HOLYOKE — The Holyoke City Council has appointed Cheryl Allen to become the new city auditor, tasking the official with overseeing municipal finances, conducting independent reviews of city spending and ensuring transparency and accountability across all departments.
The council spent its May 5 meeting discussing Allen, who was first interviewed during a Public Service Committee meeting on April 23. The committee then sent the appointment to the full City Council.
The position has been vacant since former City Auditor Tanya Wdowiak announced in November 2025 that she would resign to take another opportunity nearby.
Allen has a master’s degree in professional accounting from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand and a bachelor’s degree in law from Shanghai University. She has worked as a town accountant in two separate Massachusetts municipalities since 2021 and also has two years of experience using Munis.
Before becoming an accountant, Allen was a lawyer in China. She changed her career path because, “There are too many gray areas in the law field, and I like numbers that we know what we have. You cannot just try to get a shortcut of finding a gray area to do anything not ethical or not to mention illegal.”
As an accountant, she submitted required financial reports to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue in compliance with state guidelines, prepared yearend financial reports for internal and external stakeholders, prepared cash reconciliations with the treasurer monthly, ensured all
accounts were accurate and up to date, and coordinated and scheduled the annual audit.
Holyoke is currently updating its Finance Department through the recently signed Municipal Finance Modernization Act. Included in the act are newly created roles designed to strengthen internal controls, improve coordination across departments and ensure long-term financial stability.
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.
Allen said she saw the job posting in January, and after doing some research, she said she appreciated the work environment and the team the city had.
“I did my own research, and I appreciate the working environment, the team that we have here, and the support that the employ-
ees are getting from the committee [and] from the council,” Allen explained. “I do know Holyoke has actively been working on catching up, and I’m willing to be part of it and to speed up the process for the city.”
Allen said she plans to execute monthly reconciliations, rather than just quarterly, biannually or annually reconciliations, so any issues can be caught earlier.
City councilors spoke highly of Allen’s prior experience and how it can prevent any financial problems in the future.
City Councilor Nicole Maisonet stated, “She understands where our finances are and is willing to be part of the process to get Holyoke to be where it needs to be. I think she’s very well-rounded.”
City Councilor Patti Devine said, “This was a candidate that was extremely intelligent. The resume certainly spoke for itself. I think that Holyoke is extremely lucky to have this caliber of a candidate.”
City Councilors Howard Greaney and Linda Vacon said they had problems with the procedural aspect of the process, but both expressed their support for the candidate.
In her remarks, Allen said she would approach multiple audits with strict deadlines. “I think communication is always important. Communicate with auditors and say what do you need first; give me a list,” Allen said.
Allen said she would prioritize the most important items first. She shared that she is good at multitasking and can handle a high-stress environment. She is also a certified government accountant and is ready to take her certified public accountant exam if she chooses.
The City Council unanimously approved the appointment.
“Thank you all for your trust, and I will do my best to fulfill my role,” said Allen after she was appointed.
HOLYOKE
School Committee, HTA tentatively reach new contract
The Holyoke Teachers Association and Holyoke School Committee bargaining teams announced that they reached a tentative contract agreement.
Page 4
SOUTH HADLEY
Town eyes Sept. for another tax override vote
A special election may be set for Sept. 1.
Page 8
Newly appointed City Auditor Cheryl Allen talks to the City Council after the council approved her appointment on May 5.
Photo credit: Holyoke Media
STRM: Gonzalez reacts to Baystate’s merger with Mercy
By Ryan Feyre rfeyre@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Health’s recent acquisition of Mercy Medical Center, set to become official on Nov. 1, is making waves throughout the region as people scramble to prepare for what this will mean for health care in Western Massachusetts.
On the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me,” state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez sat down with hosts Dennis Hackett and Tyler Garnet to discuss what is on the horizon in light of this announcement and how he plans to gather more information about the merger.
As of press time, Gonzalez met with Baystate Health President and CEO Peter Banko to gain more clarity about the impact the merger may have and how the decision may affect personnel, services and the role Mercy has in the region. He shared that he’s also privately met with the speaker of the state’s House of Representatives and is working with the Department of Public Health and personnel at Baystate to determine the best path forward fol-
lowing the announcement.
“We’ve been trying to make sure that we are in tune to what are the needs of that potential merger, but also more importantly, upon getting the notification, what changes we may potentially see that can adversely affect the services of the personnel at Mercy,” Gonzalez said.
The Springfield Democrat foresees a bevy of potential health impacts hitting the area when this merger officially takes shape. He mentioned the birthing center closing at Mercy and the overflow of people in the region’s hospitals as potential concerns for people who need hospital services in a prompt manner.
