FEBRUARY 26, 2026 | FREE
IN THIS EDITION
EAST LONGMEADOW
Library Friends partner with Thunderbirds for fundraiser
The Friends of East Longmeadow Public Library are calling for the community to join them for a fundraising outing at the Springfield Thunderbirds game against the Iowa Wild on March 6 at 7:05 p.m.
LONGMEADOW
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JGS Lifecare celebrates grand reopening of Michael’s Cafe
Longmeadow’s JGS Lifecare celebrated the grand reopening of Michael’s Cafe on Feb. 19. The cafe is designed as a centerpiece of the Sosin Center for Rehabilitation.
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HAMPDEN
Hampden continues to look over regional agreement
At a recent Selectboard meeting, discussion continued on the regional agreement.
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Healey, Driscoll make Holyoke campaign stop
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — On Feb. 17, Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim
Driscoll visited the International Volleyball Hall of Fame in Holyoke as part of two campaign stops in Western Massachusetts.
The stop in Holyoke and the one later that day in North Adams provided Healey and Driscoll the opportunity to discuss state investments in new housing projects and local arts and culture, in addition to the duo’s affordability agenda and their reelection campaign.
“The bottom line is both Kim and I feel incredibly privileged to be in these positions,”
Healey stated. “We also deeply, deeply love our state, and we want to work and stand shoulder to shoulder with everyone and anyone who believes in our state and who wants better for their community, for their family, and we’ll work so, so hard to get that done.”
Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia opened the event by endorsing the duo and highlighting some of the work they and the state have done to help Holyoke achieve certain goals. He specifically highlighted advancements in housing, regaining local control for its school district and construction advancements at the Victory Theatre as major milestones in the community.
Garcia recalled a similar event four years ago at the Victory Theatre in Holyoke, where he first endorsed Healey for governor.
“Today, I stand here once again alongside our governor to reaffirm my full support for Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll as they seek reelection, because their leadership has been clear, their vision has been strong
and their commitment to not only Holyoke, but communities everywhere in the commonwealth.”
Other legislators at the event endorsed Healey and Driscoll, including state Reps. Pat Duffy and Brian Ashe, Easthampton Mayor Salem Derby, Holyoke City Council President Tessa Murphy-Romboletti and Holyoke City Councilor Juan Anderson-Burgos.
Healey emphasized some important accomplishments from her first term, including tax cuts, the passage of a “historic” housing bill, and improvements in health care costs and economic development.
Healey said the housing bill has resulted in 100,000 housing starts, in other words, new housing units either built, permitted or constructed around the state in the last three years. She fur-
ther explained that experts said when they started, Massachusetts needed to build about 220,000 units around the state by 2035 to get to where they need to be.
“We’re focused on affordability, we’re focused on building more homes as quickly as we can to drive down costs,” Healey said. “Build more housing, we drive down costs.”
First-time homebuyers can also receive $25,000 towards the purchase of a new home.
Healey also recently announced an increase in the production of Accessory Dwelling Units in Massachusetts to expand housing options, support homeowners and increase affordable housing.
For economic development, Healey talked about a key economic driver in the state.
“One thing that we’re really excited about in this region is the
opportunity for more investment in arts and culture. This is a great example. What Victory Theatre is going to yield; what that’s going to become is just going to be so awesome,” Healey said. Healey also announced that her administration is focused on lowering the cost of energy bills. “Standing up to utility companies, we’ll oppose any rate hikes out there. I filed energy legislation, which will reduce energy costs by $13 billion.”
Healey discussed the completion of the New England Clean Energy Connect transmission line that is now delivering affordable, stable hydropower from Canada to Massachusetts. According to mass.gov, the NECEC line will provide Massachusetts with nearly 20% of its overall
Gov. Maura Healey discusses some accomplishments during her current term while at the International Volleyball Hall of Fame in Holyoke.
Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
See HEALEY on page 2
Please email your community listings to: dhackett@thereminder.com
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EAST LONGMEADOW
EAST LONGMEADOW PUBLIC LIBRARY
The following events are organized by the East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square. For more information or to register, head to eastlongmeadowlibrary.org or call 413-525-5420.
Ongoing programs:
• Teen Spot — Fridays 2-4:30 p.m. Teen Winter Crafternoons — Thursdays at 2:30 p.m.
• Teen Writing Group — Meets the first Tuesday of the month from 2:30-4 p.m. This month’s session is March 3. Teen programs:
• Paws & Pencils — Monday, March 2 at 2:30 p.m. Homework got you overwhelmed? Drop in after school to destress with a certified therapy dog. Grab a snack, enjoy coffee, tea or hot chocolate, work on homework or studying, enjoy a quiet activity, or just relax and recharge in a calm space.
Children’s programs:
Healey
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electricity, deliver $3.38 billion in total net economic benefits to Massachusetts ratepayers over the life of the contracts and reduce ratepayer bills by around $50 million each year.
On the topic of health care, Healey said they are the first team to eliminate copays and deductibles for people on their health care. They also recently got rid of prior authorizations for
TOWN EVENTS
• Creative Crayon Creations — Tuesday, March 3 at 4:30 p.m. for ages 6 and up. Origami — Wednesday March 4 at 4:30 p.m.
• Make Your Own Leprechaun Trap — Saturday, March 7 at 10 a.m.
• Pathways for Parents programs: Music and Movement — Monday, March 2 at 1 p.m. for ages 2-5.
• Transportation Station — Tuesday, March 3 at 10 a.m. for ages birth to 3. Grow, Play, Learn — Friday, March 6 at 9:45 a.m. for ages birth to 2 and 10:45 a.m. for ages 2-5.
LONGMEADOW
RICHARD SALTER STORRS LIBRARY
The following events take place at the Richard Salter Storrs Library, 593 Longmeadow St. For more information or to register for programs, call 413-565-4181, or head to longmeadowlibrary.org.
All ages programs: Art Exhibit: Matthew Cowles — March 2-30. An art reception for Matthew Cowles will be held on Monday, March 9 at 6 p.m. Ongoing youth programs: Rhythm & Read — Mondays, 9:30-10 a.m.
• Youth Chess — Mondays, 3:15-4:15 p.m.
“a whole bunch of staff.”
She explained, “If you got diabetes, you no longer have to wait for some insurance company to OK your receiving insulin. We’re trying to make it easier for people to get access to care, and we fundamentally believe in this. At a moment where the president and Congress have taken a trillion dollars out of health care, we stand here united in support of making sure that we’re doing everything we can to get health care to our residents who need it.”
When it comes to the federal
• Stories and Movement — Tuesdays, 9:30-10 a.m. Newbies (ages birth to 18 months) — Tuesdays, 10:4511:30 a.m. This program is sponsored by Pathways for Parents. Pathways for Parents is funded by the Coordinated Family and Community Engagement Grant through the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care.
