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Council ponders data center committee By Ryan Feyre
rfeyre@thereminder.com
EDITION DINING
Delicious bites coming to the Big E Reminder Publishing’s staff reviewed the new food coming to the Big E.
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EASTHAMPTON
The Northammpton City Council, pictured here at a May meeting, discussed a joint committee to study data centers at its Aug. 20 meeting. Photo credit: Northampton Open Media
See DATA CENTERS on page 8
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Coca-Cola plant in December. Ward 2 City Councilor Deborah Klemer also liked Loisel’s idea of forming a mayor/City Council committee. She pointed to the stories she sees every day about data centers as a reason the city should be proactive in its own discussions. “I think it’s really smart to get a handle on the approaches of these companies and their tactics of getting the foot in the door,” Klemer said. “A time-limited fact-finding group would really
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happy to talk to the council president about it as well, of having some sort of joint committee commission to look at this, particularly because I know that there are some department heads who are interested in talking about it,” said Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra. “And that would be a good way to have their input as well. And so, you know, happy to hear from folks on their thoughts on this.” No decisions were made at the council meeting, but many agreed that a formal plan should be implemented soon, especially with the imminent closure of the city’s
Part rock concert, part puppet show and part ghost story.
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ment to their affordability package earlier this summer that holds data centers responsible for the environmental and financial impacts on communities. According to Loisel and other Northampton councilors, a joint committee would essentially gather facts about the centers and present them to the council. The hope is that those facts would properly inform the city’s decision-making process relating to zoning or data center projects in general, should they ever grace the city. “I really like the idea and was
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‘Literary Monsters’ to take stage
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NORTHAMPTON — As data centers dominate the headlines across the country, including locally, the city of Northampton is looking to have its own discussions around the polarizing issue. At its meeting on Aug. 20, the City Council considered forming a joint mayoral/City Council committee to study zoning and regulations about data centers. “I feel like we need to be proactive,” said Ward 3 City Councilor Laurie Loisel, who presented the idea to the full body. “I don’t know if anything’s coming, if anything’s been proposed. I don’t think so, but I think we should look at it before that happens to see what our options are.” The preliminary discussions in Northampton come at a time when multiple Western Mass. communities are reckoning with the data center boom, including the centers’ influence on electric bills, water usage and the environment. Holyoke recently approved a ban on future development of the centers, while Agawam approved a 270-day moratorium and Westfield approved a 12-month moratorium. Additionally, lawmakers in the state Senate proposed an amend-
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New, delicious bites coming to the Big E in 2026 By Dennis Hackett
dhackett@thereminder.com
WEST SPRINGFIELD — With just a few weeks remaining until the Big E opens its doors for the 2026 season on Sept. 18, the fair hosted its annual media food preview on Aug. 27. As always, local vendors brought their latest concoctions for the media to taste test ahead of the fair. Alongside Executive Editor Chris Maza, fellow Managing Editor Ryan Feyre and Staff Writer Tyler Garnet, we taste tested everything they offered. Big E Bakery As always, the Big E Bakery brought their cream puffs, but with a new twist this year. In recent years, the bakery has experimented with cookies and cream and espresso cream puffs but this year was the big one for me, a peanut butter cream puff, topped with a marshmallow fluff. This in my opinion was the best tasting cream puff I have had at the Big E; I’m a sucker for anything peanut butter so this was an automatic hit for me. However, it is extremely messy, and I would recommend grabbing a fork and plenty of napkins. Chris said he was also a fan but noted that his typical tactic for eating the cream puff doesn’t work with the marshmallow sauce. “The bakery does it again. So many times, peanut butter-flavored foods carry the peanut butter heaviness or stickiness. The filling packed the peanut butter flavor in while the consistency stayed light and airy,” he said. “There’s still plenty of sticky in this one, though, in the form of the marshmallow drizzle over the top. While adding the trademark Fluff sweetness to the treat, it does make my ‘smush and twist’ tactic for eating the cream puff a much messier affair. The best bet for this one is either embracing the mess or finding a fork!”
Dolly’s Honky Tonk Over at Dolly’s Honky Tonk, attendees will have plenty of choices of cheese dogs to pick from. Located on Industrial Avenue, people will have the choice of a chili cheese dog, a classic cheddar cheese dog and a pulled pork cheese dog. Tyler was a big fan of the chili cheese dog. “The chili cheese dog got me excited for fall. The chili served as a warm and comforting bite, and the hot dog was a perfect vessel and partner for a delicious handheld bite,” he said. Chris opted for the pulled pork cheese dog. “What’s better than a hot dog? At hot dog topped with more meat and cheese! The Dolly’s Dog with pulled pork would certainly be a belly-filler and I would not recommend getting right on their mechanical bull after eating one of these. But if you’re looking for something you can eat on the go and will definitely satisfy your hunger, this high-quality dog topped with tender pork and melted cheese definitely fits the bill,” he said.
E.B.’s Restaurant E.B.’s Restaurant, which will be located at the Food Court, is bringing a fried turkey dinner to the fair this year. This fried concoction is turkey, craisins and stuffing, rolled in panko crumbs, fried and topped with turkey gravy, served with a side of cranberry sauce. I was a big fan of the dinner and was amazed with what they were able to stuff into a fried ball. It really was Thanksgiving dinner in a single bite, and I will be returning for more when I make my trip to the Big E this year. While I am not the biggest fan of cranberry sauce, I thought the combination of turkey, stuffing and the craisins, along with the gravy was excellent. Chris said the meal was balanced.
Top row, from left: A close up with the new peanut butter cream puff. V-One Vodka’s new Late Checkout seltzer. The fried turkey dinner from E.B.’s Restaurant. Bottom row, from left: The birria bomb from Macho Taco. The maple bacon and candied jalapeno sliders from The Paddock. The Hush Puppy Skewers from NOLA Cajun Kitchen & Raw Bar.
