Valentine Reminders Plus

Most of today’s news could have waited—but it’s really icky outdoors, and I thought people might like a cheery message. I hope you are all staying safe and snug.

Sustainability Study Feedback Needed

The Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont Regional School Districts are seeking feedback on their Sustainability Study to address the trends of declining enrollment, rising operational costs, relatively flat state aid, and increasing needs of students. The 2Districts8Towns review has looked at five options for community consideration, ranging from no change to consolidation in a single campus.

Six community meetings are planned, starting on February 25. The meetings will include a session at Hawlemont Regional School on Wednesday, March 19, at 6:30pm (in person with Zoom option); and at Mohawk Trail Regional School on Thursday, March 20, also at 6:30pm (in person with Zoom option). An all-virtual meeting will be held on Thursday, March 6, at 6:30pm (Zoom link). For more information, including on meetings at Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School, Sanderson Academy, and Colrain Central School, see https://www.2districts8towns.org/ or read this note from the group in charge of the study.

Volunteering at LIfePath

LifePath is looking for volunteers. When my mother was ill in the last year of her life, she and I both treasured the lovely woman who came to talk with her and hold her hand. According to experts, volunteering can be good for you. For more information, visit https://lifepathma.org/stories/volunteering-is-good-for-your-health-2/.

Reminder: HAY Workshops

As I noted in previous newsletters, Hawlemont’s HAY Program is offering two workshops soon: Hager’s Jams and Jellies on Saturday, February 22, and Beyond Flowering Plants: Helping Pollinators Year Round on Saturday, March 22. Each begins at 10 a.m. and costs $20 per person.  To enroll in either or both, contact HAY teacher Jennifer Sinistore, jsinistore@mtrsd.org.

Play Groups at the Hawlemont Gym

At this time of year, small people are in need of safe, warm activities. Hawlemont is sponsoring fun time for children aged six or under, along with a caregiver, on the first and third Saturdays of each month from 9:30 to 11 a.m. For more information, contact Melissa Pincus at mepincus@mtrsd.org.

Special-Education Parent Advisory Council

Virtual meetings happen on a monthly basis for mutual support and information sharing– via ZOOM–with morning meetings on February 28 and March 28 at  9 a.m. and evening meetings on February 11 and March 11 at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page or email mohawksepac@gmail.com

Reminder: Valentine Crafts

Don’t forget the crafting at the library this Saturday—just before we get (gasp!) more snow.

Speaking of Valentine’s Day

I wish you all a wonderful February 14. It’s always nice to pay tribute to those we love. Valentine’s Day is definitely not just for lovers, however. I hope all of us will remember lonely people next Friday. I love getting calls or cards when I’m feeling a bit isolated, and I’m sure you know of others who feel the same way. Let’s spread love all over Hawley!

Warmly,

Tinky Weisblat
Gal Friday
Town of Hawley