HOLYOKE — Future data centers are banned in the city of Holyoke after the City Council voted 9-4 in favor of a zoning ordinance amendment during its council meeting on June 16.
The conversation around data centers has run rampant throughout the city of Holyoke over the past couple of weeks, but especially on June 11 and 16, when the Holyoke City Council Ordinance Subcommittee and full City Council discussed a proposed definition and zone change at their respective meetings.
The conversation began when a proposed data center at the former Hampden Paper Complex on Water Street sparked debate after the City Council discussed a zoning amendment to ban the facilities during its June 2 meeting.
The original zoning ordinance amendment order was filed on Jan. 20, and the first public hearing took place on Feb. 4. The second and final public hearing took place and eventually closed on April 14. It was then voted out of committee and sent to the full council for a vote, which happened on June 2.
The data center proposal on Water Street was expected to use about 20 megawatts of power, which is enough to supply thousands of homes. Mayor Joshua Garcia also stated that it is believed that the proposed $200 million private investment would have generated $2 million plus annually in real property taxes. It would also have put a long-vacant property back on the tax rolls and help improve a section of Water Street that is blighted, Garcia argued.
The project, however, will no longer continue after this council vote.
After a lengthy debate on
June 2, the zone change amendment was voted to be sent back to the City Council Ordinance Subcommittee.
Before the June 11 Ordinance Subcommittee meeting, Holyoke residents and community advocates gathered outside City Hall to voice their opposition to the data center development on Water Street. Following the outdoor demonstration, residents attended the Ordinance Subcommittee meeting to show their support for a data center project ban.
Holyoke resident Susan Van Pelt voiced her opposition to data centers in a statement.
“Around the country, we’ve seen data center developers claim one thing and deliver something else. They’re using huge amounts of electricity and water while generating pollution in the form of noise, heat and chemicals,”
Van Pelt stated.
After over two hours of discussion, the subcommittee passed a motion to move the ban
language forward that defines a data center, strikes out language from the definition for warehouse that currently allows data centers and prohibits data centers in the table of uses in the city.
The subcommittee also discussed language included in the original amendment to enact a two-year moratorium on the application for building new data centers, defined in section 2.0 of the Holyoke zoning ordinances. The motion failed 3-2 but was still presented to the City Council on June 16.
City Councilor Linda Vacon argued that the moratorium language that was provided by the chair was never requested by the subcommittee or seen by the subcommittee until a couple hours before the meeting, which violates the city’s rules, she argued.
According to the new amendment, a data center is now considered “A building or series of buildings that houses and supports the high-performance serv-
credit: Holyoke Media
ers, storage systems, networking equipment, and related computing infrastructure and equipment necessary for storing, processing and distributing data and applications.”
The definition for warehouse previously stated, “A building used primarily for the storage of goods and materials, for distribution, but not for sale on the premises. including the storage of data and digital information.” The new amendment removes “including the storage of data and digital information.”
The amendment also changes section 4.3 table of principal uses to add the word “no” in the chart prohibiting the use of data centers in any zone in the city.
Section 3 of the amended ordinance states that the Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center, which has operated in Holyoke since 2012, can continue as a permitted use
CHICOPEE
City Council appropriates funds for tax relief
The city will use $3 million in an effort to provide tax relief for its residents.
Page 7
HOLYOKE
Molina fills Ward 7 seat on School Committee
Latitia Molina will join the Holyoke School Committee after the committee and City Council hosted a joint meeting on June 17 to finalize her appointment.
10
The City Council discusses a zoning ordinance amendment that bans future data center development in Holyoke during its June 16 meeting.
Photo
Community Legal Aid receives $200K to battle housing discrimination
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Seven Massachusetts organizations that work to expand access to fair housing protections recently received funding from the first round of the Healey-Driscoll administration’s Fair Housing Trust Fund awards. One of those organizations, Community Legal Aid, received $200,000.
Community Legal Aid provides free civil legal services to low-income and elderly residents. The organization serves people from Worcester County to the
New York state border. The organization has six main offices, including ones in Springfield, Northampton and Greenfield, and two satellite offices, one of which is in Holyoke. While legal aid is needed in every community, Gabriel Fonseca, senior supervising attorney for the Fair Housing Project, said the greatest number of cases come from Springfield and Worcester.
Aside from housing, Community Legal Aid provides legal help with elder law, family law and domestic abuse, education law, veterans services, education and reentry after incarceration.
The state funding, which is administered through the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, will allow Community Legal Aid to “continue enforcing housing law,” said Fonseca. The organization sees cases based on a variety of housing issues, including racial harassment, refusal to rent due to family status, lead paint removal and disability discrimination. Housing discrimination can also be based on religious creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, marital status, genetic information, veteran status and source of income.
“The landscape of housing funding is in flux,” Fonseca said.
“At the federal level, what we’ve seen in that funding for fair housing is under threat.” While no direct grants have been pulled, he said that the organization has been made aware that at least one passthrough grant, awarded to the state and then distributed to organizations, is no longer available.
Community Legal Aid is completely funded through grants and donations, so shrinking funding sources is a major concern for it.
“Massachusetts is hustling to build more homes in every region, but we need to also make
sure that every resident has a fair chance to access it,” Gov. Maura Healey said in a press release. “At a time when the Trump Administration is stepping back from fair housing enforcement, Massachusetts is stepping up to protect residents from discrimination and expand access to housing. These first Fair Housing Trust Fund awards will help organizations across our state continue the important work of making housing more fair, accessible and equitable for everyone.”
To learn more about Community Legal Aid, call 855-252-5342 or visit communitylegal.org.