“Sometimes we may have seen in the past a bulging of people going to emergency rooms across our hospital systems, and that may have a negative impact,” Gonzalez said. “And that’s a five-minute to 20-minute delay on providing medical attention to somebody in an emergency situation, [which] could, you know, cost lives.”
On the topic of whether he thinks the merger will prevent
Mercy from shutting down, a concern delegates and residents have had in the past, Gonzalez said that “mergers are like marriages,” and “many marriages end up in divorce and changes need to happen.”
“That’s why it’s important that we get answers directly on what they foresee are potential changes or challenges, and how can the state be impactful and find a system through this process,” Gonzalez said.
He noted that Baystate and Mercy are economic engines for the region “in so many ways,” whether it be through the birth centers or local pharmacy at Mercy. In that same breath, Gonzalez said the merger carries some potential drawbacks such as a loss of jobs, a problem he said will hopefully be addressed in future discussions with hospital leadership.
“We hope that whatever bargaining rights [doctors and nurses] have at Mercy can continue to remain,” Gonzalez said.
He shared that his job as a state representative is to serve the people, and although some are excited about the merger, he wants to
make sure it doesn’t negatively impact residents in our region.
“I believe that government is for the people, by the people,” Gonzalez said. “Now is the prime time to be echoing your sentiments as to what you feel is a need. And if we can attach a cost
to it that can be obtained, then we need to work on those efforts.” Readers can listen to the full podcast episode with Gonzalez by visiting thereminder.com/ our-podcast or searching “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform.
Fenton stages bid for District 8 seat on Governor’s Council
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield
City Councilor Michael Fenton has announced that he will run against incumbent Tara Jacobs to represent Western Massachusetts on the Governor’s Council, an influential body that reviews judicial appointments and advocates for the state’s judicial infrastructure needs.
The Governor’s Council is a body of eight members, presided over by the lieutenant governor. The council meets once a week to consent on the governor’s choice of judges, clerk magistrates and members of the Parole, Appel-
late Tax, Industrial Accident and Industrial Accident Reviewing boards, as well as public administrators, notaries and justices of the peace. Governor’s Council members also advise the governor on major outlays from the state treasury, such as building courthouses, and on pardons and commutations.
“The Governor’s Council is really a check on the governor,” Fenton said. “It’s the perfect complement of my skill set. This position really needs someone who has legal training to scrutinize judicial appointments.”
Fenton has been an attorney for 17 years, most recently with Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin. He is
also a professor at Western New England University School of Law. He added that his 14 years spent on the City Council have provided him with the experience to thoroughly vet decisions based on facts and information.
For Fenton, reviewing the governor’s selection of judges is among the most consequential decisions. The process of being named a judge is “rigorous and invasive,” he said. “It is deemed by many to be the highest accomplishment of an attorney.”
moments happen in these courtrooms,” Fenton said.
Because the districts are population-based, District 8 is the largest geographical district, consisting of 102 cities and towns west of Palmer. Fenton said the Governor’s Council provides “a chance to elevate Western Massachusetts people to more positions.” Fenton said no current members of the state Supreme Judicial Court, the Appellate Tax Board or the Parole Board hail from Western Massachusetts.
“The council should be doing more than just reacting,” Fenton said. “They should be recruiting
“Life-changing
He said candidates must demonstrate that they have the “highest ethical standards, the appropriate demeanor” and the requisite background.
State Rep. Carlos Gonzalez joined the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me.” Reminder Publishing submitted photo
Michael Fenton is a Springfield City Councilor and is running for Governor’s Council for District 8. Reminder Publishing file photo See FENTON on page 3
CHICOPEE
Lorraine’s receives $50,000 to combat food insecurity
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — In the midst of rampant food insecurity across the country, including here locally, Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry received a boost to help fight that very issue. On May 4, the organization accepted a $50,000 earmark from the state to augment its mission.
Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry Executive Director Kim Caisse, Mayor John Vieau, state Rep. Shirley Arriaga, and state Rep. Pat Duffy gathered to celebrate the funding that will aid food insecurity as the demand for food continues to rise.
Arriaga said the earmark is on behalf of the commonwealth — more specifically, the Chicopee delegation — to make sure those who are most vulnerable have something to eat.
“We are here to support Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen for all their hard work and to highlight the need that exists not only in Massachusetts, but primarily here in Western Massachusetts, in Chicopee,” Arriaga stated. “My constituents, our constituents, our folks are going hungry. Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen has seen their numbers increase; actually double in the past 12 months, and this is an earmark to help Lorraine’s continue to our most vulnerable and encourage them to come out.”
Caisse talked about how this
earmark will help supplement Lorraine’s overall mission to feed those who need it most.
“It is amazing because it will help us in so many of our programs,” Caisse stated. “Our pantry distribution, our general services, so wherever the need is, it’ll impact that.”
