Tow truck drivers honor one of their own
The ONLY local coverage in Brookfield – West Brookfield – East Brookfield – North Brookfield – Warren – West Warren & New Braintree CURRENT REGION Rabies clinics scheduled, p7 SPORTS Watkins reaches 1000, p10 Volume 8, Number 23 – 16 Pages West brookfield Seniors brush away winter blues, p16 Calendar Editorial/Opinion Police Logs 2 4 6 Sports Classifieds 10 13/15 QUABOAG CURRENT (USPS# 10860) is published weekly (every Thursday) by Turley Publications Inc. 24 Water Street Palmer, MA 01069 Periodical Postage Prices are Paid at Palmer, MA POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: Quaboag Current 24 Water Street Palmer, MA 01069 Friday, February 27, 2015 Tow truck drivers honor one of their own -STURBRIDGEBy Patti Gittes Town Common Reporter M ore than 200 tow trucks and other emergency vehicles filled the parking lot of the Sturbridge Host Hotel and Conference Center and surrounding businesses Saturday morning in a moving tribute to 22-year-old Kevin St. Pierre, tow truck operator who was killed recently while on duty in Auburn. All of the vehicles had their emergency lights blinking and rotating in a silent memorial display. At precisely 11 a.m., the honor procession started to slowly make its way down Route 131 to St. John Paul II Parish in Southbridge, where it passed by St. Pierre’s casket, which had been laid upon a flat-bed truck surrounded by family and other mourners, before going to the cemetery. The truckers and family later returned to the hotel for a memorial meal. St. Pierre was in the breakdown lane on the Massachusetts Turnpike assisting another driver when he was struck by a boxtruck Feb. 11. See HONOR I PAGE 8 WPD Citizens Academy to begin -WARRENBy Jennifer Robert Quaboag Current Reporter Back in 1999, the Warren Police Department ran a successful Citizen’s Police Academy, a program designed to introduce residents to the workings of the department and shed light on how and why police officers do their jobs. Nearly 20 years later, Sargent Joseph LaFlower is bringing the academy back and there are still a few openings left for interested parties. “We are doing this to increase people’s knowledge of how their police department works and how and why officers do their jobs,” LaFlower said. “We have a few spots left.” While LaFlower said that the department understands that people have busy schedules, there is a maximum of two classes missed in order to be able to gradSee ACADEMY I PAGE 9 “He did everything right. Kevin was a great kid, one I don’t think we’ll ever be able to replace. He was punctual and very safety conscious.” – Craig Moran Owner, Sturbridge Service Center, Inc. A Sturbridge police cruiser gets ready to lead a procession of tow trucks onto Route 131 to Southbridge in tribute to Kevin St. Pierre. Midnight Raven set to release March 20 -NORTH BROOKFIELDBy Jennifer Robert Quaboag Current Reporter When Hunting the Moon was released in December of 2013, fans of North Brookfield author Becca Boucher had the chance to meet Kat, a loner who trusts no one with a magical lineage. Next month Boucher will release the second book in The Moon series, Midnight Raven, and readers will be able to see Kat, along with her related characters, brought to the next level. “People who read the first book can expect a more grown up romance,” Boucher said. “This is definitely an adult book. Kat is a tough character to like; she is not the girl next door.” Midnight Raven can be a stand-alone book, though, so Boucher hopes that even if people have not had a chance to read Hunting the Moon they will delve into the pages of this story. Boucher said that the novel tells Kat’s story and how she faces the consequences of her Turley Publications photo by Patti Gittes Barn dance to benefit EQLT efforts -WEST BROOKFIELDBy Jennifer Robert Quaboag Current Reporter Quaboag Current photo by Jennifer Robert Author Becca Boucher with her newest release, Midnight Raven. actions. A chance encounter with a raven sets into motion a range of events, Boucher explained, and she crosses paths with Cace Matthews, successful doctor on the exterior, See RAVEN I PAGE 8 It’s time to get those toes tapping! On Saturday, March 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. the East Quabbin Land Trust (EQLT) will be holding a benefit barn dance and pot luck dinner at the West Brookfield Town Hall. EQLT Executive Director Cynthia Henshaw said that this evening is a chance to enjoy a social night out with the family while participating in a fun activity and benefitting a great cause. “There is absolutely no experience necessary,” she said. “The caller is going to teach every dance and every step and all levels - including no experience at all - are welcome. We don’t want anyone to not come because they don’t know how to dance.” Mark Leduc, local large animal veterinarian and EQLT supporter, will See DANCE I PAGE 8 PAGE A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 your SHADES OF IRELAND Sept. 10-23, 2015 $4199 Book before March 15 for $200 discount! Collette Presentation March 12 at Wok Inn 6 pm March 14 ................... Boston Flower Show ....................$59 March 21 ................... Boston Tour ...................................$69 April 18-19 ................ Trapp Family Lodge ....................$299 April 25 ..................... Broadway’s Dirty Dancing ...........$79 June 7 ........................ Norwegian Nova Scotia Cruise .$999 July 9-20 .................... Discovering Poland ..................$3949 September 10-23 ...... Shades of Ireland .....................$4199 Share the Adventure with us soon! For further information call Randall at (413) 436-5357 or email [email protected] or go to www.adventuretoursofwarren.com FOR RENT Quabbin Estates 41 Church Lane, Wheelwright, MA 01094 Accepting applications for immediate occupancy. The apartment features - w/w carpeting, kitchen appliances, maintenance coverage, laundry facilities. We specialize in Senior Housing and “Barrier Free” accessible units. Rent is $861/mo. or 30% of income, whichever is higher. RD regulations. Handicap Accessible apartments when available. CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT 413-477-6496 TDD (800)439-2379 HELP WANTED Oil Truck/ Dump Truck Driver License needed to deliver oil. Call 413-436-7314 to schedule an interview FOUNTAIN & SONS FUEL. CO. NOTICE ERRORS: Each advertiser is requested to check their advertisement the first time it appears. This paper will not be responsible for more than one corrected insertion, nor will be liable for any error in an advertisement to a greater extent than the cost of the space occupied by the item in the advertisement. “EDIBLE PERENNIAL GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING,” a 90 minute power point presentation featuring organic techniques for the cultivation of a variety of plants, will be offered by naturalist and landscaper John Root Wednesday, April 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Sturbridge Federated Church, 8 Maple St, in Sturbridge. Free; plants will be offered for sale. This program is supported in part by the Sturbridge Cultural Council. local A weekly source to local happenings. Send all community calendar items to the editor at [email protected], or through regular mail at 80 Main St., Ware, MA 01069. Final deadline for all calendar submissions is Friday at noon the week before intended publication. CURRENT EVENTS Mini Golf will be held at the Joshua Hyde Public Library, 306 Main Street in Sturbridge, on Saturday, Feb. 28 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 1 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. NB HEARTS FOR HEAT SPAGHETTI DINNER AND PTO MOVIE NIGHT Saturday, Feb. 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the North Brookfield Elementary School Cafeteria. Robin Hood will be shown at 3 p.m. Movie is free, dinner is $8 per person with a $24 per family cap. STATE REP. DONNIE BERTHIAUME will hold office hours in Brookfield Tuesday, March 3 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the Town Hall. Constituents and town officials are invited to meet with him to express any concerns, ideas, or issues that they may need assistance with. IRISH MUSIC on Monday, March 9 at 7 p.m. the First Congregational Church of West Brookfield, UCC 36 N. Main St. will host the next in their Benefit Concert Series, featuring Caitlin Nic Gabhann and Ciaran O Maonaigh on fiddle, concertina and dance. Tickets are $15/adults, $12/students and $5/children under 12. Refreshments will be served during the intermission. Call the church for more information at 508867-7078. WOMEN IN BUSINESS, INC. will be having their monthly luncheon Wednesday, March 11 at Old Sturbridge Village from 12 to 1:30 p.m. (with networking beginning at 11:45 a.m.). All meetings are open to the public – cost is $14 for members and $16 non-members. Space is limited; call 508-764-1657 to reserve a seat, or email [email protected]. NORTH BROOKFIELD SPORTSMEN’S CLUB will be holding a “Texas Hold’em” at the Club, 20 Boynton Road, on Friday, March 13. Play starts promptly at 7:30 p.m. This is to benefit the Youth Fishing Derby that will be held April 25. Refreshments are available. HAM DINNER FUNDRAISER sponsored by the Friends of the North Brookfield COA on Saturday, March 14 at 6 p.m. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children age 10 and under. Takeout is available. For tickets, call the North Brookfield Senior Center at 508-867-0220. LATE WINTER BARN DANCE AND POTLUCK benefit for the East Quabbin Land Trust will be held Saturday, March 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the West Brookfield Town Hall. $10/person or $20/family. Live music, live calling, all dances taught. Pot luck – bring a dish to share. VILLAGE TOASTMASTERS invites guests to its Speech and Table Topics contest to meet members, watch and take part in the event Thursday, March 19 from 7 to 8:15 p.m. at Southbridge Savings Bank Community Room, 200 Charlton Rd (Rt. 20) in Sturbridge. NORTH BROOKFIELD SPORTSMEN’S CLUB will be holding a “Texas Hold’em” at the club, 20 Boynton Road, on Friday, March 20 promptly at 7:30 p.m. This is to benefit the Youth Fishing Derby that will be held on April 25. Refreshments are available. TEAM TRIVIA NIGHT will be held Saturday, March 21 at 6 p.m. at the Warren Senior Center. Admission is $10 per person, which includes pizza. Beer/wine cash bar available. Sponsored by the West Warren Public Library. Call 413-436-9892 for more information or to reserve a team table (max 10 per table). THE LASHAWAY SENIORS will hold their Spring Fling Banquet at the Publick House in Sturbridge on Thursday, April 2 at 11 a.m. There will be three meal choices and the cost will be $15 for members, $24 for non-members. Tickets or information will be available at the March meetings or by calling Joan at 508-885-5103. ONGOING Do you want to obtain quality teen leadership skills? Do you want to learn how to survive in the wild, canoe and navigate local rivers or hike through the woods with no compass? If you said yes to any of these questions, then Troop 142 in Warren is the place to go. They teach valuable leadership skills and help young boys become valuable citizens and leaders in today’s world. If you are interested in becoming a Boy Scout, feel free to email Eric Ciborowski, Jr. at [email protected]. THE STURBRIDGE FIT CLUB WALKS every Saturday morning at 8 a.m. starting on the town common. Contact Rec. Department Director Lynne Girouard at 508-347-2041 for more info. ONE FREE TRIAL DRUM SET LESSON AT PROFESSIONAL HARDWICK-BASED MUSIC STUDIO for all ages and ability levels. Call Tim at 508-867-3784 for more information. Knitters of all ages and abilities are invited to join a new, ongoing knitting circle at the Warren Public Library. The group will meet on Thursdays from 4-6 p.m. Stop by for a while or stay the whole time. A knitting circle is a great place to relax, create and chat with fellow knitters and to share favorite tips and tricks. Basic materials and instruction will be provided to beginning knitters. The local Salvation Army service unit offers support to families in the Ware/Warren area. Services include helping families find information on utility shut offs, food/clothing referrals, and fuel assistance. If you are in need of information and would like to make an appointment, call 413-277-5432. A Caregiver Support Group, for individuals caring for adults, will meet from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the Sturbridge Senior Center. Newcomers are welcome. For more information, call Barbara at 508-347-7575. The Sturbridge Council on Aging is now running a monthly caregiver support group for individuals who care for adults. For additional information about the caregiver support group, contact Barbara at 508-347-7575. WARREN PUBLIC LIBRARY hosts Parent-Child Story Hour every Tuesday at 2 p.m. Stories, finger play, music, and arts and crafts. Geared to children age 2-5 years, siblings welcome. Every Wednesday, the library offers a Knitting Circle from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All abilities welcome. Bring yarn, needles and a project to work on. Stop by to have some fun, socialize, and share tips and tricks with fellow knitters. The Clowning For Kidz Foundation is seeking individuals and businesses interested in sponsoring a decorative balloon on their clown bus. For a $50 tax deductable donation the balloon will feature the sponsor’s name and contact information prominently displayed and seen by thousands of event spectators across New England. For more information, please contact Jim Allard at 413-454-7234. Holy Protection Orthodox Chapel will be hosting a regular “Inquirer’s Night” where visitors may listen to a short introduction to the ancient faith of Orthodox Christianity and ask any questions that they may have. Come to the Chapel, located at 280 New Braintree Road in West Brookfield, on Fridays at 7 p.m. The Inquirer’s session is preceded by the service of Vespers, to which everyone is also invited. In addition, all are welcome to attend our Sunday service, the Divine Liturgy, at 9:30 a.m. on Sundays. The Chapel is a mission of St. George Orthodox Cathedral in Worcester. For more information please call Father Walter Smith at 617-932-9726, or Paulette Masterjohn at 774-253-6835. The North Brookfield Sports Booster Club is looking for new blood. If you’d like to help in any way, at any time, no long-term commitment necessary, please let them know. You can send an email to [email protected]. All are welcome. Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion. THEY ALSO ADVERTISE Reach your local buyers by calling your community newspaper today! Your Ad Rep is Jacky Perrot 413-967-3505 CURRENT A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 Quaboag Current/Town Common Obituary Policy Turley Publications offers two types of obituaries. One is a free, brief Death Notice listing the name of deceased, date of death and funeral date and place. The other is a Paid Obituary, costing $50, which allows families to publish extended death notice information of their own choice and may include a photograph. Death Notices & Paid Obituaries should be submitted through a funeral home to: [email protected]. Exceptions will be made only when the family provides a death certificate and must be pre-paid. Our advertisers make this publication possible. Let them know you saw their ad in the Quaboag Current Nomination papers now available NEW BRAINTREE - Nomination papers are now available in the Town Clerk’s Office for the Annual Town Election to be held Monday, May 4. The following offices are on the ballot for this election: Selectman for three years, currently held by Robert Hunt; Assessor for three years, currently held by Joseph Chenevert; Assessor for one year to fill a vacancy; Board of Health for three years, currently held by Ann Borelli; Board of Health for one year to fill a vacancy; Cemetery Commissioner for three years, currently held by Thomas Schofield; Constable for three years, currently held by Edward Reed; Finance Committee for three years, currently held by Renee Gregoire; Library Trustee for three years (2 seats), currently held by Kathleen Davis Brown and Christine Maio; Planning Board for five years, currently held by Paul LaRoche. The nomination papers must be submitted for certification by Monday, March 16 at 5 p.m. The last day and time to register to vote for the election will be Tuesday, April 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 8 p.m. in the Town Clerk’s office. Please call the Town Clerk’s office at 508-867-2071 or email townclerk@ newbraintree.org with any questions. North Brookfield to offer adult education courses NORTH BROOKFIELD - North Brookfield Adult Education’s Spring 2015 courses will be held March 23 through May 22 (excluding the week of April 20 due to school vacation). Courses offered include estate planning, CPR, selling on eBay, writing a book, getting unstuck, guitar for beginners, line dancing, Zumba, yoga, dog obedience and knitting. All courses will be held at North Brookfield High School unless otherwise specified. For more information, contact Michelle Lamontagne, adult education program director, at 508-280-6596 or e-mail [email protected]. Shoreline Drive issues reviewed by BOS -WEST BROOKFIELDBy Jennifer Robert Quaboag Current Reporter Last Tuesday night Tom Acevedo approached the West Brookfield Board of Selectmen about a drainage issue on Shoreline Drive. Acevedo said that there was one pipe in particular that was causing a real issue and that last October some highway folks were up there to do a walk-through and address some of the problems on the road. Acevedo said that an estimate was received from Tony Woodman but the association’s concern is that the location where most of the damage is on abutted on both sides by town property and was seeing input from the board. “The field card doesn’t indicate that the town owns both,” Selectman Sarah Allen said. “One of those parcels looks to be owned by some people from Connecticut.” Regardless, even an outdated field card wouldn’t solve the problem as town counsel needs to weigh in on the possibility of an easement as well as a maintenance easement. “The road is impassable for much of the spring and there is no turnaround for an emergency vehicle,” Acevedo said. “We would be willing to give up some part of the land to make that accessible if we could do that. The main issue is safety, if something were to happen. At this point we are begging and pleading for a neighbor to plow because the road is so bad there. If we had that fixed we could have it plowed because North Brookfield Savings Bank promotes Kularski NORTH BROOKFIELD —North Brookfield Savings Bank is happy to announce the promotion of Lisa Kularski to the position of senior loan servicing representative. Kularski brings a great deal of taxation experience to her new position. She was a clerk in the Assessor’s office of the town of North Brookfield for nine years prior to coming to the bank. This experience will serve her well in her new role, where she will handle taxes for each loan, as well as interest rate changes and insurance coverage. “Working at North Brookfield Saving Bank has been a very rewarding ex- perience,” said Kularski, who previously served as a Loan Service Representative with NBSB for eight years. “I’ve strived to give the best possible customer service for my department.” In her new role as senior loan servicing representative, Kularski will maintain residential, commercial and consumer loans for the bank, overseeing procedures and servicing day-to-day loan operations. “Lisa has been a valuable member of our loan servicing team, not only for her excellent customer service skills but for her taxation expertise,” said Senior Vice President/Retail Lending Manager Don- Village Toastmasters to host Speech and Table Topics contest STURBRIDGE - Village Toastmasters invites guests to its Speech and Table Topics contest to meet members, watch and take part in the event Thursday, March 19 from 7 to 8:15 p.m. at Southbridge Savings Bank Community Room, 200 Charlton Road∆4 (Rt. 20) in Sturbridge. “Village Toastmasters provides a supportive and positive environment where members have the opportunity to develop their communication and leadership skills,” says Village Toastmasters Club President Mike Faford. In addition to the contest speeches, members and guests will enjoy a regular Toastmasters meeting that will include prepared speeches, Table Topics™ (impromptu speeches) and evaluations. For more information about this event and the club, please visit http://727120.toastmastersclubs.org/. Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of meeting locations. PAGE na Tiso. “We look forward to her assistance in expanding North Brookfield Savings Bank’s lending operations.” Kularski, who works in the Mortgage Center at NBSB’s 35 Summer St. location in North Brookfield, is also a longtime resident of North Brookfield and is a dedicated supporter of the community. She is an avid golfer who frequently plays in fundraising tournaments to benefit local causes in addition to other forms of community work. “I look forward to continuing to serve North Brookfield Savings Bank’s current and future customers with the absolute best customer service I can,” Kularski said. “My dedication to the local community is strong and I plan to continue to offer my support whenever possible.” this is the current guy’s last year.” There seems to be no discrepancy about the condition of the section of road, but the road is a private one and by right should be financially cared for by the lake association. The board agrees. “This is a private road and the town shouldn’t be taking the cost,” Chairman Barry Nadon, Jr. said. “Last time when we did something to the road we sort of took it on the chin. If this is going to town counsel, the association should be paying for the cost of looking into the matter.” Assistant to the Board of Selectmen Johanna Swain said that the she could look into the cost of research for an easement and then the association could decide if they wanted to proceed. Nadon added that there have been incidents in the past where there was supposed to be a 50/50 split of costs between the town and the association and that the town ended up paying nearly the entire amount. “I don’t want to bring an expense to the town for something that is a private issue,” Nadon said. Swain added that some of the parcels in that area might be going to auction in the near future and if so, the lake association would be free to attempt to purchase them and if they were privately owned parcels they could do whatever they wanted to them. Swain said that she would let Acevado know what the cost of research would be and the matter will be discussed again at a later date. Tag sale to benefit animals REGION- The Concerned Citizens for Animals huge tag sale is set for Friday, April 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, April 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The new location for the tag sale is the Wachogue Congregational Church, 80 Arvilla St., Springfield. Concerned Citizens for Animals offers assistance to financially needy pet owners to spay/neuter their cat or dog. CCA depends solely on donations and monies from their fund raising tag sales to provide help with these much needed medical procedures. For information to donate items, call Susan at 782-9006. All proceeds will help dogs and cats in need right here in Western Massachusetts. SKIN PROBLEM? Trust a Dermatologist! JOEL P. GORDON, M.D. Certified, American Board of Dermatology Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery 260 West Main Street, West Brookfield, MA 01585 MURDER MYSTERY DINNER THEATRE “Whodunnit?” The Making of a Reality Show! Friday, March 20, April 24, May 29 MAIN DINING ROOM Open Thursday through Sunday Thurs. & Fri. Lunch & Dinner 11:30am-9pm Saturday (Dinner) 5-9pm Sunday (Dinner) 12noon-8pm HEXMARK TAVERN Skin Cancer, Moles and Other Skin Growths, Acne, Warts, Rashes OPEN THURSDAY & FRIDAY 4-9 85 South St., Ware • (413) 967-2246 FIREPLACE FEAST People of All Ages Read Newpapers Live Entertainment every Friday ON VACATION March 23-April 1 NOW THROUGH APRIL Horsedrawn Sleigh/Wagon Ride, Hot Mulled Wine or Cider, New England Chowder, Fireplace Roasted Prime Rib, Deep Dish Apple Pie Check our website for further information www.salemcrossinn.com (508) 867-2345 PAGE A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 - opinion - editorial The Chamber Choice is yours T hose in our communities who were riveted to the presentation of the Oscars on Sunday will be pleased to know that the Quaboag Hills have their own red carpet event. It will be for those who may not be seen on the screen but have definitely written the script for the communities in which they live and work. Of course, we’re talking about the 2015 Citizen, Business and Teacher of the Year who will be recognized at the Chamber Choice Awards, put on by the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce. The awards program, a true celebration of volunteerism and involvement, will be held once again this year on Saturday, April 25 at the Cultural Center at Eagle Hill in Hardwick. This event has all the dressings of a Hollywood-style program, with video screens honoring the deeds of nominees as well as joyful (and at times tearful) proclamations at the podium. We share the enthusiasm of Lenny Weake, president of the Chamber, and Patty Clark, director of member services, who know that there are many in the towns of Belchertown, Brimfield, Brookfield, East Brookfield, Hardwick, Holland, Monson, New Braintree, North Brookfield, Palmer, Spencer, Wales, Ware, Warren and West Brookfield who make our hometowns – and, indeed, our region – special. And so we ask our readers to take the time to nominate these most deserving folks for the above awards and encourage their friends and neighbors to do the same. The committee reviewing nominations indicate that those that rise to the top have substantial explanation and documentation, showing on paper what those in the town spend many untold hours doing. Nominees from past years who have not been selected remain eligible for consideration. Past Citizens of the Year include organizers of community events in Palmer, Ware, Belchertown and the Brookfields, and those who have a hand in many different activities, churches and civic organizations. Businesses of the Year have not only thrived in the Quaboag Hills region but have also stepped up to donate their time, energy and resources to the cause of making their town a place to be proud of. Oftentimes, they have done so not expecting or desiring any recognition – but that is precisely why they deserve it. And that doesn’t even address the Teacher of the Year. We put out a special appeal to those parents and students within the above towns who see the quiet efforts of teachers who have truly made their schools their lives, both within and without their classroom, often sacrificing their family time after hours or on weekends. Forms are available by calling the Chamber office in Palmer at 413-283-2418 or emailing patty@qhma. com. The deadline for nomination is Monday, March 16. We don’t believe it’s too much to ask for us to acknowledge those who have worked, sweated and figuratively fought to make us proud to boast that we live in the Quaboag Hills Region. The Necessity of Forgiveness T he last of the preparatory Sundays in the ing out to ask forgiveness. I was moved by this letter, Orthodox Church is the Sunday of Forgive- and I wrote him back right away to thank him for writness. This is the Sunday that we call ing and to give him my forgiveness. I had to mind the expulsion of our first parents all but forgotten what had been done, but it from paradise and the Icon of this day dewould have been wrong of me to withhold picts Adam and Eve sitting outside of the the forgiveness he was seeking. closed doors of paradise weeping for what I have said that forgiveness is necessary they have lost. This is a stark reminder to for our spiritual life. The granting of forus, as we being this holy period of Lent, giveness is less about the person that we are just how important forgiveness is in our forgiving and more about us and our spirilives. Shepherd tual lives. When we withhold forgiveness we The Gospel for this Sunday is taken of Souls do more harm to ourselves than we do to from the 6th chapter of St. Matthew and the one who has harmed us, in fact by withBy begins with these words, “If you forgive holding forgiveness we are actually giving Fr. Peter-Michael Preble men their trespasses, your heavenly Father the power over to the one who has hurt us. also will forgive you, but if you do not forWithholding forgiveness harms our spiritual give men their trespasses, neither will your life and in a way separates us from God. Father forgive your trespasses.” Jesus is reminding Holding back forgiveness harms us in a spiritual those who are listening that if we hold back for- way by keeping the hurt alive in our minds and our giveness our Heavenly Father will also withhold spirits. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting what has forgiveness. As we say in the Our Father, forgive happened, but it is the start of the healing process for us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass us. Whether the person accepts the forgiveness or even against us. These are not just words but a reminder if they admit they were wrong, we have to forgive. of the necessity of forgiveness. See FORGIVE I PAGE 5 A few years ago, I received a letter in the mail from a classmate from junior high school asking for forgiveness. During those years, he was kind of a bully not only to me but others in my class. He had fallen on some difficult times and was progressing through the steps of treatment for substance abuse. One of the steps is to make amends with people that you have harmed in the past, so he was reach- OPINION PAGE/ LETTERS POLICY PHONE 413.967.3505 Fax: 413.967.6009 Letter to the Editor EMAIL Snellville School to hold reunion To the Editor: Call to former students: If you ever attended the Snellville School in the Town of Sturbridge, this is a call to you. At the request of the Senior Center Director, Melissa Beauchemin, there are plans being made for a reunion of former students of the Snellville School. Presently we are looking to hold it in September of this year, 2015. The Senior Center now occupies the schoolhouse. What do we need? A note or call from you to say you would like to attend. We have some addresses from a reunion of third and fourth graders in 1939 that took place in 1982. Many of our friends have passed on but we also know many of you are still in the area or know “kids” that have moved away but you may have their addresses. We need these addresses so that we may invite them to come home for a day. No parade, no big celebration, just a time to meet and greet friends from way back when. Old photographs of some of you will be displayed. At least 1st grade pictures taken in 1939. Hopefully others will be brought. Hear stories and historic facts about the school itself. Water cups shared by boys and girls as a token of their friendship. Home plate was part of a ledge. Bunny in the hole. No cleansies. Jump rope. The school bell. Air raid practice. The walk was a goal line. Fiskdale Brass Band and lots more. Send your letter or call Senior Center Director Melissa Beauchemin at 508-347-7575 or email [email protected]. This will be fun. Thank you, Robert (Bobby, back then) Briere Advertising Sales Jack Haesaert [email protected] Tim Mara [email protected] Advertising Support Jeanne Bonsall [email protected] Editor [email protected] WEB www.quaboagcurrent.com www.tantasquatowncommon.com @QuaboagCurrent TownCommonNewspapers The Quaboag Current and Town Common newspapers are published by Turley Publications, Inc. • www.turley.com L etters to the editor should be 250 words or less in length, and guest columns between 500 and 800 words. No unsigned or anonymous opinions will be published. We require that the person submitting the opinion also include his or her town of residence and home telephone number. We authenticate authorship prior to publication. We reserve the right to edit or withhold any submissions deemed to be libelous, unsubstantiated allegations, personal attacks, or defamation of character. Send opinions to: Letters to the Editor, 80 Main Street, Ware, MA 01082 OR e-mail to [email protected]. Deadline for submission is Monday at noon for the following week’s edition. A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 I Cabin fever, anyone? have held up fairly well, of hand tools! This poor flower through all of this. You has been my bright spot - and I know, the overabundance of know if you are reading, you get snow. Now I have had it. I want it. They smell great, look beautispring. My boss keeps ful and symbolize to me saying that we just have that hope springs eternal in the to get through February, - just find a place to sink “the longest short month GaRden your roots and you will of the year.” Well, we are bloom again. almost there. Here are We are three weeks a few things that I have to a month away from been doing to ease the being able to start topain, if you will. matoes and peppers Roberta McQuaid I took my own advice indoors, marigolds and Turley Publications Columnist a few months back and zinnias too. I have sown prepped some hyacinths a few seeds of early-tofor forcing. Well, not exstart flowers at work. actly. What I had were bulbs that Petunias, salvia and coleus are I moved out of one garden area all up and growing. On the home last spring that were forgotten front I am itchy, so itchy that I about in my mudroom. I found keep sowing onions seeds. I have them in December, in a bucket. had such great luck with growing By then it was too late to plant onions in the garden the last few them in the ground, so I gathered years that I did want to expand every small glass and vase I had my collection and add more vaand put them on water. Grateful- rieties, but this is bordering on ly, there has been at least one in ridiculous. I sowed two flats of bloom for the last month. If I had year old seed of my old stand-bys a garden full of flowers I venture ‘Ailsa Craig’ and ‘Red Wing’- to to guess that I’d maybe give them see if it would come up. It did, a sniff, reflect for a second and but rather spottily, so I sowed anthen move on. Right now, these other flat, just in case. I planted a babies are all I have, and boy am I larger flat of two heirloom varigrateful. In fact, the kids wanted eties- ‘White Portugal’ and ‘Red to “make art” over school vaca- Wethersfield’- left from last years tion week. While they are young seed sales program to see if they enough to paint gardens from would come up. They did. Then their minds, I need a model. So my friend offered up seeds for I painted the hyacinth. Not too ‘Copra,’ a good storage onion. shabby for someone who is more Boy, did they germinate well. As comfortable with different sort I stand with a packet of trial on- FORGIVE I FROM PAGE 4 I was recently asked a question about justice and forgiveness. Spiritually forgiveness one, our part, has nothing to do with justice. The healing process may be tied to the meeting out of justice if that is what the law requires, but forgiveness needs to be given for healing to begin. Last week, the news brought us a report of 21 Christians in Libya being martyred by radical Islam. They were martyred for no other reason than they were Christians. They were all members of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The Church has canonized them as martyrs of the faith and in a statement one of the bishops of the Coptic Church said that he has forgiven those who have done this because he is a Christian and has no other option, and neither do we! At the start of every Liturgy in the Orthodox Church, we say, “In peace, let us pray to the Lord.” We are seeking peace with God but also with humanity. It has been said that if we come to Liturgy, holding anything against another, we should leave, go make amends and return so that our sacrifice will be pure. If we are not reconciled to our fellow man, we cannot hope to be able to pray without distractions. We have begun the 40-day period of preparation for the great feast of the Resurrection. This time has been set aside for us to work on our spirituality. This is the time for us to be intentional about getting our spiritual life back on track if we need to but even if we don’t we need to remember that forgiveness is essential and if we have been holding it back we need to give it. Fr. Peter-Michael Preble is the pastor of St. Michael Orthodox Church in Southbridge Massachusetts and blogs at www.shepherdofsouls.com. Follow Fr. Peter on Twitter @frpeterpreble PEOPLE/MILESTONE NEWS As a free service for our readers, we will print all births, weddings, engagements, milestone anniversaries, major birthdays, military achievements, honors and awards. We have a “people news” form available for you to submit these listings. This material is provided to us by our readers and local institutions and we do not charge to print this content. For more information, or to submit people or milestone news for the Quaboag Current/The Town Common, please email [email protected]. ion seeds that go by the mouthful ‘Rossa Lunga di Firenze’ in my hand, I know I have to put them down and walk away. Who could possibly eat that many onions? I have been knee-deep researching heirloom roses for OSV’s newsletter. Back at the old house we had three varieties that I loved dearly: The Apothecary’s Rose, Rosa Mundi and Rosa rubrifolia. One rose that was not part of my collection but will be some day is ‘Harison’s Yellow.’ In early June five to six foot arching canes are covered, just covered in yellow blossoms. A healthy plant is a sight to behold. Like many old-fashioned roses, it blooms just once, and unfortunately is rather thorny as far as roses go, but is well worth the inconvenience of wearing gloves to prune it. I found it interesting to learn that pioneer brides took cuttings of the rose with them as mementos from home on their journey westward. They kept them alive during the long trip in raw potatoes and damp cloths. Because of their tenacity (and the rose’s!), Harison’s Yellow runs wild the length of the Oregon Trail. After rereading the above paragraph I start to feel better about our plight. And too, I realized that growing plants and flowers have always made those of us so inclined feel better in a crummy situation. Ham dinner fundraiser to be held March 14 NORTH BROOKFIELD - The Friends of the North Brookfield COA are sponsoring a Ham Dinner fundraiser to be held on Saturday, March 14 at 6 p.m. Mashed potatoes, homemade raisin sauce, vegetables, beverages, and assorted desserts will also be served. There will also be a 50/50 raffle. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children age 10 and under. Takeout is available. For tickets, call the North Brookfield Senior Center Mondays through Fridays at 508-867-0220. WANTED TO BUY • Old Ammo • Firearms • Sporting & Military Discreet Appraisals Call 413-436-5885 Choose Balin Eye for All Your Eye Care Needs Nancy A. Balin, MD, FACS Nancy A. Balin, MD, FACS Kani Brown, OD Kani Brown, OD Ryan Gady, OD Balin Eye & Laser Center 85 South Street Ware Student Achievers AMHERST – Dean of Students Enku Gelaye has announced the names of students who qualified for Dean’s List for the 2014 fall semester at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. In order to qualify, an undergraduate student must receive a 3.5 grade-point average or better on a four-point scale. Below is a list of local students who were named to the University of Massachusetts Amherst Dean’s List. BRIMFIELD: Alexander Carter Hellyar, Erin Margaret Riel, Jason Thomas Girouard, Kaylyn Blair, Kenneth Gerard Bernier, Patrick Andrew Riel *** BROOKFIELD: Jessica Sophie Magnuson, Michael Christopher Macpherson, Shaelin Rose Keville *** EAST BROOKFIELD: Annie A. Sandoli *** HOLLAND: Brooke Dorothy Jean Andrew, John R Barrett, Rachel Elizabeth Keller, Stephen Daniel Converse Margelony-Lajoie *** NORTH BROOKFIELD: Bryden Louise Moore, Clayton James Beaudoin, Michael P Dailing *** STURBRIDGE: Amanda Merrifield, Blake Andrew Rowe, Caitlyn M Griffin, Jessica Leigh-Ann Morris, Kelsea Marie Biondolillo, Kourtney Elizabeth Mantyla, William Jesse Jones *** WEST BROOKFIELD: Allison Katie Korzec, Ariana Frances Andrewes, Emily Catherine King, Emily Tuesday Devos, Emma Joy Belling, Jordan Lira Loughlin, Paige Elizabeth Guzik, Ryan Alan Spencer NBSB to host annual Homebuyers Night WARE - Each year as home buying season gets underway, North Brookfield Savings Bank’s Homebuyers Night aims to help homebuyers gain the knowledge they need for success. This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, March 19 from 6-8 p.m. at the bank’s Ware branch, 40 Main Street (Route 9) in Ware. Hosted by Senior Vice President, Retail Lending Manager Donna Tiso, the event features local experts Christine Buzzell of Buzzell & Granat, Attorneys at Law, and Michelle Terry of Quaboag Valley Real Estate. Buzzell will discuss purchase and sale agreements and closings, while Terry will lead a discussion about the current home market in Central Massachusetts. The bank will serve a light dinner and refreshments, and attendees will receive a valuable coupon and a chance to win a $200 gift card. RSVP by calling the bank’s Loan Department at 508-867-1302, by visiting any branch location or by registering online at NorthBrookfieldSavingsBank. com. Kubota Rentals AMHERST/OAKHAM AUTO RECYCLING, INC. USED AUTO PARTS *91 Day Guarantee* ] Junk Car Removal r Free Parts, Locating Service SAVE BIG! i q SAVE 50% OVER RETAIL at Coldbrook Road Off 122 In Oakham 882-5241 1-800-992-0441 Routine Eye Exams No Stitch Cataract Surgery: Multifocal lens implants available. Glaucoma: Diagnosis and treatment. Laser Vision Correction Diabetes Call 413-967-6211 or visit BALINEYE.COM PAGE PARK SAW SHOP LOGGING • ARBORIST • SAFETY 1-800-232-6132 (413) 283-2939 Mon-Fri 6am-5pm • Sat 7am-Noon Shipping Can Be Arranged RENTALS AVAILABLE 1292 PARK ST. PALMER, MA 01069 p [ Wales Irish Pub Music 8pm-12am F R I D A Y, F E B R U A R Y 27 T H • 8 P M -12 A M “MOOSE AND THE HIGH TOPS” F R I D A Y, M A RC H 6 T H • 8 P M -12 A M “COOPER JONES” S A T U RD A Y, M A RC H 21 S T • 8 P M -12 A M “THE KINGS” St. Patrick’s Day Party CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK! 413-245-9730 16 Holland Road, Wales, MA PAGE A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 - public safety Police Logs RIVER WATCH Drainage area: 150 mi2 Discharge: 464.29 cfs Date: 2015-02-22 Percentile: 87% Class symbol: Light blue % normal (median): 192% % normal (mean): 166% Editor’s Note: “River Watch” tracks data provided by the US Geological Survey examining the Quaboag Current flow and flood records taken from a testing station in Brimfield over the past seven days. This information is provided to help fisherman, boaters, and residential abutters understand their local tributaries better. For more current daily data and more details, visit http:// waterwatch.usgs.gov/. Brookfield Police Log KEY: Drainage area: Also known as watershed area. The area of land that contributes water to a stream either as surface runoff or groundwater flow; usually measured as square miles. Discharge: Also known as streamflow. The volume of water moving in a stream at any point in time; usually measured as cubic feet per second. Stage: The water level of a stream compared to a fixed reference point at the location where the measurement is made; usually measured as feet. Water level measurements are always made at the same location so that comparisons can be made over time. Stage is not depth of water, because depth can vary significantly across a stream and upstream or downstream, but a higher stage means deeper water, and a lower stage means shallower water. Some streams have an official flood stage designated by the National Weather Service, which is the level at which flooding will begin to occur. Date: The date and time of the most recent update of the data map. When more than one data Turley Publications staff photo by Colleen Montague location is shown on a map, the most recent update time for individual locations may be up to an hour earlier than the update time for the map. Percentile: Compares the most recent value of streamflow to the historical observations for the day. For example, if the most recent value is at the 25th percentile, it means that historically the streamflow for the day has been at or less than this level 25 percent of the time, or on average 1 day out of every 4. If the most recent value is at the 75th percentile, it means that historically the streamflow for the day has been at or less than this level 75 percent of the time, or on average 3 days out of every 4. Conversely, at the 75th percentile it could also be said that the streamflow for the day has been at or higher than this level 25 percent of the time, or on average 1 day out of every 4. At the 50th percentile, there have been an equal number of historical observations higher and lower, and the 50th percentile is often referred to as the “normal”. However, hydrologists consider percentiles between 25 and 75 to be relatively normal and within expected natural ups and downs, with less than 25 being unusually dry conditions and higher than 75 being unusually wet conditions. Class symbol: Groups current water conditions into general categories of wet or dry compared to historical observations using percentiles of daily streamflow. Green indicates relatively normal conditions; “warm” colors yellow, orange, and red indicate drier than normal conditions; and “cool” colors light blue, blue, and black indicate wetter than normal conditions. Red and black indicate that new low or high streamflow records have been set for the day. Training for real estate sales and broker’s exam CLUES ACROSS 1. Centralized mailing compartment 4. Small argument 8. Latin for “hail” 9. Semicircular headdress 10. Hole plug 12. Primp 13. A spontaneous motivation 14. Don’t know when yet 16. Portable computer screen material 17. Conform 19. Yoruba 20. Wings 21. Tar Hill State 25. Hard, durable wood 26. Pallid 27. Pabir language 29. Not crazy Editor’s Note: People in this country are presumed to be innocent until found guilty in a court of law. Police provide us with the information you read on this page a public information. If you or any suspect listed here is found not guilty or has charges dropped or reduced, we will gladly print that information as a followup upon being presented with documented proof of the court’s final disposition. 30. Word element meaning ear 31. Hill (Celtic) 32. “Dangerous Liaisons” actor 39. Space between 2 points 41. Arbitrageur 42. 3rd or 4th Islamic month 43. Assistance 44. Manuscripts (abbr.) 45. In a way, soaks 46. Synovial knee syndrome 48. 