MAY 7, 2026 | FREE
IN THIS EDITION
SOUTH HADLEY
FY27 budget dominates Town Meeting warrant
The beat goes on in South Hadley as this year’s Town Meeting will feature one of the most consequential budget discussions in the community’s history.
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CHICOPEE
Wicked Twist food truck brings southern style food to Chicopee
A long vacant space in Chicopee is getting a fresh and flavorful new start with the opening of Wicked Twist, a food truck area dedicated to breathing new life into the area.
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HOLYOKE
Girls Inc. of the Valley unveils new Hampden Street headquarters Girls Inc. of the Valley introduced its newly renovated headquarters on May 1, marking a major opportunities for girls across the region.
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Educators seeking new contract after 300 days
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Holyoke educators are continuing to push for a new contract that includes competitive salaries, improved leave policies, and a school calendar aligned with neighboring districts as negotiations with the city continue.
The Holyoke Teachers Association and Holyoke Paraprofessional Association members hosted a community forum on April 27, followed by a press conference, to address stalled progress with the School Committee and district.
The HTA contract expired on June 30, 2025, and negotiations have been ongoing since February 2025. Teachers have worked nearly 300 days without a new agreement, operating under the previous contract, a situation HTA President Nick Cream said has created stress and tension. The talks also mark the first negotiations since the district exited state receivership.
Key concerns raised include safety, compensation, licensure requirements tied to pay, limited preparation time, staffing shortages and leave policies. Cream said the union has compromised on several issues, but they are still seeking 14 sick days, three weeks of family leave and removal of licensure from the pay scale.
Cream stated, “Despite what Mayor [Joshua] Garcia, Assistant Superintendent Jackie Glasheen and the Holyoke School Committee want you to think, this is not actually about dollars and cents. Our proposals will bring stability to Holyoke and make us competitive with surrounding districts. Places like Chicopee, Springfield, [and] West Springfield, where great teachers go after working in Holyoke for a few years.”
The HPA, whose contract expires in June, has also begun ne-
gotiating. Vice President Veronica Santana emphasized paraprofessionals’ roles and the need for better wages and working conditions.
“Paraprofessionals are the backbone of the public school system. We’re more than classroom helpers; we’re essential support staff for both teachers and students who need extra support to thrive. We are at the times the individuals teaching in place of when teachers are in limited supply. Many of our members work second jobs to make ends meet,” Santana said. “We are seeking a living wage.”
The HPA was scheduled to meet with the district on April 30. HPA’s proposals to the district included feedback from every paraprofes-
sional in the district. The proposals are focused on professional compensation, health and safety, fair and humane leave policies, and respect, according to Santana.
Ahead of the forum, Garcia urged both sides to remain in mediation, which began March 12, and cautioned against a potential strike. The next mediation session was scheduled for May 6. Garcia stated that he thinks the two sides can come to an agreement if they remain in the mediation process. He added that the district’s negotiating team and the School Committee’s most recent proposal includes reducing the work year from 188 to 186 days, along with
reductions in total work hours at all levels of teaching in comparison with previous contracts. It also maintains weekly prep periods, while creating a space for collaboration that reinforces teaching and ultimately benefits the students, according to Garcia.
The proposal also presents a potential investment of $8.6 million over three years. On average, teachers would get an estimated 20% increase during the duration of the contract, including an increase of 8.9% in the first year alone, followed by additional increases in the second and third years.
Holyoke Paraprofessionals Association President Elizabeth Montagna spoke during public comment two months ago about the wants and needs in the HPA’s next contract.
Reminder Publishing file photo
Baystate Health to absorb Mercy Medical Center
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Mercy Medical Center, which has been affiliated with Trinity Health of New England for more than a decade, is slated to become Baystate Mercy Hospital by the end of the year.
In announcing Baystate Health’s acquisition of Mercy, Baystate Health President and CEO Peter D. Banko stated, “Mercy and the Sisters of Providence have been a fixture in our community since 1874. This is an investment in both the past and the future of health care and economic development in Western Massachusetts. Today, access forces too many patients to leave the region to seek care, and we need to ensure that care is compassionate, high quality, affordable, and local.”
A joint press release from Baystate and Trinity about the transition cited “inadequate reimbursement for care, industry-wide shifts — such as declining payment rates, changing consumer preferences toward outpatient services and persistent staffing shortages,” at Mercy as reasons behind the move.
Mercy has taken steps in recent years to bolster its financial position. Among them, Mercy Medical Center’s Certified Nurse Midwives moved maternity delivery services to Baystate Medical Center in December 2025. Baystate’s website states, “We have rigorously prepared for an additional 800 deliveries annually, including actively recruiting more OB/GYNs, midwives and nurses.”
Mayor Domenic Sarno released a statement on the merger. “I am very thankful to Baystate Health’s efforts to preserve two hospitals in the city. There was a distinct possibility that Mercy/ Trinity would simply close down. That was unacceptable,” Sarno said. “From the beginning, with my continued interaction with Baystate Health and Mercy/Trinity officials, as well as state officials, notably Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, I indicated that it was imperative that Springfield and the region must preserve two top notch hospitals for health care accessibility for the residents of Springfield and the surrounding areas. I am thankful to Baystate Health Pres-
ident & CEO Peter Banko, Gov. Healey, Lt. Gov. Driscoll and all parties involved for their efforts, and after long negotiations, that this has come to fruition.”
U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, who represents the state’s first congressional district, including the greater Springfield area, also praised the move. “I am pleased that Baystate Health and Trinity Health have reached an agreement that will allow these two vibrant hospitals to continue serving our communities,” Neal said. “As the country continues to grapple with unprecedented health care cuts resulting from President Trump’s One Big, Ugly Law, this acquisition will expand access to health care and improve services throughout the Pioneer Valley and beyond.”
Neal continued, “Together, these institutions represent more than three centuries of service to western and central Massachusetts. Ensuring their viability and continued success is vital
to the health of our families and our local economies, and this announcement represents a critical step in strengthening our regional health care system for generations to come.”
Baystate issued a statement thanking the Healey-Driscoll administration, Neal, Sarno and the Western Massachusetts Legislative delegation “for their steadfast and unwavering support of this hospital partnership in Western Massachusetts.”
Despite this statement, some members of the Western Massachusetts legislative delegation have questions about the change. State Rep. Carlos Gonzalez said he has reached out to Banko to request a meeting with himself and the rest of the Springfield delegation to discuss the implications for local health care services and personnel.