• Grow, Play, Learn (ages birth to 5 years) — Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. This program is sponsored by Pathways for Parents.
• Tiny Tales — Thursdays, 9:3010 a.m.
Youth programs:
• BOLT: Board of Library Teens — Monday, March 2, 4:30-5 p.m. All skill levels are welcome for chess and a challenge. Registration is required and limited.
• Paper Airplanes (ages 6 and up) — Tuesday, March 3, 3:30-4 p.m. Build your own paper airplane. Test out different styles! And then compete to see who build the ultimate paper airplane!
• Zen Zone: Coloring — Wednesday, March 4, 3:30-4 p.m. Looking for a calm place to destress in the middle of your week? Come to the Zen Zone and color while listening to soft music. All ages wel-
administration, Healey said they will continue to look for ways to work with them, but stated, “Where the president and federal administration do things to harm people, we’re going to stand up and defend Massachusetts.”
She continued, “I’m excited about some of what we’ve been able to accomplish. We know that these are hard and challenging times. Both of us were college basketball players, so we do a little bit about taking lumps and getting back up and throwing the necessary elbow when neces-
come!
• Page to Screen Club: “The Wizard of Oz” — Friday, March 6, 1:15-3 p.m.
Ongoing adult programs:
• Traveling Library — Monday, March 2, 2:15-4:30 p.m. Tech Tuesdays — Tuesdays, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
• Adult Center Book Club — Tuesday, March 3, 12:30-1:30 p.m. This month’s selection: “The Women” by Kristin Hannah.
• Fiber Arts: Meeting — Tuesday, March 3, 6-7:30 p.m. VIRTUAL: 50+ Job Seekers Networking Group — Wednesday, March 4, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Music Appreciation with Rob Humbertson — Wednesdays, 1-2:30 p.m.
• Weekly Writers Group, Thursdays, 9:30-11 a.m. Storrs Stichers, Fridays 1011:30 a.m.
Adult programs:
• Pulsing with Nature this Spring with Judit Torok — Tuesday, March 3, 6-7:30 p.m.
• Library Virtual Speakers: Humor, Heart, and Reflective Rural Stories with Michael Perry — Wednesday, March 4, 2-4 p.m.
• Great Decisions with Vinnie Ferraro: U.S.-China Relations Wednesday, March 4, 4:30-6 p.m.
LONGMEADOW ADULT CENTER
sary, or pick when necessary, but fundamentally, whether it’s volleyball or basketball, it’s about teamwork, and that’s the vibe we’ll continue to bring, not only to the campaign — as we seek to grow more support — but also to the that way we look to govern.”
Driscoll said she and Healey work hard to make sure the decisions they make at the State House reflect the needs of each community in Massachusetts as they continue to uplift and empower local governments.
“We can have the best pol-
The following programs are organized by the Longmeadow Adult Center, located at 211 Maple Road For more information or to sign up for programs, call 413-565-4160 option 1. TED Talk — Tuesday, March 3 at 1 p.m. Discover the inspiring story of Sandor Teszler, a Hungarian Holocaust survivor, through the eyes of Wofford College president Ben Dunlap TED Talk.
• Black Americans in the Revolution — Tuesday, March 3 at 6 p.m. Join speaker Ousmane Power-Green of Clark University for this talk on the Black American heroes of the American Revolution. Reil Country — Wednesday, March 4 at 1:30 p.m. Greg Reil is a solo acoustic artist that has been performing for audiences in the Western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut area for over 8 years. Enjoy a mix of your favorite songs that span the decades; all done with a nice 90’s country feel.
LYA PRESENTS PURIM FUN Purim fun begins at LYA on Monday, March 2, with a performance for children at 5:30 p.m. by Maggie the Clown followed by megillah reading at 6:20 p.m. A light dairy dinner will be served after the megillah reading. There is no charge for this event.
icies, and I think we have a lot of them. We can make significant investments in things like housing and infrastructure, but none of that gets done unless we [have] a strong team locally,” Driscoll said. “That’s why it’s such a privilege to be serving in a time when we have the ability to work with amazing leaders, shape policies, shift resources and do things that are going to help communities lower costs, drive high quality of life, and make Massachusetts the best place to live to raise a family [and] to come visit.”
Maybury Material Handling continues speedway partnership
STAFFORD SPRINGS, CON-
NECTICUT — For the 11th consecutive season, Maybury Material Handling of East Longmeadow will be a first-place contingency program partner at Stafford Motor Speedway. Maybury
will present a weekly bonus of $150 to each SK Modified winner and a $150 bonus to each SK Light feature winner during the 2026 season. This means Maybury will contribute a total of $6,750 during the 2026 season,
with the SK Modified® having a first place prize pool of $3,150 with the SK Light division having a pool of $3,600. Maybury Material Handling will also serve as the title sponsor of the August 21 Back to SKool Night Kids Night.
“We’re happy to be involved with Stafford Speedway and to be a part of the contingency program for another season,” said John Maybury of Maybury Material Handling. “We love Stafford Speedway and we’re excited to
once again support both of their modified divisions as well as Kids Night. We’ve been involved at Stafford on and off since the ‘80s, and racing has always had a special place in my family, so we’re pleased to support Stafford’s modified drivers who share that same passion. We’re all looking forward to another great season!” The 2025 season saw 9 different drivers both in the SK Modified® and SK Light divisions reach NAPA Victory Lane. In the SK Modified® division, Michael Christopher, Jr. led all drivers with five wins. Other multiple feature winners included Keith Rocco with three wins, and Cory DiMatteo and Mikey Flynn with two wins each. There were five drivers who each recorded a single feature win in 2025: Alexander Pearl, Jon Puleo, Marcello Rufrano, Troy Talman and Max Zachem.
In the SK Light division, Nickolas Hovey led all modified drivers with 6 wins during the 2025 season. There were only two other multiple feature winners with Nick Anglace and Chris Matthews each recording 3 victories. Single event feature winners from 2025 included Peter Bennett, Bob Charland, Meghan Fuller, Dean Lambros, Josh Morrison and Brian Sullivan.
EAST LONGMEADOW HOCKEY WINS CHAMPIONSHIP — The East Longmeadow hockey team poses for a photo after defeating Westfield 3-2 to secure its first PVIAC Western Massachusetts Class “A” Championship on Feb. 19. Look for more photos in the March 5 edition of The Reminder.
Reminder Publishing photo by George Skovera
EAST LONGMEADOW
Library Friends partner with Thunderbirds for fundraiser
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — The Friends of the East Longmeadow Public Library are calling for the community to join them for a fundraising outing at the Springfield Thunderbirds game against the Iowa Wild on March 6 at 7:05 p.m.
