Neal, transportation officials deliver update on Compass Rail
U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and state officials joined legislators from Worcester County, the Berkshires and the Pioneer Valley at a roundtable to discuss updates to Compass Rail.
EAST LONGMEADOW
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Organization looks to delay smartphone use in kids
East Longmeadow’s chapter of the national “Wait Until 8th” movement is working hard to “let kids be kids a little longer,” according to Natalee Georgantas, the chapter’s leader.
LONGMEADOW
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Resident to run for Dana-Farber one last time
Stephanie O’Leary is hanging up the laces after the Boston Marathon.
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Sheriff’s Dept. funding woes end many partnerships
By Sarah Heinonen and Tyler Garnet sheinonen@thereminder.com tgarnet@thereminder.com
Municipal police departments around Hampden County have long received help from the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, but Sheriff Nick Cocchi recently announced that his department can no longer fund those partnerships. The Sheriff’s Department is facing the loss of $26.5 million that was cut from its fiscal year 2026 allocation from the state.
Hampden County Sheriff’s Department Director of Communications Robert Rizzuto said Hampden County is not alone. Sheriffs’ departments across the state have lost roughly $100 million in expected funding. The cessation of partnerships with municipal police departments was framed as the first phase of cuts, reducing the workforce by 50 positions and saving about $4 million.
“The Legislature is quite clear; they do not think law enforcement support in these communities is worth funding. Not our delegation,” Rizzuto said, referring to the state senators and representatives from Hampden County, “legislative leadership — they have their own priorities.”
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno discusses the importance of the city’s partnership with the Sheriff’s Department in patroling Forest Park during a 2023 press conference as former Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood and Sheriff Nick Cochi listen. Behind them are members of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Unit.
Rizzuto said the commonwealth is under financial constraints, largely due to cuts in federal spending. Massachusetts lost $3.7 billion in federal funding last year, with about $3.3 billion in cuts included in the One Big Beautiful Bill and $398.9 million cut by the Trump administration. The cuts included $96.9 million in funding for public safety and security. Across the county, 26 POST-certified deputies regularly staffed 28 shifts to reinforce agencies with insufficient personnel. These staffing gaps will no longer be filled, unless paid or reimbursed by the agency or municipality. The Sheriff’s Department filled specific roles in some communities.
Among the municipalities that the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department had been supporting are Springfield, Chicopee, West Springfield and Holyoke.
“The sheriff’s presence was an asset to our community, allowing us to concentrate on calls for service and traffic enforcement in other areas of town.” said West Springfield Police Chief Jay Gearing. The Sheriff’s Department had provided targeted speeding details and traffic patrols, as well as patrols of Bear Hole Reservoir and the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway.
“The Police Department will have to cover the reduction in coverage provided by the sher-
iff. The positions will not be unfilled,” Gearing said. “The sheriff’s absence will be felt more as a reduction in services,” but he assured, “West Springfield will continue to be a safe place to live and visit based on our current patrol model.”
Springfield Police Department Public Information Officer and Media Relations Specialist Ryan Walsh told a similar story about the impact on that city. The Sheriff’s Department will no longer pro-
Reminder Publishing file photo
See SHERIFF on page 5
Neal, transportation officials deliver update on Compass Rail
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and state officials joined legislators from Worcester County, the Berkshires and the Pioneer Valley at a roundtable to discuss updates to Compass Rail, the state’s ambitious plan to connect Boston, New York City, Albany, New York, Connecticut and Vermont with a passenger rail.
Much of the conversation focused on West-East Rail, which would create round trips from Boston, through Worcester, Palmer, Springfield, Pittsfield, to Albany. At Springfield’s Union Station, passengers would be able to connect to north-south routes that would build off the existing Amtrak Vermonter, Valley Flyer and Hartford Line/Northeast Regional. Amtrak is one of the partners involved in the Compass Rail expansion, and Massachusetts Department of Transportation Rail Administrator Meredith Slesinger said Amtrak was “a really good partner for us.”
Currently, there are no round trips between Worcester and Springfield, or Springfield and Pittsfield. There are three round trips from Springfield to Greenfield and nine from Springfield to New York City, via Hartford and New Haven, Connecticut. Despite the limited service, there are 230,000 trips on existing Massachusetts rail lines each year, with trips from Springfield to New York City representing the largest percentage of these.
Phase I will begin in 2030, with the Inland Route, a line that will include two round trips from Boston to Springfield to New Haven. In 2033, a station is set to be built in Palmer, and proposed enhancements to the Hartford Line will increase the number of round trips between Springfield and New Haven to 16. To reach this milestone, there will need to be an enhanced New Haven layover, in conjunction with the Connecticut Department of
Transportation. Operating costs are expected to increase by $3.5 million to $15 million annually.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation expects ridership numbers in Massachusetts to reach 575,000 per year.
Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager Phillip Eng jokingly quoted the movie “Field of Dreams,” saying, “If you build it, they will come.”
In 2045, Phase III will bring full service to West-East Rail, with five round trips between Boston and Springfield and two between Springfield and Albany. To accommodate the new traffic, Boston’s South Station will be expanded, two or three additional trainsets will be purchased, and track infrastructure upgrades will be needed along the West-East Rail tracks.