According to its leaders, Lorraine’s, located at 170 Pendexter Ave., strives to reduce the risk and effects that food insecurity has on families and individuals by investing in those they serve through collaboration with community partners to educate and raise awareness.
Lorraine’s offers hot meals every weeknight from 4-6 p.m. and pantry services Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They also have a mobile pantry that they offer Monday through Thursday from 4-5:30 p.m. for anyone who needs non-perishable items and fresh fruits and vegetables.
The organization serves close to 50,000 meals a year and also assists with food supplies to hundreds of families a month. Although Caisse said the $50,000 will help supplement a lot of its programs, it won’t last forever, and the need for donations and volunteers will always be apparent.
“The community has always been so helpful,” Caisse said.
“When there’s a need at Lorraine’s, people come out, they
always do, so we’re grateful for them, and this $50,000 is gonna make an impact, but it won’t be there for long, so there’s always the need after.”
Besides monetary donations, Caisse said the soup kitchen and pantry is always in need of rice, pasta, soup, peanut butter, potatoes, canned meats, spaghetti sauces, cereal, beans of all types, canned fruits and mac and cheese.
Food donations can be dropped
Comedy fundraiser to honor Conroy,
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — A night of laughter, love and purpose is set to take place at the Chicopee Elks Lodge, 431 Granby Road, on Saturday, May 16, as FunnyRaising Comedy Shows is partnering with Crystal Conroy and Ashton’s Army for a comedy night fundraiser.
This event will honor the life of Ashton Conroy, whose life was cut short by a rare and aggressive form of pediatric leukemia. After months of treatment, a remission and a devastating relapse, Ashton passed away on Feb. 28, 2025, just before his second birthday.
Now, in his honor, Crystal Conroy, Ashton’s mother, is turning the loss into action by raising awareness and funding for Blood Cancer United.
The show will help Conroy raise the necessary funds she needs to become a “Visionary of the Year” for Blood Cancer United, meaning all the money raised will benefit families affected by blood cancer while raising awareness for rare and underfunded diagnoses.
According to its website, “Visionary of the Year candidates form powerful fundraising teams
Fenton
Continued from page 2
members of the bar, so vacancies don’t occur, or if they do, they are as short as possible.”
As a member of the Governor’s Council, Fenton said, “Investing in our judicial infrastructure would be a top priority.” He referenced the courthouses in Pittsfield and Springfield as just two of those in need of review. Particularly close to home for Fenton is the replacement for the Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse, Springfield’s district court.
“When I ran for this position four years ago, it was a campaign issue. We still don’t have a site. We deserve a first-class hall
and compete in honor of two local blood cancer survivors. The individual who has raised the most funds during the 10-week campaign is awarded the prestigious title of ‘Visionary of the Year’ in their community.”
The show is rated R and is for audiences 21 years old and over. Doors and dinner begin at 5:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. Tickets are available at funnyraising.com, and guests can bring their own snacks.
FunnyRaising Comedy Shows
Founder and Comedian Jess Miller talked about the upcoming fundraiser that goes towards a good cause.
“We believe comedy can do more than entertain. It can bring people together when it matters most,” Miller said. “This night is about honoring Ashton, supporting Crystal, and showing what a community can do when it shows up for one another.”
The scheduled lineup is currently Miller, PJ Thibodeau and Jody Sloane. The lineup is subject to change without notice.
Miller is a Western Massachusetts based stand-up comedian, producer and philanthropist. She has performed at major venues across the country, includ-
of justice for Hampden County,” Fenton said. “For a while, the state refused to acknowledge there was a problem with the Springfield courthouse. Meanwhile, people are going to work in a sick building.”
Fenton said there are also smaller courthouses that should also be reviewed, including ones in Chicopee and Northampton. Aside from courthouses, he said, “If there are large projects that have gone unfunded — roads, bridges — I could use the position’s proximity to the governor to advocate for that.”
For Fenton, the position in Boston would be all about Western Massachusetts. He said, “If the Governor’s Council isn’t going to advocate for this, who will?”
off at Lorraine’s Monday through Friday. “Without the community and the volunteers, we wouldn’t be here, so it’s a huge impact,” Caisse said.
Due to the pause on SNAP benefits late last year and the rising cost of living, many people are becoming more food insecure and scrambling to find their next meal, according to local leaders.
“Many people struggle with food insecurity, and it is real,”
Vieau stated. “In 2026, on America’s 250th anniversary, that shouldn’t be happening. The need is big, it’s real, and [Lorraine’s] is very special. It serves people with respect and dignity, and [they] treat people fairly.”
