Denis Perlman over 30 years ago and is noted for its commitment to showcasing the work of the finest in American handcrafted jewelry & gifts. Silverscape also specializes in custom designs for that perfect piece of jewelry. Silverscape Designs is located at One King Street in Northampton, MA. www.silverscapedesigns.com. Stevens Jewelers & Diamond Gallery – A family operated company with wholesale and retail operations. Buying gold, silver and diamonds, jewelry & watch repair, custom design & remounts. Personalized engraving, appraisals. Visit us at our NEW location 1501 Elm Street, West Springfield, MA. 413-731-9800. PHOTOGRAPHY Karen Geaghan Photography – My life, my passion, my love! Specializing in Life Cycle Photography: Weddings, Maternity, Newborn, Children & Families. Doing small things with great love because in the end I believe it's the little things that count the most. Clients become family! Visit me at www.karengeaghanphotos. com or call 413-596-2227 or 537-3001. I would LOVE to hear from you! RENTALS Michael’s Party Rentals – Showers, ceremonies, rehearsal dinners, receptions. Tents for 10-500. Tables, chairs, dance floors, linens, tent lighting, events, graduations, bbq’s. Call 413-583-3123 or visit us on the web at www.michaelspartyrentals.com. Northampton Rental Center – From intimate to extravagant, weddings are a big event with us. We offer expert advice in selecting the finest tents, chairs, tab;es, dinnerware, glassware and flatware to make your reception memorable. 59 Service Center Road, Northampton, MA. 413-584-5072. Photos by Aim Images The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 22 November 26, 2015 Business New faces at Fancy That Antiques Wilbraham business under new ownership By Gregory A. Scibelli Turley Publications Correspondent WILBRAHAM – From the high life in Los Angeles to the quiet life of the Berkshires, the Chipps are looking to enjoy the advantages of small town living. Malena and Bruce Chipps recently purchased Fancy That Antiques located on Boston Road in Wilbraham, and are looking to enjoy Western Massachusetts after living a hectic L.A. lifestyle. Malena Chipps spent time as an opera singer while her husband was a Hollywood producer. Both also had hobbies with antiques, with Malena specifically interested in designing and altering jewelry and furs. When Bruce was ready to retire, Malena said they decided to make their way across the country and live in the Berkshires. “We found a beautiful home in the Berkshires in Stockbridge,” said Malena Chipps. Two years after moving, they discovered the Wilbraham antique store was for sale and decided to capitalize on the small shop to pursue their love of antiques in their retirement years. “We really enjoy getting to take things and refurbish them and making them beautiful again,” she said. Her husband spends the majority of his time working on furniture and related antiques. She says he purchases most of his furniture from France and Italy, and brings it back to the U.S. to refurbish and sell. “He’s really good at finding things out there for low prices and then making them into something better,” she said. Malena spends her time bringing new life to jewelry and furs, as well as creating her own jewelry and selling it. Help Customers Since opening the shop in October, Malena said her favorite part of the work has been the people. “I love the interaction,” said Malena. “I love the people and I love being able to help them find what they need.” The Chipps also provide a unique advising service, where they help their clients with buying and selling their own antiques. TIMES photo by Gregory A. Scibelli Malena and Bruce Chipps (not pictured) are the new owners of Fancy That Antiques in Wilbraham. “If someone has antiques and they are looking to sell them, we may buy them from them,” she said. “If we cannot meet their price, we may help them figure out how they can sell it for the price they are looking for. We want to help people get the most value they can for their antiques.” Malena said there are no plans to do any major expansions or move the business closer to their home. It is a 90-minute drive from Stockbridge to the store, but Malena enjoys the trip. “To get to my husband’s studio is a two-hour drive to go just 18 miles,” she said. “Here, you can go pretty far in that time. And it is beautiful out here.” The store is now open and selling a collection of antiques and jewelry. Malena said she and her husband are working on creating more of a showroom setting for the furniture portion of their business. Fancy That Antiques is located at 2805 Boston Road and open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Chipps will also work with customers who are unable to leave their homes, making house calls to come and evaluate antiques. Monson Savings to hold retirement workshop Top Floor Learning, a privately funded non-profit corporation, has been helping others help themselves for 35 years with its Adult Basic Education programs. What makes 1455 N. Main Street, Third Floor Top Floor Learning unique is its Palmer, MA 0106 personalized instruction. facebook.com/topfloorlearningpalmer A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL SCRABBLE DONORS Adams IGA Market, Monson Baystate Wing Hospital, Palmer BigY Foods, Inc. Comfort Pillows by Nana, Pam Lewis, Monson Diamond Junction Bowling Lanes, Palmer Dream Catcher’s Furniture, Palmer Dunkin Donuts, Palmer Echo Hill Orchard & Winery, Monson F. L. Roberts & Co. Car Wash, Wilbraham Friendly’s Ice Cream, Wilbraham Girly’s Grill, Palmer Jackson’s Auto, Palmer Ken’s Automotive, Wilbraham Masters Touch Jewelers, Palmer NAPA Auto Store, Palmer NEPM – New England Promotional Marketing, Wilbraham Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical High School Pride Convenience Stores, Springfield Area Salon Trendz, Palmer Saporito’s Pizza, Three Rivers Stop & Shop Supermarkets, Springfield Area TFL Staff, Board Members, Tutors, & Volunteers Tranquility Central Hair & Nails, Palmer W & R Collectables Unlimited, Palmer Let TFL’s method of One-to-One private tutoring help you reach your goals For program information call Gail (413) 283-2329, or e-mail at: gcarneiro@topfloorlearning.org COMPUTER HELP IS HERE! Do you want to learn how to: • use a computer • email • create a Facebook page, etc.? Need more information on the above? Call Gail at 413-283-2329. HAMPDEN – Monson Savings Bank announced a complimentary workshop entitled, “Protecting Your Retirement Income for Life” will be held Tuesday, Dec. 1 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Hampden Senior Center, 104 Allen St. Presented by Mack Mikaelian, divisional vice president, SunAmerica Retirement Markets, the event will provide an overview of the Polaris Variable Annuity with an optional income benefit to help attendees determine if this is a retirement income strategy they should explore. “We are very pleased to be offering this free workshop,” said Steve Lowell, president of Monson Savings Bank. “Saving for retirement is hard enough, but then converting retirement savings into life time income can be very complex and confusing. That’s why we feel these complimentary workshops are so important.” For more information, contact Anna Calvanese at 413-267-1221 or email [email protected]. Seating is limited. A light buffet supper will be served. WNEU offers free legal services to small businesses SPRINGFIELD – The Western New England University Small Business Legal Clinic is now accepting applications from entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking legal assistance for the spring 2016 semester. Under faculty supervision, law students assist clients with legal issues including choice of entity, employment policies, contract drafting, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property issues relating to trademark applications and copyright. This is a free ser- vice available to local businesses that would not otherwise have the resources to obtain these types of services. The Small Business Legal Clinic asks small business owners to submit their applications by Thursday, Dec. 31. Applications received after that date will be considered if additional resources are available. Students will begin providing services in mid-January. For more information, call the Legal Clinic at 413-782-1469 or email mfletcher@ law.wne.edu. Community Newspapers Thrive! More than 100 million people read a printed newspaper each day – that’s more than watch the Super Bowl. American Idol or TV late news. Plus, many more read local papers online. Newspapers, in all forms, are still the primary source for news in the U.S. The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page 23 Obituary Roland A. Corbeil (1936-2015) Send a child something special this Christmas – a personalized letter from Santa! Brought to you by Turley Publications, this memory of a lifetime is a special opportunity to personalize a child’s Christmas holiday! They’ll also receive an autographed photo along with a special gift. Simply cut out the coupon below, fill in your payment information and enclose your check for $9.95.