Vieau looks to keep city affordable; highlights other goals
Heading into his fourth term, Mayor John Vieau shared his goals and upcoming projects for the city of Chicopee in a sitdown with Reminder Publishing Page 4
HOLYOKE
St. Patrick’s Committee preps to name Grand Colleen
With January almost over, the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is gearing up for multiple events ahead of the 73rd St. Patrick’s parade weekend.
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Holyoke receives MassCEC grant to replace aging cables
Holyoke Gas and Electric recently received a $460,000 grant from the HealeyDriscoll administration through the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
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Chicopee swears in acting police chief
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — Deputy Police
Chief Eric Watson was sworn in as acting police chief of the Chicopee Police Department during a ceremony on Jan. 14. The appointment comes after former Police Chief Patrick Major retired earlier this month.
Major dedicated more than 30 years of service to the city of Chicopee. He advanced through the ranks and was appointed police chief in 2022 before officially announcing his retirement last month.
Watson will serve as acting police chief while the city initiates its search for a permanent chief. He brings 27 years of service to the Chicopee Police Department, beginning his career as a police officer in 1999 before he was promoted to deputy police chief in 2023.
In his new role, Watson will continue to lead the department with integrity, honor and dedication to public service, according to the city.
Watson talked about his journey in the Chicopee Police Department and what he learned from Major about leadership.
“I’m honored and humbled by the kind words today about how public safety isn’t about one role or one position, it’s about working together, and over the last few years, I’ve had the opportunity to work together with Chief Major, and I’ve gained a real appreciation for the way that he led the department,” he said.
Watson has completed numerous advanced training programs to support his professional development. Most recently, he participated in executive leadership training through the Police Executive Research Forum and the
Policing Leadership Academy. He also founded the Real Time Crime Information Center, a critical operational resource designed to support officers and investigators during serious incidents and complex investigations. The RTIC integrates multiple lawful
data sources into a centralized system, enabling trained personnel to support public safety decisions quickly, accurately and responsibly, according to the city.
Above, Acting Police Chief Eric Watson stands in front of members of the Chicopee Police Department as well as neighboring departments. At right, Chicopee City Clerk Keith Rattell (right) swears in Deputy Police Chief Eric Watson (left) to serve as the acting police chief of the Chicopee Police Department.
Reminder Publishing photos by Tyler Garnet
See WATSON on page 3
Operations Director: Curtis Panlilio
Executive Editor: Chris Maza
Managing Editors: Dennis Hackett, Ryan Feyre
Staff Writers: Sarah Heinonen, Deb Gardner, Amy Porter, Trent Levakis, Cliff Clark, Tyler Garnet, Peter Tuohy
Graphic Design Manager: Beth Thurber
Graphic Design Department: Leigh Catchepaugh, Lorie Perry, Sophia McClellan, Susan Bartlett, Jim Johnson-Corwin, Molly Arnio
Sales Manager: Scott Greene
Account Executives: Matt Mahaney, Paula Dimauro, Lisa Nolan, Jeanette Grenier, Paul Poutre, Andy Shaw, Laura Tassistro
Classified Account Managers: Roxanne Miller-Longtin, Evan Marcyoniak, Shannon Spada
WEST SPRINGFIELD — The largest railroad-themed trade show in North America will once again stop people in their tracks this winter.
On this week’s episode of “So
That Reminds Me,” hosts Dennis Hackett and Tyler Garnet sat down with John Sacerdote, show manager for the Railroad Hobby Show, to discuss what’s in store for the event, which is slated for Jan. 24 and 25 inside the Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds.
Sponsored by the Amherst Railway Society, the show covers all facets of railroad hobbies, including model railroads, railroad art and photography, railroad history and preservation, tourist railroads, railroad artifacts and railroad books and videos.
The event occupies 350,000 square feet in four buildings on the Big E fairgrounds, and this year’s show will feature visitors from all over the world and 396 exhibitors encompassing trains of all shapes and sizes.
But according to Sacerdote, the show is more than just a “flea market.”
“Every major manufacturer on the planet is at the show; every dealer that has large hob-
by stores, distribution centers; they’re all at the show,” Sacerdote said. “But more importantly, all these historical societies are at the show. All these museums are at the show. All these places where you can still ride trains in the Catskills, up in Maine, all over the United States, down in Rhode Island, are at the show. So, if it’s got something to do with railroads, they’re at the show.”
Although the hobby show already has a rich history, Sacerdote noted that the Railway Society is always trying to outdo itself every year. He highlighted the Sunday morning Brunch Express, which is essentially an Amherst chartered CTrail train ride that leaves from Springfield Union Station at 7 a.m. and arrives at Hartford Union Station shortly after. It is at the Hartford station where passengers will enjoy a buffet breakfast at the station’s Great Hall.
This year’s show will also feature a Women in Model Railroading information session and reception on Jan. 24 at 3 p.m., where people will have the opportunity to meet the women that play key roles in the railroad and model railroad industries. Attached to that will be an operating session from 6-8 p.m.
where women of all ages will learn more about model railroad operations.
Sacerdote also mentioned that there will be multiple activities for children and stated that the society is hoping to surpass last year’s turnout of 27,535 people.
“I’m really trying for 30,000,” Sacerdote said, adding that weather usually dictates the overall turnout. “When we have great weather, we have great crowds.”
Aside from showcasing some of the major facets of the show, Sacerdote also highlighted the decades-long journey that has defined the railroad show from
its humble beginnings at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the mid-1950s to the extravagant celebration it has become today.
Tickets are now available for the show on its website. It is $18 for adults and free for ages 15 and under. Events throughout the two days are held at the Big E’s Better Living Center, Young and Stroh Buildings and the Mallary Complex.
