In its first regular meeting of 2026, the first with all of the newly-elected councilors and Koni Denham’s first as president, the Easthampton City Council set the stage for a successful and productive new year.
Page 4
Fundraiser at Nini’s Ristorante to help support future dog park
The Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park and Nini’s Ristorante are inviting the public to come “Raise some Dough” for the future Easthampton Dog Park inside Nonotuck Park.
Page 4
NORTHAMPTON
American Farmland Trust receives farmland protection grants
The American Farmland Trust in Northampton was awarded close to $274,000 in grants to support farmland protection in various capacities.
Page 5
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY
New terms begin for elected officials
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
NORTHAMPTON — The latest iteration of city government to represent Northampton were officially sworn in on Monday, Jan. 5, inside the Northampton Senior Center.
Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra was sworn in for what will be her second term as mayor following a reelection bid where she edged out challenger Jillian Duclos by fewer than 100 votes.
When speaking during her inaugural address, Sciarra noted that this would be her sixth oath taken for the city. She previously served as a city councilor before becoming mayor.
“As of today, 50 different people have served in those capacities over the past 12 years. The rough equivalent of two complete turnovers for each body in a little more than a decade. That’s so many people who want and had the opportunity to participate in our elected body is the sign of a healthy local democracy,” said Sciarra.
Sciarra also thanked those who ran and those who continue to engage in the city’s issues for being a part of conversations, whether in agreement or not on an issue.
“Of course, in any democracy, there will be disagreements. That is the beauty of democracy,” Sciarra said. “When we recognized that and we embrace it, we can have any difference of opinion and get the most done for our community.”
The newest City Council and School Committee members were also inaugurated during the ceremony, bringing notable turnover for both bodies. Five new City Councilors – Ward 1’s Gwen
Top, Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra gives her inaugural address alongside the newly elected City Council and School Committee after being sworn in for a second term. Bottom, the latest iteration of the Northampton City Council is sworn in.
Reminder Publishing photos by Trent Levakis
Operations Director: Curtis Panlilio
Executive Editor: Chris Maza
Managing Editors: Dennis Hackett, Ryan Feyre
Staff Writers: Sarah Heinonen, Deb Gardner, Amy Porter, Trent Levakis, Cliff Clark, Tyler Garnet, Peter Tuohy
Graphic Design Manager: Beth Thurber
Graphic Design Department: Leigh Catchepaugh, Lorie Perry, Sophia McClellan, Susan Bartlett, Jim Johnson-Corwin, Molly Arnio
Sales Manager: Scott Greene
Account Executives: Matt Mahaney, Paula Dimauro, Lisa Nolan, Jeanette Grenier, Paul Poutre, Andy Shaw, Laura Tassistro
Classified Account Managers:
Roxanne Miller-Longtin, Evan Marcyoniak, Shannon Spada
Sales Support: Carolyn Napolitan
Financial Department: Nancy Banning
Circulation Department: Nate Halla
Toy for Joy rides late surge to strong finish
By Ron Chimelis Special to Reminder Publishing
A late surge of generosity gave a strong finishing kick to the 103rd edition of the Toy for Joy Christmas campaign.
Thanks to the heartfelt donations of local and regional citizens, businesses and organizations, the 2025 drive brought in $94,317. Under the guidance of first-year Captain Stacy McNeil, and backed by Salvation Army social services manager Danielle LaTaille and dozens of invaluable volunteers, the total rallied in the final weeks.
“Wow, what an incredible show of generosity by the community in support of Toy for Joy. We are so deeply grateful
New Term
Nabad, Ward 3’s Laurie Loisel, Ward 5’s Aline Davis, Ward 6’s Chris Stratton, and Meg Robbins for at-large – join reelected members Ward 2’s Deb Klemer, Ward 4’s Jeremy Dubs, Ward 7’s Rachel Maiore, and At-Large City Councilor Garrick Perry. Maiore was later elected as the council’s new president and Klemer was chosen as the body’s new vice president.
Seven new School Committee members were sworn in during the inauguration ceremony, bringing a majority of new faces to the group. Seven of the committee’s nine members did not seek reelection for the upcoming term.