* The letter will be delivered with the autographed photo and special gift just in time for Christmas! Quantities are limited, so don’t delay, order your gift today! ONLY ONE NAME PER LETTER PLEASE. $9.95 for the first one, $8.95 for each additional. Please include phone number. Make copies of this form as needed. Expires 12-25-15. CHILD’S NAME(S) SHIPPING ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP YOUR NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP SPRINGFIELD – Roland A. Corbeil, 79, passed away on Nov. 18 in Baystate Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 13, 1936 in Springfield, Massachusetts. He was the son of Armand and Alice (Coulombe) Corbeil. Roland lived in Springfield for the past nine years and previously resided in Wilbraham and Ludlow. He is survived by his wife, Margaret “Peggy” (Santaniello) of Wilbraham, four daughters, Celeste A. Chenier (James) of Ludlow, Michelle Corbeil-Crawford (Brian) of Ware, Laurie M. Gauthier of North Grosvenordale, Connecticut, who was also his primary caregiver, and Cheryl Lenville of Springfield. He also leaves seven grandchildren, Jimmy Chenier, Melissa Wilkes (Paul), Abby Crawford, Erin Crawford and Andrew, Shannon and Emily Santaniello, two great-grandchildren, Anna Marie and Maddison Brady Wilkes, a step-son Scott Santaniello (Denise) of Springfield, brother-in-law, Louis of Springfield, cousins Lucille Searleman of West Springfield, and her three children, Kevin, Kim and Keith, as well as Alice Casey of Springfield, Canadian cousins Lise Racine and Estelle DiMarzio (Peter), and kind and loving neighbors, Jose and Romanita. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by Darlene Nancy Corbeil. Roland was born in Springfield, MA, in March, during the flood of 1936. The flood waters of the Connecticut River had covered Chestnut Street and Roland and his mom, Alice, were isolated in Mercy Hospital. Dad, Armand, was unable to visit his wife and new son. Roland was raised in the two-story home and barns located at the corner of Bay Street and Roosevelt Avenue, Springfield. It was the home of the Fitzgerald Dairy Farm where his dad delivered milk by horse and wagon to homes in the Pine Point and Winchester Square areas. Armand Corbeil had moved here from Montreal, Canada, in the 1920s. There was also a golf driving range next to their home on Bay Street. Springfield Central High School is now on that site near Blunt Park. The owner, Patrick Fitzgerald, sold land to the city of Springfield for the old Memorial Golf Course, and to Smith & Wesson off of Roosevelt Avenue. Patrick taught Roland that “the early bird catches the worm!” Patrick took Roland every day to the Memorial Golf Course for a milk shake and to practice on the green. Perhaps if Pat had lived longer, Roland would have become a better golfer! He was a graduate of the High School of Commerce Class of 1953 and was a member of their reunion committee. He was a 1960 Cum-Laude graduate of Western New England College with a B.B.A. in Accounting. Roland was employed by MassMutual Life Insurance Company for 43 years as director of Client Services and retired in 1996. He was a Chartered Life Underwriter, and a member of the National Alliance of Securities Dealers. He was an associate at Ludlow Auto Sales for 28 years. He was past president of the Ludlow Jaycees. Roland received an award from then President Jimmy Carter for his work with the National Alliance of Business. He was past Director of the Connecticut Valley Region Antique Car Club, a member of the Antique Automobile Club of America and the Veteran Motor Car Club of America. He owned a turquoise 1964 Studebaker Avanti R1 two-door hardtop. Roland was an avid Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots and Boston Bruins fan and enjoyed trips with his friends Ric, Ken and Charlie to Montreal to see the Bruins beat the Canadiens! With his young buddies in the 1950s he went to hundreds of games of the Springfield Cubs baseball team at Pynchon Park and Springfield Indians hockey games at the Coliseum. He was a member of the Scantic Valley YMCA, Wilbraham and was a supporter of the Friends of Wilbraham Seniors. Roland especially enjoyed vacationing in Ogunquit, Maine, for over 30 years. He looked forward to attending the 9:30 Sunday masses at St. Cecilia’s Parish in Wilbraham at which the youth of the church participated. He thoroughly enjoyed gardening, growing day lilies and hostas. He was a member of the Connecticut Day Lily Society in Avon, Connecticut, and the New England Day Lily Society, Tower Hill Botanical Gardens, West Boylston, Massachusetts. Roland felt that gardening helped to enjoy nature and to prolong his life. Calling hours were Nov. 23 at Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home, 1475 North Main St.. Family and friends gathered at the funeral home on Tuesday, Nov. 24 and followed to a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Cecilia’s Church. Burial followed at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Springfield. Memorial contributions may be made to Make A Wish Foundation and Friends of Wilbraham Seniors, 45 Post Office Park #A, Wilbraham, MA 01095. For more information, visit beersandstory.com. WilbrahamHampden Times Obituary Policy Turley Publications offers two types of obituaries. One is a free, brief Death Notice listing the name of deceased, date of death and funeral date and place. The other is a Paid Obituary, costing $75, which allows families to publish extended death notice information of their own choice and may include a photograph. Death Notices & Paid Obituaries should be submitted through a funeral home to: [email protected]. Exceptions will be made only when the family provides a death certificate and must be pre-paid. Death Notice Corbeil, Roland A. Died Nov. 18, 2015 Funeral Service Nov. 24, 2015 Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home PHONE PAYMENT ENCLOSED: ■ CHECK ■ VISA Newspapers Provide ■ MASTERCARD ■ AMEX ■ DISCOVER CREDIT CARD # EXP DATE: 3 DIGIT CODE: PHONE: MAIL THIS COUPON TO: Santa at Turley, 24 Water Street, Palmer, MA 01069 or call 413-283-8393 or email: [email protected], (Subject: Santa) for immediate assistance. Quantities are limited. Turley Publications reserves the right to end offer at any time. Payment will be returned if offer expires due to limited quantity being sold out or multiple names per letter. Sales are based on a first come first serve basis. Exciting Creative OPTIONS! Community newspaper advertising options have exploded - now offering a variety of specialty publications and all types of printed ads inside and outside the pages of the paper. Sympathy Floral Arrangements Custom & Traditional Designs Randalls Farm & Greenhouse 631 Center Street, Ludlow 589-7071 ~ www.randallsfarm.net MEMORIALS haluchsmemorials.com Cemetery Memorials ✦ Markers Granite Benches Religious Statuary ✦ Outdoor Display RAY HALUCH INC. 1014 Center St ❙ Ludlow, MA ❙ 583-6508 Please join us for our first annual Candlelight Memorial Service A celebration of remembrance for the loved ones who will be missed this holiday season. TIME: 5:00 pm DATE: Friday, December 4th PLACE: Ludlow Country Club 1 Tony Lema Drive Ludlow, MA 01056 This non-denominational service will be officiated by local clergy. Sponsored by Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services. Refreshments will be served. 