Reminder Publishing photos by Chris Maza, Tyler Garnet and Dennis Hackett
“It’s Thanksgiving dinner packed into a deep-fried ball. The stuffing in some bites overtakes the flavor of the ground turkey and is a bit salty for my taste, but the tart cranberry sauce creates a nice balance,” he said. Ferrindino Maple Over at Ferrindino Maple, which will be located at the Better Living Center, they were sampling their maple creemee bacon waffle, which is their maple creemee soft serve topped with a toasted Belgian waffle, then finished with maple bacon pieces and drizzled in maple syrup. Ryan said that this was his fa-
vorite thing he tried. “I thought this would be too sweet, but honestly the smoky bacon flavor is welcome contrast to the sugary storm of Maple Creemee and maple syrup. It’s the inverse of how you should eat your meals. By the time you get to the caramelized Belgian Waffle, you’ve essentially hit your calorie mark for the day. It’s devilishly good, and as a waffle lover, probably my pick of event,” he said. Chris said it was a sweet treat that eats like a hearty breakfast. “The classic creamy ice cream and maple drizzle you’ve come to love from Ferrendino Maple now comes on top of a Belgian waffle, topped with bacon for good measure. The bacon adds that little bit of savory to cut through all the sweetness and complexity. They don’t skimp on anything with this one, so bring your appetite (or a friend) to tackle this one,” he said. Harpoon Beer Hall Harpoon Beer Hall, which will be located on New England Avenue, offered a Maple Bourbon Bacon Corned Beef Sandwich. This corned beef sandwich came smoked on rye, topped with a maple bourbon glaze, candied bacon and powdered sugar. If you’re looking for a combination of sweet and savory, this may be the pick for you. Alongside the traditional corned beef flavor, there is a pleasant burst of sugar biting into the sandwich. I would consider it a steady, safe pick if you don’t want to go too crazy but want something that represents the best of both worlds. K’s Japanese Restaurant K’s Japanese Restaurant is making its debut at the Big E this year and will be located at the Food Court on East Road. Hearkening back to a push pop ice cream, K’s is offering sushi in a push up tube with a side of soy sauce. In terms of the sushi, they offer spicy tuna, tuna with avocado and topped with shrimp. While I did not give this a try, I have to say it may be the most convenient, hands-free item you can get walking around the fair. Tyler called it one of the most interesting food items he has ever seen at the Big E. “The push-up sushi contains multiple pieces of sushi inside of a tube. Outside of the tube is also a smaller tube of soy sauce. When you are ready to eat, you pop off the plastic lid, dump some soy sauce in if you choose and use the tube of soy sauce to slowly push the sushi to the top of the tube. This makes it easy to eat while at the fair and no chopsticks are needed. Besides the entertaining process of eating a piece of sushi, it also tasted delicious,” he said. Macho Taco Macho Taco is bringing a birria bomb to the Big E this year,
and they will be located on East Road. The birria bomb is a deepfried ball of rice, slow-simmered shredded birria beef and nacho cheese coated with Hot Cheeto dust and served with a birria broth for dipping. This was the first thing I tried, and nothing came close to topping it. I always have an eye on what Macho Taco is going to bring after being blown away by their birria tacos a few years ago. The combination of the fried rice, nacho cheese and a Hot Cheeto dust coating is just unbeatable. Tyler also pointed out that there is an incredible cheese pull when pulling the ball apart. Moolicious Moolicious, located on West Road and Springfield Road this year, is bringing a new ice cream concoction in the campfire on a stick. The campfire on a stick is two graham crackers that are piled with marshmallows and torched until they are golden and gooey. Finally, the smore is topped with vanilla ice cream before it is rolled into a warm chocolate. Chris was the lone member of the team brave enough to take a bite of the campfire on a stick. He said, “Ice cream packed between two graham crackers on a stick covered in chocolate. Need I say more? OK, I will. This is a cool, sweet treat that plays on those classic s’mores flavors and figures to be a real crowd pleaser. A word to the wise, though, if it’s a warm day, you’ll want to eat it quickly, unless you’re like my 8-year-old, in which case, the messier the better!” Moolicious will also offer salted butter popcorn soft serve. NOLA Cajun Kitchen & Raw Bar NOLA Cajun Kitchen & Raw Bar, which will be located on New England Avenue, is bringing a Crawfish Po’ Boy, which includes crispy crawfish on a fresh roll with lettuce, tomato, Cajun slaw and remoulade along with Hush Puppy Skewers made with lobster tail coated in hush puppy batter, flash-fried, drizzled with Mike’s Hot Honey butter and finished with Cajun remoulade. Tyler said the hush puppy was the best thing he tried all day. “The hush puppy batter was not too sweet and worked really well with the Mike’s Hot Honey Butter and Cajun remoulade. The Cajun butter poached lobster stayed soft and buttery through the flash fried process. The entire dish hit a lot of different flavor profiles and worked so well. I can’t wait to look for this food item when the Big E officially starts,” he said. Simply Gluten Free Simply Gluten Free will be See BIG E on page 9
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HAMPSHIRE | SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026
‘Literary Monsters’ to take stage in Easthampton By Trent Levakis
tlevakis@thereminder.com
EASTHAMPTON — Part rock concert, part puppet show and part ghost story, “Literary Monsters,” from performance troupe Shadow, Sound Spectacle will grace the Easthampton Media Black Box Studio Theater stage on Saturday, Sept. 12, at 7:30 p.m. for a one-night multimedia event. Drawing inspiration from the works of Edgar Allen Poe, Mary Shelley, Washington Irving, Emily Dickinson, Bram Stroker and others, Literary Monsters asks: what is a monster? Through original songs, handcrafted shadow puppets, projected imagery and live narration, the performance transforms familiar literary figures into an exploration of identity, belonging and the beauty of those who live outside society’s expectations, according to show organizers. “In classic literature, the ‘monster’ is often someone who doesn’t fit the societal mold — someone misunderstood or cast out,” said Jess Martin, the show’s composer and performer. “As a queer artist, I found a lot of beauty and strength in these figures. Together, we’ve created a performance that celebrates difference and invites audiences to reconsider who the real monsters are.” Unlike a traditional theatre production, “Literary Monsters” unfolds through a handcrafted blend of live music, shadow puppetry, overhead projectors, moving panorama, sound effects and video projection. Every visual element is performed live, creating a theatrical experience that feels both intimate and cinematic, Martin said. “I think we’re all storytellers in our way and so it answers this desire in each of us as artists to be in community,” said Martin of the performance troupe. “And then the exciting part is to see how the audiences are responding. I have
a background in theater, and so I always love feeling the work breathe in the room with others and that excitement of what live performance can bring. We hold the audience experience central to our storytelling.” Amy West, puppet designer and lead puppeteer, said shadow puppetry lives in the space between what is seen and what is hidden, allowing light and shadows to transform before the audience’s eyes and making for the perfect medium in exploring monsters, identity and imagination. “Jess is, at her core, a storyteller. Her songwriting has a cinematic quality that, for me, easily evokes shadow puppetry,” said West. “We’ve built this show very thoughtfully, one piece and one monster at a time. We’re very fortunate to have the support of Easthampton Cultural Council and E-Media to make this show possible, and we’re grateful to Mass Cultural Council and all of the local cultural councils and venues who have sponsored us over the past couple of years.” Videographer, musician and puppeteer Abby Hanna said that one of the joys of the show is seeing audiences discover that these familiar stories still have something meaningful to say about who we are today. “Jess’ music has a certain flair that I think is pretty irreproducible by other artists. Like Amy said, [Jess] is a storyteller through and through,” said Hanna. Hanna added that the troupe is grateful to live in an area which grants opportunities like this “to weird little groups like us.” “If you asked me three years ago if I thought I’d be part of a musical puppet troupe, I’d tell you you’re being silly, but here we are,” Hanna said. “I really love Western Mass., and I am sad that the music scene in Northampton has decreased so much in the past decade or so. So, I am really happy to see Easthampton taking over some of that and opening these