The group is an all volunteer, registered 501c3 charitable organization of “individuals dedicated to fostering a love of libraries, books and reading in the East Longmeadow community,” according to their website.
While the town and state provide money to libraries for materials and technology, many of the programs at the library are paid for by the Friends and local contributions. Friends President Diane Tiago said the fundraiser started about a year ago when she saw the Thunderbirds did benefit evenings for various nonprofit organizations.
She said the first event was in March 2025 around St. Patrick’s Day. The Thunderbirds assigned a section of the arena to those who bought tickets through the Friends’ personalized link. Tickets for this year’s event are cur-
rently available for $23 on the Friends’ website, and a percentage of ticket sales goes directly to the organization.
“We do these fundraisers in order to obtain funds to help support all the different programs that go on in the library,” Tiago said. “Nobody’s charged, a patron who wants to go to a program, there is no cost to them in order to go, but there is a cost to have somebody come in to do a program.”
The fundraiser is intended to be a “community fun event,” according to Tiago. She said that libraries have become central for activities and do as much as they possibly can for the community, so this is a way the community can say “I love my library.”
“It’s a reciprocal kind of thing,” Tiago said. “Hopefully those that like hockey will go and enjoy a pleasant evening and help the library through the Friends, and help to pay for some of those programs that they enjoy all year round.”
She added that they’re going into the Thunderbirds night with an open mind and that the Friends don’t put on fundraisers with a target goal or particular dollar amount for earnings.
The organization is grateful for whatever is earned through their various fundraising events, according to Tiago.
There are also gift basket fundraisers three times a year, bake sales and membership dues to help support library programs. She added that the library puts on a summer reading club in June with entertainment for the children, such as magicians and face painting. These events help people unfamiliar with the Friends to come and meet the individuals a part of the organization.
“Just little things, shall I say, to have some fun and have the community say ‘look at the library and look at what a great job the library is doing,’” Tiago said. “We’re in the background, behind the curtain and so forth, to help make different things happen at the library.”
She said the group also advocates for library budgets and mentioned ways to support public libraries other than attending fundraisers, such as writing to representatives.
for the
of East
“Usually when it’s budget season, nothing goes down,” Tiago said. “The cost of everything goes up, so we are always trying to help out here. It’s not just financial, but we try to help advocate and be there in other ways to support our public libraries.”
Local students invited to compete in Stop the Swerve contest
is
ty to take part in the 2026 Stop the
Public Service An-
Business & Life Insurance
nouncement and Billboard Challenge, a countywide initiative aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving.
The contest challenges students to create original PSAs and/or billboard designs that deliver powerful, prevention-focused messages about safe driving. Submissions will be reviewed by a panel selected by the Hampden District Attorney’s Office, with first-, second- and third-place awards presented in both categories.
Winning schools will receive: First place: $2,500
• Second place: $1,000
• Third place: $500
Prize money is awarded directly to the winning students’ schools to support educational or school-based initiatives. In past years, award funds have been used for items such as classroom technology and student presentation equipment.
In addition to monetary awards, winning PSAs will air on 22News, and the selected billboard submission will have the opportunity to be displayed on one of Lamar Advertising’s digital billboards in Hampden County.
“This program gives students a real voice in preventing tragedies before they happen,” said Gulluni. “By creating messages
for their peers, students are helping shape safer behaviors and stronger communities.”
All submissions must consist of original student-created content and be approved and submitted by a designated adult representative at each school. Schools may submit multiple entries, though each submission requires its own entry form. The submission deadline is March 20.
Contest winners will be recognized during the Stop the Swerve prevention event, taking place on Thursday, April 2 at 5:30 p.m. at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. The event is free and open to all Hampden County parents and driving-age students, and will feature a locally produced documentary examining the real-world impact of impaired and distracted driving, along with interactive safety activities such as driving simulators and impairment-goggle exercises.
Eligible high school students in attendance will also have the opportunity to enter a raffle for free driving school tuition.
More information about the contest, submission guidelines, and the Stop the Swerve event can be found at hampdenda.com. The public Facebook event page is available at: facebook.com/ share/189Cm6LEZm/.
MULLINS EARNS DEGREE FROM UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND GLOBAL CAMPUS
ADELPHI, MARYLAND — Ryan Mullins of East Longmeadow earned a bachelor of science in computer science from University of Maryland Global Campus in fall 2025. Mullins was one of more than 6,400 students worldwide who earned degrees from UMGC in the fall 2025 term.
Tickets
Thunderbirds fundraiser can be purchased on the Friends
Longmeadow Public Library website.
Photo credit: Friends of East Longmeadow Public Library
SPRINGFIELD — Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni
inviting high school students across Hampden Coun-
Swerve
PVFG’s Sokolowski named Business West Difference Maker
LUDLOW — Pioneer Valley Financial Group is proud to share that Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor Ed Sokolowski has been recognized as a Difference Maker by Business West.
When Ed founded PV Financial in 2002 alongside partners Joe Leonczyk and Chuck Myers, they set out to build something different. From the beginning, the firm has been guided by what Sokolowski calls “the triangle” — three areas that must work together to create real success: clients, employees and community. For PV, giving back isn’t an afterthought; it’s one of the three sides that holds everything up.
“We’re not here to make the most money — we’re here to make a difference in all three ar-
eas,” Sokolowski said. That mindset continues to shape the company today. PV Financial operates with a simple mission: they believe in helping its clients and community live better. Their legacy is the people and the lives that they have touched.
For more than two decades, giving back has grown into a defining part of the firm’s culture. It’s not just about writing checks — it’s about showing up. The entire team is involved, volunteering their time with local nonprofits and supporting events that strengthen the community.
Longstanding initiatives like the annual Slide into Summer Safety event with local schools and first responders, as well as
the First Responder’s Appreciation Dinner, have become traditions for the firm. At the same time, newer partnerships with organizations such as CHD, All In, and Rachel’s Table have created even more opportunities for employees to get involved throughout the year. In 2025 alone, PV Financial worked with more than 64 organizations, participated in 51 community events, and contributed over 75 volunteer hours across the region. The Difference Maker recognition is an honor, but for PV Financial, the real reward is continuing to live out that mission every day.
Read the full article at businesswest.com/issues/feb16-2026/#p=44
EAST BROOKFIELD — In recognition of Spay and Neuter Awareness Month, Second Chance Animal Services is highlighting the lifesaving impact of its spay and neuter program and encouraging pet owners to take this important step for their pets’ health while helping prevent pet overpopulation in our communities.
Spaying and neutering offer important medical benefits that can help pets live longer, healthier lives. Spaying female pets eliminates the risk of life-threatening uterine infections and greatly reduces the chance of mammary cancer, especially when done early. Neutering male pets prevents testicular cancer and lowers the risk of prostate disease. In both dogs and cats, the surgery can reduce behaviors such as roaming, fighting and marking, which in turn decreases the risk of injuries and exposure to disease. More than just population control, these procedures are a proactive
investment in your pet’s longterm health and well-being.