These newcomers on the School Committee include atlarge members Tiffany Jewell and Roberta “Robbie” Saner Sullivan, Ward 1’s Alena Bartoli, Ward 3’s Renika Montgomery-Tamakloe, Ward 5’s Amy Martyn, Ward 6’s Cynthia Mahoney and Ward 7’s Valerie Reiss. Ward 4 incumbent Michael Stein was reelected for this new term.
Not inaugurated during the ceremony was Ward 2 committee member Anat Weisenfreund. Per the city’s charter, Weisenfreund was sworn in following the certification of the November election, as the seat was left vacant in early 2025 after previous committee member Karen Foster resigned.
Weisenfreund was appointed through an interim role to the vacant seat in early 2025 and ran for it this past November. When a newly elected official wins what was a vacant seat, they are inaugurated following the election.
Other officials sworn in during the inauguration ceremony included the trustees of Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, trustees of Forbes Library and the elector under the Oliver Smith Will.
The ceremony was led by Judge Gail L. Perlman and invocation and benediction was given by Rabbi Jacob Fine and Rev. Dr. Andrea Ayvazian, respectively. A
for all of your contributions. We couldn’t have done it without you,” McNeil said.
The Salvation Army sponsors the campaign. McNeil was moved by how many people participated, allowing Toy for Joy to maintain its place as a standard bearer for charitable giving in Western Massachusetts.
Families and children were served at Salvation Army Citadels in Springfield, Holyoke and Greenfield. In Springfield alone, more than 1,600 families and 4,300 children experienced the joy of Christmas gifts through Toy for Joy.
In the final days of the drive, many generous donors helped raise the final total. Always a set of loyal contributors, the Path-
finder Regional School of Three Rivers School Committee joined with Superintendent Eric Duda to donate $235. Matching donations from The Republican employees totalled $2,350.
From the law offices of Mark E. Salamone came $972. Lia Toyota answered the children’s need in a huge way with $2,500, as did Connecticut Valley Artesian Well with $1,000. Robert and Roberta Bolduc continued their leadership in charitable giving with $2,500. Joseph O’Brien gave $1,000, with Caroline Gruszka ($250), and a $300 donation was given in memory of Michael J. Farrell, “Mugsy” Silansky and Paul “Sammy” Samble.
Not to be overlooked were the hundreds and even thousands of dollars given anonymously, or the donations of any size by citizens who were determined to do their part in making this a Merry Christmas for the children. Plans are already being discussed for the 104th edition of Toy for Joy, which will roll out in the fall of 2026. The Salvation Army, volunteers who helped the cause and sponsoring media (The Republican, Reminder Publishing, MassLive and El Pueblo Latino).
All of those involved have deep and profound gratitude for those who participated to make so many children happy at Christmas, and look forward to the 2026 Toy for Joy campaign next fall.
musical performance was given by the Young at Heart Chorus.
In the closing of her speech, Sciarra said it is another challenging time for the city as newly elected officials take office facing both challenges locally and federally. With that in mind, Sciarra said it was important for all elected officials to remember collabo-
ration is vital in order to best represent constituents.
“We are more than bureaucrats and key systems operating. We have an obligation to the present and to look towards the future. An obligation to lead with integrity and care to create a resilient, equitable and thriving community for all and that is the same for years to come,” said Sciarra. “These aren’t isolated issues. They’re interconnected and Northampton’s future depends on treating them as part of one shared vision of affordability, accessibility, sustainability, and equity. And we need a solid fiscal foundation so we can address the needs of today with a responsible eye for tomorrow.”
Top, the latest iteration of the Northampton School Committee is sworn in. Bottom, Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra is sworn in for her second term as Northampton mayor.
Reminder Publishing photos by Trent Levakis
Sanborn appointed by Hometown Financial Group
EASTHAMPTON — Hometown Financial Group, the multibank holding company for bankESB, bankHometown and North Shore Bank, and its Abington Bank and Colonial Federal Savings Bank divisions, announced the appointment of H. Scott Sanborn as its new executive vice president, chief commercial banking officer. Sanborn brings 36 years of banking experience to the role, along with a strong record of leadership, community involvement and commercial banking expertise.