“The announcement of the acquisition raises significant concerns regarding the future of our health care landscape,” said Gon-
zalez. “It is vital that we ensure the continued operation of both hospitals in Springfield. Protecting our dedicated workers and staff is essential, as is guaranteeing that our community retains access to critical medical services.”
Like Gonzalez, state Sen. Jake Oliveira, who represents portions of Springfield, also said he has many questions about Mercy becoming affiliated with Baystate. However, he said the priority is to ensure that both Mercy and Baystate Medical Center continue to operate.
“If Mercy shut their doors, it would send a ripple effect” through Western Massachusetts health care, he said, adding that the hospital serves a lot of people on Medicare and Medicaid. “It’s my hope that we have two hospitals operating in Springfield because there is such a great need.”
Oliveira said he hopes that Mercy will keep its character, as he said other hospitals have done after being absorbed by Bay-
state. He said many people seek treatment at Mercy because it is a Catholic hospital and people “value that kind of care.”
The legislator said he was concerned about health care consolidation but pointed out that Baystate hospitals are not people’s only options in the Pioneer Valley. Cooley-Dickinson Hospital in Northampton is affiliated with Mass General Brigham and Holyoke Medical Center is an independent hospital.
Trinity Health of New England stated on its website that no immediate staffing changes are planned. The health care group declined to make any other comment. Reminder Publishing reached out to Baystate with questions about staffing and personnel changes, but did not receive a response by press time. Provided that the transition is approved after the regulatory review process, Mercy will be absorbed on Nov. 1.
Baystate Health recently announced that it will absorb Mercy Medical Center (pictured), which has been operated by Trinity Health of New England since 2015.
Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
www.TheReminder.com
FY27 budget dominates May 13 Town Meeting warrant SOUTH HADLEY
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
SOUTH HADLEY — The beat goes on in South Hadley as this year’s Town Meeting will feature one of the most consequential budget discussions in the community’s history.
The meeting will take place on Wednesday, May 13, at 6 p.m. inside South Hadley High School, 153 Newton St. and feature 23 articles, including Article 10, the proposed $59.8 million fiscal year 2027 budget, which features an increase of just under $2 million from FY26. With both override votes failing on April 14, the current proposal reflects a level-service budget but includes a roughly $2 million deficit.
During an April 28 Town Meeting warrant review meeting, the Appropriations Committee approved a $61.4 million budget, which added approximately $1.5 million in free cash to the school budget. The School Committee will discuss where the additional funding is allocated during its next meeting, and the budget will also be discussed at a future Selectboard and/or Appropriations Committee meeting. Town Meeting representatives will still have to approve the budget.
The School Committee recently approved a $27.5 million budget on March 17 that included the elimination of administrative positions, the reduction of high school staffing, and the elimination of sports, extracurriculars and music programs in the middle school and high school.
On April 28, Town Administrator Lisa Wong presented three options for the town: pass the budget as submitted, attempt another tax override or utilize free cash to balance the FY27 budget.
She stated, “To kind of keep this simple, if I were to tell you what my recommendation was, I would say give the schools an additional $1.5 million in free cash so they can level service and they can make some strategic investments.”
Articles 11–19 cover financial matters, many tied to a potential Proposition 2½ override. Wong recently proposed a $4.35 million override, which the Selectboard discussed on May 5, with a possible special election set for June 23.
Article 11 would supplement the operating budget contingent on an override, while Articles 12 and 13 would establish and fund an override stabilization fund for future costs.
“The supplemental budget could include overlaps with the original budget, so for example, if you said, ‘I want to spend another million dollars in free cash on the budget,’ then you could have an override that says that, ‘well, the override would replace that million dollars or it would be supplemental to that,’” Wong explained, “You then have to decide if you want to create that fund, and then you have to decide how much you want to fund that fund to the tune of how much and from where.”
Article 14 looks to allocate about $1.25 million for 19 capital projects across town departments.
Article 15 looks to transfer $625,000 from the wastewater treatment enterprise fund to make purchases, repairs and replacements in the wastewater capital budget.
Article 16 aims to transfer $100,000 from the Ledges Retained Earnings for capital purchases, repairs and replacements.
Article 17 will ask the town if they support a $100,000 transfer to the Special Education Stabilization Fund, while Article 18 looks to transfer $150,000 from free cash to the South Hadley Falls Redevelopment Fund.
Article 19 looks to transfer $400,000 from free cash to pay for snow and ice bills incurred in fiscal year 2026. Article 21 asks for Town Meeting to consider the repeal and replacement of the South Hadley Zoning Bylaw Chapter 255-91 Floodplain Regulations to meet current regulatory standards for floodplains. The Planning Board conducted a public hearing on March 13 for the proposed amendment to the Zoning Bylaw.
Article 22 is a zoning bylaw amendment that aims to insert new definitions related to types and regulation of signs.
According to the town, Article 23 is a citizen petition to strike “voting members,” and replace it with “residents of South Hadley,” so that it reads, “Only residents of the Town of South Hadley are entitled to address any Annual or Special Town Meeting, except that others may speak to articles at the discretion of the Town Moderator or upon a majority vote of the voting members.”
Articles 1–9 address routine business, including reports, borrowing authorization, grant acceptance and revolving fund spending.
Article 1 will hear and act
upon the report of town officers, board and committees, while Article 2 would authorize the treasurer, with the approval of the Selectboard, to borrow money from time to time in anticipation of revenue for FY27.
Article 3 would authorize the treasurer to enter into compensating balance agreements with bank offices in Massachusetts during FY27, and Article 4 seeks to authorize the Selectboard to defend against all suits brought against South Hadley.
Article 5 would authorize the Selectboard to apply for and accept federal or state grants as they become available, and Article 6 asks the town to accept Chapter 90 funds for highway improvements.
Article 7 asks to fix the compensation and salary of the town moderator, Selectboard members and assessors.
If passed, Article 8 would authorize the total expenditure for the revolving fund to be expended on Buttery Brook Farm for $50,000 and Council on Aging Woodlawn Café for $50,000.
Article 9, meanwhile, would authorize the Selectboard and School Committee to enter into contracts in excess of three years in FY26.
NAMI Western Massachusetts to host walkathon celebration fundraiser
HOLYOKE — NAMI Western Massachusetts — The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Western Massachusetts — will hold its 26th Annual Walkathon Celebration, “A Journey of Hope and Recovery” on Sunday, May 17, beginning at 11 a.m. with registration beginning at 10:30 a.m.
