USA > Massachusetts > Hampden County > Wilbraham > Wilbraham annual report 1961-1965 > Part 46
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This initial step towards development of efficient operation of our Town Government will fit in most admirably with the recom- mended changes in our governmental setup which are included in this report and which we recommend be accepted and put into operation.
The study committee was confronted with a tremendous prob- lem in presenting our findings and in proposing various recom- mendations for your consideration some of which if accepted may become effective during 1967 and others at some point of time in the future. Therefore, in studying the various phases of Government Administration we developed specific objectives and have followed these objectives in presenting certain facts for your consideration. Our objectives were as follows:
1. To identify the adequacies and inadequacies of our pres- ent public services and to recommend utilization of avail- able manpower, equipment and facilities which will result in the best possible services at the least cost to the tax- payer
2. To gather reliable facts and statistics as to our growth and the need to improve the quality and quantity of public services desired by our citizens, today and in the future.
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3. To anticipate the additional needs and services of the fore- seeable future both on our present basis and future needs.
4. To establish objectives and priority for immediate and long- range improvement of our local governmental operations and public services.
5. To outline programs of action to achieve the goals for the various services and improvements which are anticipated by the committee.
6. And to suggest ways and means of implementation to achieve the end results, subject to acceptance by our towns- people.
A further objective was to enlist the support and involvement of town officials and employees in the development of efficient Governmental functions and a general improvement of public services the respective departments now render.
Inasmuch as this study was requested by the townspeople for any possible improvement in their own government your com- mittee in analysing our present organization and in developing our logic for future needs, concentrated on three main operations, namely: Organization, Administration, and Financial aspects of the various governmental functions.
We have rendered to the Board of Selectmen a most volumin- ous final report of the work of the Study Committee during the past two years. This report contains numerous charts, graphs and statistical information relative to our present governmental operations, our analysis of the operations of other Massachusetts towns as well as the operations of other cities and towns across the nation together with our recommendations for present and future consideration for the improvement of our local govern- mental operations.
It became apparent on completion of the report that it was indeed too voluminous to be included in the Town Report for 1965 in its entirety, hence it is included in Summary form only. The complete original report is on file in the office of the Board of Selectmen and mimeograph copies will be available at the Town Office and at the Town Meeting.
A careful analysis of our present organization clearly empha- sizes the need for some reorganization along functional lines, if we are to render the various public services that will be needed in the future. This type of organization might appear satisfactory for a small town of 2,500 population but not for a community
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of 25,000 people which we may reach by 1975. As the complexi- ties of government increase yearly by demands from State and Federal Legislation, reorganization along functional lines would be a more orderly development. Many local governments have "grown like Topsy" and have made no attempt to departmental- ize, combine, merge, consolidate or co-ordinate responsibilities of a similar nature under one head for efficient and economical operation.
Our work these past two years included the study of Repre- sentative Town Meetings, Selectmen Town Managers, Executive Secretary and Town Manager forms of government. However, we felt that none of these forms at this time would be a solution to our immediate problems.
Further study indicated that our immediate goal should be the establishment of a Department of Public Works and a Depart- ment of Public Safety. A further goal should be the establish- ment in the future of a Department of Public Health and Wel- fare and a Department of General Government and Financial Administration. These changes in our present form of adminis- tration will definitely be of assistance to our Selectmen and will increase the efficiency of our operations.
Our recommendations are as follows:
For present consideration:
(a) Establishment of a Department of Public Works.
(b) Establishment of a Department of Public Safety. For future consideration:
(c) Establishment of a Department of Public Health and Welfare.
(d) Establishment of a Department of General Govern- ment and Financial Administration.
Briefly stated, our recommendations for present consideration of the establishment of the Departments of Public Works and Public Safety are made for the following reasons and considera- tions:
For the Department of Public Works:
1. To obtain efficient operation by utilizing town em- ployees' skill and town equipment on any of the town's projects.
2. By scheduling the work in the various divisions so that the maximum use of the town's equipment may be ob- tained.
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3. By the centralized purchasing of the materials used by all divisions.
