A Chicopee man was arraigned on multiple charges following a child exploitation investigation that multiple state agencies collaborated on. He was arrested in West Springfield.
Page 2
Traditional Celtic festival coming to West Springfield
As the last chill of a snowpacked winter fades away over the Pioneer Valley, the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England is bringing a tradition to West Springfield that dates back 5,000 years in Ireland’s history, welcoming the beginning of summer in the Celtic calendar.
Page 5
AGAWAM
Residents object to proposed intersection changes as danger to Pajer’s
In theory, redesigning the intersection of Cooper, Suffield and Rowley streets will improve safety, but the reality may mean the end for a mainstay of the community.
Page 4
Scoreboard leans into history as neighborhood bar
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
AGAWAM — Same name, new owners. Scoreboard Bar & Grille, a sports bar at 15 King St., is under new ownership, but co-owner Tom Murphy said longtime patrons will be happily surprised by the new interior and comfortable neighborhood bar feel.
Murphy said he and his business partners, Daniel and Timothy Dineen, knew the previous owner. Both the business and building were up for auction, along with the equipment and the all-alcohol beverage license. Murphy said the bar fit well with the other businesses in their portfolio, so the trio decided to buy it.
Another establishment owned by Murphy and the Dineens,
Murphy’s Pub, is just two miles away from Scoreboard. Murphy does not see the businesses as competition, though. While Murphy’s Pub has somewhat unexpectedly grown into a busy restaurant, he said Scoreboard will be “something quainter: a local, neighborhood bar.” Murphy said the businesses will attract different clientele. While people come from “all over,” eat and drink at Murphy’s Pub, he said the patrons at Scoreboard are local to north Agawam and West Springfield.
Being located on the border between the towns and having a “strong West Springfield following,” led Murphy to have a sign made that will keep the score of the annual Thanksgiving football game between Aga-
wam and West Springfield high schools. Murphy proudly said it was the oldest rivalry in Western Massachusetts.
While on auction, the bar was advertised as turnkey, but that was not the experience Murphy and the Dineens had after purchasing it.
“The renovation was extensive,” Murphy said. “We went down to the studs almost.” The bar was rebuilt in same footprint as its predecessor, but Murphy said they were able to create more walking room around it.
The owners removed a faux fireplace that had been a central feature of the bar. Behind it, they found a small room. The extra space allowed them to build accessible restrooms. They also included an accessible entrance at
the opposite corner of the building from the main door. Gone is the old white paint, exposing the ceiling’s hardwood beams. Several televisions mounted along all four of the walls, each tuned to a different game, means no one can mistake Scoreboard for anything but a sports bar.
“I think people will be surprised by the update,” Murphy said. “It’s clean, it’s bright, it’s inviting.”
In keeping with the neighborhood feel, Murphy said they tried to keep the prices affordable, which was a challenge. However, a minimal menu helped. And if people get really hungry, he said, there is a full-service restaurant not far away — at Murphy’s Pub.
Tom Murphy stands in front of the bar at Scoreboard Bar & Grille, which he and his business partners recently bought and renovated. Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
Chicopee man facing child exploitation charges
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — A Chicopee man was arraigned on multiple charges following a child exploitation investigation that multiple state agencies collaborated on.
Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni announced on April 22 that Edgar Delvalle, 47, of Chicopee, was arraigned in Springfield District Court on April 21 following his arrest as part of a multi-agency investigation into the attempted exploitation of children.
The investigation was initiated by the New Jersey State Police, whose undercover investigators identified Delvalle through online communications indicating an intent to exploit young children.
“This case began with the proactive and highly skilled work of our partners at the New Jersey State Police,” Gulluni said. “We are grateful for their commitment to protecting children across state lines. From there, our State Police Detective Unit took on the critical work of advancing this investigation, coordinating efforts, building the case, and ultimately bringing this operation to a safe and successful conclusion alongside our law enforcement partners.”
The investigation was conducted in coordination with the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, along with members of the
SO THAT REMINDS ME
Massachusetts State Police STOP Team, Cyber Crimes Unit, Crime Scene Services Section and local law enforcement partners in Chicopee and West Springfield.
The investigation began when undercover investigators identified an individual engaging in online communications indicating an intent to exploit children. Through a coordinated effort between the New Jersey State Police and the Massachusetts State Police, investigators monitored those communications and develop a plan to safely intervene.
