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Westfield job fair for displaced Berkshire Industries workers

By DAN DESROCHERS Correspondent WESTFIELD—The city of Westfield, along with two area nonprofits, are hosting a job fair on Nov. 16 to help those who lost jobs due to the abrupt closure of Berkshire Industries.

The city will be working with the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County (REBHC) and the Economic Development Council of Western Massachusetts (Western Mass EDC) to provide displaced workers from Berkshire Industries a job fair on Nov. 16, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the Genesis Spiritual Life Center on Mill Street in Westfield.

Around 80 employees were left without jobs following the closing of Berkshire Industries Oct. 26.

“We’d like to keep those Westfield employees continuing to work in Westfield,” Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan said.

According to City Advancement Officer Joe Mitchell, there will be nearly 40 companies that will be invited to the job fair.

According to Mitchell, many companies have been reaching out to the city in response to the displaced workers.

In addition, David Cruise, president and CEO of REBHC, said that over 30 companies have contact the REBHC about the workers.

“We have over 30 companies now that have contacted us and we’ve been in contact with each one of those companies,” Cruise said. “We indicated that we are in process of trying to get in touch with these individuals.”

According to Cruise, his group is looking to contact the displaced workers in order to attempt to help them find

The exterior of Berkshire Industries located at 109 Apremont Way, Westfield. employment. Cruise said that normally when an event of such large employment loss occurs, a state rapid response team goes in and provides assistance for the employees, with a member of that team being from the REBHC. However, due to how the event transpired this was not able to occur, Cruise noted.

Cruise said that the REBHC is still seeking the employees affected, so that they can put them in contact with companies seeking their help.

“As we ID them and then talk to them we have a significant number of employers willing to talk with these folks,” he said.

Westfield Boys & Girls Club site of tenth annual Adoption Party

By AMY PORTER Correspondent WESTFIELD – The Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) held its tenth annual adoption party to connect waiting children and adoptive families on Sunday afternoon at the Westfield Boys & Girls Club, with a grant from the Shurtleff Foundation.

Maurine Albano, MARE child services coordinator for the Western Mass region organized the family party, which she said is the most successful way of finding a match for a child. “It’s a chance for them to meet the children, rather than reading the home study,” she said.

Albano said that the majority of kids waiting to adopt are here in western Massachusetts (22%), but only 10% of the population lives out here. For that reason, she invites families from all over Massachusetts and also New York.

“We are trying to pull in families from anywhere we can get them to this event,” she said.

Joseph Sandagato, MARE director of communications and public relations, said the family parties, which are run in conjunction with the Department of Children and Famlies (DCF) are childcentered events with a lot of activities.

Some of the activities on Sunday included a wood working room sponsored by Home Depot, where the children were making toy tool kits. In the game room next door, there was ping pong, pool and foosball, along with face painting and jewelry making. A Westfield fire engine was also parked outside for the children to climb onto.

“This is one of the best ones we have in the state. We came all the way out from Lowell,” said Lissa Darrigo, a DCF adoption worker who accompanied some children who were playing in the game room.

Sandagato said 80 children came to the event, some of whom were legally free for adoption, and some who were not, but looking for foster families. 70 families also signed up, those who wanted to learn more about adoption, and others who had gone through the training process and were actively look-

Maurine Albano of MARE and Anne Marie DeVillier of DCF. ing to adopt. Sandagato said the event was open, and there were also walk-ins.

Sometimes a parent’s rights are already terminated, and the child is legally free,” explained Albano. “More often than not these kids are still in the balance, and most of these families here would foster. This is where most of our matches are made,” she added.

Anne Marie Devillier, DCF Springfield area officer further explained the process. She said the families that have been looking for adoption can meet the children. “We do get matches. The parties are very successful,” she said.

After making a connection, the next step would be a disclosing meeting with the family, where DCF would give the history of the child. After that, the interested family would meet with the foster parents and doctor, if the child is involved in early intervention, and with other people involved in the child’s life.

The family would then start visits with the child. The first meetings would be at the foster parent’s house, or a DCF worker would take them to a playground. The first couple of visits would be with a DCF worker, Devillier said.

Then, the child and family may spend

an hour or two in the community, and after that invite the child to their home.

“It all depends on how the child feels – there is no cookie cutter,” she said.

After the match is made, the child has to be residing with the family for six months before the paperwork can be started, if the child is legally free for adoption. If not, there would be a trial and appeal period, which could take an additional year,” DeVillier added.

“I love to see families sit down and interact with kids,” Albano said about the parties. She encourages them to speak with all the kids, including the older ones. She said sometimes a family comes in looking for a 5-year-old, but sits down with a 10-year-old and connects.

“That’s what I love, when they make the connection,” said Albano, who has two grown adoptive kids of her own, a son who is 32, and daughter, 28.

“They’ve been the best kids,” she said.

What Albano, who has been doing this for 20 years doesn’t want to see at the parties is a child leaving, saying that nobody picked them or talked to them.

“My heart is breaking,” Albano said.

Her focus will then be on how to make that not happen at the next party. “I love to see them leave with big smiles on their faces,” she added.

At this party, she said a limousine had pulled up about an hour earlier. She said one of the adoption workers from the Eastern part of the state had wanted the four or five older children she had brought to come in style, and feel “super special,” so she got somebody to donate a big, white stretch limo. “That is an amazing adoption worker,” Albano said, adding that the kids felt like “kings and queens.”

Albano was also grateful to the Boys & Girls Club for hosting. “Thank God for the Westfield Boys & Girls club and the Shurtleff Foundation – they sponsor two events a year,” Albano said.

According to MARE, there are currently over 2,800 children with a goal of adoption in Massachusetts. For more information about adoption and MARE, visit www.MAREinc.org, or call 617964-6273.

“We’re trying to get them back to work. we have a group of employers who have indicated interest in interviewing them, and for these employees that’s a really good situation,” Cruise said.

One way that identification can occur, Cruise said, is if those affected go to one of two regional offices in the area: CareerPoint, 850 High St., Holyoke, or FutureWorks, 1 Federal St., Springfield.

In addition, they can go to the job fair in Westfield next weekend.

Sunday’s Child: Selena Selena is a sweet, smart and determined five-year-old girl of Caucasian descent. Her favorite activities include doodling, coloring and counting. She is able to count up to 20!

Selena is on the Autism Spectrum.

She has some words, but is not yet able to utilize expressive language. Selena has impressed her caregivers with her ability to retain information like letters and colors, as well as her ability to follow directions that she is given. Selena is currently enrolled in a public school setting where she is receiving extra supports.

SELENA Legally freed for adoption, Selena’s social worker is open to exploring a family of any constellation where Selena can be the youngest or only child in the home. An ideal family for Selena will be able to advocate for Selena’s needs, seek appropriate resources, and provide her with unconditional love and support. They must also be willing to maintain contact with Selena’s birth parents in Massachusetts.

Who Can Adopt?

Can you provide the guidance, love and stability that a child needs? If you’re at least 18 years old, have a stable source of income, and room in your heart, you may be a perfect match to adopt a waiting child. Adoptive parents can be single, married, or partnered; experienced or not; renters or homeowners; LGBTQ singles and couples.

The process to adopt a child from foster care requires training, interviews, and home visits to determine if adoption is right for you, and if so, to help connect you with a child or sibling group that your family will be a good match for.

To learn more about adoption from foster care, call the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange (MARE) at 61754-ADOPT (617-542-3678) or visit www.mareinc.org. The sooner you call, the sooner a waiting child will have “a permanent place to call HOME.”

Correction: Westfield Youth Lacrosse

By LORI SZEPELAK Correspondent WESTFIELD-Melanie McNamara is the treasurer and registrar for Westfield Youth Lacrosse. She was incorrectly identified in Friday’s edition on a new indoor lacrosse league starting in the city. We apologize for the error.

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TODAY IN HISTORY Today is Monday, Nov. 6, the 310th day of 2017. There are 55 days left in the year.

O

n Nov. 6, 1977, 39 people were killed when the Kelly Barnes Dam in Georgia burst, sending a wall of water through Toccoa Falls College.

er died in prison in 2014 at age 77.)

In 1990, about one-fifth of the Universal Studios backlot in southern California was destroyed in an arson fire.

ON THIS DATE:

TEN YEARS AGO: Six lawmakers were killed by a suicide bomber in northern Afghanistan during a visit to a sugar factory; 61 students also died as a result of the bombing and shots fired by guards. Country singer Hank Thompson died in Keller, Texas, at age 82. George Osmond, father of Donny and Marie Osmond and patriarch to the family’s singing group The Osmond Brothers, died in Provo, Utah, at age 90.

In 1860, former Illinois congressman Abraham Lincoln of the Republican Party was elected President of the United States as he defeated John Breckinridge, John Bell and Stephen Douglas.

In 1861, Confederate President Jefferson Davis was elected to a six-year term of office.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama rolled to reelection, vanquishing Republican Mitt Romney as he picked up 332 electoral votes compared to 206 for the former Massachusetts governor; Obama also received 51 percent of the popular vote as opposed to 47 percent for Romney.

In 1906, Republican Charles Evans Hughes was elected governor of New York, defeating newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst.

In 1928, in a first, the results of Republican Herbert Hoover’s presidential election victory over Democrat Alfred E. Smith were flashed onto an electric wraparound sign on the New York Times building.

ONE YEAR AGO: FBI Director James Comey abruptly announced that Democrat Hillary Clinton should not face criminal charges related to newly discovered emails from her tenure at the State Department. Eritrea’s Ghirmay Ghebreslassie and Kenya’s Mary Keitany won the New York City Marathon.

In 1934, Nebraska voters approved dissolving their two-chamber legislature in favor of a nonpartisan, single (or “unicameral”) legislative body, which was implemented in 1937.

TODAY’S BIRTHDAYS:

In 1947, “Meet the Press” made its debut on NBC; the first guest was James A. Farley, former postmaster general and former Democratic National Committee Chair; the host was the show’s co-creator, Martha Rountree.

Actress June Squibb is 88. Country singer Stonewall Jackson is 85. Singer Eugene Pitt (The Jive Five) is 80. Singer P.J. Proby is 79. Actress Sally Field is 71. Singer Rory Block is 68. Jazz musician Arturo Sandoval is 68. TV host Catherine Crier is 63. News correspondent and former California first lady Maria Shriver is 62. Actress Lori Singer is 60. Actor Lance Kerwin is 57. Rock musician Paul Brindley (The Sundays) is 54. Former Education Secretary Arne Duncan is 53. Rock singer Corey Glover is 53. Actor Brad Grunberg is 53. Actor Peter DeLuise is 51. Actress Kelly Rutherford is 49. Actor Ethan Hawke is 47. Chef/TV judge Marcus Samuelsson is 47. Actress Thandie Newton is 45. Model-actress Rebecca Romijn is 45. Actress Zoe McLellan is 43. Actress Nicole Dubuc is 39. Actress Taryn Manning is 39. Basketball player Lamar Odom is 38. Actress Patina Miller is 33. Actress Katie Leclere is 31. Singer-songwriter Ben Rector is 31. Singer-songwriter Robert Ellis is 29. Actress Emma Stone is 29. Actress Mercedes Kastner is 28.

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower won re-election, defeating Democrat Adlai E. Stevenson.

In 1962, Democrat Edward M. Kennedy was elected Senator from Massachusetts.

In 1976, Benjamin L. Hooks was chosen to be the new executive director of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, succeeding Roy Wilkins.

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan won reelection by a landslide over former Vice President Walter Mondale, the Democratic challenger.

In 1986, former Navy radioman John A. Walker Jr., the admitted head of a family spy ring, was sentenced in Baltimore to life imprisonment. (Walk-

Annual Holly Bazaar

Hilltown Artisans Guild Holiday Show & Sale, November 11-12, 2017 WORTHINGTON — The Hilltown Artisans Guild will host their annual juried Holiday Show and Sale at the Worthington Town Hall on Saturday and Sunday, November 11-12, 2017, from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm both days. The show features the work of fine artists and craftspeople from throughout the western Massachusetts region, with additional new artisans this year! Visitors will enjoy a wide array of fine handcrafted goods, including pottery, watercolor, oil and acrylic paintings, adult coloring books, photography, cards, mixed media, collage, functional art, jewelry, fiber arts, handmade soaps, wood turned art, wood carvings, pyrography and more, all available for purchase. Refreshments will be provided by the vendors. For more information, please see the Hilltown Artisans Guild website: http://www.hilltownartisansguild.org.

Westfield Homeless Cat Project’s Holiday Gift Basket Sale Visit us at the following locations from 9am-4pm: Sunday, 11/12—Petco, Holyoke.

Saturday, 11/18—Wal-Mart,Northampton.

Sunday, 11/26—Wal-Mart,Westfield.

Sunday, 12/10—Wal-Mart,Westfield.

Help homeless cats in ourcommunity this holiday season! We are a no-kill & non-profit 501(c)(3) catand kitten rescue group serving homeless cats across Western MA.

SOUTHWICK — The Southwick Congregational Church at 488 College Highway in Southwick, MA will be having their annual Holly Bazaar on Saturday, December 2, 2017 from 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM. The Holly Bazaar features 26 local crafters and will showcase homemade jewelry, soaps, yarn crafts, and more. This year we have many new vendors with original items including “Inspirational Bricks,” woodcrafts, and embroidery. The Holly Inn features homemade soups for a nice light lunch. A raffle and baked goods will also be available at the bazaar. Please call the church office at 413-5696362 for more information.

ODDS & ENDS TONIGHT

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Clear Skies.

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Today, rain likely. Thunder possible. High 64F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Tonight, clear skies. Low 34F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Tuesday, partly cloudy skies. High 51F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Tuesday night, cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 31F. Winds light and variable. Wednesday, sunshine along with some cloudy intervals. High 51F. Wednesday Night, partly cloudy.

Low around 30F. Winds light and variable.

TODAY

6:31 a.m.

4:40 p.m.

SUNRISE

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Prankster tosses yellow dye into Lincoln Center’s fountain NEW YORK (AP) — A prankster has thrown yellow dye into the fountain at New York’s Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

Photos posted on social media Saturday show lemon-yellow water gushing from the fountain, which sits in front of the Metropolitan Opera and is a popular tourist attraction that has been featured in movies including “Moonstruck” and “Ghostbusters.”

The Daily News reports the fountain was turned off after suddenly changing color Saturday afternoon.

A Lincoln Center spokeswoman says security notified the police, who are looking for the prankster. She says the fountain is being cleaned.

LOCAL LOTTERY LAST NIGHT’S NUMBERS

MASSACHUSETTS MassCash 01-15-29-30-31 Mega Millions Estimated jackpot: $59 million Numbers Evening 2-2-5-6 Numbers Midday 0-0-8-1 Powerball Estimated jackpot: $75 million

CONNECTICUT Cash 5 04-09-16-21-31 Lucky Links Day 01-02-03-05-07-08-15-18 Lucky Links Night 02-03-05-07-10-11-16-19 Play3 Day 7-5-8 Play3 Night 8-3-9 Play4 Day 7-8-1-5 Play4 Night 3-3-8-8

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Government Meetings MONDAY, NOV. 6 SOUTHWICK: Board of Assessors Meeting at 5:30 pm Historical Commission Meeting at 7 pm Conservation Commission Meeting at 7 pm

BLANDFORD: Assessor’s Meeting at 6 pm Police Department Meeting at 6 pm Zoning Board Meeting at 7 pm Selectboard Meeting at 7 pm

TOLLAND: Board of Selectmen at 5 pm

WESTFIELD: Police Commission at 6:30 pm School Committee at 7 pm

HUNTINGTON: Planning Board Meeting at 7:15 pm

CHESTER: Board of Selectmen Meeting at 6 pm

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City Wide Leaf Collections December 9th WESTFIELD — City Leaf collection will be performed for the entire city on Saturday, December 9th.

Leaves should be placed curbside in paper bags (no plastic) by 7 a.m.

Please note, unlike previous years in which normal trash pickup days were assigned different leaf pickup dates, for 2017 all neighborhoods will be picked up on the same date.

PAGE 4 - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2016

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2016 - PAGE 5

CANDIDATE PROFILES: CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE CANDIDATES • AT LARGE CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES APPEAR IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER

DAN ALLIE

BRENT BEAN II

Dan Allie

Brent Bean, II

By DAN DESROCHERS Correspondent WESTFIELD—At-Large City Councilor Dan Allie is seeking to continue to be a “fiscal watchdog,” as he seeks reelection.

Allies is seeking his third term as an At-Large City Councilor in Westfield. According to Allie, he wants to provide information for residents and act as a fiscal watchdog and to protect residents.

“I want to continue providing residents with information on important issues that impact our daily lives concerning education, public safety, transportation, state funding, regulations, spending and taxes, through meetings, articles, ballot questions, phone calls, email, knocking on thousands of doors, social media and video,” Allie wrote in an email.

At-Large City Councilor Dan Allie On why he decided to run for office, Allie wrote, “I decided to run for office because I was concerned about the future we are leaving our children, the quality of education and opportunities they will have. I was also concerned with the direction our government was going, spending, and increasing property taxes and the condition of our roads.”

Allie, a three-year US Army veteran and small business owner, wrote that he looks to be a fiscal watchdog, as well as “protect residents and small business from over regulation and excessive fines.”

Among his accomplishments, Allie cited his role in the Business Improvement District, which “unfairly changed the rules and burdened small businesses,” as well as his opposition to the Complete Streets “policy because it took control away from local officials and would have added costs to all public and private projects.” Allie also opposes a four-year term for the Mayor, and “recently launched a campaign with signs and citywide mailing to inform people about the question and urge people to vote no to extend the term of just the Mayor. It will not save money, as city elections would still be held every two years.”

In addition, Allie indicated that he also advocated for the use of excise tax, Chapter 90 funding and the increase in the meals tax to go toward fixing roads and supported the Director of Public Works David Billips in sewer upgrades and maintenance.

Also, Allie was successful in getting an abutter’s notification ordinance passed, which notified residents within 300 feet of upcoming potential parcel changes, and he said that he is working on an ordinance related to fire pits that “will allow the safe use of fire pits and small campfires and protect residents from fines of between $1000 and $25,000.”

Regarding taxes, Allie suggests that spending be controlled in order to better utilize funds in the city.