Holyoke Community Baby Shower returns to Holyoke Media June 27
HOLYOKE — Families, caregivers, community organizations, and service providers are invited to attend the annual Holyoke Community Baby Shower on Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Holyoke Media, One Court Plaza, in Holyoke.
The Holyoke Community Baby Shower is a free community event designed to connect expectant parents, new parents, and families with young children to vital resources, services and support systems available throughout
Data Center
Continued from page 1
up to 12 megawatts.
During the June 16 City Council meeting, the City Council discussed the motion that the Holyoke Zoning Ordinance be amended to add a definition of “data center” as a use, and to clarify that this use is not allowable in any zoning district in the city.
Multiple residents protested outside City Hall before the City Council meeting, before using the public comment portion of the meeting to express their concerns
Western Massachusetts.
At a time when many families face challenges accessing health care, housing, child care, mental health services, and other essential supports, the Holyoke Community Baby Shower serves as a welcoming one-stop resource event where families can learn about and connect directly with organizations dedicated to helping them thrive before, during and after birth.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet representatives from organizations providing in-
with data centers. Many people against the data centers argued that the centers will adversely affect the environment and residents, while supporters said a ban could hurt the city’s economic development opportunities.
City Council President Tessa Murphy-Romboletti and City Councilor Meg Magrath-Smith filed an order to establish, by ordinance, a temporary ad-hoc committee to study and provide an analysis about the potential impacts of commercial data center development in Holyoke.
The committee, which would expire June 30, 2027, would make recommendations to the City
formation and support related to prenatal care, postpartum wellness, maternal and infant health, mental health services, housing assistance, MassHealth, WIC, lactation and feeding support, child development, early intervention, parenting education, family wellness, community programs, and other resources that contribute to healthy families and positive outcomes for children.
“The goal of the Holyoke Community Baby Shower is to ensure that every family knows
Council regarding potential zoning and permitting requirements.
Based on the order, the committee would include one member from Holyoke Gas and Electric, Holyoke Water Works — or a member of the Water Commission — a member of the Massachusetts Green High Performing Computing Center, one member of the Planning Board, Conservation Commission, Office of Planning and Development, a community member or resident appointed by the City Council president and a member of the City Council.
The City Council approved sending the ad-hoc committee
they are supported and that help is available,” said organizer Doreen Reyes. “We want participants to leave feeling informed, empowered, connected, and equipped with the resources they need to care for themselves and their children.”
In addition to resource tables and educational opportunities, attendees can enjoy refreshments, giveaways, raffles, and opportunities to engage with local organizations and community partners. The event also fosters collabora-
proposal to the Ordinance Subcommittee for further discussion.
Benjamin Marshall, co-managing director of Chestnut River Power and Infrastructure, responded via email to Reminder Publishing about Holyoke’s recent data center ban approval and the company’s proposed data center site on Water Street.
“We respect the City Council’s decision and the residents who made their voices heard. This was a democratic process, and while we’re disappointed in the outcome, we take it seriously. Our proposal for 100 Water Street was always a modest one, a roughly 20-megawatt facility re-
tion among agencies and service providers working to improve maternal, infant and family health outcomes across the region. Whether someone is expecting a baby, parenting a young child, supporting a loved one through pregnancy or postpartum, or simply looking to learn more about available services, all are welcome to attend.
Community organizations, volunteers, sponsors and donors interested in supporting the event are encouraged to participate.
using the long-vacant Hampden Papers mill, powered by Holyoke’s own clean hydroelectricity and designed to pay its own way without raising residents’ rates,” Marshall stated. “We believe a project of that scale and design was very different from the large data centers driving national concern, and our hope was simply to put accurate information about this specific project in front of the community. We came to Holyoke because of its industrial heritage and its clean power, and we still believe in this city. Our door remains open if Holyoke ever wishes to continue the conversation.”
Hello Summer
More Than Bikes Around Town
By Tina Lesniak Correspondent
For many residents of the Pioneer Valley, ValleyBike is a familiar sight: rows of bright bicycles parked and waiting for their next rider.
But for the people behind the system, ValleyBike represents something larger than a ride across town. It is part of a long-term effort to expand transportation options, reduce dependence on cars and connect communities throughout Hampshire and Hampden counties.
“ValleyBike Share solves several problems for the area’s residents, but primarily, we are proud to be an accessible, affordable, and convenient transportation option for the Pioneer Valley community,” said Liat Perlman, specialist for community and partner engagement for Drop Mobility, the company that operates the system.
ValleyBike’s electric pedal-assist bicycles serve residents, workers, students and visitors throughout the region. The goal, Perlman said, is to provide an alternative transportation option for people who may not own a vehicle, want to reduce their environmental impact or simply want a more active way to travel.
“We aim to be an alternative and active transportation option for those who may not have a car, want to reduce their carbon foot-
print, or want to add some fun activity to their daily commute,” Perlman said.
ValleyBike operates across a network of smaller municipalities and college campuses spread throughout the Pioneer Valley. Despite the different geography, usage patterns remain surprisingly consistent.
“Bikeshare provides transportation regardless of the geography,” Perlman said. “The average trip length is around 1.5 miles, and almost all trips end in a different location from where they started, indicating real transportation.”
In the Pioneer Valley, riders also have the ability to travel between municipalities, something that distinguishes the system from many urban bike-share networks.
Since relaunching in 2024 under Drop Mobility’s management, ValleyBike has recorded more than 60,000 rides and served over 12,000 unique users. More than 1,300 riders have purchased equity memberships, which cost just $4 per month for income-qualified residents.