West-East Rail Director Andy Koziol noted, “The work may not always happen in Western Massachusetts,” but projects in various locations will make the whole expansion possible.
Eight projects are underway to prepare for the next decade of changes. Koziol said, “These projects grew upon each other.” They include first steps of the Inland Route, the Boston & Albany Corridor ID Program and track reconfigurations in Springfield. Planning and design work for the Palmer Station and a second platform in Pittsfield is in the works.
The CSX railroad crossing in West Springfield, which has long led to traffic delays, will receive a flyover rail bridge. Finally, a passive crossing improvement project is slated for Longmeadow. Koziol explained that some of the projects include straightening stretches of track, adding a second track or changing the signaling system.
Funding for the rail upgrades has been sourced from state, federal grants and earmarks, and through Amtrak. Slesinger said the expansion is “very reliant on discretionary grants.” To date,
$157 million has been secured in federal rail grants, including $108 million from the Federal Railroad Administration in 2024 to plan, design and construct the Inland Route. A $3.5 million grant paid for the identification of
service levels and needed capital projects for the Boston and Albany Corridor. An award of $36.8 million is pending from the Federal Railroad Administration for the final design of the Springfield track reconfigurations.
After the roundtable, Neal, Slesinger and Koziol announced a $1.2 million federal earmark for Knowledge Corridor Positive Train Control design, which
Top, U.S. Rep. Richard Neal announced a $1.2 million federal earmark for Knowledge Corridor Positive Train Control design on Platform C at Springfield’s Union Station on April 1. Below, from left: An Amtrak train pulls into Springfield’s Union Station in advance of U.S. Rep. Richard Neal announcement of a $1.2 million federal earmark for Knowledge Corridor Positive Train Control design. A graphic outlines eight Compass Rail projects underway.
Reminder Publishing photos by Sarah Heinonen, Chris Maza
Please email your community listings to: dhackett@thereminder.com Items are printed on a space available basis.
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.
Adult programs:
The Needlework Network — Wednesday, April 15, at 3 p.m.
Teen programs: Fandom Club — Monday, April 13, ar 2:30 p.m.
Children’s programs:
• Preschool Storytime — Monday, April 13, at 10 a.m. For ages 3-6.
• Wiggles & Giggles — Wednesday, April 15, at 10 a.m. Ror ages 2-3
Let’s Get Messy — Thursday, April 16, at 10 a.m. For ages 2-4.
Children’s Book Groups:
Book Buddies kindergarten and first grade book group — Wednesday, April 15, 4:305:30 p.m. This month’s book is “Too Many Carrots” by Katy Hudson.
Bookworms Book Group grade 2 — Wednesday, April 15, 4:30-5:30 p.m. This month’s book is “Narwhal’s School of Awesomeness” (A
Compass Rail
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Slesinger said is required under federal law and Eng called “critical technology.”
“This earmark is just the latest round of funding in what has been a sustained federal investment in passenger rail over the last several years,” said Neal. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was written in the Ways and Means Committee during my time as chairman, which is why I take great satisfaction in seeing Massachusetts continuing
TOWN EVENTS
Narwhal and Jelly Book #6 ).
PLEASANT VIEW SENIOR CENTER
The following events will be hosted at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main St. For more information or to register, call 413-525-5436.
• Volunteer Fair — Thursday, April 16, from 10 a.m. to noon. Stop in to see what volunteer opportunities await you in East Longmeadow and the surrounding communities! Enjoy light refreshments, enter to win a door prize and leave with a list of nonprofits looking for volunteers.
HAMPDEN
HAMPDEN SENIOR CENTER
The following events are organized by the Hampden Senior Center, 104 Allen St. For more information or to register for programs, call 413-566-5588.
Derby Hat Making Day — Tuesday, April 14, from 1-3 p.m. Cost is $7. All materials will be provided. Registration is required.
Intergenerational Program with Green Valley Preschool — Bubble Mania! — Tuesday, April 15, at 9:30 a.m. The Hampden Senior Center is excited to once again provide an intergenerational opportunity for the Senior Center Community and our friends at Green Valley Preschool.
• Do you have a financial planning question or concern? Pat Sherman from Edward Jones — Wednesday, April 15, from 9-11 a.m. This is a free service.
to realize the benefits of our historic efforts.”
An additional $173.2 million in grants for maintenance modernization for Springfield’s tracks are being sought.
After presenting the updates to Compass Rail, the state officials took questions from the legislators and stakeholders in the room.
State Rep. Kelly Pease, who represents Westfield and Southampton, asked if any additional stops would be added between Springfield and Pittsfield. Koziol said none are currently planned, but a study is planned to help determine need.
www.TheReminder.com
• Memory Café: Drumming with Jason — Friday, April 17, at 10:15 a.m.
• Celebrate National Pickleball Ball Month: Lunch and Learn — Friday, April 17, at noon. Suggested donation of $3 per person to GSSSI for lunch. If you are thinking about playing pickleball or you’re already an expert player, come and celebrate National Pickleball Month with the center.