On Friday, April 17, law enforcement executed a covert operation at a motel in West Springfield, where Delvalle had arranged what he believed would be a meeting involving children.
“He was taken into custody without incident, due to the planning and manpower organized by the Massachusetts State Police and local agencies,” Gulluni stated.
Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble was also at the press conference to discuss the operation and successful arraignment of Delvalle.
“This law enforcement team used their training and skill to identify a dangerous suspect and execute a plan to safely arrest him and prevent further harm to the community,” Noble stated. “As our work continues as part of the national Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program, we implore parents to know what their children are doing online.
On the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me” regular host Tyler Garnet was put into the guest chair as hosts Dennis Hackett and Ryan Feyre talked with him about the budget issues in South Hadley and the challenges covering a difficult budget season as voters shot down two potential overrides. Dennis and Ryan also give updates on some stories around the area and a quick sports minute with the NHL and NBA playoffs in full swing and baseball season getting underway. Head to thereminder.com/ourpodcast or search “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform to listen.
Together, we can protect innocent lives from the devastating impact of this horrible abuse.”
Delvalle is charged with two counts of trafficking of a person under 18 for sexual servitude, two counts of paying for sexual conduct with a child under 18, two counts of enticement of a child under 16, two counts of felony attempt to commit rape of a child and possession of a Class B substance with intent to distribute.
He is currently being held without the right to bail as a result of a violation of probation out of Superior Court. On the new charges, bail has been set at $250,000, without prejudice.
Delvalle is next scheduled to appear in court on May 20 for a pretrial hearing. The defendant is presumed innocent until
proven guilty.
Gulluni noted that Delvalle has a prior criminal history involving offenses against children.
The prior case dates back to 2018, when Delvalle was arrested after arranging to meet a woman for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts involving her young child.
As part of that investigation, law enforcement recovered child sexual abuse material from his phone, including images involving very young children, and evidence established that he was directly involved in the creation of some of that material.
In 2021, Delvalle pleaded guilty in Hampden Superior Court to multiple charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors and was sentenced to a term of seven to eight years in
state prison, along with additional concurrent sentences on related offenses.
He received significant credit for time served while awaiting trial, which is why he was released from custody in January 2025. Following his release, he was placed on probation with strict conditions, including GPS monitoring, a prohibition on contact with children and requirements to complete sex offender treatment.
Gulluni concluded with a message to the community when it comes to making sure people like this serve the time they deserve.
He stated, “It will be now the responsibility and objective of the prosecutors in my special victims unit to prosecute this individual pursuant to the law but do so as vigorously as possible.”
From left: Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni (left) and Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble (right) discuss a child exploitation investigation during a press conference on April 23.
Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
Parole Board nominee defends record despite critics
By Katie Castellani State House News Service
BOSTON — Opponents to Gov. Maura Healey’s latest Parole Board nominee raised red flags over his lack of background with behavioral health issues and indigent clients, as well as the potential he could leave before his five-year term is up.
“What we need now is balance,” Stacey Borden, founder and executive director of New Beginnings Reentry Services, told the Governor’s Council on April 22.
Borden, who previously ran for a seat on the council, spoke in opposition to Healey’s nomination of Vincent DeMore to the Parole Board. Borden, and other opponents, argued the Parole Board does not need another voice from law enforcement or prosecutors. Instead, they say the board needs someone with a deeper understanding, even lived experience, with incarceration as well as backgrounds in other fields like mental and behavioral health, substance use issues and trauma recovery.
“We need people who know how to assess readiness or reiteration, not simply risk through fear based assumptions,” Borden said. “Effective parole decision-making requires a grounded understanding of the realities of incarceration, institutional behavior and genuine program
participation.”
DeMore, whom Healey nominated to the board on April 15, worked in the Suffolk County district attorney’s office for more than a decade. He is also a captain in the U.S. Army Reserve where he is currently a special victim’s counsel to victims of sexual assault, child abuse and domestic violence.
Councilor Tara Jacobs opened her questioning of DeMore acknowledging that his background is “broader and more nuanced than what’s being suggested today.” She also said the opponents’ points mirrored her reaction to DeMore’s nomination and asked him to respond to the concerns that were raised.
DeMore said he does not take the comments personally. He also shared that he has somewhat of an understanding of being institutionalized after returning home from basic training with the U.S. Army.