Perhaps more telling, she added, is the fact that ridership continues throughout the year.
“As the system operates year-round, we see riders taking advantage of ValleyBike even on the coldest days, indicating that residents in the area truly rely on the system for daily transportation,” Perlman said.
The system’s impact is particularly visible in Springfield, where ValleyBike has become another transportation option for residents navigating the city’s neighborhoods.
Andrew Strniste, Springfield’s director of community planning, said the network has created opportunities for residents who may not own a vehicle or have reliable access to public transportation.
“ValleyBike has opened opportunities for Springfield residents who may not own a car or have reliable public transit by allowing users to move throughout the western part of the city through the various neighborhoods, from Sumner Avenue in Forest Park to Baystate Medical in the North End to AIC in Mason Square,” Strniste said.
With approximately 20 stations throughout Springfield, the system provides another way for residents to travel within the city.
“One notable observation is that one of
Submitted
ValleyBike bicycles await riders near Springfield’s Forest Park Middle School.
ValleyBike Share
Continued from page 1
the stations that is in high demand is Union Station, both as a beginning destination and ending destination,” he said. “This reinforces the idea that Union Station is serving as a successful multi-modal transportation destination in the city.”
Other heavily used stations include those near the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, Mill Street and Belmont Avenue, and Mercy Hospital. According to Strniste, the popularity of those locations suggests the bike share system is helping residents access jobs, services and attractions throughout Springfield.
“The new bikes that are being used in Springfield are lighter, more modern, pedal-assist e-bikes, which makes for a smoother and easier ride for the user,” he said. “We hope these equipment upgrades, combined with surrounding communities continuing to grow the network, will allow users of the bike share program to move more easily in and out of Springfield and throughout the region.”
Still, creating a truly car-light lifestyle in Western Massachusetts remains a challenge.
Perlman pointed to several obstacles, including long distances between communities, inconsistent bicycle infrastructure, limited public transit options and the region’s weather.
“Some of the challenges this region faces in terms of car-light living include weather, additional bike parking needs around apartment complexes, distance between towns, gaps of public transportation in the Hilltowns, inconsistent biking infrastructure between municipalities, and insufficient bus routes,” Perlman said.
The system’s continued growth has depended on partnerships among municipalities, colleges and regional organizations.
“Partnerships from all participating municipalities have been crucial to the success and expansion of the ValleyBike Share system, as well as with universities in the area, such as UMass Amherst,” Perlman said.
Recent grant funding has also provided a major boost. ValleyBike received a $1.5 million grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center to expand access for equity members and support operations.
Another $1.5 million grant from the Massachusetts Department of
Transportation will fund additional electric bicycles and help cover operating expenses.
Looking ahead, ValleyBike leaders envision both deeper service within existing communities and expansion into new ones.
“In the short term, our vision is to increase the number of stations within the existing communities and expand the number of equity pass users,” Perlman said. “Our long-term vision is to launch into new adjacent communities and install more stations, making the system even more useful for daily commuting and recreation.”
For Drop Mobility Chief Operating Officer Dipesh Dar, the mission extends beyond transportation itself.
“Programs like ValleyBike are about more than just transportation; they’re about creating more connected, accessible, and vibrant
communities,” Dar said.
“We’re excited to expand this system and continue to provide the Pioneer Valley community with a sustainable way to move around the region.”
Summer Concert schedule
Chicopee
Aldenville Summer Concerts
Concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Aldenville Commons on Grattan Street.
Wednesday, July 1 — Axis
Tuesday, July 7 — Brad Shepard
Tuesday, July 14— Jimmy Mazz
Tuesday, July 21 —
Ken Morr Band
Wednesday, July 22 — Dave Colucci Show
Tuesday, July 28 —Richie Mitnik, Ethel Lee and Joe Saimeri
Tuesday, Aug. 5 — Union Jack British Invasion Band
Wednesday, Aug. 5 — Nice Shirt Band
Tuesday, Aug. 11 — The ‘60s Experience
East Longmeadow
Rotary Concert Series
Free concerts at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays at Mapleshade Elementary School, 175 Mapleshade Ave. Concession stand will open at 6 p.m.
July 3 — Trailer Trash and laser light show
July 8 — Union Jack British Invasion Band
July 15 — 7 Roads
July 22 — Brass Attack
July 29 — The ‘60s Experience
Aug. 5 — Above the Treeline
Aug. 12 — Pride Falls
Aug. 19 — Rain date, if needed
South Hadley
Village Commons
Summer Concert Series
Free concerts at the Town Common, Thursdays from 6:30-8 p.m. Rain date is the following Sunday.
July 2 — Sound Bridges
July 9 — The Berkshires
July 16 — The Willies
July 23 — Blue Devil Bluez ‘rocknsoul”
July 30 — Union Jack British Invasion Band
Aug. 6 — Cotonwood
Aug. 13 — Midlife Crisis Band
Aug. 20 — Jimmy Mazz
Aug. 27 — Berkshire Hills
Music Academy
Buttery Brook Summer Concert Series
Friday night concerts at the Bandshell in Buttery Brook Park, 123 Willamansett St. Concerts begin at 5 p.m. Food and beverages available; no outside alcohol. No dogs per park rules. For more info, visit facebook.com/butterybrookpark.