“We don’t want no one going to sleep hungry,” Arriaga added. For more information or ways to donate and volunteer, readers can visit lorrainessoupkitchen.com.
support blood cancer families
ing Caroline’s on Broadway, the Laugh Factory in Hollywood and the New York Comedy Club, and won the Ladies Room Comedy
Festival in NYC. She is the founder of FunnyRaising Comedy ShowsTM, which uses live comedy events
to raise funds for individuals and organizations, helping to raise nearly $1 million for various nonprofits and local causes.
Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry receiving a $50,000 earmark from the state to help supplement its dinner and food pantry programs.
Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
School Committee,HTA tentatively reach new contract
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Following more than a year of back-and-forth discussions, the Holyoke Teachers Association and Holyoke School Committee bargaining teams announced that they reached a tentative contract agreement during their mediation session on May 6.
The contract agreements now need to be ratified by the respective union members before they go into effect.
Interim Superintendent Anthony Soto shared his thoughts on the two sides finally coming to a tentative agreement.
“These contract agreements are important milestones that will benefit our staff, students, families and the community as a whole,” Soto stated. “The tentative agreement reached on May 6 with the HTA reflects months of discussion, collaboration, and compromise, all aimed at reaching a fair agreement for Holyoke teachers while balancing the needs of students and the district’s financial position. It is a testament to the ambitious outcomes that can be achieved
while working together under local governance.”
This is the first contract bargained between the union and city officials since state control of the Holyoke Public Schools ended on July 1 2025.
The last HTA contract expired on June 30, 2025, and negotiations have been ongoing since February 2025. Teachers have worked nearly 300 days under the terms of an expired and outdated contract, a situation HTA President Nick Cream said has created stress and tension.
Key concerns were raised during an April 27 press conference, including 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 at the time, was still seeking 14 sick days, three weeks of family leave and removal of licensure from the pay scale.
With the tentative HTA agreement now in place, two remaining steps need to happen before it can be officially ratified: the HTA will schedule an information
session for members and then hold an official vote, and then the School Committee must also vote in favor of providing retroactive pay back to July 1, 2025.
According to Holyoke Public Schools, the tentative HTA contract agreement includes:
• More than a 20% increase in teacher salaries over three years (average increase of $12,750).
A starting salary of $55,000 for new teachers with a bachelor’s degree, which is the highest among nine nearby comparison districts, according to the city.
• A significantly reduced workday and work year.
• Enhanced sick, personal and other leave benefits.
Additional opportunities for teacher voice to inform decision-making.
Furthermore, the May 6 mediation session with the HTA produced compromises in six areas, which helped both bargaining teams reach the agreement:
• Reduction of annual teacher workdays to 185, which is down from the current 188
days per school year and a reduction from the previous tentative agreement of 186.
• Introduction of a third educational lane for those with two master’s degrees/certificates of advanced graduate study, while maintaining a fourth lane for professional licensure on the salary schedule.
• Seven days of leave for child bonding, which is up from five that were part of the district’s earlier proposal.
• Reduction of eligibility requirement to use catastrophic leave from five years to three years.
• Greater flexibility in using bereavement leave.
• Superintendent discretion to allow more categories of employees to be eligible for additional compensation in critical needs areas.
The collective bargaining page on the district website will be updated soon to reflect the terms included in the tentative agreement.
In a statement, the HTA said, “We needed a contract that would attract and retain great teachers
for Holyoke students. This contract makes us more competitive with surrounding school districts and marks an important step in regaining local control of our schools.”
Although the details have not yet been officially voted on, Mayor Joshua Garcia said in a statement on his Facebook that “This proposal is truly unprecedented. It is not only the strongest agreement in Holyoke’s history, but also stands as one of the best teacher contracts in the region, surpassing those of many surrounding communities.”
In a comment to Reminder Publishing, Cream said the tentative agreement includes a work day and work year commensurate with other districts, humane parental leave, wage increases and improvements to the salary structure, protected time for preparation and the creation of a labor-management health and safety committee.
He stated that members of HTA have already reviewed the contract as of press time and will schedule a ratification vote for the coming weeks.
Holyoke Medical Center earns an ‘A’ hospital safety grade
HOLYOKE — Holyoke Medical Center earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety. Leapfrog assigns an “A”, “B”, “C”, “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country using evidence-based measures of patient safety focused exclusively on errors, accidents, injuries and infections.
HOLYOKE — MIFA Victory Theatre proudly presents the Victory Players in Golden Age, a bold new concert series celebrating cutting-edge contemporary music in the United States. Join them on Thursday, May 28 at 7 p.m. at Holyoke’s De La Luz Soundstage for an evening of world premieres and innovative soundscapes.
“By centering stories of endurance, imagination, and cultural
“We are very proud of our team for earning two consecutive ‘A’ grades from The Leapfrog Group,” said Spiros Hatiras, president and chief executive officer of Holyoke Medical Center and Valley Health Systems.