4. Resultant lower costs.
For the Department of Public Safety:
1. The more effective use of manpower and equipment.
2. Faster, better, more efficient service to our townspeople.
3. More widely trained personnel.
4. Lower costs.
5. Consolidation of all Communication Systems for emer- gencies.
6. Better coverage for Ambulance, First Aid and Rescue Operations.
7. Timetable for adoption most opportune.
8. Other services classified under "Protection of Persons and Property" can be gradually integrated.
We appreciate the opportunity which was given to us to make a study of Town Government Administration and urge your acceptance of our recommendations. Your acceptance will be another step towards the efficient and economical administration of our local governmental operations.
JESSE L. RICE SARKIS SERDARIAN
ALBERT HOWES
ALBERT E. NEALE FREDERICK M. COHN ROGER T. HINTZE, Chairman
Water Commissioners' Report
In 1965 there were 50 new services installed, compared to 47 for 1964; and 100 for 1963.
At the Special Town Meeting in September, $280,000 was appropriated for water main extension in the southern end of Town. An engineering firm, Tighe and Bond, has been engaged to do the engineering phase of this work which was started in November 1965. Pipe laying is scheduled for April 1966, with substantial completion by August 1966.
At this same Town Meeting, the 1959 Betterment Assess- ments were rescinded. The Water Board adopted new regula- tions for allocating to the abutters the costs of water main exten- sions. These new regulations provide greater administrative flexi- bility and homeowner equity under present day conditions.
Under the five year plan of eliminating 2" iron water mains, an additional 200 feet was replaced in 1965.
WILLIAM R. HANNAH, Chairman
WILLARD P. WILLIS
DONALD STUART
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Playground Commission Report
The year 1965 proved to be a very successful year for the Playground Department. The success of this program is largely due to the fine cooperation on the part of the instructors, par- ticipants, and the various Town departments.
The recreational program lasted six weeks during July and August. As in the past, the program was under the supervision of Mr. Richard P. Spencer. Adult Assistants were Louis Verani, Mrs. Helen Szaban, Marios Kacoyannakis, Miss Katharine Par- ker and William Thurlow, Jr. Activities took place at Memorial School, Pines School, Stony Hill School and Mile Tree School. For the third consecutive year Spec Pond was used in conjunc- tion with the regular Lions Club summer program. This program includes the basics of water safety, nature study, and the use of boats and canoes. The recreational program included arts and crafts, group sports, group games, and supervised use of play- ground equipment.
To keep up with our ever-expanding needs, the Commission, together with the invaluable help of the School Department, con- structed a baseball diamond at Mile Tree School. Normal main- tenance was carried out on our other fields at Grassy Hollow and Memorial Hollow. To improve the use of these facilities all the backstops were repaired. The Commission rendered assistance to the Wilbraham Heights Community Association in developing Town property on Manchonis Road Extension. We anticipate even greater assistance to this group in 1966. We feel that civic mindedness in this endeavor should be fostered and encouraged and the Commission will never hesitate in cooperating with these groups.
The year 1965 was successful. The year 1966 will be greater yet with the cooperation on the part of the citizens of Wilbraham.
The Commission wishes to extend its sincere thanks to the Highway Department, Fire Department, Police Department, St. Cecilia's Men's Club and the Spec Pond Recreation Staff for their cooperation in our endeavors. We wish also to extend thanks to Mr. Irving H. Agard and the School Department for their industry and assistance.
CHARLES LOCKWOOD, Chairman NORMAN HUGHES
ROBERT LABROAD EDWARD MALZINSKI
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Aid to Agriculture and Hampden County Improvement League
Agriculture Work
Primary emphasis in all agriculture projects during the past year has been the improvement in the management capabilities of interested farmers in the Hampden County area. Agents in Hampden County assisted farmers through meetings, circular letters and individual farm visits throughout the year. Specific information requested was available from agents at all times.
4.H Club Work
During the year there were 66 boys and girls enrolled in the various projects offered. 18 local leaders assisted the County club agents and State extension specialists in conducting the projects. The leaders incurred expenses totalling $22.75.