Allie wrote, “The debate over residential versus commercial misses the mark. Both are paying their fair share of taxes.”

Instead, Allie wrote that the issue is the city cannot spend more than it takes in.

“The biggest challenge facing the city is balancing the budget, providing services and not overtaxing residents and small businesses. The other challenge is informing the public, getting people involved and putting pressure on government and politicians to balance the needs of all our citizens,” Allie wrote.

By DAN DESROCHERS Correspondent WESTFIELD—For At-Large Councilor and City Council President Brent Bean, II, it is his experience that makes him a vital candidate for the At-Large Council position.

Bean is seeking reelection for his position as At-Large City Councilor this Tuesday.

Bean, who is a third-generation resident of Westfield, is the longest serving current member of the City Council, being there for 14 total years.

He believes that this experience is crucial for City Council.

“I think institutional knowledge is important and definitely plays a vital role in decision-making,” Bean said.

Bean said that the institutional knowledge can provide key information for residents and others. Bean said that he has this, with experience as four-time City Council President and a former Water Commissioner.

Westfield City Council President Brent B. Bean, II. (WNG File Photo) “What I’ve seen the last couple of years, so many untruths out there about what the facts are. The institutional knowledge is very important,” he said.

Bean said he prides himself on his accessibility.

I’m very, very approachable,” he said. “If I don’t know the answers I try to find them and go from there.”

He also said that as City Council President he has worked with everyone, in addition to putting councilors on committees that he agreed with and others that he disagreed with.

Bean also said that his top priority is promotion of the city.

“Number one on my list is finding a way to market the city appropriately,” he said.

Bean said that the city’s location, which is off the Massachusetts Turnpike, the amount of open land for development, as well as Barnes Regional Airport and the City’s own utility all provide great aspects for businesses to thrive.

“We have to get better at promoting what we have and to make it easier to develop,” he said.

As for infrastructure projects, Bean said that he would like to see larger projects, such as the Columbia Greenway and the Western Avenue project, wrap soon to give residents a break.

“Those are big construction projects hopefully coming to an end soon,” he said.

In addition, Bean said that education is important, and that he can continue to work with the appropriate parties to provide quality education for students. Also, he said that an addition to the high school and a new elementary school are priorities for the city.

“I want this place to be a place where my kids after college can settle down and stay,” he said. “We are slowly getting there, but we are not there yet.”

JOHN BELTRANDI III

JEFFREY CHAGNON

STEVE DONDLEY

MATT EMMERSHY

John

Beltrandi, III

Jeff Chagnon

Stephen Dondley

Matt Emmershy

Dave Flaherty

Cindy C. Harris

By DAN DESROCHERS Correspondent WESTSFIELD—For At-Large City Councilor John Beltrandi, III, his focus for reelection is to continue promoting business and fiscal responsibility.

Beltrandi is seeking reelection as an At-Large City Councilor after gaining the position following the resignation of Dan Knapik earlier this year. For Beltrandi, this is his second time on City Council, with the first occurring in 2013. Before his most recent time as City Councilor, Beltrandi was the Chairman of the License Commission, and is also an Air National Guard veteran. Beltrandi wants to continue to utilize his experiences as a business owner to provide for the residents of Westfield.

“We are looking for ways to stretch a dollar, we’re getting less and less from the state,” Beltrandi said. “I think that someone with a business background has a much better grasp of that, and I’m a businessman in Westfield.”

According to Beltrandi, he owns a Westfield-based business, Belco Construction, which ties him to the city closely.

“I’m an employer, we do a lot of business in town, So I have a vested interest in the city,” he said.

And Beltrandi wants Westfield to become more attractive to businesses.

“You have to give people a reason to want to live here, and if you don’t make it attractive for businesses people don’t want to live here,” he said.

Another focus for Beltrandi, which he said is among the most important, is the city’s water.

“Right now, one of the most important things is the water situation,” he said. “We have a responsibility to the residents to make clean, drinkable water.”

Beltrandi said that there is a cost to this however, especially due to the issue of contamination and the need for a new water treatment facility.

“Ultimately, whoever is responsible for the contamination is going to shoulder the cost for the new filtration plant,” he said. “But we have to build it.”

Relatedly, Beltrandi said that the city must also focus on protecting the Barnes Aquifer, which is a vital source of water in the city.

“We have a huge aquifer that an airport is sitting on top of,” he said, referring to Barnes Regional Airport.

“That’s a primary concern and something that needs to be dealt with.

Also, Beltrandi said that he would like to continue to focus on sewer expansion within the city and other infrastructure.

“These are projects you bond for, infrastructure projects you have to do,” he said.

“Roads and infrastructure are a continual thing.”

Also, Bentrandi said that downtown needs foot traffic created to help businesses.

Part of this, according to Beltrandi, is the completion of the Columbia Greenway.

By GREG FITZPATRICK Correspondent WESTFIELD – Working for several large insurance companies for the past 20 years doing project management, Jeff Chagnon has done a lot of collaborating with a wide variety of people.

Having experience running his own division at a company, Chagnon has had to give a hard look at the budget.

“You have to be fiscally responsible and talk about cause and effect,” said Chagnon.

The Westfield resident is hoping that his knowledge of fiscal responsibility can translate to city government as he is vying for a seat as an At-Large City Councilor.

Chagnon wants to see a balance between spending and taxes and he wants to make sure that residents will know what their taxpayer money is going towards.

“I really think we need to fix our spending issue,” said Chagnon.

When it comes to spending, Chagnon wants to focus on areas that he feels need to be improved upon the most. His focus centers on repairing some of the damaged roads in the city, making Westfield more business friendly, and also trying to make progress with the water contamination issue.

City Council At-Large candidate Jeff Chagnon.

While Chagnon wants to be completely transparent with the community with the water contamination problem, he would also like to see if he can find answers.

“If we don’t keep pressure on the state and the air base, who is going to pay for that?” said Chagnon.

With many small businesses in Westfield owned by people that live in the city, Chagnon wants to see more options created for small business owners.

“Those are the people that we should really be supporting,” said Chagnon.

Chagnon wants to see more stability for businesses and giving them a steady tax rate to run their business. In order to do that, Chagnon wants to see more businesses call Westfield home, that way the financial burden can shift to a greater amount of tax payers and ease the burden for all.

Chagnon has been knocking on doors throughout the city and often spending several minutes speaking with residents about the city budget and taxes and through those interactions he reminds the public why a vote for him for City Council would be a wise decision.

“A vote for me is a vote for fiscal responsibility,” said Chagnon.

Focusing on representing the residents of Westfield, Chagnon believes that the public will appreciate his transparency and honesty.

“I’m not going to tell you what you think,” said Chagnon. “What you see is what you’re going to get.”

By DAN DESROCHERS Correspondent WESTFIELD—For At-Large Councilor Stephen Dondley it is important to protect schools and important city projects from what he views as harmful cuts.

Dondley, seeking his second term as an At-Large City Councilor, wants to continue to protect certain services from harmful cuts, while also protecting citizens with legislation such as the tax deferment modifications for senior citizens and joining the lawsuit against the opioid industry.

For Dondley though, he said that schools are the most important.

At-Large City Councilor Stephen Dondley “Schools are the number one issue. In 2016, I made a motion for a zero percent tax cut for the schools and I cast the deciding motion on that vote,” Dondley said.

This passion for schools is why Dondley became involved in politics. According to Dondley, when there was a suggestion in 2010 for a potential $700,000 cut to the school’s budget, he became involved.

“That got me riled up. I decided to get involved, started to go to the meetings,” he said.

“The goal was to get parents and people who were concerned about the cuts together and try to fight back against the cuts, so that was successful,” Dondley said.

Following this and the stabilization of his business, Dondley, a US Navy veteran, decided to run for City Council in 2013 and just missed being elected by a narrow margin. His passion never waned so he ran again in 2015 and won.

Dondley said that this growing experience makes him a valuable member of the council. In particular, Dondley said he has continued to learn the political aspect of the job.

“Getting along with others, coordinating to get things accomplished,” he said. “only way to learn is by doing it.”

In addition, Dondley said that his recent efforts as City Councilor have been accomplishments worth noting.

According to Dondley, he has pushed for an expansion of the real estate tax deferment for seniors, known as the “circuit breaker credit,” which would benefit seniors and keep up with other communities.

In addition, Dondley has looked into the possibility of joining other communities to hold drug manufacturers accountable related to the opioid crisis.

“Just like with the tobacco industry where you had local governments stepping in, there’s a similar movement to hold drug manufacturers and companies accountable for their effects,” Dondley said.

He said that the potential has an initial cost of zero for the city, but footwork would be involved.

Additionally, Dondley said that the city should focus on economic development.

“We really have to focus on economic development to get money in,” he said. “We haven’t done a good job of that in Westfield.”

According to Dondley, the city’s revenue from commercial and industrial property is 27 percent, while nearby communities has higher amounts.

“What I’m trying to do is create a brain trust of people to think long term to get it closer to 33, 34 percent of revenue,” he said.

By GREG FITZPATRICK Correspondent WESTFIELD – Matt Emmershy never set out to run for a seat on City Council At-Large this year, but after attending the budget hearing this past June, he felt that he needed to be more involved.

Describing that the room inside Westfield City Hall was packed and pouring out to the hallway, all types of individuals were there.

From Emmershy’s observations, the common theme he saw concerning the residents was calling for fiscal control. Following that, the next night the budget was passed and Emmershy believed only small cuts were made. More than $400,000 was cut from the $126 million budget.

That result triggered Emmershy to decide that it was time to put forth his own effort to be on the City Council.

“If there’s something I can do about it, I’m going to do something about it,” said Emmershy. “Essentially, I reached my breaking point where I said enough is enough.”

After having success in selling phones, Emmershy was able to gain financial experience by investing in real estate and began to own properties in the local area.

As a landlord, Emmershy understands the housing needs of individuals and the costs that they might bare on a daily basis.

Emmershy dealt with the difficult balance of acknowledging the struggles of his tenants while making sure his finances are in order.

“As a landlord, you have budgets, you have bills that need to be paid,” said Emmershy. “I have to take into account what people can afford.”

With calling for fiscal control being his top issue to tackle if elected to City Council, Emmershy also wants to focus on Westfield’s infrastructure.

“You drive through Westfield’s roads, you see the condition of them,” said Emmershy. “Every dollar we get for roads as far as I’m concerned needs to be put towards roads.”

For Emmershy, it’s not just finances and infrastructure, he also wants to help improve the transparency between city government and the community.

Emmershy has been known recently for filming finance committee meetings and then posting them onto his Facebook page and the community forums for the public to see. By having the public more aware of what is going on in city government, he hopes that can have a positive effect moving forward.

“We’ve gone away from governing by the people,” said Emmershy. “We need to get back to it.”

Reminding folks that he’s not a politician or a lawyer, but a Westfield resident of more than 15 years who isn’t looking to push an agenda.

“I’m a resident of this city who’s just looking out for the average person,” said Emmershy. “I just want what’s best for the city where I’m raising my young family.”

By AMY PORTER Correspondent WESTFIELD – At-large City Councilor Dave Flaherty is seeking his fifth term in office, having served eight years on the City Council. He is a member of the Finance sub-committee, and chairs the Long Range Financial Overview sub-committee. He is also the City Council liaison to the Historical Commission.

Flaherty said that over the past eight years there has been more openness and transparency in office. He said the two branches of government, the City Council and the Mayor’s office are more equal than they used to be, and there is not as much “rubber-stamping.”

He said budget matters are also much more closely reviewed.

“People think we work for the Mayor, but we’re an equal branch of government,” Flaherty said.

Flaherty has lived in Westfield for 20 years. Originally from Brockton, he moved between 10th and 11th grade to Simsbury, CT and graduated Simsbury High School. He said his mother was a teacher, and his father an accountant. He earned his bachelor’s in engineering computer science from Northeastern University, a master’s in business administration from Western New England College, and pursued a master’s in computer science from RPI Hartford Graduate Center.

Flaherty is married and has two children who went to St. Mary’s and Westfield Public Schools.

In his professional life, Flaherty develops software and websites, and has been self-employed for 21 years. His company, DFA Group is active in the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, where he serves on the Business Community Affairs Committee that interfaces between local businesses and government. He is also a member of the Family Business Center of Pioneer Valley.

Flaherty has been active in the Boy Scouts of America for 11 years, and is also an instructor for Junior Achievement. Prior to the BSA, he served on the board of Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

In terms of city priorities, Flaherty listed long-term finances, road conditions, schools, and other infrastructure including sewer, water, water condition, and buildings “The biggest complaint besides taxes is roads,” he said, adding, “If we can’t afford to pay for it because budgets aren’t right, we can’t do any of these things.”

Flaherty is also a proponent for a balanced budget. “We hope to figure out how to balance the budget based on income. We can’t keep spending more than we’re taking in; can’t keep kicking the can down the road,” he said.

Another priority for the city, according to Flaherty is Westfield’s Other Post Employee Benefits (OPEB) liability. “We must find a way to honor commitments to the city’s employees in pension and health care. We’re way behind on both of them,” he said.

Flaherty believes in openness and transparency in city government, and the need for people to be informed. He would like to see full exposure, with all of the meetings broadcast and documents posted online. “People should get information ahead of the meetings,” he said.

“The most important thing by far is to show up and vote,” Flaherty said, adding that a small turnout would not be an adequate representation of the residents.

“There are 26,000 registered voters; it’d be nice to have half,” he said. He said during the last city election with an uncontested mayoral race, there was only 20% voter turnout.

By AMY PORTER Correspondent WESTFIELD – Cindy C. Harris is seeking a third term as At-large City Councilor in the Nov. 7 election. Harris is also the chair of the Personnel Action Committee, and a member of the City Properties Committee. She is the assigned City Council liaison to the Cultural Council and the library.

Harris said she plans to continue to be an advocate for the homeowners in Westfield. “In November, 2016, I promised to recommend a Pro-Homeowner’s Tax Shift Factor. I made this motion at the City Council Tax Shift meeting in December, 2016. It was successful, and resulted in a tax reduction,” Harris said.

She said she plans to do the same thing this December using Free Cash, Stabilization Funds and a homeowner-friendly tax shift factor “to achieve the same result.”

Harris said she has been opposed to the efforts to eliminate or modify the split tax rate system which has been in Westfield for over 35 years. “If we change to a single rate system now, all at once, a homeowner would see a tax increase of approximately 16%,” Harris said, adding that the increase would be in addition to the 2 ½% allowed yearly by Proposition 2 ½ and the assessor’s office.

Harris has a bachelor’s in psychology from Westfield State University, where she graduated summa cum laude. She is a former assistant tax assessor in Westfield. Currently, she is a human resource manager and human resource consultant. She is also a partner in the development of a “market rate housing” apartment complex on Broad Street, she said.

Harris refers to herself as “a proud Gold Star daughter of a Korean War casualty.” “Along with my concern for our homeowners, a priority for the next (2) years would be – as a Gold Star daughter – to increase the real estate tax exemption for our Wounded Warriors, as that exemption has not kept up with inflation,” Harris said. She said she would also continue to work on an increased exemption for “our older population who are in the same situation.”

In her personal life, Harris home-schooled a child to fifth grade, and is a long-time volunteer, including teaching at St. Mary’s School. She was married to former attorney and Westfield Mayor Michael O’Connell who recently passed away, and they have four children who are graduates of Westfield High School, Westfield Technical Academy and St. Mary’s.

DAVE FLAHERTY

CINDY HARRIS

‘MOON’ MAHMOOD

Muneeb “Moon” Mahmood

By GREG FITZPATRICK Correspondent WESTFIELD – After losing by 158 votes for the seat of City Council At-Large in the 2015 election, Muneeb “Moon” Mahmood is seeking a better outcome this time around.

Learning from his experience in 2015, Mahmood believes he can bounce back.

“It’s really not a loss, it’s not a defeat,” said Mahmood.

“I’m a big believer in perseverance.”

A 2012 graduate of Southwick-Tolland Regional High School, Mahmood was able to dive into politics at a young age as he was a legislative intern for Sen. Don Humason for nearly two years during high school.

After graduation, Mahmood attended Westfield State University and earned a degree in business management in 2015.

Mahmood is currently a flight instructor in the area and he believes that his business involvement will be able to translate smoothly on City Council.

“I come from a business background. I understand how to read a budget,” said Moon.

“We make budget decisions quarterly in our business.”

As a flight instructor, one of Mahmood’s responsibilities is being the eyes and ears of the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). In that role he must follow strict rules and regulations, skills of his occupation he believes can be a benefit on the City Council.

While the different types of skills that he can bring to City Council is important to him, Mahmood is just as focused on letting the community know what he’s passionate about most and that is, helping Westfield.

“I’m just passionate for this city in general,” said Moon.

Going deeper into the conversation, Mahmood discussed issues like the roads and infrastructure in specific sections of Westfield that need to be improved and the rise of taxes.

Having experience in business, Mahmood wants to see businesses in Westfield grow as a whole and has a plan set in place.

“We have to allow medium to large size business to come into Westfield and allow current small businesses to continue to grow,” said Moon.

“Once that happens, we start to increase our tax revenue, once our tax revenue goes up we have more money to allocate.”

Moon wants Westfield residents to know that he has a plan that they should follow when going to the polls in November.

“I’m here to solve the problems, and I will, I will fix them,” said Moon. “I have a vision, a direction where I want to lead this city towards.”

NICK MORGANELLI

Matthew T. Nick Morganelli VanHeynigen

By GREG FITZPATRICK Correspondent WESTFIELD – After serving two terms (2007-2011) as an At-Large City Councilor, Nick Morganelli has decided that it’s time to try and reclaim his old seat.

Locally known for being a television meteorologist, in his prior time as councilor Morganelli found it hard to be able to continue to serve with his work responsibilities.

After leaving the local news stations as a meteorologist, Morganelli has been working part time at WTNH in New Haven and is currently working on launching his own weather consulting business.

Having the time to now to be fully committed to City Council, it’s pretty simple as to why Morganelli decided to run once again.

“People have been asking me again,” said Morganelli.

“The reason I ran the first time was that I was asked by a lot of people.”

Being married with four children and an active resident in the community, Morganelli wants to generate the same type of involvement he had previously on the City Council.