Readers can listen to the full episode by visiting thereminder. com/our-podcast or search “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform.
Oliveira hosts workforce summit with statewide leaders
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Western Massachusetts leaders in education and economic development met with Massachusetts Secretary for Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones for a summit on how to grow the region’s workforce to meet the needs of today and the future.
The meeting, hosted by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts and led by state Sen. Jake Oliveira, identified the need for a robust bridge between education and the workplace, in the form of educational pathways, internships and regis-
tered apprenticeships.
Jones said the roundtable was an opportunity for “candid conversations on how we can advance labor force participation, grow our workforce in this region by tapping into the great talent that studies in our higher ed institutions right here.”
Speaking about the higher education partners at the summit, Oliveira said, “They’re the folks that are training the next generation of workers here in Western Massachusetts, and I wanted to make sure that our higher ed institutions, our workforce development leaders know that they have a partner in the state government — the Executive Office of
Labor and Workforce Development, the Executive Office of Education and the Skills Cabinet.”
The Massachusetts Workforce Skills Cabinet coordinates the work done in the state offices of Education, Labor and Workforce Development, and Housing and Economic Development to create a cohesive agenda.
Bay Path University President Sandra Doran said, “We need to think about our students. That is our only focus, making sure our students are successful. We know that a good internship leads to a better job and career. Students who have internships frequently start at more of a mid-level position than a junior position, at a higher salary, and I don’t think that’s completely understood. Where you start in the marketplace, the workforce, has a direct relationship to where you’re going to end up.”
Oliveira pointed out, “A lot of their students can’t afford to take the time, that might be working full-time jobs already, to do unpaid internships. To find ways that we can get more paid internships here to students in Western Massachusetts with Western Massachusetts employers, I think is another very important piece.”
Jones said registered apprenticeships, which combine paid, on-the-job training with classroom education, are a “proven
model” that has long been used in trades and is becoming more common in other fields. In December 2025, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $1.8 million in grants for registered apprenticeship opportunities in the field of early childhood education. The funding went to eight organizations to train and place more than 300 apprentices.
Holyoke Community College Vice President of Business and Community Services Jeff Hayden said, “HCC has a fairly strong infrastructure in relation to the current employment market, much of it at the entry level.” However, he said some entry level positions do not offer a family-sustaining wage. “What we need to do is to build pathways so that people can not only get a job but get into a career where they can advance. How do we get them more education and more employment for them to get that sustaining wage.”
One example of such a pathway would be to become a licensed practical nurse. He said the program would be designed for people who work in health care fields but not providing direct medical care. The pathway would allow them to further their education and work in the field with the goal of becoming an LPN.
Among the challenges that the
Railroad Hobby Show show manager John Sacerdote (left) joined hosts Dennis Hackett and Tyler Garnet for the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me.” Reminder Publishing photo by Chris Maza
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — WinnCompanies recently announced the completion of a $55.3 million adaptive reuse that transformed a long-vacant, historic mill complex into 88 affordable apartment homes for seniors ages 55 and older.
The downtown Holyoke project created Residences on Appleton, featuring new loftstyle apartments within three interconnected, 111-year-old industrial buildings that had been vacant for decades.
The community reached full occupancy in December, less than three months after it opened.
WinnDevelopmnent President Adam Stein talked about his company’s project in Holyoke, saying, “This effort preserved an iconic feature of Holyoke’s proud industrial legacy, created much-needed housing for seniors who want to stay in the community they love and provided an economic boost to the city’s downtown.” Stein also added that WinnDevelopment will begin work soon on a second phase that
Oliveira
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summit explored was connecting people with what Oliveira called “the changing economy,” and ensures the workforce continues to meet the future employment demand in various sectors, including quantum computing and food science. He said the colleges and universities in Western Massachusetts are positioned to meet those needs.
Jones said that her office takes “a sector-based strategy” and looks to prepare people entering the workforce for the fields where
Watson
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Watson said he plans to support members of the Chicopee Police Department and keep its operations ”steady and consistent.”
Mayor John Vieau expressed his confidence in Watson while the city looks for the next chief of the Police Department.
“I have full confidence in Deputy Chief Watson as he assumes the role of interim police chief,”
will deliver 75 additional apartments in an adjacent part of the complex.
All 88 apartments are reserved for low- and moderate-income seniors, with 12 units reserved for households below 30 percent of Area Median Income, 63 for those below 60% of AMI and 13 for households below 80% of AMI.
Eight of the units are available to eligible households through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Project Based Voucher program. Five units are set aside for Massachusetts Department of Mental Health clients through the Facilities Consolidation Fund.
“The restoration and reuse of the old alpaca mill building is a very encouraging demonstration of what can be accomplished when an ambitious vision is supported by a well-crafted public-private collaboration,”
Mayor Joshua Garcia said of the project. “Residences on Appleton is a testament to our caring and respect for Holyoke’s seniors. The city’s partnership with the WinnCompanies has brought about a model development that will continue to
there are opportunities, such as health care, education and advanced manufacturing in Western Massachusetts. She described it as “building a bridge.”
Jones said it was important in designing a strong network of pathways to “understand what the gaps are in our skills for our current talent as well as our future talent. Linking that to sector strategies and making sure that we are closing that immediate gap that we know employers are looking for today, but also leveraging our workforce infrastructure, our education ecosystem, that we’re preparing our future students for opportunities that we know will also be here down the road.”
Vieau stated. “His experience and leadership will ensure continuity and stability within the department during this transition.”
The city said it is committed to conducting a thorough and equitable search for its next permanent police chief, ensuring transparency and continuity of leadership throughout the process.
Vieau stated that Watson was highly recommended by Major and feels more than comfortable having him serve as active chief for as long as the search and hiring process takes.
position. Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
inspire private entrepreneurs to work with municipal leaders.”