Second Chance began offering spay and neuter services in 2005 with a once-a-week clinic at its Adoption Center, helping approximately 2,000 pets in that first year. At the time, the team could accommodate about 15 pets on a surgery day. Today, thanks to expanded facilities and a highly trained medical team, Second Chance can care for up to 40 pets in a single day while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.
In 2025 alone, Second Chance performed 8,747 spay and neuter surgeries for dogs and cats. Since launching the program in 2005, the organization has spayed and neutered more than 95,000 pets, preventing unplanned litters and reducing the strain on shelters and communities.
“A lot has changed over the years to get us to this many surgeries,” said Sheryl Blancato, founder and CEO of Second
TUFTS UNIVERSITY DEAN’S LIST
— Tufts University recently announced the dean’s list for the fall 2025 semester. Dean’s list honors at Tufts University require a semester grade point average of 3.4 or greater. Sheza Chaudhry of East Longmeadow; Sam Mard, Roxanne Oh, Diya Patel and Maddie Brunette of Longmeadow; and Yvenarly Pierre-Louis of Wilbraham were named to the list.
Chance Animal Services. “Today, we have veterinarians trained in advanced techniques that allow us to perform a higher volume of surgeries in a single day without compromising care. These techniques reduce procedure time, which enhances safety by keeping pets under anesthesia for shorter periods. We have created a finely tuned process that allows us to offer affordable pricing while maintaining the highest standards of care. Our staff treats every patient like their own pet, and I am so proud of the work they do.”
Spaying or neutering a pet is one of the most important decisions a pet owner can make. In addition to preventing unwanted litters, it reduces the number of homeless animals entering shelters and increases the chances that a pet can remain in a loving home.
Every February, Spay and Neuter Awareness Month serves as a reminder that preventing pet homelessness starts before a litter
is born. By choosing to spay or neuter, pet owners play a direct role in creating healthier pets and stronger communities.
Low-cost spay and neuter services are offered at Second
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit: secondchanceanimals.org/spay-neuter/
Chance veterinary hospitals in North Brookfield, Southbridge, Springfield and Worcester.
Kate O’Toole of Longmeadow were named to the list.
JGS Lifecare
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — Longmead-
ow’s JGS Lifecare celebrated the grand reopening of Michael’s Cafe on Feb. 19. The cafe is designed as a centerpiece of the Sosin Center for Rehabilitation and named in honor of past Board Chair Michael Frankel, who died in 2013.
JGS Lifecare is a health care system that serves seniors and their families at 770 Converse St. It offers a variety of services, such as nursing home care, rehabilitation services, hospice care and assisted living.
“Michael’s Cafe is a lasting tribute to Michael Frankel, an extraordinary young man whose life was tragically cut short,” Vice President of Development Susan Halpernat said in a press release. “He was a cherished member of the JGS Lifecare organization and served as an inspiration to us all.”
JGS President Rob Whitten kicked off the grand reopening ceremony and said they’ve been working behind the scenes for the past few months to get Michael’s Cafe up and running again, with a fair price point for the staff, residents
and families in the community.
State Rep. Brian Ashe was in attendance and said he didn’t know Frankel well, but knew him well enough to know what a great, nice and earnest guy he was. He said his and Frankel’s daughters were best friends in school, and losing him was crushing to the entire community.
“It meant a lot when they saw what you guys did to recognize Michael and recognize what he meant to the community,” Ashe said. “It looks absolutely beautiful
over there. I loved the ambiance walking in here, it’s tucked away but it’s big enough. You can have a lot of people, but it’s still got that cozy feel to it.”
Ashe and Jennifer Pickering from State Sen. Jake Oliveira’s office recognized Michael’s Cafe with an official citation that states the cafe serves as a “lasting tribute to Michael Frankel, dedicated leader, longtime supporter and dear friend.”
Brian Zippin, a close friend of Frankel, spoke as well and said
Cafe
there weren’t enough good words about him, but that his greatest roles were friend, brother, son, husband and father, all of which he excelled at doing.
“He lived in the community and this organization was so fortunate to have him involved,” Zippin said.
“The Frankel name is generational here, as his father, Seymour, gave so much of himself before Mike got involved.”
He said that during Frankel’s term as chairman, there were so many accomplishments and that he
was one of the lucky ones who got to witness them. He added that the cafe’s staff is terrific and the food is served with a smile.
“Let’s stop in for a sandwich, for some soup, visit with a family member who may be here or just sit in this wonderful, bright and comfortable space,” Zippin said. Michael’s Cafe is open five days a week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Another ceremony is also planned for the spring to celebrate all donors who made Michael’s Cafe possible.
Longmeadow’s ‘Dueling Pianos’ offers a night out for parents
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — The Longmeadow Educational Excellence Foundation will be hosting “Dueling Pianos” on Feb. 28 at Twin Hills Country Club. The event features two pianists who take audience requests on songs for an interactive, high-energy show with cocktails, dancing and community spirit.
The event runs from 6-10
p.m., with the show beginning at 7 p.m., and the flyer states the dress code is “cocktail attire.”
LEEF is both a fundraising organization and a grant-making organization, composed of volunteers from the community who share a common passion for extraordinary public school education.
The organization said in a press release for the event that their mission is to “create and maintain a fund for the benefit of Longmeadow Public School
students.” The event is being held in support of “classroom innovation, new technology and creative learning experiences that benefit every Longmeadow student.”
“Dueling Pianos” is a night for parents to get out, kick their dancing shoes off and have some fun, according to LEEF Board Member Seth Stutman. He said there is a gala every year and Family Fun Fest for the past two years, but notes came back that said parents
wanted a fun night.
“It’s a night where you leave the kids at home,” Stutman said.
“I’ve never been to an event like this, to be honest, but it’s a night of fun. Get a babysitter and enjoy yourself.”
He said the event serves two purposes, to have a fund and a fundraiser. The event wil give parents a night out all while raising money for LEEF, funding grants to further educational programming for students in Longmeadow Public Schools.
In 2025, more than 30 grants were awarded by LEEF, totaling more than $100,000.
In the press release, Stutman said that “Dueling Pianos” might be the most entertaining evening of fun in Longmeadow in 2026 and that funds raised will directly help LPS teachers create experiences where the curriculum will jump off the page.
Tickets for “Dueling Pianos” can be purchased on LEEF’s website.
From left: The front counter of Michael’s Cafe, in honor of Michael Frankel, at JGS Lifecare in Longmeadow. President Rob Whitten kicks off the grand reopening ceremony.