15 L UDLOW A VE . S PRINGFIELD , MA 01151 WWW .N OWAK F UNERAL . COM Please RSVP by December 2nd by calling Nydia Gallagher at (413)-543-1892 or email: [email protected] NYDIA GALLAGHER ANTHONY J . NOWAK The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 24 November 26, 2015 ARTS & Lifestyles Community to strike a chord this season WILRBAHAM – The Wilbraham Community Chorus announced its concert season will begin Sunday, Dec. 6 with a 3 p.m. performance at Wilbraham United Church. Under the direction of retired Minnechaug Choral Director Raymond Drury and featuring musical accompaniment by Marcia Jack- son, performances will include works from such classical composers as Bach and Vivaldi, and modern composers Stopford, Busto and Purifoy. Guest fiddler Sara Michel will perform an Appalachian medley. Performances will also include seasonal favorites and a four-hand piano arrangement featuring Jackson and Todd Rovelli. A second performance will take place Saturday, Dec. 12 at the First Church of Christ in Longmeadow, also at 3 p.m. Performances are free and open to the public, but free will offerings will be accepted. Seating is limited, so early arrival is encouraged. For more information, visit wilbrahamchoralsociety.org. JOIN OUR MISSION Shriners to host annual ‘Fez’tival of Trees’ SPRINGFIELD – The Melha Shriners will host their annual “Fez’tival of Trees,” Friday, Nov. 27 to Sunday, Dec. 6 at the Melha Shrine Center on Longhill St. The event, created by Shriner Bill Faust and his wife Debbie, is an opportunity for individuals and organizations to display colorful decorations for the holiday season and Christmas in particular. “Every year is bigger and better and this year is no exception,” said Bill Faust. “You will be beyond im- pressed by what you will see and you will definitely leave with the spirit of all holidays within you.” The Fez’tival of Trees will be held weekends, 4 to 8 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8 pm., and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Santa Claus will be available for photos Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Around Town Singers will perform a special holiday concert Saturday, Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. In addition to the theme decorated trees, which will be raffled off Dec. 6, there will be entertainment, refreshments and a bake sale. The cost of admission is $2 for adults; children under age 12 will be admitted free. “This holiday season, come to the Melha Shrine Center at 133 Longhill St. in Springfield and you will feel as though you have truly stepped into a wonderland,” said Debbie Faust. For more information, visit melhashriners.com. University to host celebrated author SPRINGFIELD – The Western New England University Department of English will host Rachel B. Glaser during its “Fall Author Series” on Wednesday, Dec. 2 beginning at 6 p.m. in the Center for the Sciences and Pharmacy, Room 400 located at 1215 Wilbraham Road. Glaser is the author of the story collection “Pee On Water” and the poetry collection “MOODS.” Her novel, “Paulina and Fran” was released by Harper Perennial in 2015, and is forthcoming from Granta Books in the United Kingdom in 2016. Glaser received a bachelor’s degree from Rhode Island School of Design, and her master’s degree in creative writing from the Univer- sity of Massachusetts-Amherst. She is a recipient of the McSweeney’s Amanda Davis Fiction Award, and her work has appeared in the anthologies “30 Under 30” and “New American Stories.” She resides in Northampton. The event is free and open to the public. For more information visit www.wne.edu/english. Talent show seeks performers MONSON – The Monson Arts Council Scholarship Committee is looking for performers for its eighth annual talent show, Western Mass Performs. Individuals of any age are encouraged to apply and all applicants are required to turn in their application by Wednesday, Jan. 27 with a $25 application fee. Application forms can be found at www.monsonartscouncil.com. Applicants will audition and the top 24 acts will be included in the show. A panel of professional judges will judge all contestants and first prize receives $700, second place receives $200, and third place receives $100. All prizes are supplied by local businesses. All proceeds from the show will go towards the Monson Arts Council scholarship, awarded to a Monson senior involved in the arts. The show itself will be held at Granite Valley Middle School on Saturday, Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. Auditions will be held on Friday, Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 30 at 9 a.m. at the Polish Citizens Club. For more information visit www.monsonartscouncil.com or call 267-9764. This Holiday Season Advertise with the publication who supports your business all year long. Together we will make 2015 the most fruitful holiday season for the communities we love! Local Newspapers. Local Businesses. Local Advertising. Local Prosperity. Let our loyal readers know you are open for business. Ask your Sales Representative to use our Open Sign in all your holiday advertising. The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page 25 Suburban Living November is a season of changes By Rick Rubin Turley Publications Correspondent Recipe: Banana Crumb Muffins N ovember is a strange time in New England. For me, the sky getting dark so early stinks. When it’s cloudy, the day can turn dark as early as 4 p.m. When that happens I feel like I have to get home and get into Rick Rubin bed, but this month the temperature has been warmer than normal, so it really stinks when it’s both warm and dark. Something else strange happens in the month of November. I become an eating machine. No, I am not talking about Thanksgiving, I’m saying once the date of Nov. 1 appears, I start eating everything in sight. At first it starts with the extra Halloween candy hanging around the house, then it goes to the Halloween candy that no one in our house will eat, progressing to the dry cereal leftover from when my kids were home in the summer. Once that happens, the race is on and anything and everything not nailed down becomes an instant snack (I say snack, but it’s really more than that, I like to fool myself sometimes). Leftover sour cream and onion chips with dinner; why not? I actually hate sour cream and onion, but I’ve got to do what I’ve got to do. Battle Brewing By Black Friday I’m ready to explode, only to get ready for the holiday parties in December. Another odd happening The crumb topping is what makes these banana muffins stand apart from the ordinary. They’re delicious. Ingredients 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 bananas, mashed 3/4 cup white sugar 1 egg, lightly beaten 1/3 cup butter, melted 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon butter TIMES photo submitted Among the many changes in November, inflatable lawn decorations begin to sprout in neighborhoods throughout the community. also seems to take place in the month of November. There is a battle brewing and it’s happening in towns and cities all over our country and no, it’s not gang or drug related and the police are rarely involved. It’s the battle of the seasonal lawn decorations. Oh you can laugh, but many of us spent the month of October dressing the outside of our houses with pumpkins, corn stalks and happy-faced scarecrows only to be upstaged by a giant inflatable turkey on our neighbor’s lawn. Seriously dude, its only November, let me enjoy my rotting jack-o’-lantern and my dying mums just a few more days. Of course, there are those who skip the fall/Thanksgiving decorating and jump right into Christmas. You know who you are! These are the folks who have been planning their Christmas lawn decorations since July. They had their plans drawn, assignments given out and even their electrical box converted to 220 volts so making fake snow when its 60 degrees wouldn’t be a problem. I know many of you have seen this. It’s bad enough when the stores start putting out Christmas candy on Nov. 1, but it’s a little too much when I drive through town and actually see three to six-foot inflatable Santa’s waving to me that very same day. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy hearing “merry Christmas” in December, but when I start seeing a motorized Santa with his reindeer before we even change the clocks back, well that’s where I have to draw the line. I know, many of us get excited for the holiday season, but for Pete’s sake, can you at least wait until some of us take down our Labor Day decorations? ICC to release local cookbook Performers sought for open mic night SPRINGFIELD – The Italian Cultural Center of Western Massachusetts, Inc. announced the publication of its very own “homemade” cookbook, “Mangia! Ci fa bene!” The book features over 160 tried and tested family recipes contributed by ICC members. Cost is $15. Proceeds promote traditional Italian cooking, as well as support the Italian Cultural Center. Books may be purchased by calling 413-784-1492, emailing [email protected], or writing to 56 Margaret St., Springfield, MA 01105. Shipping for up to two books is $6. Make checks or money orders payable to “ICC.” WILBRAHAM – The Wilbraham Public Library seeks performers for a Teen Open Mic Night Thursday, Dec. 10 from 5 to 7 p.m. Performers will have 5 minutes to perform skits, songs, instruments, writing or poetry. The event is open to children in grades six through 12 and refreshments will be served. For more information or to register, visit wilbrahamlibrary.org or contact Teen Services Librarian Rachel Hapgood at 596-6141 or rhapgood@ wilbrahamlibrary.org. NEWS & FEATURES As a paper of record, we attempt to cover all general news, personality profiles, and community features that we know about. This includes all selectmen and school committee meetings as well as spot planning board, board of health, finance, and other town meetings determined by the issue’s relevance to our readers. There are the annual major community event features that we should always cover, but we are more than open to suggestions of other features to celebrate the fabric of our communities and their many interesting occupants. Our loyal advertisers provide funding for this paid staff coverage. For more information on news or community features for Wilbraham Hampden Times, please email [email protected]. Directions 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin papers. 