2017 City Council At-Large candidate Nick Morganelli.

During his time on the council and also as a member of the Board of Directors for the American Lung Association, Morganelli helped draft the Clean Air Act of Westfield, which is still in effect today.

Since the state of Massachusetts already had a law prohibiting smoking on school grounds, Morganelli thought they could strengthen that law locally in Westfield by prohibiting smoking in parks. Now, areas in town like Park Square are smoke-free.

Serving on numerous subcommittees, including Health and Public Safety, Natural Resources, and Legislative Ordinance, Morganelli sees the importance of sub-committee meetings.

“Those meetings are really important to be at,” said Morganelli.

Discussing how City Hall can get filled with people interested in an important topic in the community, Morganelli notes that having more people attend sub-committee meetings could be a benefit for the city when attacking these issues.

“A lot of it has already been debated at sub-committee (meetings),” said Morganelli.

“I just want to see a change in that and I want to be an advocate for that.”

According to Morganelli, he attended every single Finance Committee meeting while serving on City Council, and is planning on being just as involved with Westfield’s finances moving forward.

Westfield has a rather large budget and Morganelli wants to dig more into what the city is spending the most on and give taxpayers a better idea of where their money is going.

“We have to be really careful with how we’re spending your money,” said Morganelli. “I want to make sure that there’s no unnecessary spending.”

Voting precincts for the 2017 Westfield municipal elections: WARD 1 PRECINCT A - SOUTHAMPTON ROAD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 330 SOUTHAMPTON ROAD WARD 1 PRECINCT B - WESTFIELD HIGH SCHOOL 177 MONTGOMERY WARD 2 PRECINCT A - WESTFIELD SENIOR CENTER 45 NOBLE STREET WARD 2 PRECINCT B - WESTFIELD SENIOR CENTER 45 NOBLE STREET WARD 3 PRECINCT A - FRANKLIN AVENUE SCHOOL 22 FRANKLIN AVENUE WARD 3 PRECINCT B - WESTFIELD TECHNICAL ACADEMY 33 SMITH AVENUE

MATT VANHEYNIGEN

WARD 4 PRECINCT A - SECOND CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 487 WESTERN AVENUE WARD 4 PRECINCT B - HIGHLAND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 34 WESTERN AVENUE WARD 5 PRECINCT A - MUNGER HILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 33 MALLARD LANE WARD 5 PRECINCT B - MUNGER HILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 33 MALLARD LANE WARD 6 PRECINCT A - PAPER MILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 148 PAPER MILL ROAD WARD 6 PRECINCT B - PAPER MILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 148 PAPER MILL ROAD

By AMY PORTER Correspondent WESTFIELD – Matthew T. VanHeynigen is seeking a third term as At-Large City Councilor.

He is chair of the Government Relations committee, a member of the Finance sub-committee, and City Council liaison to the Police Department.

VanHeynigen said he is most proud of being a part of the Finance Committee over the last two years and working with Mayor Brian P. Sullivan to address much needed efficiencies in the budget.

Specifically, he pointed to recent efforts to close out bonds that had unused funds remaining in them.

He also talked about the committee’s work to address efficiencies in the Information Technology area, saying the city was about ready to enter a contract with COMCAST until the Finance Committee looked at it more closely, and worked out an Intermunicipal Agreement with Westfield Gas & Electric to provide internet to the city.

Other achievements he listed have been in infrastructure improvements, long-awaited sewer work and bonding, and helping to make that possible. “My proudest accomplishment is being a part of the Finance Committee work with Bob Paul, chair,” he said.

He also said that just a few years ago, the City Council would get requests well into the fiscal year to pay prior year’s bills, adding that the mayor has had a sympathetic ear to this issue. “Look at how far we’ve come in the past couple of years,” he said, adding that this work resulted in the city being in a position to use Free Cash to make taxes a 0% increase last year.

VanHeynigen said his goals for the next term would be “to continue on this trajectory. Look for efficiencies with the Mayor and Finance Chair, to do things better, cheaper, more efficiently.” His other priorities would be road and stormwater improvements, and to look for bonding for larger items to be repaid by stormwater fees. “I want to continue the progress we’ve made on infrastructure work, and the cost savings,” he said. He also plans to work with Paul on improvements to Paper Mill Road.

A native of Westfield, “born and raised here,” VanHeynigen said he moved away for 12 years, living in Rhode Island, Boston, Virginia, and the Adirondacks. He said he chose to move back and get married to Melissa Gavel. He said they “went to high school together, met again 11 years later and hit it off.”

“Being back in Westfield opened by eyes to how great a community this is,” he said.

VanHeynigen worked and studied at Westfield State University for four years, receiving his master’s in public administration in 2008. For the past nine years, he has worked at Western New England University as Director of Grants, working altogether 13 years in higher education. He said his current job centers around financial accountability. Melissa has taught in the Westfield Public Schools for sixteen years. She is an art teacher at Paper Mill elementary four days a week, and at Abner Gibbs one day a week.

They have two children in public schools; one in pre-school and one in elementary school.

“If we don’t maintain the strength of our school system, it’s at our own peril, at the risk of (losing) residents and businesses that provide the tax base,” VanHeynigen said.

VanHeynigen said he is the youngest of four in his family, two of whom live in Westfield, and one in Chester. (He is also the uncle of Gateway senior and soccer star Jessica VanHeynigen, who recently scored her 100th point). His parents also still live in Westfield.

VanHeynigen said his ultimate goal as a city councilor is “doing better for the taxpayers by finding better ways to utilize their tax dollars, making tax dollars go farther.”

GARY WOLF

Gary Wolfe

By GREG FITZPATRICK Correspondent WESTFIELD – Having no experience in politics, Gary Wolfe is looking to bring a fresh and new perspective to the City Council as he seeks a seat as an At Large City Councilor.

Living in Westfield for more than 17 years, Wolfe has been involved in the community in various areas by serving on the Board of Directors as Treasurer for the Westfield Food Pantry for 10 years, singing at the St. John’s Lutheran Church and working on the Westfield 350th fundraising committee.

Before moving to Westfield, Wolfe attended Southwick High School and graduated in 1987. He worked at H.B. Smith out of high school and then worked at Berry Plastics for 20 years. Now, Wolfe manages Freihofer’s West Springfield store.

Being an involved resident and wanting to see the city continue to grow, Wolfe felt it was time this year for him to step in directly and hear the comments and concerns from his fellow neighbors.

“I’m a people person, I like to listen to people,” said Wolfe. “I’m willing to learn and grow.”

One of the first aspects of Westfield that Wolfe said he wants to work on improving is the vibrancy and activity that is occurring in downtown Westfield. While he noted all of the events, thriving small businesses, and creative ideas that have been flowing, Wolfe still believes that downtown hasn’t reached its peak yet.

“I’d like to see a little more,” said Wolfe. “I think we do have opportunities but I think we can explore and get a little more for residents to take in.”

Delving into his interest to assist small businesses in the city, Wolfe would like to see fees to small businesses end. But, on the other hand, the 48-year-old resident is eager to help the larger businesses in town and giving individuals more job opportunities.

“I’d like to just see Westfield get a better flow of industry,” said Wolfe.

Clearly a hot-button issue every year, the city budget is also a specific area that Wolfe would like to attack if elected onto City Council.

Wolfe said that he doesn’t want taxes to continue to increase, but he also doesn’t want several accounts to be cleaned out of the budget just so taxes don’t get raised.

If he becomes a member of the City Council, Wolfe wants to help improve the cohesiveness of the council.

“I would like to at least be a part of it to just to help the common working person,” said Wolfe. “I just feel that there’s a lot of disconnect lately.”

ATTENTION VOTERS! If you're unsure what Ward you live in, you can find that information on the City's web site at http://www.cityofwestfield.org/ 229/Wards-Precincts

PAGE 6 - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017

Letters to the Editor Dear Voter, In my first letter to the editor, I introduced myself, provided an overview of my track record as city councilor, and talked a bit about my leadership style. In this final, two-part letter, I’d like to first discuss the tremendous progress Westfield has made and my approach for building on that progress. After that, I would like to take an opportunity to rebut the misinformation and flawed logic forwarded by one of my opponents in his recent letter to the Westfield News.

Part I: On Continuing Westfield’s Progress When I first moved to Westfield in 2002, an acquaintance of mine asked, “Why would you ever want to live in Westfield?” Now, after fifteen years of living Westfield, I don’t get that kind of reaction any more. Instead, I hear all the time how outsiders are remarking on all the great progress Westfield has made over the past several years.

Despite what other candidates are trying to argue, my experience in meeting with well over one thousand voters is that a large majority Westfield residents feel the same way. Namely, that the quality of life here in Westfield is substantially better than it was a couple of decades ago. We’ve seen the completion of a second bridge over the Westfield river; the near completion of the rail trail; improvements to many major intersections, buildings and utility infrastructure, athletic fields, and recreational facilities; and our downtown is starting to come around as well. Decades of neglect are getting reversed.

But best of all, I see a huge surge in the people doing the heavy lifting of building our community. These are the people who believe in Westfield enough to devote their time, energy and resources to organize all the wonderful events and activities available to our residents. As a result, our city is booming with stuff to do and see. This is a wonderful community to raise a family in.

Westfield still has its share of flaws and we’ve had some setbacks. But if we are going to overcome our challenges, we can’t let them consume and enrage us. The politics of division, anger, and pettiness should not find a home in Westfield.

But still, some candidates have the idea that painting Westfield in the light of doom, gloom and dysfunction is the best way forward. They promulgate myths that Westfield is on the verge of financial collapse, that our water is poisoned, and that their local elected officials are neglecting the will of the See Steve Dondley, Page 8

Hello Westfield Stakeholders, My name is Cindy Sullivan and I’m seeking re-election for my third term on the School Committee. I have lived in Westfield with my husband Patrick (a Westfield native) for over 20 years. We have two children who attend Westfield Public Schools our daughter is a Senior at Westfield High School and our son is a Freshmen at the Westfield Technical Academy. We have owned a home in Westfield since 1997, and we all have been heavily involved in the Westfield community through volunteer work and participating in many organizations.

I’m a college graduate from Springfield College with a degree in Psychology. I’m proud to be the first person in my family to attend and graduate from college. Education is something I value at all levels..

As the Executive Director of the Southwick Senior Center I recognize the impact increased taxes and limited services have on our Senior Citizens. I was instrumental in bringing a Senior Tax Work Off program and received funding for a SHINE Counselor to work directly in our office so Seniors have access to healthcare inquires. Before my work with Senior Citizens I worked for a Specialized Foster Care Agency for 17 years. I had the daunting task of moving children and finding appropriate services and treatment for them. I also helped to stabilize them with the hope they live happily, learn without distraction, and build lasting relationships. I will always support the programs to address the drug epidemic such as the implementation of Botvin Life Skills that will be added to our Health Curriculum.

Educating the whole child will help families and decrease our dropout rate. I have sat in hundreds of Individual Education Planning (IEP) meetings advocating for Special Ed Services. I have supported the creation of SPED programs during my tenure on the School Committee saving the City approximately $1.2 million a year.

I have also supported the implementation of a Literacy Plan throughout our district. Literate learners are able to listen, speak, read, write, and comprehend more effectively. The SC has supported software programs and other interventions to meet the child’s needs. Implementing a bullying policy and supporting the creation of a new technology plan which includes a bring your own device component are also supported by me. I have also advocated for more equity in all of our schools. Our elementary and high schools are soaring with restructuring and the addition of great programs. I have also advocated for the middle schools to have equal educational opportunities and the decision to move to a 5/6th and 7/8th grade model is something I strongly supported. Sub-committees have been formed and the work is beginning. A necessary part of the process is including parents and teachers in these important discussions to make sure we are thinking of all aspects. I have supported the plan to build a new school.. Simply put we need a new school in our downtown. We are wasting money on fixing old schools with band aids when 2 buildings need to be closed. We will have cost savings with a reduction of administrators, potential custodial and office staff as well as outrageous utility bills. Our students who live downtown deserve a 21st century education. We are hoping the MSBA will allow us to build a 400 student school without encroaching on the 1.3 acres of land better known as Article 97. I have spoken to several residents who would be See Cindy Sullivan, Page 8

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

COMMENT Letter to the Editor To the Editor: Why I do this Westfield News, thank you again for giving the candidates for public office a forum to communicate with the voters.

I was going to write a final article covering the recent issues facing the city. Instead, I decided this “Letter to the Editor” from 2015 gives voters a much better insight into who I am, and why I do the things I do for everyone in Westfield. Please make every effort to VOTE on Tuesday. Thank you!

Dear Friends and Neighbors, The election is only a few short days away. I hope everyone makes the effort to get out and vote on Tuesday. This election is very important for Westfield, and the results will impact you and your family for many years.

I’ve been asked several times “Why do you do this?” and “Why are you so focused on the budgets?” I’ve always talked about the civic obligation to serve, and the goal of making Westfield a better place to live, work, and play. I’ve occasionally talked in more detail about “Why?” and “What drives me?”

I thought this would be a good time to talk about a few people who I think about when I’m serving, and that I hope you’ll think about when you are voting: my grandmother, Margaret Bernice Moore; and, my sons, Liam and Ethan.

My grandmother was born in 1905. She grew up in Milton Lower Mills. Her father worked at Baker Chocolate Factory.

She became a nurse and worked early-on for Dr. Joslin, the famous diabetes doctor, and eventually retired from Mass General Hospital after 50 years. She married in the 1930’s and lived in Dorchester most of her life. She was widowed in the mid-1940’s. She raised my father as a single mother during extraordinarily challenging times. She never re-married. She never owned a home. She never drove a car – she took the “T” everywhere she needed to go. In her 70’s and 80’s she was still fit and active and volunteering for the parish food bank and the Dorchester Women’s Club.

When I was a little kid, my family lived in Brockton, and my grandmother used to come over every weekend to babysit.

Later-on, during high school and college, I spent a lot of time with her. I actually got to see her once a week while I was in college in Boston – our date. She was in her late 70’s but she’d still make me a home-cooked dinner or I’d take her out somewhere. I remember working on a school project about the depression and talking with her about what it was like, and what it was like in general to live in the early part of the century. There were stories about big families, cars, and wars, and sicknesses, and struggles. Folks back then really did struggle.

But, they made the best out of what they had, and they lived within their means. She told me about how she managed money. She’d cash her paychecks and then distribute the money into a set of envelopes: rent, food, utilities, clothes, school, church, savings, etc… She did this for years. When she ran short, she juggled a bit, or she cut back on something. This is how the greatest generation did things. They lived within their means. They worked hard. They stood up and faced great challenges, and made great sacrifices, during the war. Family, and friends, and neighbors helped each other out. There was a community spirit and a sense of obligation to your family, your church, your community, and your country. There was a higher calling.

I was a tech guy, and always had the latest gadget. She was low-tech. I remember her listening to the Red Sox on her transistor radio. She had a color TV, but most of the time she preferred the transistor radio. She liked Eck and Stanley. When I graduated college in the mid-1980’s I started working for a local utility company. Like many others, I had a pager, and I eventually got a mobile phone. Everyone’s got one these days, but back then they were very special. The first call I made was to her – from my snappy Monte Carlo SS T-top. I thought she’d

Letter to the Editor To the Editor Once again, an opportunity to comment on the School Committee presents itself. In the Friday, October 27th Westfield News article covering the School Committee forum, the School Committee said that the Franklin Avenue School needs to close. Why? During the October 2 School Committee meeting, Bill Duval claimed Franklin Avenue was “a great school”. Two weeks later I congratulated him for standing up for Franklin Ave School. He responded by saying it has to close because it will “cost too much to fix it”. I said, “Bill, you said it was a great school!” Bill Duval; “They have to put out buckets when it rains.” Me; “They just put on a new roof!” Bill; “Well, you know….”. He then turned and walked away. Maybe after his praising comments of October 2, others reminded him of the ‘talking points’. Remember a few years ago when the City of Westfield spent millions on renovating City Hall? No children go to school at City Hall, but somehow millions of dollars were found to fix that up.

When asked about a new school on the Franklin Avenue School site, Mr. Gosselin is quoted as saying the Franklin site “wasn’t big enough”. According to the City’s records, Franklin Avenue School is on 9 acres of School Committee controlled land. Right now, the School Committee land at Cross and Ashley Streets is just 1.6 acres. Abner Gibbs has 3.5 acres. There are over 12 acres of unprotected School Committee land at the South Middle School. The S.C. had no problem sacrificing its land to make way for Amelia Park, the Children’s Museum, and the Boys and Girls Club. Why not for an elementary school? Cynthia Sullivan commented on the

Letter to the Editor To the Editor Hello Ward 3, and the rest of Westfield. With elections Tues., 1.

Vote do not let the nasties on line scare you away… Halloween is over and the sunlight is back. 2. Speaking of which I do not keep up with the stuff on line, especially the Westfield site. Why because NASTY tends to be the way of things and that is so dysfunctional.

One candidate complained that if there is a 4 year term for mayor, off year elections would have terrible turn out. The real problem is that, and it has been researched, the more negative the campaign and political env., the fewer people turn out. Turned off by the negatives, they tend to reject the process. Hasn’t our democratic process suffered enough with 2 parties having usurped civil authority (us) from the process, and all we feel is that by voting we are rubber stamping the results. I know local politics can be rough and dirty; been around and actively involved too many years not to know that. But, our mutual needs often rose above the mess. You are voting for them, to rep us and our city…are the nasties who you want.

Next, while on this tirade, why are candidates having the Mass.

Republican State Committee (MRSC on the stamped area) doing

be impressed, but she said “Who do you think you are? The President!” She thought it was a total waste of money, and that there was no reason to have a phone in a car. I remembered her envelopes, and remembered how she felt about wasting money on unnecessary things. I explained that the company wanted me to have it, and that it was their money – not mine. She still thought it was a waste of money.

She always talked about living to be 90. She wanted to live longer than anyone else in her family. In her own words she was “a tough ol’ broad”. She got her wish, but sadly passed away at 90 just after I got married, and just before we had children. We were actually on the way to give here the news, and to show her the ultrasounds, when she passed away.

My sons Liam and Ethan never got to know this greatgrandmother, but I think they’ve absorbed something genetically, and I hope they grow up to thinking about living within their means, and about service to others.