“Is it remotely like what someone who experiences, you know, 20 years in our state correctional facilities is like? Absolutely not. I don’t even suggest that at all,” he said. “I do have an understanding of what institutionalization does feel like, even if it’s on a vastly smaller [scale].”
Asked why he wanted to join the Parole Board, DeMore said he saw it as a way to coalesce his experiences to help his community
and further the board’s mission.
“My work as a prosecutor is a mile wide and an inch deep in terms of impact. My work as a defense attorney is about an inch wide but a mile deep in terms of impact,” he told councilors. “The Parole Board offers an opportunity to merge the two together to have the greatest impact to really help my community.”
DeMore added that he does represent a few indigent clients. He also said others on the board don’t have as much post-conviction or prosecution experience as him and he has worked more than others in trial and appeals courts. Additionally, DeMore said his work with the U.S. military is unique to the board.
Others raised concerns that DeMore may follow in the footsteps of other parole board members who left before their five-year term was up to pursue
a judgeship. Opponents of DeMore’s appointment urged councilors to ask DeMore if he would commit to the full five-year term.
“As we sit here, is your intention to complete the first five years?” Councilor Terrence Kennedy asked DeMore.
DeMore responded, “As I sit here today, yes. That’s the work that’s in front of me.”
Earlier in the hearing, DeMore had said he would serve on the board “as long as it’s the right place for me in terms of where I can provide a positive impact. If that’s five or 10 or 15 years.”
If DeMore is confirmed, he would fill the vacancy left when Tonomey Coleman was confirmed as a judge on the District Court.
Katie Castellani is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro reach her at kcastellani@statehousenews.com.
Fire marshal, officials offer safety tips after e-bike
STOW — After two recent house fires involving the batteries from electric bicycles, Massachusetts fire officials are reminding residents of safety measures they can take to reduce their risk.
“As more people use e-bikes and other micromobility devices, it’s important to spread the word about buying, charging, and storing them safely,” said State Fire Marshal Jon Davine. “The lithium-ion batteries in these devices can fail rapidly and violently if they’re damaged, defective or recalled.”
On the morning of April 15, Falmouth Fire/Rescue responded to a Club Valley Drive home after a resident called 911. On arrival, firefighters found heavy fire in the attached garage, with flames spreading to the main structure. Firefighters brough the fire under control within about 40 minutes and rescued a family pet. No injuries were reported but all residents were displaced.
The origin and cause of the fire were investigated by the Falmouth Fire Department and State Police fire investigators assigned to the state fire marshal’s office. They collectively determined that the fire began in the garage with the apparent failure of an e-bike’s lithium-ion battery.
AGAWAM — A group of local eldercare agencies and facilities is sponsoring “Nacho Average Wellness,” Thursday, May 7 from 4:30-6:30 p.m.at Heritage Woods, 464 Main St.
The event is designed to offer caregivers and professionals time to step away from their busy lives, reconnect with themselves, and connect with others, according to Chantal Bernard, founder of Chanda Care, one of the sponsors.
The featured topic of the eve-
“When you’re buying an e-bike or other equipment powered by lithium-ion batteries, look for the mark of an independent testing lab like UL or Intertek/ETL,” said Falmouth acting Fire Chief Chad Absten. “Listed products meet important safety standards.”
The next afternoon, the Holyoke Fire Department responded to a report of a fire in an Essex Street apartment building, where firefighters were able to contain the fire to one unit. Holyoke Fire and State Police fire investigators learned that an occupant had been charging his e-bike battery and noticed it getting hot and beginning to smoke. He placed it in the kitchen sink, where it caught fire. Residents safely escaped and no injuries were reported.
“Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, use the manufacturer’s charging equipment, and disconnect it when the device is fully charged,” said Holyoke Fire Chief John Kadlewicz. “Aftermarket accessories and overcharged batteries have been linked to serious fires.”
E-bikes and other micromobility devices have accounted for more than 20% of the incidents reported through an investigative checklist in use by the State Fire
ning is “Don’t be a Burnt Taco: How to Come Back to Yourself,” with a focus on conversation around simple, practical ways for caregivers to reduce stress and prevent burnout.
Margaritas, including a non-alcoholic option, will be available along with a taco bar and other light bites. In addition, guests will be able to enter a raffle for a wellness basket valued at $100.