2nd cervical vertebra 49. State of sudden fright 50. Snakelike fish 51. Each of 4 Hindu ages 52. Point midway between S and SE CLUES DOWN 1. Relating to New Guinea 2. Carry to excess 3. Alms solicitor 4. Title of respect 5. Spanish saffron dish 6. Betel palm genus 7. Petter ____, Nordic combined skier 9. Yearly tonnage (abbr.) 11. Clan division 14. Referee declares 15. Rampart 18. “Big” actor’s initials 19. Noah’s boat 20. Diarist __ Frank 22. Luminous celestial ring ANSWERS ON PAGE 12 23. Famous motor club 24. 007’s creator 27. A timely blessing 28. UTHealth (abbr.) 29. Roman Helios 31. Check 32. Making of a worn-out vicious horse 33. Wife 34. An alternative 35. Spanish unit of length 36. Wild goats 37. Municipalities 38. Bother or harass 39. Excessively sentimental 40. Middle Eastern dish 44. Waterproof raincoat 47. Former OSS SPRINGFIELD - Springfield Technical Community College’s Workforce Development office will offer “Preparing for the Real Estate Sales and Broker’s Exam,” a stateapproved course for those interested in becoming licensed real estate salespersons or brokers. This course is designed to acquaint the prospective real estate salesperson as well as the potential buyer or seller of a home or investment property with the fundamentals of real estate law and procedures for Massachusetts. This program starts on Thursday, April 2 and will meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Space is limited in all programs and individuals should go to www.stcc.edu/wd or call the Workforce Development office at 413-755-4502 to register. Trip to Fenway REGION - On Friday, April 17, the Melha Directors will sponsor a bus trip to Fenway Park in Boston to see the Boston Red Sox play the Baltimore Orioles. The game time is 7:10 p.m. The ticket price of $120 per person gives you a seat in Section 23, as well at the bus and bagged lunch with beverages. The bus leaves 133 Longhill St. in Springfield at 4 p.m. and the Big Y in Palmer at 4:30 p.m. For more information, contact Vince at 413-668-8136. Visit us at www. turley .com Between Feb. 16-23 Brookfield police made one arrest. Sean L. Ayer of 6 Woodland Drive Apartment B, Spencer, MA was arrested on two warrants. Police made 34 motor vehicle stops, eight building and property checks, one welfare check, performed traffic control once, served three summonses, and assisted one citizen. They responded to three complaints, one safety hazard, one medical emergency, one animal call, one disabled motor vehicle, one fire alarm, one report of suspicious activity, one parking violation, one abandoned motor vehicle, and one alarm. Four officers were initiated. There were 13 911 calls. Eight were for medical emergencies, two were for motor vehicle accidents, one was for a safety hazard, one was for suspicious activity, and one was for assisting a citizen. Brookfield police assisted three other agencies. East Brookfield Police Log Between Feb. 16-23 East Brookfield police made 16 motor vehicle stops, eight building and property checks, two motor vehicle investigations, one welfare check, served one summons, served papers once, performed harassment prevention once, and assisted four citizens. Police responded to four disabled motor vehicles, one medical emergency, three safety hazards, one report of property damage, one animal call, three alarms, one complaint, one parking violation, one complaint of motor vehicle operations, and one report of gun shots. One officer was initiated. There were six 911 calls. Four were for medical emergencies, one was for a motor vehicle accident, and one was for a safety hazard. New Braintree Police Log Between Feb. 16-23 New Braintree police made 23 building and property checks, two motor vehicle stops, three motor vehicle investigations, and served one summons. Police responded to one motor vehicle accident, one report of fraud, one complaint of motor vehicle operations, and one safety hazard. One officer was initiated. West Brookfield Police Log Last week the West Brookfield Police Department made eight motor vehicle stops, responded to two motor vehicle accidents and responded to 14 general calls for service. There were three summons served, one report of illegal burning and three motor vehicle investigations initiated. There were 18 911 calls. Eleven were for medical emergencies, one was for a lockout, one was for a fire, one was for a motor vehicle accident, one was for suspicious activity, one was for a carbon monoxide alarm, one was for erratic motor vehicle operations and one was for a complaint. The department assisted another agency on one occasion. A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 PAGE Rabies clinics scheduled Berthiaume appointed to committees REGION - Annual Rabies Clinics have been scheduled for the towns below. Please note that you need not be a resident of any of these towns to attend any clinic. Owners are requested to provide the previous rabies certificate when they attend so that the information about the owner, the current rabies vaccination information and the information about the dog is available for the personnel who will be at the clinic. All dogs must be on a leash and cats must be in animal carriers. The town of Ware Rabies Clinic has been scheduled for Saturday, March 7 at the DPW Barn on Mechanic St. from 9 to 11 a.m. The fee for the clinic BOSTON - House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) is pleased to announce that he has appointed Representative Donnie Berthiaume (R-Spencer) to several key legislative committees for the 2015-2016 session. Berthiaume has been named the ranking minority member on the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, and Agriculture. “This assignment is one of the best possible fits for my district due in part to the Quabbin Reservoir and the many working farms we have here,” Berthiaume said. Berthiaume was also appointed to the Joint Committee on Veterans and is $14. The town of Warren Rabies Clinic has been scheduled for Saturday, March 14 at the DPW Barn on Rt. 19 in Warren from 9 to 11 a.m. The fee for the clinic is $14. The town of Hardwick Rabies Clinic has been scheduled for Saturday, March 21 at the ambulance garage on Lower Road in Gilbertville from 9 to 11 a.m. The fee for this clinic is $15. The town of West Brookfield Rabies Clinic has been scheduled for Saturday, March 21 at the Highway Garage at 15 Front St. The fee for this clinic is $13. Checks may be made payable to VCA Wickaboag and cash is acceptable. health YOUR Tim Murphy, RDO Lic. #1334 “The Finest Quality at Reasonable Prices” The Most Advanced Lens Designs Available Frames to Fit Any Budget • Large Selection of Designer Frames SUNGLASSES Maui Jim • Ray Ban • Bollé • Serengeti • Distributor of Bushnell Optics binoculars, range finders and telescopes. Also a distributor of AO Industrial Safety OSHA Approved Eyewear. 1504 N. Main Street, Palmer 362 Sewall Street, Ludlow 283-2033 589-1806 Federal Affairs. “As a six year naval veteran, I am pleased that I will be able to work on veterans affairs for all those residents who served proudly in our military,” he said. The representative was also appointed to the House Committee on Personnel and Administration. Representative Berthiaume represents the 5th District Worcester, which consists of the towns of Barre, Brookfield, East Brookfield, Hardwick, Hubbardston, New Braintree, North Brookfield, Oakham, Spencer, West Brookfield, and Ware. He is currently serving his first term in the Massachusetts Legislature. wellness CONNECTION DHILLON FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY Implants From Start to Finish • Invisalign Crowns • Root Canals • Extractions • Veneers WHITENING 20% OFF WITH MENTION OF THIS AD. OFFER ENDS JULY 31, 2015. We are happy to announce we are now participating with Massachusetts Public Employees and Medicare PPO Dental Insurance Plans at the request of our patients. 173 West Street, Ware, MA • 413-967-7140 • dhillonfamilydental.com Wickaboag Family Chiropractic Dr. Linda K. Schaetzke Practicing For Over 23 Years IMPROVING YOUR HEALTH! • Adult and Pediatric Care • Most Major Health Insurance Accepted • Flexible Hours to Accommodate Your Schedule EMERGENCY CARE AVAILABLE OFFICE HOURS BY APPOINTMENT Phone: 508-867-6161 • FAX: 508-867-1961 143 West Main St., West Brookfield YOUR ad COULD BE HERE! Call Jacky Perrot at 413-967-3505 or Tim Mara at 978-355-4000 Always Compassionate, Friendly, Knowledgeable, Professional Care! • Brand Name Glasses • Contacts • Sunglasses 40 East Main Street, Suite 5, Ware 413-967-6681 or 413-967-5871 Dr. Thomas Schultz OPTOMETRIST [email protected] – B R O U G H T TO YO U BY T U R L E Y P U B L I C AT I O N S, I N C. – PAGE A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 Knitting group a ‘purl’ of enjoyment THE QUABOAG CURRENT is a weekly newspaper published e v e r y Fr i d a y b y Tu r l e y Publications, Inc. with offices located at 24 Water Street, Palmer, MA 01069. Telephone at 413-283-8393 or fax at 413-289-1977. Periodical postage pending at Palmer, MA and additional mailing offices. -WARRENBy Jennifer Robert Quaboag Current Reporter A ball of yarn, a set of needles and a book that reads something like “k1, k2tog, yo, k1, yo, ssk” is a little - or more likely, a lot - intimidating to some. In generations past the art of knitting was often passed down from older family members beginning at a young age, often out of necessity. While there is no longer a need for people to learn how to knit, it can be a very enjoyable pastime and Kim Kvarcein, librarian at the Warren Public Library and leader of a newly re-formed knitting circle, says that the benefits of knitting can be vast. “I just learned how to knit a few years ago and it is so rewarding,” she said. “I want to share that with others. I think that a lot of people don’t start knitting because they are intimidated but really it is just a couple of sticks and a piece of string. If something doesn’t work, you take it apart and try again. It’s easier than you think.” Several years back there was an early morning knitting group at the library and that is where Kvaracein learned to knit. The group eventually moved to a new location and after a period of time with no knitting circle at the library, Kvaracein decided to get one going again, at a time that would be accessible for the most people. Now the group meets on Thursday afternoons from 4 to 6 DANCE I FROM PAGE 1 be the caller and will be calling the steps live, accompanied by live music. The night should be great fun, Henshaw said, and will be something that is a little different from past events. The idea came about because the land trust shifted their annual meeting dinner to the end of June, and the administration was looking for a way to give people a chance to get together and socialize without it being an intensive planning session. The land trust held a Contra dance after the Hardwick Fair a few RAVEN I FROM PAGE 1 shifter on the inside. “This time I was more confident in my writing abilities, and knew that I wanted to stay true to the characters,” Boucher said. “Deciding to self-publish gave me a lot more creative leeway. Hiring my own editor, who worked with me every step of the way, really helped make the book ten steps above Hunting the Moon.” Boucher said that she was a street team, Writing Without Pants, on Facebook that consists of herself and three other authors, one of whom is also the managing editor for Limitless Books. With the editorial advice of Lori Whitwam, Boucher said that the best of her was really brought out in this book. Getting to the editorial stage was not without chal- POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to: Turley Publications, Inc., 24 Water Street, Palmer, MA 01069. PATRICK H. TURLEY CEO KEITH TURLEY President DOUGLAS L. TURLEY Vice President Quaboag Current photos by Jennifer Robert An up-close shot of a current project by a group member. p.m., although there is no commitment to stay for the entire time required. Kvaracein said that the group is very informal and flexible and that people are welcome to join in for as long as they like. Unsure a about knitting? Wondering if your technique is good enough? Don’t fear, the group is just as much to teach people to knit as it is to share tips and techniques. “I’ve been coming here about three or four weeks now and right now I am working on a hat and about to learn how to decrease rows,” new knitter Kay Caruso said. “I had been wanting to learn for a while and I heard about this group from someone at church and thought I would check it out. I’m having a blast.” years back and it was successful so they decided to give this a shot in West Brookfield. “This is a great chance to have a good time, share some good food and bring the whole family along,” Henshaw said. In addition to the dance there will be a pot luck dinner and those attending are asked to bring a favorite dish to share. There is no advanced ticket purchase required; a suggested donation of $10 per person with a maximum of $20 per family is payable at the door. Funds raised by the EQLT go to benefit conservation efforts lenges for Boucher, despite her dedication to her work as an author. “The biggest challenge for me is always finding time to write,” Boucher said. “I went back to a day job, moved and helped my son through some changes while writing, this so it was a lot of late night writing sessions and living on little sleep.” Despite the challenges, Boucher is doing it. Aside from being ready to release this second book in The Moon series, she has also released an eBook, Panel 35, and a novella, The Shadow Soldier, since Hunting the Moon was released. Proceeds from the latter are being donated to the Wounded Warrior Project, in memory of Boucher’s son’s friend Keely Walsh who was killed in a car accident in December on her New knitter or not, everyone who attends is open to asking and answering questions. The growing group is all about providing encouragement to knitters of all levels and welcomes crocheters as well. There are also some beginning supplies available for people who want to give it a try and have no idea what needles or yarn to buy. “We always do a little show and tell at the beginning so that everyone can see what we are working on,” Kvaracein said. “I have learned so much from knitting and one of the big parts of this is sharing-sharing what we are working on and sharing what we know. I hope to see it continue to grow.” in surrounding towns including Barre, Petersham, Hardwick, New Braintree, North Brookfield and West Brookfield. The recently acquired Pychon Grist Mill property in West Brookfield was recently visited by the trust, along with friends of the trust, to being identifying various species found on the property. Donations to the trust help to make such efforts viable and help the land trust to continue its mission of protecting land. “This will be a great time for a great cause,” Henshaw said. “We hope that people come on down and have a great time.” way to National Guard drill. “Veterans and soldiers are one of the causes close to my heart,” Boucher said. “Panel 35 stands for the 35th panel at the Vietnam War Memorial and the Shadow Soldiers is about an Army ranger killed in action in Afghanistan.” Next up for Boucher is two more books, one a dystopian thriller and the other a military fiction. The third book in The Moon trilogy is also on her agenda. On Monday, March 30, when Midnight Raven is released, it will be available in both eBook and paperback formats on Amazon and Boucher is also working with local retailers to make it available for purchase locally. More information can be found on Boucher’s Facebook page “Becca Boucher Author.” Visit our website www.quaboagcurrent.com to view this paper online! Kim Kvaracein, librarian and knitting group leader, works on her current project. EDITOR [email protected] ADVERTISING SALES Jacky Haesaert, Tim Mara and Lisa Marulli