2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups. 3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour and cinnamon. Cut in 1 tablespoon butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle topping over muffins. 4. Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean. Famous people born on Nov. 26 (Source www.famouspeople.com) 1. Charles Schultz - Illustrator 2. Natasha Beningfield - Actress 3. Tina Turner Singer 4. Trevor Morgan - Actor 5. Rich Little Comic 6. Avery Bradley Basketball Player 7. Joe Nichols Country Singer 8. lil Fizz - Rapper 9. John McVie Musician 10. Robert Goulet Singer/Stage Actor Eastfield Mall 1655 Boston Rd. Donovan’s Irish Pub FOOD & SPIRITS Eastfield Mall 1655 NEW WESBITE! www.donovanspub.com HOMECOMING WEEKEND! Celebrate with friends old & new at Donovans Wed. 11/25 Fri. 11/27 The Healys The Healys Sat. 11/28 Jim McArdle & The Bards CLOSED THANKSGIVING Thursday 11/26 WEDNESDAY Corned Beef & Cabbage FRIDAY Whole Belly Clams SATURDAY Prime Rib Dinner The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 26 November 26, 2015 Health & Wellness Baystate: ‘Don’t let your holiday go fowl’ Springfield hospital offers safe turkey carving tips SPRINGFIELD – It’s the holiday season, and to Emergency Department physicians at Baystate Medical Center, that means one thing - an increase in holiday injuries. Cuts from carving are one of the top five most common injuries on Thanksgiving. “Injuries to the tendons and nerves of the fingers hap- pen frequently when a sharp knife blade slips and cuts into the hand. Surgery is often necessary to repair the damage and rehabilitation can take months to get back normal hand use,” said Dr. Pranay Parikh of Baystate Hand and Wrist Surgery. Parikh and the American Society for Surgery of the Hand offer the following safety tips before slicing up that turkey, which 88 percent of Americans choose to eat on Thanksgiving. Never cut towards yourself. One slip of the knife can cause a horrific injury. While carving a turkey, your free hand should be placed opposite the side you are carving towards. Don’t place your hand underneath the blade to catch the slice of meat. Keep your cutting area well-lit and dry. Good lighting will help prevent an accidental cut of the finger and making sure your cutting surface is dry will prevent ingredients from slipping while chopping. Keep your knife handles dry. A wet handle can prove slippery and cause your hand to slip down onto the blade resulting in a nasty cut. Keep all cutting utensils sharp. A sharp knife will never need to be forced to cut, chop, carve or slice. A dull knife is still sharp enough to cause an injury. Use an electric knife to ease the carving of the turkey or ham and use kitchen shears to tackle the job of cutting bones and joints. Leave carving to the adults. Children have not yet developed the dexterity skills necessary to safely handle sharp utensils. Should one sustain an injury while carving, applying direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth should stop bleeding from minor cuts. Parikh - who also warns against cuts from broken dishes and glasses, as well as from knives when washing in the sink after dinner - noted a visit to the Emergency Room is in order if continuous pressure does not stop the bleeding in 15 minutes, there is persistent numbness or tingling sensations, there is uncertainty regarding the status of tetanus immunization or if one is unable to thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water. For more information, visit baystatehealth.org/bmc. Shopping to combat menopause SPRINGFIELD – There is nothing better than a good shopping spree to help keep menopause symptoms at bay. The Baystate Health Education Center in Holyoke will host the “Menopause Situation and A Shopping Spree” on Wednesday, Dec. 2 from 5 to 8 p.m. Menopause is a natural part of being a woman, but it can also come with some unpleasant symptoms. Women can stay healthy by knowing what to expect and easing their worries. Dr. Mary Pat Roy, an endocrinologist at Baystate Medical center, will be answering questions about menopause and other conditions that concern women. Afterwards, Debbie Wright will share fashion tips and tricks on how to look and feel ones best. From 5 to 6 p.m., the agenda includes visiting with vendors and grabbing a bite to eat before the shopping spree. From 6:15 p.m. until 7 p.m., the menopause talk and fashion show will take place. To end the evening, from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m., there will be more shopping and door prizes. The menu for the evening includes Mediterranean cold hors d’oeuvres, bruschetta topping sliced baguette, toasted crostini and shredded parmesan cheese, hummus and pit wedges and veggie and dip platters. The event is free. To register for the event or for more information, call 3774325. TIMES photo by David Miles A life giving commitment… Red Cross technician Betsy Smith draws blood from Minnechaug student Nya Parent during the Student Council Blood Drive Nov. 19 at the high school. Volunteer drivers sought for cancer patients HOLYOKE – The American Cancer Society’s “Road to Recovery” program is in need of volunteers from Hampden County to drive local cancer patients to and from their chemotherapy and/or radiation treatments. An integral part of treating cancer successfully is making sure patients receive their treatments, but many find making transportation arrangements is a challenge. Road to Recovery provided more than 8,000 rides – free of charge – to cancer patients in Massachusetts last year, but needs new volunteer drivers to keep up with the demand for transportation. Volunteers use their own vehicle and set their own schedule. Treatment appointments take place weekdays, primarily during business hours. For more information or to become a volunteer, contact Michele Dilley from the American Cancer Society at 508-270-4644 or [email protected]. Valley Podiatry Associates is pleased to announce Lauren A. Perica, D.P.M. South Hadley Offices 81 Willimansett Street South Hadley, MA 01075 Phone: 413.536.0912 Fax: 413.538.6760 Springfield Offices 3640 Main Street, Suite 301 Springfield, MA 01107 Phone: 413.734.1400 Fax: 413.731.9627 Wilbraham Offices 70 Post Office Park, Suite 7012 Wilbraham, MA 01095 Phone: 413.682.0031 Fax: 413.682.0040 DR. WOLF • Dr. Perica recently completed a rigorous three year residency in Podiatric Medicine and Reconstructive Forefoot, Rearfoot, and Ankle Surgery at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center in Hartford, CT. Previously, she completed schooling in Ohio where she earned her professional degree from The Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine in Cleveland, OH and she received her bachelor’s degree from Miami University in Oxford, OH. Dr. Perica joins VPA with extensive training in all types of forefoot and rearfoot pathologies as well as experience in diabetic limb salvage, wound care, and sports medicine. She is greatly looking forward to planting roots in western Massachusetts and continuing to enjoy living in New England. In her free time, Dr. Perica enjoys kayaking, theater, concerts, traveling and spending time with her friends and family as well as being an active member in her church. She is seeing patients in all 3 locations including Springfield, South Hadley and Wilbraham. DR. MEUNIER • DR. BLACK • DR. PERICA Orchard Valley to host Alzheimer’s support group WILBRAHAM – Individuals and families of seniors affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are