The event is sponsored by Chanda Care, Chanda’s House,
Marshal’s office and many local fire departments since 2023. Davine, Absten and Kadlewicz provided these safety tips for e-bikes and other devices powered by lithium-ion batteries: Storage
• Read and follow follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions.
• Store lithium-ion batteries and the devices they power at room temperature whenever possible. Don’t leave them in a hot car, in direct sunlight, or in freezing temperatures.
• Keep these items away from combustible materials.
• Store scooters and e-bikes outdoors if possible. If you must store them indoors, keep them away from doors, windows and stairways. Always keep these routes clear so you can escape and emergency personnel can enter.
Charging
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
• Always use the manufacturer’s battery, cord, and power adapter made specifically for the device. Aftermarket and generic accessories have been linked to serious Li-ion battery fires.
• Plug the charger directly into a
wall outlet, not a power strip or extension cord.
• Don’t leave a device unattended while charging. Disconnect the charger when the device is fully charged: do not overcharge the device.
• Charge devices on a hard, stable surface — never on a bed, couch or pillow.
Use Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
• Use the battery designed for your device.
• Stop using the battery if it’s damaged.
• Stop using the battery if you notice an unusual odor, change in color, change in shape, leaking or odd noises. If you can do so safely, move the device away from anything that can burn and call your local fire department.
Disposal
• When it’s time to dispose of the battery, don’t put it in the trash or household recycling. Lithium-ion batteries can cause a fire if damaged in a trash or recycling compactor.
• Visit call2recycle.org/locator to find a battery recycling location near you.
Brookhaven Hospice and Heritage Woods. There is no charge to attend. RSVP to tiffany.lagacy.genesishcc.com.
Operations
Managing Editors:
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
AGAWAM — In theory, redesigning the intersection of Cooper, Suffield and Rowley streets will improve safety, but the reality may mean the end for a mainstay of the community.
The proposed changes will narrow lanes, create bump-outs to calm traffic and require moving the free-standing sign at the Mobil Station. But of concern to many of those in the packed room at the April 21 City Council meeting, the plan would require the city to take a portion of the parking lot of Pajer’s Superette to create a sidewalk. One-by-one, nearly a dozen people stepped up to the microphone to protest the proposal.
Pajer’s owner, Alfred Pajer, was the first to speak. He said his family’s shop, a small building with a half-dozen parking spaces in front and another handful in the back, has operated on Cooper Street for almost 70 years. Losing an estimated one-third of the parking spaces means losing one-third of the customers, he said. Elderly people who park in front of the market because they cannot walk far would stop shopping there, he said. Choking up, he added that the store would have to close.
“I’m willing to work with the town, but they have to work with me,” Pajer said, choking up. With his grandson and family next to him, he told the council that his property would also be worth less. Pajer thanked the scores of people who attended the meeting to support him.
Some residents tried to poke holes in the logic of the redesign. One person said the narrower lanes would make it more difficult for emergency vehicles to fit through. Another resident predicted there would not be any oversight of the project. William Clark objected to the changes slowing down traffic. Gesturing
AGAWAM — John Milos, 33, of Agawam has been arrested following an investigation into the possession and dissemination of child sexual abuse material, according to Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni.
On Feb. 18, a trooper assigned to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office State Police Detective Unit initiated an investigation
to the crowd of concerned residents, he paraphrased language from the application, “Does it look like they ‘worked with everyone to optimize design?’”
Jenna Edmonds, an employee at Pajer’s, described the owners and her co-workers as family. She recalled her mother shopping there with her and her sibling in a stroller. She suggested the town invest the money in the schools instead.
“I think the main thing, right here, right now, is to save Pajer’s market,” said Jay Hammon. He suggested that, instead of taking part of the Pajer’s parking lot, the town use the “giant piece of land across the street that’s not being utilized.” That land is also owned by Pajer.
The council unanimously
after receiving a CyberTipline Report from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. The report indicated that a subscriber had uploaded files suspected to contain child sexual abuse material.
As a result of a subsequent subpoena and search warrant, investigators identified Milos as the suspect. A forensic analysis of
voted to table whether to take the land until after an April 27 workshop on the matter at which they can ask questions.