“Holyoke Medical Center is dedicated to being a high-reliability organization, providing the very best quality care to area
exchange, the “Golden Age” series is working toward redefining the canon of contemporary music as one that is as multifaceted and dynamic as the country itself,” said Music Director Tianhui Ng.
The Sound of the “Golden Age” This series features new music from five of today’s most visionary composers: • Felipe Salles
residents, while empowering our employees through an environment valuing respect, leadership, belonging and emphasis on exceptional care.”
“An ‘A’ Grade is a strong sign that Holyoke Medical Center is deeply committed to protecting patients from harm,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “We commend the leadership, Board, cli-
• Emily Koh
• David Ibbett
• Charles Shadle
• Kiegan Ryan
Building on a long-standing commitment to championing diverse voices from across the Americas, the project commissions and presents works that reflect the sound of our time.
The performances are brought to life by the 2026 Victory Players ensemble:
nicians, staff and volunteers for the role each played in earning this distinction.”
The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade stands as the only hospital ratings program focused solely on preventable medical errors, infections and injuries that kill more than 500 patients a day in the United States. This program is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring. To explore Holyoke Medical Center’s full grade details and to find valuable tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit HospitalSafetyGrade.org. Connect with The Leapfrog Group on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram and stay informed through The Leapfrog Group newsletter.
• Nathan Ben-Yehuda (Piano)
• Linda Hwang (Cello)
• Giovanni A. Pérez (Flute)
• Robert Rocheteau (Percussion)
• Eric Schultz (Clarinet)
• Samuel Vargas (Violin)
With Tianhui Ng, music director
An immersive night out
This performance is held in collaboration with De La Luz Soundstage, an intimate cabaret space in the heart of Holyoke. A
project of Lighthouse Holyoke, the venue offers a full bar and food service, ensuring a vibrant and exciting atmosphere for this downtown event.
About the Victory Players
The Victory Players are a core project of MIFA and a vital component of the strategy to restore and reopen the historic Victory
Herald communities prepare for Memorial Day
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
Communities across Western Massachusetts and the country are ready to honor their deceased service men and women. Memorial Day events are set to take place in Chicopee, Holyoke and South Hadley on Monday, May 25.
Chicopee
The city of Chicopee will host its annual Memorial Day event on Monday, May 25, at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Plaza, 650 Front St. in front of Kevin A. Dupont Middle School.
Prior to May 25, Chicopee will have successfully flagged all its cemeteries with the help of many volunteers, according to Veterans Services Director Stephanie Shaw.
In the days leading up to Memorial Day, Chicopee’s local veterans organizations will visit Chicopee grammar and middle schools for a memorial service, a brief history of Memorial Day and placing of a wreath at school flag poles, followed by the pledge of allegiance and national anthem.
On Sunday, May 24, there will be a candlelight ceremony at 7 p.m. at the Vietnam Veterans’ Plaza on Chicopee Street hosted by the Vietnam Veterans of Western Massachusetts Chapter 111.
The public is invited to the 2026 Memorial Day activities on both the evening of May 24 and the morning of May 25.
The Chicopee Veterans’ Memorial and Patriotic Committee and the Chicopee Department of Veterans’ Services are asking that all Americans come together to recognize how fortunate we are to live in freedom and to observe a day of remembrance for those who have died in service.
Golden Age
Continued from page 4
Theatre. Each year, world-class musicians and composers are selected for an annual residency in Holyoke to develop new music around a central theme.
The music has been broadcast on GBH Boston and New England Public Media, with acclaimed performances at San
“As Memorial Day approaches, it is time to pause and consider the true meaning of this holiday,” Shaw said. “Memorial Day represents one day of national awareness and reverence, honoring those Americans who died while defending our Nation and its values. While we should honor these heroes every day for the profound contribution, they have made to secure our nation’s freedom, we should honor them especially on Memorial Day.”
Holyoke
The city of Holyoke’s annual Memorial Day observance will occur on Monday, May 25, at 10 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park at Hampden and Maple streets.
The group will first convene at the War Memorial Building at 310 Appleton St. Doors will open from 8:30-9:15 a.m. for refreshments and setup for a procession.
The parade will start at 9:30 a.m. and the procession will proceed to the Korean War Memorial by City Hall, down High Street to the Gold Star Memorial on Lyman Street, before ending at Veterans Memorial Park on Maple Street and Chestnut for the Memorial Day ceremony.
Residents are welcome to join and observe. American Legion Post 325, located at 22 Sycamore St., will host lunch from noon to 2 p.m.