Reminder Publishing photos by Peter Tuohy
Wilbraham native returning home with U.S. Navy Band
WASHINGTON — Minnechaug High School graduate Master Chief Musician Christopher Sala will return home with the United States Navy Concert Band for a performance on March 1 at 2 p.m. at Symphony Hall, 34 Court St., Springfield. The concert is free, but tickets can be reserved by visiting the band’s website: navyband.navy.mil/events/2026mar-1-symphony-hall.
Sala joined the United States Navy band after winning a national audition in 2021 as a trumpet instrumentalist, and reported to Washington, D.C., upon the completion of basic training. He steadily advanced over his 25year career and earned the rank of master chief, a distinction held by fewer than 1% of enlisted Sailors. Sala currently serves as principal trumpet for the Concert Band, the Navy’s premier concert ensemble, further distinguishing himself as one of the world’s best musicians. He earned two bachelor’s degrees from the Eastman School of Music, and a master’s from Florida State University.
As part of its 2026 Northeast tour celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States, the U.S. Navy Band will present a family-friendly concert designed to connect each community with their Navy. The program features a broad selection of musical works, from American classics to contemporary pieces. Selections include works by John Williams, Joseph Turrin, Alberto Ginastera, John Philip Sousa and Aaron Copland.
As the premier musical organization of the U.S. Navy, the United States Navy Band is honored to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, celebrating this historic milestone throughout the year by bringing the Navy where ships can’t go, telling the Navy story, instilling pride and patriotism, and representing the professionalism of hundreds of thousands of Sailors and Navy civilians serving around the world 24/7.
“Touring the nation and performing concerts means connecting with communities and telling the great stories of our sailors working around the globe to keep us safe and free,” said Capt. Robert “Seph” Coats, commanding officer of the U.S. Navy Band.
Here are some quick facts
about the U.S. Navy Band:
• The U.S. Navy Band is the flagship musical organization of the Navy and one of 11 Navy bands located around the world.
• The U.S. Navy Band is based at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C.·
• The Navy Band has been touring the country since 1925.
• There are six performing ensembles in the Navy Band: the Concert Band, Ceremonial Band, Sea Chanters chorus, Commodores jazz ensemble, Country Current country/bluegrass ensemble and the Cruisers popular music group.
• Ensembles from the Navy Band tour nationally 12-15 weeks each year. Sailors in the Navy Band are full-time professional musicians.
• Almost all of the Sailors in the Navy Band have undergraduate degrees in music, and most have graduate degrees.
Above, Master Chief Musician Christopher Sala (center) plays trumpet as part of the U.S. Navy Concert Band. At right, Master Chief Musician Christopher Sala. Reminder Publishing submitted photos
HAMPDEN/WILBRAHAM
Hampden continues to look over regional agreement
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
HAMPDEN — At the Hampden Selectboard meeting on Feb. 17, discussion continued on the regional agreement for governing the schools in the Hampden-Wilbraham Region School District and recent changes made.
One of the proposed changes made to the draft of regional agreement was to remove the section which states “when the district assigns students from any grade(s) from both member towns to a single school building, which single school building is a leased building, that building will be treated as a district-owned building and capital costs will be apportioned on the basis of the ratio that the number of students from each member towns bears to the total foundation enrollment from both member towns in the grades served by the school.”
In replacement of that section, the agreement now states in subsection E that “capital costs of district owned equipment and properties shall be apportioned to the member towns based on the ratio which that member’s town’s foundation enrollment, calculated on the basis of the member town’s combined three-year rolling average of foundation enrollment for grades served by that property for the member town, bears to the total foundation enrollment for all member towns in the district, calculated on the basis of a combined three-year rolling average of foundation enrollment for grades served by that property for all member towns.”
The agreement initially stated specifically for grades 9-12, but was revised to grades served by
the property.
Selectboard member Donald Davenport said a concern that Wilbraham has is being responsible for the capital repairs in the Massachusetts School Building Authority core program with Wilbraham Middle School because it is a town-owned building. He said that Wilbraham thinks Hampden’s position of not wanting to pay for capital costs deferred over the course of 10 years is “holding them hostage.” Chair John Flynn said he thought two things are being conflated.
“We never said, if they got into the core program and the core program said, ‘we’re going to totally renovate the Wilbraham Middle School for a new regional middle school,’ we never said we wouldn’t pay our part in that,” Flynn said. “Of course we would, it would be like getting a new school.”
Flynn said Hampden’s only problem has been the deferred maintenance cost of the middle school. Davenport said the rhetoric being used is “creating a narrative that Hampden isn’t paying
it’s fair share for students in that building, when in fact we are.”
“We pay 21% assessment to the region,” Davenport said. “So that means we pay 21% of the teachers’ salaries, the custodial salaries, the utilities, the lights, the insurance, the routine maintenance, the snow plowing and everything else in the building. Our only complaint or concern is, why should we pay for capital costs that should have been done 10 years ago on a building we don’t own?”
Another subsection of the agreement states the district will manage and pay for emergency capital projects that are not budgeted in the current year’s general fund budget.
Flynn said he doesn’t have a problem with subsection E per se because it discusses regional-owned properties, but he wondered how it “moved the goal line at all.” Davenport said it’s because the middle school isn’t a regional-owned property, to which Flynn said was his point.
“To whatever argument they think we have here, that doesn’t change anything,” Flynn said.
Davenport added that not changing anything is what concerns Wilbraham, because they want it changed and for Hampden to pay for things. The concern is that Hampden won’t partake in the core program or feasibility study.
Flynn made a point that the middle school program at Green Meadows closed officially in 2021, with all students moved into Wilbraham Middle School at that point. He compared it to renting
a house and how you shouldn’t have to put in a new driveway that’s been there for 25 years just because you’ve been there for four years. It was noted that the only change seems to allow for a district owned middle school.
Flynn read a letter from former Selectboard member Craig Rivest in reference to a discussion centered on the regional agreement during the Wilbraham Select Board meeting on Feb. 9. Rivest wrote that the Wilbraham Town Administrator Nick Breault referenced the possibility of removing Hampden students from the middle school because of their position on capital costs, suggesting that Wilbraham may need to say, “enough is enough.”
Rivest said that Wilbraham Select Board member Marc Ducey expressed that Wilbraham feels as though it is being “held hostage,” while also acknowledging that Hampden is not at fault for the situation, as it was the School Committee to allow Hampden transfers into Wilbraham. Flynn noted that it was the regional agreement that allowed it and the School Committee implemented it with both towns agreeing to.
He added that his position, as a former Selectboard member, is that “Hampden should not invest significant capital dollars to Band-Aid repairs for a building and property owned by another municipality, particularly one that had known deficiencies prior to its use as a regional facility.”
Flynn said he agreed with Rivest’s letter and that it did a good job summarizing where the Selectboard stands.