The event is suitable for all ages and abilities and will directly benefit NAMI Western Massachusetts’ continuing efforts to help improve the lives of all those affected by mental health conditions and their families.
ing unsustainable costs that could lead to layoffs, larger classes or cuts in the programs our students depend on,” Garcia explained.
“This adds to the 19.6% increase received in the previous contract over three years. Older educators would get even bigger benefits from old-age payments. This proposal is unprecedented, and it does so responsibly, avoid-
Cream said the numbers in the proposal are “pretty close,” but one of the major holdups is the district’s stance on licensure and pay steps.
“I don’t know of any other districts in this state that do this,” Cream said. “They’re basically
Join them while having a fun time and supporting a great cause. Among the festivities will be guest speakers, including Alan Wylde and Michaela Hearst, LICSW, activities, balloon twisting, raffles, entertainment and much more! Please help NAMI-WM continue their
using Holyoke, like we said, as an experiment ground, a place to say, ‘let’s try this out and see how it works.’ We want that to be fixed. Paying people differently based on doing the same exact work in a classroom next to somebody is not going to fix that; it’s actually maybe going to make it worse.”
Despite speculation, Cream said neither union has discussed a strike and does not know where
mission by participating in this Walkathon or by donating to the event easily on their website.
NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. NAMI provides advocacy, education, support and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental health conditions can Build Better Lives. For further information please contact their office at 413-786-9139 or visit namiwm. org/walkathon for the entry/ pledge and sponsor forms. Volunteers are needed.
the rumor came from.
In a statement on social media the day after HTA’s press conference, Garcia said he felt good about the strong proposal that is now in front of the HTA. He added that he was relieved to find that a strike would not happen and encouraged the HTA to advance the School Committee’s most recent proposal forward.
“I am relieved to hear from
HTA union leadership that they are not planning to strike,” Garcia said the day after the conference. “I am especially glad to see that we are in agreement that a strike would hurt our students and their families. It is good that all parties agree on this. Our students, families, and educators deserve stability, not disruption, as we work together to strengthen our schools.”
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — Officials, residents, family and current and past baseball players gathered in Chicopee on April 30 to rededicate the Rivers Park baseball field in honor of Dan Dulchinos, recognizing his impact on and off the diamond.
Dulchinos, who retired in 2012, served as the varsity baseball coach at Chicopee Comprehensive High School for 50 years, beginning in 1962, the same year the school opened. His teams won over 600 games, four Western Massachusetts titles and one state championship.
He was inducted into the Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, the Western Massachusetts Baseball Hall of Fame and the Chicopee Athletic Hall of Fame.
In addition to his legendary coaching career, Dulchinos served as a teacher, guidance counselor and athletic director at Chicopee Comprehensive High School
“My love is people,” Dulchinos stated. “I love to see people; I love to see them happy; I love to see them doing well; I love to see them successful. My philosophy when I was coaching, my number one job as a coach was to make
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — A long vacant space in Chicopee is getting a fresh and flavorful new start with the opening of Wicked Twist, a food truck area dedicated to breathing new life into the area through its southern-style cuisine.
The new truck and city officials hosted a ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony on April 24 to introduce the new business and community area located at 181 Center St. Wicked Twist food truck owner Allison Brown said she moved from Georgia to Chicopee last year and “decided to
CHICOPEE
these kids better people and then, in turn, teach them the game of baseball, teach them the skills needed to play the game, but also teach them the skills of life.”
Although he accomplished a lot on the field, many people at the event spoke about the legacy Dulchinos left beyond the baseball field, including Mayor John Vieau.
“The accomplishments are impressive, but that’s only part of the story,” Vieau said. “What truly sets Coach Dulchinos apart is the impact he’s had on young people. He showed what it’s meant to be committed not only to the sport but to this community.”
Vieau ended his speech by naming April 30 “Dan Dulchinos Day” in the city of Chicopee.
“The rededication is not just about the field. It’s about ensuring that every player who steps onto this diamond; they understand the legacy behind it,” Vieau said. “It’s about remembering the standard that Coach Dulchinos set and carrying it forward for generations to come.”
Chicopee Comp baseball
coach Justin Franczek, who took over for Dulchino and is only the second baseball coach in Chicopee Comp baseball history, talked about Dulchinos’ sizable impact on the coach and the legacy he left beyond the final out.
go on this really wild adventure.”
Brown explained that she decided to open her food truck area in Chicopee after visiting Western Massachusetts with her fiancée, a Ludlow native.
“I was like, there’s nobody else doing my kind of food up here, might as well try it, so we decided a food truck park was going to be the answer to it,” Brown stated. “I’m super stoked about it because there’s nothing like any of my menu stuff anywhere else around here.”
Brown said her two best sellers right now are The Southern Slap — a Portuguese roll stacked with spicy fried catfish,
“When you think about a great coach, you think about strategy, you think about knowledge of the game, you think about discipline, and Coach had all of that,” Franczek said. “What truly sets him apart as an incredible coach is who he was and who he still is as a person. Coach D didn’t just coach baseball players, he shaped people, and that’s what makes those wins and all those championships even more meaningful.”
Dulchinos’ grandson, Ryan Kazeroid, also spoke on behalf of his family.
“You’ve inspired so many, and so many of those people are here today to honor you, even after you made them run laps or told them to shave,” Kazeroid said. “I’m sure everyone has a favorite story or memory of their time with [Dulchinos], but I think the greatest compliment to you is I bet most of those stories have nothing to do with baseball at all, but would have to do with life and love.”
Dulchinos explained that when people asked about a player who used to play for him, he first talked about them as a person before mentioning how they were as a ball player.
“It’s more important that you’re a person and how well you treat not only people on your own team, [but] on the opposing
honor of Dulchinos
team too,” Dulchinos stated.
Dulchinos Field recently went through renovations, including new dugouts and fencing improvements, before the start of the baseball season. In 2021, the playing field was renovated during PARC improvements at Rivers Park, including a new playing surface and irrigation system.
The baseball field at Rivers Park was originally named in honor of Dulchinos in 1994.
The re-dedication ceremony on April 30 took place 32 years to the day after the original naming of the field.
Chicopee Parks and Recreation Department Superintendent Benjamin Strepka ended the ceremony by officially rededicating Dulchinos Field in honor of the coach.
“May his legacy continue to inspire and remind that every player who takes the field that becoming a great baseball player starts with being a good person,” Strepka concluded.