Residences on Appleton offers four studio, 75 one-bedroom and nine two-bedroom apartments. Resident amenity spaces include on-site management offices, a fitness center, a resident lounge, an outdoor recreation area along the adjacent canal, laundry facilities and 109 parking spaces.
A new construction community building that was built as part of the project is connected to the residential space via a closed skybridge spanning nearby railroad tracks.
Designed to meet the sustainability criteria of Enterprise Green Communities, the Residences on Appleton is 100% electric, powered by the Holyoke’s clean hydropower system.
It also features LED lighting, Energy Star appliances, low-flow, water-conserving plumbing fixtures and premium roof insulation. WinnResidential, the property management arm of WinnCompanies, provides day-to-day operations for the community.
Holyoke’s former Office of Planning and Economic Development Director Aaron Vega
Doran said the three principal areas of study at Bay Path University are health care, education and entrepreneurial management.
“Our programs are intentionally aligned with needs of this community,” she said, “That’s our mission, for our students and for the region. We are ready to go. We’ve always been career focused, for 125 years. We’ve got the infrastructure, the programming, we’ve got the personnel. We just need more internships.”
Funding will be critical to creating those internships, Dor-
talked about the significance of partnership with WinnDevelopment in helping achieve Holyoke’s goals.
“Working with WinnDevelopment through this process to bring new housing units and save this historic mill building has been a labor of love. The HRA partnership with Winn is another example of a private public partnership that brings results,” Vega said. “This project is key to our downtown revitalization efforts. Business growth, tourism, public safety and increasing the population of Holyoke are all tied to having quality housing stock available.”
Once the largest alpaca wool mill in the world, the brick mill complex is one of Holyoke’s
an said, adding, “We’re looking to some of our closest friends and donors. We’re looking for grants. We know that the federal government may not be a partner in this.”
Likewise, Oliveira said funding will be key to making pathways work. “Funding is always a challenge, especially when the federal government is pulling away from a lot of grant programs that go to help institutions of higher education, nonprofits and the workforce side,” Oliveira said. While the state cannot fill
most prominent historic properties and is located across the street from a state park dedicated to showcasing Holyoke’s industrial and cultural heritage. The complex has been largely vacant since the 1970s and has been a priority for redevelopment since the city of Holyoke took title to the property 12 years ago.
The adaptive reuse overseen by WinnDevelopment focused on an 86,000-square-foot section of the complex that includes three structures: Building 4, erected in 1880 and the oldest on the site; Building 5, a storage, washing and sorting facility erected in 1905; and Building 6, also built in 1905 and the largest structure on the property.
that funding gap, he said, “What we can do is identify proven programs that have worked in the past and build off of that.” He cited Westfield State University’s internship incentive program, which provides funding that is matched by the university to provide paid internships as one such proven program.
When it comes to funding, Jones said, “I think it’s an opportunity to understand, what do we want to do, how can we do it and how can we be more efficient with the tools that we do have?”
Acting Police Chief Eric Watson talks to the audience and Police Department about his goals while serving the
CHICOPEE
Vieau looks to keep city affordable; highlights other goals
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — Heading into his fourth term, Mayor John Vieau shared his goals and upcoming projects for the city of Chicopee in a sitdown with Reminder Publishing
Although he ran unopposed, Vieau said he still felt like he earned some of the public’s trust. “It’s just a wonderful, great honor to serve as mayor,” Vieau said. “I don’t take that lightly. I’m very passionate about Chicopee.”
Vieau said he plans to strengthen his relationship further with the City Council, School Committee, the state and federal delegation, as well as the Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.
“I know I can’t do this alone,” Vieau stated. “My goal is to work with everyone and really to build better relationships ... and continue to have the great relationships I’ve built over the years.”
Another goal Vieau has, which
he said may be the most difficult, is keeping Chicopee affordable.
“There’s many other factors ... it’s not just about real estate taxes. It’s about electric rates and quality of life and other reasons,” Vieau explained. “There’s always this balance when we’re talking negotiations for contracts or we’re considering new projects, that we have to make sure we live with our means, and that’s something I’m really focused on, keeping Chicopee affordable.”
Vieau also said he wants to continue addressing priorities from previous terms, including public safety measures.
He highlighted the advanced technology, the use of artificial intelligence and the real time information center as key additions to improving the Police Department and safety of the city.
“If you don’t feel comfortable when you put your head down on your pillow at night, you’re not gonna want to live here,” Vieau said. “I think public safety is paramount.”
Vieau said Chicopee plans to make progress on a few key projects this year. Notably, phase 2 of City Hall renovations are moving forward, and Vieau hopes that the renovation of The Hub at Market Square will continue to provide a tangible community presence.
The city is also executing a purchasing sales agreement to buy the former Westfield Bank Loan Center on Exchange Street and relocate the school administration offices to that space.
The current lease at 134 Dulong Circle expires on Aug. 9, “We’re done leasing and looking to acquire and own our own space, and I couldn’t think of a better location right here in downtown Chicopee,” Vieau said.
One of the biggest projects that Vieau highlighted is the buildout of a new elementary school to replace Anna E. Barry Elementary School. Just recently, the Szetela Early Childhood Center site was chosen as the preferred location.
“I’m going to be asking, within the year, the City Council to approve bonding to move into the intimacies of design and acquiring space by eminent domain for access,” Vieau stated, regarding that project.
Chicopee’s first comprehensive plan, Envision Our Chicopee: 2040, is in the first year of implementation, and Vieau said he is excited to see new ordinances adopted based on the plan.
The nearly 70-page document is a shared vision for Chicopee’s future and a roadmap that guides everyone into getting to where they want together. It includes what new development looks like and where it can happen, how the city can protect environmentally sensitive areas and historic sites, prioritize future investments in community services and better support local business development.