In his new role, Sanborn will oversee all aspects of commercial banking across Hometown Financial Group’s family of banks, including commercial lending, relationship development and stra-
tegic growth. Sanborn, a respected local leader on the south shore and metro south, will be based in Abington Bank’s Holbrook location. His long-standing involvement in the community and deep understanding of the local market will enhance the bank’s presence and further strengthen its commitment to serving customers. He brings a profound knowledge of the region’s communities, businesses, and local priorities and his strong local relationships and commitment to supporting the needs of residents and businesses will help advance the bank’s strategic growth across the region.
Sanborn, most recently with HarborOne Bank, served as ex- ecutive vice president, chief
lending officer. His distinguished career also includes senior leadership roles at TD Bank, Sovereign Bank, and Fleet Bank, where he helped guide business banking teams, commercial lending strategies and regional growth initiatives.
“We are thrilled to welcome Scott to the Hometown Financial leadership team,” said Matthew S. Sosik, chairman and CEO of Hometown Financial Group.
“His extensive background in commercial banking, combined with his passion for developing strong customer relationships, aligns perfectly with our mission and values. We look forward to the impact he will make across our banks and for the business-
es we serve.” Sanborn holds a bachelor’s degree in international politics from Wesleyan University and a master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Finance from Babson College. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to the community serving on numerous boards and committees including the Spirit of Adventure Council — Scouting America, New England Certified, the Metro South Chamber of Commerce and the United Way Leadership Campaign and Fundraising Committee. He has also contributed his leadership to the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and the Emerging Leaders Program at the University of Massachusetts.
Amherst accepting Community Development Block Grant proposals
AMHERST — The town of Amherst is accepting proposals for Community Development Block Grant funding until Friday, Jan. 23 at noon. CDBG grants are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents in the community by supporting projects that will benefit low- to moderate-income individuals and neighborhoods. The CDBG Advisory Committee, with assistance from town staff, oversees the application and public input process.
Project eligibility
Proposals can be submitted for social service or non-social service projects by various parties, including but not limited to a single individual (i.e. a developer), a town board/committee or
a non-profit organization. All activities must be completed in 18 months — July 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2027. The CDBG Advisory Committee held a public hearing on Dec. 18 and determined the following 2026 Community Priorities:
Non-social service priorities:
To continue meeting the goals of the community’s Master Plan, Community Development Strategy, and Community Priorities by focusing efforts on target areas — areas in which 51% or more of residents are low- and moderate-income — including the Town Center, East Amherst Village Center and the East Hadley Road/Pomeroy Village Center.
Social services priorities:
To maintain a balanced ap-
proach among:
• household (family and individual) stabilization;
• support services for those experiencing homelessness;
• youth development;
• services that help develop economic self-sufficiency (adult education & job training);
• food and nutrition programs;
• low-cost accessible comprehensive health services/insurance navigation;
• support services for seniors; and transportation services.
Submission process
The full request for proposals for both social service and non-social service projects can be found online at: www.amherst-
ma.gov/CDBG. Those interested in making a funding request are encouraged to contact Planner Walker Powell at powellw@amherstma.gov or 413-259-3120.
Proposals can be submitted the following ways:
1. By mail
2. By email in PDF format to powellw@amherstma.gov
3. By delivering to staff at the second floor of Town Hall (4 Boltwood Ave., Amherst)
Background
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities has designated the town of Amherst as a Mini-Entitlement Community that is eligible to apply for Community Development Block Grant funds.
Each year, the Town can apply to receive federal funds administered by the EOHLC, which are awarded primarily to support housing, community development projects, and social service activities that improve the lives of Amherst’s low and moderate income residents — defined as individuals or families whose annual income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income as determined by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and be located in an identified neighborhood or target area. Learn more about the CDBG Advisory Committee, relevant documents, and the 2026 application timeline at: amherstma.gov/CDBG
H. Scott Sanborn Reminder
EASTHAMPTON
City Council rings in new year with new members
By Tina Lesniak Correspondent
EASTHAMPTON — In its first regular meeting of 2026, the first with all of the newly-elected councilors and Koni Denham’s first as president, the Easthampton City Council set the stage for a successful and productive new year.
