FEBRUARY 19, 2026 | FREE
IN THIS EDITION
CHICOPEE
Parade committee prepares to name next colleen
This weekend, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee of Chicopee will name its next colleen to represent the city at the 73rd Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on Sunday, March 22.
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HOLYOKE
City discusses Finance Dept. changes
Mayor Joshua Garcia and others hosted a press conference on Feb. 9 to talk about the newly improved Finance Department and the city’s current fiscal standing.
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SOUTH HADLEY
Town sets Special Town Meeting amid budget problems
The South Hadley Selectboard officially set a Special Town Meeting for Wednesday, Feb. 25.
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Glasheen named next HPS superintendent
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — After interviewing three finalists last week, the Holyoke School Committee selected Assistant Superintendent Jackie Glasheen as the district’s next superintendent during a meeting on Feb. 12.
Glasheen most recently served as the district’s assistant superintendent since June 2025, but she has served in multiple roles in Holyoke Public Schools since 1992. She was a substitute teacher, special education teacher, assistant principal, school supervisor and principal. Glasheen also graduated from Holyoke High School.
“The Holyoke Public Schools are in a pivotal moment,” Glasheen stated in her interview.
“Leaving state receivership and embarking on a journey back to local control, which we haven’t had in 10 years. There are moments in a district where we need a new set of eyes, and we need someone to look at the puzzle. I feel strongly that at this moment in the Holyoke public schools, we need somebody, a strong leader with institutional and community knowledge in order to leverage all the resources needed to support our students, and I feel at this time the Holyoke Public Schools needs Jackie Glasheen.”
With that decision made, contract negotiations will commence until salary is finalized. It is anticipated that Glasheen will assume the role of superinten-
dent effective July 1.
This July will mark the first time in more than a decade that HPS will be led by a superintendent who was selected by the Holyoke School Committee following an intensive search and interview process.
The other two finalists were Carmen Melendez Quintero, executive director of inclusive education at Boston City Schools,
and Annie Azarloza, interim superintendent of schools at Northumberland, Stratford and Stark Schools in New Hampshire. Each finalist was interviewed on three consecutive nights from Feb. 10-12.
“We had three excellent candidates,” said School Committee Chair Dr. Yadilette Rivera-Colón, noting that Glasheen
“will hit the ground running. She knows the district. She knows where we are strong and where we are not doing well. She knows where we need to focus so we can continue to improve.”
In her new role, Glasheen said she would like to ensure high-quality instruction in every single classroom and make sure teachers and students have what
Holyoke Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Jackie Glasheen being interviewed for the vacant superintendent role before eventually being selected.
Photo credit: Holyoke Media
See GLASHEEN on page 2
STRM: Whitfield talks tenure as City Council president
By Dennis Hackett dhackett@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — On the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me,” hosts Ryan Feyre and Tyler Garnet sat down with Springfield City Council President Tracye Whitfield to talk about her tenure as City Council president. Whitfield discussed what a City Council president does, which includes presiding over the meetings, coming up with the agenda for the meetings and deciding subcommittee assignments for the city councilors. She also said that there are new challenges as the president.
“I’m still learning the role and it’s interesting, I get a lot more calls, a lot more invites to events — I do try to attend as many as I can, but I also work with the other city councilors and try to get them the same exposure, I like to share everything, but it’s definitely challenging,” Whitfield said. She also discussed a recent conflict of interest violation from the Feb. 2 council meeting after she did not recuse from presiding over a public hearing involving a property on Wallace Street her son Jelani Bland had requested be discontinued. His company, which Whitfield is a part of, is interested in building on the land on the abutting property. For fuller coverage of this issue, head to thereminder.com or pick up the Feb. 19 edition of the Springfield Reminder.
Alongside the violation, Whitfield explained that one of the things she is doing as council president is creating a training framework to help new councilors.
“I was really interested in doing that because when I joined the council in 2018, there was like literally no training. You just sit down, you take conflict of interest training on your own; no one to explain anything, there’s just like no training at all, and I want to be a different presi-
dent,” she said.
Whitfield also said that she is planning on holding office hours as well.
“I just want the public to know that I am here and I’m obtainable, I am available and I hope that the community takes advantage of that,” she said.
She also discussed what it meant to her to be the first woman of color to be the Springfield City Council president and said that she never thought about being in politics when she was growing up.
“I mean it means everything to me, because now I am a role model. So even when I make mistakes, I have to own them and take accountability for the things that I do, and I’m always gonna do that because no one knows everything,” she said. “Just being a role model to other young people so they know that your path might take you in different directions then you planned, but everything you learn along the way is helping to build your skillset to go in different paths than you initially planned.”
Whitfield also reflected on how long it took for a woman of color to be the president of the council.
“It just means a great deal to just show, especially young girls, that they can be anything they want to be, because this is 250 years in the making. I hope breaking this barrier it’ll open other doors where a woman of color hasn’t been in a position,” she said.
Looking at the makeup of the council she is presiding over, she said it’s a good balance of people.
“I think there is a good balance on the council as far as race and ethnicity — well, we could use a couple more females — but we’re getting there, even the age differences within the council, I think it’s a good balance,” she said.
Whitfield said another area she wants to improve on is creat-
ing more “robust” small business support in the city.
“We have a lot of people leaving because there’s not a lot of resources for small businesses. I also run a statewide coalition, and so when I go throughout the state, I see other initiatives that I’m like ‘oh, we can do that in Springfield,’ but it’s not as easy to implement change in Springfield, so I think that is very much needed,” she said. “We have to get small business technical assistance going for our small businesses to make sure that they have their back-office supports services together, like their accounting, marketing, business plan, their legal, all that in place, so when it’s time to get loans and grants and things like that, they’re ready.”
One area Whitfield said Springfield could use some improvement in is with educating residents about clean energy practices.
“I do think we still have a lot more work to do as far as educating our residents on conversions, like maybe to fuel pumps and other clean energy types … the rebates and what it means to have a clean environment,” she said. “We have work to do, but I still think that it can be done.”