It’s hard. I know I’ve spent my own money on some silly things, or in ways that are not in my best long-term interest.

But, I try. I work hard to do the things we do. We’ve been able to go on some great adventures. We’ve explored national parks, climbed the highest mountains, and visited some great places in the United States. On the service front, we volunteer a lot. I spend hundreds of hours every year. They kids are both Boy Scouts. Liam’s an Eagle. Ethan’s working on it. They’ve also had, or will have, service opportunities with church, Honor Society, and other youth programs.

The next generation faces great challenges ahead. I’m not sure they are as capable of handling the struggles as the “greatest” generation was. They have been given too much. They have become entitled – or at least feel entitled – to many things.

I try to make sure that my kids know this, and know that they have to work for things, and plan for things, and know that service is important.

I’m concerned about the massive debts and snowballing obligations our generation is leaving them. They are already facing a tough economy, higher costs of living, higher federal taxes, global competition, and ridiculously expensive college bills (one year of college costs over twice as much as my parent’s first house).

When I’m reviewing city expenses, or voting on a budget, or trying to convince government to make changes in the way things are done, I’m thinking about the grandmothers and the next generations.

When the city spends money on certain things, I think about which envelope that money is coming out of, or what the next generation is going to have to give up in order to pay for this.

Will my kids be able to take their kids on great adventures? Or, will they struggle to make ends meet and pay their taxes?

Is it fair to waste taxes that are being paid using the limited income, or life savings, of our parents and grandparents? Is it fair to further burden the future generations?

I hope you think about these things when you drive by the granite pillars or the massive gazebo that will hardly ever be used, or when you read about the deficit spending and snowballing obligations that have become a way of life in government.

I hope you think about your parents, grandparents, and children when you vote on Tuesday.

It’s time for a dramatic change in the way things are done in government. New leadership is sorely needed.

I’ve been honored to serve as your city councilor. I hope you value my efforts and contributions to this city. I am asking for your VOTE once again on Tuesday.

Sincerely, Dave Flaherty, City Councilor At-Large Flaherty.Westfield@gmail.com

their mailings. This is a non-partisan election. And, while I know people use their political affiliations to bolster their campaigns, my belief for a local office; if you cannot raise funds here and purchase services here, why are you running here. While I do not think this is illegal, for me, as with the above, as I see it as slick, but unethical. Thank goodness that there are Republicans running for office who do not need to do this to run. Also, check with the Clerk’s Office you can see, who is funding whom and from where. It is interesting what people say and what they do are 2 very different things.

The next, next… the last City Council meeting. Those who complain about spending putting off a request by Mayor Sullivan to attend a meeting to go line by line on $1.5 in reductions with the dept. heads present to these items. No show. How serious are they about cutting the budget? Remember, I mentioned a while back, that those opposing budget spending did not offer up cuts. Are they preferring the on camera moment to make their case, and not in private when it counts? Then, at the Council meeting played well used politicians’ game to put it off from consideration until after the See Hello Ward 3, Page 7

prospect of an elementary school on the South Middle site.

She is quoted as saying ” a new road would have to be built there”. So! Compare her concern with the fact that the City has a plan to reconstruct 16 streets around Cross St. to accommodate a new school there! That’s a fact. Ask the City Engineer. She is also quoted as saying the people living around Westfield High, Paper Mill, and Munger Hill were upset with the construction of those schools then. They had a right to be; the City built schools on Article 97 protected open space at both Paper Mill AND at Munger Hill. But this latest time, the School Committee, and the City, were caught. Ms. Sullivan is also quoted as saying the City did study the Franklin Avenue site eight years ago. Really? Our Freedom of Information Act request to the City, for site studies, came back negative. The City informed us that no alternative site studies were made. She also said “when it (Franklin) was looked at…there was a problem about it being in a flood zone.” The City of Westfield’s FEMA flood zone maps show the Franklin site is not in the flood plain/flood zone. A study was done?

In 1950, the City took 24 acres of land by eminent domain off of Western Avenue to build the Highland Elementary School. The documents of taking say the land was for that school, potential School Department offices, and for school expansion. Why did JCJ Architecture’s 2011 school building study claim that there is no room for expansion at Highland Elementary School? That claim has no merit whatsoever.

Why not add to Highland?

Like the politicians do in Boston and Washington, they ask to be re-elected so they can ‘fix the problems’. Right.

Tom Smith

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THE WESTFIELD NEWS

Obituaries

http://thewestfieldnews.com/category/obituaries

Mildred L. Roosevelt SOUTHWICK – Mildred Louise (Potter) Roosevelt –“Millie”, 86 of Southwick went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 26, 2017.

Born in Gill, MA on November 8, 1930 to Elmer and Helen (Laskoski) Potter. Raised in Massachusetts, but lived mostly in Southwick, most recently at Ahrends Circle. She spent 25 years living in various parts of Florida.

She leaves her children, Gary Sandman of Southwick, Susan (Sandman) Faria and her husband, Leonard of Southwick; a brother, Elmer Potter of Caribou, ME., a sister, Shirley Potter of Berlin, MA, and a sister, Helen (Potter) Kezar of Townsend, MA; her grandchildren: Joel Faria of Southwick, Shane Faria and his wife Stacey of Southwick, Chris Faria and his wife Christine of Westfield, and Marisa Chapin and her husband Kyle of Enfield, CT.; her five great grandchildren: Emily Adamites, Mia & Landon Faria, and Bella & Charlie Faria. She also leaves many nieces & nephews. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Harry Roosevelt; her brother, Edward Potter, and her special Maltese companion of 14 years, Brandie.

Millie worked for many years at Hamilton Standard of Windsor Locks, CT. but retired from Visual Graphics Corporation in Florida.

Her hobbies included knitting, crocheting, making craft decorations of all kinds, and baking—all of which she freely shared with everybody she knew. She was an avid supporter of animal shelters, and Veterans organizations.

She attended many churches in her lifetime–Christ Church United Methodist of Southwick, First Church of God in Vero Beach, FL; and the Southwick Congregational Church whose congregation ministered to her as a shut-in when it became difficult to get out and about.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Tuesday, November 7th at 11AM at Westfield Evangelical Free Church, 568 Southwick Rd., Westfield, MA 01085.

Family will receive visitors at 10 AM and immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations can be made to: Southwick Animal Shelter, 11 Depot St. Southwick, MA 01077; or an animal shelter of your choice; or to the Southwick Ambulance Fund, 15 Depot St. Southwick, MA 01077.

Police Logs WESTFIELD Major crime and incident report Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017 11:55 p.m.: Assault, walk-in. Police received a report from a person, a juvenile, who was reportedly at a party and was allegedly kicked in the face by another juvenile.

Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017 12:31 a.m.: Disturbance, Flynn Meadow Road. Police received a report from a homeowner on Flynn Meadow Road who was allegedly assaulted by an unknown assailant who had reportedly attended a party on that road, which is under investigation. Police also issued a citation to a nuisance home in the area, and dispersed what they reported to be over 100 people from the party.

1:26 a.m.: Vandalism, Massey Street. Police received a report of a mailbox that was reportedly damaged, which had possibly stemmed from the dispersion of the party above.

Hello Ward 3

Continued from Page 4

election!? The old school of political hypocrisy is alive and well. Hey it is your tax money and your vote think about the first before you do the second.

Last, on a different note; I want to express my personal deepest sympathies especially to Cindy Harris over the loss of her husband. R and I sat next to each other for a year. She is a very competent, caring for her city, tenacious fighter for her beliefs, and principles, while at the same time a very sincere and caring person. We agreed at times and disagreed at times, without malice.

While I do not the O’Connell family, and had not known Michael very well, we did talk, and I knew him to be a good man.

That is it folks… Ward 3, see you Tues afternoon at the polls, I will be at one of the two for most of the afternoon, say hi…

Your former Ward 3 City Councilor, Brian Hoose, brhoose@comcast.net

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017- PAGE 7

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

35 states and DC back bid to collect online sales taxes SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Thirty-five state attorneys general and the District of Columbia this week signed on to support South Dakota's legal bid to collect sales taxes from out-of-state internet retailers.

South Dakota is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review whether retailers can be required to collect sales taxes in states where they lack a physical presence. The case could have national implications for e-commerce.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said in a statement Thursday that Colorado filed a friend-ofthe-court brief supporting South Dakota's petition to the high court. The state is seeking to overturn legal rulings issued mostly before the online shopping boom that hamstring officials who want to collect sales taxes from out-of-state retailers.

"South Dakota is leading the national fight to bring tax fairness for our local retailers and to help support main street businesses," Jackley said.

The support includes neighboring Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and Wyoming. The other states are: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin.

The brief says the jurisdictions all rely on consumption taxes to fund essential government operations.

States have pushed Congress to address the issue without success, and one estimate put the loss to states at roughly $26 billion in 2015. South Dakota estimates it loses about $50 million annually to e-commerce.

"The problem with the physical-presence rule is that it was first conceived of in 1967, two years before the moon landing and decades before the first retail transaction occurred over the Internet," according to the brief.

Some companies such as Amazon have decided to collect state sales taxes despite the precedent.

South Dakota legislators passed a law last year requiring collection of the tax. The law was struck down in September by the state Supreme Court due to precedent. The state had welcomed the defeat so it could try to get the U.S. Supreme Court to take up the case.

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Fire destroys popular Mass. restaurant SCITUATE, Mass. (AP) — A fire has destroyed a popular restaurant in Massachusetts that just celebrated its 50th anniversary in business.

Officials were called to Jamie's Pub in Scituate around 4:20 a.m. Sunday. Fire Chief John Murphy says it took about an hour and fifteen minutes for crews to control the blaze, and the building suffered a partial collapse.

Murphy says the building is a total loss. No injuries were reported, and no other buildings were affected.

The fire chief says the building will be torn down in 48 hours. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

Jamie's Pub had been run by the same family since it first opened in 1967.

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Anthony Weiner set for prison stint for sexting conviction NEW YORK (AP) — A sexting compulsion that cost Anthony Weiner his seat in Congress and a chance to be New York City's mayor is about to cost him his freedom too.

Weiner, a Democrat, is scheduled to surrender by 2 p.m. Monday at Devens Federal Medical Center in Massachusetts to serve a 21-month sentence for illicit online contact with a 15-yearold girl.

The facility in Ayer, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) west of Boston, has over 1,000 inmates at the medical center and over 100 more at an adjacent minimum security satellite camp.

Weiner was sentenced in September by a judge who said Weiner's crime resulted from a "very strong compulsion." A tearful Weiner said he was undergoing therapy and had been "a very sick man for a very long time."

Amid a sexting controversy involving women, Weiner resigned his House seat in 2011 only to have new allegations doom his 2013 run for mayor.

Last year, a criminal probe into his sexting with a high school student intruded into Democrat Hillary Clinton's bid for the White House. Then-FBI Director James Comey announced in late October 2016 that he was reopening the probe of Clinton's use of a private computer server after emails between Clinton and Weiner's wife, Huma Abedin — formerly Clinton's closest aide — were found on Weiner's laptop computer.

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PAGE 8 - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

Steve Dondley

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

To the Editor

Continued from Page 4 people and working in secret against the best interests of its ceiling will be well above $80 million in 2020. And so there’s citizens and the city. actually a very good chance we will actually be further away I consider their style of politics to be harmful to a construc- from the levy ceiling in a few years, not closer to it. There is tive, solution-oriented approach to governance. Moreover, it absolutely no need to panic. grossly misleads the public as to our true state of affairs. I It’s also important to note that we have been close of the absolutely reject this kind of political demagoguery. Instead, I levy ceiling in the past. But the problem was solved with no firmly believe that the best way to solve our common prob- intervention on our part simply because property values lems is to unite and work together to tackle them. In order to started to climb again as they inevitably do and have done do that, we must continue to focus on all the opportunities since Westfield was incorporated in 1669. before us, invent new ones, and seize them to the best of our And it also makes absolutely no sense to argue we must ability just as we have done over the last couple of decades to make service cuts now in order to avoid service cuts in the make all the progress we have made. And so I stand squarely future. That would be like saying the best way to prevent ganwith the believers who are doing their best to build Westfield grene in a healthy foot is to chop it off so you’ll never have to up, not tear it down. They know the proper way forward. worry about getting gangrene.

Part II: Response to Matt Emmershy’s Letter to the Editor TAXES Throughout my first term in office and during this camPromises of tax reductions and/or reduced tax increases paign, I have avoided public conflicts with others and I have have been the go-to argument for Emmershy and candidates always sought to engage in respectful and honest debate. like him. To be sure, it’s a smart political move as it’s an easy There comes a point, though, when the disinformation way to win a lot of votes from many residents who are feeling becomes so egregious that something simply has to be said economically pinched. before very wrong and misguided ideas take firm root. After Inevitably, however, their arguments are full of huge holes reading Matt Emmershy’s letter to the editor, which appeared and never paint a complete picture about the reality of the in Saturday’s Westfield News, this is one of those times that I situation: you can’t save residents massive amounts of money feel compelled to respond. on their tax bill without massive cuts and degradation of qualI want to be clear that I am not attacking Mr. Emmershy’s ity in the services residents rely on. They also never mention character. I respect Mr. Emmershy for taking the time and the simple fact that the cost of everything goes up, year after energy to run for city council. But that’s simply not enough to year, as a result of inflation and other market forces comqualify him for the job. In my comments that follow, I will pletely beyond the city’s control. focus strictly on his lack of track record and his many erroneI’m all for giving a tax break if I think we can afford it and ous and, frankly, irresponsible statements. I also am not accus- I voted for the 0% tax increase last year. I will likely support ing Mr. Emmershy of being purposefully deceitful. I’m sure the mayor’s FY 18 proposed budget reductions this year, too.

Mr. Emmershy believes, and is passionate about, everything But I also have a responsibility to ensure the city funds its he says. But as we all know, belief and passion in an idea is many vital services. It’s a responsibility I take very seriously. often a far cry from what is true and real.

Unfortunately, not all candidates do. For example, there was First, as to Mr. Emmershy’s track record, there’s not much this wild claim from Emmershy’s letter to the editor: “Westfield to say because there is none. Mr. Emmershy has not served on continues to spend far more than it takes in. On average we a commission or board in Westfield, nor has any involvement have been spending $3-4 million more every year than we take in any organization in Westfield outside of his own narrow in.” political and financial interests. Instead, Mr. Emmershy’s This statement makes absolutely no sense and is not one any campaign fortunes rely entirely on the heavy promotion and serious candidate would ever make. By state law, municipaliassistance received from another candidate with considerable ties cannot spend more than they budget each year. The city name recognition as a result of his running five times for also cannot print its own money so I’m not sure where Mr. elected office within a span of just four years.

Emmershy thinks we are getting this money from. Perhaps Mr. I would like to suggest that Mr. Emmershy should consider Emmershy meant something else here, but I can’t begin to taking on a smaller role in our community and accumulate at imagine what. least a few minor accomplishments to demonstrate his desire CLOSING STATEMENT and ability to help our community succeed before seeking Though many candidates try to pretend otherwise, the chalelection to the city council. lenges before Westfield are nuanced and complicated. There Regarding Mr. Emmershy’s recent letter to the editor, there are no easy answers and there are no magic bullets. Finding is a lot of ground to cover, but I’ll do my best to be succinct. solutions to these complex problems takes a lot of effort, AQUIFER CONTAMINATION thoughtfulness, and above all, the ability to cooperate and Mr. Emmershy attempts to paint a picture of the city being bring people together to work on them. It’s easy to pretend slow to respond and not doing enough to protect residents you’ve got all the answers and you’ll always find people to from the contamination of wells #7 and #8. He makes many fool into thinking that you do, but it’s quite another skill to be misleading statements and factual errors to make the situation able to work toward and implement real-world solutions. out to be much worse than it is.

At the end of the day, helping run a government is a serious Emmershy claim: “The bond for water filtration project was responsibility because it affects the lives of real people. We only authorized only about a month ago” need elected officials who are willing to do their homework, The fact is, Mayor Sullivan came to the city council in state the facts as accurately as they can, and then be able to November of last year with the proposal for the bond for a look voters in the eye and tell them the truth, and not just what filtration system. The bond was passed by the city council in they want to hear in order to win on election day. its second reading on January 19, 2017, which was almost ten And so if you are looking for a candidate who takes the months ago. responsibility of governing seriously, I hope you will vote to Emmershy claim: “The EPA lowered the allowable levels.” re-elect me, Steve Dondley, on November 7th.

Actually, the EPA has no legal “allowable levels” for PFOA and PFOS. What the EPA issued was a lower “lifetime health advisory” for these chemicals on May 19, 2016.

These advisories are not enforceable by federal law. They are merely the EPA’s recommendations based on the best Continued from Page 4 available scientific evidence and are based on extremely condirectly impacted by the new school and they encourage me to servative estimates and worst case scenarios of water conkeep fighting for the school location on Ashley/Cross St. sumption over the course of a lifetime.

The budget is always a hot topic. There is no question that the The city responded very quickly to the lower advisory contaminant concentrations. Within two weeks of the EPA’s school budget is a huge portion of the city budget.Highly qualified change, the city took out a large ¾ page ad and released infor- teachers is a key to a well rounded education and I support mation to news organization to explain what it was doing to Professional Development and more collaboration between teachprevent the contamination from entering the public water sup- ers. You hear a lot about union raises, a City Councilor has even gone so far to recently say that we don’t need lifetime employees…. ply.

Emmershy claim: “We simply continue to put our water in What does that even mean? Teachers shouldn’t settle into a community and expect to teach there until they retire? How many of you jeopardy while we wait for resolution.”

Emmershy’s scare tactic is simply not true. All wells cur- worked at the same job for 25 or 30 years? I’m guessing there are rently supplying the city are well below the health advisory thousands of you living right here in this city. Collective bargainlimits. We continue to monitor all public wells for contamina- ing, which the SC fully participates in, is not easy and neither side leaves the table happy. A few benefits teachers have negotiated tion. Private well owners, which are not overseen by the city, include the elimination of Severance payouts upon retirement, are getting their water tested for free and those found exceed- which has saved Westfield millions of dollars. Furlough days have ing advisory limits will receive a filtration system from the been taken off the books saving tens of thousands of dollars. state at no cost to homeowners.