June 26 — Mid-Life Crisis
July 10 — Next J. E. N. Band
July 17 — King Kountry
July 24 — Cottonwood
July 31 — Lindsey LaBe
Aug. 7 — Blue Devil Bluez
Aug. 14 — Acousticca
Aug. 21 — Dr. C and the Feel Goods
Aug. 28 — The Berkshires
Sept. 4 — Moos & the High Tops
Sept. 11 — Full Circle
Springfield
Forest Park Summer Concert Series
Free Thursday night concerts in the Forest Park Amphitheater. All concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. Attendees can enter Forest Park through the Sumner Avenue or the Route 5 entrances for free after 5 p.m. In case of rain, concerts will be moved to the Carriage House tent.
July 9 — Dee Reilly
(Carriage House)
July 30 — Petty Larceny Band
Aug. 6 — Skynard Hatchet
Aug. 13 — Zac N Freid
Aug. 20 — Jake Manzi Band
Aug. 27 — Unforgettable Fire
Sept. 3 — Bennie and the Jets
Sept. 11 — Floyd Patterson Band
MGM Free Music Fridays
Live outdoor music at the MGM Springfield Plaza every Friday through Oct 23, from 7:30-9 p.m. Plaza opens at 6 p.m. Beverages at the casino’s two outdoor bars or White Lion Brewery’s outpost, food at an on-site restaurant or one of the weekly local food trucks.
June 25 — Billy and the Jets
July 3 — Heartlands
July 10 — Blizzard of OZ
July 17 — Simply the Bess
July 24 — Malado
July 31 — Raquel & Su
Aug. 7 — Back in Black
Aug. 14 — The Warped Band
Aug. 21— Below Deck-
Aug. 28 — E Street Shuffle
Sept. 4 — Moondance
Sept. 11 — Aquanett
Oct. 9 — Cathedral
Oct. 16 — Dookie
Oct. 23 — Johnny Six Gun
The Landing Summer Concert Series
Located adjacent to the Springfield Convention Center Carpark and MassMutual Center, every Thursday from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Food trucks, drinks and lawn games.
July 2 — Carol Devine & The Mighty Fine
July 9 — Jarreau Pitts
July 16 — Now That’s ‘90s
July 23 — La Era Del Mambo
July 30 — Trailer Trash
Aug. 6 — Tafari
Aug. 13 — Brass Attack
Aug. 20 — Whiskey Traveler
Aug. 27 — Deep River Ramblers
Wilbraham
Fountain Park Concert Series
Located at 883 Tinkham Road in Wilbraham. Concerts take place at 6:30 p.m. on the lawn. Concerts are free; $5 parking donation per car unless you have a season pass. The concert lineup had not been completed by press time. Visit explorefountainpark.com/eventslist/2026-summer-concert-2 for updated information.
For a complete list of summer concerts in the area, visit thereminder.com.
Compiled by Debbie Gardner
City Council appropriates funds to provide tax relief
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — Several days after Mayor John Vieau submitted his recommended fiscal year 2027 budget, the City Council unanimously approved a pair of mayor’s orders, including one that provides relief to Chicopee taxpayers, during its June 16 meeting.
One of the orders approved by the council includes $3 million for the reduction of the fiscal year 2027 tax levy from the city’s undesignated fund balance free cash account. Vieau, who acknowledged that other surrounding communities are struggling in their budget seasons, said that the $3 million in free cash will alleviate some of the burdens on Chicopee taxpayers. In his remarks to the council, he gave a shoutout to his finance team, which meets almost every two weeks to talk about the finances of Chicopee.
“The great news is that we’re able to take free cash and use that as tax relief. In other communities right now, they’re suffering, looking for Proposition 2 1/2
overrides, and we’re looking to reduce our taxes,” Vieau stated.
“People are having a hard time right now making ends meet with inflation, shrinkflation, all your bills are going up, expenses are high, and I couldn’t see a better way than contributing towards tax relief.”
Vieau also explained that the city is below the levy limit and noted that this move will not be used to balance the budget.
“When you’re above Proposition 2 1/2 ... and you’re using money that you have in your free cash account, that’s called using reserves to balance the budget, and that’s not the case here,” Vieau explained. “This is actual tax relief to our taxpayers, whether it be residential, commercial [or] industrial. This is a $3 million transfer from free cash to the levy, and the goal is to lower tax increases coming up when you set those rates in the near future.”
Vieau recently submitted a recommended FY27 budget of approximately $283.5 million to the City Council, representing an increase of approximately 2.6% from FY26.
The Committee of the Whole is set to host budget meetings on June 22, 23 and 25 to meet with each department for their budget hearing before voting on the FY27 operating budget.
Vieau shared that the city is once again able to propose this allocation because of where the city currently is financially.
“I can assure you I’ve gone through every single line in that budget with every department head, and I expect you’d be doing the same and looking at creative ways of saving money in our community, but I can share that we’re in a fiscally responsible position to be able to do this this year again, and I want to continue to take that burden off of our taxpayers,” Vieau said.
The other order approved by the council moves $1 million of free cash to the other post employment benefits trust fund account to invest in future benefits of employees.
Vieau explained that OPEB is an unfunded liability and said the state has asked municipalities to fund that liability and the retirement of others.
“As the city moves closer to being fully funded in our retirement, the next goal is to get fully funded in moving forward with the other post-employee benefits, which means for our retirees, looking at their health insurance, their dental insurance, it’s anything other than the actual retirement that has been contributed to over the years,” Vieau stated.
Vieau also explained why the city should start investing free
cash into this account, especially because the unused free cash expires on June 30 and is put in the general fund.
“When you look at the OPEB account, we really need to start investing more into it, and it’s best for us,” Vieau explained. “Of course, it’s mandated by the state, and also the goal is, it enhances our bond rating capacity. We get better bond rates, so our goal is to start focusing on OPEB.”