GARDEN CLUB
HAMPDEN
MEETING
The Hampden Garden Club will be hosting Dan Ziomek from Sugarloaf Gardens on Thursday, April 16th, at 7 pm. Ziomek will be presenting his program Backyard Orchards. The program will be at the club’s new meeting location at the Town Hall (formerly Thornton W. Burgess Middle School), 85 Wilbraham Road, Room A7. Guests are asked to use the library entrance. There is a $5 fee for non-members of the garden club. Ziomek will discuss growing fruit trees and other fruit bearing plants in our backyards. His talk will include tree selection, pruning and pest control. This is Ziomek’s 39th year in horticulture and he will share his experiences with fruit growing. New members are welcome. The membership fee for the year is $15 and includes admission to all programs.
EARTH PUTTER DAY
The Hampden Garden Club will be meeting at the Hampden Senior Center, 104 Allen St., on Saturday, April 18, at 9 a.m. for earth putter day. The club will be weeding and sprucing up the gardens at the Senior Center and the gazebo at
State Sen. Jake Oliveira, representing the Hampden, Hampshire and Worcester District, asked if it was possible to construct the Palmer station earlier than it is now planned. Koziol said the right funding opportunity would be needed. “Things can change quickly, especially when dealing with federal funding,” he said. Plans for the Palmer station have not been finalized, but Koziol said it is “more real than it’s ever been.”
State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier, representing Pittsfield, asked about a route through the northern Berkshires. Slesinger said right-
the Hampden Town Hall from 9-11
a.m. Club members are asked to bring their garden tools to the clean-up.
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.
Youth programs:
• BOLT: Board of Library Teens — Monday, April 13, 4:30-5 p.m. Teens in grades 9-12 are you looking to volunteer at the library? Then join BOLT! The Board of Library Teens is the spot to make a difference for our community. The group will meet monthly to help plan events, programs and displays. These gatherings are also a great chance for everyone to hangout, have fun, and get to know each other!
• First Line Book Club (grades 2-3) — Tuesday, April 14, 3:30-4 p.m. This month’s book selection is “City Under the City” by Dan Yaccarino.
• Bananas for Books Club (kindergarten and grade 1) — Wednesday, April 15, 3:30-4 p.m. This month’s book selection is “Piccolo” by Dan Yaccarino Upcycled Art — Thursday, April 16, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Reuse materials to create new works of art! Elementary aged children are invited to learn all the ways to create upcycled art.
of-way track ownership between multiple entities increases the difficulty of planning such a route. Referring to the partnerships between MassDOT, Connecticut Department of Transportation, Amtrak and CSX, Eng said, “The public doesn’t care” which agency runs the transportation, only that it is “seamless.”
“No matter where you are, transportation is essential,” said Eng, and “rail is a key component.” Eng also emphasized the need to shorten trips and an express service. “If we want to have further distances, we have to have faster trips,” he said.
Eng said that every $1 billion spent on transportation supports 40,000 jobs. He lauded Neal’s efforts to have CSX rail cars released from U.S. Customs, which
• Let’s Laugh Book Club (grades 4-5) — Friday, April 17, 3:30-4 p.m. This month’s book selection is “The Cartoonists Club” by Raina Telgemeier and Scott McCloud. Adult programs: Loosely Bound Book Club Afternoons — Tuesday, April 14, 1:30-2:30 p.m. This month’s selection is “Hester” by Laurie Lico Albanese.
• Houseplants 101 with Blackstone Valley Veggie Gardens — Tuesday, April 14, 6:307:30 p.m. Grow houseplants to make you happy, clean your air and beautify your home. We will review several of the easiest plants to grow and will also learn to identify common plant-growing problems.
• Library Virtual Speakers: On Writing Action-Packed and Suspenseful Spycraft with Brad Taylor — Tuesday, April 14, 7-9 p.m.
• Informational Table: Mass Save Program with Home Works Energy — Wednesday, April 15, 2-5 p.m. Home Works Energy will be available to discuss Mass Save benefits.
LONGMEADOW ADULT CENTER
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 413565-4160 option 1.
• The Struggle for Equality in the United States — April 14th at 6 p.m. The American Revolution — April 16th at 6 p.m.
had them impounded for the better part of a year due to concerns over forced labor. The allegations have since been cleared, and the cars were released.
In a press release about the Compass Rail update, Gov. Maura Healey said, “West-East rail is about more than transportation. It is about connecting people to jobs, education and opportunity across our state. Our administration has made this a priority because stronger rail connections mean a stronger economy for every region of Massachusetts. I’m grateful to Congressman Neal for his continued partnership in advancing this work and helping move this investment forward as we deliver reliable, modern rail service that people can count on.”
April 19–25, 2026
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vide personnel to serve restraining orders during the day shift, which it has done since 2023. Instead, Walsh explained, Springfield police will take over issuing those 10 to 20 restraining orders per day, as they do on other shifts.
The Sheriff’s Department has had a permanent presence in Forest Park, often including the mounted units, since 2020, and Walsh said that their high visibility was useful. Now, the park will be included in regular patrols of the area, and bike units will patrol the park in the summer months.
The relatively new Safe Travels program, begun in September 2025, saw officers from the Springfield Police Department, Sheriff’s Department and Amtrak Police Department collaborate to have a dedicated presence at Union Station. With the end of Sheriff’s Department participation, Walsh said, “We’re just losing a handful of personnel there.”