Teachers also agreed at the bargaining table to accept higher health According to the best scientific evidence available, there is insurance premiums, thus saving the taxpayer millions. Teachers are no great risk to the public. However, no risk is better than even being tasked everyday to do more with less. Even with raises, a tiny risk and so the city is taking all necessary precautions Westfield teachers are among the lowest paid in our surrounding with as much speed as possible to ensure the integrity of our communities and the state. Both parties do what they can to avoid public water supply. mediation, arbitration, or work to rule. City Counselors have been We also need to take the time to ensure the filtration system asked to join us at the table during negotiations and they have we install works and works well. This project is a complex declined. It is easier to criticize an outcome if you have not engaged one. Qualified professionals have carefully studied other fil- in the entire process. The SC cuts the budget every year before it is tration systems for these kinds of contaminants to ensure that presented to the City Council. In recent years cuts of $526,000 and what we install will work effectively. The job is expected to $2million have been made before presenting the budget to the City be finished in the spring. In the meantime, I want to empha- Council. The Superintendent was asked to make cuts furthest away size there is no danger to the community while we wait for it from students. Cuts included 4 administrative positions, a custodian, and a secretarial position along with many other positions not to be installed.

It’s grossly irresponsible for Mr. Emmershy to claim the being filled. We go line by line by line through the budget. We ask city did not respond quickly and appropriately to the contami- questions to make sure every position is justified. When responsination and for him to suggest that we are putting our water “in bilities are added to someone’s job we change job title not add a new position. jeopardy.” This is simply not the case.

Finally, I haven’t met anyone who likes MCAS testing. A district LEVY CEILING By law, the city of Westfield cannot raise more tax revenue is not defined by the number they are given by the state based on a than 2.5% of the total assessed value of all the properties in test that every student has to take no matter their disability or perWestfield. This value is called the “levy ceiling.” Mr. sonal circumstance. I don’t think this is fair or just but The State of Emmershy raises the specter of Westfield hitting the levy ceil- Massachusetts requires this test so we need to pay attention to it. I ing and attempts to argue that we must implement service cuts assure you wonderful things are happening in our schools every day. There are so many programs that I would love to highlight here, it in order to avoid it.

Emmershy claim: “We will be hitting the levy ceiling in a we are not perfect but the district has made great strides and will continue on this path.. I’m hoping that you consider voting for me few years.” so I can continue to advocate for students while being mindful of This is completely false. During the Great Recession, the our communities needs including those of our Senior Citizens. . I total assessed value of all the city’s properties fell. As a result, believe in transparency and have sat in meetings listening and learnout levy ceiling fell, too. In 2011, our levy ceiling hit it’s peak ing from our parents about the needs of their children. What you see of $79.3. In 2014, the levy ceiling bottomed out at $76.2 mil- is what you get with me. I don’t pretend to be someone I’m not. I lion. For the following two years, property values started ris- would appreciate your vote on November 7th. ing again but not very fast and in 2016, the levy ceiling was Best Regards, just $76.2 million. And so the reason we drew closer to the Cindy Sullivan levy ceiling was not as a result of our “tax and spend” ways as Mr. Emmershy claims, but because property values fell because of the recession.

But with the recovering economy, property values have started rising much more sharply and today the levy ceiling is now at $77.7 million. Next year, the levy ceiling will probably be over $79 million based on gains in the residential property values (about 2%) which lags the market by two years and so will actually be based on 2016 numbers. Since the assessed property values lags by two years, the total property valuations will continue to increase for at least another two years as we enjoyed a much more robust economy recently. And all signs are that housing prices are sharply increasing right now.

While no one knows for sure, it’s a pretty safe bet our levy

After reading Ms. Martin’s extensive collection of misused information I believe a rebuttal is in order. The only salient comment I find in her letter is “Again what really counts is how much you pay not what the rate is.”

The listing of comparatives to other municipalities in her letter does a dis-service to the people and taxpayers of Westfield. No information as to how well managed, what the cost benefit or efficiency of use of the taxes paid in the other municipalities is provided. If they’re all as inefficient as Westfield seems to be, then shame on their taxpayers for allowing it. The comment on the bond rating just boggles one’s mind. That comment regarding borrowing funds just promotes the current buy now, spend spend, and pay later attitude that City Hall has embraced for the last several years.

Just because the taxpayers have rolled over for increases to pay for lavish accoutrements like a Clock Tower that usually doesn’t work, or penal monoliths in a “Gas Light District” with more electric lights than Bradley Field has on a runway, seems to be an accepted way of doing business. Spending three plus millions of dollars for a bike path to nowhere with money that should have been allocated to road and street improvement reeks of the misguided and mismanaged state of priorities in this city. This does not even hint at the pension and health liabilities the non-council review of contracts has saddled the city with; this as M. Flaherty continually reminds us. A day of reckoning is coming.

I am tired of hearing that a line by line review of the budget has been done and, “ Oh by the way your taxes are going up AGAIN. It is time that instead of fattening, at much expense, the management rolls of the city with new positions of questionable worth, in the likes of a CFO, all departments should be given an annual task of justifying the the effectiveness and efficiency of their employed resources. They should not be allowed to just ask for more taxpayers funds on an annual basis for a “business as usual” business plan. They should be providing a business plan that utilizes what they currently have, and what can be shared with other departments. They should not be allowed to seek additional headcount if reallocation and reuse of existing resources, re-education or technology implementation can solve the apparent issue. It would be nice to sit in a City council meeting where some of the members are less interested in doing the New York Times Crossword Puzzle than getting a taxpayer dollar value for a dollar spent; as well as, holding the efficient administration of the city to task.

The election on Tuesday November 7th is a chance for Taxpayers of this city to refute the entrenched interests and “business as usual” attitude of the majority of the members of the current City Council. It is time to support and elect the members and new candidates to the city council who have the review and efficient usage of existing resources; as well as, the impact of proposed and planned expenditure actions on taxpayers, as their main priorities.

Sincerely, Dick Holcomb Westfield Taxpayer

Cindy Sullivan

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••••••• THuRSDAyS •••••• The Westfield News Radio Show, with host Patrick Berry In The Flow with Rob & Joe: Westfield Tech. Academy’s Rob Ollari & Joe Langone Superintendents’ Spotlight with Stefan Czaporowski ••••••••• FRIDAyS •••••••• JP’s Talk about Town, with Jay Pagluica Owls Sports Weekly with Devin Bates ‘18 and Anthony Swenson ‘18 Conversations with Pete Cowles ••••••• SATuRDAyS ••••••• Polka Jammer Network, with Billy Belina

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SPORTS

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017 - PAGE 9

TACONIC VS. SOUTHWICK GIRLS’ SOCCER DIVISION 3 WEST PLAYOFFS - ROUND 1

After a great rush Kayla Russ fires a pass to...

...Emily Giancola who chips in Southwick’s fifth goal of the game.

Waitt over, Autumn arrives

By CHRIS PUTZ Staff Writer SOUTHWICK – The stars shined brightly over Whalley Park Saturday night – and for good reason.

No. 5 Southwick-Tolland Regional made a sterling debut in a 2017 West Division 3 high school girls soccer tournament opener, shutting out visiting Taconic 5-0 Saturday night at Whalley Park.

Autumn Waitt scored a hat trick. Emily Giancola and Kayla Russ each had one goal. Liz Tenerowicz made two assists, and Brooke Waitt, Giancola, and Russ had one apiece.

Southwick goalie Hannah Gerrish (3 saves) recorded a shutout. Taconic keeper Jackie Boateng finished with 13 saves.

With the victory, Southwick (9-4-5) advances to take on No. 4 Mahar (13-2-4), a 3-1 winner over 13th seeded Pioneer Valley Regional (9-6-2).

Southwick’s Autumn Waitt pushes a shot past the Taconic goalie for her third goal of the game during a West Division 3 girls soccer tournament opener Saturday night at Whalley Park. The Rams advanced to the quarterfinals with a 5-0 shutout.

WEST D4 FIRST ROUND

Tigers eliminated No. 8 Lee 4, No. 9 Westfield Technical Academy 1 Shannon Finnegan had a hat trick and No. 8 Lee (10-8) held serve over ninth-seeded Westfield Tech (9-6-3) Saturday afternoon.

Liliya Stepanchuk scored the lone Westfield Tech goal off a pass from Heather Lannon.

“I don’t feel like we got beat by a better team,” Westfield Tech coach Lyle Washington said. “We just had a really tough first half.”

Westfield Tech fell behind 3-0 and could not recover.

“Losing the game was unfortunate but I was glad we made it to the playoffs,” Washington explained. “We’re just going to look at this as a stepping stone moving forward with our soccer program.”

It was an emotional ending for eight seniors – Heather Lannon, Emily White, Sydnie Brock, Lilya Stepanchuk, Nina Kirpicheva, Bri Hoffman, Gwen Mineau, and Liza Lapko – who Washington said “will all be greatly missed on and off the field.”

(Photo by Bill Deren)

Goalie Hannah Gerrish and the Southwick defense combined for the shutout.

See H.S. Roundup, Page 11

After a great pass from Emily Giancola, Kayla Russ bangs home the ball for the third Southwick goal.

Autumn Waitt chips the ball over the Taconic goalie for Southwick’s 1st goal

Elizabeth Tenerowicz fires the ball on goal

A big crowd showed up on a brisk autumn night to watch the Division 3 West first round matchup between Taconic and Southwick.

Find the latest Westfield News sports coverage on

PHOTOS BY BILL DEREN

PAGE 10 - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

HIGH SCHOOL 2017 FALL SPORTS SCHEDULES

BEAT ‘THE PUTZ’

NFL FOOTBALL FOOTBALL CHALLENGE NFL CHALLENGE

SOUTHWICK-TOLLAND REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

WESTFIELD HIGH SCHOOL Mon., Nov. 6 GIRLS VOLLEYBALL WEST D2 QUARTERFINAL No. 9 Westfield (7-12) at No. 1 Longmeadow (14-4), 6:30 p.m.

PickSunday Sunday NFL NFL Games, Beat Our Sports Guy Pick Guy && Win! Win! Entryforms formswill will appear appear in in ••Entry Mondaythru thru Friday’s Friday’s printed printed Monday editionsof ofThe TheWestfield Westfield News. editions Originalentry entry forms forms must must be ••Original used.No Noduplications duplications or or copies copies used. willbe beaccepted. accepted. will CompletedEntry Entry Forms Forms must must ••Completed bepostmarked postmarked by by midnight midnight be onFriday Fridayof of that that week’s week’s contest. contest. on

Mon., Nov. 6 BOYS SOCCER WEST D3 QUARTERFINALS No. 2 Southwick (12-3-1) vs. No. 7 Easthampton (11-4-4), 2 p.m.

GATEWAY REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Tues., Nov. 7 GIRLS SOCCER WEST D1 QUARTERFINAL No. 4 Westfield (13-5) vs. No. 5 Chicopee Comp (10-6-2), Bullens Field, 6 p.m.

Tues., Nov. 7 GIRLS SOCCER WEST D4 QUARTERFINALS No. 2 Gateway (11-2-3) vs. No. 7 Hopkins Academy (10-7-2), 6 p.m.

Wed., Nov. 8 No Sports Scheduled

SAINT MARY HIGH SCHOOL

Thurs., Nov. 9 No Sports Scheduled

Season Completed

THISWEEK’S WEEk’S ENTRy FORMSPONSORED SPONSORED By: THIS CONTEST BY:

TAVERN RR••EE••SS••TT••AA••UU••RR••AA••N ••T OpenFor ForLunch Lunch&&Dinner Dinner Open Days••77Nights Nights 77Days

Mon. Nov. 6 BOYS SOCCER WEST D4 QUARTERFINALS No. 5 Westfield Technical Academy (15-21) at No. 4 Drury (11-7), 2:30 p.m.

Sat., Nov. 11 GYMNASTICS – WMASS Championship, Westfield High School, 4 p.m.

CROSS COUNTRY – WMASS Championship, Northfield Mountain, ALL DAY

Have You

BEAT ‘THE PUTZ’ Lately?

Thurs., Nov. 23 FOOTBALL at Minnechaug, 10 a.m.

Pick Sunday NFL games, beat our Sports Guy and WIN! Check Sports in The Westfield News starting September 2nd!

See All Our Photos at ...

2017-2018 Westfield State University Men’s Basketball Schedule

Thur Nov. 30 ELMS 7:00 Sat Dec. 2 SPRINGFIELD 1:00 Tue Dec. 5 WILLIAMS 7:30 Sat Dec. 9 at Western New England 1:00 Sun Dec. 10 PINE MANOR 1:00 Sat Dec. 30 at Trinity Tournament

vs. Regis 7:00 Sun Dec. 31 at Trinity Tournament

Consolation/ Championship 12:00/2:00 Jan. 6

at MCLA 3:00

Sat

Jan. 13 BRIDGEWATER STATE 3:00

Wed Jan. 17 FRAMINGHAM STATE 7:30 Sat Jan. 20 at Salem State 3:00 Tues Jan. 23 at Fitchburg State 7:30 Thur Jan. 25 WORCESTER STATE 7:30 Sat Jan. 27 MCLA 3:00

Feb. 14 FITCHBURG STATE Feb. 17 at Worcester State

Live Entertainment Entertainment Thursday Thursday thru Sunday Sunday thru

&& Sundays Sundays PRImE Thursdays PRIME Thursdays Thursdays 99 Lunch Lunch

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NFLSCHEDULE ScheduLe--WEEK Week10 9 NFL Sunday, November Sunday, Nov. 12 6 New Orleans at Detroit at Green Bay at Philadelphia at Cleveland NY Jets at at Cincinnati at Jacksonville at Pittsburgh at Dallas at NY Jets at Pittsburgh at Minnesota at New Orleans at LA Chargers at Carolina Houstonatat Indianapolis at Dallas at Tennessee at NY Giants TIeBReAkeR: TIEBREAKER: Denver at at o New England o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o

2017-2018 Westfield State Ice Hockey Schedule

Thur Dec. 7 at Assumption

6:35

Thur Jan. 4 at Becker Sat Jan. 6 at Salem State

7:00 2:00

Fri Jan. 12

Sat Jan. 13

3:00

7:40 7:30 5:35 7:35 7:35

13 149595Dinner Dinner Sundays 149595All AllDay Day Sundays $$13

GRAND PRIZE: 40” TV

East Main St, Westfield Play Beat The Putz for your chance to Win Big!

NAME: _______________________ _______________________

Buffalo Minnesota Chicago NY Giants Detroit Miami Tennessee Kansas City Indianapolis Cleveland Tampa Bay Baltimore Washington San Francisco Jacksonville Los Angeles LA Rams Green Bay Atlanta San Diego San Francisco

ADDRESS: ADDRESS: _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ PHONE:________________ PHONE:________________ CHECK CHECK YOUR YOUR PICKS PICKS && MAIL MAILOR OR DROP OFF OFF YOUR YOUR ENTRY ENTRYTO: TO: Beat the the Putz Putz c/o The The Westfield Westfield News News 62 School School Street Street Westfield, Westfield, MA MA 01085 01085

________________ o Denver TOTAL POINTS: TOTAL POINTS: o Raiders

Tues Fri

Sat

Nov. 28 PLYMOUTH STATE 7:00 Dec. 1 at Wesleyan Tournament vs University of Valley Forge 8:00 Dec. 2 at Wesleyan Tournament Consolation/ Championship Game 1:00/ 3:00

5:35

7:30 4:30

Thur Feb. 15 WORCESTER STATE 7:35 Sat Feb. 17 FITCHBURG STATE 5:35

7:30 3:00

Tues Feb. 20 at Plymouth State 6:00 Sat Feb. 24 MASCAC Quarterfinals TBD Tues Feb. 27 MASCAC Semifinals TBD Sat March 3 MASCAC Championship TBD

7:00

Sat Dec. 30 Westfield Holiday Tournament

vs Ramapo 1:00

WPI vs SUNY Pew Paltz 3:00 Sun Dec. 31 Westfield Holiday Tournament Consolation Game 1:00

Championship Game 3:00 Thur Jan. 4 Sat Jan. 6 Sat

Tues Jan. 30 FRAMINGHAM STATE 7:35 Thur Feb. 1 SALEM STATE 7:35 Thur Feb. 8 at Framingham State Sat Feb. 10 at UMass Dartmouth

DAY DATE OPPONENT TIME Wed Nov. 15 KEENE STATE 6:00 Sat Nov. 18 at Eastern Conn. Tournament

vs SUNY New-Paltz 7:30 Sun Nov. 19 at Eastern Conn. Tournament

Consolation/ Championship Game 1:00/ 3:00

Tues Nov. 21 REGIS 7:00

Wed Dec. 13 at Smith 7:00 Fri Dec. 15 at Springfield

at Martha’s Vineyard Tournament vs Curry 3:00 at Martha’s Vineyard Tournament vs Salve Regina 1:00

Thur Jan. 25 at Fitchburg State 7:00 Sat Jan. 27 PLYMOUTH STATE

2017-2018 Westfield State University Women’s Basketball Schedule

Tues Dec. 5 UMASS DARTMOUTH 5:30

8:00

Tues Feb. 20 MASCAC Quarterfinals TBA Thur Feb. 22 MASCAC Semifinals TBA Sat Feb. 24 MASCAC Championship TBA

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NFL FOOTBALL CHALLENGE

Thur Jan. 18 UMASS DARTMOUTH 7:35 Sat Jan. 20 at Worcester State 3:30

Sat

Wed Sat

6 Big Screen TVs - NFL Sports Package Package

BEAT ‘THE PUTZ’

DAY DATE OPPONENT TIME Wed Nov. 15 at Lesley 8:00 DAY DATE OPPONENT TIME Fri Nov. 17 Rick Martin/ Holiday Inn Express Tournament vs. Lehman 5:30 Thur Nov. 9 at Post 7:30 Bowdoin vs. St. Lawrence 7:30 Sat Nov. 11 at Framingham State Sat Nov. 18 Rick Martin/ Holiday Inn Express Tournament

Consolation Game 1:00 Thur Nov. 16 at UMass Dartmouth

Championship Game 3:00 Sat Nov. 18 WORCESTER STATE

Mon Nov. 20 AMHERST 7:00 Tues Nov. 21 FRANKLIN PIERCE Sat Nov. 25 at Union Tournament

vs. FDU Florham 2:00 Thur Nov. 30 FITCHBURG STATE Sun Nov. 26 at Union Tournament Sat Dec. 2 at Plymouth State 6:00

Consolation/ Championship 2:00/4:00

Wed Feb. 7 at Framingham State Sat Feb. 10 SALEM STATE 3:00

Broad STREET, StrEEt, WEStfiEld 2 BROAD WESTFIELD • • 562-0335 562-0335

Thiscontest contestis isopen opentotoany/all any/allreaders readerseighteen eighteen(18) (18)years yearsofofage ageororolder, older,unless unless otherwise otherwise specified specified by by the the Westfield Westfield News This News Group, Group, LLC LLC Contest Contest isis open opentotoU.S. U.S.residents residentsonly. only.The TheWestfield WestfieldNews Newsemployees employeesand and theirrelatives relativesare arenot noteligible eligibleforforthe thecontest. contest.Odds Oddsofofwinning winningaaprize prizewill willdepend depend on on the the number number of of qualified qualified entries. entries. All their All contest contest entries entries become become the thesole soleproperty propertyofofWestfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLCOnly Onlyone onewinner winneroror qualifierper perfamily familyororhousehold householdwill willbebeallowed. allowed.The Thedecision decisionofofWestfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group, LLC LLC ,, isis final. final. Alll Alll contestants contestants acknowledge acknowledge as qualifier as aa condition condition of of entry, entry,that thatWestfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLChas hasa aright righttotopublicize publicizeoror broadcast the winner’s name, character, likeness, voice, or all matters incidental herein.