Dulchinos was gifted a framed Chicopee Comprehensive baseball jersey with his number of wins on it and the field’s home plate with the rededicated field name on it.
southern style food to Chicopee
collard slaw and crispy fried onions, topped with sizzle drizzle sauce and their Razzle Dazzle seasoning — and All the way Twisted fries, which is fries or chips loaded with sausage gravy, cheese, crispy fried onions, chicky chunks, sizzle drizzle and Razzle Dazzle.
Brown also highlighted the homemade watermelon lemonade she makes, which she said is also popular.
“Come enjoy some yummy southern food,” Brown stated. Currently, Wicked Taste’s hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. They will also be open the first Sunday
of each month for what Brown called “market days.” Brown also added that once school is out for the summer, she will extend her hours.
Besides serving food, Brown said the revitalized space will allow residents to gather, artists to express themselves and families to have fun.
“We have worked really hard with the city to just kind of redo this area and turn it into something really cool. I want it to be very, very community focused, local artists, other food trucks and just doing southern cooking my way,” Brown stated.
For the grand opening event, artists were present to paint a few pieces, while many residents purchased food, hung around at the picnic tables and played some lawn games.
Brown talked about the turnout, stating, “Just having the support of the city has been huge for me. It’s so exciting. It’s very surprising. I just want to grow this community. I want this to be a really fun space for our commu-
nity. That’s the biggest thing ... to just bring everybody closer. I think food does that with everybody, and that’s what I’m looking forward to.”
Chicopee Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Melissa Breor talked about the newly revitalized space.
“It’s really exciting to see another new tenant here who’s got so much energy and so much drive to really keep the space activated,” Breor stated. “The city has done a really great job maintaining the space and cleaning it up for this business.”
Mayor John Vieau explained that the space used to be a former gas station that was cleaned and is now a safe space for the community to enjoy, thanks to Wicked Taste.
“Thank you for investing as a stakeholder to Chicopee and welcome to our family,” Vieau said to Brown. “I’ll share that wonderful things are happening downtown, and this is just one of them. Excited about people enjoying this space.”
Officials, residents, family and current and past baseball players gather to honor Coach Dan Dulchinos with the rededication of Dan Dulchinos Field at Rivers Park.
Reminder Publishing photos by Tyler Garnet
Wicked Twist food truck owner Allison Brown celebrates the grand opening of her new business during a grand opening event with the city on April 24.
Reminder Publishing photos by Tyler Garnet
Residents invited to share road safety concerns
SPRINGFIELD — Residents
across the Pioneer Valley are invited to help shape a regional effort to improve roadway safety by participating in a new interactive mapping tool. As part of a Safe Streets and Roads for All planning process, community members can identify locations where they have experienced or observed safety concerns. The online map allows users to
drop a pin and provide comments about issues such as speeding, limited visibility, unsafe crossings or near misses. This community-driven input helps identify safety concerns that may not be reflected in crash data alone.
Contribute to the map at: fhistudio-apps.com/arniev2/#/tool/ pioneer-valley-safe-streets
The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission is especially inter-
ested in hearing from residents across all Pioneer Valley communities. Input from rural areas and smaller town centers is critical to ensuring a comprehensive and equitable safety plan.
“Local knowledge is essential to understanding where safety improvements are most needed,” said Gary Roux, director of transportation at PVPC. “We encourage residents from every
corner of the region to share their experiences.” The feedback collected will inform strategies to reduce crashes, improve roadway design and enhance safety for all users, including people walking, biking, driving and using public transportation. Residents are encouraged to participate and share the map with others in their community.
HCC awarded $455K for clean energy careers training
HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College has been awarded a $455,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to continue and refine its clean energy careers training programs.
In particular, the grant will pay for two free training programs for up to 30 individuals, Introductory Training in Construction, Electricity and Clean Energy Systems in fall 2026, and Solar Installer / Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship program in spring 2027.
HCC piloted both programs in 2025 after receiving a $1.42 million grant from the Mass. Executive Office of Education for climate-related workforce training initiatives. The new award is part of a $7 million allocation in clean energy and climatetech grants announced last month by the Healey-Driscoll administration.
“The first grant was really to design, develop, and essentially figure out what would work in our market,” said Kermit Dunkelberg, HCC assistant vice president of adult basic education and workforce development. “Now we’ll not just be continuing but refining these programs to achieve even stronger outcomes.”
The MassCEC grants will support 17 organizations through four programs: Equity Training Implementation; Climate Critical Training, Equipment and Infrastructure; Climate Critical Underrepresented Business Support and Student and Young Adult Career Awareness and Training. They are designed to help local organizations expand inclusive training, career awareness, and business support for jobs such as electricians, solar technicians, HVAC-R technicians, energy auditors, refrigeration technicians and EV charger technicians.
HCC received its grant through the Equity Training Implementation program track.
HCC was the only community college in Massachusetts to receive a dedicated grant, while the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges, a consortium of all 15 community colleges in the state, received $120,000 to support HVAC programs across the community college system.
“Massachusetts is leading the nation in clean energy and climatetech, and that leadership depends on a strong, skilled work-
force,” said Gov. Maura Healey.
“These investments will connect with residents across the state to good-paying careers while helping employers meet growing demand. We are building a clean energy economy that creates opportunity in every region and real jobs for Massachusetts workers.”
HCC’s key partners in the grant are Holyoke’s Dean Technical High School, where the clean energy training classes meet, and solar industry companies PV Squared and SolaBlock.
Other partners include MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board, Coalition for Equitable Economy, Springfield Works, Browning the Green Space and the Entrepreneurship & Business Collaborative.
“Thanks to these grants, we’ve been able to connect students to career pathways that can be very challenging to get into,” said Mary Wager, HCC workforce and economic development training manager. “Through our programs and partnerships, students are introduced to building trades unions, in particular, the electrical workers union and carpentry union, as well as solar installer and electrical apprenticeship opportunities.”
Since 2025, HCC has run the introductory clean energy introductory program three times, the solar tech program once,
a weatherization program two times and recently introduced an Introduction to Manufacturing and Clean Energy Applications pilot program.
“These programs are creating opportunities for underserved populations,” said Dunkelberg.
“It’s not just opening the pathways but reaching deeply into the community to create the access that’s been missing.” Program enrollment will begin during the summer, but applicants can fill out a general interest form now at hcc.edu/cleanenergy.
Paper City Fabrics breathes new life into thrift store model
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Paper City Fab-
rics is stitching together sustainability and accessibility, using a thrift store model to give new life to donated textiles while keeping sewing affordable for the community. By recirculating fabrics and notions back into the hands of local makers, the shop says that it fuels creativity and keeps usable materials out of landfills.