Walsh said the changes were not expected to affect the Police Department’s budget. Some overtime hours may be redirected to cover the bike patrol units. Walsh said he did not believe the other ways in which the Sheriff’s Department supports the Springfield Police Department would be affected by the cuts. These include having deputies assigned to warrant teams and the transfer of
some arrested individuals to the Hampden County Correctional Center in Ludlow. In Holyoke, the Sheriff’s Department has regularly assigned deputies to assist the Holyoke Police Department during large events such as the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race and Parade.
Additionally, the sheriff typically has two deputies who run programs to connect at-risk individuals with addiction recovery and treatment resources. During the last fiscal year, that unit recorded 2,857 successful outreach contacts, 1,049 referrals and transported 338 people to treatment and Medication Assisted Treatment programs.
Those positions will no longer be staffed unless the city funds them, according to the Sheriff’s Department.
Holyoke Police Chief Brian Keenan said the announcement came as a surprise.
“I was shocked,” Keenan said. “Our mantra here is doing more with less, so we’ll get through it. My concern is the recovery center where our detectives go out with sheriff’s deputies and meet with people [who] have overdosed. It’s going to be a little more challenging to get done, but we will.”
Keenan said he is concerned about the future of the Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Basketball Program, which is funded and staffed by the Sheriff’s Department.
“I’m hoping that won’t go and
starve because that really helps a ton of kids that don’t have a lot of other things to do,” he said.
He added that the city could also lose community service support provided by the Sheriff’s Department, including maintenance work at municipal buildings. “They do a great job helping with municipal buildings and cleaning up, painting, and really filling the gap where DPW work needs to be done with the community service stuff,” Keenan said.
Other programs could be affected by these cuts at the Sheriff’s Department, according to Keenan, including a couple that were introduced last year.
In July 2025, Holyoke and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office launched an After Incarceration Support Systems satellite office at 310 Appleton St., bringing reentry and support services closer to city residents. The programs included Holyoke Police Department’s Street Outreach Program, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department’s All Inclusive Support Services for formerly incarcerated individuals, and Holyoke’s Community Response Advocate, a newly created position providing guidance, referrals, support services and answers to individuals with questions or difficulties.
Keenan said the location has made services more accessible, and the AISS program has been especially valuable.
“It makes it a lot easier because somebody getting out of jail
doesn’t necessarily have a license or transportation,” he said. “If you live in Holyoke and have to take two buses to Springfield, it’s going to take you four hours.”
Although he stated you can’t always quantify wins and losses, Keenan credited those sheriff-supported programs for reducing overdose deaths in the city.
“The reduction of overdose deaths, which was 18% last year, is directly attributed to a lot of the programs the Sheriff’s Department funds and works in conjunction with the Holyoke Police Department,” Keenan said.
The Holyoke Police Department will look for grant funding to help offset these service losses that were announced, according to Keenan. He said the recent developments may also affect overtime spending.
“It certainly won’t be optimal, but we’ll limp through it,” he said.
Keenan shared a message to the residents who may be affected by the loss of programs and reaffirmed his support for Cocchi and his department.
“Your city is safe. Holyoke Police officers work hard for you; we’re out there 24 hours a day, and we support the Hampden County Sheriff,” Keenan said. “We’re thankful for our partnership with Nick Cocchi. We’re confident he’ll get through this. I’ve known Sheriff Cocchi for 32 years. He’s an incredibly resilient person, an incredibly smart person, and if anybody can figure this out, he
can. He’ll get through this, we’ll get through this.”
Chicopee also finds itself in a difficult situation following the cuts. The Sheriff’s Department currently staffs three full-time analysts at the city’s Real-Time Information Center, a five-person operation that uses camera networks and AI-assisted software to support investigations and public safety efforts across Hampden County. Additionally, POST-certified deputies serve 209A restraining orders in Chicopee and act as force multipliers when city patrol staffing is down. Those positions will no longer be filled unless reimbursed by the city or another agency.
Travis Odiorne, speaking on behalf of Interim Police Chief Eric Watson, said the department would not comment further at this time.
“I spoke to the chief about this, and he feels that everything was covered in the sheriff’s news conference and doesn’t want to make any comments on it,” Odiorne said. “Since the cuts mainly affect the sheriff’s office, he believes all comments should come from his office.”
While the potential for further rounds of cuts certainly exists, Rizzuto said, “We’re hoping we don’t have to. We’re waiting to see what happens with the budget” which the Legislature is working currently on. “We’re hoping for a dialog with the governor’s office.”
Organization looks to delay smartphone use in kids
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — East
Longmeadow’s chapter of the national “Wait Until 8th” movement is working hard to “let kids be kids a little longer,” according to Natalee Georgantas, the chapter’s leader.
The movement works to bring parents together to delay giving smartphones to their kids until the end of eighth grade. This isn’t a complete ban on introducing kids to technology, only a delay of smartphones to allow kids to connect with one another again without the constant screentime.
Georgantas has been an emergency medicine physician assistant for 14 years and said she noticed how much smartphones have affected the mental health of both kids and adults.
She added she felt something needed to be done because “giving kids a smartphone has become commonplace” and “information out there is showing how detrimental smartphones are to the growing brain,” Georgantas said.