All prizes are non-transferable and void where prohibited by law.

No cash substitution of prizes allowed.

Winners understand broadcast the winner’s name, character, likeness, voice, or all matters incidental herein. All prizes are non-transferable and void where prohibited by law. No cash substitution of prizes allowed. Winners understand and agreethat thatthey theyare areresponsible responsibleforforany anyand andallalltaxes taxesincurred incurredon onprizes prizesreceived received within within the the year year of of winning. winning. IfIf required required by and agree

by Westfield Westfield News NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLC, ,ororits itsaffiliates, affiliates,winners winnersmust mustsign signa aliability liabilityrelease releaseprior priortoto receivingtheir theirprize. prize.Prizes Prizeswill willbebemailed mailedeither eitherfirst, first,second, second,ororthird thirdclass classU.S. U.S.Mail Mail at at the the discretion discretion of of Westfield Westfield News receiving News Group, Group, LLC. LLC. IfIf the the prize prizeisistotobe bemailed, mailed,ititisisthe theresponsibly responsiblyofofthe thewinners winnerstotoprovide provideWestfield Westfield NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLCwith witha acurrent currentand andcorrect correctmailing mailingaddress. address.Westfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group, LLC LLC isis not not responsible responsible for, for, nor News nor obligated obligated to to replace, replace,any anylost, lost,stolen, stolen,orordamaged damagedprize prizesent sentthrough throughthe theU.S. U.S.Mail.

Mail.If Ifthe thewinner winner instructedbybyWestfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLCororitsitsaffiliates affiliatestotopersonally personallypick pickup up their their prize, prize, itit must must be be claimed claimed within within thirty is is instructed thirty (30) (30) calendar calendar days days of of winning. winning.Upon Uponpick-up pick-upofofprize, prize,proper properpicture pictureidentification identification(i.e. (i.e.valid valid driver’slicense, license,passport) passport)from fromthe thewinner winnermay maybe berequired. required.Westfield WestfieldNews News Group, Group, LLC LLC will will not not notify notify winners winners of driver’s of the the time time remaining remainingon ontheir theirprize. prize.ItItisisthe theresponsibility responsibilityofofthe thewinner winnertotoclaim claimthe theprize prizewithin withinthethethirtythirty(30) daytimeframe. timeframe.AllAllunclaimed unclaimedprizes prizesafter afterthirty thirty(30) (30)days dayswill willautomatically automaticallybe beforfeited. forfeited. Westfield Westfield News News Group, Group, LLC (30) day LLC is is at at liberty liberty to to give give away awayany anyunclaimed unclaimedprize prizeatatthe theend endofofthe thethirtythirty-(30) (30)day daygrace graceperiod. period.InIn the event that a winner voluntarily chooses to not accept a prize, he/she automatically forfeits all claims to that prize.

Westfield News Group, LLC then has the right, but not the obligation, to award that prize to a contest the event that a winner voluntarily chooses to not accept a prize, he/she automatically forfeits all claims to that prize. Westfield News Group, LLC then has the right, but not the obligation, to award that prize to a contest runner-up.Westfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLC may maysubstitute substituteanother anotherprize prizeofofequal equal value, value, in in the the event event of of non-availability non-availability of runner-up. of aa prize. prize. Employees Employees of of Westfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLC and andtheir theirfamilies familiesororhouseholds householdsare areineligible ineligible enter/winany anycontest. contest.AllAllcontestants contestantsshall shallrelease releaseWestfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC, LLC, its its agencies, agencies, affiliates, affiliates, sponsors sponsors or or representatives to toenter/win representatives from from any any and and all all liability liabilityand andinjury, injury,financial, financial,personal, personal,ororotherwise, otherwise,resulting resulting fromany anycontests contestspresented presentedbybyWestfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLCAdditions Additionsorordeletions deletions to to these these rules rules may may be be made made at at the from the discretion discretion of of Westfield Westfield News NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLC and andmay maybe beenacted enactedatatany anytime. time.Contestants Contestantsenter enterbyby fillingoutoutthethe“Beat “Beatthe thePutz” Putz”pick picksheets, sheets,included includedininMonday Mondaythrough throughFriday’s Friday’s editions editions of of The The Westfield Westfield News. filling News. Copies Copies of of entry entry forms forms will will not not be beaccepted. accepted.Contestants Contestantschoose chooseone oneteam teamtotowin wineach eachgame gamefrom fromthethe NFLgames gamesforforthat thatparticular particularweek. week.The Thewinning winningentry entrywill willbe bethe theone onewith withthe themost mostwins winson onSunday.

Sunday. In In the the event event of of aa tie tie among listlist of of NFL among more more than than one one entry, entry,the theSunday Sundaynight nightgame gamescore scorewill willbe beused usedasasa atie-breaker. tie-breaker.

Contestantsare aretotochoose choosethe thetotal totalnumber numberofofpoints pointsscored scoredininthe theSunday Sundaynight nightgame. game.To To be be given given credit credit for for the the tiebreaker, tiebreaker, the Contestants the contestant contestantmust mustcome comeclosest closesttotothe thetotal totalpoints pointsscored scoredininthe thegame. game.Westfield WestfieldNews News Group,LLC LLCwill willaward awarda amaximum maximumofofone one(1) (1)prize prizeper perweek. week.The Theexact exactnumber numberofof prizes prizes awarded awarded each each month month will will be Group, be decided decided by

by Westfield Westfield News NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLC ininitsitssole solediscretion. discretion.The Theprizes prizestotobebeawarded awardedeach each week determinedbybyWestfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLCInInthe theevent eventthat thatthere thereare aremore more eligible eligible winners winners than than the the number week willwillbebedetermined number of of prizes prizes awarded awardedfor foraaparticular particularweek, week,Westfield WestfieldNews NewsGroup, Group,LLC LLCwill willrandomly randomlyselect selectone one winnerforforthat thatparticular particularweek. week.Winner Winnerisisdetermined determinedby bymost mostcorrect correctgames gameswon. won. The The tiebreaker tiebreaker is is used used when when more more than winner than one one entry entry have have the the same samenumber numberofofwins. wins.AtAtthat thatpoint, point,the thetotal totalnumber numberofofpoints pointsgiven givenbyby contestantwill willdetermine determinewinner. winner.InInthe theevent eventofofaagame gamenot notbeing beingcompleted, completed, that that game game will will not not be be considered considered in thethe contestant in the the final final tabulation tabulation for for that that week’s week’sgames. games.The Thegrand grandprize prizewinner winnerwill willbebeselected selectedbybya arandom random drawing of all entries better than “The Putz” from throughout the entire 17-week regular season.

This contest is merely for entertainment purposes.

It is not meant to promote or to facilitate gambling or illegal activity. drawing of all entries better than “The Putz” from throughout the entire 17-week regular season. This contest is merely for entertainment purposes. It is not meant to promote or to facilitate gambling or illegal activity.

thewestfieldnews.smugmug.com

Feb. 3 at Bridgewater State

• The Putz’s Picks Picks will will appear appear in the Saturday Saturday edition edition of of The Westfield Westfield News.

News.

• Beat ‘The Putz’ Putz’AND AND finish finishwith with the best record record overall overallto toclaim claim that week’s week’s gift gift certificate. certificate.

• Each weekly weekly winner winner will willbe be eligible for for the the GRAND PRIZE eligible drawing!! drawing!!

WESTFIELD TECHNICAL ACADEMY

Fri., Nov. 10 No Sports Scheduled

Sat

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

at Albertus Magnus at MCLA 1:00

Jan. 13 BRIDGEWATER STATE 1:00

Wed Jan. 17 FRAMINGHAM STATE 5:30 Sat Jan. 20 at Salem State 1:00 Tues Jan. 23 at Fitchburg State 5:30 Thur Jan. 25 WORCESTER STATE 5:30 Sat Jan. 27 MCLA 1:00 Sat

Feb. 3 at Bridgewater State

Wed Feb. 7 at Framingham State Sat Feb. 10 SALEM STATE 1:00 Wed Sat

Feb. 14 FITCHBURG STATE Feb. 17 at Worcester State 1:00

1:00 6:00 5:30

Tues Feb. 20 MASCAC Quarterfinals TBA Thur Feb. 22 MASCAC Semifinals TBA Sat Feb. 24 MASCAC Championship TBA

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017 - PAGE 11

H.S. Roundup

Continued from Page 9

PVIAC CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Drohen lands top 10 finish

Boys varsity runners start their run past Stanley Park’s stunning Fall foliage.

Southwick High junior Rebecca Drohen posted one of the best times at the Pioneer Valley Ineterscholastic Athletic Conference cross country championships besting all but nine other girls at Stanley Park on Saturday. Drohen clocked in with a 10th place time of 20:02.18. Westfield’s Sophia Gronbeck (12th, 20:04.71) and Southwick’s Gabriela Peterson (20th, 20:31.41) managed to crack the top 20. … Gateway’s Brandon Daniels finished 40th in 17:35.42.

A runner approaches the end of the race under a glowing Fall sky.

Starting line for the PVIAC girls varsity cross country race.

Devlin Welch motivates the WHS JV cross country team at the PVIAC 2017 Championship races at Westfield’s Stanley Park.

The Gateway Regional High School girls varsity cross country team.

The Southwick-Tolland Regional High School girls varsity cross country team.

The Westfield High School boys varsity cross country team.

The Westfield High School girls varsity cross country team.

The Southwick-Tolland Regional High School boys varsity cross country team.

Girls varsity runners from Southwick and Westfield start their run at Stanley Park Saturday.

The Gateway Regional High School boys varsity cross country team.

Find the latest Westfield News sports coverage on

PHOTOS BY MARC ST.ONGE

PAGE 12 - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017

Dear Annie

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

TV Sports Tonight Monday, Nov. 6 HORSE RACING 9:30 p.m.

FS1 — Melbourne Cup, at Melbourne, Australia

NFL FOOTBALL 8:15 p.m.

ESPN & ESPN2 — Detroit at Green Bay (Spanish-language simulcast on ESPN2)

By ANNIE LANE

On The Tube

For God and Country — or Something Dear Annie: I have witnessed a change in a local American Legion post over the past several years. I support and commend anyone who has served our country. Originally, these posts were established by veterans and run by elected veteran officers and veteran executive board members. These posts were founded with bylaws and rules supporting the motto, “For God and Country.”

At my local post, the commander would make a better follower than he does a leader. He backstabs his officers to try to make himself look good. Officers are drunk at some meetings, which is very inappropriate, yet this is allowed by the commander, who should be observing and enforcing a code of conduct for the meetings. Minutes that prove that items were voted on are suddenly lost or misplaced. Married officers are having sexual affairs with the hired staff. There is stealing of items that belong to the post. Bartenders drink while on bar duty. Pay increases to certain staff members are given without the board’s approval. Nonmembers come in and do what they want.

When one member makes comments to re-establish what the post stands for and who should be making decisions on everything that is going on, he is critiqued for it and often chastised, told that it’s none of his business, even though he’s an elected member. Is this what “For God and Country” stands for? -- Concerned Legionnaire’s Wife Dear Concerned Legionnaire’s Wife: Certainly not. But even the most virtuous motto falls flat without good men and women standing behind it. It’s time for your husband and any other upstanding members to take action. He can contact the American Legion’s internal affairs department at 317-6301330 for guidance.

Dear Annie: I have been a special education teacher for over 20 years. The students in my class have intensive needs, and therefore we have a high staff-to-student ratio. I have an exceptional assistant, and we have dedicated aides.

The reason I am writing is I believe that parents have difficulty with giving gifts at the holidays and the end of the year. Certainly, any gift is very much appreciated, but in the special education world, parents can be overwhelmed by the number of people involved in educating their children and often feel as though they need to send in something for everyone. Though that is a very nice thought, I also know that raising a child who has special needs is expensive, and I see parents spend so much more than necessary. I just wanted to offer a few suggestions to your readers who may find themselves in this position.

Gift cards for coffee, a basket of snacks to be used on a staff development day (or just a tough day!), a jar of miniature chocolates, homemade sweets that can be shared among a group of people -- any of these would do. You could also contact a couple of other parents and purchase a gift card together to buy lunch. I always enjoy homemade ornaments or magnets. Even a card with a note to say how much someone’s hard work has meant to your child’s development is a treasure. There is no need to break the bank to make someone feel special. -- Anonymous Dear Anonymous: Your dedication and thoughtfulness are inspiring. I’m printing your letter now, in advance of the holidays. Thank you for the perspective.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. To find out more about Annie Lane and read features by other Creators Syndicate columnists and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

HINTS FROM HELOISE PAYING FOR THE ‘PRIVILEGE’?

Dear Readers: Today’s SOUND OFF is about the fees charged by stores for the privilege of shopping there: “Dear Heloise: There are a couple of large discount stores that charge a fee to shop there, and frankly, I don’t understand why I need to pay for a discount! I asked the clerk why I had to pay for the ‘privilege’ of spending my money in that store, and the clerk said that they have a low markup on all items, and the fees are the main source of the company’s revenue. As a businesswoman, I find that difficult to believe.” -- Lori M. in Dallas Readers, how do you feel about paying a fee to shop at a particular store? -- Heloise FAST FACTS Dear Readers: Here are some uses for stale bread: * Make croutons out of it and freeze them for future use. * Stale bread is best for bread pudding. * You can crumble it and put it in a meatloaf or use it in stews (to thicken the sauce).

-- Heloise A DEVOTED READER Dear Heloise: I love reading your column in our local Free Lance-Star newspaper! Here are two hints I’d like to share: 1. An empty tea-light holder is a perfect place to store your rolled-up fabric measuring tape.

2. The plastic cover from a store-bought cake can be reused/ recycled as a drip tray for a plant.

-- Dawn W., Fredericksburg, Va.

Debate over Ken Burns Civil War documentary continues over decades

By HILLEL ITALIE AP National Writer NEW YORK (AP) — From the time it aired nearly 30 years ago, Ken Burns' Civil War documentary has been a popular sensation and subject of debate.

The 11-hour, nine-part series premiered in September 1990 and became one of PBS' most widely seen educational programs, with some 40 million taking in at least part of the original broadcast. "The Civil War" was the rare documentary to inspire a skit on "Saturday Night Live" and helped make Burns, in his mid-30s at the time, the rare documentary maker recognizable to the general public.

During its initial run, then-President George H.W. Bush and Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf, who would soon command the U.S.-led Gulf War, were among those who watched it. Earlier this week, White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders cited the film in defense of Chief of Staff John F. Kelly, who had said the Civil War could have been avoided with more compromise.

"I don't know that I'm going to get into debating the Civil War, but I do know that many historians, including Shelby Foote in Ken Burns' famous Civil War documentary, agree that a failure to compromise was a cause of the Civil War," Sanders said. "There are a lot of historians that think that."

And a lot of historians who don't.

"There's no one who thinks intransigence was shared equally," says historian Harold Holzer. "Kelly accepted the old line idea that people were just arguing about tariffs and states' rights."

Burns himself challenged Sanders' interpretation on Twitter.

He wrote that "Many factors contributed to the Civil War. One caused it: slavery." He noted that the documentary ends with commentary from Barbara Fields, a revered scholar of slavery and the Civil War, who says "the Civil War is still going on.

It's still to be fought and regrettably it can still be lost."

As much as any book or film in recent years, Burns' series has shaped how Americans perceive the war. Holzer says "The Civil War" has a couple of important and productive legacies — it brought slavery to the center of the Civil War debate, erasing some of the damage caused by "Gone With the Wind" and other narratives of the past, and helped create an enduring popular following for Civil War stories. But he says "The Civil War" was "somewhat romanticized," notably in its treatment of Gen. Robert E. Lee and other Confederate leaders.

"Since the film and book appeared there's been a lot very good work done on Robert E. Lee," says historian Geoffrey Ward, who has collaborated with Burns on "The Civil War" and numerous other projects. "Had I the benefit of it all I'm sure we would have painted a harsher but more accurate portrait of Lee." Sanders' comments do reflect what Foote said in the film: Scholars argue about the documentary in part because Burns included commentators with very different interpretations.

Fields' perspective — that slavery was the cause, that the conflict was necessary and unavoidable and that initial hopes for black equality were fiercely resisted in the South and remain unmet — is common among historians now. But far more time in "The Civil War" is given to Foote, who died in 2005. Foote was a popular Southern historian and raconteur who scorned slave holders and abolitionists, and in Burns' film contended that the war happened "because we failed to do the thing we really have a genius for, which is compromise."

Ward praised Foote as a "master storyteller" but added that "his views on its causes were his own." The cause of the war, Ward added, was slavery.

