Hello Westfield, and especially Ward 3. As I said some time ago that to not be bored, and to have some meaningful purpose I entitled myself a Community Advocate….Now that our first snow fall has come, and before the next one…A shared concern that I have brought to the attention of our Good Mayor. And, that is snowplows that push snow back onto our walks. OK driveways are hapless victims, but when you end up with more snow, and it is wet and heavier; NOT good. One of my neighbors used their snow blower to do the sidewalks on Arnold St., and, shortly thereafter they were covered again (which does not have a tree belt). As mentioned, I am 70, and low income. I now have to shovel it, ok I am whining, but in apologizing to those walking by the house, and while walking Ollie, I was told that a lot of other homes experienced the same thing. Mr. Billips, anyone can the plowers be instructed in not pushing the snow back on to the sidewalks.
Well, I had rapid response from Mayor Sullivan, as usual, and he informed me that he has contacted DPW to remind the drivers, city and vender, regarding this problem, so hopefully it will help.
But, this is Thanksgiving, and I would like to share a few Thanks… First to Patrick Berry for enabling me to use this means to speak with the people of Westfield. Next, to all those wonderful and considerate people that slow or stop when I and Ollie are crossing the street. She is nearly 15, and has slowed down a lot. As well, all those who stop, and ask how she is doing. It is so good to know that so many care about my dog. In these times of angst it is nice to know that there are so many good people willing to take a moment to be so kind and considerate. YES, world, there are still good and kind people still here.
Next, I want to offer my thanks to the good people who work at Stop and Shop on Main St. Thank you all for your friendliness, and taking as moment to share a joke; and the customers who join in. It is kind of like Cheers where nearly knows your name. When you are an old guy who lives alone with my dog and cat; it is so nice to go places where people are friendly and helpful. And, no one hits me because of my jokes…only kidding, they are great. Along with Stop and Shop, the people at Westfield Bank, particularly on Arnold St., who, too, share in my humor, but also have done so much to help me with banking issues, and getting documentation for the benefits I depend upon. Next, the former Rite Aid, now Walgreens on E. Silver…These folks have literally saved my life when I was having problems with my prescriptions. They too also share in my humor, making it a more than wonderful place to go.
Also next, Westfield Gas and Electric for the low income assistance they have provided. It is nice to know that there are businesses that care too. Another next are the wonderful people at city hall, and the other public employees for their friendliness, and helpfulness. They are too often so underrated for all that they do for us, and worse unappreciated. Well, you are appreciated by me. This includes, our Police and Fire Fighters; I usually try to say hi, or at least wave, as I see them. Why not show a moment of appreciation and respect for all the good that they do? The last group is at Westfield Technical Academy, with whom I work as a VIPS Greeter at TIGER’S PRIDE. The admin, the staff, the teachers, and especially the students who stop by and chat with me. And, especially, I want to congratulate the WTA soccer team on their success. But, not just WTA, but all the others in admin., especially Superintendent Czaporowski who puts up with my suggestions. And, I am giving myself a pat on the back: my therapist’s office is above the Odyssey Book Store in So. Hadley; they have a free stuff box by their door, in checking it out I discovered a lot of good stuff for our younger students: current interests and relatable to them, including social issues. I have been able to take a bunch of and bring it to Franklin Ave., school, and to Highland. It is not much, but am told it is most appreciated, and is in use to their teachers and students. It can often be the little things that can mean a lot. Thank you all for your kind words and have a real Thankful giving Thanksgiving. Your former Ward 3 City Councilor, Brian Hoose…[email protected].