Some other upcoming projects and events Vieau is excited about include the Safe Streets for All
grant with the ultimate goal of Vision Zero, a 250th birthday celebration for the United States, and the possibility of advancement at the city’s three mill sites: Cabotville, Uniroyal and Facemate. He also hopes to have a year without any traffic deaths or serious injuries from car accidents.
The city has begun the tax title process for Cabotville, which Vieau called a long, arduous one.
“We don’t want to take property by tax title, so that’s just the beginning of the process. When you’re in arrears two years and don’t pay your taxes or your liens or your fines, that’s what happens,” Vieau said.
He added that he hopes the tax title process encourages the current owner to find a buyer to handle the property or redevelop the property because “it has so much potential and really is a key component to our downtown.”
“Good things are happening,” Vieau said, referring to Chicopee’s outlook this year.
Riley Home Realty highlights community commitment
CHICOPEE — Riley Home Re-
alty proudly recognizes the ongoing commitment to community involvement demonstrated by Kate Riley, vice president, and the company throughout 2025. Giving back is a core value that continually guides how the team shows up for the communities they serve.
Riley has long believed that strong communities are built through active participation, meaningful relationships and consistent service. In 2025, she continued to donate her time and leadership to a wide range of local nonprofit organizations and civic initiatives through volunteering, board service, committee involvement and hands-on support. Her efforts reflect a deep dedication to strengthening the social fabric of Western Massachusetts.
Riley currently serves as a board member for the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, Chicopee Rotary Club and the Boys
and Girls Club of Chicopee. She also lends expertise in additional volunteer advisory roles with those organizations; plus she contributes her time, insight and advocacy to support youth development, economic vitality, and community wellbeing with Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry, United Way and the For The Love Of Good Foundation. Her community involvement also extends to membership and support of many organizations such as YPS of Greater Springfield, The Chicopee Situation Table, National Association of REALTORS®, Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®, REALTOR Association of Pioneer Valley® and BNI Destination Success (former President 2024-2025 and currently Visitor Host Coordinator).
At Riley Home Realty they enjoy being active and will continue to support initiatives that promote connections. This commitment reinforces the compa- ny’s belief that success in real estate is deeply connected to the health and strength of the communities it serves. The team looks forward to continuing its support of many local causes and organizations in the year ahead including sponsoring the Chicopee Police Department’s Police Unity Tour: Team Western Mass,, a powerful ride that honors law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty; as well as hosting the fourth Annual Summer Event, where 100% of money raised goes to benefit Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry. Riley grew up in Western
Massachusetts and has built lasting roots while living by her philosophy that when you work with Riley Home Realty, you feel like family. Riley shared, “I believe my background in insurance and recruiting shaped my people-first approach. Every relationship I make is grounded in listening, understanding and meeting clients where they are.” These same values guide her leadership within the company and her dedication to community service. For more information, please contact Meghan Rothschild at 413-218-4994 or meghan@ chikmedia.us.
Riley Home Realty presents a check to Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry — pictured (left to right): Mike Dugre, Nick Riley, Kate Riley, Aida Gaouette, Kim Caisse, Donna Marratta, board president. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
St. Patrick’s Committee preps to name Grand Colleen
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — With January almost over, the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is gearing up for multiple events ahead of the 73rd St. Patrick’s parade weekend.
Recently, the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke hosted its 70th annual Grand Colleen Pageant on Jan. 3, where fifteen young women competed to become 2026 Holyoke grand colleen finalists.
The five finalists are Page Brady Leahy, Jadyn Christie, Bridie Bowler, Anna Mary Evans and Olivia Rose Royland.
The committee will select the grand colleen at the 70th Coronation Ball and Awards Night on Feb. 14 at the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road.
Also at the Coronation Ball, David “DJ” O’Connor will be honored for his decades of dedication to the parade, the community and his enduring Irish spirit. He was recently selected as the 2026 O’Connell Award recipient.
James Menard, who was selected as the 2026 Gallivan Award recipient for his years of dedication to the parade and the community, will also be honored at the coronation ball.
The Daniel J. Gallivan Award is given annually to a member of the Parade Committee who, while not a resident of the city of Holyoke, has made significant contributions to the success of the parade and committee.
The George E. O’Connell Award is given annually to a long-standing member of the committee who has made significant contributions to the fundraising efforts of the parade and/
or the association.
The Citizenship Award will be formally presented to the Miracle League of Western Massachusetts at the Coronation Ball.
One of the parade’s highest honors, this award is presented annually to an individual or organization that has made substantial contributions to the communities within Western Massachusetts or the parade.
Before the Coronation Ball, the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke hosted a Grand Marshal award dinner and reception on Jan. 16.
In August 2025, the Saint Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke announced that Michael Moriarty was named the 73rd grand marshal for the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade.
The announcement is the community’s highest honor bestowed upon a person of Irish ancestry who has shown extraordinary dedication to their career, family and heritage.
Moriarty said he was “honored profoundly” to be named the grand marshal for the 2026 Holyoke parade.
In an interview with Reminder Publishing, 2024 Parade President and committee spokesperson Hayley Dunn said, “We’ve already got a great list of award winners.”
Dunn also highlighted the committee’s excitement in giving a platform to the Miracle League of Western Massachusetts for all the important work they do in the community.
After the Coronation Ball, the St. Patrick’s Day Committee of Holyoke will ramp up the events with their annual Battle of the Bars fundraiser, a Tartan party for Dobbin, Marshal Mania and the John F. Kennedy Award dinner.
Dunn said the committee is expected to announce its Ambassador award winner and JFK award winner by the end of January.
“We have a lot of fundraising events coming up, and we invite the community to come and, in their own way, help put on the parade by helping to sup-
port these events in different ways,” Dunn said.
