I need to look ahead at my calendar. I didn’t do that last week and missed saying Happy Valentine’s Day, which was Tuesday, to everyone. Belated greetings to all. Look for half-price chocolates in the stores.

I did look ahead and know that Monday, Feb. 20 is Presidents Day. Town offices, schools, libraries and banks are closed. The stores will be open for Presidents Day sales. This is usually a big time for buying cars.

***

Al Cheever, the administrative assistant at the Bangs Center, told me packets are available for residents who want their state and federal taxes done by volunteers. The packets are in the senior lounge. Fill out the included forms and the required information, return the packet to the center, and schedule the day you want to have the packet picked up by the preparer. There is no human contact.

The service is free.

I am doing it this year, having decided to let someone else do the math.

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The Arcadia Players are having an in-person concert Sunday, Feb. 19 at 3 p.m. at the Wesley Methodist Church in Hadley. The program, “Musicke’s Delights,” features viols. Tickets are available at the door or visit the website: arcadiaplayers.org.

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The Jones Library is having an interesting in-person program Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. Ken Gloss, owner of the Brattle Book Shop in Boston, will speak on book collecting in the Woodbury Room. It’s free.

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I was worried about the Fire and Ice celebration on the Town Common last Saturday given the unseasonably warm weather. However, it went forward. The luminaria were lit and were just as bright without the snow.

The flaming batons being tossed about were witnessed by a large crowd at a safe distance from the flames. The ice sculptures were stunning. The creativity and artistry were splendid. The remnants were still visible Monday. I think I do well when I can get the ice cubes easily out of the tray.

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Another neighbor reported bears knocking down bird feeders on Carriage Lane. Be careful when you go outside.

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Send items for the Lehrer Report to phyllehrer@gmail.com.

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