Matthew Cross outlines vision as new fire chief for Chicopee
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
CHICOPEE — For the first time since 2019, Chicopee will have a new fire chief after former Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Cross was sworn into the position on June 16.
The ceremony commenced after former Fire Chief Daniel Stamborski announced plans to retire from the Chicopee Fire Department following 29 years with the city, almost seven of which were as chief.
Cross, meanwhile, is a lifelong Chicopee resident who joined the Chicopee Fire Department in 1996 and has served the community for over three decades, rising through the ranks as lieutenant, captain and deputy chief since 2015. Most recently, he earned the highest overall score in the Civil Service Assessment Center process.
Cross stressed the importance of honoring the department’s traditions, embracing the future and continuing to provide the high-
est level of service to Chicopee residents.
“I am ready to work hard every single day, lead with integrity and serve this department to the very best of my ability,” Cross said. “It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as the fire chief of the Chicopee Fire Department. I am proud to serve this great department, great city and to stand beside all of you.”
He also stated that he wants to lead the department with fairness, consistency, transparency and respect.
“At the heart of everything we do are the residents of Chicopee who trust us during the most difficult moments of their lives,” Cross shared. “This trust is something we will continue to earn every day. As we move forward, we will never lose sight of the traditions and values that have made this department what it is today.”
Cross is a graduate of the Department of Fire Services Chief Fire Officer Management Program and has an associate degree in fire science. He has served on
the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Hazardous Materials Response Team for 17 years and currently serves as technical support and truck manager. He is also an instructor at the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy.
Cross said these experiences, along with the outstanding colleagues he works with, reinforced the importance of professionalism, preparation and clear thinking while under pressure.
Looking ahead, Cross acknowledged that the fire service is changing with new challenges every day, including an increased call volume, staffing shortages and recruitment hurdles. “There is nobody I would rather face these challenges with than the dedicated individuals in this room today,” Cross stated. “As fire chief, I believe our success will depend upon taking care of our people, embracing innovation and remaining focused on our mission.”
Now in his new leadership role, Cross said his priorities include placing the safety and
well-being of the firefighters in Chicopee at the center of every decision, modernizing training and recruitment efforts to attract, develop and retain the best talent
and continuing to build strong partnerships with city departments, state agencies and the
Mayor John Vieau talks about two allocations that look to lower the tax levy and invest in employees’ future benefits.
Photo credit: ChicopeeTV
Polish Center of Discovery and Learning scholarships open
CHICOPEE — The Polish Center of Discovery & Learning is opening applications for the third year of its academic scholarship program for students of Polish heritage. The scholarship is provided through a generous donation from Donald Tenerowicz
and is named the Theodore P. Tenorowicz and Mary E. Bigos Endowed Scholarship Program to honor his parents.
Kenneth Lemanski, board member of the Polish Center and chair of the Education Committee, comments “As the cost
of higher education continues to increase, we are grateful to scholarship donors to the PCDL so that together we may make it a little easier for students and their parents to afford a quality education.”
To be eligible, applicants
must be enrolled full-time in an accredited university or college, be in good academic standing, maintain a GPA of 3.8 or higher and be of Polish heritage. Applications can be submitted starting June 19, with an application deadline of Sept. 18.
Scholarship application and full criteria can be found at https:// clkr.me/h5nfya.
For more information about the Polish Center of Discovery and Learning, please visit polishcenter.net or call 413-592-0001.
Hampden Hood Cleaner’s license suspended after mall fire
STOW — State Fire Marshal
Jon M. Davine last week suspended a commercial cooking exhaust hood cleaner’s license for up to two and a half years after failing to clean the ductwork where a fire later broke out at the Holyoke Mall.
The order bars Joseph Gorecki and his business, Gorecki & Sons LLC, from performing any regulated work until September 2029, but it would allow him to seek reinstatement after 15 months if he takes and successfully passes a certification exam administered by the Office of the State Fire Marshal’s office. The remaining
Fire Chief
Continued from page 7
community to reduce risk and enhance emergency response.
Throughout his career, Cross has demonstrated leadership and dedication, according to the city. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he served as the department’s executive officer for more than two years, helping guide and support the department through unprecedented challenges. He has also secured more than $1.8 million in state and federal grant funding to support the department and its mission.
In addition to his service in the Fire Department, Cross is an active volunteer with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts,
15 months would be considered a probationary period during which his individual and business licenses could again be suspended and new penalties could be imposed if he violates any aspect of the State Fire Code.
Neither Gorecki nor his business is alleged to have started the Feb. 18 fire at the Holyoke Mall. That fire began when sparks from work in the area ignited built-up grease within the exhaust ducts.
Rather, a joint investigation by the Department of Fire Services’ Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit and the Holyoke Fire Department determined that Gorecki &
helping address food insecurity in multiple communities.
Stamborski talked to Reminder Publishing about Cross before his promotion.
“He certainly earned it. He’s an outstanding man, good dad, good person, we’re good friends,” Stamborski said. “He’s got more time on the job than I do. He’s got 30 years of experience right now, and [he’s] well-qualified to serve the city.”
Vieau said he interviewed a lot of great candidates but decided Cross was the right person to lead the department.
Sons LLC had failed to properly clean that ductwork of grease, failed to document his work accurately, and failed to notify the property owner of any areas that were inaccessible, not cleaned or not compliant with the Fire Code. Gorecki admitted to these violations and similar violations at three restaurants in Haverhill, Westfield and Marlborough.