SPORTS EDITOR Dave Forbes SOCIAL MEDIA @QuaboagCurrent TownCommonNewspapers WEB www.quaboagcurrent.com www.turley.com Kay Caruso works on a hat that she is making - her first one! HONOR I FROM PAGE 1 “He did everything right,” said Craig Moran, owner of Sturbridge Service Center, Inc., where St. Pierre worked. “Kevin was a great kid, one I don’t think we’ll ever be able to replace. He was punctual and very safety conscious.” The towing community is a very tight knit group of people, Moran said. “We share a common bond, and Saturday’s event was an amazing outpouring of support,” he said. The drivers, including local and state police, and school buses filled with emergency workers, came from all over New England, and even as far as Maryland, to pay tribute to St. Pierre. Kim Lowell, executive director of the Statewide Towing Association, which planned the memorial gathering, said she hopes the event will raise awareness about the Massachusetts “Move Over Law,” which requires drivers to move or slow down when Turley Publications, Inc. cannot assume liability for the loss of photographs or other materials submitted for publication. Materials will not be returned except upon specific request when submitted. emergency or maintenance vehicles are stopped at the side of the road. The law, passed in 2009, recognizes tow trucks as emergency very safety conscious. Later this year, St. Pierre’s name will be added to a granite “Wall of the Fallen” memorial at the International Towing and Recovery Museum in Chattanooga, Tenn., Lowell said. St. Pierre leaves his father and mother, Kevin J. St. Pierre, Sr. and Maura St. Pierre of Southbridge, two brothers and two sisters, and his high school sweetheart and fiancée, Gina Dougan of Brookfield. “One tow truck driver dies on duty every five days on our highways,” said Moran. “The figures are staggering and don’t even include the Department of Transportation workers and state police casualties. We hope this tragedy raises the public’s awareness about the law and their responsibilities as drivers.” NEWS & FEATURES As a paper of record, we attempt to cover all general news, personality profiles, and community features that we know about. This includes all selectmen and school committee meetings as well as spot planning board, board of health, finance, and other town meetings determined by the issue’s relevance to our readers. There are the annual major community event features that we should always cover, but we are more than open to suggestions of other features to celebrate the fabric of our communities and their many interesting occupants. Our loyal advertisers provide funding for this paid staff coverage. For more information on news or community features for the Quaboag Current/The Town Common, please email [email protected]. A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 Submissions for art exhibition due Feb. 28 PAGE Winter, one day at a time MONSON - The Monson Arts Council invites regional artists in all media to enter its 22nd annual Spring Art Exhibition and Sale. The exhibit, titled “Welcome to the World of Art” is planned for Saturdays and Sundays, April 11 through April 26 at the House of Art, 200 Main Street in Monson. Deadline for digital entries is Saturday, Feb. 28. Work may be delivered in person to the House of Art Saturday, March 14 between 9 and 11 a.m. Prospectus and online application is available at MonsonArtsCouncil.com. Artists in all media are welcome. A “Best of Show” award of $1,000 is granted and $3,300 in additional prizes are awarded in five major categories: Photography, Painting, Fiber Arts, Graphic Arts and Multi-Dimensional work. There are several other prizes. Jurors for the show are Robert Floyd, Steve Wilda and Michelle Raboin. Program on Quabbin ephemera March 1 BELCHERTOWN - The Quabbin Visitor Center will offer a program Sunday, March 1 at 2 p.m. by local author, historian and Friends of Quabbin Chairperson, J.R. Greene who will make a presentation about his newest book B. V. Brooks’ Pre-Quabbin Art, Photos and Postcards. Artist Burt Vernon Brooks was a longtime Greenwich, Mass. resident known for his evocative photographs of the Swift River Valley, but he also produced many paintings and postcards of the region. His images and art capture the landscapes, people and way of life in the Swift River Valley, an area now covered by the massive Quabbin Reservoir. This publication is the 20th book authored by Greene relating to the history of the Quabbin Reservoir and the towns taken for its construction. The program is free and is appropriate for all ages. The Quabbin Visitor Center is located in the Department of Conservation and Recreation Quabbin Administration Building, 485 Ware Road in Belchertown. It is accessed through the main entrance to Quabbin Reservoir on Route 9, three miles east of the Route 9/202 intersection. For additional information, contact the center at 413-323-7221. academy I FROM PAGE 1 uate from the program. Classes will be held Wednesday nights from 7 to 9 p.m. LaFlower said that there will be a variety of topics covered and the classes will be taught by members of the department. “Some of the topics covered will be criminal law, Constitutional law, motor vehicle law and patrol procedures,” he said. LaFlower will be the director of the academy, and is a certified instructor for the Municipal Police Training Committee in the areas of legal updates and the use of force as well as being certified in a variety of other law enforcement topics. Chief Bruce Spiewakowski and Officer Gerry Millette are both certified firearms instructors and will teach those portions of the academy. Other officers will be assisting with other topics presented throughout the course. While much of the class time is lecture format there will be a couple classes that are more hands on, including a live fire at the range and a class on self-defense tactics. To participate in range time, participants must be appropriately licensed for firearm use through the state. Participants will also get an inside look at police communications, including a tour of dispatch and an overview of the E911 system. Ride-along time with a patrol officer will also be offered to participants. “It was very well received and quite successful when I ran this in ‘99,” LaFlower said. “As a matter of fact, a few of the people who signed up this time attended the first Citizen’s Police Academy.” Anyone interested in participating can get an application from dispatch, show up at the department on Wednesday night or call the station at 413-436-9595 for more information. Detailed curriculum information is available on the academy’s Facebook page at Warren MA Police Citizens Police Academy. $ In cities and towns throughout the nation businesses still reach the largest audience possible by placing ads in their local newspaper. When you need cost-effective market reach and real results, community newspapers deliver! Turley Publications submitted photo STURBRIDGE – The residents of South Shore Drive are thinking spring with this lively “painting” made with a little food coloring, water, a spray bottle and some imagination. Maintain your walker, wheelchair and cane for safety WARE – Like any mechanical device, with regular use, canes, walkers and wheelchairs may need adjustment to worn, broken or bent parts. The staff of Baystate Home Infusion & Respiratory Services will hold two Mobility Clinics at the Medical Retail Store located at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital, 85 South Street in Ware Wednesday, March 11 and Wednesday, April 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. “These special events will bring a new level of safety awareness to our community members,” said Paula Aritan, from the Baystate Home Infusion & Respiratory Services Medical Retail Store. “If your walker or wheelchair isn’t working properly, it may take you extra energy to use it. Having regular tune-ups can ex- tend the life of your equipment and keep you safe. A poorly adjusted cane or walker can affect body alignment and result in pain and worn brakes could allow a wheelchair to slide out of position when you sit or stand. Something as simple as a worn or missing cane tip can allow it to slip on smooth or wet surfaces and result in a fall. We welcome our community members to take advantage of tune-up clinics. Often adjustments and replaced parts can be done very easily and inexpensively.” Registration is not required, walk-ins are welcome. For additional information call the Baystate Home Infusion & Respiratory Services Medical Retail Store at 413-967-2855. Greater Worcester Community Foundation budgets $1.3M in discretionary grants for local non-profits in 2015 Now accepting spring applications for Discretionary Grant Program WORCESTER - The Greater Worcester Community Foundation is currently accepting grant applications for its 2015 Discretionary Grants Program. Discretionary grants provide annual, renewable funding for the wide range of nonprofit initiatives that build healthy and vibrant communities in central Massachusetts. Nonprofits have until Monday, March 16 to apply. With a total annual discretionary grants budget of approximately $1.3 million, the grants are intended to augment the operating budgets of nonprofits serving the foundation’s areas of interest. Those areas include: Arts and Culture programs that enhance appreciation of diverse traditions, build strength and leadership of the creative sector, provide arts education, make neighborhoods more vibrant, or offer respite and inspiration to communities Community Development including the creation of housing for low-income families, physical and safety improvements at the neighborhood level and the engagement of residents Education including early childhood, academic achievement for disadvantaged youth, lifelong learning for adults, English as a second language and worker training Environment including education in science and ecology, protection of the area’s natural resources, public education and grassroots community efforts, land and water conservation and expansion of opportunities for outdoor recreation Health improvement and access to health care for vulnerable communities susceptible to poor health, to address unhealthy behaviors such as tobacco use, poor nutrition, and alcohol abuse Human Services such as counseling and crisis sup- port, legal services, shelter and housing, protection of children and vulnerable elders, refugees and immigrants and integration of people with disabilities Grants are awarded in amounts of $3,000 to $25,000. All 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations serving the cities and towns of Worcester County are eligible to apply. Grantees must be able to demonstrate sound planning and fiscal stewardship, have a legitimate and effective governing board and agree to the foundation’s reporting requirements. Questions can be directed to Pamela B. Kane at 508-755-0980. Grant applications are available online. BUSINESS Turley Publications is liberal with regard to its business coverage polices, but we do have some standards folks need to understand. First, local businesses and merchants are just as much institutions in our towns as the library and schools. Without them, there are no towns. We will feature coverage of local businesses that are new, have a major expansion, moving, closing, under new management or ownership, celebrating a milestone anniversary, or have been thrust into the news realm. Merchants can request that coverage through the editor, or for our existing advertising clients, through their ad representatives. For more information on business coverage for the Quaboag Current/The Town Common, please email [email protected]. PAGE 10 A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 8 [email protected] @turleysports www.turleysports.com acebook.com/turleysports SPORTS Cougars rally at Clark semis falls short Lady Cougars battle Rebels Frenetic finish in final minute Reach finals with win over Douglas - WORCESTER By Dave Forbes Turley Publications Sports Staff Writer - WARREN By Dave Forbes Turley Publications Sports Staff Writer Fourth-seeded Quaboag and top-seeded Hopedale definitely provided a crazy finish when the two schools met up the 76th annual Clark Tournament semifinals at the Kneller Athletic Center on Friday, Feb. 20. Hopedale had looked to have clinched its spot in the finals when Brian Espanet hit a 3-pointer from the right side to give the Blue Devils a 54-44 lead with 1:55 left. The thing is, nobody told the Cougars they were not supposed to be able to come back from that 10-point deficit with less than 2:00 left. The rally started innocently enough when junior forward Dylan Perry made a layup. Then after a missed Quaboag scoring opportunity, junior Will Watkins came up with a steal and layup that turned into a threepoint play as he was fouled in the action of shooting to pull the Cougars within 54-49. Quaboag then forced another turnover and had a great look at the basket on a threepoint attempt that missed. End of the game, right? No. Quaboag commits a serious of three fouls to send Hopedale to the foul line. Hopedale misses the front end of the one-andone. Quaboag races down the floor with 30 seconds left. After a missed jumper, Watkins gets See CLARK I PAGE 12 Quaboag sophomore Ben Wisniewski (15) eyes the basket as he shoots a free throw. See LADY COUGARS PAGE 11 Boys tourney kicks off this week – REGION – Quaboag junior Will Watkins sailed towards the basket for a layup in the first quarter. Turley Publications staff photoS by Dave Forbes Watkins joins Quaboag’s milestone club - WORCESTER By Dave Forbes Turley Publications Sports Staff Writer Quaboag junior Will Watkins became the newest member of an exclusive club when he made a 3-pointer from the left corner in the Cougars’ quarterfinal round victory over North Brookfield at the Clark Tournament last week. He became just the seventh male in school history to reach The Quaboag girls basketball team put the finishing touches on another fine regular season by reaching the championship game of the Cougar Classic at home last week. In fact, the Lady Cougars gave Division 1 powerhouse Notre Dame Academy quite a run for their money in the finals before falling, 52-43, on Wednesday, Feb. 18 Quaboag was in the game throughout as they trailed only 30-23 at the half and even pulled to within 40-38 at the end of the third quarter, but the Rebels were able the 1,000-point mark when he made the history-making shot early in the second quarter at the Kneller Athletic Center. Watkins, who needed 18 points coming into the contest to reach the mark, came out firing early in the contest, and reached the goal with 7:10 left in the second quarter. “It felt good,” Watkins said. “I knew coming into the game how much I needed, but I was trying not to think about it. I just wanted it to come in the See WATKINS I PAGE 12 COLLEGE NOTES Brenner collects two hits WINTER PARK, Fla. - Brandeis University senior first baseman and Brookfield resident Kyle Brenner picked up two hits in an 8-7 win over Warner University on Thursday, Feb. 19. Quaboag junior Will Watkins (11) drives hard to the basket for a hoop in the first quarter. By Gregory A. Scibelli Turley Publications Sports Correspondent South Hadley and Quabbin Regional high schools will both start the postseason on the road this season as seeds for the Western Massachusetts Division 2 Tournament were released last weekend. No. 7 South Hadley was scheduled to be in action in the quarterfinals of the eight-team field last night when they made the long trip to Shepherd Hill High School, which received the No. 2 seed in the tournament. This will be the second straight season South Hadley traveled east because of the combination