The Hampden Selectboard discusses revisions to the regional agreement on Feb. 17
Photo credit: Town of Hampden, MA YouTube
Arts in the Area: Local company to debut new film in Agawam
Local independent film production company Xposse Productions will release its new psychological thriller, “Dark Places,” on March 14 at Agawam Cinemas.
Written and directed by Geno McGahee, the film centers on college student Natalie Parker, who is managing anxiety and social challenges while navigating a new relationship with fellow student Jason Evans. When two professors are murdered, the pair become entangled in a confrontation with a satanic cult as they work to uncover those responsible.
The film is produced by Rick Caride, Matt Hebert, Eric Michaelian, Brent Northup, Lorrie Bacon and McGahee, with Gregory Hatanaka of Cinema Epoch serving as executive producer. McGahee also operates the horror review website ScaredStiffReviews.com, which he founded in 2006.
The ensemble cast includes Lindsey DeLand, Jake Whitlock, Lorrie Bacon, Phil Godek, Eric Michaelian and Gabbi Mendelsohn.
Following its theatrical release, “Dark Places” is expected to be made available on streaming platforms including Tubi, Fawesome and Amazon Prime Video. Ticket information for the Agawam Cinemas screening will be available through the theater.
Lumos Experience candlelight concert
St. Andrew’s Episcopal
Church in Longmeadow will host a Lumos Experience concert titled Step Into the Glow: A Vivaldi & Mozart Candlelight Experience on Friday, March 27.
The 60-minute performance will feature an ensemble of violin, viola and cello performing selections by Vivaldi and Mozart in a candlelit setting. Seating is limited to maintain an intimate atmosphere.
All tickets must be purchased in advance at lumosexperiences.com.
‘Hope and Glory’ production
On Saturday, Feb. 28, at 4 p.m., Young@Heart and Hope Center for the Arts will present “Hope and Glory,” a show that will combine the hope for the future as represented by the Hope Center’s students, faculty and staff at the newly renovated center in Springfield. The “lory represents the life and times of the recently deceased Evelyn Harris, who was a member of Young@ Heart for the last two-and-a-half years of her life.
Special guests for the show will include:
Members of Sweet Honey in the Rock, an all-female, African American a cappella ensemble that started in 1973. They are a three-time Grammy Award-nominated troupe who express their history as Black women through song, dance and sign language. Harris was a member of the group from 1974-1992.
Yasmeen Betty Williams, an American gospel singer and
former member of the Sweet Honey in the Rock from 1976 to 1986. After meeting in Sweet Honey in the ‘70s, Williams
remained Harris’ close friend for the remainder of her life. Kayla Staley, the director of vocal ensemble at the Hope Cen-
ter’s after school. Buy tickets at the Hope Center website, hopecenterforthearts.org/events/youngatheart.
Provisions Picks: Cotes-du-Rhone from the French Rhone valley
“What should I bring to dinner?” It’s a question that customers often ask us here at Provisions. In a perfect world, one can pair the wine to the food being served, but we may not always know what to expect as a guest. No one wants to commit a faux pas by bringing something that clashes with the food, and that’s where our favorite safe bet red wine comes in: Cotes-du-Rhone.
The Rhone valley lies in eastern France just south of Burgundy, and the region has a long history of winemaking dating back to the 600s BC. The region is generally separated into two sections: the northern Rhone, where single varietal Syrah reigns supreme, and the warmer southern Rhone, where blends of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre dominate the production. The south contains many prestigious appellations for these blends, most notably Chateauneuf-du-Pape an area promoted from obscurity to prestige during the Avignon Papacy. The overwhelming quantity of wine, however, comes in the form of the humble Cotesdu-Rhone and Cotes-du-Rhone Village appellations, which together account for more than half of the Rhone’s wine production. Literally translating to “hills of the Rhone,” these wines are produced throughout the south, and what they lack in prestige they
make up for in quality, approachability and value.
Always a red blend, Cotes-duRhone reds consist mostly of Grenache, a friendly and fruit-forward variety boasting high levels of ripeness and generally lower levels of tannin when grown in the lower altitude areas of the region. The blend is completed with Syrah, adding spice and tannin, and Mourvedre, which contributes earthy notes and inky color. This trifecta works so well together that you’ll see the combination used in wines of many other warm climate wine regions of the world, including California, Australia and South Africa. Together, these three varieties yield a wine that is medium bodied, dry, moderate to low tannin and food friendly with notes of berries and herbs. These wines pair great with chicken, burgers, pork dishes, hearty stews and most anything savory, but more importantly for the purposes of this article, they’re unlikely to clash with whatever your host may be cooking. So next time you’re running to the store for a bottle before a dinner party grab one of our favorites below.
Domaine La Manarine Cotesdu-Rhone Rouge ($19.99): Located in the southernmost tip of the region, La Manarine are meticulous organic farmers and take a hands off approach to
winemaking, preferring to let the grapes speak for themselves. Their rouge is a somewhat rare example of a 100% Grenache Cotes-du-Rhone, and as a result it offers a great deal of aromatic fruit along with a pleasant amount of herbal spice. A lush and delicious crowd pleaser.
Clos du Mont-Olivet Vielles Vignes Cotes-du-Rhone Rouge ($24.99): The Sabon family have been making the wines of Mont-Olivet since 1932 and are
great example of a traditional producer that isn’t afraid of new techniques. This wine is produced from three organically farmed parcels of 40-plus year old vines and primarily ages in a mix of concrete and old wood, allowing the wine to breath and develop without imparting substantial oak flavor. This wine is the biggest of the bunch, offering more tannin, earth and spice due to the age of the vines and the higher portion of Syrah
and Mourvedre. La Cabotte Cotes-du-Rhone Colline ($19.99): Grown in a higher altitude, cooler area of the region, this blend of Grenache and Syrah is farmed biodynamically by the d’Ardhuy-Plumet family. In the cellar, the wine is fermented and briefly aged in stainless steel with an eye towards preserving the grapes’ natural fruit and acidity. Medium-bodied, aromatic and bright enough to cut through fattier cuisine.
A scene from “Dark Places.”
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — City Council
President Tracye Whitfield will not step down from her position leading the city’s legislative body. At a Feb. 16 press conference on the steps of City Hall, Whitfield said that she respected Ward 6 Councilor Victor Davila’s opinion but would “respectfully and firmly decline” his call for her to give up the gavel.
“I made a mistake,” Whitfield said of failing to recuse herself from a matter she had financial and familial connections to. “I take full responsibility for my actions. It is my duty to understand the rules, especially those concerning conflicts of interest.” Despite having built a reputation of “integrity and service,” she said her “incomplete” understanding of the regulations “understandably raised concerns.”