Holyoke’s Veterans Services
Director Laddy Rua said, “It is truly an honor to help organize the Memorial Day event for the veterans and families of Holyoke. While there is a sense of pride in bringing the community together, the day itself carries a deeper meaning rooted in remembrance, reflection and gratitude. Memorial Day is a time to pause and hon-
Juan’s Casals Hall, Smith Recital Hall at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, The Fine Arts Center at UMass Amherst, Sprague Memorial Hall at Yale University, and local educational workshops. This May, the Players will perform in the Wilmington Concert Opera’s Loksi’ Shaali’ at the May 2026 Opera Conference in Delaware, presented by Opera America. Visit: victoryplayers.org/
or those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice. It’s important that every aspect of the parade and ceremony reflects that purpose, ensuring we recognize their service with the respect and dignity they deserve.”
South Hadley
South Hadley has a full series of Memorial Day activities planned, beginning with the annual placement of flags on veterans’ graves and culminating in two town ceremonies on Memorial Day itself.
South Hadley maintains six cemeteries with approximately 5,000 veterans’ graves. Four of the smaller cemeteries will be flagged during the week of May 18-22 by local youth organizations.
A public flagging event will happen on Saturday, May 16, for Mater Dolorosa Cemetery and Notre Dame Cemetery, which together contain more than 2,600 veterans’ graves.
On Monday, May 25, South
Hadley is hosting a Civil War monument ceremony at the Town Commons, 20 College St., at 8:45 a.m. The program will begin at approximately 9 a.m.
Immediately following this ceremony, attendees will proceed to Town Hall, located at 116 Main St. for the main program at 10 a.m. This year’s theme is “From Lexington to Today — 250 Years of Service and Sacrifice” and the ceremony will focus on honoring South Hadley’s fallen and missing across all eras. The program will highlight the town’s role from the founding of the nation to the present.
“It’s an honor to put together this year’s Memorial Day events for our veterans and their families. With the nation marking its 250th anniversary, it was important to me that our ceremonies reflect both South Hadley’s history and the sacrifices made across generations,” South Hadley Veterans Services Director Christopher Plotniak said.
The Chicopee High Pacers defeated the Pathfinder RVT Pioneers 12-0 at their May 1 game played at Szot Park.
Sydney Irish tries for a bunt early in the game.
Chicopee's Adeline Olbrych connects with a low pitch.
Raelyn Loud on the mound for Chicopee High.
Pacer senior Lorraine Olbrych taps out a bunt.
Adeline Olbrych makes a safe steal at second base.
Raelyn Loud dodges an inside pitch while Jordyn Kazeroid practices on deck.
Aviah Blankenship blasts a two run homer.
South Hadley eyeing Sept. for another tax override vote
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
SOUTH HADLEY — Residents may once again be asked to pay more in taxes in light of the fraught budget situation that the town is currently facing. On May 5, the South Hadley town administration and Selectboard announced that they might set a special election for Tuesday, Sept. 1, to see if voters would approve a tax override to help save city services.
Since the failed $9 million and $11 million tax override votes took place on April 14, the town and Selectboard have continued to look at options to save proposed positions and service cuts, and look at ways to save money and balance the budget.
During the May 5 Selectboard meeting, Town Administrator Lisa Wong presented the board with four potential dates for a tax override vote: June 23, Sept. 1, Nov. 3 or April 13, 2027.
The Selectboard voted that it prefers the Sept. 1 date for the override vote, but they have until July 27 to make it official. There
was also a possibility of holding the special election on June 23, but the board had to approve that date during the May 5 meeting. They didn’t.
The proposals from Wong included a $3.5 million tax override, but the exact amount hasn’t been finalized yet. Wong said there are still things the town needs to do in the meantime to figure out before deciding on an override tax amount. The Selectboard also discussed whether to use free cash to help close the town’s budget gap.
The Sept. 1 date is in line with the primary election. Wong said the September vote will have the same effect bill-wise as the June date. Bills affected in fiscal year 2027 include December/January and March/April.
Wong said that if the Selectboard waited until the next Annual Town Meeting in April 2027 for the special election, it wouldn’t raise any taxes in 2027, and the override would only last “probably two years, maybe, or maybe a year and a half.”
The town administrator said holding the special election on
Nov. 3 would not work because it would coincide with the local/ general election and negate any of the contingent budget votes at
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.
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
Caroline D. Archambault
Helen M. Biglin
Yvette Harrington
Dennis J. Lajeunesse
Jeannine M. Martell
Loraine E. Pothier
Gregory J. Pray Sr.
Fletcher D. Ramsey
Barbara M. Skiba
Michael J. Soja Jr. EAST LONGMEADOW
Sally A. Gozzi
Douglas P. Howie
Shirley Eleanor LaPolice
Larry F. Mathisen
HAMPDEN
Marcia Ronzoni Lefort
HOLYOKE
James E. Pease Jr.