“We weren’t getting any answers, so it’s probably a good thing,” Pajer said about the workshop. “It’s very hard. There’s a lot of things I could have brought up that they didn’t give me time to bring up.” He said, “I’ve got a lot of people, friends, customers — they’re not really customers; people don’t get it. People have been coming in for three generations.”
Pajer said that his business is a distributor and, as such, large trucks deliver pallets of products to the shop. If he loses some of the parking lot, the trucks will not fit, he said, adding, “They don’t have to put 40 feet of side-
digital evidence recovered during the investigation revealed multiple files of child sexual abuse material, along with identifying information linking Milos to the possession and dissemination of the material.
On April 9, investigators obtained search warrants for the residence and Milos’ cellular phone.
The following day, April 10, mem-
walk in that nobody uses.”
Later, City Council President Anthony Russo spoke with Reminder Publishing . He said the land taking is the first step in the planning process. If the council votes to take the land, the project will then go to the Planning Board.
“I’ve known Mr. Pajer my whole life,” Russo said. “His son is a childhood friend of mine. I have met several times with the Pajer family. I’ve met with the mayor. I gave him my two cents on how we can make it a better project.”
Russo said, “We need to be business friendly... We have to be able to work with our businesses and come to a way that’s going to be done where they feel safe, secure and they can
bers of the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, along with assisting investigators, conducted surveillance and arrested Milos.
A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of multiple cellular phones, a computer and additional electronic storage devices.
Milos is charged with posses-
go on to be financially secure.” He said more changes can be made to the plans which were drafted by Agawam’s Engineering Department. The project is being funded, in part, by a $1 million grant from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission’s Community Mitigation Fund. Russo explained that grants from the fund can only be used on projects that address the impact MGM Springfield has had on Agawam. The city applied for the funding grant to redesign the intersection, as Suffield Street is a major route from Connecticut into downtown Springfield. It cannot be redirected to any other projects, he said.
sion of child sexual abuse material and distribution of child sexual abuse material. He was arraigned in Westfield District Court on Friday, April 10. The commonwealth requested $25,000 bail; the court set bail at $5,000. Milos is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The investigation remains ongoing.
A makeshift sign across from Pajer Superette, at the corner of Cooper and Rowley streets, reflects the community’s concern for the business’s future if intersection is redesigned.
Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
WEST SPRINGFIELD —
As the last chill of a snow-packed winter fades away over the Pioneer Valley, the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England is bringing a tradition to West Springfield that dates back 5,000 years in Ireland’s history, welcoming the beginning of summer in the Celtic calendar.
Bealtaine is the ancient fire festival on the cross-quarter day between the spring equinox and summer solstice. West Springfield’s first Bealtaine Festival is being held on ICC grounds at 429 Morgan Road on May 2 from noon to 9 p.m. The event is free admission.
The ICC website states “This time of the year celebrated the joy of light and abundance returning to the land. The ancient Celts would come together as a community to light bonfires signifying purification and transition. Hearth fires would be extinguished and a new fire lit. They would also move their animals to summer pastures, and the season was welcomed with the hopes of a prosperous harvest later in the year.”
The festival kicks off at noon with a Springfield Rifles rugby match, followed by an after-
noon of live music from Jimmy McArdle and Jerry Murphy and a wide variety of activities for the kids, such as making flower crowns, learning the tin whistle and face painting.
The Trinity Pub bar will also open at noon and the Boricua Bites food truck will serve “delicious snacks with a Puerto Rican flair,” according to the ICC, from noon to 5 p.m. The Irish House Restaurant will also serve a special limited dinner menu from 5-9 p.m. An ice cream truck will make an appearance for the kids.
The fires will be lit from 5-6 p.m. to celebrate Bealtaine, followed by live music with New Leaf from 6-9 p.m. inside the pub.
ICC Executive Director
Caroline Morrissey said this is an event for people of all ages and all cultures to enjoy and to usher in the spring and summer. She said that the ICC is also working to bring in more families with children so a new generation can grow to appreciate all aspects of Irish culture, from Irish history to the music and dance.
Morrissey has been executive director for eight months now and said she is trying to introduce new activities to have everybody see what the ICC is all about and to learn about his-
tory and culture.
“We’ve had some of our patrons and people on the board that have been to the festivals in Ireland,” Morrissey said.
“They’re giving us some advice, and what they think is authentic.” She said the ICC has a beautiful space with a field
and large patio for this event and that she hopes it will be a beautiful day to say goodbye to winter, filled with good weather and fun times.