Whitfield’s statements are the latest in the public fallout from a Feb. 2 meeting in which JETS Property Development, of which Whitfield and her son, Jelani Bland, were part-owners, petitioned the council to discontinue 600 square feet of land at the end of Wallace Street. The company planned to acquire the land with hopes of building it. Whitfield oversaw the discussion of the issue until Councilor Michael Fenton inquired whether she would recuse herself. She has said that she thought she was supposed to recuse herself from the vote only, and not the entire matter.
Whitfield contacted City So-
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — The owner of a fire ravaged home in the Forest Park Heights Historic District was told to fix his mistakes after he renovated the building without the approval of the Historical Commission or the proper permits.
The two-and-a-half-story home, which sustained heavy fire damage from the first floor through to the roof in 2022, was purchased by AAD, LLC the following year. Any exterior work on homes in the city’s historic districts must be approved by the Historical Commission, and it authorized the replacement of the building’s siding in 2023. Instead, the owners replaced the
licitor Stephen Buoniconti immediately following the meeting, and he issued an opinion two days later that she had violated the city’s rules and state conflict of interest law. After press conferences in which Whitfield admitted her error and several of her fellow councilors acknowledged the issue, a special meeting was held on Feb. 13 to rescind the vote. In the days since then, Buoniconti released more information about potential conflicts Whitfield was involved in.
At the meeting, many of the councilors spoke about ensuring the public trust in the City Council. Davila asked that Whitfield step down as president of the
siding, windows and front door, and refinished the cracked foundation. The chimney was also not replaced when the roof was fixed, which changes the look of the home.
Because the repair work has been completed, the commission had a choice. If the work was up to historical standards, they could approve it after the fact. Otherwise, they could instruct the owner to do it again the right way. The commission took the fire into account as a “hardship.”
Nick Dipon of AAD, LLC appeared before the commission and brought his nephew, Pavlo Yesenko, to translate, as English is not his first language. Commissioner Judith Crowell said the previous owner had come before the commission after the fire to
council in service of preserving that trust. If she did not, he said he would call for a vote of no confidence at the council’s Feb. 23 meeting. Whitfield later said that if Davila follows through on his intention to call for a no confidence vote, she believes that she has the support of most of her colleagues.
“Let me be clear, I have never intentionally used my position for personal gain,” asserted Whitfield. She admitted to contacting city staff and officials “to better understand certain processes,” taking part in city auctions and interceding on behalf of a constituent.
That constituent, Desi Jack-
undertake the same projects. She asked Dipon if he had permits for all the projects, but he said he only had one for the roof.
The commission took each item in turn, beginning with the chimney. Community Planning Director Andrew Strniste said the chimney had mostly collapsed along with much of the roof during the fire. Commission Chair Alfonso Nardi asked Dipon who had given permission for the chimney to be eliminated during roof repairs. Yesenko said he was “pretty sure” Strniste’s predecessor Alvin Allen “said it was okay.” Commissioner Vincent Walsh said Allen would not have had the authority to approve it.
When asked by Nardi, Dipon explained that the chimney had been attached to an unworking gas furnace, rather than a fireplace. Walsh told his colleagues that it would not be the first time the commission approved a homeowner not replacing a collapsed chimney. As it was a public hearing, Harry Seymour, chair of the Forest Park Civic Association Historic Committee, said he approved of the building without the chimney. Based on all the information, the commission approved the chimney elimination.
The building’s original foun-
son, had performed work for the Old Hill Neighborhood Council, and Whitfield said he was owed $13,000. After her involvement, she said Jackson was paid more than $10,000 of the compensation he was due. According to Buoniconti, in December 2025, Whitfield said she would encourage the city to audit the neighborhood council. Her intervention in the matter resulted in a complaint by Old Hill Neighborhood Council Vice President Awilda Sanchez.
Referring to Sanchez, Whitfield said, “If my words or actions caused her to feel targeted in any way, I sincerely apologize.” She insisted her comments about
dation was made of brick, but photos from just after the fire showed it had been given a “mortar rub finish,” Nardi said. After fixing cracks to the foundation, Dipon had applied a mesh and covered it with concrete stamped to look like stone, with a darker color between the “stones.”
Neighbor Ellen Gallagher said the foundation stands out from the rest of the neighborhood and can be seen from the street. Two other neighbors agreed. Walsh said he would not have approved it, but said he wanted to consider the hardship factor. Nardi agreed and said grinding off the finish could damage the bricks beneath it. He floated the idea of having the Dipon apply a new mortar rub finish over the concrete, but Walsh suggested having the owner paint the concrete a single color instead. Many historic homes have painted foundations, he said. The other commissioners agreed, as did Dipon.
The front door and windows were different stories. The 38 wood-framed windows throughout the house were replaced with vinyl windows that lacked any of the historic characteristics the commission was looking for. Walsh said that even diamond grid that had been applied to the
auditing the council were an attempt to “advocate for transparency and accountability” in the use of federal American Rescue Plan Act funding, which was used to pay for Jackson’s work and not a “threat,” as Buoniconti described in his findings.
“I believe all ARPA funding, whether awarded to neighborhood councils or other entities, should be audited to ensure transparency and responsible stewardship of public resources,” Whitfield said. The councilor also took exception to media coverage stat-
top floor windows to mimic the originals looked wrong. The paneled wood door had been damaged by fire and water, with the large glass pane shattered and damage to one of the bottom panels. It was replaced with an old door of a different style that Dipon had purchased used. The trim around the door had been made larger, making the door seem smaller than the previous one. Commissioner Kevin Coffee said it was not “like for like.” Neighbors again expressed disapproval. “We all own houses in the historical society,” said Christy Young. She said everyone who purchases a home in a historic district receives a letter explaining that they are required to have changes to the exterior approved, and added, “They didn’t follow the rules.” Seymour and Tom Gallagher agreed.
The commission ruled that Dipon had one month to return to the commission with a proposed replacement for the door. Once the commission approves it, he must have it installed withing three months. The windows were also deemed unacceptable, and Dipon was given similar instructions to return with an appropriate option for replacement.
City Council President Tracye Whitfield stands with more than 40 supporters after refusing to step down amid controversy.
Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
See WHITFIELD on page 11
ROCA receives $1.66M for anti-violence employment program
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Thanks to the congressional delegation from Massachusetts, the anti-violence organization ROCA received a $1.66 million earmark to continue its program that aims to stop violence through employment.
ROCA is an organization that engages with people aged 16 to 24 who are at extreme risk of violent crime, either as a victim or a perpetrator, those who are currently or have been incarcerated, girls and women at risk of sexual violence or of being trafficked. ROCA has five locations in Massachusetts, including two in the Pioneer Valley, as well as a site in Hartford and another in Baltimore, Maryland.