invited to participate in a Family and Caregiver Support Group. The meetings are held the second Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the Orchard Valley at Wilbraham, 2387 Boston road. Topics covered include: handling challenging behaviors, enjoying the holidays, research, family dynamics and enhancing communications. The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. For more information or to register call 596-0006. Discussion to focus on winter wellness SPRINGFIELD – Dr. Jus Crea Giammarino will present a talk on “Health and Wellness in Winter” on Saturday, Dec. 12 at noon at The Integrative Health Group, 1502 Allen St., Springfield. She will discuss holistic, natural approaches to immune system support including cold and flu prevention and treatment. She will also discuss natural ways to combat seasonal affective disorder and depression, as well as explore stress reduction and management strategies through the holiday seasons. Emphasis will be on naturopathic therapeutics, including herbal medicines, dietary approaches, clinical nutrition, and hydrotherapy techniques to maintain health and wellness through winter. The talk is free and light refreshments will be served. For more information call 413-783-9424 ext. 2. Dr Burritt L. Haag III M.D., F.A.C.S. Providing weight loss surgery options in Western Mass since 2004 We now have a non-surgical option for weight loss gastric balloon managed weight loss program - Want to learn More? Attend one of our free weight loss educational seminars Go to www.pvsurgical.com to register OR call Elizabeth at 413 736 3163 ext 324 2 Medical Center Drive, Suite 404, Springfield, MA 01107 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page 27 Schools School Lunch MENUS Elementary and Middle Schools falo chicken salad, chef salad, assorted wraps Monday, Nov. 30 French toast sticks, sausage links, and applesauce Tuesday, Dec. 1 Chicken nuggets, whipped potato, and steamed carrots Wednesday, Dec. 2 Hamburger on a whole grain bun, lettuce, tomato, cheese, fresh steamed broccoli, and oven fries Middle School Chicken parmesan on a whole grain bun, fresh steamed broccoli, and oven fries Thursday, Dec. 3 Taco boat, lettuce, salsa, cheese, black bean, and corn salad Friday, Dec. 4 Toasted cheese sandwich, tomato soup, and garden salad Alternates are offered daily, including chef salad and bagel lunch, and are served with yogurt or cheese stick. Fresh local fruits and vegetables daily. Daily lunch is $2.50. Milk is 50 cents, included with all lunches, 1% or fat free chocolate. Make checks payable to School Food Services. Minnechaug Regional High School Monday, Nov. 30 Asian Rice Bowl Station – Chicken, choice of sauce, brown rice, broccoli/carrots Main Street Deli – Crispy chicken wrap Falcon Grille Daily – Cheese/veggie, or chicken burger w/toppings Pizza Daily – Veggie Specialty – Grilled chicken, Caesar salad, buf- Tuesday, Dec. 1 Calzone and garden salad Main Street Deli – Caesar chicken wrap Falcon Grille Daily – Cheese/veggie or chicken burger w/toppings Pizza Daily – BBQ chicken Specialty - Grilled chicken, Caesar salad, buffalo chicken salad, chef salad, assorted wraps Wednesday, Dec. 2 Mexican Bar – Taco, burrito or nacho; chicken, bean or turkey; lettuce/salsa/cheese; corn Main Street Deli – Chicken salad wrap Falcon Grille Daily – Cheese/veggie or chicken burger w/ toppings Pizza Daily – Meatball Specialty – Grilled chicken, Caesar salad, buffalo chicken salad, chef salad, assorted wraps Thursday, Dec. 3 French toast sticks, sausage links, sweet potato home fries, and applesauce Main Street Deli – Buffalo chicken wrap Falcon Grille Daily – Cheese/veggie or chicken burger w/toppings Pizza Daily – Chicken and broccoli Specialty – Grilled chicken, Caesar salad, buffalo chicken salad, chef salad, assorted wraps Friday, Dec. 4 Pasta bar – Meat or white sauce, Caesar salad, garlic knot Main Street Deli – Veggie wrap Falcon Grille Daily – Cheese/veggie or chicken burger w/toppings Pizza Daily – Buffalo chicken Specialty – Grilled chicken, Caesar salad, buffalo chicken salad, chef salad, assorted wraps Meal prices $2.75, reduced 40 cents, adult $3.75, milk 50 cents, breakfast $1.50. All meals served with choice of fruit, vegetable and 1% or fat free milk. Offered daily salad bar, grab & go sandwiches and salad, lean burgers, chicken sandwiches, PB&J. health YOUR Spotlight on Minnechaug Interns (Editor’s note: The TIMES spotlights the intern program at Minnechaug Regional High School. This is the next in a series on interns in the Career Education Program at Minnechaug advised by coordinator Paula Talmadge.) T Getting the story ony Fimognari wanted an internship experience that would enhance his writing skills. His writing experiences at the WilbrahamHampden Times include articles for the News About Town section and fulllength stories such as his in-depth look at the local produce used to prepare school lunches. Tony has not only learned and successfully used the AP style of writing but has also learned the very important lesson of establishing the facts while not letting your opinions spill through. Times Editor Tyler Witkop has great praise for his intern. “I can see Tony thinking like a journalist and asking good questions. I have been most impressed with his initiative to make a phone call when he has a question about a time, place or event. He takes the extra time to get the information and ensure that it is factual.” Tony has impressed his mentor with his understanding of the importance of a deadline. “From day one, Tony has seemingly understood [the weekly deadlines] and has worked exceptionally hard to get the work done and in on time for the next issue.” Witkop goes on to say: “Regardless of what Tony decides to do with his career, his ability to take informa- TIMES photo submitted Mentor Tyler Witkop works with intern Tony Fimognari as they edit future stories for the Wilbraham-Hampden Times. tion, or the lack of it, and get the job done, will serve him well. Sometimes it is important for me to remember that Tony is only in high school because he has grown so much in three months.” We all look forward to seeing what Tony writes in the next few months and where he goes as he pursues a career in politics and law. For more information on the Minnechaug Regional High School Internship Program, contact Paula Talmadge at 5969011 ext. 3832 or [email protected]. wellness CONNECTION Dental Care For Your Whole Family • Routine exams and cleanings • Restorations • Extractions including wisdom teeth • Orthodontics • Whitening • Crowns • Sedation for the frightened patient • Endodontics • Special Needs patient care • Cosmetic Dentistry • Bridges • Dentures • Individualized treatment plan letters • Implant Dentistry • Hospital visits • 24 hour on call Dentist • Evening & Saturday appointments available New patients and emergencies always welcome! 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(413) 599-3800 2040 Boston Road · Wilbraham, MA 01095 413-271-1020 Across the street from Big Y · Easy, convenient parking Eastwood Park 2141 Boston Road, Wilbraham www.machiro.com UrgentCareOfWilbraham.com – B R O U G H T TO YO U BY T U R L E Y P U B L I C AT I O N S, I N C. – Page 28 The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Town rallies around town counsel ‘Great Guy’ Lance Trevallion, Wilbraham building inspector said, “Mike Hassett has been a pleasure to work with throughout the years. Not only has he been a great attorney but he has become a great friend. I will dearly miss the ‘Hassett’s in the house’ call-out whenever he entered the building.” From this reporter’s own memory while serving as Assistant Town Administrator, every department sought his advice from time to time. The consult would begin with questions like, “Mike, what do you think about…?” Wordlessly, broad, swift and fluid pen strokes would glide across a smooth yellow legal pad capturing every detail of the request. Then the discourse and dissertation would ensue. Somewhere along the line, when you would mindlessly forget your own question, Hassett would utter an opinion or response. You almost always had a follow up question, and the dance began again on a clean sheet of yellow paper. “It would be hard to imagine a better friend and advocate for the town of Wilbraham,” said Selectman Bob Russell. “Under the picture of ‘great guy’ there is always a picture of Mike in my mind.” Former Massachusetts state Sen. Gale D. Candaras remarked, “Over more than 25 years, Mike and I had many great adventures together in law and politics. He had considerable legal acumen and was a zealous advocate