Abby Hanna (left), Amy West (center) and Jess Martin (right). Reminder Publishing submitted photo
spaces for artists to perform.” West added, “The audience response to ‘Literary Monsters’ has been very gratifying, and we’re excited to perform it in E-Media’s excellent black box production studio … I’ve been so impressed with Easthampton’s vibrant scene for art, music and theater.” Following the performance, audiences are invited to remain for a behind-the-scenes conversation with the artists, where they can see the puppets up close, learn about the creative process and explore the enduring fascination with monsters in literature and popular culture. Another addition to the night will be a special guest performance from Why’s It Gotta Be? Theater Group and their world premiere of “Dorian Gray is a Sodomite.” WIGB founder and President Devin Dumas said this performance was created especially to run alongside this new work from Shadow, Sound, Spectacle, as five performers will race to retell Oscar Wilde’s “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” each from a
distinct perspective. The piece explores the influences that shape — and sometimes suppress — the identities we allow ourselves to become, according to the group. “We felt that this spot to collaborate with Shadow, Sound, Spectacle as an opening to their ‘Literary Monsters’ tour provided us with the right amount of creative freedom – not too little to feel constrained, but not too wide in scope,” said Dumas. “‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ has always been something I’ve wanted to explore in a more contemporary context. I’ve always seen glimmers of modern archetypes in these characters … within the scope of ‘Literary Monsters,’ I hope to convey the idea of ‘monstrousness’ in Dorian not necessarily being caused by ‘hedonism’ but rather by the different kinds of expectations of queer expression and repressions placed on everyone.” Shadow, Sound, Spectacle has previously performed at the Providence Fringe Festival, Pup-
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pet Showplace Theater and libraries throughout the state, earning praise for its blend of music, puppetry and visual storytelling. Martin said that the opportunity to perform in an arts-based community is an exciting way to continue expanding the show. Martin added that the troupe hopes audiences can connect with the show and its themes as it takes audiences. “The monsters are fun, and we’re getting to ask, like, who gets called a monster and who gets to decide. And I think if people are coming in looking for something they’ve seen before, they’re probably not going to find it with us, but they’re going to see something unexpected,” said Martin. “They’re going to see a rock concert, a shadow puppet show, and a ghost story.” Advance tickets are available for $20 at eventbrite.com/e/ shadow-sound-spectacle-presents-literary-monsters-tickets-1996063309090. Pay-whatyou-wish admission will also be available at the door.
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Vet Fest returns to Nonotuck Park Sept. 19 for third year By Trent Levakis
tlevakis@thereminder.com
EASTHAMPTON — Vet Fest, Easthampton’s annual veteran and military family celebration and appreciation event, will return for its third year on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Nonotuck Park. The day will once again feature food, activities and games for families, as well as information for the military-veteran family community. Organized by the Easthampton Coalition for Veteran Wellness in partnership with Operation Veteran Vacation, and with support of local community sponsors and stakeholders, the event is free to any U.S. military member or veteran of U.S. military service and their guests. The day of connection, resources and fun aims to bring together the local veteran community and their families from Easthampton and surrounding areas. It also aims to provide veterans with the needed benefits and resources. “When the Coalition was forming, we were focused on a pretty simple but important idea: veterans need opportunities to connect with other veterans and with the community around them,” coalition member Heather Rudolph told Reminder Publishing. “We started with things like our monthly veterans’ luncheon, and Vet Fest grew naturally from that. We wanted to create a larger event where veterans, military families, friends and the broader community could come together in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.” The Easthampton Coalition for Veteran Wellness began in 2023 through a partnership between the city of Easthampton and the VA Medical Center in Leeds to bring veterans together. Joined by local veterans, businesses and stakeholders, the coalition continues to grow and develop in service of its mission to build connection within the veteran community.
Now in its third year of Vet Fest, the coalition has seen its impact grow within the community. “The first year, we honestly weren’t sure what to expect. We were thrilled by the turnout, and seeing how much people enjoyed simply being together made it clear that this was something our community wanted,” Rudolph said. “Now, heading into our third year, Vet Fest has become one of the ways we can bring that mission to life on a much larger scale. It’s not just a veterans’ event; it’s an opportunity for people of different generations and backgrounds to meet, connect, learn about resources and celebrate the people in our community who have served.” Rudolph added that Vet Fest also provides a unique opportunity for the coalition to connect more with younger veterans. She said that one of the main goals of the coalition has been to ensure they are reaching veterans across generations, including younger veterans who served after 9/11. She said there can sometimes be a gap between the veterans who have been connected to the community for many years and the younger ones who may not yet see themselves as part of that local community. “We want Vet Fest to be a place where that connection can happen naturally. Younger veterans can come with their families, meet other veterans closer to their own age, but also connect with Vietnam, Gulf War and other generations of veterans. There’s a lot we can learn from each other, and that intergenerational connection is really valuable,” Rudolph said. “We’ve also seen that connection happens veteran-to-veteran. Veterans often have a different level of trust and understanding with someone who has served, and that can make it much easier to start a conversation.” She added, “It’s also important because many younger veterans may still be balancing careers, young families and all of the other demands of life. They may not
Photos from the 2025 Vet Fest in Easthampton. Photo credit: Easthampton Coalition for Veteran Wellness
be looking for a traditional veterans’ event or know what resources are available to them. If we can reach them in a setting that feels welcoming, family-friendly and fun, we have a much better opportunity to make that initial connection and let them know what’s available before they ever reach a point where they desperately need it.” Information on federal Veterans Affairs, Springfield Vet Center, and state veteran benefits and programs to help veterans and their families will be available. Various city departments and programs, including the Central Hampshire County Veteran Engagement Team and local veteran service officers, will table at the event. The Easthampton Fire and Police departments will also attend with the ladder truck and a K9 demonstration. Rudolph said that Vet Fest reminds the coalition that the biggest barrier isn’t lack of resources, but lack of knowledge about what’s out there for veterans and where to start. The event helps
address that barrier and meet veterans where they are. “A community event changes that dynamic. A veteran may come to Vet Fest because it’s a fun, free family event, but while they’re there, they can have a conversation with someone from Veterans Services, the VA, or one of our community organizations and discover a benefit or resource they didn’t even realize they were entitled to,” Rudolph explained. “That’s really the power of bringing these resources directly into the community. Instead of asking veterans to navigate a system on their own; we’re putting people and organizations in the same place and creating opportunities for those informal conversations to happen. Sometimes it only takes one person saying, ‘have you looked into this?’ to open a door.” Lunch will be free, and those on Facebook can register for the event on the platform to help organizers gauge the expected turnout. Registration, however, is not a requirement to attend.