“We are a thrift store of fabric, which basically means most of the fabric in our shop, as well as all of the sewing notions, are donated to us so we are able to sell them back to the community at an affordable price,” Paper City Fabrics founder and co-owner Joseph Charles stated. “I think people get excited when they know that the stuff
that they love is going to be passed on to somebody else for them to also love it.”
Charles talked with Reminder Publishing about the shop and its recent efforts to tie in their model to Earth Day.
Located at 330 High St., Paper City Fabrics sells all fabric for $6 per yard, keeping sewing affordable and diverting unused fabric and sewing supplies from landfills.
“For us, obviously, we’re getting all the fabric, we’re getting everything that’s donated for free, so for us, it’s a really great way to give that to the community and to be able to sell fabric and make it more accessible to everyone,” Charles stated.
Donations also come from many different places, including from movie sets and Broadway, but Charles said most donations come from home sellers.
“People who are cleaning out and want to see their beautiful vintage and antique fabric that they’ve collected over the years go back to someplace that is going to circulate it back out into the world,” Charles stated.
Paper City Fabrics hosted its first-ever Destash Bash on Saturday, April 18. The event encouraged local sewists, quilters and crafters to drop off bags of unwanted/unused fabric in exchange for a 10% off coupon they can use at Paper City Fabrics.
The Destash Bash is an extension of what Paper City Fabrics does every day, relying on the generosity of the community to drop off fabric and sewing supplies they no longer need. Charles said, “For Earth Day, we kind of wanted to just open it up and say, ‘hey, if you’ve got stuff to come donate, just come
drop it off, we’ll give you a little discount coupon, and it was great.’ We had a bunch of people show up. We got some really incredible donations.”
The shop is beginning to sift through those donations now, which will be on display online and at the store.
Aside from utilizing the storefront, Paper City Fabrics also sells the fabric online to buyers across the country.
Paper City Fabrics also hosts an event a few times a year to recirculate scraps. “We have a big bag sale, and we just fill up bins with scraps, and people come, and they fill up a bag, and for us, it’s really just trying to recirculate as much as we can,”
Charles explained.
Charles reiterated that the store model promotes a recycling method, and the business is committed to recirculating
fabrics and notions to other makers and making sewing affordable and accessible for everyone, while preventing wasted material from ending up in landfills.
“I think a big part of our business is trying to be conscious of the amount of waste that there is within the fabric industry, specifically the fashion industry,” Charles stated. “Coming from that industry myself, I’m very much aware of just how much waste there is, and so for us, we just want to be conscious of that and making sure that the fabric doesn’t end up in a landfill or in the trash or wherever else it may go.”
Paper City Fabrics takes donations on an appointment-only basis. Readers can book an appointment or learn more about the shop at papercityfabrics.com.
Girls Inc. of the Valley unveils new Hampden Street headquarters
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Girls Inc. of the Valley introduced its newly renovated headquarters on May 1, marking a major milestone in expanding opportunities for girls across the region.
The event honored the donors, partners and community members whose support made the transformation possible, including securing $7.25 million through the fundraising effort led by the organization to fund the building’s renovation, while showcasing how the new space is already strengthening and expanding the organization’s impact.
The newly renovated headquarters provides a permanent home for the Girls Inc. experience: a safe, supportive environment where girls gain the skills, confidence and connections they need to succeed, according to the organization.
Girls Inc. of the Valley Executive Director Suzanne Parker talked with Reminder Publishing about the organization’s impact after the event.
“It was really about securing the future for Girls Inc.,” Parker stated. “Having a permanent home where we can provide that incredible Girls Inc. experience and have that space for girls to come and just know this is for them and they can explore and
use their voice and have all that great Girls Inc. programming.”
The celebration took place at the organization’s Holyoke headquarters, located at 480 Hampden St., and included tours and a program with remarks from youth participants sharing firsthand stories about the impact of Girls Inc. programming.
With expanded space and resources, Girls Inc. of the Valley is already increasing its reach across Holyoke and surrounding communities, expanding evidence-based programming and deepening partnerships with local organizations, leaders said.
“It also positions us because it’s kind of like a hub for us,” Parker explained. “It’s a great location because we have all these school partners in Springfield and Chicopee, as well as Holyoke, so we reach lots of youth throughout the valley.”
Parker also talked about how space allows the organization to do things they couldn’t do before.
“There’s this beautiful outdoor space, outdoor yard that we literally open up the door, and the kids can go right outside,” Parker said. “Of course, all the program space, we have thousands of square feet of program space. We have a makerspace, we’ve got 3D printers going in there. So it’s just all of this beautiful space that the kids know it’s for them, and that makes a big difference for them.”
Girls Inc. of the Valley is a nonprofit committed to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold by providing them with educational development programs that are research-driven and designed to meet the specific needs of girls. Girls Inc. of the Valley serves youth ages 5-18 from the greater Holyoke, Springfield and Chicopee areas.
The grand opening celebration also served as the kickoff to the organization’s Together Week, which builds momentum toward the organization’s National Day of Giving on May 7, an opportunity for the community to support and sustain expanded programming for local youth.
Parker explained that Girls Inc. Together Week is a way to lift the awareness of Girls. Inc and what they do, including an online day of giving across the country and locally.
Readers interested in learning
more about Girls Inc. in the Valley can visit girlsincvalley.org or follow them on social media.
“We want to fill the building this summer.” Parker stated. “We want as many kids as possible. We know there’s a lot of families out there that have a huge need for high-quality summer programs, for after school programs. By having those additional resources, we can make sure the kids who really need it most and who are really gonna benefit from these opportunities can access the programming.”
Left to right: Cynthia Medina Carson, Bernadette Harrigan, Suzanne Parker, Debra Vega and Sabria Brown pose at the Girls Inc. of the Valley new headquarters grand opening.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
Minogue dominates as Republicans narrow gubernatorial field to two
By Katie Castellani and Ella Adams State House News Service
BOSTON — Republican delegates qualified two out of three possible gubernatorial candidates for the September primary ballot: Mike Minogue and Brian Shortsleeve. Minogue earned the convention’s endorsement by a landslide.
Minogue received 70.38% of the delegates’ votes and Shortsleeve earned 15.5% — narrowly surpassing the 15% threshold needed for his candidacy to survive.