Whitfield added that she was looking at getting a fuel pump because she currently uses oil.
During the sit-down, Whitfield talked about challenges with creating affordable housing, working on the city’s budget, economic development and much more.
Glasheen
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they need to thrive. She also said she wants to help build a culture of belonging where the Holyoke community, schools, staff and students feel united, valued and inspired.
“We have a lot of repair work to do,” she stated. “I feel deeply responsible to lead the Holyoke Public Schools, especially at this moment in time. I’m committed to this community, I was born and raised in this community, I’ve spent my career supporting students and families in this community.”
During the 10 years of receivership, HPS had three receivers, including Soto, who took on the role of interim superintendent in July when local governance was restored. Soto chose not to apply for the permanent superintendent position when it was posted in December 2025. He plans to remain at Holyoke Public Schools as chief of finance and operations.
With Holyoke Public Schools serving a predominantly diverse community, Glasheen shared how her experiences working with students and families facing systemic barriers shaped her leadership.
Whitfield added that she wanted to change the narrative around the city.
“We have a lot of great assets, we are the City of Firsts. [I] just want to change the narrative to a more positive narrative than what some of the surrounding communities may hear, think or speak, because it’s just really not true. Usually people that are involved in the violence live that life, it’s not happening randomly,” she said. “I just want to change the narrative on how people think and talk about Springfield, as well.”
To hear the full episode, visit thereminder.com/our-podcast or search “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform.
“What I learned as a leader is you have to meet families where they are, and every family is in a different spot,” Glasheen said. She highlighted a time when she was at Kelly Elementary School, and students were struggling with their literacy.
Glasheen explained that she had a Kelly School mom host a “home literacy party” and invite 10 other Kelly School moms.
“We asked you to host, and if you said yes, we said great, Invite 10 of you mom friends who have children at Kelly School who might be struggling with literacy. I’m going to bring dinner. We’re going to come to your house, and we’re going to talk ... and take activities that you can do at home that will support the work that we’re doing at school.”
Glasheen said with the teachers’ help, the initiative took off. She said kids’ reading levels who participated in the literacy parties improved.
Glasheen concluded her interview by sharing her entry plan with the School Committee, which included her thoughts and goals for the first six months. She also welcomed feedback from the School Committee.
“I want you to know that I am committed; that this is my life’s work, and this is what Holyoke needs right now,” she concluded.
Springfield City Council President Tracye Whitfield (center) sits down with “So That Reminds Me” hosts Ryan Feyre and Tyler Garnet.
Reminder Publishing photo by Chris Maza
Higher ed. board clears way for three-year degrees
By Katie Castellani State House News Service
BOSTON — The Board of Higher Education has opened the door for colleges and universities across Massachusetts to offer three-year bachelor’s degrees, a move aimed at boosting access to higher degrees while some have raised concerns it could diminish education quality.
The board voted on Feb. 10 to approve a regulation allowing higher education institutions to submit pilot proposals for degree programs that differ from current criteria, like the 120-credit requirement. The regulation doesn’t provide specific criteria for programs, but says a pilot should be “responsive to significant changes in society, demographics, technology, educational research or expectations regarding post-secondary education.”
The regulation, which has been in the works for a year and a half, comes as universities across the country are increasingly offering three-year and sub-120
credit bachelor’s programs — often shifting them to 90 credit hours. Board chair Chris Gabrieli noted that there are other possible program structures that may be contentious.
“I do expect there to be some controversy under some of these proposals, maybe all of them, because they all represent innovation and sometimes real boundary changing and that could be uncomfortable,” Gabrieli said. “I think our general view on innovation should be to neither assume all innovations are good ideas, nor to prevent campus driven ideas — if they’re high quality — from proceeding.”
The regulation aims to offer students a faster, more affordable path to a degree. However, some educators have raised concerns over how curriculum cuts and accelerated programs could reduce the quality of students’ education and leave them ill-prepared to enter the workforce.
“We may think that we have reduced their financial burden by taking out 30 credits, but in reali-
ty, we will have diminished their learning experience and narrowed their path to success overall,” Aruna Krishnamurthy, an English studies professor at Fitchburg State University, said during the meeting. “With the 90-credit degree, the state is sending a signal to our hardworking families and our first-generation students they are not worthy of an education that expands the possibilities of their consciousness.”
Max Page, president of the Massachusetts Teacher’s Association, noted that conversations on K-12 education have focused on deepening student’s learning and the new regulation would limit opportunities to do so at the college level. Also, if the aim is to boost affordability, the board should tailor regulations more closely to that goal, he said.
“Let’s not use the front of affordability to pursue a weakening of this degree,” Page said.
Vice Chair Harneen Chernow, one of two board members who voted against the regulation, raised concerns that the regula-
tion could create a two-tiered system where students — often from wealthier families — attending more selective and prestigious schools would be more likely to go through standard four-year programs than their counterparts at state or community colleges.
Harneen said that some colleges like the University of Massachusetts Amherst have indicated that they are not interested in offering accelerated degree programs while others, particularly community colleges, are open to the idea.
In 2024, the New England Commission of Higher Education, an institutional accreditor for most of the private and public colleges in New England, gave Merrimack College in North Andover a green light to pilot a three-year program focused on non-licensure majors, like business, health science, physics and liberal arts degrees.
Last fall, Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island became the first in the country to launch an in-person, three-year
bachelor’s degree. Students are only required to complete 90 to 96 credit hours, and take a regular semester load of courses during the academic year. The university is only offering the accelerated degree program in computer science, criminal justice, graphic design and hospitality management. Interest in faster and more affordable higher degrees extends beyond New England. In 2024, former Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb signed a law requiring every state college and university to review their bachelor’s degree programs to determine if they could be completed in three years by a full-time student. If or when schools submit applications to pilot three-year degrees, those ideas will be subject to approval of the Board of Higher Education.