“The Fire Code’s hood cleaning provisions protect lives and property,” said Davine. “They were put in place after a grease fire in restaurant duct work killed two firefighters. The overwhelming majority of hood cleaning license
holders understand the risks and do effective, professional work. Those who don’t put people and businesses in harm’s way.”
“Every day, families put their trust in the Fire Code to make restaurants, malls and other public spaces safe to visit,” said Holyoke Fire Chief John Kadlewicz. “Code violations aren’t administrative technicalities — they’re serious business. Holyoke firefighters spent four hours fighting the threealarm fire at the Holyoke Mall, and we’re extremely fortunate that no one was seriously injured.”
The license suspension was based on cooperative efforts by
the Department of Fire Services and the Holyoke Fire Department following the February fire; witness interviews; Gorecki & Sons inspection records; and spotchecks of various locations where Gorecki & Sons had performed regulated work. They were also based on Gorecki’s admissions, in which he took responsibility for the violations.
Anyone aware of hood cleaning work performed by Joseph Gorecki or Gorecki & Sons LLC prior to September 2027 is asked to contact the DFS Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit at 978-567-3375.
“The challenges we face as a community are real, their genuine and it requires a proven leader,” Vieau said. “I’ll share that it’s a tough decision to pick when you have wonderful, amazing, qualified, capable people in leadership roles, so I’m
well. As
grateful for that as
deputy chief, [Cross] is doing an amazing job. I can tell by just the amount of people who are in this room or who are here today to celebrate and are here to
witness that Deputy Chief Matthew Cross is the right decision. I’m excited for the direction the Fire Department is heading in.”
Newly appointed Chicopee Fire Chief Matthew Cross talks to the packed City Hall auditorium after his swearing-in ceremony.
Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
STRM: East Longmeadow July 4 celebrations
By Dennis Hackett dhackett@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — With the United States celebrating its 250th anniversary this July, East Longmeadow is pulling out all the stops with one of its biggest Fourth of July celebrations to date.
On the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me,” East Longmeadow Rotary Club and 250th Committee members Donna Prather and Adele Hill joined Tyler Garnet and myself to talk all about East Longmeadow’s Fourth of July and 250th anniversary celebrations, dubbed “Celebrating America 250th in 01028 in the USA”.
Hill said people can look forward to “lots of stuff” as a part of the celebration and said it was a group effort with organizations in town.
“Celebrate 250th in East Longmeadow started off as sort of an idea with different groups from the Recreation Department, Rotary Club, as well as the town manager’s office, and it has evolved into this huge amount of coordination for a bunch of different events starting on June 26,” she said.
Hill added that Center Field will serve as the main stage for the events kicking off on June 26, which includes live music and a beer garden put together by East Village Tavern. Beginning on June 26, there will be a car show from 5-7 p.m. with a performance from Just Go With It; on June 27, there will be lawn games, Trivia with Rich and the town’s first ceremonial bonfire, along with live music from Project 267; there will be a cornhole tournament from 3-7 p.m. along with a performance from Aquanett; and on June 29 the Rotary Club will be offering free meals for veterans followed by a performance from Now That’s 90’s. There will also be food available for purchase every night.
Following the additional four days of events this year, the annual carnival kicks off on June 30 at Center Field, which runs every day through July 4. There will also be live music at the carnival each night starting with Masshats on June 30, Trailer Trash on July 1, the Black Cadillacs on July 2 and 7Roads Band on July 3. Also, on July 3 at Mapleshade Elementary School, Trailer Trash will perform again before the laser light show, which is scheduled for 9 p.m. All the concerts will take place at 7 p.m., and the carnival will run each day from 6-10 p.m. On July 4, the parade steps off at 10 a.m. from St. Michael’s
Church and will continue along the traditional route from Maple Street to North Main Street to Maplewood Street to Elm Street, while the carnival runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. that day. It’s Pat Again will play the last concert that night.
Hill said a new addition to the parade this year is a sensory spot.
“Which will be Elmcrest, which is just at the end of the parade route before the parade route ends at Hanward Hill,” she said.
“The DPW and police, we’re going to set it up so that we have the area cornered off and families can have one-sided parking on that street so they can park close so those with issues with loud noises, loud sounds or loud colors, and lights and such have a more quiet area to actually enjoy the parade.”
Along with the events throughout the week, the club and Historical Commission are still accepting submissions for the time capsule until June 27. There are donation boxes available in town buildings. Hill also highlighted the first business that submitted for the capsule.
“If you look on Facebook, Jeanie’s Weenies gave a hat, so that was actually the first thing donated,” she said.
Hill also said the laser light show, which has replaced the traditional fireworks because of the construction of the new high school, has been a huge success.
“We are guessing we had thousands of people for the laser light show because everybody else in the area canceled their fireworks because they couldn’t set them off,” she said.
Prather said the new location at Mapleshade was also a success.
“We got a lot of great feedback also about the location of it because of the way it was set up on the field and people were able to walk to it,” she said.
Hill said that putting all the events together is a community effort.
“It’s great to have so many planners from the town, town officials, as well as with the Rec. Department and Rotarians who have all come together to help plan these different events,” Hill said. “For the July 4 parade, we have a lot of community members who come out and help.”
Prather added that the volunteers are a huge part of organizing the events.
“It’s huge, it goes from word of mouth to someone out there hanging a banner, or setting up chairs for an event, we have high school students that help us, this wouldn’t
happen without volunteers, both monetarily and sweat equity,” she said. “It’s enormous how many people come out and help.”
said she was most looking forward to people coming out and having fun.