Robert L. Cournoyer
Christine A. Dearborn
Lalta “William, Bill, Brother Willie” Nepal
Rodger E. Nichols
Barbara F. Randall LONGMEADOW
Anne Marie Iellamo
LUDLOW
Rita Hogan
Sandra Lee Kulig
SOUTH HADLEY
Karen Adams
Alexandra L. Brannan “Ali” Brunelle
Dorothy N. Schenker
SPRINGFIELD
Barbara J. Cowdrey
Lauriana Lavallee (Lalli)
Joanne Elizabeth Moran
Peter J. Salier
George E. Sampson
Richard A. Stasiowski
Bruce Williams Jr.
WILBRAHAM
Marygene Byrd
Jeffrey W. Hulbert
Margaret M. “Marge” Rannenberg
Marjorie H. Weeks
James E. “Jim” Wilkinson Sr.
Annual Town Meeting.
“There’s just not enough time between a vote on that date and the ability to include that into the bills for 2027,” Wong stated. “Should you want an override to pass in 2027 that includes raising money in 2027, it is split over the bills that are in the fiscal year.”
The Selectboard members were in favor of the Sept. 1 date because it gives them time to take a more in-depth look at the budget while the town attempts some financial progress without relying on an override.
“That gives us some time to implement some of the recommendations from the budget task force, look at other areas where we could strategically try and make some cuts and possibly show some tangible progress to the town by Sept. 1,” Selectboard member Priscilla Marion said.
Selectboard member Renee Sweeney explained that she liked the September date because it gives time for any residents who are confused to get the clarification they need.
“I think a longer timeline, less compressed, might be better,”
Sweeney stated.
Selectboard Chair Jeff Cyr was in favor of the April 13, 2027 timeline because, in September, the town will not know where the free cash has been certified. It is not certified until Oct. 15. He added that he was in favor of an override and wished he had fought harder for a lower tax override the first time around.
“No doubt we need an override. We need something. We need to continue the continuity of this community.” Cyr stated. “I said it once; I apologize that I didn’t fight for the lower amount because I honestly believe it probably would’ve passed with a [$3 million or a $5 million or $6 million tax override].”
South Hadley is still discussing adding approximately $1.5 million in free cash to the school budget. The town voted on the budget and other articles on May 13 at Town Meeting.
The Selectboard emphasized that it will continue to work with the Budget Task Force, reach out to the state legislature and give updates to the town about progress after Town Meeting.
The Selectboard discusses another potential tax override vote during its May 5 meeting.
Photo credit: SHCTV15
DINING ENTERTAINMENT
New theater group introduces itself with first production
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
EASTHAMPTON — In an effort to bring fresh, queer and gender diverse stories to the local theater scene, a new theater group, Why’s It Gotta Be?, has formed here in Western Massachusetts.
The group, which started in the fall, is gearing up for its first production, the dark comedy “Legoland,” which will run at CitySpace from May 22-31.
Founder, actor and president of Why’s It Gotta Be?, Devin Dumas, told Reminder Publishing that he, along with fellow peers who are now on the board of the new group, saw a gap in consistent productions related to queer and gender diverse stories and thought, why not fill this need with a fresh new group committed to offering just that?
“We really just wanted to create a consistent space for queer theater, for new theater, for gender diverse theater that we weren’t really seeing in the area,” said Dumas. “And that’s not at anyone else, there’s absolutely wonderful theater in the area, like K&E does great stuff, Easthampton Theater Company does great stuff, Exit 7 does great stuff. But some of us found ourselves in a position where we always seemed to be waiting to see who would announce the next queer-based show, or the next gender diverse show, or the next new thing, rather than something that had been done several times before. So, I grabbed a couple people that I was close with and was like, ‘hey why don’t we just make something that’s consistent for that,’ so we did.”
Dumas explained that he wanted the mission and goals of the group to be clear and present in its name.
“I came up with it because I’m 27, and I’m very vocal about wanting to see queer relationships expressed healthy in media, and I was often asked, ‘Oh, well, why’s it gotta be gay? Why’s it gotta be queer? Why’s it gotta be trans? Why’s it gotta be all these things?’ And you get so tired of hearing that to a point that it’s almost like how queer used to be a slur and we reclaimed it as an identity. I’m almost reclaiming that for us now. You can’t tell us ‘Why’s it gotta be’ anymore because that’s
the whole point now. ‘Why’s it gotta be queer?’ Because that’s our whole thing,” said Dumas.
With that said, Dumas and the group feel that the best way to kick things off is with a production of Jacob Richmond’s dark comedy, “Legoland.” The play tells the story of Penny and Ezra Lamb, siblings who have been home-schooled on a hippie colony their whole lives and dying to get out.
After a failed attempt at connection in Walmart, the commune is busted, and the siblings — each seething with repression — are enrolled in a Catholic private school where they are instant social outcasts. A cross-continental adventure ensues for the two siblings through this irreverently dark story bursting with originality, bringing audiences along for the ride in an engaging fashion as the Lamb siblings are prying for connection any way they can get it.