for all he served. I am honored to be part of this effort to help him.” He has a strong community spirit and is a vital community presence which is why Wilbraham residents and businesses will honor the man and his community service in a Testimonial Benefit on Wednesday, Dec.2 in St. Cecilia’s Church Hall at 42 Main Street from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event is open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Admission is $30 at the door. Raffle tickets will be sold (six for $5) and a 50-50 raffle drawing will be held at 6:30 p.m. Donations in any amount are welcome and checks can be made payable to the “Michael T. Hassett Fundraising Account.” Donations sent by mail should be addressed to Ray Blair, 18 Shirley Street, Chicopee, MA 01020. For further information, contact Candaras at 413-5991773. discount the fee to publish her obituary and that he still owed over $3,000. Out of options and having already found a support network online through a blog he created documenting their experiences, Peter turned to the Internet and the kindness of strangers for help. Using the crowdfunding site generosity.com, a subsidiary of Indiegogo focused on raising money for personal and social causes, he set out to help cover the unexpected costs from the funeral home. Extra monies would help make his vision to celebrate her life through her art a reality. As the Times goes to press, through minimal publicity on his personal Facebook page, donors pledged over $1,900. “I probably set the goal too low,” Peter commented, noting that when he published his fundraiser he set his goal at $3,000. He explained that the UConn exhibit would primarily serve as a fundraiser for the Huntington’s Disease Program of its Health Center in Farmington, Connecticut. He would need to ship the artwork, which would require a rental truck to handle the transportation to and from the facility. The local exhibit he said would likely take place at a venue like the Hampden or Wilbraham libraries. With her passing so recent, he noted that either event would likely take place in January or February at the earliest, assuming any associated costs could be covered. When asked how he would like his wife to be remembered, Peter said: “She was imaginative and creative … She smiled … She loved Basset hounds … She was supportive of people … She was a good sport and would try almost anything … Most importantly, she was creative and kind.” Aside from her art and design work, Kathy was involved with the rescue of Basset hounds, like the couple’s attention-seeker, Marty. To contribute to the fundraiser, visit www.generosity. com/memorial-fundraising/remembering-kathy-lehndorff. COUNSEL from page 1 their family home is sold in early December. “This is the room where we cared for my mom,” Janice explains on a tour through the living room. “This tiny room was the nursery.” Michael chimes in, “That’s where I sang to my daughters when they were babies.” Sweetly sung lullabies were magical. Michael is a gifted musician and talented member of St. Cecilia’s Adult Voice Choir. He enjoyed many years playing trumpet, starting from youth in the Ronnie Drum Youth Band from 1965 to 1972. He also played in the “Melodaires” at Classical High School in Springfield, and in a Latin Jazz Ensemble at the University of Notre Dame where he graduated in 1976. ‘Man of Goodwill’ More recently, his musical escapades had taken him to the former Honablue Sound Studio on Main Street in Springfield where he was a producer and director from 2000 to 2004 with longtime friend, A.W. Nardi, also a gifted musician and talented composer of original music. The two performed together on stage at CityStage, debuting Nardi’s “Nouveau” CD produced by Sony Records and mastered by Robert Honablue of New York City and Springfield. Michael has also performed in a Blues Brothers Musical and comedy routine to benefit area charities. Hassett graduated from Western New England University earning his Juris Doctorate degree in 1979 and he went on to become a Moot Court Judge in 1982 while working as Assistant Attorney General in Massachusetts from 1979 to 1983. Former Selectman James E. Thompson recently said, “I’ve known Michael Hassett for the better part of my life. He is without doubt a man of goodwill, integrity and compassion. Just like his father Atty. Ed Hassett, Michael’s law career was TIMES photo by Joan Paris Michael T. Hassett, esquire, retired Wilbraham town counsel, will be feted at a Testimonial Benefit on Wednesday, Dec.2 in St. Cecilia’s Church Hall at 42 Main St. from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event is open to the public. never about personal success, but rather about providing his clients with deliberate, professional and compassionate representation. Simply put, he is one of the most outstanding human beings I’ve ever met and I’m a better person for having Mike as my friend.” Hassett worked as an attorney in the law firm of Bacon & Wilson until 1985 and in the law firm of Keyes & Donnellan until 1990. He became Wilbraham town counsel in 1988, also establishing Hassett & Buendo, PC in 1991 and Michael T. Hassett, PC in 2012. He served as Town Counsel for the Three Rivers Fire District from 2007 until early spring 2015 and has taught on campus at Holyoke Community College, instructing Uniform Commercial Code and as a 20year adjunct professor on Business Law and Communications at Western New England University. “Mike always had time for you no matter how busy he was and he was a gentleman in dealing with people. His stories and jokes are priceless,” according to Wilbraham Fire Chief Francis W. Nothe. Instrumental in Agreements Hassett held many Board of Director positions over the years as well. He served on the Massachusetts Business Administration Professional ethics Committee in 1980 and at the Children’s Study Home from 1985 until 1992. He began in town as a volunteer on the Wilbraham By-Law Study Committee serving in 1986 until 1987 and again in 2003. “When I was first selectman in town,” said Kevin J. Moriarty, “Michael had just served on the Wilbraham By-Law Review Committee, and the board appointed him to the position of town counsel. I, Louise Voss and John Lovejoy served at that time. “Three large projects come to mind when I think of Michael. The Soccer Field Land Use Agreement, the completion of the town’s additional nine holes to the Country Club of Wilbraham Golf Course, and the town purchase of Jessie Rice’s Fruit Farm.” According to Moriarty, Bill Hicks, a member of the golf committee worked well with Hassett to renew a workable lease between the group and the town to complete an 18-hole golf course on Stony Hill Road. Moriarty also touted Hassett’s ability to “provide sound and prudent advice to handle legal issues. He offered a Land Use Agreement on the soccer fields at Wilbraham Middle School when the group petitioned for a lease. Michael argued that would not be in the town’s best interest and it was the Use Agreement that allowed all parties to move forward.” Fundraiser ongoing to exhibit artist’s work ARTIST from page 1 Huntington’s disease for the last 15 years. When symptoms became too much for her to balance with her artwork, she helped Peter with their graphic design business, first doing illustrations for advertisements, and then taking care of the bookkeeping and administrative work. With Peter by her side, on Oct. 14, she passed away from complications of the genetic disease. For many, with the death of a loved one follows funeral, burial and memorial services. The Lehndorff’s are different. Peter explained that he hadn’t planned for such services. The couple planned to donate her brain to the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center, commonly referred to as the “Brain Bank,” through Harvard University. Her body would be donated to the University of Massachusetts Medical School for educational purposes. As an affiliated school with the center, UMass would remove the brain and transport it to Harvard at no cost. Sometimes, even the best of plans unravel at the seams. Kathy passed at approximately 3 p.m. after Peter wet her tongue with her favorite Chardonnay and played her favorite film, “Gone With The Wind.” Being present and of a sound state of mind, the hospice nurse made the phone call to UMass in order to arrange for transport. He then heard seven words he never expected: “You have got to be kidding me!” Undergoing renovations to the medical center, UMass informed that they were unable to accept a body. UMass referred them to Harvard Medical School, which Peter thought would be the easiest solution. He