Home Department Work
During the year, 53 women attended 23 meetings or demon- strations conducted by 31 leaders assisted by the County home demonstration agents and State extension specialists. There were 15 different projects offered. The local leaders incurred expenses totalling $54.18.
The appropriation made by your Town was used by the agents of the Trustees for Wilbraham residents only.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
1965 Appropriation
$200.00
1964 Unexpended Balance 35.94
Total Available for 1965
$235.94
Total Expenditure in 1965 76.93
Total Available for 1966 $159.01
Recommended Appropriation for 1966 $75.00
ALBERT H. FULLER, Clerk
Plumbing Inspector's Report
For the period from January 1, 1965 through December 31, 1965, permits issued for septic tanks, plumbing and gas installa- tions totaled 424, and the break down is as follows:
Septic Tanks: 125 new installations; 16 repairs or alterations Plumbing: 115 new installations; 29 repairs or alterations
Gas Piping: 139 installations
HARRY L. KING
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1
Veterans' Service Department Report
The following report is submitted for the year ended December 31, 1965:
1965
%
1964
%
Expenditures :
Ordinary Benefit
$6,687.15
91.0
$6,943.05
62.4
Burial Allowance
250.00
2.2
Hospitalization and/or Medical
659.96
9.0
3,938.05
35.4
Total Expenditure for Veterans'
Benefits
7,347.11
100.0
11,131.10 100.0
Administrative Expenses
115.92
113.35
Total Expenditure
7,463.03
11,244.45
Less: Recoveries of Veterans'
Benefits
1,530.00
460.00
Net Expenditure
$5,933.03
$10,784.45
During 1965 eight (8) cases were aided as compared to four- teen (14) in 1964. The analysis above reflects the cost and its distribution.
All cases aided were Wilbraham settled (5 years or more resi- dence in Wilbraham). In view of this a net reimbursement of 50% of the total expenditure for Veterans' Benefits, net of re- coveries, for 1965 can be expected from the State.
All veterans residing in Town are invited to avail themselves of the services of this office. Office hours are from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. each Monday evening at the Town Hall, East Longmeadow. GEORGE A. DUSENBERRY, Agent
Animal Inspector's Report
A total of 360 animals were inspected and found to be clean and free from disease. A break down consists of - 151 dairy cows, 3 bulls, 24 beef cows, 63 horses, 40 goats and 79 sheep.
Four dairy cows from out-of-state were shipped into Town and were inspected at the owner's farm. All were found to be clean and free from disease. ROBERT A. CONVERSE
Fire Commissioners' Report
To the Honorable Board of Selectmen and the Citizens of the Town of Wilbraham, Massachusetts:
We respectfully submit the Annual Report of the Fire Commis- sioners for 1965.
Ten meetings were held during the year.
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On September 2, 1965, permanent Fireman Daniel Merritt was granted a leave of absence to serve in the United States Navy. Raymond Peter Yamer of 11 Weston Street was employed to fill the vacancy.
Our Reo Fire Truck, purchased in 1938, gave out completely on December 9, 1965 making it necessary to ask the voters for permission to purchase a new fire truck.
Due to the resignation of Commissioner Jimmie D. Staggs, the Board of Selectmen appointed Robert T. Welch of Wood- land Road to fill the vacancy.
For the help and cooperation of the citizens of the Town and the faithful manner in which Chief Tupper and the members of the department have performed their duty, our sincere thanks.
OREN K. GILBERT, Chairman
J. WESLEY NOWELL
ROBERT T. WELCH
Fire Department Report
Telephone number 6-3111, our emergency telephone for in- coming calls, is to be used for reporting fires, emergencies and ambulance service only. Keep this number posted by your tele- phone and dial it yourself, giving your name and address, what type of emergency and stay with the dispatcher until all informa- tion is given. By dialing Operator, much delay is involved. On all other calls pertaining to Fire Department, please dial 6-3122. This is very important.