“Legoland” opens at CitySpace on Friday, May 22, at 7:30 p.m. The rest of the shows will take place on May 23 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., May 24 at 2 p.m, May 29 at 7:30 p.m., May 30 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and on May 31 at 2 p.m. The show contains adult language, according to organizers.
General tickets are $25 and available for purchase online at wigbtheater.org/legoland. During the run on May 26 at 7:30 p.m., the group will also host a fundraiser called Mid-Run Drag Trivia night inside CitySpace to support the newly formed group.
Dumas is directing “Legoland” and shared that this play has always been a production he wanted to be a part of.
“I actually said I didn’t want to do ‘Legoland’ first because I knew people knew it was something that I really, really wanted to do. I didn’t want to seem like I started this theater group so I could do ‘Legoland.’ But then ... we decided that ‘Legoland’ from a public-facing standpoint was the most approachable title out of anything,” explained Dumas. “The play has nothing to do with Legos, but we figured a dark comedy that really gets a little gritty and is just fast paced backto-back-to-back, and has this cool title ‘Legoland,’ that draws people in, and we can just make this
really colorful, fun, inviting and interactive immersive show. We just decided, let’s try that.”
Julia Adamo and Terrance Peters are starring in this production as Penny and Ezra Lamb. Both actors have worked with Dumas before and with some of the other local groups as well. Both shared that they are eager to be part of the first production from the group.
“The wonderful thing about both the Massachusetts and Connecticut community theater is it’s a very small world, and so I had known Devin a little,” said Peters. “When I’d seen this new group that a lot of folks that I respect and like working with were very supportive, and then [I] saw they were doing ‘Legoland,’ a script that has been on my radar for so long and is very rarely done, even though I think it’s such a fantastic script, I decided to put my foot through.”
Peters said he is a big fan of any group that puts its community first, and added that when he learned about the story behind the group’s name and mission statement, he knew Why’s It Gotta Be? is committed to creating a welcoming environment.
Adamo, also a board member for the group, shared similar sentiments about the opportunity to be a part of the group’s first production. Having worked with Dumas through a production he directed through Exit 7, Adamo considers Dumas a great connector in the local theater space.
“He has this remarkable way of just bringing people together and creating such a sense of community around queer art that I was like anything I can do with Devin I want to do,” she said.
Adamo said that Dumas’ vision for the group is meaningful as it adds a niche within the larger and overall healthy local theater scene in the area.
“There is such a robust theater scene in the Western Mass. area, and we’re really grateful for that, and there’s so many enthusiastic performers, and there are so many amazing productions going on, so it’s a really wonderful and supportive community with a lot of people who are doing really
cool, really fresh and interesting work,” Adamo said. “But the idea that we can find our niche within this larger scene while consistently prioritizing really fresh and diverse work, just feels really exciting.”
Future goals Dumas already has long-term visions for what is possible for the new cadre. Specifically, he hopes to one day purchase sound and lighting equipment for the cadre, offer stipends to makers and artists, produce in-house and audio film productions, and ultimately secure a space to utilize for performances and rehearsals to outsource to other developing and independent artists.
Dumas said that he hopes the group can add a multimedia aspect to their work, as well. Along with his background in theater, Dumas also has a background in audio drama storytelling and hopes to add that to their repertoire.
“I really view audio drama as a form of theater art, film as a form of theater art. I’d really like to see us at some point further down the road be able to reach out to people who are interested, if not performing on stage, perhaps performing behind a screen or behind a microphone, and creating space to tell fresh stories, queer
stories, different stories in that format,” Dumas added. “We’re doing this for us, we’re doing this to share art, we’re doing this to tell stories, we’re doing this for audiences. We’re not doing this to make fortunes, we’re doing this to share visions, so if we can help other artists by providing a space five, 10, 15 years down the line, that’s the goal too.”
In the meantime, as the group grows from its infancy, Dumas hopes to facilitate more shows. Simultaneously, the plan is to keep an eye out for a permanent home, hopefully in Easthampton or Northampton, but the group is open to any opportunities in the region.
“We definitely are gravitating a little bit more towards Northampton and Easthampton when we do events just because there’s a lot of performance space and a lot of people that we feel will resonate with these stories, but we’re open to anywhere within the area,” said Dumas. “We really hope that we can get audiences in that these stories resonate with, but also performers that these stories resonate with, because we do it for both of them. And just really hoping we can continue with our long-term creative goals as well.”
To learn more about Why’s It Gotta Be? visit wigbtheater.org.
Terrance Peters (left) and Julia Adamo (right) star in Why’s It Gotta Be? Theater Group’s first production, “Legoland.”