Mike Kennealy, secretary of housing and economic development under former Gov. Charlie Baker, received 14.11% of the delegates’ votes, spelling an end to his bid for the party’s nomination. A small number of delegates chose not to cast a vote for a gubernatorial candidate.
Minogue, former CEO of Danvers-based biotech firm Abiomed, opened his convention speech by asking the audience questions, including if delegates were ready for the voter-approved legislative audit and to “get criminal illegal immigrants off our streets.”
The DCU Center audience erupted in cheers.
Minogue leaned on his faith, saying he believes “all things are possible with God.” He touted his work leading Abiomed, a company he said was on the path to bankruptcy when he took over. As governor, Minogue said he would do something similar for Massachusetts, helping the state address its affordability woes as well as what he called waning economic competitiveness and an “illegal immigration crisis.”
“So, how do we get on the right path? We elect a leader with integrity and common sense and compassion,” he said. “We elect a new kind of governor with a blueprint to accountability, affordability, opportunity and keeps communities safe.”
Minogue promised to take several actions as governor, including, auditing the Legislature and budget; cutting taxes and spending by getting rid of “waste and fraud”; cutting energy utility fees; investing in energy sources like natural gas and nuclear, which he said were safe, clean and more affordable; canceling and repeal the state’s net zero emissions mandates; and growing jobs by retaining and recruiting entrepreneurs and businesses.
“I’m the only candidate and CEO that has actually built a company and sweated the details, so I will cut red tape. I know how it works,” he said.
Shortsleeve and Kennealy made similar promises to delegates during their speeches.
A former MBTA chief administrator and acting general manager, Shortsleeve leaned on his time as a Marine and small business owner while introducing himself to the convention.
“We need a new governor with the determination of a Marine, the mindset of a businessman, the perspective of an outsider and the urgency of a father who knows the clock is ticking until the time when my kids and yours decide whether to stay or whether to go. I will be that governor,” he said.
Shortsleeve also backed a legislative audit — similar to the
one Auditor Diana DiZoglio is attempting — saying he would audit every agency and program in state government if elected. He added that part of his work at the T involved agency audits, including one he said uncovered millions in fraud.
Shortsleeve also advocated for cutting the income tax rate, saying he would support a proposed ballot initiative to cut it from 5% to 4%.
“Middle class tax relief that that ballot question would deliver is the first step in restoring affordability,” Shortsleeve told the News Service during the convention.
Additionally, Shortsleeve said he would strip “state mandated green fees” out of utility bills and fire the Parole Board, which he said “treats criminals like victims and victims like afterthoughts.”
Kennealy’s camp could not immediately be reached after the convention results were announced Saturday evening.
Delegates also gave all three candidates for lieutenant governor enough support to secure their name on the ballot. Minogue-backed Anne Brensley secured the party endorsement receiving 1,100 votes, about 56% of delegates’ support.
“If we have four more years of the Healey-Driscoll administration, then what we’re losing each day will be gone forever. The real repercussions of these policies cut deeply, are relentless and do not spare anyone,” Brensley said.
At around 5 p.m., to a crowd of delegates who were frustrated with voting delays, Brensley said, “I don’t know about you, but I want to hear from some governors, so my speech is going to be real short: Thank you all so much for believing in me, we’re just starting. Let’s go.”
Gubernatorial candidates had not given their speeches yet, putting the convention hours behind its tentative schedule.
Anne Manning-Martin, running with Kennealy, received 27.33% of the votes with 536. Delegates cast 325 votes, or 16.57%, for Shortsleeve’s preferred running mate Shawn Oliver.
“In Peabody and in local government, you don’t get to hide from the people you serve, especially when you’re looking for their votes. You don’t get to duck responsibility,” Manning-Martin told delegates, railing on the Healey administration for much of her speech.
A New Bedford city councilor and state correction officer, Oliver spoke about his experience as a first-generation Portuguese American, criticizing the state’s criminal justice system, “sanctuary policies,” cost of living, and outmigration, arguing that “Beacon Hill has made it nearly impossible for the next generation to build a life here.”
“Families all across Massachusetts are being pushed to the edge. Businesses are closing and our young people are leaving,” Oliver said. “Heck, that little girl that I had when I was 17 — she did it. She couldn’t afford to stay in Massachusetts, and is living over the border in Rhode Island. As a father, that disgusts me.”
An elongated voting and counting period for the lieutenant governor endorsement caused a ruckus among delegates. MassGOP Chair
Amy Carnevale said the delay stemmed from the time it took delegates “getting up and down the DCU Center and the stairs,” the larger number of members present in some districts, and the desire for privacy among voters.
“In a couple of districts, some of the leads wanted to assure that their delegates had a more private experience,” Carnevale said. “That caused a little bit of a delay in a couple of the districts.”
In a pre-convention webinar Friday, MassDems Chair Steve Kerrigan told Democrats that the party expects to have “a clear picture of this race after this weekend.”
“What we do know is we have seen an unprecedented level of self funding in this race,” Kerrigan said. “All three of these candidates have been pouring their own
money into the race, and on top of that, they all have super PACs affiliated with them, as well. All of these factors really set up this race to be probably the most expensive governor’s race in our commonwealth’s history.”
In the first quarter of 2026, Minogue led the fundraising pack among statewide candidates, bringing in more than $7.5 million — $7 million of which came from Minogue himself. Shortsleeve brought in about $646,500 throughout the quarter and Kennealy raised around $438,900, according to the Office of Campaign and Political Finance.
“Each of these candidates seeking their nomination are going to be focused on bringing Donald Trump’s harmful agenda to Massachusetts,” Kerrigan said. “This
convention is basically going to be a race to the bottom to satisfy the MAGA base of delegates who are really going to decide the GOP nominee. Our job always is to stay focused on fighting against the misinformation and the attacks we know are coming.”
Massachusetts Democrats hold their nominating convention May 29 and 30, also at Worcester’s DCU Center. GOP candidates will now be eyeing voter support for the next few months leading up to the Sept. 1 primary.
Katie Castellani and Ella Adams are reporters for the State House News Service and State Affairs Massachusetts. Reach them at kcastellani@statehousenews.com and ella.adams@statehousenews.com.
MassGOP-endorsed gubernatorial candidate Mike Minogue waves at the crowd at the DCU Center in Worcester on April 25, 2026.
State House News Service photo by Ella Adams
Massachusetts Senate passes sweeping environmental bond bill
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
The Massachusetts Senate recently voted 36-3 in favor of a $3.64 billion bill to address climate change, protect the state’s natural resources and make much needed infrastructure improvements across the state, including in Western Massachusetts.