At the beginning of the Jan. 7 meeting, the council took a few moments to recognize the years of service of former president and current state Rep. Homar Gomez. Presenting him with a plaque, Denham noted that it had been “a great honor to work with you.”
Gomez thanked the council and said that it was also an honor for him to serve as council president. He recognized that the council has two women in its highest positions for the first time ever, Denham as president and Felicia Jadczak as vice president.
“This is a great example of what we need,” said Gomez.
The day’s earlier events in Minneapolis, when an ICE
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
EASTHAMPTON — The Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park and Nini’s Ristorante are inviting the public to come ‘Raise some Dough’ for the future Easthampton Dog Park inside Nonotuck Park.
Nini’s will host the Jan. 27 event from 4-9 p.m., and 10% of all sales — eat-in and take-out and bar purchases — will benefit the construction of the incoming dog park.
“When we were tabling at the farmers market in the summer, one of our board members saw a family member of Nini’s passing by, they chatted and they said, ‘why don’t you come do the
agent shot and killed Minneapolis resident Renee Nicole Good, also weighed heavily on the proceedings.
Councilor James “JP” Kwiecenski rose during public comment time to speak as a private citizen and voice his concern over what happened. Later, Mayor Salem Derby spoke of the situation as well, noting that it’s important that people “know what’s happening now. It’s not okay, and it’s not normal.”
Affordable housing, as well as rent control, were also topics labeled as important to the council this year. The council is currently working on updates to the Affordable and Fair Housing Partnership zoning recommendations. It approved sending sections one to four to the Planning Board for a joint public hearing. Those deal with items like required minimum parking and a more inclusive definition of the term family. Denham explained that conversations about these topics have been happening for the last year or so. The council also mentioned that it will be seeking to
fundraiser here?’ and so that’s what we’re doing,” said Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park President Joan Kurtz. “We’re glad that not only did they offer it to us but we’re keeping it in Easthampton.”
Kurtz told Reminder Publishing the fundraiser continues the group’s efforts of raising money toward the new park’s construction project. She added that a beloved community restaurant like Nini’s is a great partner in these efforts.
“We have more than 450, not just residents, but also people from neighboring communities, who are on the email list who want this dog park,” said Kurtz.
“Easthampton is a great city. I’m glad we moved here from
work on issues with rent control in the coming months.
As the council discussed what it hopes to focus on in the coming months, many also congratulated the new mem-
New Hampshire. I’m glad we chose Easthampton as our home city. The people here are wonderful. They want this as badly as the board does and it will happen. It may not actually be done until 2027, but we’re looking forward.”
In the closing months of 2025, the Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park received a $200,000 donation from a former Easthampton resident and secured $23,500 from the Community Preservation Act Committee to pay Canon Landscape Architecture to finalize design plans. Once design plans are completed, the Friends will have a clearer look at the final cost of the project and how much more they need in funding to meet the final cost. Early estimates of the project were
bers of the council. Derby expressed gratitude for the “capable and competent people to help lead the council forward” while former mayoral candidate and Executive Assistant to the
$360,000, but the number is subject to change.
Kurtz added while fundraising efforts like this upcoming one will continue to help and make a difference in final costs, the group will once again ask the CPA Committee for funding in 2026 for the project. Once the design is complete, the project can then go out for bid, and from that point, a final cost for the park’s construction will be determined.
The group will then need to secure the remaining funds for the project.
“I very often take our dog to the South Hadley Dog Park and I’m in touch with their board to see how they went through the process for their park, and how they added benches and things as they went along [post-construction of park],” explained Kurtz.
In the meantime, the Friend’s “Sponsorship Solicitation” option is still available for people looking to support the project. Those who fill out the form can pledge financial assistance for the new park through donations or sponsorship additions to the park. Kurtz added that thanks to a few sponsors, the park already has two benches and three waste
you all.”
stations, items that now can be subtracted from early estimates of the project’s price.
“They started with a bare minimum, and then you work on the others [benches, pet fountains] later. It’s the same thing that can happen here at Nonotuck Park, but Parks and Rec. want to see all the funds that will cover the entire construction of the park before they do any work, and I can appreciate that,” Kurtz said.
To learn more or get involved with the Sponsorship Solicitation, visit easthamptondogpark. org/donors-and-sponsors.