Activities for children will be available at the event, including various games and arts and crafts. Fletcher Farms, a longtime supporter of the coalition, will provide pumpkins for kids to paint and decorate. Another highlight is a youth-oriented military-style inflatable obstacle course organized by Operation Veteran Vacation. Bright Spot Therapy Dogs, a local nonprofit organization, will also be in attendance with information about their programs. Volunteers will be at the event to talk about their programs, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, libraries and other facilities. There are still opportunities to donate, and all proceeds will support the coalition’s events throughout the year. To help raise funds for the coalition, a 50/50 raffle will be available at the event. For donation opportunities or for more information about the Vet Fest, email the coalition at VeteranWellness.Easthampton@ gmail.com. Sunday, Sept. 20, is the rain date.
Cummington Awarded $322,225 in MVP Action Grant Funds CUMMINGTON — The town of Cummington has announced that it was awarded $322,225 in climate resilience grant funding. Cummington will transform the former Berkshire Trail Elementary School, now the Berkshire Trail Building, into a climate‑ready Resilience Hub with a local and regional emergency shelter, a USDA‑funded $1 mil-
lion regional food hub and climate‑resilient landscaping such as a floodway garden and native pollinator gardens. This project implements priority actions identified through the town’s Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness planning process and grows Cummington’s commitment to taking action towards greater climate resilience. Se-
lect Board member June Lynds shared, “The Resilience Hub will make a direct impact through concerted action on multiple fronts, from emergency response to lasting public health programs and nature-based climate solutions. The impact will be amplified over time as residents take part in community engagement programs and become invested as
stakeholders, and educated to be more prepared.” In close partnership with the Hilltown Community Development Corporation, the town will oversee BTB renovations, while HCDC installs a full-building generator — non-MVP funded — to ensure operations during climate emergencies. MVP-funded work includes oil tank removal, insulation upgrades and energy-efficiency improvements. Community engagement will be supported through Cultural District programming, town website updates and a virtual climate re-
silience hub. Community engagement opportunities will be announced as the program begins. Community members are encouraged to visit the town of Cummington website to stay up to date on opportunities to get involved. The MVP Grant Program is a partnership between state and local communities to build climate resilience through grant-funded projects. Communities start with a planning grant, become an MVP-certified community and then are eligible for action grant funding.
OPEN HOUSE
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FRANKLIN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS Wisdom Way, Greenfield
ATTRACTIONS & EXHIBITS
• Thrill Extravaganza Show • Coleman Brothers Shows Midway • Pirate Man Dan • Flying High Frisbee Dogs • XPOGO Stunt Team • Axe Women Loggers of Maine • Flippenout Trampoline Show • Dinosaur Experience • Baby Barnyard • Truck & Tractor Pull • Demolition Derbies
• Kids Power Wheels Demo • Little Diggers Construction Co. • 22NEWS and CW Springfield Community Stage • Agricultural Exhibits & Competitions • Fish & Wildlife Exhibits • Commercial Exhibits • Fair Museum • Moving Mermaid • Kids’ Tent featuring the Jolley Family • Craft Fair and much, much more!
Complete Fair Info and Schedule at
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413-774-4282 *This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.*
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Applications open for Arts Council grants By Trent Levakis
tlevakis@thereminder.com
NORTHAMPTON — The Northampton Arts Council has announced that online applications for its fiscal year 2027 Local Cultural Council Grant Round will open Sept. 1. The annual opportunity provides support to local artists for community-based projects in the arts, humanities and interpretive sciences. The council’s annual grant cycle is funded through the Mass achusetts Cultural Council. The deadline for this round will be on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at 11:59 p.m. The organization is part of a statewide network of 329 local cultural councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the state. The council grants state funds directly to local projects that enhance the cultural vitality of Northampton, Florence and Leeds. Northampton Arts Council Director of Arts and Culture Brian Foote told Reminder Publishing the local cultural council program serves as the cornerstone of grassroots funding in the community.
“That foundation is amplified by a community with a deep appreciation for the arts. What makes Northampton’s model especially enduring is the reciprocal relationship between our cultural events and our funding cycles,” said Foote. “Beyond state allocations, the Arts Council reinvests proceeds from community traditions like First Night, Transformance and the Silver Chord Bowl directly back into local creatives through local grants. It creates a self-sustaining ecosystem where community participation directly fuels future artistic creation.” Grants support public programs across the arts including performances, exhibitions, festivals, workshops, school programs and public art. Eligible applicants include individual artists and cultural practitioners, nonprofit organizations, unincorporated community groups and public schools and agencies. “Being able to provide direct support to artists across all disciplines — visual art, music, dance, theater, literature, media and school programming — ensures
that our local cultural landscape remains vibrant, accessible and evolving,” Foote added. “For artists, an LCC grant is often the crucial seed money of bridge funding that validates a new concept and brings it from idea to public presentation. For Northampton as a whole, the funding activates public spaces, engages schools, sparks dialogue and strengthens the cultural economy that makes our city a destination.” During the FY26 cycle, the Northampton Arts Council awarded $22,710 across community projects, with individual grants typically ranging from $180 to $1,805. Because grants rarely fund the full cost of a proposal, applicants are strongly encouraged to seek diverse revenue streams, including applicant funds, outside support or in-kind contributions, Foote said. “Our LCC grants empower artists, educators and organizations to create work that directly reflects and enriches our community,” said Foote. “We welcome proposals across all creative disciplines and encourage both emerging and established appli-
cants to apply.” With the opening of applications on Sept. 1, local funding priorities will also be published. On Sept. 10, the Massachusetts Cultural Council will host a statewide virtual information session. The LCC Grant Decisions Report will be due on Jan. 15, 2027, and award announcements will follow. Foote said that all interested individual artists, cultural organizations, educators and community groups planning projects that serve Northampton, Florence and Leeds are encouraged to review local priorities and apply. Complete details, guidelines and links to the application portal are available at northamptonartscouncil.org. All applications must be submitted online through the Mass Cultural Council’s grants management portal. For application links, local priorities and writing tips, visit northamptonartscouncil.org/lcc-grant. For questions or guidance, contact the Northampton Arts Council at arts@northamptonma.gov or 413-587-1069.
‘Swan Lake’ returns to the Academy of Music By Trent Levakis
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NORTHAMPTON — Back by popular demand, the World Ballet Company has announced the return of its production of “Swan Lake” at the Academy of Music Theatre on Sept. 18 at 7 p.m. World Ballet Company is an independent, Los Angeles-based national touring ballet company led by founders Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick. Built from the ground up without institutional backing, the company produces and presents its own national tours, bringing full-scale ballet productions that blend classical artistry and Broadway-style theatrical flair to audiences across the country. Described as a timeless tale of love, betrayal and transformation, “Swan Lake” follows Prince Siegfried as he encounters Odette, a princess doomed to live as a swan by day under the spell of a sorcerer. Though Prince Siegfried pledges his love and vows to break the
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Some images of past “Swan Lake” performances.