State Sen. Jake Oliveira, who represents the Hampden, Hampshire and Worcester District explained that environmental bond bills, like the Mass Ready Act, are usually taken up by the Legislature every five years. A bond bill utilizes the state’s ability to take on debt to fund policy priorities and infrastructure. Massachusetts’ general obligation bond rating from Standard & Poor is AA+ and stable, which Oliveira said allows the state to borrow money at favorable interest rates and spread out costs over time.
“With the budget, we have to make sure the state keeps operating and moving forward,” said state Sen. Adam Gómez, who represents most of Springfield and part of Chicopee. Therefore, he said, “With some of these bigger projects, the only way they’ll happen is with bond money.”
Because the state takes on these projects and policies once every few years, Oliveira said the Mass Ready Act is “a pretty intense bill.”
Water and sewer
Much of Oliveira’s work on the bill focused on clean water. He recalled the contaminated water situations that occurred in Flint, Michigan, from 2014-2025 and Jackson, Mississippi, in August 2022, and said those issues took a significant toll on the local economies, as well as impacting people’s health.
Many of the water and sewer lines in Massachusetts are about 100 years old and made of cast iron. Municipalities have slowly been replacing them with modern PVC pipes, but the projects are expensive. “It’s not just the pipes but it’s also filtration systems,” Oliveira said.
Oliveira said the Mass Ready Act also includes provisions that increase how much input Western Massachusetts towns have when it comes to regional water supplies.
Springfield and Ludlow, where Oliveira lives, both receive water from the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission. Additionally, the water for Agawam, Southwick, Longmeadow and East Longmeadow are treated by the SWSC.
Further, the SWSC gets its water from the Little River Watershed in Blandford and Russell.
“A significant portion of the people who get their water through Springfield Water and Sewer Commission live outside the city,” he said. Oliveira filed an amendment to the bond bill that expanded the commission from three people to seven and guaranteed representation for area towns on the commission’s advisory committee.
Meanwhile, in Chicopee, South Hadley and Wilbraham, residents receive their water from Quabbin Reservoir through the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority. Oliveira said he fought to ensure a seat on the MWRA board is reserved for someone from Western Massachusetts.
“If you’re a rate payer, if your resources are being used, you deserve a seat at the table,” Oliveira said.
In addition to these changes, Oliveira said $5 million was allotted to help remediate the polychlorinated biphenyls, banned chemicals also known as PCBs, which were found in the Westfield River. Also in the bill is $4.5 million in a clean water trust, $15 million to filter water in schools and child care set-
ST. JUDE’S NOVENA
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer nine times a day. By the eighth day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you St. Jude for granting my petition.
S.S.
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.
CHICOPEE
Marian A. “Pookie” Champigny (Sousa)
James E. Czerwiecki
Margaret Ann McClure Deitz
Levis J. P. Drapeau
Yvette Harrington
Claire Y. Henault
Jeannine M. Martell
John D. McClure
Orminda M. Oliveira (Do Souto)
Gregory J. Pray Sr.
Fletcher D. Ramsey
Jean J. Sullivan
EAST LONGMEADOW
Marcia M. Kessler
Lynn Ann O’Connor HOLYOKE
Agustin Rivera Coldero
Christine A. Dearborn
Richard A. Desgres
Kevin Lukasiewicz
LONGMEADOW
Brian C. Edgerly
Stephan John Wilfred Platzer
LUDLOW
Dennis M. Daviau
Sandra Lee Kulig
Annette M. Polansky
Alan John Vautrain
SOUTH HADLEY
Susan E. Donais
Richard A. Narkiewicz
Dorothy N. Schenker
SPRINGFIELD
Luigina A. Barbieri
Jacob Barnard
Rose M. Dennis
Roger Arthur Dziuban
Kiser McLaughlin
Thomas C. O’Sullivan
George E. Sampson
WILBRAHAM
Beverly J. Chiarizio
Joan Davis
Ursula Whyte “Wendy” Gibb James E. “Jim” Wilkinson Sr.
tings, and $120 million to filter perand polyfluoroalkyl substances, widely referred to as PFAS, from private drinking water wells.
A fund was created to replace channel markers in the Connecticut River near the Holyoke Dam, and $20 million was provided to update the antiquated McLaughlin Fish Hatchery in Belchertown, which Oliveira has fond memories of visiting with his grandfather.
Air quality
While Oliveira was focused on clean water, state Sen. Adam Gómez had his sights set on clean air. He secured a $5 million amendment to the bill, establishing a pilot program to improve indoor air quality in schools, public housing, correctional facilities and other public spaces.
“For communities like mine in Springfield, this is not theoretical — it’s everyday life,” Gómez said in a press release. “This amendment is about something fundamental: the right of every person in the Commonwealth to breathe clean, safe air, no matter their zip code, income, or the condition of the building they live, learn, or work in.”
He later told Reminder Publishing, “This is an environmental justice issue. It’s a matter of dignity.”
Gómez said the air conditions at the Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse, which have long made employees sick and drove the state to build a new courthouse, was one of the main reasons he pursued the amendment. Another was Springfield’s Gerena School, which has seen similar issues linked to poor air quality.
“We’re still an asthma capital,” Gómez said about Springfield, which had the highest rates of asthma in the country in 2018 and 2019. He said, “Poor air quality contributes to asthma in communities along highways and train tracks,” a situation present in many neighborhoods in Springfield. Smog and pollutants settle in those low-lying areas. He said, “That’s why you see these levels in Black and brown communities.”
Gómez previously filed a bill to establish a framework that will identify, monitor and remediate indoor air pollution and mold con-
tamination in public buildings. He said it was the first program of its kind in Massachusetts. Gómez said, “It’s a preventative policy, but it will save money” in subsequent health care costs.
Other priorities Among other Mass Ready Act provisions is one that bans single-use plastic bags from retail checkouts. Oliveira said the environmental impact of single-use plastics, which do not degrade over time, but instead break apart into microplastics, cannot be overstated. “These bags can get into drinking water,” he said, adding that they are ubiquitous. When participating in an Earth Day cleanup recently, he saw bags “go by like tumbleweeds.”
Oliveira said he did not receive any comments or emails in opposition to this change. He noted many municipalities have already adopted similar bans and supermarkets, like Big Y, provide paper bags at a minimal cost, or otherwise incentivize people to bring reusable bags.