She said a friend had sent her Wait Until 8th’s information and found out how to open a local chapter. She started with a social media page to get the word out and then began creating flyers, which have been distributed to families with students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
“My goal is that we would come together as a community, you know, this would help our kids thrive,” Georgantas said. “I’m totally okay with like, okay give your kid a basic flip phone or a Gizmo watch. It’s really just the internet and social media that we’re trying to stay away from.”
The chapter’s parent resource guide states that smartphones can bring cyberbullying, are distracting and addicting, and increase risk for anxiety and depression. It is looking for parents to sign the Wait Until 8th East Longmeadow
pledge, which intends to encourage more families to delay giving their child a smartphone.
She added that she has a friend who works at Mountain View School who sees how smartphones can cause bullying or impact focus each day, and that all of the district’s principals are on board.
The pledge can be found at waituntil8th.org and becomes active once 10 or more families from the grade and school sign.
Wait Until 8th also held its first tabling event at Birchland Park Middle School on March 25, which Georgantas said allowed families to connect, ask questions and begin signing the pledge. She added that one parent said that they wanted to wait on a smartphone but felt pressure because “everyone else has one.”
I got a really good response, like families across multiple grades,” Georgantas said. “I have already signed the pledge, and I feel like once one family commits, others feel more comfortable joining.”
This initiative would help remove that pressure with help and momentum from the community, while also helping to relieve the feeling of being left out some kids might feel if they don’t have a smartphone while all of their friends or classmates do.
“I just want to stress to the parents, it’s like, I’m not here to judge, I want to educate,” Georgantas said. “When your kids get a smartphone, you’re giving them access to more than you know. We tend to be overprotective in the real world and underprotective online.”
Georgantas added that “we as parents should also be conscious of their own uses of smartphones because children model our behavior.”
She added that she would love to give her kids the same childhood she grew up in, even if it isn’t feasible with existing technology.
“I recently got the kids a land-
“If we say ‘don’t be on a phone,’ but we’re sitting there scrolling, that’s what they see and that’s what they’re gonna want to do,” Georgantas said. “We need to be models, you know, good role models for them, even myself.”
line and am trying to teach them basic things, like ‘oh you can call granny or if you need to get a hold of mom, you can call me here,’” Georgantas said. “It’s just teaching them that kind of, what we had in the 90’s and early 2000’s that doesn’t even exist anymore, but my son is so excited because
it’s still access, he can still call.” Georgantas is looking to get the word out more on Wait Until 8th and is having families who sign the pledge put magnets on their car with the chapter’s logo. She added that any local businesses are welcome to help by putting the flyer up, as well.
State, feds staffing up for public benefits fraud fight
By Ella Adams State House News Service
BOSTON — With federal prosecutors pledging that anti-fraud investigations will lead to results soon, state health and human services officials are adding more staff to those who are already guarding against public benefit fraud in anticipation of an increase in federal audits.
“We just expect that the amount of audits and requests that we’re going to get is probably going to double to triple over the next few months,” Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah told lawmakers at a budget hearing in Clinton on March 27.
Warren Republican state Rep. Todd Smola asked fraud-related questions during the Ways and Means Committee hearing, referring to a recently-established Task Force to Eliminate Fraud led by Vice President JD Vance.
“Massachusetts is on the radar screen,” Smola said. “I’m a little bit discouraged to see some of the commentary from the governor relative to the level of cooperation that’s going to happen here.”
The Trump administration is targeting Medicaid fraud, and the House Energy and Commerce Committee requested information related to Medicaid from 10 states, including Massachusetts, California, Colorado, Maine, Nebraska, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont and Washington. Energy and Commerce Chair Brett Guthrie’s office stated that “each of these states displayed concerning cases of Medicaid fraud over the last several years.”
Healey has maintained that MassHealth, the Department of Transitional Assistance and other agencies have strong program integrity operations.
“If we have nothing to hide, relative to program integrity and how our programs get rolled out in this commonwealth, then we should have no problem cooperating,” Smola said. He asked Mah-
aniah for assurance that the state will cooperate with the federal government.
“We’re very proud of the amount of activities that we do under program integrity, in terms of both pre-paying — what we do in terms of monitoring our prepay through algorithms and making sure that there’s nothing weird showing up — and how we credential and monitor our vendors and our providers, but in also how we do audits and post-pay claim reviews,” Mahaniah replied.
“I think it’s unavoidable that we will be collaborating quite extensively with the federal government,” Mahaniah continued. “In terms of the way that the agencies and our secretariats work, we are pretty much hand-in-glove in terms of how we administer these programs. The federal rules and regulations form the backbone of what we are allowed to do and how we do it through the 1115 waiver that MassHealth has.”
The state’s five-year MassHealth waiver expires at the end of 2027. MassHealth plans to submit a request to extend its waiver in late 2026. Among other changes surrounding Medicaid that will be ushered in under provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill, MassHealth will be required to check eligibility for certain members and require work, education or volunteering for some.
Mahaniah noted “up-staffing” within his secretariat to help with program integrity efforts after Smola asked if he needed anything from the Legislature to help.
“We just need to have the right amount of people and right amount of technology to be able to answer these requests,” Mahaniah said. “They tend to have two or three weeks’ turnaround, so just making sure that we don’t have any choke points in terms of staff and resources.”
Mahaniah added that MassHealth Undersecretary Mike Levine reminds him that in “normal conditions,” they have be
tween 10 and 12 audits ongoing.