Fire Loss
Buildings (51)
$16,256.00
Contents 2,445.25
Assessed Valuation 568,590.00
Department responded to 424 alarms: 51 buildings, 121 grass and brush, 24 automobiles, 1 bulldozer, 11 dump, 1 freight car, 4 gasoline spills, 1 bomb scare, 17 miscellaneous, 13 mutual aid out of town, 6 false alarms and 174 emergencies.
Thirty six permits were issued for installation of oil burning equipment, 21 for L.P. gas installations, and 17 permits for dyna- mite. Eighty five extinguishers were recharged. All school and public buildings were inspected quarterly and found in order. Inspection reports were submitted; 117 inspections were made.
Sadly, after many years, I am submitting my last fire and forest warden reports. I must retire March 31, 1966. The Town has been very good to me and has shown great faith in me as evi- 54
denced by the way they supported my judgement in building the Fire Department up to its present status. The fire personnel and all Town departments have always given me excellent co-opera- tion and I wish to thank them and also the people of the Town for a most satisfying experience as their Fire Chief.
I wish to say at this time that I will always be available to help the Town and my successor at any time in any way that I can. It has been a great honor to be able to serve the Town I love. I hope my record will show I have been worthy of it.
RALPH E. TUPPER, SR., Fire Chief
ROSTER OF THE DEPARTMENT
Commissioners: Oren K. Gilbert, Chairman; J. Wesley Nowell, Robert T. Welch.
Permanent: Ralph E. Tupper, Sr., Chief; Cyril Woods, Assistant Chief; Robert C. Dietz, David Macdonald, Robert Macauley, Richard Cochran, James Denniss, Raymond Yamer, Wayne Rice, Armed Service, Daniel Merritt, Armed Service.
Medical Officer: Dr. Richard Butler.
First Aid Instructor: Charles Dorey.
Dispatchers: Mary Chapman, Berenice Tupper, Martha Woods.
Call Firemen: Raymond Beach, Jr., Assistant Chief; Roger Whitehill, Captain; Bryant Carpenter, Lieutenant; Andrew Grzybowski, George King, Phillip Shaw, Jr., Harold Porter, Clifton Scott, Ronald VonFlatern, Wil- liam Tupper, Walter Howe, Jr.
Auxiliary Firemen: Stephen Eisold, Wayne Fisher, Richard Motyka, Douglas Beach, David Kaynor, Patrick Rossall, Roger Hitchcock, Brian Dollar, Jeff Howe, Leonard VonFlatern, Sr., John Campsie, Charles Dorey, Karl Tupper, Thomas Mascaro, Peter Boden, Tim Maderia, Pete Maderia, Ted Gebeau, Jr., Bruce Sigsbee, John Shaughnessy.
Forest Warden's Report
Two thousand one hundred and thirty seven (2,137) permits were issued for open air fires. At numerous times of the year no burning in the open is allowed. For a permit to burn during the year dial 6-3122. Our emergency telephone 6-3111 should not be used for this purpose. The only incinerator that can be used in the open air without a permit must be one that releases no sparks or open flame. The wire basket type is not allowed in Wilbraham. If in doubt when purchasing an incinerator call the Fire Chief for information.
Deputy Forest Wardens: John Leary, John Chrzanowski, Steve Lopata, Terrance Reidy, Cyril Woods, Robert C. Dietz, David Macdonald, Robert Macauley, Raymond Beach, Jr.
RALPH E. TUPPER, SR.
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In Appreciation
Each year, immediately after Town Meeting and elections, it becomes the duty of your Selectmen to make appointments to the several committees and commissions necessary for efficient operation of the many components of town management. These people, together with elected members of various boards and offices, form the operating structure of your Town Government. Very few of these posts carry even minor financial remuneration. Most of them are simply a service to the town, the only reward to the members being the satisfaction of a job well done.
To all of these people, the town is greatly indebted. Without their contributions of time, energy and ability it would be impos- sibly expensive to carry on the many functions of Town Govern- ment. The service they give is beyond price - one can hardly estimate the cost of replacing them with a paid staff of com- parable ability.
This year, as is too often the case, we are losing several of Wilbraham's most devoted workers, some through business moves or press of personal duties, others for reasons of health or retire- ment. In expressing our thanks to all of these citizens, it seems fitting that a rather special tribute be paid to two of our retiring workers.