of Central See tourney I PAGE 11 A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 PAGE 11 - sports Quaboag rolls past Indians in Clark opener @turleysports acebook.com/turleysports Athlete of the Month - WORCESTER By Dave Forbes Turley Publications Sports Staff Writer Play in the 76th annual Clark High School Basketball Tournament kicked off for fourth-seeded Quaboag and fifthseeded North Brookfield in the quarterfinals of the Small School portion of the tournament on Wednesday night at the Kneller Athletic Center. Quaboag, which has reached the finals each of the last four years, was looking for another win to add to their playoff resume, while North Brookfield was in search of one more victory to qualify for the Western Massachusetts Division 4 Tournament. It was the Cougars (16-4) that would pick up the 84-36 victory over the Indians (9-11). After North Brookfield’s David Rumpf (seven points) scored the game’s first point on a free throw, the Cougars ran off the next 14. Junior Will Watkins (game-high 26 points on 10-of-13 shooting) gave the Cougars the lead on a jumper, forward Dylan Perry (eight points) hit a jumper from the baseline and Watkins nailed another pullup jumper before a pair of Perry free throws to extend the Quaboag lead to 8-1. Watkins and junior Dillon Antonopoulos (13 points) then hit back-toback 3-pointers to build the Quaboag lead to 14-1 with 3:30 left. “It was important for us to get off to a quick start,” Quaboag head coach Chris Reilly said. “We play better as a team when we are able to do that.” North Brookfield center Connor Hibbard (team-high 11 points) would break up the run for the Indians when he made his team’s first field goal of the night. Quaboag would then finish off the quarter by scoring the last 11 points. Watkins had a layup, guard Ben Wisniewski (nine points) scored on an offensive putback and Watkins would get the final seven on an offensive putback, a 3-pointer from the right side and a pair of free throws to give the Cougars a 25-3 lead at the end of the first quarter. www.turleysports.com Will Watkins SCHOOL: Quaboag C ongratulations goes out to the Cougars varsity basketball player. He scored his 1,000th career point earlier this month. To nominate someone for Athlete of the Week, contact Sports Editor Dave Forbes at 413-967-3505 ext. 106 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Our Family Cares About Your Family HOME – AUTO – BUSINESS – LIFE Turley Publications staff photoS by Dave Forbes Quaboag’s Dylan Perry (13) battles with North Brookfield’s Billy Mendala (23) and David Rumpf (5) for a rebound in the first quarter. Watkins, who needed 18 points coming into the contest to reach the 1,000point barrier, got the milestone basket less than a minute into the second quarter. Watkins, who was set up on the left side, received a nice pass to where he was open and drained the 3-pointer from the left side to increase the Cougars lead to 29-7. North Brookfield forward Jeremy Glinski (seven points) then hit a 3pointer from the left side to answer back to cut the Indians deficit to 29-10 with 5:45 left in the second. The Cougars would extend the lead to 30 points by halftime on the strength of three layups and Antonopoulos’ third 3-pointer of the half. The contest would continue in much the same fashion in the second half as all 15 Quaboag players got out onto the floor and contributed either a point, a rebound or an assist. CONGRATULATIONS ATHLETE! Very Competitive Rates • Experienced Professional Staff 99% Claim Satisfaction Rate • On-site Registry Processing 143 West Street Ware, MA 01082 1500 North Main Street Palmer, MA 01069 www.moultoninsurance.com More companies, more choices, BETTER RATES! 413-967-3327 LADY COUGARS I FROM PAGE 10 to hold on for the victory. Senior center Brittany Herring had another big game for the Lady Cougars as she finished with 16 points. Kayla Klein was second with nine, followed by six from Lexi Paquette and Emma Stanton, four from Olivia Corfey and two from Cassidy Paquette. Quaboag reached the finals by beating Douglas, 44-40, on Monday, Feb. tourney I FROM PAGE 10 The Quaboag boys get together as a team before the start of the game. 45 North Main Street Belchertown, MA 01007 and Western Massachusetts teams in the tournament. The Tigers finished the regular season with a record 12-8. The Tigers were slowed at the start of the season, when they lost three of their first four games. But South Hadley would pick it up near the middle of the season. At one point between Jan. 16 and Feb. 3, the Tigers won six straight games. South Hadley would finish the regular season winning four of six games, suffering a couple of hiccups against Pioneer Valley Regional and Belchertown. The Tigers would close out the regular season with a win against Chicopee Comp. While South Hadley has not faced Shepherd Hill in the regular season, they have faced No. 1 seeded Longmeadow. In two matchups this season, South Hadley split the games. The Tigers did get win in the second matchup on Feb. AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS 16. This game was also close throughout as the Lady Cougars held a narrow 22-21 lead at the half and they managed to stretch the lead out just a little bit in the second half. Klein finished with a team-high 13 for Quaboag. Herring was also in double figures with 12. Stanton was next with six, followed by five from L. Paquette and two each from C. Paquette and Corfey. 10, outlasting the Lancers 53-52. South Hadley would only face Longmeadow if both teams made it to the finals of the tournament. Tantasqua went 16-3 this season, but lost some points in the Walker system due to their strength of schedule. They won the right to host a quarterfinal game, though, and were scheduled to host North Middlesex, another Central Mass. team, on Feb. 26. Quabbin had a 13-7 record and received the sixth seed. They were scheduled to face No. 3 Pittsfield on the road in the quarterfinals. In the Division 3 Tournament, Palmer was the lowest qualifying team in the nine-team bracket. The Panthers were scheduled to face Easthampton in the only qualifying round game on Monday night. If Palmer wins, they would face No. 1 Hampshire in the quarterfinals. Palmer went 11-9 this season. Easthampton is No. 8 at 11-7 and Hampshire Regional is the top seed at 17-4. w w w. t u r l ey s p o rt s . c o m PAGE 1 2 A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 - sports 2015 Quabbin Regional Middle/High School Spring Athletic Registration BARRE - Registration for the 2015 spring athletic season for both middle and high school student athletes will take place on Thursday, March 5 and Tuesday, March 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the high school gym lobby. The Massachusetts School Health Record, Quabbin Athletic Health/Emergency Information Form, Sports Participation Health Questionnaire and Athletic Pre-Participation Concussion History and Screening must be completed for registration. The forms are available for download at the Quabbin Regional High School web site, www.qrsd.org (Athletic Page). Athletes must have all completed forms on file in the health office. Participation fees: high school: $210, reduced lunch $31.50, free lunch no fee. Middle School: $120, reduced lunch $18, free lunch no fee. High school spring sports offered are: baseball, girls’ golf, girls tennis, softball and track. Middle school spring sports offered are: baseball, softball and track. The participation fee can be paid on the website www.qrsd.org by clicking on the UniPay Online Payment Center under the Parent tab or on the bottom right corner of every page. The participation fee can also be paid by personal check, certified check or money order. Cash will not be accepted. Checks are payable to QRSD. Fees are to be paid at the time of registration. Please contact the athletic director or nurse with any questions at 978-355-4651. Signups set for Quabbin Youth Football BARRE - Signups for Quabbin Youth Football and Cheerleading will be Tuesday, March 3 and Thursday, March 12 from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Quabbin Regional High School cafeteria. All boys and girls who will be in grades 2-8 next year, are eligible to participate. A copy of your birth certificate is required for anyone who didn’t play last year. The fee will be $75 per participant with a maximum of $150 per family, if you signup before April 1. Team Mass AAU tryouts set STURBRIDGE - Team Mass Boys AAU Basketball will hold tryouts on Saturday, Feb. 28 at Tantasqua Junior High School on Brookfield Road. Breakdowns are as follows: Boys grades 4-6 10:15 to 11:30 a.m., grades 7-8 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and grades 9-11 12:45 to 2 p.m. Please bring birth certificate and $20 tryout fee. Arrive 15 minutes early. In case of inclement weather, check website at teammassboys.com for more information. Coaches and assistant coaches always needed. Lady Warriors to face Quabbin in quarters – REGION – By Gregory A. Scibelli Turley Publications Sports Correspondent The Western Massachusetts Division 2 girls basketball tournament features some convenient matchups during the quarterfinals of the tournament. Eight teams qualified in Division 2 with Longmeadow and Pittsfield leading the pack with the first two seeds. Tantasqua worked for an impressive 17-3 record this season and will host a Central Mass. team in their first matchup of the year. They will face Quabbin Regional on Friday, Feb. 27. Tantasqua does not have any experience against Quabbin this season. The Warriors do meet nearby Quaboag in the regular season, and split the two meetings. The rest of Tantasqua’s schedule is in Central Mass. The Warriors have not seen any other teams in their tournament. Quabbin had a 13-7 record and has the No. 6 seed. CLARK I FROM PAGE 10 the offensive rebound and scores on the putback to pull the Cougars within three at 54-51 with 19 seconds left. Quaboag once again commits a foul on the next Hopedale possession to extend the game. Hopedale once again misses the front end of the one-and-one and Connor Spencer grabbed the rebound for Quaboag. The Cougars push the ball down the floor to try and get a look at the tying 3-pointer, but turn the ball over as it goes out of the bounds. On the ensuing Hopedale possession, the Blue Devils try to get the ball inbounds to one of their players, but the ball instead deflects off his hands and goes out of bounds under the baseline, giving the Cougars one last chance to tie the game. However, the Cougars would not get that opportunity as Kevin WATKINS I FROM PAGE 10 flow of the game.” Watkins, who finished the game 10-of-13 for 26 points in 20 minutes, got off to a fast start. His first points of the night came on a pullup jumper less than a minute into the game. After another jumper and a 3-pointer from the right side he had seven points and the Cougars were ahead 11-1. A layup and an inside basket off of an offensive rebound putback would pull him with seven points of the mark. Watkins would get to 998 by the end of the quarter with his second 3-pointer of the night and a pair of free throws, setting up the history making moment for early in the second quarter. “Will is just such a great kid. I am so happy for him,” Quaboag head coach Chris Reilly said. “I told him when he came to Quaboag that he had the potential to be a very special player. I think that he has become a very special player.” The other major matchup in the quarterfinal bracket is No. 5 Belchertown making the short trip to No. 4 Ludlow. This season, Belchertown had a 12-8 regular season record, but their strength of schedule allowed them to be ranked higher than Quabbin and Commerce in the seedings. Belchertown was in a league that consisted mostly of Division 1 teams. The Orioles placed second behind Chicopee Comp this season at 5-3. The Orioles did face Ludlow one time this season in independent action, taking the win 63-54. Belchertown’s big weapon is Tea’ Spellacy, who picked up her 1,000th point during the second game of the regular season. Spellacy finished the season with an impressive 419 points for the season. She led her team with 35 3-pointers and also sank 104 free throws. Kayla Henry finished the season with 171 points and Kylie Lounder had 107 points for the season. The Orioles will need all three of them to be on in order to move forward in the tournament. The Orioles qualified for the regular season on Jan. 29, but struggled the last couple of weeks. They finished the regular season with four straight losses. Ludlow qualified for the tournament with a 10-10 record, but had the second highest strengthof-schedule rating in Division 2. Ludlow has their own weapon in Alyssa Guyon. She had even better numbers than Spellacy this season with a total of 481 points this year. She made 26 3-pointers and 109 free throws. Kierra McCarthy had an excellent season this year with 199 points. Ludlow had a tough start to their regular season with three straight losses, but rebounded with four straight wins. The Lions had another threegame losing streak, but finished out the season winning four of six games. The two teams matchup on Friday, Feb. 27, at 7 p.m. The other quarterfinal matchups are No. 7 North Middlesex at No. 2 Pittsfield and No. 8 Commerce at No. 1 Longmeadow. Lynch came up with a steal off the inbound pass and he would get fouled with 10 seconds left. With an opportunity to make it a twopossession game at the other end, he would miss the front end of the one-and-one. However, Espanet would grab the offensive rebound and go up for the outback basket to extend the lead to 56-51. Wisniewski would then knocked down a 3-pointer as time expired to account for the final score. Quaboag would jump out to an early lead in this one as they used an early 9-2 run that featured a jumper from Watkins (game-high 22 points, nine rebounds), a layup from Perry (18 points, 10 rebounds), a Dillon Antonopoulos (six points) 3-pointer from the left corner and a pair of Wisniewski (eight points, eight rebounds) free throws. The Cougars, who would build up the lead to as much as 11 points following a Watkins 3-pointer early in the second quarter, would maintain this advantage until late in the third quarter. Trailing 37-28, Hopedale would go on a 17-0 run that would change the complexion of the contest. Garrett Fishlock would score on an offensive putback and William Leke would knock down a 3pointer from the top of the key to pull Hopedale within four at 37-33. Sam Lawrence added a pair off free throws and then Fishlock scored again down low to even the score at 37-37 before Espanet would drain a 3-pointer to give Hopedale its first lead of the game at 40-37 with 34 seconds left in the third. Early in the fourth, Lynch would add a layup and Espanet scored on a 3-pointer before Wisniewski finally broke the string for Quaboag with a free throw. The lead would stay in that range until Quaboag’s attempted comeback late in the fourth. Watkins, who lives in Southbridge, scored 265 points in his freshman year at Southbridge High School before transferring to Quaboag before the start of his sophomore season. Coming off the bench in a sixth man type of role for the Cougars last season, Watkins would come on and deliver instant offense. He finished the season with 323 points, giving him 588 for his career, and leaving him just over 400 points shy of reaching the 1,000-point mark. “I just try to do what I can to help the team win,” Watkins said. Reilly praised Watkins for all of the hard work that he has put in to become a better player. “He has worked so hard to become a better defender,” Reilly said. “It is something that he works hard on in practice every day. He has learned from the other kids that have come through the program and now he is teaching those things to the kids that are coming up.” Turley Publications staff photo by Dave Forbes Quaboag junior Will Watkins (11) is fouled by North Brookfield’s Connor Hibbard (15) and Jeremy Glinski (25). A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 PAGE 1 3 Buzzin’ from Town to Town Classifieds Turley Publications’ Community Marketplace For Sale Antiques A public service announcement presented by your community paper ANTIQUE AND PERIOD chairs – Restored with new woven seats – Many styles and weaves available. Call (413)267-9680. Your Ad Could be Here WINTERGARDEN AUCTION SERVICES (413)267-3786 or (413)539-1472 ANTIQUES AUCTION Date Feb 28th, 2015 QUABOAG COUNTRY CLUB PALMER RD., RT. 32, MONSON, MA Time 10:00AM AuctionZip Auctioneer ID# 8223 Please join us for an exciting ANTIQUES AUCTION including VICTORIAN & COUNTRY FURNITURE, MANY PIECES OF ORIGINAL ARTWORK, PHOTOGRAPHS, PRINTS, ADVERTISING CLOCKSSIGNS-BOTTLES & TINS, "COUNTRY" Smalls, Homespun, Early Newspapers, Majolica, Staffordshire, Canton, Sterling Silver, Musical Instruments, Milk Bottles and more. Keep checking back for additional info & photos since we are way behind due to the continuing snow. www.wintergardenauction.com Craft Fair CRAFTERS, VENDORS AND TAG SALERS wanted Union Church of Christ 51 Center St. Rt. 21, Ludlow Ma. 01056 April 25 9:00 am – 3:00 pm 6ft table with chairs $25.00 8ft table with chairs $35.00 If you are interested in renting a table please call Diane at 413-583-3584 ✦ www.turley.com ✦ Call us toll free at 1-800-824-6548 Firewood Want it! Find it! Buy it! Sell it! Love it! Drive it! SEASONED OAK & HARDWOOD. Cut split and delivered. 