“Given just the political nature of things, we expect to undergo many more audits than usual, and you’ve read in the media that we’ve had some back and forth,” Mahaniah said. “But so far, we have been completely open in terms of what we do.”
The deadline to respond to the Trump administration’s Medicaid-related request was March 17. The state sent a 41-page letter, signed by Mahaniah, in response to Guthrie, Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Chair John Joyce and Health Subcommittee Chair Morgan Griffith.
The letter included answers to questions including those about specific program integrity measures in place to prevent fraud, waste and abuse in the state’s Medicaid system; the process for making criminal referrals for suspected fraud to law enforcement; the programs that have seen abnormal increases in recent years; site visits; and details about Medicaid overpayments and recoveries.
Mahaniah wrote that program controls include analytics, prepay review and post-pay provider audits, and coordination with law enforcement. The letter states that over the last three years, those fraud, waste and abuse prevention activities “have included over 1,200 individual provider audits and claim record reviews as well as 88 algorithmic claim data reviews,” many of which recur annually.
MassHealth has a designated Audit Response and Fraud Enforcement team, per the letter, which receives allegations of fraud from staff and external stakeholders, submits referrals to the state’s Medicaid Fraud Division and keeps MassHealth leadership informed of those referrals.
“MassHealth refers credible allegations of fraud to MFD and implements payment suspensions. When MassHealth imposes a payment suspension, it issues a notice of withhold to the provid-
er, directs its accounting systems to stop payments, and instructs MassHealth managed care plans to suspend payments to the provider,” the letter said, explaining steps taken to sanction or disenroll fraudulent Medicaid providers.
The letter also inquired about overpayments. In 2025, total overpayments included $165.3 million, Mahaniah wrote. Those overpayments exclude fraud-related payments that are reported by the division, he clarified. At an earlier budget hearing in March, Transitional Assistance Commissioner Michael Cole also made a distinction between fraud and the overpayments and underpayments accounted for within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payment error rate, another metric the federal government is focused on lowering.
Since provider audits and recoveries can span across years, the recovery and recoupment totals of improper Medicaid overpayments won’t match with the identified overpayments, the letter said. In 2025, there were $117.1 million in total recoveries and recoupments. The majority of MassHealth’s controls operate before payment, according to the letter, which means “a significant share of improper payments are stopped before dollars go out the door, ensuring that they never have to enter the payment recovery pipeline.”
Since January 2021, Mahaniah wrote, MassHealth has implemented 105 payment suspensions as part of its program integrity program.
U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah Foley has committed to rooting out fraud in the state’s Medicaid system alongside her federal counterparts. She announced on March 26 that Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Mallard and Mark Grady will work as fraud coordinators to lead a new Benefit and Voter Fraud Team, which her office said was created “in response to the rampant fraud being
uncovered in Massachusetts.” According to her office, Foley has charged 15 individuals with nearly $9 million in fraud since December 2025, including SNAP benefit fraud and MassHealth fraud.
“It has become apparent that there are insufficient guardrails in place in Massachusetts to address the rampant benefit fraud across the state. It is time to hold criminals stealing taxpayer benefits accountable. This has gone on far too long and the buck stops with me,” Foley said in a March 26 press release.
Foley described the fraud her office has uncovered as the “tip of the iceberg,” adding, “We have dozens of investigations in the pipeline that will come to fruition in the coming weeks.”
Asked on Monday after a closed-door meeting with legislative leadership for her reaction to Foley’s new team, Gov. Maura Healey said, “Any fraud that’s out there, I support going after and stopping and shutting down.”
“I did that as attorney general. I continue to do that as governor through the program integrity work of our agencies, where if we have suspicions of fraud, we immediately take action, we report those to the attorney general’s office. We report those to the U.S. attorney’s office,” Healey continued. “I also am not quite sure what the U.S. attorney was meaning by a new fraud unit -- there is existing within that office already, a Medicaid Fraud Unit. I mean, as attorney general, my Medicaid Fraud Unit used to work directly with that one.”
Asked by a reporter if she thinks the state is being unfairly targeted, Healey said, “What do you think?” and did not answer the question.
Ella Adams is a reporter for the State House News Service and State Affairs Massachusetts. Reach her at ella.adams@statehousenews.com.
LONGMEADOW
Resident to run Boston Marathon one last time
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — Longmeadow resident Stephanie
O’Leary is hanging up the laces after this year’s Boston Marathon on April 20. She’s run for the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team the last five years.
The team is running for its 37th year, having raised more than $140 million since 1990 and $8.75 million this year for Dana-Farber’s Claudia Adams Barr program in innovative basic cancer research. Over 500 teammates from across the entire world will race this time around.
Runners on the team include cancer survivors and patients and family and friends of those who have been affected by cancer.
O’Leary joined the team after a good friend of hers had all of her breast cancer treatment done with Dana-Farber. She has raised over $100,000 for the organization over the past five years.
“I thought it would be a really cool thing to do, you know, kind of help the hospital that treated my friends and check something off my bucket list,” O’Leary said. “I thought I’d be a one and done marathoner, but here we are five years later.”