Dwight Robson, ROCA executive vice president of operations, said people do not seek help from ROCA. Instead, the organization uses an approach of “relentless outreach” to people who are referred to them by
Continued from page 10
ing Jackson is listed on the state’s sex offender registry. He had been convicted of child rape
police departments, correctional facilities and schools. ROCA clocked 130,506 engagements with young people in fiscal year 2025. Robson said almost all — 99% — of people enrolled with ROCA for 18 months or longer showed improved behavioral health, while 90% of those with the program for at least two years had no new arrests.
ROCA of Western Massachusetts Director Solomon Baymon said there are more than 200 young people in Springfield and Holyoke enrolled in ROCA, and the ability to help them comes down to building relationships.
People who have been referred to ROCA are assigned a mentor “youth worker.” Baymon said the youth workers usually reach out to the person in person eight or nine times, building trust with them, before they agree to come to ROCA and meet the rest of the team.
The transitional employment program helps people build hard
and indecent assault and battery on a person over age 14, but his record has since been sealed and he no longer appears on the registry. “Accuracy matters and so do public reputations,” Whitfield said. To ensure there are no conflicts
and soft skills by working with the city’s DPW or Parks & Recreation Department. People are assigned to a supervised crew, and behaviors are monitored and strictly enforced. If a person is written up four times, they are fired from the crew and work with their mentor to explore what behaviors led to the firing. Baymon said that after they sign a safety contract, they are reassigned to a crew. He said people go through seven of these cycles before they are hired by one of ROCA’s outside partners.
“It takes support from the village,” he said. “To bring one young person through our program takes a lot of work and time.”
Baymon previously worked in a correctional facility and said one of the biggest problems people face when released is, “How am I going to get money? I have a record now.” The temporary employment program helps solve that issue, while also teaching the young people how
in the future, Whitfield said she has taken several steps. Most notably, she has resigned as a managing agent from JETS Property Development and vowed to not do business with the city during the remainder of her time as an elected official. She also said she
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
Barbara A. Betournay
Lois A. Gagne
Christos Lolos
Robert J. Lukasik Sr.
Jeannette M. Marceau
Joseph P. Ramah Jr.
Cecile L. Vincelette
John C. Wrzesien
EAST LONGMEADOW
Joan M. Hirsh
Margaret A. Miller
Ronald E. Moody
Sarah L. Pendleton
Dolores M. Scibelli
Steven J. Valentino Jr.
HOLYOKE
Lorraine F. Janis
Patricia Palmer
Herman A. Sutter Jr.
Virginia R. Zabowski
INDIAN ORCHARD
Alan A. Dargis Sr.
Daniel J. Salamon
LONGMEADOW
Judith A. Allen
James W. Henrikson
Frank S. Podgurski
LUDLOW
Kathleen V. Garand
Ruth F. Pancotti
SOUTH HADLEY
Peter A. Gagne
Hugh Parker Hutton Gaetano J. Milano
Tessie O’Neill
Robert J. Valenti
SPRINGFIELD
Thomas M. Belton
Raymond N. Dagenais Jr.
Dr. Veronica Harnois (D’Urso)
Frank Lango
Leon A. Lemieux
Dolores P. Santinelli
Annie Ruth Tatum
Michael Barry Wiener
Steven Wilson
WILBRAHAM
Deborah Ann Gero
Bowman Dean Franklin Milner Sr.
Danielle Paige
the interpersonal skills to conduct themselves in a workplace without resorting to violence to solve issues. ROCA also helps people find permanent employment through job fairs. Baymon said the most recent job fair saw nine employers participate, and two people have been hired since the job fair hosted before that.
Baymon shared that he had just spoken to a young person who had been enrolled in ROCA before he had to return to prison to finish his sentence. They told him that what they had learned from the program helped them make better decisions while inside and that they could not wait to continue the program” to get his life together for his daughter.
Baymon said it is a sentiment he has heard multiple times.
ROCA is funded through a mix of sources, but 61% of its funding is through federal, state and local governments. Robson said that $4 million in unspent federal grants were canceled last
has reviewed the law and rules with the City Council counsel to confirm that she understands them. Whitfield confirmed that councilors are required to undergo conflict-of-interest training regularly. Buoniconti stated that he had shared the rules regarding conflicts as recently as the council’s swearing in in January.
year. Half of that money was slated for Western Massachusetts programs. As a result, about 25 positions went unfilled and another 25 people were laid off. Baymon said it impacted young people, who had built relationships with the employees, only to have them suddenly gone. “A lot of these young people are used to people coming and going in their lives,” he said. Robson added, “These young people who have been let down so many times” told him it felt like a “gut punch” to have their youth workers leave.
“In the wake of the U.S. Department of Justice’s abrupt termination of three ROCA grants last year, we are enormously grateful to have earned the trust of Senators [Ed] Markey and [Elizabeth] Warren, who requested this funding in the Senate, as well as Congressman [Richard] Neal,” Robson said. “We are fortunate to have them championing our work in Congress.”
However, Whitfield said she did not receive them. She also said she is working to implement regular training on the state’s Open Meeting Law.
Whitfield, who contacted the state Ethics Commission the day after the bungled recusal, said she would answer questions from the body. The commission is charged with reviewing or investigating potential violations of state law regarding elected officials, including conflicts of interest. If it finds cause, it can compel officials to pay a civil penalty of not more than $10,000 for each violation.
Among the more than 40 people who attended the press conference to support Whitfield was School Committee member Rosa Valentin. “I do support Tracye in this,” she said. “As a School Committee member, I’m new. That could be me one day. We’re human beings. We all make mistakes. What is important is how you handle it.”
Drew Ellerbrook led the Spartans with 22 points.
Longmeadow’s
Stula
Gus Glasser (R) snares the rebound as his EL teammate Dean Dagnoli looks
Mo Chin breaks the ball out of the East Longmeadow end.
Zion Jean-Michel (R) from East Longmeadow vies for the ball with Agawam’s Daniel Mascarenhas.
Dean Dagnoli hits the floor to compete for the loose ball.
Cormac Byrne (5) battles for the missed shot.
Jacob Romano wins the opening tap.
Robert Pantera leads the East Longmeadow fast break.
the Hampden Senior Center located at 104 Allen Street, Hampden, MA 01036 The Invitation for Bids may be obtained by ema ling townadmin@hampdenma gov Sealed bids are due on or before 1:00 pm on March 26 2026 and will be opened reviewed and
of the
(February 26) Request for Qualifications (RFQ) RFQ for Trade Contractors:
& Elevator Longmeadow Middle School
The Town of Longmeadow on behalf of Longmeadow Public Schools is soliciting Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Trade Contractors for prequa ification of experienced and qua ified Sub-Contractors to submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) for the construction of the
Papers: Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Villanova St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only) LONGMEADOW - HOOK DELIVERY THURSDAY
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