The 49th annual St. Patrick’s 10k Road Race will take place on March 21, followed by the 73rd Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on March 22.
For more information on any of the upcoming events or to purchase tickets, readers can visit
holyokestpatricksparade.com.
“We’re excited to bring on some new bands and new entertainment for the 73rd parade,” Dunn said. “We’re excited to showcase the parade this year, and we look forward to seeing them if folks are able to join us along the parade route. If not, the parade is televised.”
Holyoke receives MassCEC grant to replace aging cables
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Holyoke Gas and Electric recently received a $460,000 grant from the HealeyDriscoll administration through the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
The grant is designed to help modernize local electricity infrastructure, support the adoption of clean energy, building electrification and economic growth.
The $460,000 resiliency grant will fund the replacement of approximately 1.5 miles of aging overhead spacer cable along Main Street, between Hanover Street and Jones Ferry Road, according to Holyoke Gas & Electric Marketing and Communications Director Kate Sullivan Craven, who chatted with Reminder Publishing about the project.
She stated that the existing cable, installed in the 1980s, is approaching the end of its useful life and presents increasing reliability risks.
This project will improve ser-
vice reliability for residents and businesses while preparing Holyoke’s infrastructure for increased electrification of buildings and transportation.
“Since the work is funded through this grant, it allows HG&E to make necessary infrastructure upgrades without impacting utility rates,” Craven said.
Holyoke Gas and Electric is one of eight organizations awarded a total of $8 million to strengthen Massachusetts’ electric grid, reduce costly outages and better protect residents in extreme weather.
“We were very pleased and encouraged to receive this grant,” Craven said. “It reflects MassCEC’s confidence in HG&E’s proactive approach to infrastructure investment, resiliency planning and clean energy readiness. This funding allows us to move forward with critical upgrades that will deliver long-term benefits for our customers and the community.”
The commonwealth has been awarded approximately $13.5
million from the U.S. Department of Energy under the formula grant opportunity “Preventing Outages and Enhancing the Resilience of the Electric Grid,” established by Section 40101(d) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Increased electricity demand and more severe weather events pose a challenge to Massachusetts’ grid infrastructure and state energy users, according to the state. This program funds projects to enhance the resilience of the electric grid, prevent outages and mitigate the impact of disruptive events.
In collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, MassCEC developed a program that aims to identify and fund projects that can improve energy reliability and resilience, while reducing the cost and number of outages for communities and underserved populations.
The program also looks to support clean energy and decarbonization solutions, including
building electrification, advance MassCEC and DOER equity, environmental and energy justice priorities and create good-paying jobs with the free and fair choice to join a union.
Craven talked about the construction process to replace the overhead spacer cable on Main Street, saying, “HG&E is committed to minimizing disruption during construction. Customers will receive advance notice, and the work will be carefully coordinated to reduce impacts. This grant-funded project represents a strong investment in Holyoke’s energy future strengthening reliability today while supporting climate resilience.”
In Person on Tuesday, January 27 at 6PM Main Library: 449 Front Street, Chicopee Virtual Drop-in Session on Wednesday, February 4, 9AM-Noon Join Via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86595066482? pwd=phnIJoPJfWPLIdKkHTDASX1PhDEbJr.1
The five Grand Colleen finalists and 2026 Miss Congeniality join a recent St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke event to kick off the season.
Photo credit: St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke
Colby Paul, Elijah Kleps, Gabriel Pluta, Edrin Rivera, and Francis Jordan
Ethan Bargatti goes up against Brody Fay at the basket.
Jacoby Haney takes a quick layup to the basket.
Jack Madsen and The Chicopee Comp boys basketball team beofore their Jan. 12 game with Westfield High.
Comp's Elijah Kleps stops a basket from Westfield's Evan Miller.
Jacoby Haney loops one into the basket.
Selectboard sets Ledges, Buttery Brook Park golf fees for 2026
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
SOUTH HADLEY — The Selectboard approved 2026 rates for Ledges Golf Club and Buttery Brook Park rentals during its Jan. 6 meeting.
Monday through Thursday, residents will see no change to their fees for 18 holes at Ledges. Non-residents can expect a $2 increase if they are walking and a $4 increase if they rent a cart. Any non-resident above 62 years old will see a $2 increase to both methods of playing.
The golf club will add a resident rate for weekends. Non-residents will also see slight increases in the daily fees. Fontaine explained it is about supply and demand, and most prices will only see a marginal increase, if any at all.
Most seven-day season passes and cart plans will see an increase in price, and there will also be a $600 driving range fee for the season.
Ledges Golf Club is currently closed for the season, but the 2026 rates will be available at ledgesgc.com.
Based on a golf operations report provided to the Selectboard, new golf carts, new range mats, two new rough mowers and a large fairway and rough blower were among the operational and course accomplishments in 2025.
Other accomplishments, according to the report, included new paved cart paths, tee sprin-
klers replacements, the replacement of numerous irrigation control wires, a removed rock shelf on the hole 18 fairway and resodded three green’s collar and new drainage on the second hole.
South Hadley’s Human Services Director Andy Rogers and Ledges Golf Club General Manager Mike Fontaine joined the meeting to discuss the 2025 season and their goals for the club for 2026. This August will mark the club’s 25th anniversary.
“The fact that we’ve been able to take the profits and turn them back into the course the last three years or so has been really instrumental,” Rogers said. “All the things that are going on up there are really positive, and I know being a golfer in the area, the conditions and everything there are really well received.”
For 2026, the club hopes to install an automated range ball dispenser, host a weeklong Junior’s Camp in cooperation with the South Hadley Recreation Department, host a member event, host a season opener member’s only event, enhance service with a dedicated greeter in front of the clubhouse on weekend mornings and host a USGA/UMASS/First Green event for industry education and community outreach.