Kurtz said the Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park will stay committed to fundraising efforts in 2026, with plans already set for them to have tables at various city events, like the Easthampton Farmers Market or Cultural Chaos, as well as their signature fundraiser in the spring, Jesse’s Ride. She added the public should keep an eye out for members of the Friends group amongst the community in 2026 as they continue to seek support for the project.
“It’s a great community and city and like I said, I’m glad I’m living here and a part of it,” said Kurtz.
Mayor Lindsi Sekula offered her congratulations to the council, adding, “I’m just so proud of
The Easthampton City Council met on Jan. 7 to welcome its new members for the upcoming term.
Photo credit: E-Media
NORTHAMPTON
American Farmland Trust receives farmland protection grants
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
NORTHAMPTON — The American Farmland Trust in Northampton was awarded close to $274,000 in grants to support farmland protection in various capacities. The trust, whose New England office is located at 1 Short St., will partner with the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition on these efforts.
The money is part of $1.8 million in funding from the newly-created Massachusetts Farmland Partnership Program to help protect farmland, support farm businesses and keep agricultural land in active use across the state.
Through this program, the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources gifted grants to seven regional partnerships made up of nonprofit organizations, municipalities and agricultural groups. The grants will help fund 29 projects designed to slow the loss of farmland, help farmers gain access to land and support farm transfers so agricultural operations can continue from one generation to the next.
“These grants put real resources behind our commitment to protecting Massachusetts farm-
land,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “We are proud to support Massachusetts in farming heritage and legacy to ensure our farmlands are there for generations to come.”
The awards advance implementation of the state’s Farmland Action Plan, which was released in December 2023 to address the ongoing loss of agricultural land.
According to the most recent USDA Census of Agriculture, Massachusetts lost more than 113,000 acres of farmland between 1997 and 2022.
The $274,000 granted to the American Farmland Trust and Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition will help support AFT’s work statewide by increasing the pool of appraisers, surveyors and other contractors that support farmland protection. The money will also help convene learning circles for racially diverse farmers to discuss trusted pathways to access knowledge, markets and other resources, and build a Planning for Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change Program for the state.
AFT Senior New England Program Manager Jamie Pottern told Reminder Publishing that the
team at AFT works on a range of issues on the ground across Massachusetts, from farmland protection to technical assistance, climate resilience and policy work.
“American Farmland Trust, in partnership with the Massachusetts Land Trust Coalition, is pleased to be a recipient on this new grant opportunity,” said Pottern via emailed response. “AFT was the co-author of the Mass. Farmland Plan — released in 2023 — which engages hundreds of farm and food stakeholders around the state. We are grateful to MDAR for providing a new funding opportunity for partners to advance our collective work implementing the goals of the plan.”
Pottern explained that racially diverse farmers, including farmer and AFT staff member Charline Xu, will convene learning circles for farmers thanks to this funding.
“Topics will include resource access, solidarity building, and marketing and distribution networks, among others. These events create a space for farmers of color in Massachusetts to share information that is tailored to their specific experience,” said Pottern. “In-person events will be followed by virtual Learning
Circles so that participants can dig into key issues, learn more from each other, identify resources and address their most urgent concerns.”
Furthermore, Pottern explained that AFT will draw from staff expertise, the adaptation tools they’ve already built, and the long-standing relationships established with farmers and other organizations in the state to help build the future Planning for Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change Program.
“Our approach is twofold. First, we will work directly with farmers to develop farm-specific climate adaptation plans that reflect the unique site and operation vulnerabilities. Second, we will convene and train farm advisors across the commonwealth to learn from each other about the current state of climate adaptation and adaptation resources,” explained Pottern. “Adaptation of farm management to the impacts of climate change and associated risks of increasingly severe weather is critical to agricultural sustainability and farm viability, and changes in temperature and precipitation patterns have driven some changes in farm management already.”
Pottern continued, “Our proposed work will strengthen collaboration and resource-sharing within the farm advisory community, provide direct support to farmers for climate adaptation planning and expand resilience-focused opportunities for farmers.”