West Springfield High School Band and Choir to celebrate milestone
WEST SPRINGFIELD — The West Springfield High School Band and Choir will perform their annual Pops Concert on Friday, May 8, at 7 p.m. in the West Springfield High School gymnasium. This year, the high school band and choir will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Pops Concert in West Side. Always a community favorite, this year’s concert promises to deliver an evening of extraordinary music, celebrating a look back at an enduring music program led by many legendary directors.
Band Director Nathan Holesovsky and Choir Director Amy Taylor will conduct the twoand-a-half-hour program featuring familiar and exciting musical numbers presented by the West Springfield High School Concert Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band and Percussion Ensemble as well as the West Side Choir, West Side Singers and the cast of “Frozen Jr.” Guests will be treated to several surprises commemorating the 75th anniversary and the history of band and choir in West Side.
Doors open at 6 p.m. Gener-
al admission tickets can be purchased at the door and are $7 for adults and $5 for seniors and children under 18.
The WSMPA will be selling
light refreshments, flowers for performers, music merchandise and tickets for a spectacular array of raffle prizes. Funds raised from the event support music
programs in West Springfield Public Schools. Pops 2026 is financed in part by the Mass Cultural Council Creative Experiences Grant.
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Beginning May 18, The REALTOR Association of Pioneer Valley will offer a live in-class 40 hour, 16-class, sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real estate salesperson license exam. The course will be completed on June 24, 2026. Tuition is $425 and includes books and materials.
The course curriculum includes — property rights, ownership, condos, land use, contracts,
deeds, financing, mortgages, real estate brokerage, appraisal, fair housing, consumer protection and Massachusetts license law, and more.
Classes meet on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Association office, 225 Park Ave. Applications are accepted until May 11.
For an application, visit rapv. com or contact Laura at 413-7851328 ext. 5 or laura@rapv.com.
A previous Irish Cultural Center music festival saw around 150-200 attendees. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
Starting pitcher Ella Signet delivers a first inning strike
Shortstop Lillian Rossi receives the throw too late as Ludlow’s Khloe Davis steals second base.
West Side left fielder Megan Flaherty hits the cut-off.
Ava Davis gets a good pitch to hit.
Leila DeJesus fields the ground ball and then tosses to first for the out.
West Springfield’s Jordyn Manning tries to score the runner from third.
Kendall Burque connects with a runner on first.
Teachers ‘very close’ to second chance for enhanced retirement
By Sam Drysdale State House News Service
BOSTON — Veteran teachers
say this could be the year the state fixes a confusing process that cut thousands of educators out of enhanced retirement benefits more than two decades ago.
In 2001, the state introduced a new retirement option for teachers, school nurses and other educators, offering increased benefits for those who complete 30 years of service in exchange for a higher contribution rate. While those hired after July 1, 2001, are automatically enrolled, existing teachers had a six-month window to opt in, during which they say they received limited information. Some say they never received enrollment forms at all.
Now, as educators reach 30 years of service, those who did not opt into Retirement Plus in 2001 must work an additional three to five years to reach their maximum pension compared to colleagues who enrolled.
“I never received a letter. I had just come back from maternity leave, and I only knew because there was talk around the water cooler,” said Brenda Mosetich, a speech pathologist and music therapist with Boston Public Schools since 1997.
She said she called Boston Public Schools’ central offices and “was given misinformation” that she would be enrolled, even though she missed the letter and enrollment period while on leave. She did not learn until 2017 that she was not enrolled for the enhanced benefits.
“It’s just frustrating because it was literally my first child. I was 30 years old. I signed up
for 403(b), and life insurance and all those things. I absolutely would have done that had I been given the correct information,” Mosetich said.
Mosetich was at the State House on April 22 with members of the American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts advocating for a bill (H 2932 / S 1884) that would create a one-time window for teachers hired before July 1, 2001 to opt into Retirement Plus.
Massachusetts teachers enrolled in Retirement Plus receive an enhanced retirement calculation by adding 2% for each full year of credible service beyond 24 years, up to a maximum of 80% of their pension benefit.
Those who opt in contribute 11% of their salary. One source of confusion in 2001 was that the standard contribution rate for public employees not enrolled in Retirement Plus, known as “9+2%,” meaning 9% on total salary and 2% on earnings above $30,000.