Katie Castellani is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach her at kcastellani@statehousenews.com.
Energy, immigration bills on House’s near-term radar
By Colin A. Young State House News Service
BOSTON — The House would like to take up the energy affordability legislation it has been discussing for months before diving into fiscal year 2027 in late April, House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz said on Feb. 11. State representatives met with leadership last month to discuss a legislative response to the high energy costs that burden many Massachusetts households and businesses. Energy affordability has also been a central component of Gov. Maura Healey’s reelection year agenda, and the campaigns of those looking to unseat hear.
Among the proposals the House could be considering is the energy affordability proposal Healey filed in May.
“We thought those meetings we had with the membership was very healthy. There was a lot of varying of opinions in relation to how to proceed. So, I think we’re trying to build a bill that we can produce in front of the House that, you know, is as reflective of the membership’s overall sense of what we need to do,” Michlewitz told reporters Wednesday. “But I think the urgency of doing something is still very prevalent, and something that we’re very laser-focused to try to get it done. Obviously, we’d like to get something done before the budget, because obvi-
ously I’ve got a lot of work to do with the budget. So, I think we would, we’d like to do this as quickly as possible. But we want to try to get it right, as opposed to just getting it done quickly.”
The North End Democrat reaffirmed that changes to the state’s 2030 emissions reduction mandates are “off the table” in any near-term energy affordability legislation. Environmental advocates in the fall slammed a House bill drafted by Telecommunications, Energy and Utilities Committee members for proposed rollbacks to the state’s emissions reduction laws.
“But everything else is still on the table in terms of this conversation right now, because we’ve got to continue to balance
our needs of trying to produce something that creates a little bit more affordable component for our constituents but also sticks to a lot of the principles that we’ve had over the years in relation to climate and in relation to producing better energy sources,” he said.
Michlewitz also said he thinks the House would like to tackle immigration legislation before the budget as well, though he was less confident that would come to pass. Last week, the House held private meetings for members to discuss the recently-filed PROTECT Act (HD 5608), a bill crafted by the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus aiming to protect Massachusetts from
some types of immigration law enforcement.
“I hope so, but there’s some complexities related to it so I’m not 100% sure. Again, that’s another one that some members of leadership are working through right now and hopefully they can do something soon,” he said when asked if the goal was to get that bill done before the budget as well. “This is a complex issue, obviously. We’re in complex times related to that, that particular issue on immigration. So, you know, we got some work to do.”
Colin Young is the deputy editor for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach him at colin. young@statehousenews.com.
CHICOPEE
Parade committee prepares to name next colleen
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — This weekend, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee of Chicopee will name its next colleen to represent the city at the 73rd Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on Sunday, March 22. Twelve contestants submitted applications for the 2026 Chicopee Colleen Contest. They were recently welcomed at an Irish Tea where they learned about Irish culture and customs, as well as the competition process.
At press time, the contestants include Mackenzie Bergstrom, Jaydda Reyes, Charlotte Fields, Beatrice Brown, Gracie Houldson, Isabel Carpenter, Gracelyn Jarry, Mila Dillard, Shannon Caloon, McKenzie Araujo, Zoey Piedra and Jahzara Bradley.
The colleen and court will be selected at the Coronation Ball on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Portuguese American Club on 149 Exchange St. Contestants are required to go to the Irish Tea, both rehearsal dates, and the Coronation Ball before a colleen is officially named.
An Irish tea, or “Get Acquainted Social,” was hosted on Feb. 8 at the Chicopee Portuguese American for all contestants. The first mandatory rehearsal and a parents’ information session took place on Feb. 16.
Contestant interviews will occur on Thursday, Feb. 19 at 4 p.m. A second mandatory rehearsal will be held on Friday, Feb. 20.
These events will lead up to the Coronation Ball on Feb. 21.
The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee of Chicopee noted that if you are selected to be on the court, it is a yearround committee, and you will be expected to attend multiple events throughout the year.
Alivia Mendes, one of the newer members of the Chicopee St. Patrick’s Day Committee who helps with the colleen and court, talked with Reminder Publishing about the upcoming event.
“Personally, I am super excited about the Coronation Ball,” Mendes stated. “It is by far one of my favorite events of the year. I love seeing all the families come out to support the girls and witnessing the pure joy on their faces.”
Mendes herself was a member of the Colleen Court in 2022. Because she has gone through the entire process, she offers a unique perspective as both a candidate and a mentor.
“The experience offers so many benefits, from building
confidence and public speaking skills, to forming lasting friendships and becoming more involved in the community,” she said. “My advice to anyone running is to just be yourself. Don’t let the nerves get to you, have fun and make the most of the experience.”
Mendes wished each contestant the best of luck, stating, “I feel like we have a really great group of girls this year. It’s a versatile group, and each candidate brings something unique and special.”
With the 73rd Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade set to take place on Sunday, March 22, the countdown is on for each participating community committee to host events relating to green season. Mendes shared her excitement for the time of year. “Kicking off the season with our first few events is always exciting,” she said. “It’s definitely a busy time for us, but it’s also a time we truly miss when it’s over.”
Valley Opportunity Council seeking senior volunteers
CHICOPEE — Valley Opportunity Council’s Senior Companion Program is seeking new volunteers to serve in Chicopee, Holyoke, and surrounding cities as the program plans for ex-
pansion. For those interested in learning more about the program and volunteering, an Open House will be held on Monday, Feb. 23, from 2-4 p.m, 516 Chicopee St., Chicopee, featuring refreshments
and information. Current SCP volunteers will also be present to answer questions.
The Senior Companion Program has secured funding through AmeriCorps Seniors to
help local seniors stay connected, independent, and engaged in their communities, and allow for opportunities for expansion to surrounding communities outside of Chicopee and Holyoke.