Each team member must also fulfill a basic fundraising commitment, which is the case for every runner among the various charity teams. Invitational runners are those who receive entry from Dana-Farber and must raise at least $12,000. Own entry runners are those who have joined the DFMC team after obtaining their own entry and must raise at least $4,000.
O’Leary has raised $18,757 so far this year out of her $20,000 goal. She said she is “very lucky and fortunate to have very generous friends, family, coworkers and people in the community” that have supported her.
“I think most people have been consistent donors for me since I started and have really motivated me to reach that milestone of five years and $100,000,” O’Leary said. “Everyone’s life is touched by cancer, whether it be a family member, friend or a colleague. I think it’s a really tangible way for people to think they’re making an impact and, you know, cancer protocols all over the world are developed at Dana-Farber, so it’s a really great impact to have.”
She said that running is secondary when it comes to marathon day and that it’s really about the people she meets along the way.
“You’re running alongside patients that have stage four cancer, you’re running alongside, you know, parents that have lost children, often very, very young,” O’Leary said. “You’re running alongside people that have lost parents and spouses and friends, that it really changes your perspective on the world, and everyday stresses don’t really seem as big.”
She said that Dana-Farber asked in her second year to have a patient partner, which is where the runners are matched with a child from the Jimmy Fund. She was paired with a 4-year-old girl with a complex and aggressive form of acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
“You kind of cheer each other on through treatment, through the marathon, and it’s really a bond,” O’Leary said. “She endured two and a half years and very intensive treatment, and she has been declared cancer free. We’re really shooting for her five years remaining cancer free to really officially be in that remission stafe, but she’s now a really happy first grader. That was a really tangible, like, personal impact, being paired with her.”
O’Leary said retiring from the team is really bittersweet be-
cause “the miles and the friends that you meet during the marathon training are so incredible. She added that she would encourage anyone who has the desire to give back or run in the marathon to “just go for it.”
“It’s taught me to be very resilient,” O’Leary said. “After running for a couple hours and you realize you’re halfway there, it can be a little bit difficult, but you hear people in the crowd just screaming, ‘Dana-Farber’ with
their Boston accents, and it really gives you the motivation to keep going, and when you’re a patient partner and you have a child waiting for you at the finish line to cheer you on, you have to get there. The muscle soreness and the pain that is running the marathon is nothing to what these patients have to endure, so using their inner strength and motivation to get there is really great.”
She recalled a story from the 2025 Boston Marathon where
someone hopped the barricade in Wellesley and ran with her for around 100 yards, sobbing, and said “thank you for raising the money, because it’s the research that kept my dad alive for 10 more years.” People can support O’Leary’s fundraiser at danafarber.jimmyfund.org by selecting the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge link and searching her name in the “donate now” section.
LONGMEADOW — Ruth’s House, part of Legacy Lifecare, will host a complimentary Elder Fraud Seminar on Wednesday, April 22, from 4-6 p.m. at its campus located at 780 Converse Street in Longmeadow.
This informative session is designed to help older adults, caregivers and families better understand and protect against today’s most common scams — particu-
larly those leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. As fraud tactics become increasingly sophisticated, education and awareness are critical tools in prevention.
Attendees will learn how to recognize warning signs of fraud, safeguard personal and financial information, and take proactive steps to avoid becoming a victim. The seminar will provide practi-
cal, real-world guidance that participants can immediately apply in their daily lives.
Following the educational portion of the event, guests are invited to stay for a fun and engaging game of BINGO, offering an opportunity to connect with others in a relaxed and supportive environment.
“This event reflects our commitment to not only caring for older adults, but empowering them and their families with the knowledge they need to stay safe,” said Mary-Anne Schelb, a representative from JGS Lifecare.
The seminar is free and open to the public, but advance registration is encouraged. Light refreshments will be served.
To RSVP, please call 413935-1791 or email mschelb@ legacylifecare.org.
HAMPDEN/WILBRAHAM
HWRSD to notify staff of potential for more layoffs
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
WILBRAHAM — The Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District School Committee is notifying its staff about the possibility of more layoffs in the fiscal year 2027 reductions, cited as allowing staff to prepare for the “worst case scenario” by School Committee member Tim Collins.
Additional staff will receive notification that their positions may be at risk of reduction if the budget is not approved by the towns at the Annual Town Meetings. An operating budget of $59.85 million was approved by the committee with Hampden responsible for $9.9 million and Wilbraham for $33.1 million in its budget roundtable on March 17. Superintendent John Provost met with the unions and has already prepared pink termination slips for the staff who will definitely be affected by the reductions.
School Committee Secretary Lisa Murray said the committee won’t meet “the obligation of an appropriate amount of time” if staff aren’t notified and the budget isn’t approved by the towns. Provost added he didn’t know the legal parameters to declare a fiscal exigency, which is a financial emergency that would allow rapid reductions like layoffs.
“There is some question right now around whether or not the budget will be supported in both of the towns,” Provost said. “I think a reasonable person could argue you might want to take some, you might want to cover yourself at least a little bit in case it doesn’t pass.”
Murray said that letting people know ahead of time is the right thing to do, and that she and everyone on the committee would want to know if it were them. School Committee member Michael Tirabassi asked Provost if he had a number of additional proposed notifications and that he found it hard to “get his mind around how many.”