Though often lower than the 11% flat rate, teachers said the structure led some to believe they were already contributing enough to qualify.
“I was told, ‘Oh, your paycheck says 9+2? That’s 11. You’re all set. You don’t need to do anything,” Mosetich said.
If the bill passes, about 6,000 active teachers in Massachusetts would get a second chance to enroll after missing the 2001 window, according to AFT President Jessica Tang.
“A lot of people have already missed the opportunity. A lot of people just had to retire if they were ready to retire, without being able to opt in, unfortunately. So that number, over the years, is shrinking,” Tang said.
She added, “I think what’s really heartbreaking too is people were ready to retire, and then they had this rude awakening because they thought they were in the correct retirement system, and it turns out they weren’t. And it was because their pay stub said 9+2%, which equals 11, or it actually said 11%, and they were not actually in it.”
Because these teachers contributed less over time, the bill AFT advocated for Wednesday requires a buyback payment covering the difference in contributions since 2001, plus interest.
“This is not a handout for teachers,” Tang said.
John Loosmann, a physics teacher at Belmont High School, said he was early in his Massachusetts career when the enrollment period opened and chose not to opt in, expecting he might return to New York to teach.
“I’ve had conversations with senators and they balked at first, saying, well, you made your choice. You chose. And it’s almost like they feel like we’re trying to sneak in without paying. We’re all willing to pay. And I would pay all of the money, plus the interest. That’s totally fine,” he said. “Who knows at 27 what they’re going to do for the next 30 years? I didn’t know I was going to be in Massachusetts teaching for 30 years at the time.”
The Boston Teachers Union began pushing for a fix in 2017, and the effort has since gained support from AFT Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Teachers Association and the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents.
Supporters argue the bill could ease pressure on local budgets even as it slightly increases the state’s long-term pension liability.
“Fiscally speaking, I’m an expensive employee. They could hire two teachers for the cost of me. I’ve been there for 32 years, I am expensive. Getting new people on the lower end with fewer years of experience, but good nonetheless, it would cost less money for them to hire them,” Boston Public Schools speech and language pathologist Jeanine Fucile said.
If the bill passes, Fucile could retire with full benefits in two years instead of six.
Districts across the state are facing tight budgets and recent cuts.
“Just in Boston alone, we’re talking about a deficit for this next school year, cutting over 560 positions. So all of those people are looking for jobs right now,” Tang said. “And that’s just one district, and I know that in other districts, it’s in the hundreds as well.”
Tang said a union poll found about 8% of newly eligible teachers would retire this year if given the option.
“If it passes tomorrow, it’s not like there’s a mass exodus out of the district tomorrow. It’s a slow roll over the next, three to probably 10 years of people who are able to leave,” Fucile said.
The bill does not have a direct budget line item, and the only associated increase for the state is in the liability of the pension system, Tang said.
If everyone opted in who was eligible, the Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission estimates that the legislation could increase the liability by approximately $300 million, according to the union. According to PERAC, a $300 million liability would drop the MA Teachers Retirement System’s funded ratio from 60.4% to 60.15%.
“There is a liability cost in the long run. However, in the short term, it really does help the struggling districts that are having this fiscal crisis,” Tang said. She added, “It would really help, particularly, small districts where they’re cutting maybe 40 people. If you’re able to bring back six to eight positions, that’s a really big deal.”
The bill has passed the House three times, and Rep. Alice Peisch has filed it again as a budget amendment to be debated next week.
Though the Senate has not advanced the bill, Tang expressed optimism after a recent meeting with Senate President Karen Spilka.
“We got really into the weeds and the details. And two days later, her staff reached out and asked for some additional details. That is a very good sign,” she said.
Speaking at the union’s lobby day, Sen. Sal DiDomenico said there’s strong support in the Senate.
“I don’t guarantee anything in this world. But I can guarantee that it is very close to getting done,” he said.
Asked where things stand and if the bill would move forward this session, Spilka spokesperson Gray Milkowski said, “Our state would be nothing without our educators. Senate President Spilka is grateful to every educator for their dedication to our young people, and to those who spent part of their school vacation week advocating on Beacon Hill. She is actively reviewing the legislation alongside her colleagues.”
Sam Drysdale is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach her at sdrysdale@statehousenews.com.