The SCP pairs volunteers ages 55-plus with older adults who need companionship. Senior Companion Volunteers provide social connection and friendly visiting; offer transportation and help with errands such as grocery shopping or medical appointments; and deliver caregiver respite, giving family members a needed break. Each volunteer experience is unique, based on a carefully created oneon-one match.
Individuals who are interested in volunteering should contact Andrea Holden, director of the Senior Companion Program, at AHolden@valleyopp.com or 413-612-0229.
Senior Companion Volunteers serve a minimum of five hours per week, and income-eligible volunteers receive a tax-
free stipend ($4/hour), mileage reimbursement, training, insurance and appreciation events. Senior Companions can earn $350-plus per month without decreasing any assistance. You will make friends and help others in Hampden County.
According to Holden, “Senior Companions make an incredible difference in people’s lives — and in their own. These supports help older adults live independently, reduce loneliness, and strengthen ties within the community. With new initiatives rolling out, it’s the perfect time for older adults to join the SCP Volunteer team.”
In addition to volunteers, VOC is seeking new partnerships with other nonprofit organizations or municipal agencies that support seniors in living independently. Organizations in Hampden County interested in learning more about VOC’s Senior Companion Program should contact Holden, AHolden@valleyopp.com or 413-612-0229.
Tabletop Saturday at Wistariahurst Museum
HOLYOKE — Join Wistariahurst Museum for a tabletop gaming event for players of all kinds. Bring your favorite games from home or jump into one of the tabletop games that they will have available for guests to enjoy. Whether you’re into Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, classic board games or something new, there’s a set for you at their tables. Bring your friends for a gaming session, or play, learn and connect all at your own pace. Want guidance in learning a new game? A staff member will be present to host a featured “game of the month.” For Feb-
ruary, guests can learn about Villainous by Ravensburger. Select your favorite Disney villain and compete with others in a game of strategy, schemes and mischief. Entry to Tabletop Saturday is donation-based, starting at just $1 per person. Every additional amount that guests donate supports the museum’s programming. Registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Come inside and roll the dice with us at Wistariahurst Museum on February 21 from 12-4 p.m.
Visit: eventbrite. com/e/1982461297106?aff=oddtdtcreator to register.
Back Row, Left to Right: Mackenzie Bergstrom, Jaydda Reyes, Charlotte Fields, Beatrice Brown, Gracie Houldson. Front Row, Left to Right: Isabel Carpenter, Gracelyn Jarry, Mila Dillard, Shannon Caloon, McKenzie Araujo, Zoey Piedra. Missing from photo: Jahzara Bradley
Photo credit: Joel Rodowicz
DiZoglio files audit law complaint with state’s high court
By Sam Drysdale State House News Service
BOSTON — Auditor Diana DiZoglio sued top legislative leaders on Feb. 10, asking the Supreme Judicial Court to force compliance with the 2024 voter law authorizing audits of the Legislature.
That lawsuit, filed by DiZoglio with her office’s general counsel, Michael Leung-Tat, represents the first direct court action by the auditor to enforce Question 1. The law was approved by 72% of voters and granted her the authority to audit the Legislature, where DiZoglio previously served as a state representative and senator.
In the more than a year since the law took effect, legislative leaders have continued to refuse to turn over any documents, and DiZoglio hopes to force a constitutional clash before the state’s highest court.
In a verified complaint dated Feb. 10, DiZoglio wrote that she seeks “to enforce provisions of the state law — enacted over one year ago with the support of more than 72% of Massachusetts voters — requiring her office to audit the General Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.” The complaint names House Speaker Ronald Mariano, Senate President Karen Spilka, House Clerk Timothy Carroll and Senate Clerk Michael Hurley as defendants.
The filing marks an escalation in a long dispute. The Legislature first blocked a proposed audit in 2023, arguing that existing law did not permit the auditor to examine the legislative branch. Voters amended the audit statute to state that the auditor shall “audit … the general court itself” and may “require the production of books, documents, vouchers and other records relating to any matter within the scope of an audit.”
According to the complaint, DiZoglio moved quickly after the law took effect. On Jan. 3, 2025, she notified Mariano and Spilka that her office would conduct a performance audit of the House, Senate and joint legislative committees. Three days later, the Office of the State Auditor requested budgets, audits, balance forward transactions and records of settlement agreements for fiscal years 2021 through 2024.
“Defendants have refused to produce any documents,” the complaint states.
The auditor says she sought to audit “contracting and procurement procedures, the use of taxpayer-funded nondisclosure agreements and its balance for-
ward line item,” describing those areas as high risk. The lawsuit alleges that neither chamber responded substantively to the document requests, with the Senate instead directing auditors to public websites that did not contain the requested information.
The filing also details months of back-and-forth between the auditor and the Attorney General’s Office, which traditionally represents state agencies in litigation. DiZoglio says she repeatedly asked Attorney General Andrea Campbell to bring suit on her behalf to compel compliance, beginning on Jan. 9, 2025.
“The OSA repeatedly sought the help of the AGO in enforcing the Document Requests,” the complaint states. It alleges that the attorney general’s office “declined to do so,” instead posing questions that had already been answered and raising hypothetical concerns about future audits.
The complaint accuses the attorney general’s office of “effectively obstruct[ing] the OSA’s efforts to enforce the Document Requests through litigation” and concludes that by declining to represent the auditor or appoint a special assistant attorney general, the office “has acted arbitrarily and capriciously, or scandalously.”
Campbell has consistently rejected that characterization, maintaining that her office has not received sufficient information from the auditor about the scope of the proposed audit and the legal claims involved to proceed with litigation.
Two weeks ago, Campbell told the News Service, “We’ve not had any issue on any ballot question enforcement or any state agency or constitutional office. The only one we’ve had issues with was the auditor, and I think that’s telling in many ways.”
The relief DiZoglio is seeking from the SJC is straightforward but consequential: an order compelling the House and Senate to produce the requested documents and permission for the auditor to appoint special assistant attorneys general of her choosing to pursue the matter.