Graphic Design Manager: Beth Thurber Photo credit: Will Bucquoy
curse, he is deceived by the sorcerer’s daughter, Odile — the Black Swan — leading to heartbreak and tragedy. The World Ballet Company has rapidly become the nation’s leading touring ballet company. The organization said it is committed to making ballet accessible and engaging for audiences in communities large and small across more than 40 U.S. states. The company presents reimagined classics in more than 180 different cities each year. “We believe ballet is for every-
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one, and the response from audiences nationwide has been incredible,” said Hartwick, who is also producer of the show. The production features choreography by Nadezhda Kalinina — based on the original staging by Marius Petipa — as well as over 150 hand-sewn costumes, hand-painted sets created using centuries-old theatrical techniques and projection and multimedia visuals. “Our ‘Swan Lake’ combines the elegance of classic ballet with vivid, immersive storytelling. It’s
a magical experience for both ballet newcomers and longtime fans,” added Gorskaya. “‘Swan Lake’ has everything: love, deception, impossible choices, mistaken identity, an evil sorcerer, a royal party and a man who fails to recognize his girlfriend because she changed the color of her dress. It is more than a century old, but emotionally, it remains extremely current.” The two co-founders told Reminder Publishing that making See SWAN LAKE on page 10
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The runners group up to go off to the trails.
Jessica Holley (112) finishes the second turn on the course.
James Lowenthal (102) smiles and thumbs up the camera as he makes his first turn on the course. Nell Kusek (333) comes out of one of the trails and gets ready to take the other one.
Ada Corner (49) and Hugh Corner (97) attempt to beat each other at the end of the race.
Jonathan Castro (337) making his way down to the finish line.
Eric Williams (85) runs down the last couple feet to finish the race.
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102 runners of the Northampton 5k Cross Country race finish the last race of the year on Tuesday, Aug. 25, near the Northampton Community Gardens. REMINDER SPORTS PHOTOS TAKEN BY SAM BLAKE
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The runners run off the starting line for the Northampton cross country 5k.
Angela Farrick (336) smiles and waves at the camera while she makes the turn during the race.
Dan Lipson (208) cruises to the finish line.
Thomas Canty (294) is one step closer to the finish line.
Rachel Wasserman (342) makes her way through the wooded course.
Brian Farmer (25) runs down the gravel road.
Brad Mish (44) is the first runner to take the turn.
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New Bar Lavi Hebrew School opens in Northampton NORTHAMPTON — This fall, families throughout the Pioneer Valley will have a new opportunity to give their children a Jewish education with the opening of Bar Lavi Hebrew School, a new program of Chabad of Northampton. Designed for children from diverse Jewish backgrounds, the school’s mission is to nurture a love of Torah, a love of mitzvos and a deep pride in being Jewish. At Bar Lavi Hebrew School,
Judaism is not taught as a subject to memorize. It is experienced as a vibrant inheritance that belongs to every Jewish child, according to the school. Through lessons, hands-on activities, Hebrew reading, holiday celebrations, songs, stories and friendships, students will discover more about the Torah. “Our greatest hope is that every child walks through our doors excited to learn and leaves with a stronger connection to their Jew-
ish identity,” said Rabbi Shmuel Kravitsky, co-director of Chabad of Northampton. “We want children to feel that Torah is their treasure, and being Jewish is something to celebrate with joy.” At Bar Lavi Hebrew School, every lesson is designed to inspire curiosity, kindness, confidence and a lifelong connection to Jewish life, according to the school. It combines high educational standards with creativity. Students will explore Jewish his-
tory and traditions, develop Hebrew reading skills, celebrate the Jewish holidays and learn practical mitzvos in an environment where questions are welcomed and every child is valued. The school welcomes families from across the Jewish spectrum. No synagogue membership or prior Jewish education is required and every child is embraced with warmth and respect, according to the school. Bar Lavi Hebrew School is
now accepting registrations for the upcoming school year. Families are invited to learn more about the curriculum, schedule a visit and experience firsthand the welcoming atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Chabad of Northampton. Classes meet on Sundays throughout the school year, which started Aug. 30, from 9-11:30 a.m. For more information or to register, visit chabadnorthampton.com/hebrewschool26
waiting till it’s too late.” licly filed with the city. However, “We’ve certainly received a meeting where we put two comAs of press time, there is no the plant’s closure and its lay- lot of community information mittees together. So that’s what I Data Centers offormal proposal on the Coca-Co- off of 175 employees prompted and concern about this, that it think we can talk about.” Continued from page 1
be beneficial to all of us instead
la site, and, in general, no data center application has been pub-
questions from residents across the city, according to Loisel.
is really [incumbent upon] us to be able to establish something at least temporary very quickly,” said At Large City Councilor Meg Robbins, who wondered if a moratorium on the centers could be placed while the council explores the issue. “What’s happened in other communities is they have been thoughtful. They have done planning. They have done research.” All councilors appeared receptive to researching data centers, but at least one felt it would be better to use one of the council’s existing committees to complete this work. At Large City Councilor Garrick Perry said that forming a joint committee is “not a good idea” because it would hamstring the process of gathering information. He suggested the idea of maybe combining two of the council’s committees to explore the issue in-depth. “I don’t think that having a joint committee is a bad idea in general, but if we’re really trying to deal with an issue and start these discussions, I’m very hesitant to support this path,” Perry said. “Maybe we look at places where we can start this conversation, having department heads come through, maybe having a
City Council President Rachel Maiore seemed open to that idea. “I’ve been ambivalent about that as well, whether it’s like, should we make a new structure? Should we utilize one of our committees?” Maiore said. “We’ll unpack it a little bit more.” Ward 6 City Councilor Chris Stratton said the sheer size of data centers across the country is what’s really driving discussions. He specifically highlighted the emergence of massive artificial intelligence workloads and how they’re using a ton of power and releasing a lot of heat, leading to environmental issues. He urged the City Council to add a size threshold to any future zoning ordinance and specifically wondered what the data processing footprint is like in Northampton. “It’s not just ‘data center bad’; it’s ‘huge data center bad,’” Stratton said. “And that’s maybe a distinction that we would want to make in an ordinance between local work and being the regional center for this, which is not a winning bargain for a community.” More concrete discussions about forming a committee, or whether a new committee is necessary, will come at a later meeting.