"Ken Burns always looks for varied voices and he always looks for characters, and Shelby Foote was certainly a character," Holzer says. "The most amazing thing he said was that

In this April 27, 2010 file photo, director Ken Burns speaks at a preview of the "Discovering the Civil War" exhibit at the National Archives in Washington. Nearly 30 years after Ken Burns' Civil War documentary aired, the film's legacy is again under discussion question after White House Chief of Staff John Kelly said the war could have been avoided had there been more compromise. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

the two great geniuses of the war were Lincoln and (Confederate Gen.) Nathan Bedford Forrest. Foote somehow compared the great emancipator with a man who owned slaves, murdered blacks and joined the Ku Klux Klan. " The documentary inspired enough discussion to become a book, "Ken Burns' The Civil War: Historians Respond," a 1995 publication featuring contributions by such leading scholars as C. Vann Woodward and Eric Foner and responses from Burns and Ward.

The commentary ranges from praise by Woodward, a Pulitzer Prize winner and consultant for the film, for Burns thoroughness and dedication, to negative critiques by Foner and others. Catherine Clinton, who has worked on numerous books about the South, faulted the "wholesale neglect of women." Slavery historian Leon Litwack alleged that the film "revives the pernicious notion" that the "war need not happened at all." Foner, an authority on Reconstruction, criticized Burns for making "no attempt to convey the state of the nation at war's end in 1865."

"The word 'Reconstruction' is never mentioned, and what little information there is about the era is random and misleading," Foner wrote.

In the book, Ward acknowledged mistakes, including the wrong date for Lincoln's assassination (he had confused the date in April with the day of Franklin Roosevelt died in 1945).

But he disputed the comments of Foner and others and noted that he and Burns had done their best within the boundaries of the medium, writing that "Television is better at narrative than analysis, better at evoking emotions than at expounding complex ideas."

Burns, in the book's final essay, wrote that he and his collaborators had worked hard to "question assumptions" and "doubt easy solutions." He consulted Confederate historians, Marxist historians and those in between. The film, he insisted, was not meant to be a definitive statement and had no set agenda, beyond the evil of slavery and the timidity of Union Gen. George C. McClellan.

"The rest of the war, North and South, male and female, black and white, civilian and military, was a vast and complicated drama," he wrote, "poetic as well as social in dimension, emotional as well as didactic in context and scope, instructive to the heart as well as the head."

The swift unraveling of Kevin Spacey — in less than a week

By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) — It took less than a week for two-time Oscar winner Kevin Spacey to go from admired stage, TV and film star to a pariah, under investigation by the police and fired from his Emmy-winning role in "House of Cards." Here's a look at key developments in his still-unfolding case.

BLOCKBUSTER CLAIM Sunday, Oct. 29 In an interview with BuzzFeed, actor Anthony Rapp said he attended a party at Spacey's New York apartment in 1986, when he was 14. At the end of the night, an inebriated Spacey picked him up, placed him on his bed, and climbed on top of him, Rapp said. Rapp said the 26-year-old was holding him down tightly, but he was able to get away and left the apartment. Rapp said he was inspired to come forward in the wake of allegations swirling around Harvey Weinstein.

APOLOGY... AND MORE Monday, Oct. 30 Spacey posted on Twitter that he didn't remember the Rapp encounter. "But if I did behave then as he describes, I owe him the sincerest apology for what would have been deeply inappropriate drunken behavior," he said. Spacey, who has fiercely protected his private life, had never disclosed his sexuality before but said Rapp's story encouraged him to speak and he came out as a gay man.

Many observers thought it was an odd

time for Spacey to address his sexuality or was even an attempt to deflect blame.

ONLINE FIRESTORM All day, Spacey faced condemnation from gay activists and fellow performers, including actor Zachary Quinto, comedian Wanda Sykes and musician Lance Bass, as well as the gay rights group GLAAD. Netflix and the "House of Cards" producer, Media Rights Capital, announced the show would end after the conclusion of season six (though they added that such a decision had been made before the allegations) and some show executives arrived in Baltimore, where the series is shot, to make sure actors and crew "continue to feel safe and supported."

ANOTHER ALLEGATION Tuesday Oct. 31 Mexican actor Roberto Cavazos wrote on his Facebook page that he encountered Spacey at the bar of London's Old Vic Theatre, where Spacey was artistic director from 2004-15, and the actor tried to fondle him against his will. "It was more common for this guy, when he was in the bar of his theater, grabbing whoever caught his attention," Cavazos wrote. "I didn't stand for it, but I know some people who were afraid to stop it."

In a statement, the Old Vic expressed "deep dismay" at the sexual assault allegations and said "inappropriate behavior by anyone working at The Old Vic is completely unacceptable." Spacey did not respond to requests for comment.

Tuesday's episode of the NBC drama

"This Is Us," which had initially referred to a Spacey film, was reedited to replace him with Christian Bale.

'TOXIC' SET Thursday , Nov. 2 CNN reported that eight current or former "House of Cards" workers claimed that Spacey made the production a "toxic" workplace and one exemployee alleged the actor sexually assaulted him. CNN reported that all of the people described Spacey's behavior as predatory. The report accused Spacey of allegedly targeting staffers who were typically young and male with nonconsensual touching and crude comments.

More fallout came when Spacey's talent agency Creative Arts Agency said it was no longer representing Spacey, and his publicist also parted ways with the actor.

DEEPENING CRISIS Friday, Nov. 3 London police said they had begun investigating an alleged 2008 sexual assault reportedly linked to Spacey. The Sun newspaper said the new allegation comes from a man who was in his early 20s at the time. In America, Netflix said it would cut all ties with Spacey, and will not be involved with any further production of "House of Cards" that includes him. The company also said it will not release the film "Gore," starring Spacey, which was in post-production.

In another blow to Spacey's wallet, a Dutch business forum canceled his headline appearance at their conference Nov. 29 in Rotterdam.

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

SPEED BUMP Dave Coverly

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

AGNES Tony Cochran

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017 - PAGE 13

RUBES Leigh Rubin

ARCHIE Fernando Ruiz and Craig Boldman

DADDY’S HOME

Tony Rubino and Gary Markstein

YOUR

HOROSCOPE

Contract Bridge

By Jaqueline Bigar

DUSTIN By Steve Kelley and Jeff Parker

HAPPY BIRTHDAY for Monday, Nov. 6, 2017: This year you could find partnerships to be somewhat difficult when critical issues come forward. Money frequently emerges as an issue. Make it OK to share different points of view, but also be willing to negotiate. If you are single, you often have a hard time finding the right words to express your feelings. You tend to attract serious people who don’t mind your intense traits. If you are attached, you sometimes make waves in your relationship.

Be smart and try to get through this phase.

GEMINI can be a gigantic tease.

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

SCARY GARY

Mark Buford

DOGS of C-KENNEL Mick and Mason Mastroianni

B.C. Mastroianni and Hart

ONE BIG HAPPY Rick Detorie

ANDY CAPP Mahoney, Goldsmith and Garnett

ZACK HILL John Deering and John Newcombe

ARIES (March 21-April 19) HHHHH Try to avoid being overly serious and somber. You could feel uncomfortable with a conversation and the level of detachment from those involved. You might have a strong reaction, and that reaction could shake up the status quo. Tonight: Catch up with close friends.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) HHH You often can be possessive and demanding without realizing it, especially when you feel insecure. Get more in touch with these feelings in order to gain a greater sense of control over them. You might feel intimidated, but know that everything will work out. Tonight: Out late.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) HHHH You are more in touch with your feelings of insecurity right now. A loved one might seem out of touch or disconnected from you. You sense these feelings and could internalize them. A friend or a meeting will be full of surprises. Tonight: Go for more of what you want.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) HHHHH You might be over dealing with people and their issues. You’ll enjoy cocooning and not bothering with matters you don’t want to handle. Giving yourself a break from the status quo will help you to recharge your batteries. You need some time off. Tonight: Get some R and R. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) HHHH Express your sensitivity to those in your inner circle. A child might not be in the best shape. This person could be out of sorts, and you could find the experience draining. The unexpected occurs when dealing with someone at a distance. Tonight: Zero in on your goals.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) HHHH Take charge of matters that affect your public and/or professional image. You might feel a little off or depressed when dealing with a personal matter. Putting your energy elsewhere would be a wise move. A partner goes that extra step to support you.

Tonight: Be near music.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) HHHHH One-on-one relating takes you down a new path, where you feel more effective. Someone at a distance might not be as responsive as you would like. Understand where this person is coming from.

Acknowledge a key person in your life.

Tonight: Enjoy great music!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) HHHHH Whatever you do seems to have a close and intimate feel to it. Others look for you, as they need honest feedback and trust your thoughts. You could have an unexpected insight as you go through your daily routine. Work with spontaneity. Tonight: Out with a special person.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) HHHH You might think that you can’t get past a certain issue. You could have difficulty changing your mind. You are likely to discover that you need to change gears or approach a situation differently. Listen to an associate who handles problems in a unique way. Tonight: Out and about.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) HHH You might feel as if you need a break or a change of pace. Can you make a difference in a difficult situation that is affecting your daily life? Get feedback and gather suggestions. You could be withdrawn.

Recycle with a walk or a power nap. Tonight: Work as late as need be.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) HHHH You are full of excitement, and you’re willing to make an adjustment for a loved one. You often push very hard to achieve the results you desire. Now, if you allow your creativity and energy to emerge, you could be sitting on a sure-bet winner.

Tonight: Be more childlike!

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) HHHH Your spending might be scrutinized by others. Take charge of what is occurring. You might be surprised by a financial matter. Act only if you feel lucky and have an intuitive sense about what to do. You might opt to spend more time at home. Tonight: Dinner at a favorite place.

BORN TODAY Actress Sally Field (1946), singer/songwriter Glenn Frey (1948), actress Emma Stone (1988)

Crosswords

Cryptoquip

PAGE 14 - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

Westfield Farmers’ Market Extended The Westfield Farmers’ Market will have three Winter Markets to be held inside the church.

The dates are November 18, December 9 and February 10. The hours are 10 am to 3 pm.

As we have had all summer, we feature 25 to 30 local vendors and crafters selling all sorts of fresh produce and other products. There will also be music, thanks to a grant from the Westfield Cultural Council. SNAP and HIP benefits are accepted, and we will match up to $5.00 when SNAP tokens are purchased at the Market Table. For more information please visit our web page at www.westfieldfarmersmarket.net or call 562-5431 x101.

Newport Playhouse Trip The Huntington COA is planning a day trip December 7thto the Newport Playhouse & Cabaret Restaurant in Newport, Rhode Island. The bus will leave from downtown Huntington at 8:00 am and Westfield at 8:30 am, returning about 6:30 pm. The group will travel on the Luxury Silver Fox Motor Coach with a beautiful ocean drive, then off to the Newport Playhouse and Cabaret Restaurant to enjoy an extensive, hearty buffet. After lunch, the group will be able to sit back and enjoy Newport’s Playhouse’s show “Dashing Through the Snow” in the intimate theater. This madcap show features, among other people, Mrs. Claus, various elves, as well as a zany cast of holiday characters in a wonderful and funny production with a holiday theme. After the show, it’s back to the dining room that is transformed into a captivating cabaret. The cost of the trip is $69 for Huntington residents, all others pay $89.

The bus is wheelchair accessible. The cost includes the ocean drive sightseeing tour, admission to The Newport Playhouse for show and cabaret, a full buffet luncheon with gratuities, and the luxury Silver Fox Motor Coach.

For reservations, please contact Helen at 413.667-3500 or Anna at 413.667.3141.

Payments must be received

by November 7th.

Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce – November After 5 Connection November 8, 2017 (5 – 7 pm) Join us for our November After 5 Connection hosted byWegrzyn Dental Group, 94 N Elm Street, Suite 305, Westfield, MA.FREE for Chamber members, $10 Potential Members (cash/ credit paid at the door).

Refreshments will be served/ cash bar. 50/50 Raffle to benefit our Chamber Scholarship fund! Bring your business cards and make connections!

On-line registration will be made available @ www. westfieldbiz.org. For more information, please call Pam at the Chamber at 413.568.1618.

Athenaeum: Free Parent Workshop (Part 1) Wed Nov 8th 6:00pm 7:30pm Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St, Westfield, MA 01085, USA WESTFIELD — Part one of a free two-part parent workshop on understanding your child’s temperament and how to connect with them on a level that will cause them to want to cooperate, listen and make better choices.

LEGAL NOTICES October 24, 30, 2017 November 6, 2017 NOTICE OF MORTGAGEE'S SALE OF REAL ESTATE By virtue and in execution of the Power of Sale contained in a certain mortgage given by Carole J. McGregor to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., dated January 21, 2016 and recorded with the Hampden County Registry of Deeds at Book 21040, Page 293, of which mortgage the undersigned is the present holder by assignment from Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. to Home Point Financial Corporation dated August 24, 2016 and recorded with said registry on August 25, 2016 at Book 21325 Page 555, for breach of the conditions of said mortgage and for the purpose of foreclosing, the same will be sold at Public Auction at 12:00 p.m. on November 13, 2017, on the mortgaged premises located at 130 Lindbergh Boulevard, Westfield, Hampden County, Massachusetts, all and singular the premises described in said mortgage,

LEGAL NOTICES

October 30, 2017 November 6, 2017

November 6, 2017

Town of Southwick Board of Appeals

City of Westfield NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL LAWS, CHAPTER 131, SECTION 40 (WETLANDS PROTECTION ACT) A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD ON November 14, 2017 at 6:30 PM AT: Westfield City Hall Room 201 59 Court Street Westfield, MA 01085 THIS MEETING IS HELD FOR A: NOTICE OF INTENT SUBMITTED BY: Cellco Partnership d/b/a Verizon Wireless FOR WORK TO BE PERFORMED AT: 866 Shaker Road (Map 6, Block R, Lot 8) Southampton Road

Notice is hereby given of a public hearing to be held Monday, November 13th, 2017, at the Southwick Town Hall, 454 College Highway, Southwick, MA at 7:15 pm to hear the petition of Ryan Pease, 180 Mort Vining Road, Southwick, MA. The petitioner is seeking a front setback variance of 35 feet in order to replace concrete steps with 12 X 10 ft deck on the house.

For: Paul A. Grégoire Chairman, Board of Appeals

S. 51° 10' E. a distance of one hundred one and 38/100 (101.38) feet to a point; thence S. 38° 50' W. a distance of seventy-five and 00/100 (75.00) feet to a point; thence N. 51° 10' W. a distance of one hundred one and 38/100 (101.38) feet to a point on the said easterly line of Lindbergh Boulevard: thence N. 38° 50' E. along said easterly line of Lindbergh Boulevard a distance of seventy-fie and 00/100 (75.00) feet to the place of beginning.

Being the same property as transferred by deed dated 08/16/2010, recorded 09/10/2010, from H. Michael Higgins and Barbara C, Higgins, husband and wife, to Carole J. McGregor, Individually, recorded in book 18451, page 51.

For mortgagor's(s') title see deed recorded with Hampden County Registry of Deeds in Book 18451, Page 51.

These premises will be sold and conveyed subject to and with the benefit of all rights, rights of way, restrictions, easements, covenan ts, liens or claims in the nature of liens, improvements, public assessments, any and all unpaid taxes, tax titles, tax liens, water and sewer liens and any other municipal assessments or liens or existing encumbrances of record which are in force and are applicable, having priority over said mortgage, whether or not reference to such restrictions, easements, improvements, liens or encumbrances is made in the deed.

TIMOTHY'S AUTO SALES. Stop by and see us! We might have exactly what you're lookTown of Southwick ing for, if not, let us find it for Board of Appeals you! Bartlett Street, Westfield.

Notice is hereby given of a pub- (413)568-2261. Specializing in lic hearing to be held Monday, vehicles under $4,000.

November 13th, 2017, at the Southwick Town Hall, 454 College Highway, Southwick, MA at 7:30 pm to hear the petition of Tim Foster, 38 Miller Road, Southwick, MA. The petitioner is seeking relief from zoning setbacks in order to construct a garage on the property.

For: Paul A. Grégoire Chairman, Board of Appeals

Contact: Paul A. Grégoire (413) 569-5230

Submitted: October 25, 2017

November 6, 13, 2017

Contact: Paul A. Grégoire (413) 569-5230

City of Westfield Planning Board

November 6, 13, 2017

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

City of Westfield Planning Board

SALES PROFESSIONALS

WANTED

How Much Money Do You Want To Make? You Decide.

Are you a people person?

Do you like sales & advertising?

Are you goal-oriented = $$$ The Westfield News Group is seeking sales professionals to market our four print publications & websites to businesses in the Pioneer Valley.

Submit Your Resume To: resumes@thewestfieldnewsgroup.com

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Westfield Planning Board will conduct a continued Public Hearing on November 21, 2017, at 7:00 PM, in City Council Chambers, Municipal Building, 59 Court St., Westfield, MA on the revised application of Frank DeMarinis for a Special Permit, Site Plan and Stormwater Permit per Zoning Ord. Sec. 3170.7, 6-10 & 4-110 to allow for a school and associated site development at 0 Root Rd. (Parcel 62R-24-1G), zoned Industrial A and Water Resource.

November 6, 2017 City of Westfield NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL LAWS, CHAPTER 131, SECTION 40 (WETLANDS PROTECTION ACT) A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD ON November 14, 2017 at 6:30 PM AT: Westfield City Hall Room 201 59 Court Street Westfield, MA 01085 THIS MEETING IS HELD FOR A: NOTICE OF INTENT SUBMITTED BY: Craig Dwyer/Westfield Community Solar LLC FOR WORK TO BE PERFORMED AT: 0 Southampton Road WORK WILL CONSIST OF: Construction of a solar array facility.

POSTED: November 1, 2017 DAVID A. DOE CONSERVATION COMMISSION CHAIRMAN

Looking for a Unique Gift?

Other terms, if any, to be announced at the sale.

Cadence Aerospace Tell Tool Operations, a leading supplier to the Aerospace and Defense Industries, is looking for qualified individuals to join our high-performance team. Tell Tool is in need of qualified individuals with Aerospace manufacturing experience. Cadence Aerospace offers competitive wages, shift differential & excellent benefits: Sign on Bonus based on skill set, 10 paid holidays, vacation/personal time, medical, dental, vision, FSA, 401k, performance bonus, STD/LTD insurance, tuition reimbursement and career opportunities throughout North America.