Fontaine, who said he is starting his 21st year with the town in IGM, reflected on the turnaround of the golf course.
“When I first came, the golf course was losing hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. Now,
we proudly can say that the golf course covers operating expenses to the tune of sometimes $250,000-plus a year,” Fontaine said. “Our goal is to even try to improve on that, and we look forward to watching our golf course turn 25 years old this year.”
Rogers stayed at the meeting to also discuss the Buttery Brook Park rental fees for 2026. He explained that the Department of Public Works used to do the bookings for Buttery Brook Park rentals. In 2021, coming out of the coronavirus pandemic and
some restructuring in the DPW, that duty was passed to the Recreation Department.
Rogers said the rates are decided by rental rates from previous years and looking at the rates in neighboring communities.
Rates to rent the pavilion on the weekend will increase by $25; it will be $275 for South Hadley residents and businesses, while non-residents will pay $375.
In an effort to incentivize more rentals, Rogers said there will be a new weekday rate to rent the pavilion. It will cost South Had-
ley residents and businesses $175 and non-residents $275 to rent the space during the week. The rental rates will stay the same for the log cabin; $150 for residents and $200 for non-residents.
Rogers said the back pavilion went through some construction last year and added a new bandshell to the park. Rogers said the department is currently getting quotes and design features for lighting and power to possibly rent the space next to the back pavilion next year.
TheReminder.com
Every week we will provide you with a complete listings of deaths from the preceding week from throughout Greater Springfield. We are doing this as a convenience to our readers in case you miss an obit in the daily paper. We hope you find this useful and that you will refer to it weekly.
Thomas R. Rudzik
CHICOPEE
Robert Alan Bennett
Roland H. Cloutier
Savannah A. Hatch
Robert M. Joyal
Margaret-Anne Martin
Greggory Mitchell
Susan J. Santerre
Helene C. Sears
Joan A. Skypeck
Chester J. Szetela
France E. Talbot
Lorraine D. Taylor
Michael S. Walas
EAST LONGMEADOW
Mary Ellen Goodwin (Lenilko)
William R. Fielding
Rose B. Lupi
Charles Mannheim
HOLYOKE
Elizabeth A. Frisino
Vivian Y. Lagoy
Daniel A. Sudsbury
LONGMEADOW
Lawrence A. Leavitt
Diana J. Srebnick
Nelson Stone
LUDLOW
Anna T. Celona
Julieta “Julie” Hoeckh
Jane Louise Machado
SOUTH HADLEY
William P. Bunnell
Eleanor C. Klepacki
David R. McKenna
Louis C. Rimbold Jr.
Richard J. Ross
Judith VanHandle
SPRINGFIELD
Jeffrey J. Albert
Agnese Basile
Robert E. “Bob” Crane II
Gloria M. Fernandes
Nicolina Ferullo
Ann Heropoulos
Marie T. Kittrell
Jean L. Provost
Dorothy Pulowski
Candice Lynn Stolpinski
Richard Wright Jr. WILBRAHAM
Laurette Bishop Anthony G. Laino
Cynthia Perella
Marion V. Sears
Ledges Golf Club General Manager Mike Fontaine (left) and South Hadley’s Human Services Director Andy Rogers (right) discuss the 2026 Ledges Golf Club rates.
Photo credit: SHCTV15
Provisions Picks: Big Italian reds from Campania
We’re back in the cold weather everyone, and you know what that means: big reds. Big Italian reds to be specific!
I’d like to turn your attention to Campania in Italy. It’s located right on the Mediterannean in the south along the boot’s ankle, and it is one of Italy’s oldest wine regions, dating back to the 1100s B.C. As you may have guessed, this makes for a hot and dry climate with a long growing season perfect for bulking up the wines from their local red variety Aglianico. While Aglianico has remained a popular wine grape for centuries, it actually achieved its greatest acclaim in the days of the Roman empire
when it was used to make the famous wine Falernum. Interestingly, the Romans chose not to use Aglianico’s thick, tannic skins in Falernum winemaking, opting instead to directly press the freshly picked fruit in order to produce a white wine. Today, however, the most acclaimed versions of this grape are mostly red in color, richly ripe, tannic, high in natural acidity due to volcanic soils and full-bodied with a tendency to reveal a great deal of complexity when aged. In fact, top-tier red appellations such as Taurasi produce wines that can happily age for decades, although not all of the wines require it. Don’t be fooled by the
richness and ripeness described here though; Aglianico is more than a simple fruit-bomb. Look out for notes of plum, cocoa, medicinal herbs, leather, pipe tobacco, meat and dark cherry. We’ve loved the wines of Casa di Baal for many years now, and their reds offer an excellent introduction into the region for the curious. The Salerno family own and operate this small vineyard and winery producing a mere 2,000 cases of wine each year with their primary business being in olive orchards and olive oil production. In the early 2000s, the family’s daughters decided that they wanted to stop selling grapes to other local wineries in
UMass Amherst to host the return
AMHERST — When the cast of “The Marriage of Figaro” takes the Bowker Auditorium stage for the first of two performances on Feb. 6, it will mark an important return for the opera community in the Pioneer Valley.
For the first time in nearly a decade, the Five College Opera will be mounting a full stage production, bringing together cast, crew, orchestra and resources from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Smith College, Hampshire College, Amherst College and Mount Holyoke College to present one of the pillars of the operatic canon.