The funding here and across the state coincides with the release of the state’s Farmland Action Plan 2025 Progress Report, which highlights progress made over the past year, including expanded farmland protection efforts and increased access to farmland transfer and succession planning assistance.
The progress report highlights several achievements in the implementation of the Farmland Action Plan. Three “whole farms” are now permanently protected through the Agricultural Preservation Restriction Program. The “whole farms” approach safeguards agricultural land along with the buildings, woodlands, wildlife habitats and essential resources linked to farming.
The Healey-Driscoll administration officially awarded the farmland protection grants in December.
Florence Bank donates $40K to Valley Community Development
NORTHAMPTON — Florence
Bank recently contributed $40,000 to the Northampton-based Valley Community Development Corporation, a non-profit corporation formed in 1988 to address the shortage of affordable housing and the needs of the community through economic and housing development.
Valley CDC serves Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties for homeownership and small business services and primarily Amherst, Hadley, Northampton and Easthampton for affordable housing development.
The bank’s donation to Valley CDC will help support its ongoing work, which includes creating affordable housing and providing financial education to first-time and existing homebuyers, foreclosure prevention services to struggling homeowners and offering small business services.
Challengers allege fraud in signature collection for marijuana repeal
By Katie Castellani and Ella Adams State House News Service
BOSTON — The proposed ballot initiative to repeal adult-use recreational marijuana faces a new challenge.
Challengers of the proposal filed an objection Jan. 2 with Secretary of State William Galvin’s office. The State Ballot Law Commission planned to hold a pre-hearing conference on the objection Jan. 12 and a hearing Jan. 13.
The objection is centered around concerns about how signatures in support of the proposed ballot initiative were collected, Thomas Kiley, an attorney leading the challenge, told the News Service.
“Paid signature gatherers at Trader Joe’s in Hanover, Market Basket facilities in Plymouth, Whole Foods in Weymouth and
in parking lots around Gillette Stadium in Foxborough have misled voters with respect to what they were signing and thus obtained signatures fraudulently,” the objection states.
“Among the misleading statements were assertions that the law proposed on the petition blanks they were signing would get fentanyl off the streets, provide affordable housing in their communities or fund public parks,” according to the objection. “Each of these assertions would be apt with respect to one or more of the other initiative petitions approved by the attorney general, but have nothing to do with Initiative Petition 1E.”
The objection asserts paid signature gatherers often gave only the backside of the petition to voters whose signatures they obtained. The backside doesn’t bear the summary of the proposed law, the objection adds.
Wendy Wakeman, chair of the ballot committee backing the ballot proposal, stood firm behind the signature gathering, saying they were “collected with integrity” and by trained professional signature gatherers.
“We stand by the number,” Wakeman said.
The state elections division certified 78,301 signatures for the petition in December. The petition needed at least 74,574 certified signatures to proceed in the process.
Wakeman said opponents to the ballot proposal have raised concerns about signature collections for months and said that it is predictable that they would issue an objection.
She is confident the proposal will stay on track to the 2026 ballot.
Galvin addressed the ob -
Alexandra Pandiri
Jane Procon
Elizabeth Victoria Spelman
Gregory Paul Thompson
Last year, Valley CDC worked with over 200 local small businesses and 250 first-time home buyers with education and counseling. It built 80 affordable apartments in Northampton, has 30 affordable homes under construction in Amherst, and plans to have another 120 apartments built over the next four years.
SOUTH HADLEY
Marie J. Cassidy
James G. Lowe
Richard J. Ross
Guido C. Schiappa
Roger W. Strange
SOUTHAMPTON
Constance R. Morey (Krawczyk)
Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity said, “We are pleased to be able to support Valley CDC in its efforts to build affordable housing, while supporting first time home buyers and small businesses in our communities.”
Since 1988, Valley CDC has built or preserved over 400 affordable homes and apartments throughout the community, assisting nearly 9,000 people in their homeownership journey. Additionally, Valley has worked with 3,000 small business owners and entrepreneurs to assist their ideas become reality.
HAMPSHIRE REGIONAL VS CHICOPEE
BASKETBALL
The Hampshire Regional boys basketball team faced off against Chicopee on Jan. 2 and outscored them, 52-48.
Kameron Locke stretches out for the ball and catches it then makes the easy basket.