Pearl R. Kinney, a member of the Board of Appeals since 1953, has found it necessary for reasons of health, to tender his resignation. He will be greatly missed. Born in Moores, New York in 1879, Mr. Kinney came to live in Massachusetts at the age of seven, and as he grew to manhood in the Lowell and Bil- lerica areas, he became interested and extremely well-informed in matters of civic government and management, serving in sev- eral capacities in his Town.
In 1943, the senior Kinneys came, with their son Allan, to live on Stony Hill Road, where they transformed an old farm into a charming, modern home. During his 22 years' residence in Wil- braham, Mr. Kinney has maintained a constantly alert and in- telligent interest in Town affairs, and his participation in our councils will be missed. The Town owes him much for his years of service.
Retiring on March 31st, after 46 years' service, is our capable and devoted Fire Chief Ralph E. Tupper. Since 1919, when he became an unpaid volunteer fireman, Ralph Tupper has had one major interest in his life - providing fire protection and
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teaching fire prevention to the residents of Wilbraham. Each year the scope of his duties became broader. In 1937 he was named Assistant Chief; in 1944 he was appointed Chief, and in 1948 the responsibilities of Fire Warden were added to his duties. All of these duties he has performed superlatively well.
In these years, Wilbraham has grown from a New England country village to a pleasant residential town, with a well- equipped system of fire protection, modern equipment and well- trained personnel. For all of this we owe sincere thanks to the devotion of an outstanding Fire Chief and Warden, whose feel- ings are best stated in his own words from his report for the year 1965 - "It has been a great honor to serve the Town I love." To Chief Tupper the townspeople wish many happy years of retirement.
-
-
Fire Chief Ralph E. Tupper
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Electrical Inspector's Report
From the period starting January 1, 1965 and ending Decem- ber 31, 1965, there were 242 electrical permits issued at fees rang- ing from $2.00 to $15.00. This is a decrease of 30 permits from 1964 when there were 272 electrical permits issued. The permits for 1965 were for the following:
115 new residences
41 service increases from 30 or 60 amp. to 100 amp.
32 additional outlets
5 commercial buildings
8 dryers, oil burners, etc. (separate from new build- ings)
38 additions including refinishing cellars, attics, etc.
3 new garages (separate from new houses)
WILLIAM E. FITZGERALD
Assessors' Report
In 1965 there was more Industrial Business and Commercial Real Estate Construction in our town than we have seen for a number of years. The new industrial buildings completed were the Wilbraham Manufacturing Company Plant and the sizeable addition to the Friendly Ice Cream Corporation Plant. The busi- ness and commercial buildings included K's Diner, Alberici's Car Wash and the R. P. Pidgeon, Inc. Real Estate Office. Another large addition to the taxable properties is the completion of the Western Massachusetts Electric Company Power Transmission Line. These additions to taxable properties plus the continued high rate of residential construction will increase considerably the total valuation of Real Estate for the year 1966.
In December of 1965, Frederick J. Cummings was appointed to the Board to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Whit- ney C. Stiles.
There were 130 Veterans' abatements granted in 1965 for a dollar value of $7,087 and 63 abatements for elderly persons over 70 for a dollar value of $6,351.53.