2, 3 & 4 cord loads. R.T. Smart & Sons. (413)267-3827 www.rtsmartwood.com Miscellaneous READ IT!!! 15 Weekly Newspapers Serving 50 Local Communities Firewood Firewood FIREWOOD Fresh cut & split $175.00. Seasoned cut & split $250.00 All hardwood. *Also have seasoned softwood for outdoor boilers (Cheap). Quality & volumes guaranteed!! New England Forest Products (413)477-0083. 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FREE E-filing • Over 20 Years Experience Call For An Appointment The IRS does not endorse any particular individual tax return preparer. For more information on tax preparers go to irs.gov. Kitchen Table Taxes Personal & Small Business Tax Returns "David The Tax Man" Phone/Fax 413-289-0058 Credit Cards Welcome [email protected] David E. Whitney Notary Public Sixty-Five Jim Ash Road Palmer, MA 01069-9814 www.kitchentabletaxes.com Melchiori Tax and Financial Services IRS Problems? Let a Professional Handle it for you. Call us anytime! Complete Tax Services: Personal, Business, Corporations and Partnerships Registered Notary Public Telephone (413) 786-8727 • Fax (413) 786-1833 [email protected] • pauline@ melchioritax.com 24 Southwick Street, Feeding Hills, MA 01030 Enrolled Agent Celebrating 5 years in Business proactive tax consulting and compliance • accounting services payroll & bookkeeping • financial planning (413)279-1049 • [email protected] 2341 Boston Road, Suite A120A, Wilbraham, MA 01095 Call your local Turley Publications sales representative for information and rates on advertising your tax service here! 413-283-8393 • 1-800-824-6548 CALL YOUR LOCAL TURLEY PUBLICATIONS SALES REPRESENTATIVE FOR INFORMATION AND RATES ON ADVERTISING YOUR TAX SERVICE HERE! 413-283-8393 • 1-800-824-6548 Wanted OLD BEER CANS, signs, 1960 or earlier. Can be found in attics, in between walls, cellars. Call/ text Jeff (860)833-8295. OLD CARPENTER TOOLS wanted. Planes, chisels, saws, levels, etc. Call Ken 413-4332195. Keep your vintage tools working and get MONEY. WANTED ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES Furniture, Advertising signs, Toys, Dolls, Trains Crocks & Jugs, Musical Instruments, Sterling Silver & Gold, Coins, Jewelry, Books, Primitives, Vintage Clothing, Military items, Old Lamps. Anything old. Contents of attics, barns and homes. One item or complete estate. Call (413)2673786 or (413)539-1472 Ask for Frank. WE PAY FAIR PRICES!!! Wanted To Buy For Full Accounting & Tax Service Registered Tax Return Preparer 413-967-8364 PROMOTE YOUR PRODUCT, service or business to 1.7 million households throughout New England. Reach 4 million potential readers quickly and inexpensively with great results. Use the Buy New England Classified Ad Network by calling (413)283-8393, [email protected]. Do they work? You are reading one of our ads now!! Visit our website to see where your ads run communitypapersne.com ***A A CALL – HAUL IT ALL*** Bulk trash removal, cleanouts, 10% discount with this ad. Free Est. (413)596-7286 90 YEAR OLD company offering free in-home water testing. Call Eric 413-244-8139 ABSOLUTE CHIMNEY SERVICES C.S.I.A. Certified and Insured. Sweeping chimneys year round. Thank you. 413-967-8002. ACE CHIMNEY SWEEPS. Cleanings, inspections, repairs, caps, liners, waterproofing, rebuilds. Gutterbrush Installations. Local family owned since 1986. HIC #118355. Fully insured. (413)5478500. BILODEAU AND SON Roofing. Established 1976. New re-roofs and repairs. Gutter cleanings and repairs. Licensed/ insured. Call (413)967-6679. CHAIR SEAT WEAVING & refinishing - cane, fiber rush & splint - Classroom instructor, 20+ years experience. Call Walt at (413)267-9680 for estimate. CHIMNEY SERVICES: CLEANINGS, caps, dampers, repairs including masonry and liners. The best for less!!! Worcester to Pittsfield. www.expresschimney.com 413-650-0126, 508-245-1501 Colonial Carpentry Innovations, Inc. Design & Build Team “New World Technology with Old World Quality” CHANTEL BLEAU ACCOUNTING SERVICES 228 West St., Ware, MA 01082 Services BUYING RECORD collections. Jazz, big band and 50’s. LP’s and 45’s. Cash paid. Call (413)5688036 NEW ENGLAND ESTATE PICKERS “in the Old Monson Bowling Alley” We are buying all types of Antiques and Collectibles!! Simply Bring your items in for a Free Evaluation and/ or Cash Offer!! We will come to you. Contents of attic, basements, entire estates!! Clean sweep service. All Gold and Silver Items to include; jewelry, costume and estate pcs., wrist/pocket watches, class ring, etc., broken or not. Silverware sets, trays, trophies, etc., Coins of all sorts, Proof sets, Silver dollars and other coinage collections! All types of Old Advertising Signs, Military items to include Daggers, Swords, Bayonets, guns, medals, uniforms, helmets etc. Old toys, train sets, dolls, metal trucks, old games, model car kits from the ’60s, old bicycles, motorcycles, pedal cars, Matchbox, action figures, Pre1970’s Baseball cards, comic books, etc.! Old picture frames, prints and oil paintings, old fishing equipment, lures, tackle boxes! Post Card albums, old coke machines, pinball, juke boxes, slot machines, musical instruments, guitars of all types, banjos, horns, accordions, etc. Old cameras, microscopes, telescopes, etc. Just like on T.V. We buy all things seen on “Pickers” and the “Pawn Shop” shows!! Call or Bring your items in to our 4,500 square foot store!! 64 Main Street., Monson (“The Old Bowling Alley”) We are your Estate Specialists!! Over 30 yrs. in the Antique Business! Prompt Courteous Service! Open Daily 10:00- 5:00 Sun. 12:00- 5:00 (413)267-3729. www.colonialinnovation.com Kitchens • Baths • Doors • Additions Renovations • Custom Designs • New Homes Lifetime Warranty on Craftsmanship lic. & ins. Bob (413) 374-6175 or Jen (413) 244-5112 DRYWALL AND CEILINGS, plaster repair. Drywall hanging. Taping & complete finishing. All ceiling textures. Fully insured. Jason at Great Walls. (413)563-0487 HANDYMAN SERVICES One call does it all Storm Clean-up Snowplowing, Roof Raking, High Lift Service, Remodeling, Roof Repairs, Excavating Fully insured. Free estimates. Reasonable rates www.rlhenterprises.net (413)668-6685. HANDYMAN, TILE, carpentry, sheet rock, repairs, decks, window and door replacement, painting, staining. Call Gil. Free estimates. Licensed, insured (413)323-0923. PAINT AND PAPER Over 25 years experience. References. Lic #086220. Please call Kevin 978355-6864. WE RENOVATE, SELL & PURCHASE (any condition) horse drawn vehicles such as sleighs, carriages, surreys, wagons, dr’s buggies, driveable or lawn ornaments. Some furniture and other restoration services available. Reasonable prices. Quality workmanship. Call (413)213-0373 for estimate and information. Demers & Sons Belchertown, MA PAGE 1 4 A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 Buzzin’ from Town to Town Classifieds Turley Publications’ Community Marketplace ✦ www.turley.com Child Services Garage Door Serv. Roofing *NEW STATE LAW. Anyone advertising caring of children must list a license number to do so if they offer this service in their own home. MENARD GARAGE DOORS Authorized Raynor dealer specializing in sales, installation service and repairs of residential and light commercial overhead garage doors and openers. Fully insured. Free estimates. Call (413)289-6550 or www.menardgaragedoors.com SKY-TECH ROOFING, INC. 25 years experience. Commercial, residential. Insured. Shingles, single-ply systems. Tar/ gravel, slate repairs. 24 hour Emergency Repairs. (413)536-3279, (413)348-9568, (413)204-4841. Instruction CLEAR SNOW & ICE DAMS FROM ROOFS. ALL TYPES OF ROOFING, shingle, flat and slate. Call Local Builders (413)626-5296. Complete roofing systems and repairs. Fully licensed and insured. MA CS #102453. Lifetime warranty. Senior Discount. 24 hour service. MAKE A DIFFERENCE FROM HOME Become a Foster Parent! Earn $20,000 annually Call Kilsi 413-746-3768 TODAY! Cleaning Services & COMPLETE JANITORIAL SERVICE 413-531-9393 www.rogersrugs.com DON'T BE A STARVING ARTIST - learn how to teach painting with this special method to people of all ages and abilities and have your own business with a stable income. Fill the need for more art in healthcare facilities. Check it out at: www.artis4every1.com or call (508)882-3947 DRUM SET INSTRUCTOR Accepting New Students. Pro Studio w/acoustic & electric drum & hand percussion based in Hardwick. Need drum set lessons for any age or ability level in the Ware and Hardwick area? Drummer with 30 years of performance and teaching experience now accepting more students. First trial lesson is free. Professional teaching studio based locally within 10-15 miles. Call (508)867-3784 for more information. Fully Insured Free Estimates Electrician DEPENDABLE ELECTRICIAN, FRIENDLY service, installs deicing cables. Free estimates. Fully insured. Scott Winters electrician Lic. #13514-B Call (413)244-7096. DAVE’S LAWN & GARDEN SNOW REMOVAL WE can do everything from removing of snow to shoveling and cleaning your roof. Please call George (413)3484891. ROOF RAKING & snow removal. We will remove the snow from around your basement to avoid water leaks. Insured. (413)8839033 ROOF SNOW REMOVAL, snowplowing, snow blowing. Fully insured. Steve (413)283-2088. Tree Work ATEKS TREE- Honest, quality tree service. From pruning to house lot clearing. Fully insured. Free estimates (413)687-3220. DUKE'S TREE SERVICE & LAWN CARE Tree removal, Pruning, Leaf removal Duke's Waste Management & More Dump runs, Clean outs 413-535-9808 [email protected] Dukeswastemanagement.com OFFICE CLEANING SERVICE Roger M. Driscoll Owner Snow Removal Pets HORSE BACK RIDING Lessons: Always wanted to learn to ride? Come join our safe riding lesson program at White Spruce Farms in New Braintree. We have the most experience and best prices in the area. Adults and children welcome. whitesprucefarms.com 978-257-4666 TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED A & B CDL CLASSES + BUS Chicopee, Ma (413)592-1500 UNITED TRACTOR TRAILER SCHOOL Unitedcdl.com BE A RESPONSIBLE PET OWNER - Financially needy? Call for assistance to spay/neuter your cat/dog. (413)565-5383 CONCERNED CITIZENS FOR ANIMALS. RETIRED RACING GREYHOUNDS AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION spayed/neutered, wormed, shots, heartworm tested, teeth cleaned Make a Fast Friend! Greyhound Options Inc. Call Mary at 413-566-3129 or Claire at 413-967-9088 or go to www.greyhoundoptions.org. HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS offered year round at our state of the art facility. Beginner to advanced. Ages 4 years to adult. Boarding, sales and leasing also available. Convenient location at Orion Farm in South Hadley. (413)532-9753 www.orionfarm.net Home Improvement C-D HOME IMPROVEMENT. 1 Call for all your needs. Windows, siding, roofs, additions, decks, baths, hardwood floors, painting. All work 100% guaranteed. Licensed and insured. Call Bob (413)596-8807 Cell CS Lic. #97110, HIC Lic #162905 CERAMIC TILE INSTALLATION Kitchen, bath, foyers. References. Lic #086220. Please call Kevin (978)355-6864. HOME IMPROVEMENTS. REMODELING. Kitchens, baths. Ceramic tile, windows, painting, wallpapering, textured ceilings, siding, additions. Insurance work. Fully insured. Free estimates. 413246-2783 Ron. PELISSIER TILE- SPECIALIZING in the timeless art of tile setting since 1982. Insured, Free estimates. Call Bill (413)446-7458. WATER DAMAGE -CALL JAY (413)436-5782FOR REPAIRS Complete Drywall Service. Finishing, Painting, Ceilings (Smooth or Textured). 38 years experience. Fully insured YANKEE CABIN FEVER GNAWING AT YOU? Waiting for the crocus to pop up? For an uplifting, inspirational message check out the short video I put together. Log onto: QUABBINROAD.COM and be blessed. Masonry COMPLETE CHIMNEY & MASONRY SERVICE A+ BBB RATING “From Brick to Stone, Sidewalks to Fireplaces” New Construction- RebuildsRepairs & Restoration Licensed- RegisteredFully Insured Owner Operated Eric 413-210-9631 www.emcmasonry.com Accepting all major CC’s and Paypal Plumbing LINC’S PLUMBING LIC #J27222 Prevent Emergencies Now Call LINC’S For Your Connection (413)668-5299 Help Wanted ACCOUNTING CLERK/ ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Part time position available at a small toy and game company in Indian Orchard MA. Repsonsible for order processing, AR and general sales and marketing support. Hours are M-W-F from 95. Candidates must have a strong working knowledge of Excel, excellent communication skills, be highly organized and detail oriented. Accounting experience is a plus but we will train. Send resume to [email protected] BARTENDER APPLY IN person. Salem Cross Inn, Rt. 9, West Brookfield. DRIVER, SCHOOL VAN for growing school transportation Company. 4-6 hours/day. Must be good w/children & have 7+ years safe driving experience. Earn $12.60+/hour. Call (978)355-2121 after 9:30 AM for application. Will train. EEO Help Wanted Help Wanted CUSTOM MANUFACTURING COMPANY, located in Palmer, MA is accepting resumés for Quality Manager Position Please send resumés to PO Box 850 Palmer, MA 01069 Duties: Management of ISO 9001: 2008 Quality System. Management of Inspection Department to ensure efficiency and conformance to Customer’s specifications. Work with Design Engineers to create Inspection Plans to ensure conformance. Management of Environmental & Safety program Qualifications: Minimum of 2 year degree or 5 years experience in Quality Management. Familiar with ISO 9001:2008 Quality Systems to ensure Quality and documentation control. Proficient in reading of Engineering Prints (GD&T). Strong computer skills. Global Shop familiarity a plus. Manufacturing or Machining background a plus. PCA’S HHA’S, CNA’S NEEDEDfor Monson, Brimfield, Hampden, Palmer, Ware, etc. Must be dependable, have reliable transportation and verifiable work references. Please call Visiting Angels 508-764-6700. STILLMAN GREENHOUSE & FARM STAND, NEW BRAINTREE, MA needs 3 temporary workers 3/1/2015 to 10/25/2015, work tools, supplies, equipment provided without cost to worker. Housing will be available without cost to workers who cannot reasonably return to their permanent residence at the end of the work day. Transportation reimbursement and subsistence is provided upon completion of 15 days or 50% of the work contract. Work is guaranteed for 3/4 of the workdays during the contract period. $11.26 per hr. Applicants apply at, North Central Career Center, 25 Main St, Gardner MA 01440, 978-632-5050 or apply for the job at the nearest local office of the SWA. Job order #5170639. Diversified fruit and vegetable farm. General duties include: seeding, transplanting, writing labels for transplants, weeding, cultivating and pruning, less than 15% of the season; planting 15% of the season; harvesting, picking and packing by hand various crops such as legumes, squash, corn, berries, apples, root crops and potatoes 70% of the season. Other duties include weeding, cutting, and arranging cut-flowers, use of hand tools, setting up, operating and/or repairing farm machinery and fencing. Ability to withstand prolonged exposure to variable weather conditions; also required to bend, stoop or stand for extended periods and lift and carry 50 pounds on a frequent basis. 