“The Marriage of Figaro’s story and beautiful music have continued to resonate with audiences for more than 200 years since its premiere,” said Jamie-Rose Guarrine, professor of voice and interim associate chair of the UMass Department of Music and Dance. “It’s a universal story of people falling in love, falling out of love and finding each other again, told with wit,
WESTFIELD — Amelia Park
Children’s Museum is asking local residents if they are daring enough to take a dip into the icy, cold waters of Hampton Ponds State Park, Westfield, on Jan. 24. That’s when participants can defy winter and help raise money for the museum. Now in its 21st year, the Penguin Plunge has raised over $370,000 to support Amelia Park Children’s Museum.
Highlights include cash prizes to the top three entities (individual or group) raising the most funds and a costume contest — with prizes.
For those who aren’t going in the water, there’s plenty to do, including roasting a marshmallow by the campfire, enjoying a warm beverage, playing an outdoor game and cheering on the brave participants.
There will be an after-party at Bright Ideas Brewing at 109 Apremont Way, immediately following the Plunge.
warmth and a shared humanity that has stood the test of time. It’s comic and iconic, and the perfect story to experience live, told in the theater.”
Melanie Bacaling, guest stage director for “Le Nozze di Figaro,” has described the design concept as “stylized period, focusing on how the themes of the opera transcend time.”
The performance on Friday, Feb. 6 will start at 7:30 p.m. There will be a second show, on Sunday, Feb. 8, beginning at 3 p.m.
The Five College Opera is a collaborative production in which faculty from across the campuses join together to plan an opera, and students in music and theater from all of the campuses have the opportunity to study and perform. Students learn operatic techniques from experts and perform in a production which is open to the public.
Previously produced every three years, the Five College Opera’s operations were postponed indefinitely when the COVID-19
pandemic hit. Last year, a steering committee was formed with representatives from all five institutions to re-envision the direction of the organization. The result was the decision to return with a show that highlighted the unique talents of an all-student cast.
That cast was auditioned with “Le Nozze di Figaro” in mind, with the added consideration that performers will be able to capitalize on learning these core arias of the opera canon in their future careers, including in upcoming graduate auditions.
At UMass, opera is on the rise, following last spring’s production of “Fairy Tales and Magic”, a collaboration between the vocal and orchestral programs in the Department of Music and Dance. It’s a career pipeline that’s still being built, but Guarrine sees it as on an upward trajectory.
“Opera is just one part of a multi-faceted approach to prepare our students for the career landscape, whether as perform-
order to establish their own wine program and Casa di Baal was born. They are excellent farmers who care tremendously for their land and have been farming the vines organically since 2006 before converting to biodynamic agriculture back in 2014. While this article focuses on their reds, the Salernos also produce some excellent white and sparkling wines that you won’t want to miss either!
• Casa di Baal Rosso di Baal 2022 ($19.99) — 40% Merlot and 40% Aglianico with the remainder made up of Barbera, this was the first wine produced at Casa di Baal, and it serves as an approachable
introduction to the region’s red wines. Rosso di Baal offers notes of red berries, plum, ample spice, and wet earth with lively acidity. Excellent with sharp Italian cheeses like Pecorino, red sauce pasta dishes or pizza.
• Casa di Baal Aglianico di Baal 2019 ($24.99) — Entirely composed of Aglianico and aged in a mix of stainless steel and used French oak barrels, this wine is bold and full-bodied with rich tannins now softened by age. Look for notes of leather, high quality tobacco, and dark fruit with a backbone of minerality. Pair with red meat or truffle dishes.
of Five College Opera
ers, educators, choral, oratorio, or opera singers,” she noted.
“What has been nice about Five College Opera is that it strengthens that area, but it also provides a connective force to the operatic experience by uniting us with the Five College community.”
Guarrine also hopes that this year’s production will provide a scaffolding for the future of the Five College Opera. At a time where budgets are stretched, the production team of “The Marriage of Figaro” is exploring out of the box solutions and documenting best practices of the massive logistical undertaking of mounting an opera, hoping to create a roadmap for future productions.
The Marriage of Figaro is Mozart’s sparkling comedy of love and class, set during a single chaotic day. When Figaro and Susanna’s wedding plans are jeopardized by Count Almaviva’s entitled advances, a whirlwind of disguises and misunderstandings ensues, culminating in a joyous celebration of wit, compassion, and the triumph of love.
Tickets for “Le Nozze di Figaro” (“The Marriage of Figaro”) can be purchased at the Fine Arts Center Box Office (in the lobby of Frederick C. Tillis Hall), by calling 413-545-2511, or by going to UMasstix.org/musicanddance.
Register in advance online, at the museum or in person on the day of the event from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration and pledge forms are available via the museum website at www.ameliaparkmuseum. org or can be picked up at the museum. Online registration closes at 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 23.
The money raised by the plunge goes to providing a safe, welcoming, fun place for children to learn and play. This event is critical to supporting the work of Amelia Park Children’s Museum.
Amelia Park Children’s Museum provides hands-on learning for children ages 1 to 7. Children can learn through play with APCM’s highly interactive exhibits and facilitated programming. The museum offers daily programs in literacy, creative art and STEM. Additionally, APCM hosts field trips with state curriculum-aligned programs as well as birthday parties.
Negotiators begin hashing out CCC, hemp reform approaches
By Katie Castellani State House News Service
BOSTON — The panel tasked with negotiating final details of legislation overhauling cannabis laws expressed confidence in finding common ground between the chambers and acknowledged during its first meeting on Jan. 14 that it is prioritizing equity.
“The Senate bill reflects our shared commitment to a safe and equitable and well-regulated cannabis industry,” said Sen. Adam Gomez of Springfield, the Senate chair of the conference committee. “We share many goals with the House and while there are many differences to work through, I’m confident that this committee can find common ground in a timely manner.”
On Nov. 19, the Senate voted 30-7 to approve its cannabis bill (S 2749). The House passed its version (H 4206) on a 153-0 vote in June. Each chamber appointed three members to serve on a conference committee to hash out final details of the legislation.