said when they called Harvard Medical School, Harvard informed they could only accept the whole body and would not deliver the brain, citing policy. Calls to the Brain Tissue Resource Center confirmed that UMass was the only facility that would handle the body the way he wanted. Abandoning his original plans, Peter decided to donate his wife’s body to the Harvard Medi- cal School. That decision still left him with a dilemma: how to get Kathy’s body across the state. Harvard wouldn’t pick up her body and he couldn’t transport her in his own vehicle. Facing no other options, Peter had to call a funeral home. He explained when he looked up the numbers of local funeral homes, his mind wasn’t at its most rational state. “I probably should have done more research,” he said. He only called one, which he will not name publicly, but noted that his decision was made largely because it was local and didn’t seem too elaborate. Because he was only having the body transported, he said the thought never occurred to discuss or negotiate the expense. The home confirmed that it receives a $600 stipend for body donations and said they would work with him on the cost should the expense go over that amount. When he received the bill, with a credit of $600, he was dismayed to see he owed nearly $4,000. Even with the help of his lawyer, he said they would only The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page 29 Buzzin’ from Town to Town Classifieds Turley Publications’ Community Marketplace For Sale Services ANTIQUE AND PERIOD chairs – Restored with new woven seats – Many styles and weaves available. Call (413)267-9680. A CALL WE HAUL WE TAKE IT ALL WE LOAD IT ALL Lowest Rates, accumulations, junk, estates, attics, garages, appliances, basements, demo services 10% disc. with this ad. All Major CC's CALL NOW (413)531-1936 WWW.ACALLWEHAUL.COM EASY STREET ANTIQUES. Buying one item or entire estates. Buying antique & vintage glassware, pottery, Hummels, jewelry, coins, watches, military, toys, Legos, hunting, fishing, stringed instruments, tools & more. Call today. www.ezstreetantiques.com or (413)626-8603. Firewood !!!!ALL SEASONED RED & WHITE OAK!!!! Over a cord guaranteed. 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The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 30 Buzzin’ from Town to Town Classifieds Turley Publications’ Community Marketplace Cleaning Services Instruction CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOWS Cleaned inside/ outside including storms/ screens. Fully insured. Free estimates. Call Paul (413)237-2053. TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED A & B CDL CLASSES + BUS Chicopee, Ma (413)592-1500 UNITED TRACTOR TRAILER SCHOOL Unitedcdl.com Computer Services COMPUTERS SHOULDN’T BE frustrating or frightening. I’ll come to you. Upgrades, troubleshooting, set-up, tutoring. Other electronics too. Call Monique (413)237-1035. Electrician BILL CAMERLIN. ADDITIONS, service changes, small jobs for homeowners, fire alarms. Fast, dependable, reasonable rates. Insured, free estimates. E280333. 24 hour emergency service. (413)427-5862. DEPENDABLE ELECTRICIAN, FRIENDLY service, installs deicing cables. Free estimates. Fully insured. Scott Winters electrician Lic. #13514-B Call (413)244-7096. JAMES FERRIS: LICENSE #E16303. Free estimates. 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Call for information: 248-430-5555 Real Estate ATEKS TREE- HONEST, quality tree service. From pruning to house lot clearing. Fully insured. Free estimates. Firewood sales. (413)687-3220. Pets BE A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER - Financially needy? Call for assistance to spay/neuter your cat/dog. (413)565-5383 CONCERNED CITIZENS FOR ANIMALS. RETIRED RACING GREYHOUNDS AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION spayed/neutered, wormed, shots, heartworm tested, teeth cleaned Make a Fast Friend! Greyhound Options Inc. Call Mary at 413-566-3129 or Claire at 413-967-9088 or go to www.greyhoundoptions.org. Horses HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS offered year round at our state of the art facility. Beginner to advanced. Ages 4 years to adult. Boarding, sales and leasing also available. Convenient location at Orion Farm in South Hadley. (413)532-9753 www.orionfarm.net REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATES 967-7355 JILL A. GRAVEL, BROKER gravelrealestate.com Thinking of Selling? Call us today for a Free Market Analysis of your home! Make sure to ask for a Free One Year Home Warranty when you list your home with any Gravel RE Agent! Help Wanted CARE GIVER WANTED in Hampden for our special needs 10 year old daughter. After school and weekend hours available. Please call (413)566-3027. DRIVERS: LOCAL AGAWAM DryVan, Flexible Schedule & Experienced Yard Hostler Openings! Great Pay & Benefits! CDL-A, 1yr Exp. Req. Estenson Logistics Apply: www.goelc.com 1-855-416-8511. LINC’S PLUMBING LIC #J27222 Scheduling Replacement Heating Systems Now Call LINC’S For Your Connection (413)668-5299 DRIVERS: NE REGIONAL Run. $.44cpm. Monthly Bonus. Home Weekly. Complete Benefit Package. Rider Program Immediately. 100% No-Touch. 70% D&H. 888-406-9046 Garage Door Serv. Roofing MENARD GARAGE DOORS Authorized Raynor dealer specializing in sales, installation service and repairs of residential and light commercial overhead garage doors and openers. Fully insured. Free estimates. 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(413)536-3279, (413)348-9568, (413)204-4841. SNOW AND RAIN PROBLEMS – TRY GALVALUMNE METAL ROOFING 20 COLORS AND CARRIES A 40 YEAR WARRANTY CALL FOR A FREE BROCHURE FISH ASSOCIATES 413-596-4372 Call us toll free at 1-800-824-6548 HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM OUR HOMES TO YOURS CONTACT US AT [email protected] 7 days a week for any of your Real Estate Needs! For Sale TOOMEY-LOVETT 109 West St. Ware, MA 01082 www.Century21ToomeyLovett.com 413-967-6326 800-486-2121 West Brookfield: 508-867-7064 WANT RESULTS? LIST YOUR HOME WITH THE LOCAL EXPERTS!! WARE: Great first time buyer home. 3 bedroom colonial, cheaper than rent. Move in! $105,000.00 WARREN: Get a conventional loan and enjoy this cute 3 bedroom colonial. $114,900.00 Agents ready to show you what WARE has to offer! CALL TODAY Dorrinda O’Keefe-Shea Glenn Moulton Jill Stolgitis Mary Hicks Alan Varnum Bruce Martin Joe Chenevert Michael McQueston 978-434-1990 413-967-5463 413-477-8780 508-612-4794 508-867-2727 508-523-0114 508-331-9031 PALMER SMALL HOUSE, close to town, appliances, large yard $850/ mo plus utilities. First, last, security required. (860)749-2821. THREE RIVERS 3 BR apt. offstreet parking, w/d hook-up $850/ mo (413)583-8509. FOR RENT All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status (number of children and or pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, or any intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain about discrimination call The Department of Housing and Urban Development “ HUD” toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. For the N.E. area, call HUD at 617-565-5308. The toll free number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. 508-362-0533 Comm.Real Estate Office Rentals SELLING AFTER 10 years. Busy country store on VT southern tip of Champlain. 3 bedroom living above, see it and believe. Benson Village Store (802)537-2041. PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE for rent right off Mass. Pike Exit 7 in Ludlow: updated and quiet office in a premier remodeled professional building; new carpeting, lots of brightness and natural lighting in the office, ample free parking, front and rear entrances, ideal location. $575 per month plus utilities. Please call Rich at (413)237-9891. Mobile Homes WESTFIELD- 1999, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 14’x67’. Spacious kitchen, many cabinets. Newer aluminum roof, appliances, breakfast bar. $46,500. 413-593-9961 DASAP.MHVILLAGE.COM For Rent Vacation Rentals WARM WEATHER IS year round in Aruba. The water is safe, and the dining is fantastic. Walk out to the beach. 