“It’s really about seeing people
Prather
happy and having a good time; there’s enough to worry about go-
East Longmeadow Rotary Club and 250th Committee members Donna Prather and Adele Hill joined Tyler Garnet and Dennis Hackett on the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me.”
Reminder Publishing photo by Chris Maza
See STRM on page 11
Operations Director: Curtis Panlilio
Executive Editor: Chris Maza
Managing Editors: Dennis Hackett, Ryan Feyre
Staff Writers: Sarah Heinonen, Deb Gardner, Amy Porter, Trent Levakis, Cliff Clark, Tyler Garnet, Peter Tuohy
Graphic Design Manager: Beth Thurber
Graphic Design Department: Leigh Catchepaugh, Lorie Perry, Sophia McClellan, Susan Bartlett, Jim Johnson-Corwin, Molly Arnio
Sales Manager: Scott Greene
Account Executives: Matt Mahaney, Paula Dimauro, Lisa Nolan, Jeanette Grenier, Paul Poutre, Andy Shaw, Laura Tassistro
Classified Account Managers:
Roxanne Miller-Longtin, Evan Marcyoniak, Shannon Spada
HOLYOKE — A former Holyoke convenience store that has sat vacant may soon become an apartment, offering a new housing opportunity in the city.
ArchitectureEL announced its partnership with Valley Opportunity Council on the adaptive reuse of a former neighborhood convenience store in Holyoke at 865 Hampden St., transforming the long-vacant commercial space into a new residential apartment.
ArchitectureEL is a Massachusetts-based architecture and design firm specializing
in multifamily housing, commercial design, community development and adaptive reuse projects. The firm works with public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private clients to create functional, sustainable and enduring buildings.
According to the organization, the project represents another step forward in addressing housing needs while revitalizing underutilized properties throughout the city. The redevelopment reflects a growing commitment by local organizations to create innovative housing solutions in Holyoke, where demand for quality, af-
fordable housing continues to rise, the organization says.
Valley Opportunity Council, a long-standing community action agency dedicated to expanding opportunities and improving quality of life throughout Greater Hampden County, has a history of supporting housing initiatives and neighborhood investment.
Through housing, education, workforce development, energy assistance and family support programs, VOC says it is dedicated to helping low- and moderate-income residents achieve greater independence and a higher quality of life.
Construction is expected to begin following final approvals, with the completed apartment providing a new residential opportunity in one of Holyoke’s established neighborhoods. The project will look to preserve neighborhood character while creating a new home for a resident in the community. Neither organization had an exact timeline for when construction will finish.
Although preliminary plans have been discussed for the project, VOC Executive Director Steve Huntley said they
Molina fills Ward 7 seat on Holyoke School Committee
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — Latitia Molina will join the Holyoke School Committee after the committee and City Council hosted a joint meeting on June 17 to finalize her appointment. Molina becomes the Ward 7 representative following the resignation of previous member Ellie Wilson, who announced in May that she was leaving the committee.
Molina, who has worked as a nurse for the past 16 years, was chosen af ther committee interviewed multiple candidates.
“This career has taught me how to listen, how to advocate, how to work collaboratively, and how to make thoughtful decisions while keeping the needs of others at the center, Molina said. “It’s also given me a look inside the lives of individuals with a range of socioeconomic complexities.”
Molina talked about how her lived experience can help with
the Holyoke Public Schools. “I come before you not as a politician or someone who knows
remotely the beginnings of serving on that sector, but as a lifelong Holyoke resident, a nurse, a mother and someone who deeply believes in the potential of every child in our city,” Molina said.
Molina also has two kids, including one starting kindergarten in the fall. She stated, “Like
every parent, I want my child to receive an education that is safe, supportive, and prepares them for a successful future, but my interest in serving goes beyond my own family. I care deeply about all of Holyoke’s children and
Latitia Molina gets sworn-in as the Ward 7 School Committee member at a joint School Committee and City Council meeting on June 17.
Photo credit: Holyoke Media
Continued from page 9
ing on in the world right now so let’s just have some fun,” she said.
The following communities also have plenty of events in store for the holiday and anniversary:
• Chicopee is celebrating America’s 250th birthday from 4-10 p.m. at Szot Park on Friday, June 26. Fireworks will take place on Saturday, June 27, with a rain date of Sunday, June 28,
Molina
Continued from page 10
families.” Molina also shared that she was raised in Holyoke and lived in every ward growing up because of challenges with finding a permanent home. She talked about how her upbringing yielded valuable experiences that can help families in Holyoke who face similar struggles.
“I understand many of the challenges our students face because I lived them myself. I grew up in poverty and experienced firsthand the barriers that many
VOC
Continued from page 10
are only in the evaluation stage and there are no exact plans yet for the site.
He added that they are still looking at what is required for zoning and other requirements for the conversion before moving forward with getting bids for
at Szot Park.
Holyoke’s July 4 fireworks celebration will take place at Holyoke Community College on Friday, June 26, and a rain date is scheduled for Saturday, June 27. The event begins at 6 p.m. There will be food, music and family-friendly activities before the fireworks display at dusk.
• On Saturday June 27, the Thunder in the Valley Concert & Fireworks Festival returns. The event is ran by nonprofit Unbroken Wings Inc and the proceeds for the event go to benefit the
families in our district continue to navigate today. I know what it feels like when resources are limited, opportunities seem out of reach and when a strong school system can make all the difference in a child’s life.” Molina stated, “I’ve seen Holyoke from many different perspectives. I understand that while our neighborhoods may have different strengths and different challenges, families across Holyoke share the same hopes for their children: a quality education, caring teachers and opportunities to succeed.”