HBRAWM supports local Boy Scouts with donation at Home Show
CHICOPEE — The Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Western Massachusetts recently presented a donation to Andrew Dufault of the Boy Scouts of America in recognition of their outstanding volunteer support
during this year’s Original Western MA Home & Garden Show.
Members of the local scouting program played a vital role in ensuring the event ran smoothly for both exhibitors and attendees. From welcoming guests at
the doors to providing support throughout the event their dedication, professionalism, and positive attitude did not go unnoticed.
“As an association, we value community partnerships and the importance of giving back,” said
the daily paper. We hope you find this useful and that you will refer to it weekly.
AGAWAM
Richard H. Eagan Jr.
Veronica Francis
FEEDING HILLS
Melanie A. Maynard
James V. Polmatier Jr.
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Alberic Jean Brisson
Alson Kilbourn Canary Jr.
William J. Heelon
WESTFIELD
Joann M. Bannish (Chr-
zanowski)
Michael J. Cadello
Edward J. Carrington
Thomas “Gunner” Laptew
Winifred L. Peregrin
Marsha Ann Ryan
Andrew Crane, executive director of HBRAWM. “The scouts were an integral part of the Home Show’s success, and we are grateful for their time and effort.”
The donation is intended to support the scouts in their upcoming trip overseas, helping to offset travel expenses and provide them with a unique opportunity for cultural exchange, leadership devel-
opment and personal growth. HBRAWM remains committed to supporting organizations that make a meaningful impact in the community and looks forward to continued collaboration with the scouting program in the future.
For more information about HBRAWM, please visit hbrawm.com
The Best Damn Panini: Krave in East Longmeadow
By Dennis Hackett dhackett@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW —
Having worked exclusively in East Longmeadow over the past year, I have come to appreciate the town’s many lunch stops. I am happy to report that another excellent spot recently opened its doors.
Krave Restaurant, which opened in March, offers a variety of bowls, salads and paninis. Krave offers signature bowls and paninis, like the Orchard bowl, which comes with gorgonzola, candied walnuts, tomatoes, chickpeas and cucumbers, or the Philly panini, which comes with roasted peppers, caramelized onions, sauteed mushrooms, shredded cheese and garlic mayo. Patrons also have the opportunity to make their own bowls or paninis, giving people the opportunity to pick from any of Krave’s ingredients.
In my many trips to Dunkin’ since Krave opened, the delicious smells from the kitchen have caught my nose as I have walked by, making me constantly say to myself “I’ll try it one day.” I am kicking myself because of how long I waited to try something. My first experience with Krave was outstanding.
Walking up to the counter, patrons are immediately greeted with a bevy of options, going station to station, working with staff to add different ingredients to a bowl or a panini. The staff also greets you with a big smile, ready to help you put together your order. If you’re in a rush, Krave also offers online ordering.
To me, barbecue chicken is a go-to sandwich, whether it has grilled or fried chicken and whatever other toppings you want to
toss in there, so when I saw Krave had a BBQ panini, I knew that was my first victim. Topped with a golden barbecue sauce and a chipotle ranch, and filled with bacon, crispy onions and shredded cheese, my mouth was watering looking at the menu. I combined those ingredients with a protein add on of blackened chicken, and it was the perfect combination of savory and sweet with the sweet taste of the golden barbecue and the subtle kick of the chicken.
Staff Writers Sarah Heinonen and Peter Tuohy can attest to the way my jaw dropped when I saw the size of my panini when I opened the container in the newsroom. The box had two huge halves of my panini on a pressed ciabatta bread. The picture included with this review does not do the sandwich justice; it was massive.
Coincidentally we also ended up having food from Krave for a company lunch meeting, where I was able to try a bit more of the menu, while still snagging a corner piece of the BBQ panini. I tried another golden barbecue staple, Krave’s Good as Gold bowl, which in addition to what comes on the BBQ panini, comes with avocado smash, roasted peppers and cucumbers.
The versatility and options to create your own meals stand out the most to me, so while I love their BBQ panini, I am excited to be able to come up with my own concoctions on future visits, whether that is a new panini or bowl.
Just a short distance from our East Longmeadow office, Krave is going to become a staple of my lunch rotation at work, with plenty of more things for me to try.
Krave Restaurant is located at 59 Maple St. in East Longmeadow.