Brody Frenier looks up the court while dribbling to find an open teammate.
Vynce Carr makes a one-handed layup while being defended closely.
Unguarded Kameron Locke shoots a three pointer.
Joseph Moro dribbles around the defender to get to the basket.
REMINDER SPORTS PHOTOS TAKEN BY SAM BLAKE
Braylon Jarrett catches the pass from his teammate and attempts to make a last second shot.
Brody Frenier gets the shot off while being fouled.
Vynce Carr inbounds the ball to his teammate to start the second quarter.
Joseph Moro makes a noncontested layup and scores the easy basket.
Ice Art Festival gears up for biggest celebration yet
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
NORTHAMPTON — Winter
magic is returning to Northampton in the form of the 15th annual Ice Art Festival on Jan. 31, turning the city’s downtown into a walkable winter art gallery.
This year’s festival, once again put on by the Downtown Northampton Association, is set to be the biggest iteration yet, according to organizers, as 17 frozen art locations grace downtown. Sculptors will begin carving in the morning and finish their work before dusk, and their finished art will be viewed until nature melts them over the following days.
“It’s really amazing to be able to watch a carver work to completion starting from just a block of ice,” Northampton DNA Board President Amanda Shafii told Reminder Publishing . “Typically, stations get two blocks of ice each, delivered between 8-9 in the morning and then throughout the day, the carver works on their masterpiece, and it’s amazing what they can do. We’ve had dragons, we’ve had the Grinch, we’ve had so many different beautiful works of art, and it’s very fascinating to be able to watch it all happen in live time.”
With more sculptures, more artists and more places to explore, visitors are invited to wander, discover and experience ice art around every corner.
From iconic downtown spots to hidden gems, each location offers something unique, according to organizers. The festival encourages guests to explore local shops, restaurants and gathering spaces along the way.
“It happens to be a good time to try and bring an event downtown. Things get a little quieter after the holidays. Everyone loves it,” added Shafii.
The free, all-day festival is a beloved winter tradition in the community that highlights the energy of downtown Northampton while supporting local artists, shops, restaurants and gathering spaces. Shafii said a map of the ice art locations throughout downtown will be released the day of the event on the DNA’s website and socials.
There is also a competition element to the festival, as attendees will be asked to vote on their favorite piece by the day’s end. This year’s People’s Choice Award will be dedicated to the memory of local ice sculptor David Rothstein, who passed away unexpectedly in November.
“David was very active in the carving community and a carver with us for a bunch of years, and unfortunately, he just passed recently, so we want to honor him with dedicating the people’s choice award to him this year,” explained Shafii. “I hope that we get a busy day full of people coming downtown. I hope we get a lot of votes as well because we like to make the competition even more competitive, and it’s even more fun the more people that join in.”
A2Z, beryl, Eastside Grill, Familiars, Forbes Library, Hotel Northampton, Thornes Marketplace and more will feature frozen art.
For more information on this year’s Ice Art Festival, visit nohodna.org/ice-art-festival-2026/.
Repeal
Continued from page 5
jection on Jan. 6, as his office delivered boxes of ballot questions to the State House.
“The objectors are based on the people who now are in retail cannabis businesses,” Galvin said. “They’ve got to come up with enough signatures knocked off to disqualify the petition. It
“I hope that everyone has a great day, gets to do a little shopping, and maybe warm up with a cup of coffee or get a nice dinner after,” added Shafii. “It’s really great to see the carvings come to life during the daytime, but at nighttime, they’re all lit up, so it’s like a completely different site and it’s really special to be able to see it all happen.”
has to be based on evidence, it can’t be assertions. So it’s going to be a challenge.”
“You’re talking tens of thousands of signatures, to come up with enough that are going to be disqualified in a short period of time, because the Ballot Law Commission is time limited, 10 days, I think. So good luck. I hope they have a nice time,” Galvin added.
Katie Castellani and Ella Adams are reporters for the State House News Service and State Affairs Massachusetts. Reach them at kcastellani@ statehousenews.com and ella. adams@statehousenews.com.
Works from sculptors during previous Ice Art Festivals help turn downtown Northampton into a walkable winter art gallery.