1 month experience required in work listed. The %'s listed are estimates. Workers may spend 0-100% of their time performing any of the activities listed. FIREFIGHTER/EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS (2) Town of Wilbraham. Position requires a valid Mass. driver’s license, must be Min. Mass. EMTD certified, preference given to applicants who have completed the Mass. Firefighting Recruit Program and offer work experience with an organized Fire Department. Must not smoke and must meet Massachusetts medical and physical agility test standards. The Town offers a base hiring rate of $921.31/wk, (EMT-D 10%, EMT-I 14%, EMT-P 16%); union positions w/ full benefits, 24 hr shifts (1-on; 1-off; 1-on; 5-off); Interested parties must complete an Employment Application available at Board of Selectmen’s Office, Town Office Building, 240 Springfield Street, Wilbraham, MA 01095 (or print from town website at: www.wilbraham-ma.gov). Applications must be received by 4:30 pm March 13, 2015. EOE FOSTER CARE: YOU can help change someone’s life. Provide a safe home for children and teens who have been abused or neglected. Call Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care at 413734-2493. MACHINE OPERATORS AND MANUAL ASSEMBLY personnel needed in the Palmer area. Must have a consistent work history, HS Diploma, and be able to fill out basic operation forms. Please apply to www.unitedpersonnel.com MAINTENANCE FOREMANGENERAL maintenance, grounds keeping, laborer wanted. Mechanical skills a plus. We are looking for an energetic, able bodied person to fill this full time position. Benefit package. Prefer to have someone that has a class D1 water license and a hoisting license. If interested in this position please send a resumé to: Pine Valley Plantation Coop., 281 Chauncey Walker St., OFC 30, Belchertown, MA 01007. PART TIME WANTED to stack firewood and run equipment. Must be consistent. Tetreault & Son (413)245-9615 PART TIME: ENERGETIC, organized person. Will train. HHA, CNA or Map Cert. would be a plus. We are looking for an energetic, focused, organized person who we can Med Certify and train for direct care and some housekeeping duties. Call Nancy B. (508)612-7525 Apply (see Maureen) 9am-4pm weekdays. Brookhaven Assisted Care, 19 West Main St., West Brookfield PART-TIME SALES. SAS COMFORT SHOES BIG Y PLAZA, LUDLOW, MASS PART-TIMERN, HHA’S, CNA’s Positions available at Professional Medical Services, Inc. Competitive rates & mileage. EOE. Call Jan Mon., Tues., Fri. 9am-3pm. (413)2899018 PCA’S, HHA’S AND CNA’s needed in Monson, Brimfield, Hampden, Palmer, Ware and Belchertown. Highest wages for home care agency. Days, Nights and weekends. Must have reliable transportation and verifiable work references. Call HomeStaff (413)746-0066. POLICE OFFICER- TOWN of Wilbraham. Applicants must be HS graduates. Candidates possessing a certificate of completion from an approved Massachusetts Police Academy or having received comparable training recognized by the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee for full time police officers are preferred. Position requires a valid Mass. driver’s license, firearms license, first responder and AED/CPR certification; the ideal candidate offers additional coursework in law enforcement related subjects, or an Associates Degree in Law Enforcement, and 2+ years of related work experience. The Town offers a hiring rate of $985.15 weekly base pay, a professional work environment, competitive benefits package, rotating four on/two off (8-hour) shift schedule. Interested parties must complete an Employment Application available at Board of Selectmen’s Office, Town Office Building, 240 Springfield Street, Wilbraham, MA 01095 (or print from town website at: www.wilbraham-ma.gov). Applications must be received by 4:30 pm March 13, 2015. EOE SNOW SHOVEL & snow throw at Quaboag Apts., Green St., Palmer. Reliable person. Call for more details 860-658-2101. TOWN OF HUBBARDSTON Full-Time DPW Truck Driver/Laborer. Applicant must possess excellent driving record, current Class B CDL with air brakes and hoisting license. Union position. Excellent benefits. Starting wage at $17.47/hr. Job description and employment applications are available in the Slade Building or online at http://www.hubbardstonma.us. Send application and copy of your driving record to Town Administrator, 7 Main St., Unit #3, Hubbardston, MA 01452. Position open until filled. Review of apps begins immediately. EOE Real Estate LUDLOW- CONDO FOR sale. 2 beds, 2 baths 1,645 sq.ft. Great Meadow Crest Townhouse Condominium with Hardwood floors, white kitchen cabinetry, and spacious rooms with a covered back deck off the dining area for maximum sun exposure and peaceful enjoyment. Finished Family Room in basement, with attached 1 car garage. Close to Mass Pike and walking distance to Randall’s Farm! For more information or to view this condo call Chris Bloom 413-687-5743, Gallagher Real Estate. e HEATING REPAIRS- AFFORDABLE, PROFESSIONAL service on all brands, gas furnace, heat pump & mini split systems. Tony’s Heating & Cooling Service (413)221-7073 Help Wanted Sal Horses Call us toll free at 1-800-824-6548 For Heating & Air Cond. ✦ Financial Coordinator Financial Coordinator: Pioneer Valley Planning Commission seeks a full-time Financial Coordinator to maintain financial records of various PVPC Community Development Section administered programs (80% time) and assistance to the Commission’s Accounting Department (20% time). At least 3 years similar experience and college degree or relevant coursework preferred. Starting salary, depending on qualifications and experience, up to $38,500 with full benefits. Submit a cover letter, resume and three references by target date of March 6, 2015 to James M. Mazik, AICP - Deputy Director, Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, 60 Congress Street, Springfield, MA 01104. The PVPC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion and disability in employment or the provision of services. An AA/EOE. A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 Buzzin’ from Town to Town Classifieds Turley Publications’ Community Marketplace Real Estate Mobile Homes 967-7355 JILL A. GRAVEL, BROKER Call us today For Rent BARRE STORE FRONT OR office with apt in back or use as 3 BR, heat, electric, HW, parking, 1st, last, references $1,200/ mo (774)239-3290 And view thousands of properties 24/7 at gravelrealestate.com Evenings call: NICOLE FLAMAND JAVIER STUART LORI FISHER CLAUDIO SANTORO MERRIE BROWN KAYE BOOTHMAN JILL GRAVEL 413-695-2319 413-627-2700 617-620-0027 413-813-8257 413-668-8190 413-477-6624 413-364-7353 All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status (number of children and or pregnancy), national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, or any intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain about discrimination call The Department of Housing and Urban Development “ HUD” toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. For the N.E. area, call HUD at 617-565-5308. The toll free number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. www.Century21ToomeyLovett.com 413-967-6326 800-486-2121 West Brookfield: 508-867-7064 OUR INVENTORY HAS DWINDLED LIST NOW PROPER PRICING EQUALS FAST SALES HILLSIDE VILLAGE APARTMENTS Applications now being accepted for one, two and three bedroom apartments ✦ •Heat and hot water included •Ample Closets •Fully Applianced •Community Room •Laundry Facilities •Cats Welcome •Extra Storage •24 Hour Maintainance Auto Parts Autos Wanted THREE RIVERS NICE 2 BR, refrigerator, stove, off-street parking, w/d hook-ups. No pets. 1st, last, security $650 plus utilities. (413)283-5596. USED AUTO PARTS, 91-day guarantee. Large inventory, engines, transmissions, radiators, tires, glass. Excellent service, junk car removal. Amherst-Oakham Auto Recycling Coldbrook Road, Oakham. 1-800-992-0441. $$$ AUTOS WANTED TOP Dollar paid for your unwanted cars, trucks, vans, big and small, running or not. Call 413-534-5400. WARE- 2 TOWNHOUSE APTS.SPACIOUS, SUNNY 3 BR $800 & $850 plus utilities, w/d hook-up, storage. Also Beautiful 2 BR apt. $700. No smoking, no pets. Credit check/references (413)320-5784. PALMER - 2 bed duplex, beautiful, quiet, <5 minutes from pike, garage/ basement, no pets/ smoking, first/ last/ security $900/ mo plus utilities. 339-440-1043. PALMER 2 BR. $925/ mo. 1 mi to Pike. Beautifully renovated. Offstreet parking. Utilities not included. Available March 1. (413)427-2706. PALMER BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED 2 Br apt. $700 plus utilities. No pets, non-smokers. First, last, security and CORI. Call (413)267-5338. PALMER. SINGLE ROOM furnished, frig., micro., TV, utilities, clean, quiet home. No pets. 413967-6555. WARE- TWO BEDROOM, 2nd floor, downtown. Townhouse style. 1st, last $725 month plus utilities (413)967-3976. Commercial Rentals INDUSTRIAL ZONED. FOUR buildings available, 500 to 5,000 sq.ft. Breckenridge St., Palmer. Also entertain offers for sale 10 acres (413)231-3131. WARM WEATHER IS year round in Aruba. The water is safe, and the dining is fantastic. Walk out to the beach. 3-bedroom weeks available. Sleeps 8. $3500. Email: [email protected] for more information. or VISIT WWW.TURLEY.COM TO PLACE YOUR AD DEADLINES: QUABBIN & SUBURBAN – FRIDAY AT NOON HILLTOWNS – MONDAY AT NOON CATEGORY: 1 2 3 Quabbin Village Hills 4 Circulation: 50,500 8 SPENCER: Farmers porch overlooking Lake Whittemore, open KT/DR w/plenty of cabinets, pellet stove in DR. 3 BR, 2 BA, Master has double closets. $234,900 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Base Price $26.00 Dorrinda O’Keefe-Shea Glenn Moulton Jill Stolgitis Mary Hicks Alan Varnum Bruce Martin Joe Chenevert Carolyn Bessette Michael McQueston 978-434-1990 413-967-5463 413-477-8780 508-612-4794 508-867-2727 508-523-0114 508-331-9031 518-618-7188 508-362-0533 www.turley.com FILL OUT AND MAIL THIS MONEY MAKER 7 WARREN: Investors take notice, Handyman Special! 2 BR, spacious rooms, wood floors, screened in porch, being sold “As Is” $79,900 Find your dream place or list your property here today! Vacation Rentals 6 WARE: Motivated Seller, 3 BR colonial with central location and original charm, affordably priced at $89,900 make, more! car or Instant WARELARGE STUDIO apartment. Close to downtown. Electric/ propane heat. Water & sewer included. Good area. First & Security $475/ mo (413)967-7772. 5 EAST BROOKFIELD: New Cape in High Rock Estates, 1st floor Master BR, Master BA glass shower & soaking tub, upscale KT/LR, laundry, half bath, hardwoods. 2nd floor 2 large BR, and BA. $339,900 CASH FOR CARS: Any model or year. We pay Running or not. Sell your truck today. Free towing! offer: 1-800-871-0654. WARE- LARGE 2 bedroom, 1st floor apt. All new kitchen, floors & paint. Updated bath. Water & sewer included. Off-street parking, oil heat. First & security $750/ mo (413)967-7772 Call us for an accurate FREE market analysis. 413-967-6326/800-486-2121 SPENCER: Approximately 75 feet of waterfront on Sugden Resevoir. Property being sold “As Is”, Great price for investor or handyman. $120,000 Call us toll free at 1-800-824-6548 For Rent WARE FRESHLY PAINTED 2 bdrm, first floor, off-street parking, coin-op laundry. HAP subsidized. No pets. (413)323-8707 MONSON. 3 BEDROOM. Completely renovated, propane heat, lower than oil, $100 toward first fill-up. NO PETS!!! $900/ mo. F/L/S (413)783-0192. Mr. Allen. PALMER 1BR - Quiet Secure Country Location. Locked Storage & Laundry in Basement. K/DR Combo - LR-Full Bath. Nice Layout. No Smoke/Pets. 1st/last/sec. $700.00. Breton Est. 413-283-6940 TOOMEY-LOVETT 109 West St. Ware, MA 01082 www.turley.com For Information call (413)967-7755 EHO 17 Convent Hill, Ware, MA FOR RENT 967-7355 for a no cost no obligation market value of your home! ✦ For Rent WESTFIELD BY HU-KE-LAU Completely remodeled, appliances, thermopanes, shingles, shed, 2 bedrooms, 12’x67’. New carpets, floors, windows, doors $59,900 413-593-9961 DASAP.MHVILLAGE.COM REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATES PAGE 1 5 21 Base Price $26.50 22 Base Price $27.00 23 Base Price $27.50 24 Base Price $28.00 25 Base Price $28.50 26 Base Price $29.00 27 Base Price $29.50 28 Base Price $30.00 Suburban Residential Circulation: 59,000 Hilltowns Circulation: 9,800 29 Base Price $30.50 30 Base Price $31.00 31 Base Price $31.50 32 Base Price $32.00 33 Base Price $32.50 34 Base Price $33.00 35 Base Price $33.50 36 Base Price $34.00 37 Base Price $34.50 38 Base Price $35.00 39 Base Price $35.50 40 Base Price $36.00 Buy the Quabbin Village Hills or the Suburban Residential ZONE for $26.00 for 20 words plus 50¢ for each additional word. Add $10 for a second Zone or add $15 to run in ALL THREE ZONES. 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PAGE 1 6 ff o g n i h s u r B A Turley Publication • www.turley.com I Friday, February 27, 2015 the winter blues -WEST BROOKFIELD- By Jennifer Robert Quaboag Current Reporter D Carol Slater paints in the sky. Connie Pratt works on the creating clouds Creating the horizon was the starting point for the project. espite the fact that this make-up session was scheduled last minute, the turn-out for the West Brookfield Senior Center’s “Painting the Winter Blues Away” workshop series was still impressive. This week psychotherapist and painting instructor Paula Pierce led the group through the steps for creating a tranquil painting of a sailboat at sea. “You normally don’t see these colors in the sky but I thought they looked really pretty,” she said, as she introduced the picture that relied heavily on blues, teals and purples. Pierce took the group through putting down layers of paint and then later adding steps that redefined the picture. While the finished product is a lovely keepsake of the day, the painting in not the primary focus of these meetings. “We talk about the blues and depression,” Pierce said. “Ways to overcome feeling down.” Cynthia Norden, director of the senior center, asked Pierce about how people could keep a positive attitude with the weather that has been occurring. “Think positive; find the good,” Pierce said. “We talked in an earlier session about light being the key to a good attitude and snow reflects lots of light.” Pierce was accompanied by her husband, Paul, and her mother, Barbara, for the session and said that her daughter often attends to help out as well. “Everyone in that room is a repeat attender,” assistant director Betty Frew said. “Everyone that comes to this really seems to enjoy it and the paintings that come out of it are really nice.” STRICTLY BUSINESS Join us in supporting local businesses and shop with our advertisers. 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