The lawsuit lands as the dispute has widened beyond the Legislature. In recent months, courts have cited a 2023 attorney general opinion to decline participation in certain audits sought by the auditor’s office, prompting DiZoglio to warn publicly of a broader retreat from transparency tied to the legislative impasse.
Legislative leaders, for their part, have continued to argue that a legislative audit by the state
auditor would violate separation of powers principles, despite the voter-approved statutory change. They have pointed to annual audits conducted by private firms and have accused DiZoglio of pursuing a “political audit.”
Republican U.S. Senate candidate John Deaton on Feb. 9 sought to force legislative compliance with Question 1 through a separate legal theory. Deaton, an attorney, filed suit with the Supreme Judicial Court alongside a group of “taxable inhabitant plaintiffs,” arguing that the Legislature’s refusal to submit to an audit amounts to unlawful spending of public funds.
Deaton paired the lawsuit with
a call for what he dubbed a “Democratic Accountability & Transparency (DAT) Squeeze,” urging federal officials to freeze certain discretionary federal grants to Massachusetts until the audit dispute is resolved. In a statement announcing the suit, Deaton said the audit is necessary to ensure “taxpayer dollars actually reach the people who need them most.” In a lengthy post on X, Deaton said he had written to federal agencies including the Office of Management and Budget and the U.S. Department of Transportation seeking a pause on “non-essential, non-emergency discretionary Federal funding,” while carving out protections for pro-
grams like SNAP, Medicaid and emergency services.
The Deaton lawsuit adds another layer to a conflict that has already pitted constitutional officers against one another and drawn in outside political actors. Unlike DiZoglio’s case, which is rooted directly in the amended audit statute and seeks enforcement through the SJC, Deaton’s suit blends state-law claims with pressure aimed at the federal level.
Sam Drysdale is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach her at sdrysdale@statehousenews.com.
City discusses Finance Dept. changes; provides fiscal updates
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Following the recent approval by the City Council to improve the city’s Finance Department, Mayor Joshua Garcia and others hosted a press conference on Feb. 9 to talk about the newly improved department and the city’s current fiscal standing.
After months of discussions, the City Council approved provisions to the city’s Municipal Finance Modernization Act during its Feb. 3 meeting with an 11-2 vote in favor of the changes.
Garcia talked about the “historic” moment for the city and the steps that are underway to achieve “good governance.”
“This landmark legislation represents a major step forward on how we handle our city finances,” Garcia stated. “The act specifically modernizes our financial operations by centralizing key functions under a new department of finance.”
At the top of the Finance Department will be the mayor, just like any other department in the city. Underneath the mayor in the organization chart is the chief administrative and financial officer, a role that the state has urged Holyoke to create for nearly 20 years, according to Garcia.
The CAFO position has officially been posted, according to Garcia, who said the position is for “any person looking for a challenge and new opportunity.”
The act will also consolidate the treasurer and collector position to one, and introduce a comptroller and financial analysts to the department.
Rory Casey has been appointed by Garcia as the city’s interim treasurer until a new one is appointed.
The city is also looking to fill its auditor position. Casey explained that before the comptroller and other positions can be posted, “Certain things have to fall into place.”
He said a major domino fell into place when the treasurer role changed from an elected position to an appointed position. “That happened about a year ago; the act passed last week, so now we can start putting all those other things into action,” Casey stated. “There will be positions that are
going to be open, there are positions that don’t currently exist where we have to talk to some collective bargaining units in order to make sure everyone is on the same page.”
Garcia said that although the public does not have direct involvement in the appointment of the new CAFO, he said he will host open public interviews.
City Councilor and Ordinance Committee Chair Meg MagrathSmith said there is a structure in the ordinance itself that outlines the hiring process for the CAFO and includes the creation of a committee made up of city employees to discuss candidates. The mayor and City Council will eventually determine recommendations for interviews.
The residency requirement ordinance has been dropped for all the city’s financial officer positions. Magrath-Smith explained, “We wanted to make sure that we are widening the pool as much as
possible so that we can get the highest, qualified candidates.”
Garcia also said the new act will also consolidate scattered responsibilities, strengthen internal controls, reduce liabilities and align the city’s practices with longstanding recommendations from the state’s division of local services.
According to Garcia, the provisions are “nearly” budget neutral, saving the city approximately $100,000.
Looking ahead, Garcia said, “These changes mean better stewardship of taxpayer dollars, stronger safeguards against errors of efficiency and greater confidence from state partners and rating agencies. These changes strengthen accountability and offer better oversight balance between the executive and the legislative branches of our government, ensuring accountability of each other. Together, these efforts address issues that have
challenged our city for years and will position us for long-term fiscal health even well beyond us who are elected today.”
Last year, Holyoke faced challenges with cash reconciliation due to a lack of proper financial documentation. The state halted local aid payments because Holyoke had not completed cash reconciliations from fiscal year 2023 to the current fiscal year. The delay led to concerns about the city’s financial records and the ability to certify free cash, which is crucial for setting future tax rates.
Casey, who shared his excitement for the changes in the Finance Department, also gave an update on the city’s current financial status. CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP was recently appointed by the state to assist with cash reconciliation services.
The FY23 audit is complete, and the FY24 audit is underway. Casey said they expect the FY25
audit to wrap up before the end of the fiscal year as well. He stated, “This is going to get us back on track, which is the most important thing, so that whoever comes and is the treasurer/collector is not left with the same mess that I inherited and the same mess that previous treasurers have also inherited.”
Casey also said they since the vote from the City Council took place, he and the finance team met internally to develop plans that will help cross-train current and future staff.
Garcia ended the press conference by officially signing the Municipal Finance Modernization Act into law.
Magrath-Smith explained that since the act is an ordinance change, the Charter and Rules Committee will discuss what charter changes need to occur to make it a reality. The ordinance will then go through the home rule petition process.
Mayor Joshua Garcia talks about the changes that Holyoke is making to its Finance Department after an ordinance approval by the Holyoke City Council.
Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
Holyoke paraprofessionals seek new contract
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Members of the Holyoke Paraprofessionals Association joined the School Committee meeting on Feb. 9 to express a desire for a new contract.
HPA President Elizabeth Montagna sent the organization’s demands in a bargaining letter to interim Superintendent Anthony Soto, Chief of Human Resources Beth Gage and the district in December 2025.
Montagna said the letter is the first step the association must take to begin bargaining for a new contract before its current one expires at the end of June.
As of the School Committee meeting, Montagna said the HPA had yet to hear any dates for bargaining and had not heard back from the district until the first week of February, when an MTA representative reached out directly.
“While we are disappointed to not have received a written reply in almost a month and a half, we are ready to move forward in our efforts to gain a fair and equitable contract,” Montagna stated. “We are asking you as the School Committee to prioritize finalizing your bargaining team and start negotiations with us as soon as possible.”
The contract proposals are based on several rounds of meetings and conversations with every single paraprofessional in the district, according to Montagna.
The HPA also presented the School Committee with a card signed by 90% of the union declaring agreement with their platform.
“We would be happy to share our platform with you to show how united our members are,” Montagna said. “Many of our members rearranged their busy schedules, including second jobs, to be here today. As the card says, it is time to show some paras some love.”
Multiple paraprofessionals expressed their concerns, including a better wage that reflects their experiences, education and
difference in their job responsibilities. They also looked for job-appropriate training so they can effectively support the diverse needs of their students.
Paraprofessional Falecia Bagg shared that she began her journey with Holyoke Public Schools in 2021 as an instructional paraprofessional. Her administrator encouraged her to pursue teaching,
SPRINGFIELD — A few cents at the register turned into a powerful show of community support as Rocky’s Ace Hardware customers once again stepped up for children’s health. This year’s Round Up for Kids campaign raised $113,930 across Rocky’s locations, directing critical funding to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals serving the communities where customers live and shop. The fundraiser ran during two high-traffic periods, one in the spring and another during the late fall and holiday season, giving customers multiple opportunities to round their purchase totals up to the nearest dollar. Those small contributions added up quickly, with Baystate Children’s Hospital receiving more than $23,925 from participating Rocky’s stores
and she soon became a second grade teacher. “I am grateful for the pipelines the district provides for paras who want to become teachers, however, it has not been easy,” Bagg stated. “I am currently paid long-term para [substitute] wages, but my responsibilities align with those of a full-time teacher, but my pay does not; my pay is low.”
Members of the Holyoke Teachers Association were also at the meeting to show support for its paraprofessionals. Holyoke Public Schools and the HTA have been negotiating for a new contract for over a year.
Reminder Publishing will continue to follow the negotiations and post updates as they evolve.
in Western Massachusetts.
“Round Up for Kids shows what happens when local communities come together around something bigger than a single transaction,” said Rocco Falcone, president of Rocky’s Ace Hardware. “Our customers understand that these hospitals are there for families on their hard-
Above, members of the HPA and HTA gather at the School Committee meeting to start the bargaining process for a new contract. HTA members, who have been negotiating a new contract for over a year, gathered to show support for the HPA. Bottom, HPA President Elizabeth Montagna speaks during public comment about the wants and needs in the HPA’s next contract.
Photo credit: Holyoke Media
Town sets Special Town Meeting amid budget problems
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
SOUTH HADLEY — The South Hadley Selectboard officially set a Special Town Meeting for Wednesday, Feb. 25 at South Hadley High School after a Feb. 10 discussion with multiple town boards.
During the special meeting, South Hadley voters will weigh in on raising the tax levy further than currently allowed, but the decision will ultimately be made by the Selectboard. The meeting comes after months of discussions about the town’s budget deficits, which threaten to cut multiple positions and extracurricular activities in town.
After months of meetings, gathering data, compiling community surveys and hosting public input sessions, the Budget Task Force gave their final budget report on Feb. 9.
The Selectboard had discussed the possibility of hosting a Special Town Meeting to determine solutions regarding tax override options. That meeting is now official following the release of the task force’s report.
After deeming that the $3 million tax override option did not make a dent to the deficit and major cuts would still happen, the Selectboard approved four options for the fiscal year 2027 budget scenarios: no override, a $6 million override, a $9
million override or an $11 million override.
The warrant includes three articles. Article 1 is to hear the report of the Selectboard relative to the findings of the Budget Task Force. Article 2 is to see if the town would approve a non-override budget, and Article 3 asks if the town would approve an override budget.
The no override and override scenarios are listed in the appendix of the warrant. All the reports can be found at southhadley.org.
The Budget Task Force report focused on FY27 through FY31.
The task force analyzed the town’s structural budget deficit. It reviewed multi-year revenue and expense trends, key cost drivers, growth constraints and the longterm financial outlook informed by detailed budget reviews, department consultations, capital planning input, peer community benchmarks and external research to evaluate multiple funding and override scenarios and their impacts on town and school services, expenditures and taxpayers.
The executive summary from the Budget Task Force stated, “the budget deficit is not attributable to a single issue; rather, it is the cumulative result of several decades of contributing factors.”
Following the review, the town anticipates encountering budget shortfalls of $2 million to $3 million annually over the upcoming three to four fiscal cycles. Signif-
Nominations
SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts is now accepting
for the town’s finances.
icant findings include that maintaining current town and school service levels will require an estimated $9 million to $11 million over that period, absent new revenue sources.
For South Hadley Public Schools, they require 4-6% annual increases to cover cost of living adjustments, step increases and inflation; actual average growth over the last decade was 2%, resulting in cuts. School Choice losses total $3.1 million, driven by outdated funding formulas and increased post-pandemic participation. Special education costs now represent 38% of the school budget, which is up from
25% in FY17.
Between community surveys and the Budget Task Force findings, there is support for an override paired with the transparent financial decision making, long-term fiscal stability planning, ongoing public engagement and education and strategic cost management to preserve essential services.
