Happy Lunar New Year to all our Chinese friends and neighbors. Support a local restaurant and do takeout to celebrate.
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Happy Valentine’s Day to everyone. As I say to people, consider yourself embraced. We could all use hugs, but they have to be virtual for now.
Send a card or call someone who needs a human contact. Thanks.
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Good news: Town Manager Paul Bockleman sent me a list of dates for people 75 and older to sign up for the first shot for the COVID vaccine. All the clinics are at the high school.
The dates: Feb. 16, 23 and 24 from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.; Feb. 18 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
Registration will start shortly. Check the town website at www.amherstcovid19.org/vaccine.
When I went last week to get my shot, the site was awash in volunteers. The Amherst Ambassadors wore bright yellow jackets. Steve George was a very good greeter. The people in wheelchairs, with canes or mobility issues, were ushered in directly, no waiting.
The Girl Scouts could make a mint selling cookies to all those waiting in line.
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More good news: Janet Ryan, head of programming and outreach at the Jones Library, said income tax forms have arrived and will be available on the library porch, weather permitting. She said if other forms are needed call the reference desk at 259-3096.
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Wendy Kohler of Amherst sent me an email about the resident director vacancy at the ABC (A Better Chance) House. Sid and Isabel Ferreira are leaving after five years. If interested, details are on the website www.amherstbetterchance.org.
Thanks to the Ferreiras for their service and dedication, much appreciated.
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Jeff Bohne, South Church moderator, sent me an email saying the church is continuing its very popular meal-to-go program with the next event Feb. 20, with pickup from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The pulled pork, chili and corn bread sold out last time.
The menu sound fabulous (dessert is chocolate mouse). Vegetarian and vegan options are available. Order online at southchurchfiddlerspantry.big cartel.com.
You can call 253-2977 to order, but note the office isn’t open all day. The cost is $15. Some of the proceeds benefit local groups as you know if you get Jeff’s reports n this column.
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Seren Derin of Amherst sent an email saying Zonta is continuing its Community Resources for Women Series with a program on Safe Passage Feb. 18 at 6:30 p.m via Zoom. Register at Northampton @Zontadistrict1.org.
She is the vice president of the organization that empowers women through service and advocacy. The local chapter is part of the International Zonta organization.
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Have you noticed? It is still light at 5 p.m. The days are getting longer.
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