Burr Hand: Ability to use hand/motorized Deburr equip. & work to fine finishes required by customers. Must be able to work independently w/minor supervision. 5+ yrs. exp. deburring complex aerospace parts.

Bridgeport Dept.: Honing/lapping and General Bridgeport. 5+ yrs. exp.

Assembly: Must be able to assemble products w/established standards using hand & assembly tools, follow instructions from work orders, prints and verbal orders. 5+ yrs. exp.

CNC Machinist: Capable of set up, operation & inspection of parts on 5 axis CNC lights out machining centers. 2+ yrs. exp.

Final Inspector: Quality Inspector – Responsible for conducting final inspection of complex aerospace parts. DSQR certification a plus.

Please complete your application on-line at: www.cadenceaerospace.com

Submit your application by e-mail to telltool.careers@ cadenceaerospace.com fax: 413-562-4736 Mail or in person at: 35 Turnpike Industrial Road, Westfield, MA 01085

Town of Southwick Substitute Crossing Guard

Put a picture of someone you love on a keepsake.

These are pictures the staff at The Westfield News Group have taken at events throughout our communities.

HOME POINT FINANCIAL CORPORATION Present holder of said mortgage By its Attorneys, HARMON LAW OFFICES, P.C. 150 California Street Newton, MA 02458 (617) 558-0500 201610-0535 - TEA

HELP WANTED

EOE - M/F/Disabled/Vet

TERMS OF SALE: A deposit of Five Thousand ($5,000.00 ) Dollars by certified or bank check will be required to be paid by the purchaser at the time and place of sale. The balance is to be paid by certified or bank check at Harmon Law Offices, P.C., 150 California Street, Newton, Massachusetts 02458, or by mail to P.O. Box 610389, Newton Highlands, Massachusetts 02461-0389, within thirty (30) days from the date of sale.

Deed will be provided to purchaser for recording upon receipt in full of the purchase price. The description of the premises contained in said mortgage shall control in the event of an error in this publication.

AUTO FOR SALE

October 30, 2017 November 6, 2017

Submitted: October 25, 2017

The Westfield Planning Board will conduct a Public Hearing on November 21, 2017, at 7:00 PM, in City Council Chambers, MuniWORK WILL CONSIST OF: cipal Building, 59 Court St., Construction of 120 foot mono- Westfield, MA on the application pole wireless communication fa- of Westfield Community Solar, LLC, for a Special Permit, Site TO WIT: cility.

Plan Approval & Stormwater Management Permit per Zoning All that certain parcel of land POSTED: November 2, 2017 Ord. Sec. 3-170.7, 3-130.2(24) & situated in the City of Westfield, 4-110 to allow for a large scale County of Hampden and State of DAVID A. DOE solar power generator at 0 Massachusetts bounded and de- CONSERVATION Southampton Rd. (Parcel 70Rscribed as follows: 17-1A), zoned Industrial A and COMMISSION CHAIRMAN Water Resource. The application is available for public inThe land in said Westfield, in the spection at the Planning Office County of Hampden and Comand at monwealth of Massachusetts, www.cityofwestfield.org/ bounded and described as folapplications lows;

Commencing at a point on the easterly line of Lindbergh Boulevard a distance of one hundred eighty-four and 92/100 (184.92) feet from a stone monument at the intersection of the northerly line of East Silver Street and the easterly line of Lindbergh Boulevard; thence running

LEGAL NOTICES

Go to www.thewestfieldnews.com visit “Photos” look for your favorite photo, then click the “Buy” icon located at the top.

The Southwick Police Department is seeking Substitute Crossing Guard for Powder Mill School. Individuals must be available to work Monday to Friday during the school year. The crossing hours are 7:45 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 2:05 p.m. 3:35 p.m. The hourly rate of pay is $12.12 per hour.

Applications can be downloaded from the Town of Southwick website @ www.southwickma.org or obtained from the Southwick Select Board Office located at 454 College Highway, Southwick, MA 01077. Applications must be submitted to the Select Board’s Office

by December 15, 2017 @ 12:00 p.m. No Phone calls please. The Town of Southwick is an ADA/EOE/AA employer.

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017 - PAGE 15

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Who Does It? Local Business Bulletin Board To Advertise Call 413-562-4181

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subscription must be paid in advance. referring party must be a current subscriber to receive Gift Certificate.

Mail in this form to: The Westfield News 62 School St. • Westfield, MA 01085 or Contact Melissa for more Information 413-562-4181, Ext. 117

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DANIEL E. BELLEVILLE • 413-527-9851 151 College Hwy. Rte 10 • Southampton, MA 01073

PETS

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Do you have a carrier who goes above and beyond in their delivery of The Westfield News? If so– we want to hear about it!

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It involves Step routine & choreograph floor routine that includes strength/stretch.

Route #3 Barbara St Kittredge Dr Beverly Dr Rogers Ave Sunset Dr Woodside Ter.

Address: ___________________________________________________________

Kevin Sullivan

Mon., Wed., & Fri. 9:30AM -10:30AM

Route #2 Loring Ln Western Ave Woodland Rd

Name: _____________________________________________________________

• thermal entry / storm doors • • General carpentry & repairs • • complete vinyl sidinG & repairs •

We have an opening for a certified Aerobic instructor at the YMCA of Greater Westfield.

Route #1 Adams St. Crown St. Montgomery Rd. Montgomery St. Murray Ave. Prospect St.

~ New Customer INformatIoN ~

Serving Westfield & Surrounding Areas • 25+ Years Experience

Aerobic Instructor

Westfield News:

Refer a Friend, Family Member or Co-Worker and You will receive a $20.00 Gift Certificate to a Local Restaurant!

Sullivan Siding & WindoWS, inc.

HELP WANTED

FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES

PLUMBING & HEATING Sewer & Drain Cleaning 413-782-7322 No Job

Lic. #26177 • AGAWAM, MA

Too Small!

85 Skyline Dr., Westfield, MA 01085 A Division of Poehlman Electric

Call 413-265-0564

or email jilljarvis1968@yahoo.com

Carleton’s

Custom Lamp Picture Repair Framing 38 West school st. and and Restoration Westfield, MA Repair Appointments anytime

(413) 568-2339

(413) 537-5842

PAGE 16 - MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2017

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

ARTICLES FOR SALE BEAUTIFUL WHITE LACE QUEEN-SIZE BEDSPREAD Like new!

Cleaned and packaged.

Must see! $100. 413-572-4616

FIREWOOD 2 Years Seasoned Hardwood.

Cut/Split/Delivered.

Ready for immediate delivery.

WHOLESALE WOOD PRODUCTS

304-851-7666

OIL TANK - 275-Gallon oil tank.

Used only one season. Best Offer. Call George, (413)642-5828.

WANTED TO BUY $$ AUTOS WANTED $$

Top Dollar paid for your unwanted cars, trucks, vans.

Running or not. We pay and tow away. Sell your car TODAY. 413-534-5400

Deadline: Thursday, 1 WEEK PRIOR to your Tag Sale! (not same week)

WANTED TO BUY

A STEP ABOVE THE REST! JMF CHIMNEY SERVICE Repair your chimney before winter wreaks havoc. We do brick repair, crown seals and repairs. We also do stainless steel liner installs, as well as stainless rain caps. We sweep all flues. Free estimates provided.

Call: 413-330-2186

FIREWOOD & TOP SOIL -----------------

HENTNICK CHIMNEY SWEEPS. Chimney repairs and rebuilds. Stainless steel caps and liner systems. Inspections, masonry work and gutter cleaning. Free estimates. Insured.

Quality work from a business you can trust. (413)848-0100, (800)793-3706.

CLEANING A.R.A. Junk, Furniture & Appliance Removal Full house clean-outs.

Basements, attics & garages.

Demolition: Patios, sheds and swing-sets. You name it...we take it! Senior discounts. Free estimates on phone. Credit cards accepted. 7 days a week.

Emergency, same day service.

Call Pete 413-433-0356

DRYWALL T-BEST DRYWALL. Complete professional drywall at amateur prices. Our ceilings are tops!

Call Mike 413-821-8971. Free estimates.

ELECTRICIAN JIM FERRIS ELECTRIC Senior discount. No job too small! Insured, free estimates.

40 years experience. Lic. #16303. Call (413)330-3682.

FLOREK'S ELECTRICAL SERVICE

SAWMILL DIRECT BEST QUALITY

Others try to match our price...but can't beat our quality.

Accepting most competitors coupons. We deliver. Run by veterans.

Green Meadow Lumber 568-0056

FLOORING & FLOOR SANDING A RON JOHNSON's Floor Sanding, Installation, Repairs, 3 coats polyurethane.

Free estimates. (413)569-3066.

FORESTRY JML FORESTRY Seasoned Firewood for Sale 1/2 to Full Cords Delivered 413-575-8900 Westfield

GUTTERS GET YOUR GUTTERS CLEANED BEFORE THE FREEZE! We clean, flush and check for leaks. Call Matt for free estimate. 413-777-8381

Call Jason, Master Electrician: 413-568-6293 POEHLMAN ELECTRIC All types of wiring.

Free estimates. Insured.

SPECIALIZING IN PORTABLE AND WHOLE HOUSE KOHLER GENERATORS, SERVICE UPGRADES, SMALL JOBS, POOLS. NOW DOING LIGHT FIXTURE REWIRING AND LAMP REPAIR. Gutter de-icing cables installed. All calls answered!

Best prices, prompt service.

Lic. #A-16886 (413)562-5816

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

JOSEPH'S HANDYMAN COMPANY Carpentry, remodeling, kitchen, baths, basements, drywall, tile, floors, suspended ceilings, restoration services, doors, windows, decks, stairs, interior/exterior painting, plumbing. Small jobs ok. All types of professional work done since 1985. Call Joe, (413)364-7038.

Plumley Landscape, Inc.

HOUSE PAINTING

PHIL'S DUMP RUNS & DEMOLITION Better Business Bureau A+ Removal of any items in cellars, attics, etc... Also brush removal and small demolition (sheds, decks, fences, one car garages).

Fully insured. Free estimates.

(413)525-2892 (413)265-6380

HOME DESIGN SERVICES TIRED OF WAITING TO GET THINGS DONE?

ALWAYS CALL FIRST!!!

M&M SERVICES 29 Years serving the Westfield area. Painting, staining, house washing, interior/exterior. Wall coverings. Water damage and ceiling/wall repairs.

Commercial/residential. Free estimates. Insured. References.

Call Carmine at: 413-568-9731 or 413-537-4665 No job too small !!

LETOURNEAU & SONS PAINTING

We are a family owned and operated, painting and home improvement company serving the Westfield area since 1986.

We specialize in residential/commercial, interior/exterior painting and staining, ceiling and drywall repairs, water damage repair, exterior home repairs, and carpentry of all types including roof repairs.

Call Bill for your FREE no obligation estimate (413) 977-9633 or (413) 562-5727 www.Ls-painting.com

Fresh Look Interiors combines a lifetime love of home and garden with a background in design and home improvement to offer custom cabinet & furniture painting.

LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE

My home concierge services include styling, cleaning/prep and design consultations for your home, businesss or real estate listing.

A & J LANDSCAPING

Visit my website for pricing www.freshlookinteriors.style

HOME IMPROVEMENT DAVE DAVIDSON: Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling "GET IT RIGHT THIS TIME" Complete Bath Renovations.

Now serving CT. Insured. Quality Work on Time on Budget Since 1984. MA. License #072233, MA.Registration #144831. CT. HIC. #0609568 569-9973. www.davedavidsonremodeling. com PIONEER VALLEY PROPERTY SERVICES 413-454-3366 Complete Home Renovations, Improvements, Repairs & Maintenance. Kitchens, Baths, Basements, Decks, Siding, Windows, Painting, Flooring and more.

Rental Property Management, Turnovers and Repair Services.

CSL Licensed, HIC Reg. Fully Insured - Free Estimates & References

Call us today for all your landscape needs. Design and planting, irrigation installation and repair, complete yard renovations. Drainage problems, stump grinding, chipper service, bobcat service, gravel driveways, excavation and demolition, including in-ground and above ground swimming pools.

413-862-4749 _________________________

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL!

HAULING

Call today 508-524-0564

Fully experienced for all your electrical needs, in your home or business. No job too small or too big. Electrical service upgrades, new construction or additions, emergency generators; New installation and maintenance service. Fully insured/licensed.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Fall Clean-ups Mowing, Trimming, Mulching Planting & Landscape Design Quality Work & Service Call Tony

413-519-7001 Bobcat service also available For Bobcat service, call Mike @ 413-562-6502

Fall Clean-ups & Leaf pick-up Rip out & removal of old shrubs & plantings Snow Plowing Residential / Commercial Fully insured 27 years experience

413-575-1016

Hagger's Landscaping Services LLC All your landscaping needs, Residential & Commercial -------Lawn aeration & seeding, hedge trimming, brush removal. Fall clean-ups, curb-side leaf pick-up, lawn mowing.

5-step fertilizing.

Snow plowing & ice management -------Hardscaping Patios, walkways, fire pits and retaining walls. Bobcat services also available.

-------Call today for your FREE estimate!!!

FULLY INSURED (413) 626-6122 or visit: www.haggerscape.com _________________________

LAWNMOWER REMOVALS FREE Removal of Junk Riding Lawnmowers Will remove any junk riding lawnmowers and will buy lawnmowers in running condition.

Call anytime: 860-216-8768

RAIN GUTTERS RAIN GUTTERS CLEANED & REPAIRED Chimneys repaired and chimney caps installed.

Antennas removed. Roof leaks repaired, vent areas sealed.

Senior citizen discount. Insured.

Free estimates.

H.I. Johnson Services (413)596-8859 (before 9pm)

SNOWPLOWING A-1 SNOWPLOWING Affordable Building Contractor Residential & Light Commercial Westfield Only 22 Years Experience Call Dave 413-568-6440

SNOW PLOWING ----------------------CALL DON: 413-313-3447 STORAGE STORAGE Camper, Boat, Trailer outdoor storage yard.

Year-round discounts.

Safe and secure.

Lockhouse Rd. Westfield, MA JML 413-575-8900

TOP TRUCK SERVICES CORP. Family Owned Servicing Western Mass since 1998

Truck & Trailer Repair We repair Pick-ups, Vans, SUVs & Campers in addition to light, medium, and heavy duty diesel trucks.

NAPA Truck Service Budget Truck Rental Location 24-Hour Emergency Service Fleet Repair MA Inspection Station

Holy Family Parish, in Russell is holding a Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, November 11th at the VFW on Route 20, from 9am-3pm.

Jewelry, LulaRoe, quilted and wooden items and decorations and gifts, homemade jellies and soaps, beautiful hand-crafted art of every type, lots of Christmas crafts and gifts, and so much more!

Homemade macaroni and cheese, soups, stews, chili, cornbread and goodies will be available for purchase to eat there or take home.

We haven't forgotten about the kids! There will be a craft table for them to make their own Christmas ornaments to take home!

We hope you'll stop by and get your Christmas shopping done early!

We look forward to seeing on on November 11th!

APARTMENT 5 ROOM, 3 bedroom, completely renovated Westfield/Russell area, country setting. NEW stove, refrigerator and heating unit.

Large yard, parking. $975 p/month. No pets please.

Call today, won't last.

Available October 1.

(413)348-3431

WESTFIELD: 1 Bedroom, Kitchen & Bath; Utilities included. $700 p/month, no pets. 1st/Last/Security.

413-250-4811

WESTFIELD: 3 Bedrooms, Kitchen, Living Room & Bath. $1100.00 per month + utilities.

1st/Last/Security. 413-250-4811

BUSINESS PROPERTY

"No truck or job too big or too small" 165 Bliss St. West Springfield, MA top-truck.com

HOME DECOR Making beautiful new rooms for over 16 years. From cabinet make-overs to faux finishes, and staging for sales and decorating advice for a new look. Call Kendra now for all your painting needs. Fully insured.

Free Estimates (413)626-8880 or (413)564-0223

Smith Vocational & Agricultural High School 80 Locust St. Northampton

TRUCK SERVICE

413-788-6787

PAINTING & WALLPAPERING

Handmade crafts. Over 70 vendors Food for sale by PTO B building, Gym Free parking & admission.

THE HOLY FAMILY CHRISTMAS BAZAAR IS COMING!

floram@thewestfieldnewsgroup.com • BUSINESS DIRECTORY • To Advertise call 413-562-4181 Ext. 118 FIREWOOD

Holiday Craft Fair Sun. Nov. 19th 9am-2pm

Buying junk or wrecked cars and light trucks.

Call Mark's Auto Parts, E. Granby, CT 860-653-2551

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CHIMNEY SWEEPS

CRAFT FAIRS

TREE SERVICE American Tree & Shrub: Removal, pruning, bucket/crane work. Stump grinding, light excavation and tree planting.

Firewood Available Fully Insured, Free Estimates.

24-hour Emergency Services.

Veteran Owned 40 yrs. Experience 413-569-0469

LANDSCAPE BUSINESS FOR SALE (Retiring) EVERYTHING GOES! Serious Inquiries Only 413-732-0377

SERVICES A1 ODD JOBS/HANDYMAN Can You Help Sarah?

Debris removal, landscaping, SPRING yard cleanup, interior and exterior painting, power washing, basic carpentry and plumbing. All types of repair work and more. (413)562-7462

UPHOLSTERY PLUMBING & HEATING NICK GARDNER PLUMBING, WELDING & MECHANICAL SERVICES. Reliable service, Professional. Certified Welding.

Insured. MA Lic. #PL31893-J. Call (413)531-2768 Nick7419@comcast.net

KEITH'S UPHOLSTERY & REPAIRS 30+ years experience for home or business. Discount off all fabrics. Get quality workmanship at a great price. Free pickup and delivery. Call (413)562-6639.

PERSONAL CARE/ www.sarahgillett.org HOME-MAKER Includes housekeeping, errands, transportation.

References & background checked.

Call: 413-301-3615

WINDOW CLEANING

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOWS

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Lawn care, yard clean-ups, skid steer work, side-walks, tree work. BEST PRICING! 860-818-1703

Cleaned Inside & Out! Including screens and storm windows. Fully insured.

Free Estimates Call Paul NOW for your FALL appointment.

413-237-2053

Want To Know A Secret?

Ask Sarah. www.sarahgillett.org