As a School Committee member, Molina said she would approach every decision
the project.
ArchitectureEL Principal Architect Kevin Rothschild-Shea talked about the partnership with VOC and the benefits of transforming the vacant property in a statement.
“This project demonstrates how creative thinking and strong community partnerships can turn underutilized properties into meaningful housing opportunities,” Rothschild-Shea said. “Ev-
Children’s Miracle Network at Baystate Children’s Hospital. It is a full day event featuring live bands, food trucks, family-friendly games and activities and a fireworks show to end the night.
• The annual South Hadley fireworks celebration will occur on Friday, July 3, at 5 p.m., with the fireworks commencing at 9:30 p.m. at the Michael E. Smith Middle School. A potential rain date is scheduled for Sunday, July 5. The evening will include food trucks, vendors, rides and
with a simple question: how does this impact students and their families?
Molina said she believes in supporting the city’s educators, strengthening communication with families, ensuring accountability, and making decisions that are rooted in equity and opportunity for all students.
She stated that although she does not have a traditional political background, she will still bring real-world experience advocating for people, a deep understanding of Holyoke and a commitment to public service.
“The district already has hundreds of educators to offer pro-
ery housing unit matters, and we are excited to help bring a vacant neighborhood property back to life in a way that benefits Holyoke residents.”
If completed, the project adds to ArchitectureEL’s growing portfolio of work throughout Holyoke. The firm has played a role in numerous public and community-focused projects across the city, including work for the Holyoke Housing Authority, the
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
Stanley Bator
Mary T. Blanchette
Neal W. Gonet
Phyllis J. Murdock
Susan M. Neely
Lawrence C.J. Ryan
EAST LONGMEADOW
Walter J. “Joe” Krol
HOLYOKE
Beverly A. Doty
Ina Y. Klimczuk
LONGMEADOW
Anthony S. Marangoudakis
LUDLOW
Theresa Black
Maria Diniz
Joaquim “Jack” Henriques
Dorothy Mikaelian
SOUTH HADLEY
Harvey L. Cook
Sheila A. DeRosier
SPRINGFIELD
Angelina A. Braica
Robert Francis Canning
Peter I. Donnelly
Geoffrey E. Donovan
Henry F. Fuss
Mark W. LaBonte
Thomas M. Rheault
Wilhelmina C. Siracuse
Robert K. Stetson Jr.
Jerome Thomas Weldon Sr.
WILBRAHAM
Suzanne Elmasian
games for kids. There will be a DJ in the parking lot, and the South Hadley Community Band will start to play at 8 p.m.
• Westfield will be home to the annual Wyben Fourth of July Parade, which starts at 5 p.m. on July 4 at the corner of North and Montgomery roads. Westfield will also have a fireworks display at Westfield Middle School on July 2 at 9:15 p.m.
• Star Spangled Springfield returns on July 4 from 6-10 p.m. with fireworks to be displayed from the Memorial Bridge.
fessional expertise and feedback. My value lies elsewhere as a parent, advocate, and direct recipient of the work, the changes, and challenges that lie ahead as we propel ourselves forward out of receivership and back to local control,” Molina said.
One of the biggest challenges Molina said she is looking forward to tackling is the disconnection she feels between the school and the home. She talked about her time in Holyoke Public Schools, stating, “I feel like I really needed help and guidance from people and support, and I was smart enough to put up a barrier and walls so that not a lot
city of Holyoke, Holyoke Public Schools and other local institutions. Recent projects have included historic renovations, building upgrades, roof replacements, HVAC improvements and other investments.
• Enfield will host its Fourth of July Town Celebration from July 10-12. There will be a 5K at 9 a.m. and parade at 11 a.m. on July 11 along with a car show on July 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by the fireworks at 9:45 p.m. Beginning on July 10, there will be live music and family events throughout the weekend. To listen to the full episode, head to thereminder.com/ourpodcast or search “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform.
of people know what I was going through. I would say having more of a connection between the students, the families, and the school could really set our kids for success a little bit better.”
Molina was sworn in after the meeting and will serve until the term is up in 2028. The seat will then be filled by the voters during a regular election.
Mayor Joshua Garcia said in a statement on Facebook, “Congratulations, Latitia Molina, on your recent appointment to represent Ward 7 on the School Committee for the Holyoke Public Schools. Looking forward to working with you.”
Adaptive reuse projects such as this one have become one strategy for communities seeking to address housing shortages while breathing new life into older buildings.
renders an opin on that such activites are consistent with maintaining a Condition of No Significant Risk; (ii) Activities which would resu t in alteration of the Active Exposure Pathway Mitigation Measure un ess the activities are evaluated by a Licensed Site Profess onal
CHICOPEE
Alexandra Noel Cebula and Shane Andrew Clark to Matthew Preston, 60 Honeysuckle
Bette J. Goulet to Denise M. Blanchette and Dianne M. Blanchette, 20 Richmond Way, Unit
Dominic J. Guay and Patricia Guay to Ceasar Lopez, 17 Sunnymeade Ave.
Gloria Murray to Morgan A. Latourelle and Pedro Duarte, 56 Thaddeus St.
Haskell Holdings LLC, to Silky Kasturia, 40 Orchard St.
Jocelyn Wildman, Jocelyn Zyla and Nicholas Zyla to Brie A. Beaudry, 32 Applewood Drive
John D. Blair and Shirley Blair to Eric Chmielewski and Alison Chmielewski, 39 Dixie Terrace
John N. Floyd and Eva L. Fahey to Shaolyn A. Soto and Shawn M. Hartley, 68 Colonial Circle Unit C