Three million dollars would be used to address a levee on Riverside Drive in Springfield, which Gómez said has caused sinkholes, while $1 million would go to fix a road in Blunt Park that Gómez described as “dilapidated.”
Over the past decade, the PFAS in firefighter equipment have been identified as a cause of cancers among fire personnel that are otherwise rare. The bill set aside $25 million to help departments replace the expensive equipment with new, safer versions.
Another fund was created to help with reforestation to address the dead and dying trees left in the wake of a gypsy moth infestation nearly a decade ago. Beyond the aesthetic value of trees, Oliveira said they help cool communities, and one tree provides a person with a year’s worth of oxygen.
Now that the bill has passed in the Senate, it moves to the state House of Representatives for review.
Scoreboard oozes
By Ryan Feyre rfeyre@thereminder.com
AGAWAM — No matter the season, an avid sports fan such as myself usually spends their weekends on the lookout for the perfect spot to watch the game. There are very few things more exhilarating than experiencing the highs and lows of your favorite team with total strangers at a local spot. Heck, why spend hundreds of dollars on gas, parking and tickets, when you can capture a thrilling atmosphere five minutes away?
When I first walked into the newly renovated Scoreboard Bar & Grille in Agawam, I had a feeling the place could accomplish just that. Boston sports memorabilia graced every corner of the 15 King St. restaurant, TVs ran highlights of the prior night’s Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics playoff games, and the wooden rectangular bar invited guests to chat about their daily minutiae. Between the decorations and the exterior ambience generated by the Front Street rail crossing just outside, it truly felt like I was pregaming at a bar adjacent to Fenway Park.
Despite it being 3 p.m. on a random Tuesday, I could immediately sense the vibe the bar is going for. The owners’ sister bar, Murphy’s Pub on 664 Suffield St. in Agawam, has become a staple weekend gathering spot for those in Western Massachusetts who want drinks and a late-night bite while the big game is on. Although Scoreboard captures a similar sentiment, I noticed that the new renovations yielded much more space to walk around, and based on its location and compact menu, it appears the bar is trying to capture a chiller, more localized atmosphere.
Most of the food is standard bar fare. Handheld sandwiches,
traditional sports bar feel at every corner
burgers and classic appetizers like mozzarella sticks grace the brief menu. I opted for a bacon cheeseburger and fries on my solo adventure, but patrons have the option of building the burger however way they want. My personal preference is a burger that‘s cooked to medium, but the one I had at Scoreboard was essentially well-done. Still, I thought the charred fusion of blackened burger, crispy bacon and ooey-gooey American cheese in between a
warm and slightly toasted brioche bun was enough to satiate my hunger, even if the taste profile’s uniformity didn’t elevate it to a higher status.
The fries, in my opinion, were the best part of my meal because they embodied that perfect blend of crispy and fluffy, while the seasoning accentuated the flavor without diminishing the core qualities of the side dish.
Like any good fry, it carried that addictive quality where, even when full, you don’t want to stop picking at them.
Food aside, I do think Scoreboard’s strengths lie in its atmosphere and proximity to the Agawam and West Springfield border. They truly nail the traditional sports bar feel without relegating itself to a Murphy’s 2.0.
One day, I’ll have to visit on a Friday and Saturday night to really experience the local spot at its fullest capacity. Maybe by then the Red Sox are out of this early season slump.
The bacon cheeseburger and fries at Scoreboard Bar & Grille.
Reminder Publishing photo by Ryan Feyre
SOFTBALL
The Holyoke High Purple Knights softball team defeated the Chicopee Comp Colts 14-5 on April 22.
Senior Jessayra Maldonado gets on first base.
Zomaris Robles is greeted at home plate after scoring a two-run homer.
The Holyoke High Purple Knights softball team gather for a pre-game cheer.
Comp Colt senior Arianna Bird hits a high fly ball.
Chicopee Comp starting pitcher Faith Irwin tosses in a pitch.
Alexis Wojcik slides into home plate for a Comp run.
Comp senior Aleysha Ramos makes a catch to
the inning.
Kierstin St. Lawrence gets a high five from Alondre Colon Arce after scoring a run for Holyoke.
SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS
IN WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS
Presented by the Retirement Marketing Directors Association of Western Massachusetts
EAST VILLAGE PLACE
RIVER MILLS ASSISTED LIVING
GLENMEADOW
THE OBJECTIVE OF THE RMDA
We gather our talents and resources to better educate and inform the general public, families and professionals about senior communities in Western Massachusetts. In a cooperative spirit, we to better present our individual communities in a clear and unified manner to simplify the selection process.
DIFFERENT COMMUNITY TYPES
IL – Independent Living is the choice when you are ready to downsize to a more carefree lifestyle. With spacious apartments or cottages and an array of amenities, retirement living is active and worry-free.
AL – Assisted Living provides personalized supportive services in a home-like setting. Assistance is tapered to the individual’s needs with activities of daily living, but not skilled medical care.
AL, MC – Assisted Living with Memory Impaired Care gives your loved one with Alzheimer's or other dementia 24-hour supervision and days filled with activities and care by professionally trained staff.
CCRC – Continuing Care Retirement Communities provide independent living, plus additional services such as assisted living & skilled nursing care. A CCRC is an environment where a person can secure additional care and services on an “as needed” basis.
LC – Lifecare Communities offer the continuum of options, independent living, assisted living (with memory care) and skilled nursing. The initial set rate remains constant even if the resident’s needs change.
EAST LONGMEADOW
- THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY
144 Papers: St. Joseph Dr., Wisteria Ln., Pembroke Terr., Rockingham Cir., Dartmouth Ln., Partial - Prospect St., Chestnut St., Somers Rd.
129 Papers: Gerrard Ave., Holy Cross Cir., Kingston Ave., Lombard Ave., Nelson St., Roderick Ave., Partial- N. Main St.
166 Papers: Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only)
131 Papers: Shawmut St., Mayfair St., Westminster St., Thompkins Ave., Partial-Gates Ave
64 Papers: Anne St., Helen Cir., John St., Vadnais St., Converse Cir.
327 Papers: Melwood Ave., Chestnut St., Bluegrass Dr., Maple St., Powder Hill Rd., Fairhaven Dr.
174 Papers: Orchard Rd., Pine Grove Cir., Partial-Parker St., Porter Rd., Allen St.
150 Papers: Breezy Knoll Rd., Elm St., Mapleshade Ave., Pleasant St., Oak Bluff Cir.
LONGMEADOW - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY
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., Whitmun Rd., Woodmont Rd.
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