Rep. Daniel Donahue of
Worcester, the committee’s House chair, noted the legislation presents a comprehensive plan to restructure the Cannabis Control Commission and “much needed and timely” reforms to the industry’s regulations to support social equity businesses as well as address public health issues that have arisen.
“We’ve created some great use of legislation and are looking forward to reconciling the differences between the House and Senate,” Donahue said.
The House bill overhauls the CCC by reducing the board from five members to three and places all appointing power with the governor, stripping appointing authority from both the treasurer and attorney general. The commission chair would work full time and two commissioners would work part-time. Under the Senate proposal, the CCC would also shrink to three members and both the governor and attorney general could appoint members.
Under both bills, the CCC executive director would be appointed by the chair and serve as
“independent authority over enforcement” and operations of the commission.
Rep. Michael Soter of Bellingham noted the final legislation should focus on improving equity in the industry.
“Those are the things we have to focus on. Folks have invested life savings, invested parents’ life savings, into something they dreamed and hoped for,” Soter, the House Republican on the conference committee, said. “That was something that we focused on and we have to stay focused on as we work out some of our differences moving forward.”
The House bill increases the number of licenses a marijuana retailer can hold from three to six over a three-year period. The Senate legislation would allow retailers to hold four licenses. Priority would be given to social equity businesses and those owned by minorities, women and veterans under both proposals.
Both bills also aim to encourage more investment into cannabis businesses by raising the cap for holders of equity to be consid-
ered owners. The House bill raises the equity ownership in each business to 35% and the Senate proposes an increase of 12%, up from the current cap of 10%.
Sen. Jo Comerford of Northampton also said the conference committee is crucial because it shows lawmakers are responsive to the industry as it evolves, referencing the response to her work around regulating intoxicating hemp products.
“It says that we are iterating, we are learning with the industry, we’re learning about issues like intoxicating hemp and we’re taking action as action is required,” she said. “We’re going to be responsive, because we care about this industry.”
The House legislation creates an oversight structure of the importation, manufacturing and sale of hemp beverages and CBD products. Both products could only be sold if they are registered with the CCC and the agency must develop regulations for registering hemp products, including a prohibition on products with synthetic cannabinoids. Products could only be made with concentrate that complies with federal hemp potency limits.
Hemp drinks could only be sold by retailers licensed by the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission to sell all alcohol and all hemp-based products would need to be registered with the CCC. CBD products could only be sold by entities with a certain consumable CBD product
tax license and have an endorsement from the CCC.
The Senate bill directs the CCC to work with other agencies to study and develop recommendations regarding the regulation of the hemp-derived cannabinoid market.
The House bill requires the CCC to audit all marijuana and medical marijuana businesses to ensure compliance with cap limitations. The CCC must also conduct an economic analysis of the cannabis industry, and the bill allows the agency to limit the numbers of licenses issued.
Both bills remove the current requirement for medical marijuana licensees to simultaneously cultivate, process and dispense marijuana to run their establishment. The Senate bill would recognize patient registrations from other states for medical marijuana prescriptions.
The Senate bill also directs the CCC to conduct a study on the mental health outcomes of cannabis use in Massachusetts.
The legislation from both chambers also raise the amount of marijuana a person can legally possess from one to two ounces.
Gomez did not offer a timeline for when negotiations could conclude when asked by a reporter after the meeting.
Katie Castellani is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach her at kcastellani@statehousenews.com.
Fire marshal warns bars, clubs of sparkler hazard
STOW — State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine on Jan. 6 sent a notice to Massachusetts bars and restaurants regarding the fire hazard posed by sparklers, which are believed to have contributed to the tragic New Year’s Eve fire that claimed dozens of lives in a Switzerland bar.
99 Papers: Barbara Ln., Quinnehtuk Rd., Village Dr., Pioneer Dr., Partial - Maple Rd., Frank Smith Rd., Wolf Swamp Rd. 100 Papers: Norway St., Nevins Ave., Partial - Maple
“Please be advised that sparklers and other pyrotechnic devices, including so-called ‘cold spark’ pyrotechnics, are illegal for possession, sale, and use in Massachusetts without professional licensing, certification and permitting,” Davine wrote in a notice to proprietors of restaurants, nightclubs, bars and discotheques. “This includes small sparklers that have been sold as novelties or party favors to accompany champagne bottles, which are believed to have caused the New Year’s Eve fire that claimed 40 lives and injured more than 100 people in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.”
The marshal thanked the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission, which has provided the notice to local licensing officials for distribution to licensed establishments, and the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, which is distributing the notice to its members.
Separately, the Department of Fire Services issued a notice to a Hialeah, Florida business that markets sparklers online. This business, King of Sparklers LLC,
reportedly sold and shipped sparklers that were later recovered by Fall River Fire Department inspectors at a local establishment.
“The shipment of prohibited fireworks products into the commonwealth constitutes a violation of Massachusetts General Law and the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Code and presents a significant public safety concern,” the notice stated. Davine said that sparklers burn at temperatures of over 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit and cast sparks that can easily ignite furnishings, decorations and other flammable materials. They can remain hot enough to start a fire even after they’ve been extinguished, as happened in 2022, when the unsafe disposal of illegal sparklers caused a three-alarm fire in Dracut that displaced nine people. They are classified as fireworks in Massachusetts and their possession, sale, and use require professional licensing and certification.
“The tragic fire in Switzerland has a chilling similarity to the Station Nightclub fire in Rhode Island, which led to numerous safety reforms in Massachusetts bars and clubs,” Davine said, noting the sprinkler regulations, inspection schedules, and crowd manager requirements that are now in place in Massachusetts.
“We just want to help these businesses keep their patrons and staff safe.”