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DINING ENTERTAINMENT www.TheReminder.com
From left:The push-up sushi from K’s Japanese Restaurant. Fried Oreos from Simply Gluten Free. The homemade fried chicken with Chef Vin’s Special Sauce from the Storrowton Soup Shack. The Yankee Boy colossal centennial lobster roll. The Uncrustaburger from White Hut and the Maple Bourbon Corn Beef Sandwich from Harpoon Beer Hall. Reminder Publishing photos by Chris Maza, Tyler Garnet and Dennis Hackett
Big E
Continued from page 2
taking the Big E stage for the first time, offering a variety of traditional fried fair food but with a gluten free twist. They will offer funnel cakes, fried Oreos, corndogs, chicken tenders, a jumbo mozzarella stick, fountain lemonade and other assorted cold drinks. Chris ended up having his first-ever corn dog from Simply Gluten Free. “Let it be known that my first corn dog ever was at the Big E media taste and was gluten-free to boot. And it was downright enjoyable. The deep-fried Oreo wasn’t overtaken by batter and grease, which can sometimes be the case with those kinds of treats, and the flavor of the chocolate cookie and cream filling were still very prominent,” he said. Storrowton Soup Shack Storrowton’s presence at the Big E has gotten a bit of a mythological status from Reminder employees past and present with many of us looking back fondly on the cheeseburger chowder they offered years ago. This year they are bringing homemade fried chicken with a side of Chef Vin’s Special Sauce. Chris said the chicken was perfect. “The Storrowton Soup Shack’s fried chicken is perfectly done. I’m not a big fan of heavily breaded, heavily fried foods in general, but this version is light and flavorful and the Chef
Vin’s Special Sauce for dipping adds some extra flavor and a little kick,” he said. The Paddock The Paddock will be setting up shop on West Road and will be bringing their stack, which is four specialty sliders topped and stacked, then drizzled in smoky, spicy scauce made with ancho chiles, barbeque sauce and crispy onion straws. At the preview, they offered a maple bacon slider along with a slider with candied jalapeno. While most of our crew opted for the maple bacon one, I knew I had to try the candied jalapeno one, and I was not disappointed. The blend of the kick from the jalapeno and the sweet, candied flavor was an impressive mix of sweet and spicy. The burger also had a great flavor. Ryan said he enjoyed the maple bacon version. “I don’t know why, but I guess I was just infatuated with the salty-sweet combination today, even if my stomach doesn’t want me to be. The Paddock’s maple burger with cheddar cheese and bacon was another delight in that canon thanks to the intersection of those disparate flavors. I also like the handheld portion; it’s the perfect amount of sweet and savory; one flavor never subsumes the other,” he said. V-One Vodka As always, V-One Vodka brought a variety of drinks to this year’s preview, including their new Late Checkout Vodka seltzer, a caramel espresso martini
NORTHAMPTON PARKS & REC. NOW ACCEPTING TEAMS FOR MEN’S AND CO-ED FALL SOFTBALL LEAGUES NORTHAMPTON — The Northampton Parks and Recreation Department is now accepting teams for their men’s and co-ed fall softball leagues. The deadline for all fees, rosters and a signed player conduct form is Thursday, Sept. 3, by 4 p.m. Teams in each league will play a 10-12 game regular season schedule followed by playoffs. League play starts after Labor Day and will continue through early November. For more information, or to request an information packet, contact Northampton Parks & Recreation at 413-587-1040, stop by the office at 100A Bridge Road or visit their website at northamptonma.gov/recreation.
and a spirited Christmas bar. I went for the raspberry seltzer and I was impressed with the flavor. I felt the raspberry flavoring was natural and had the signature taste of V-One Vodka, but it wasn’t overpowering. It was the perfect palette cleanser after a bunch of food and will be a refreshing grab to bring with you throughout the fair. Chris gave the caramel espresso martini a try. “I am not a martini drinker, but I am certainly a coffee fan, so this was one I had to try, albeit with some trepidation. My bravery paid off, however. The caramel sweetness and bitterness of the espresso play off each other really nicely in this drink, complemented by some alcoholic bite that is present but not overpowering,” he said. V-One Vodka will be located at the Young Building this year. White Hut This year, White Hut is bringing an Uncrusta Double Burger, which is exactly what it sounds
like. A burger with two fried Uncrustables serving as the buns. Chris said the burger is a good flavor for people looking to try new things. “It’s sweet, savory and salty, all rolled into one. At times, the peanut butter and jelly can overwhelm the burger patties on the pallet, but then your next bit might do the opposite. It’s an interesting change-up and if you’re one who heads to the fair with a flair for the adventurous, this is worth taking a bite,” he said. White Hut will be in the Food Court. Yankee Boy Yankee Boy, which is celebrating its 100th birthday, is bringing a colossal centennial lobster roll with lobster meat sauteed in warm butter and served on a brioche roll with lemon and Old Boy/garlic aioli. They also offered honey barbeque sticky wings. While Tyler said he loved the lobster roll, he wished he could’ve had one of the full size ones. “My only complaint about the
lobster roll is that we were only allowed a small sample bite because I wanted more. The lobster itself was super soft, warm and buttery and had all the qualities you look for in a good lobster roll. The bun we had at the media preview was not the one that will be served during the actual fair, so I will be going back for a lobster roll when the Big E starts,” he said. Ryan said he enjoyed the wing and was surprised it wasn’t messier. “The flavor profile snuck up on me here. I’m so used to sweet barbecue sauce that I was not ready for how tangy the wing was right off the bat. By the time you’re done with that first bite, though, you’re graced with that classic sweet barbecue flavor. Surprisingly, I enjoyed that roller coaster ride,” he said. Yankee Boy will be located on Springfield Road. Readers will have the opportunity to try all of these new menu items when the Big E kicks off on Sept. 18.
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DiZoglio ostracizes Legislature for ‘patronizing’ voters By Ryan Feyre
rfeyre@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — State Auditor Diana DiZoglio does not believe Massachusetts is immune to the federal government’s threat to democracy. In fact, she thinks the state is very much part of the problem. “I do think that democracy is under attack across our nation at the federal level, of course,” DiZoglio said on the “So That Reminds Me” podcast at Hampshire County Sheriff Nick Cocchi’s picnic on Aug. 19. “But it’s also under attack here in Massachusetts in our own state government. And it’s not being talked about enough. We, the people, have rights. Our rights are being violated. The law is being broken by the lawmakers.” Her consternation stems from what she perceives as the Massachusetts Legislature’s total neglect of the state’s voters. Almost two years ago, 72% of voters said they wanted the state Legislature
Swan Lake Continued from page 5
world-class ballet accessible has always been World Ballet Company’s mission. They not only aim to bring full-scale classical productions to the largest cultural capitals, but also to audiences in cities across the country. “We also wanted ballet to feel welcoming,” said Gorskaya. “There is sometimes an idea that you need to know the terminology, understand every mime gesture, and read a 12-page synopsis before the curtain rises. You don’t. You simply have to sit down and allow yourself to feel something magical.” Now in its fourth full-time season, Gorskaya said World Ballet Company creates productions for people who already love ballet, as well as those who are uninitiated.