The report breaks down each tax override option, the number of years the tax levy will be raised, the dollar amount it would be raised by each year, the average monthly impact for taxpayers and budget impact and projected deficits.
The Budget Task Force mentioned that there is not one solution to overcome those problems, and the structural deficit will not be fixed by an override option alone. Each option still includes major or limited cuts and a budget deficit.
The South Hadley Budget Task Force has posted multiple videos on schtv.com to explain a proposition 2 ½ override, a tax levy and other terms. Previous meetings are also posted there.
The Selectboard also voted to dissolve the Budget Task Force since their work has been completed. The board thanked them for all the hard work they completed.
open for JAWM’s 2026 18 Under 18 Awards
nominations for its 18 Under 18 class of 2026, an annual awards program that recognizes excep-
tional young people who demonstrate innovative spirit, leadership and meaningful community involvement.
The 18 Under 18 Awards, presented by Teddy Bear Pools and Spas, celebrate students who are making a difference in their schools and communities while setting an inspiring example for their peers. Honorees will be recognized at a special awards celebration on Monday, May 18, 2026, at the Storrowton Carriage House in West Springfield.
“We know there are incredible young leaders across our region whose achievements often go unrecognized,” said Amie Miarecki, president of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts.
“The 18 Under 18 Awards give our community the opportunity to lift up those students, celebrate their hard work and show them that their leadership and service truly matter.”
Eligible nominees must be 18 years old or younger and attend school in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin or Berkshire counties; the Tantasqua, Quabbin or Quaboag regional school districts; or the state of Vermont.
Nominations may be submitted by teachers, mentors, coaches, parents or community members. Judging criteria are based on three key areas:
• Innovative spirit Leadership
• Community involvement
Each nomination requires a completed application with an optional supporting letter of reference and/or submission, such as video or artwork. Finalists will be selected for interviews and award recipients will be notified prior to the event.
The deadline for nominations is Friday, March 13. Nominations for the 18 Under 18 Class of 2026 can be submitted at jawm.org.
Sponsorship opportunities are available through April 1. JAWM thanks Teddy Bear Pools and Spas for returning as presenting sponsor and extends appreciation to all sponsors and partners supporting this signature youth recognition program.
est days, and they’re proud to support care that can change a child’s future.”
Eight Rocky’s locations in eastern Massachusetts took part in the campaign. One hundred
Abel
Mary
Gail
Edward
Winchell
Gerald
William T.
Lisa
Anthony
Richard A.
Elaine
James R. Farioli
Jesse
John S. Musiak
Marguerite V. Oakes
Margaret Sarkis
Joanne F. Shapiro
Irene O. Theberge
WILBRAHAM
Deborah
John
percent of the funds raised at those locations were directed to Baystate Children’s Hospital to support pediatric care, medical innovation and family-centered services.
“This campaign continues to grow because people believe in it,” Falcone said. “Looking ahead, we’re excited to keep building on this momentum and finding new ways to support the hospitals that do so much for our communities.”
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised nearly $10 billion since 1983, helping fund vital treatments, research and programs that improve the lives of children nationwide.
Multiple South Hadley boards gather to review the Budget Task Force report and discuss the next options
Photo credit: SHCTV15
Bombyx Brass Collective presents pre-spring concert
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
NORTHAMPTON — The Bombyx Brass Collective is gearing up for its next show, a pre-spring concert called “Musical Flurries,” on Sunday, March 1 at 3 p.m. at the Bombyx Center in Florence.
The 35-member, semi-professional brass ensemble led by Music Director Juli Sansoucy was founded in January 2022 and plays a mix of musical genres from classical to jazz to pop.
Members include active and retired music teachers, working professional musicians and talented amateur musicians.
The pre-spring “Musical Flurries” show is just one of the group’s regularly scheduled programs. They aim to put on three per year at a minimum.
“Basically, it’s kind of a potpourri of different styles of music, different types of music, basically all 20th-century music, but definitely different genres,” said Ira Brezinsky, an organizer and member of the collective.
A donation of $25 is suggested for the concert, but admission to all Bombyx Brass performances is free of charge, and donations are always accepted. To learn more about this upcoming event, as well as all the other programming at the Bombyx Center, visit www.bombyx.live.
The diverse, family-friendly program features two original works for brass choir: the iconic “Symphony for Brass and Percussion” by Alfred Reed and “Overture in F Minor” by Jean Sibelius. The concert will also include well-known music from John Williams and Hans Zimmer, and standards from the rock group Chicago.
Brezinsky said the show’s first section of performances is very well known among brass players and brass music fans.
“It will be an exciting piece.
SPRINGFIELD — On Saturday, Feb. 28 at 4 p.m. Young@Heart and Hope Center for the Arts are proud to present “Hope and Glory,” a show that will combine the Hope for the future as represented by the Hope Center’s students, faculty and staff at the newly renovated center at 150 Bridge St. in Springfield. The Glory represents the life and times of the recently deceased Evelyn Harris, who was a member of Young@
The middle movement is really beautiful. The first and the third movements are just super exciting, a lot of percussion. Just big, big sound,” said Brezinsky. “‘The Overture in F Minor’ is also an original piece for brass, which is kind of cool because oftentimes, we’re playing transcriptions and arrangements for brass that are normally played on different instruments. It’s also something that really demonstrates really solid, nice brass writing and playing.”
Brezinsky added that the process of transcription pieces of music to fit the brass collective’s form can be challenging, but often leads to interesting adaptations of beloved work for audiences.
“Trying to get the right kind of sound, sometimes just the technique is different. It can be challenging, but it’s also interesting. Sometimes, if we’re playing something that’s super well known, like the Chicago tunes — those were obviously originally written and played for a rock band with horns, but also a vocalist and that sort of thing. So, the arrangements we’re playing have to be switched up to accommodate our instrumentation. It’s just a different take, oftentimes, on music that people are familiar with and hearing it a different way,” explained Brezinsky.