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The figures used in setting the 1965 tax rate follow:
Appropriations to be raised by taxation $2,189,075.37 Appropriations taken from available funds 175,265.92 $2,364,341.29
Deficits due to abatements in excess of overlay of prior years
1,934.40
Tax and Assessments:
State Parks and Reservations
5,190.22
Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Bills
971.55
County Tax
41,121.23
Underestimate of 1964 County Tax
350.31
Overlay of current year
18,881.97
68,449.68
$2,432,790.97
ESTIMATED RECEIPTS AND AVAILABLE FUNDS
Income Tax
Corporation Taxes
$148,467.27 65,102.61
Reimbursement on account of publicly
owned land
1,404.40
Old Age Meal Tax
2,327.46
Motor Vehicle and Trailer Excise
254,000.00
Licenses
13,700.00
Fines
800.00
Special Assessments
1,800.00
General Government
3,500.00
Protection of Persons and Property
1,200.00
Health and Sanitation
7,000.00
Charities (other than Federal grants)
20,000.00
Old Age Assistance (other than Federal grants)
9,600.00
Veterans' Services
1,900.00
School (Funds from Income Tax not to be included)
55,207.20
Libraries
900.00
Public Service Enterprises
91,000.00
Interest : On Taxes and Assessments
5,700.00
State Assistance - School Construction
107,314.08
Farm Animal Excise
100.00
Over estimate of previous year
337.59
Taken from Available Funds
175,265.92
966,626.53
Net amount to be raised by taxation on Property
$1.466,164.44
Valuation of Personal Property
$2,441,595.00
Tax on Personal Property
62,260.67
Valuation of Real Estate Tax on Real Estate
1,403,903.77
Total Tax on Property
$1,466,164.44
Tax Rate per $1,000 - $25.50
School Rate $17.60
General Rate $7.90
55,055,050.00
HAROLD K. JONES ALLAN R. KINNEY FREDERICK J. CUMMINGS
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Report of the Police Department
To the Board of Selectmen:
I herewith submit the Annual Report of the Police Depart- ment for the year ending December 31, 1965.
ROSTER OF THE DEPARTMENT
Chief, John S. Leary. Sergeant, John J. Chrzanowski. Regular Patrol- men: Newton W. Goewey, Jr., Terrence T. Reidy, Alton L. McDonald, Robert Sweeney, Norton Brainard. Reserve Patrolmen: Stephen E. Lopata, Albert R. Gouvin, Jr., John Y. Hess, Robert Converse, Richard Poulin. Auxiliary Police: Sgt. John J. Connor, Sgt. Wellington C. Rose, Sgt. Ralph M. Kilcourse, Sgt. Emeric J. Wyzik, Joseph Cloutier, Lawrence P. Cloutier, Edward E. Dearborn, Frederick J. Macauley, John Ward, Morrison Marelli, Howard S. McIntosh, Donald A. Bump, Walla Paradis, Alexander Murphy, William H. Rademaekers, Phillip Britten, Arthur W. Hunt, Jr., Stanley J. Pabis. School Traffic Officers: Mrs. Mary Stry. charz, Mrs. Helen Christenson, Mrs. Marjorie Goewey, Mrs. Joann Zeli- wicz, Mrs. Pearle A. Treat. Dispatchers: Mrs. Shirley Collette, Mrs. Nancy Bailey, Mrs. Pearle Treat.
ARRESTS FOR THE YEAR
Crimes Against the Person: Assault by means of a dangerous weapon, 1; Assault and Battery, 7; Armed Robbery and Rape, 1. Crime Against Property: Setting Fires to Woodland, 2; Breaking and Entering and Lar- ceny, 5; Larceny, 4; Using a Motor Vehicle without Authority, 2; Wanton Destruction of Property, 1; Disposal of rubbish (Illegal), 2. Crimes Against the Public Order, etc .: Telling fortunes without a license, 2; Dis- turbing the Peace, 17; Driving while intoxicated, 2; Drunkenness, 23; Operating so as to endanger, 27; Operating an unregistered and uninsured vehicle, 21; Operating without a license, 16; Speeding, 180; Desertion, 1; AWOL, 3; Escapee, 1; Non-support, 1; Possessing a dangerous weapon, 1; Defective Equipment, 8; Passing over a solid line, 52; No sticker, 7; Red Light violations, 20; Stop sign violations, 39; School bus violations, 7; Fugitive from justice, 1; Operating a motor vehicle after suspension or revocation, 14; Vagrancy, 6; Giving a false name to a police officer, 1; Illegal fireworks, 2; Runaway, 5; Insane persons, 2; Passing stolen checks, 2. Total 361. Disposition of cases: Fined, 291; Filed, 32; Probation, 12; Sentenced to House of Correction, 8; Sentenced to Youth Service Board, 7; Cases pending, 4; Found not guilty, 7. Total 361.
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