to be audited. Yet, DiZoglio said that the Legislature is using its power to patronize and undermine those voters. This year alone, the state’s House of Representatives passed a bill that outlines the administrative functions of the Legislature to audit but said constitutional functions could not be audited. The bill also does not apply the existing public records law to the Legislature. Over a month later, the state Senate passed its own bill that creates a formal process for requesting legislative records and adds a press shield to protect journalists. But like the House bill, it stops short of applying the state’s public records law to the Legislature. Instead, it’s more limited in scope, covering records that are largely already available, according to the State House News Service. In her interview with the “So That Reminds Me” hosts, DiZoglio argued that these bills are
“That second person is very important to us. We want them to leave surprised by how dramatic, entertaining, funny and human ballet can be,” she said. Hartwick added, “We hear from people all the time who say, ‘This was my first ballet.’ That may be the most meaningful compliment we receive because a first experience has enormous power. If someone falls in love with ballet during one of our performances, they may return to the theater for the rest of their life.” Since its beginning, World Ballet Company has performed in more than 300 cities and reached over 600,000 audience members. “The heart of the company has remained the same,” added Gorskaya. “We still care about every city, every performance and every audience member. Whether we are performing in a major metropolitan center or a smaller community, the production must
meant to overturn the audit Massachusetts residents voted for and sabotage the November ballot question asking if the governor’s office and Legislature should be subject to the public records law. “The sheriffs that are here today, every city councilor, every select board member, every single municipal official and state official, we all follow the public
records laws, but the Legislature and governor’s office exempt themselves from the same laws,” DiZoglio said. “And this allows for financial receipts to be hidden from the general public, the taxpayers. It allows for state contracts to be hidden from the general public.” DiZoglio believes these recent actions go beyond just the audit and the public records law at this point. If the governor’s office and Legislature have the power to pass bills that nullify ballot questions, she fears that people are losing their constitutional protections. She said the constitution is there to protect people, not politicians. “That ballot process is in place to actually make sure that the people are protected from government tyranny,” DiZoglio said. “And when you have a legislative body that says, ‘oh, well, that’s not really what we’re doing, and you all just don’t understand,’ not only is it dismissive of the voters
and patronizing to the voters who very much know what they’re going to vote for, but it also is anti-democratic.” The roadblocks have made her job difficult, DiZoglio said. Most politicians, when they run for office, need to appear infallible as they stroll the campaign trail. In her case, however, DiZoglio said she almost considered not running for reelection this November because the bullying and retaliation toward her office have “gotten out of hand.” Still, she said the public galvanizes her to keep going, so that’s exactly what she plans to do. “I really feel a responsibility at this point to keep carrying the torch on this issue,” DiZoglio said. “I helped to start this … I lit the match, and I’m carrying the torch now, and I want to see this through. So I am running for reelection, and I am also working to pass the ballot question into law that will subject the statehouse to the public records law.”
feel equally important. Nobody should receive the ‘travel-size’ version of ballet.” Hartwick added, “There isn’t one anyway. The tutus refuse to fold that small.” This ethos applies to their tour stop in Northampton, as the company’s relationship with the city first began in 2023 when they brought “Cinderella” to the Academy. “Swan Lake” was first performed there in 2024, and last year, they staged “The Great Gatsby” before returning to perform “Cinderella” this past spring. “At this point, Northampton is less of a tour stop and more of a committed relationship,” said Hartwick. “What stands out is the community’s openness. Northampton audiences embrace the great classic ballets, but they were equally enthusiastic about ‘The Great Gatsby,’ which is an original contemporary production with a completely different
theatrical language. That curiosity makes the city especially rewarding for us.” Gorskaya said that the Academy of Music Theatre is also a “wonderful” home for ballet because of its history, character and intimacy. She said that allows audiences to be remarkably close to dancers. “People sometimes tell us, ‘I would love to come, but I don’t know anything about ballet.’ Our answer is always: ‘perfect.’ Come exactly as you are. You do not need to study ‘Swan Lake’ before seeing it any more than you need to study love before falling in love,” Gorskaya said. Hartwick added, “The most exciting part of our work is watching a theater fill with several generations at once — children dressed for their first ballet, longtime ballet lovers, couples on a date and people who simply decided to try something new. For a few hours, they all enter the same world to-
gether. That is what ‘Ballet Everywhere, Ballet for All’ means to us. It is not simply a slogan. It is the reason we built World Ballet Company, and the reason we keep returning to communities like Northampton.” Tickets are now on sale at worldballetcomapny.com/northampton1 or at aomtheatre.com, ranging from $54.58 to $99.96. The show has a two-hour and 30-minute run time, including a 20-minute intermission. The show is recommended for ages 5 and up. The upcoming 2026-2027 World Ballet Company season will also include performances of “The Nutcracker” from Nov. 13 to Dec. 28, “Swan Lake” and “The Sleeping Beauty” from Feb. 4 to May 15, 2027. For more information about World Ballet Company, visit worldballetcompany.com.
State Auditor Diana DiZoglio. Reminder Publishing file photo
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Offer expires 09/30/26. Valid on qualifying purchases only. 50% off installation reflects a 5% discount applied to the total project price. Valid on new orders only; not valid on prior sales or estimates. Promotional offers are available only during the initial in-home consultation with a Yankee Home representative. Guaranteed installation before December 25 applies only to qualifying bath products and is subject to product availability, scheduling, and weather delays. Offers cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. Financing offer is for 12 months with no deposit, no payments, and no interest for qualified buyers. Financing is subject to third-party credit approval; not all applicants will qualify. If not paid in full within the promotional period, interest may be charged from the purchase date. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Calls and communications with Yankee Home may be recorded for quality and training purposes. MA Lic. #160584 | CT Lic. #HIC.0673924 | NH Lic. #611475.
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WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS | THEREMINDER.COM
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HAMPSHIRE | SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026
TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD CALL 413-213-6170 • CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS THURSDAY AT NOON
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ARTICLES FOR SALE
Raymour & Flanagan Lamont Reclining Power Sofa Removable backs. Recliners & USB charging on both ends. Like new/7 months old. Beige, 88"L X 37"W. Asking $900. Call 413-562-6514 or text 413-250-8731
AUTO SERVICES Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398
BUSINESS PROPERTY FOR SALE: 35,000 square foot office/light industrial building on 4.5 acres of land in Concord, Massachusetts. Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac, this property is 15 minutes from Rte. 128 and 20 minutes from Rte. 495. Not only is there town water and sewer but the town of Concord has its own electric company. In addition, Concord has underground Concord fibre optic internet. 7 minutes from historic Concord center, enjoy Walden pond, Louisa May Alcott's house and many other historic sites as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Use the entire building or keep some of the tenants already occupying the building. Mowing, plowing, and other maintenance already in place could remain. Call with any questions: 978.580.1895
HEALTH & MEDICAL Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with d e t a i l s ! 1 - 8 5 5 - 5 2 6 - 1 0 6 0 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258
HOME IMPROVEMENT GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade. 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-299-7135
MISCELLANEOUS DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK, BOAT, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1888-305-7286 today! NO MORE CLEANING OUT GUTTERS! Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a non-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855-925-2643 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.
MISCELLANEOUS
MISCELLANEOUS
VACATION RENTAL
WANTED TO BUY
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 877-461-0698. Have zip code ready when calling!
Pest control: Protect your home from pests safely. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders & more. Locally owned & affordable. For service or inspection today! 877-916-2103 Have zip code ready!