Brezinsky said the show’s second half is the lighter side. Performances will feature wellknown movie themes and more Brass Collective adapted performances of music from the rock band, Chicago, with percussion accompaniment.
“I suppose the reason for making it such a diverse program is because we’re doing it on a Sunday afternoon. Hopefully making it really attractive for families and young kids who will be interested in different types of music and keep their attention,” added Brezinsky.
Brezinsky said he hopes to
Heart for the last 2.5 years of her life and who had such a magnificent impact in our region, nation and the world.
Special guests for the show will include:
Members of Sweet Honey in the Rock, an all-female, African American a cappella ensemble that started in 1973. They are a three-time Grammy Award-nominated troupe who express their history as black women through
see another great turnout for the Brass Collective’s March 1 “Musical Flurries” show, and expressed gratitude for the Bombyx Center for their partnership in helping them bring these performances to the community.
“We love to play for an audience. More often than not, the audience we get at the Bombyx Center is pretty good. A couple of hundred people might typically show up for one of our shows and having a pretty full house to play for is very gratifying. Most of our concerts that we do, we don’t get paid for. Whatever we collect at the door or in advance in terms of donations, [it] all just goes back into the pot to purchase music or equipment, advertising, that sort of thing,” said Brezinsky. “We haven’t been around all that long, but we’ve developed a little bit of
song, dance and sign language. Evelyn Harris was a member of the group from 1974-1992.
Yasmeen Betty Williams is an American gospel singer and former member of the Sweet Honey in the Rock from 1976 to 1986. Williams grew up during the gospel explosion in Washington, D.C. As a youth, she received her training in gospel music from her cousin, Dr. Shirley AblesStarks of the Joy Gospel Singers
a following. We always see new faces, but we also see a lot of faces returning time after time, people that just appreciate and enjoy the kind of music and the kind of sound that we have.”
Other Bombyx Brass Collective happenings
The Bombyx Brass Collective will also feature as performers on a parade float during this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Holyoke. About eight to 10 members will perform class horn band music on one of the floats throughout the parade route.
Aside from the show and parade, Brezinsky also emphasized the group’s established special program, where they visit public schools throughout the region to share their talents and enthusiasm for music with students of all
and her aunt, Vara Simpson, the founder of two gospel groups –The Service Gospel Singers and The Spiritualettes, who were often featured on the Metro D.C. WOOK Radio Station for early Sunday Morning worship. After meeting in Sweet Honey in the 70’s, Yasmeen remained Evelyn’s most cherished friend for the remainder of her life.
Kayla Staley is the director of vocal ensemble at the Hope
ages. The one-day program provides guidance to students during the school day and gives public performances in those communities the same evening.
Since 2023, the collective has visited music students in Holyoke, Monson, South Hadley, Sturbridge, Westfield and Wilbraham. Coming up on April 2, the Bombyx Brass Collective will partner with Enfield Public Schools to visit with middle and high school music students during the day before putting on a community show that evening.
For more information and to inquire about having the Bombyx Brass Collective come to your community, school or organization, email bombyxbrass@gmail.com.
Center’s after school. Kayla is a bright fireball of energy based in Springfield Massachusetts. A thriving freelance soul vocal artist, actress, dancer, social activist, and educator. Staley is the director of vocal ensemble at the Hope Center after school program. Buy tickets at the Hope Center website hopecenterforthearts. org/events/youngatheart/
The Bombyx Brass Collective.
Jimmy McArdle and Jerry Murphy 2-5
Caitlin Belanger passes the ball to Taeghan LaPorte.
Comp Colt seniors Sheyenne Santiago and Joaneliz Soto-Cintron with coach Alyssa Stefanelli at the Feb. 5 Senior Night.
Comp's Trinity McCarthy goes up for a basket.
Comp senior Joaneliz Soto-Cintron reaches for a rebound.
Comp junior Taeghan LaPorte shoots for a basket.
Bailey Neuhauser battles J'adore Reese for control of the ball.
Comp senior Sheyenne Santiago takes a shot over Sy'Nye Baker.
EAST LONGMEADOW - HOOK DELIVERY
THURSDAY
144 Papers: St. Joseph Dr., Wisteria Ln., Tracey Ln., Pembroke Terr., Abbey Ln., Rockingham Cir., Dartmouth Ln.,
Partial - Prospect St., Chestnut St., Somers Rd.
129 Papers: Gerrard Ave., Holy Cross Cir., Kingston Ave., Lombard Ave., Mereline Ave., Nelson St., Roderick Ave., Partial- N. Main St.
45 Papers: Partial-Allen Street
166 Papers: Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Villanova St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only)
LONGMEADOW - HOOK DELIVERY
THURSDAY
83 Papers: Williamsburg Dr., Eunice Dr., Tabor Crossing, Morgan Ridge, Burns Meadow, Churchill Dr., Partial - Converse St.
84 Papers: Chandler Ave., Partial - Longmeadow St.
109 Papers: Birnie Rd., Brookside Dr., Crescent Rd., Longview Dr., Fairhill Dr., Partial - Longmeadow St.
54 Papers: Bliss Rd.
87 Papers: Andover Rd., Ashford Rd., Cranwell Ln., Deerfield Ave., Willow Cir., Williston Dr., Willow Brook Rd., Partial - Frank Smith Rd.
157 Papers: Albemarle Rd., Arcadia St., Barclay St., Chiswick St., Fairway Dr., Franklin Rd., Lincoln Pk. & Rd., Whitmun Rd., Woodmont Rd., Hillside Ter.
96 Papers: Brookwood Dr., Kenmore Dr., Knollwood Dr., Partial - Shaker Rd.
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 Rd.
WILBRAHAM - HOOK DELIVERY THURSDAY
35 Papers: Arbor Ln., Greenwood Rd., Oak Ridge Dr.,