3-bedroom weeks available. Sleeps 8. $3500. Email: [email protected] for more information. Autos Wanted ALL REAL ESTATE advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. $$$ AUTOS WANTED TOP Dollar paid for your unwanted cars, trucks, vans, big and small, running or not. Call 413-534-5400. BUYING? SELLING? Check our Classifieds Your Ad Could Be Here! The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES November 26, 2015 Page 31 Ashe recognizes incarcerated veterans group REGION – Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr. observed Veterans Day by taking the opportunity to congratulate the Hampden County Correctional Center chapter of American Veterans in Prison for completing its 23rd year of operation. The group meets every Tuesday afternoon to give veterans the opportunity to gather as a community for mutual support and fellowship. Fifteen years ago, the group began holding an annual “Walk-AThon” at the correctional center, consistent with its mission statement that “even though we are incarcerated, we can continue to serve our nation by supporting local charities.” Over the years, the veterans have raised over $15,000 for local charities. This year, the veterans selected the Toy For Joy Fund and the Friends of the Springfield Veterans Center as the beneficiaries of funds from the Walk-A-Thon. The Hampden County Correctional Center veterans group has received the support of community veterans groups over the years, including American Legion Post 275 and Soldier On. The department works in conjunction with the Veterans Administration database to identify veterans in custody. Currently, 31 veterans are in the custody of the Sheriff’s Department, representing less than 3 percent of the daily census. In recognizing the veterans Fresh Air Fund seeks host family volunteers group, Ashe said, “I’m constantly urging those in our custody to join with others who are ‘reaching toward the light.’ When our veterans gather for mutual support and fellowship, they are taking steps toward returning to a positive, productive community life. I also am constantly urging those in our custody to seek to ‘give to,’ rather than ‘take from,’ the community that they will re-enter. Our veterans group’s annual Walk-A-Thon for local charities is right at the heart of that giving to the community. Our American Veterans In Prison chapter deserves the acknowledgement of the entire community of Hampden County for their support of each other in positive pursuits and their resultant contribution to the life of our community.” REGION – This November, many families in Pioneer Valley are thankful for something special: the gift of their friendship with a New York City child. Each summer, close to 4,000 New York City children from low-income communities visit suburban, rural and small town communities across the northeast and Canada through The Fresh Air Fund’s Volunteer Host Family program. Fresh Air children are boys and girls who live in New York City. Children who are reinvited by host families may continue with The Fresh Air Fund through age 18 and may enjoy extended trips. Through the eyes of Fresh Air children, families often rediscover the beauty of their own communities. For more information contact Susan Morrello at 413-687-3820 or visit The Fresh Air Fund online at www. freshair.org. Your Local Home Pros 1 8 7 3 4 5 6 2 1 SEPTIC SYSTEMS 2 LANDSCAPING & MAINTENANCE Hampden Septic KEVIN SACCO Licensed Electrician Pumping • Installation • Title 5 Inspections • Perc Tests 566-2916 Evening & Weekend Appointments Available! Billy Bond - The Area’s #1 “Go To” Septic Guy! Fully Insured • Family Owned 4 HEATING FUEL & SERVICE MA License #E50099 CT License #0200902-E1 SHOCKINGLY AFFORDABLE TAKING CARE OF ALL YOUR LANDSCAPE NEEDS! Mowing • Pruning • Mulching • Thatching • Spring Cleanup • Shrub Removal • Mailbox Install Aeration • Bobcat Work• Rock Installation • Fall Cleanup • Tree & Shrub Planting Contact: Mike Ciecko 413-949-9464 Email [email protected] [email protected] PAINTING 5 Cell 413-374-7262 6 Residential Commercial • Industrial FREE ESTIMATES EQUIPMENT RENTAL Marty’s Painting Co. Premium Heating Fuel • Fuel Dividend Budget Plan • Heating/Air Cond. Equipment • Stand by Generators Installation/Service 596-4583 2440 Boston Road • Wilbraham, MA 01095 7 ELECTRICIAN 3 SMALL ENGINE REPAIR BOB’S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR “TUNED IN ON SERVICE” Offering Complete Service on All Makes & Models Pick Up & Delivery Available Chain Saws • Lawnmowers • Snow Blowers • Tillers Cell 413-668-4167 • Shop 413-589-7778 Commercial & Residential • Ceilings Repaired • Drywall Repair • Interior & Exterior • Wallpaper Removal • Brush, Roll & Spray • Custom Staining • Pressure Washing • Handyman Services • Light Carpentry Work FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED 566-4983 Marty Artioli - Your Home Improvement “Go To” Guy! 8 Residential & Light Commercial 413-283-6010 413-774-2800 www.westcountyequipment.com TELL YOUR GARAGE DOORS SALES • INSTALLATION SERVICE & REPAIR Locations Throughout Massachusetts To Serve You Better Menard Garage Doors LLC Certified, Licensed, Insured 1020 Central Street • Palmer, MA 01069 • 413-289-6550 www.menardgaragedoors.com Local Home Pro YOU SAW THEM ON THE TURLEY HOME PROS PAGE! The Wilbraham-Hampden TIMES Page 32 November 26, 2015 Why Choose Brenda Cuoco? Because she produces incredible results! Over 52 homes sold* already this year. WITH BRENDA AND HER CONSULTANTS YOU GET: • Client care specialist • Marketing specialist • Staging specialist • Transaction specialist • A powerful negotiator with price and inspection negotiations • An aggressive marketing plan • Massive print advertising Brenda’s Raving Fans! B renda was Awesome when it came to helping us find our home. Being from the Carolinas and not knowing anything about Massachusetts Brenda was a life saver. She made me feel very good knowing that she would do her best to try to make this relocation go smoothly. I told Brenda what I was looking for, I have two boys, 9 and 12. I knew that finding the right school district was really important to my husband and I. Brenda treated us like we were buying a million dollar home. This showed me that Brenda was passionate about her work and wasn’t in it just for the $$$. My family and I are forever grateful for the help that Brenda gave us. I love where I live and my home and I owe that all to her!! I highly recommend her for your real estate needs. Rebecca Tarsi, Hampden • Knowledge in pricing properties appropriately for higher returns • A large buyer pool campaign system • Expertise, Experience and Fast Results B renda was absolutely amazing! We met Brenda in February of this year while we were touring a home; we had never heard her name before, but were so impressed by her knowledge base in real estate. More so, we were impressed by her knowledge of the local market, in Wilbraham, MA. When it came time to list our home, she did admit that Belchertown, MA was not an area in which she sold a lot of homes, but that she felt comfortable listing our home and felt that she’d be able to get it sold. To say that she came through for us would be an understatement. We listed our home at the end of March and within an hour we had a showing. After that, they just came pouring in, one after another. In the approximately 4 weeks that our house was on the market, we had 18 showings and an accepted offer. When we had previously had our house on the market with another realtor, our house was on the market for 4 weeks and we had only 3 showings. It was apparent to us that Brenda was the real deal! She had informed us beforehand that the average “days on the market” for comparable homes in Belchertown was approximately a year, so to have an accepted offer on our home for the price we wanted in only 4 weeks was absolutely outstanding! We also worked with Brenda in buying our new home, which is in the area that I think she is more familiar. She was incredibly quick to respond to phone calls, e-mails and even texts at almost any hour of the day. She was very honest with us, even when we didn’t necessarily want to hear what she had to say (i.e. things may not necessarily work out exactly how we had planned/expected). She helped us through a great deal of anxiety and was very patient, understanding and professional. In addition, her associates who we had brief interactions with (her “pending” consultant, for example) were wonderful to deal with as well. Overall, her knowledge base in both selling and purchasing real estate is second to none. Her marketing ability, specifically her ability to get our house seen by so many people, was incredible. If I had to recommend a realtor to ANYONE (friend, family, business colleague, ANYONE), I would recommend Brenda Cuoco without a doubt! She was not only our realtor, but, through this process, has become a friend as well. Emily Roy, Wilbraham CALL MY CELL: 413.214.5365 SEND AN EMAIL: [email protected] or visit: WWW.WMASSHOMEBUYER.COM *Based on information provided to and compiled by MLS Property Information Network, Inc. covering 1/1/15-11/21/15.
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