Wanted! CASH for: ANYTHING OF SIGNIFICANT VALUE! Machinist, Specialty, and Mechanic Tools, Electronics/Audio, Sports Cards, Vintage Toys, Antiques/Collectibles, much more! Call/Text Sam 413-531-5381
BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1877-543-9189
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a free 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free Consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 877-621-7517
Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No longterm contract, no hidden fees free activation. All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866
Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Free quote. Ask about first application special! 877-484-8583
DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB games! Choice Pkg $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devic-es. HBO Max included for 3 mos w/Choice Package or higher. No contract or hidden fees! Restrictions apply. IVS 866-859-0405
Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network! For more information www.communitypublishers.com/category/all-products
End your tax worries today. Let us make your tax problem our priority. Scared, stuck with high tax amounts? Our A+ tax professionals can help. Free consultation. Priority Tax 855959-2267
SunSetter. America's Number One Awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Save $350 today! 855-914-1148
Home Break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-877-9070316 Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930 Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends soon. 844-501-3208 MobileHelp, America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936
Need Cash Quickly?
TOP DOLLAR PAID for old vintage Guitars! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Grecsch, Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Etc. 1930's to 1980's. Call 866433-8277
Water damage cleanup & restoration: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family & home value! 877-318-6832. Have zip code ready!
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Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971
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Need cash quickly? We buy houses in any condition. Get a fair cash offer within 24 hours! Call today. Liz Buys Houses: 833-359-4707 No more cleaning gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter backed by no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty. Call 1-833-610-1936 to schedule FREE inspection/estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Military & Seniors get additional 10% off. Limited time. Restrictions apply, see rep for details.
PART-TIME DRIVERSNEEDED NEEDED PARTIME DRIVERS
Peace of mind & early detection - Now more than ever, it’s important to get screened for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life Line Screening is simple & painless. 833-970-4172
We are looking for Home Delivery Drivers to join our team. • $15/hour plus mileage reimbursement • 16-24 Hours per week. • Delivery experience preferred (newspaper delivery, USPS, Amazon, etc.), but not required, as well as knowledge of Northampton- Florence, and/or Westfield. • Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle. If interested, please contact Nate Halla Nhalla@thereminder.com • 413-213-6175
AMHERST
Julie Miles to Julie Miles, trustee, and Julie Miles Revocable Trust, 4 Moorland St., $100. Mordecai Jay Golin and Eliza Lee Wing Yee to Terence J. Kennedy and Adeline S. Kennedy, 8 Emerson Court, $468,000. Alexander G. Alvarado, Alexander Geovanny Alvarado, Johanna R. Alvarado and Johanna Rachel Alvarado to Kevin J. Pascoe, Kevin James Pascoe and Meena Kumari, 1270 West St., $405,000. Madalina Defta and Arash Hashemi to Keith D. Kittrell and Annaliese D. Kittrell, 585 Station Road, $939,000. Elaine Kenseth to Erin Freedman and Aaron Sarvet, 28 Hulst Road, $720,000.
BELCHERTOWN
M & G Land Development LLC, to Hilary M. Danek and Bryan Danek, 249 Jensen St., Georgia R. Kittrell to Jermaine Crosson and Dawn Crosson, 12 Overlook Drive, Michelle R. Kotowski to Lisa Andrews and Michael Andrews, 150 Ludlow St.,
$611,280. $785,000. $495,000.
EASTHAMPTON
Elyane Harney to Barbara Goldstein, trustee, Shoshana Wirth, trustee, and Goldstein Wirth Real Estate Trust, 46 Pomeroy St., $850,000. Charles E. Mitchell and Barbara Mitchell to Stephen J. Jadczak and Nishi Jadczak, 20 Pine Hill Road, $590,000. Anne-Marie Nodurf to Charles Mitchell and Barbara Mitchell, 6 Valley Lane, $425,000.
HATFIELD
4 West Street Associates LLC, and 77 West Street Associates LLC, to M-M2 Holdings LLC, 4 West St.,
NORTHAMPTON
$5,422,500.
Mark G. Bevan, trustee, and Carol Bevan-Bogart Revocable Trust to Dimitri Steblovsky, 54 South Park Terrace, $670,000. Jane Carey to Eric Spargo and Roberta Spargo, 162 Prospect Ave., $330,000. Vrajeshkumar Patel to Barbara F. Deines, 80 Damon Road, $293,000. Sean Marshall McCarthy to William Wright Abbot IV, and Cynthia Cox, 19 East St., $315,000.
Susan L. Cooper and Scott R. Cooper to Alexander Pavoll, trustee, Melissa Sue Abrahams, trustee, and Apma Family Wealth Trust, 422 Park Hill Road, $1,420,000. Roger G. Lobdell and Rebecca McDonald, attorney-in-fact, to John Wood and Leah Corcillo, 36 Brookwood Drive, $363,000. Tamreh Herlihy to Aaron David Brandes, 21 Mountain Laurel Path, $24,000. Nan Walsh, estate, to Mary E. Melnik Penney, personal representative, to Fitzgerald Home Solutions LLC, 107 Riverside Drive, $255,000. Nu-Way Homes Inc., to Susan L. Cooper and Scott R. Cooper, 14 Garfield St., $710,402. Alice Hearst, personal representative, and Elizabeth V. Spelman, estate, to Shepley Metcalf, trustee, and Shepley Metcalf Family Trust, 15 Massasoit St., $869,000. Catherine West Lowry, trustee, Rebecca M. Martin, trustee, and Judith A. West Real Estate Trust to Jeremy Salwen and Diana Renee Valverde Paniagua, 11 Plymouth Ave., $740,000. Arthur M. Spencer, trustee, Patricia A. Spencer, trustee, and Spencer Family Trust to John R. Cole and Joanne F. Cole, 48 Hickory Drive, $540,000. Richard D. Farrick, trustee, Roberta Lee Cesarek, trustee, and Norma Lee Realty Trust to King Street Market LLC, 90-92 King St., $650,000. Barbara K. Dadmun to Arthur Spencer, Patricia Spencer and Michelle Lyn Bouley, 30 Birch Hill Road, $742,500.
SOUTH HADLEY
Halifax Capital LLC, to Drew Nalewanski and Elizabeth Martins Nalewanski, 13-15 Canal St., $683,000. Patricia Mae Matty and Michael R. Matty to Katleyn Caligaris and Matthew Caligaris, 22 Spring Meadows, $1,200,000. Karolyn K. Ryan, personal representative, Edward A. Klepacki Jr., personal representative, and Eleanor C. Klepacki, estate, to Susan Ora Lewin Opitz, 34 Leahey Ave., $625,000. Steven R. Longpre, trustee, Douglas D. Longpre, trustee, Longpre Irrevocable Trust, Doris M. Longpre and Steven R. Longpre, attorney-in-fact, to Brian Costello and Megan Costello, 80 Judd Ave., $325,000. Richard J. Irzyk to Nostra Property Management LLC, 8 Landers St., $80,000. Timothy M. Netkovick and Catherine B. Netkovick to Marlene Gardner, 3 Mary Lyon Drive, $345,000.
SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026 | HAMPSHIRE
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THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS
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