“I’ve imagined this in two approaches, one would be to include all of the reductions in that, sort of, two tiered list of cuts that I had brought, even though I know that you rejected many of them,” Provost said. “Those would probably be the ones that we’d be talking about again if the budget didn’t pass in one of the communities. That I think brought it down to a number that I believe, from what I had heard, probably would be sustainable under all of the scenarios.”
Provost’s other approach is to send layoff notices to all of the staff hired last year, adding there were about 10 elementary school teachers hired and a “number of secondary as well.” Tirabassi said it might be reasonable since “we have no idea what the funding gap is.”
“I have confirmation that Wilbraham voted to support the full budget that we proposed,” Tirabassi said. “We at least know that little piece of the puzzle … I think that Hampden will have to make some hard choices to be
able to fund it.”
Tirabassi said that the committee could have a proposal to accept all of the reductions and that the teachers hired last year would be a “blanket to cover us, but I don’t really know how we would possibly have the students be taught if that many people were reduced.”
Collins said the notices should go out “as early as we can,” so if the “worst case scenario happens, these people have time to plan their lives and the schools have time to plan their adjustments.”
“When you lose a staff member, that’s going to change the whole makeup of the school and that takes some time as well,” Collins said. “My recommendation would be to, when you’re talking to people you can say ‘hey, here’s the budget we passed and these are the only cuts that will be required, but worst case scenario, we might have to cut this many, this many … this is why your getting the notice because we have to notify
you and it’s only fair to you and your schools that they know this potential is there.’”
The process is being envisioned as two separate conversations, one being definite cuts that aren’t in the FY27 budget and then positions that might not be in the budget contingent on the annual town meetings. Provost said that if the budget does pass, the staff would be immediately notified to “come back.” School Committee Chair Michal Boudreau said this was just a notification and not “an absolute that we are eliminating any position.” She said Hampden has not made a decision on voting favorably for the budget and that the public hearing is on April 21.
“I think they have to look at all the departments, and so we fit in as the school department that they have to look at,” Boudreau said. “My understanding is that the budget we put forward would impact what they are able to do for all the departments. I know they have not made a decision.”
Monson Savings Bank’s Williams promoted to Wilbraham branch manager
MONSON — Monson Savings Bank is proud to announce the promotion of John G. Williams to branch manager of the Wilbraham branch.
Williams, who previously served as assistant branch manager at the bank’s East Longmeadow location, brings over 11 years of banking and financial services experience, strong leadership abilities and a deep commitment to exceptional customer service.
In his new role, Williams will oversee the day to day operations of the Wilbraham branch, guide and develop branch staff,
MONSON — Monson Savings Bank recognizes that its team members are the foundation of the community bank’s enduring success. With a steadfast commit-
and advance branch growth through new deposit account relationships. He will also continue strengthening local community connections through volunteer efforts and outreach initiatives.
“We are excited to congratulate John on his well deserved promotion to Branch Manager,” said Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “John leads with integrity, compassion and a true customer first mindset. His dedication to both his team and the community makes him an outstanding fit for our Wilbraham Branch.”
ment to valuing and celebrating its employees, the bank meets its contributions with recognition and sincere appreciation.
As the bank looks forward to
Before joining Monson Savings Bank, Williams worked at Fifth Third Bank in Sarasota, Florida, where he served as a Personal Banker assisting customers with new accounts, lending, maintenance and retirement planning. His career also includes experience with additional financial institutions, contributing to his strong operational foundation and relationship building skills.
A resident of East Longmeadow, Williams is active in the community as a member of the Western Mass Referral Exchange (BNI Group) and regu-
the new year, Monson Savings Bank proudly honors their employees who reached significant service milestones in 2025. These dedicated individuals, whose tenures range from five to 20 years, collectively represent an extraordinary 105 years of loyalty and service to the bank.
“Every employee at Monson Savings Bank is a valued member of our team,” said Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “We are especially thankful to the members of our team who have demonstrated their dedication and loyalty to the Bank through their ongoing service. I congratulate those celebrating a milestone this year and express our gratitude for their commitment, not just to the Bank, but also to the communities and customers we serve.”
larly volunteers to support local initiatives.
Williams shared his enthusiasm for this next step and said, “I am thrilled to join the Wilbraham Branch of Monson Savings Bank. My time at the East Longmeadow Branch has allowed me to grow professionally and personally. I look forward to taking what I have learned to lead the Wilbraham Branch and serve the community.”
To contact John Williams, NMLS ID 1868463, for your banking needs, please email jwilliams@monsonsavings.com or call 413-267-1281.
The following Monson Savings Bank team members are being celebrated for their noteworthy work anniversaries in 2025.
20 years of service
For two decades, Executive Assistant Anna Calvanese has been a cornerstone of Monson Savings Bank’s board and leadership support. Known for her exceptional organizational skills, reliability and warm professionalism, Calvanese plays a vital role in ensuring the bank’s leadership team functions seamlessly. Her dedication, institutional knowledge, and unwavering commitment have made her an invaluable resource to colleagues across the organization. Monson Savings Bank proudly celebrates Calvanese’s 20 years of outstanding service and expresses deep appreciation for the meaningful impact she continues to make each day.
Terri Fox, senior vice president and chief retail officer, celebrates 20 years of exceptional leadership and dedication at Monson Savings Bank. Throughout her two decade tenure, Fox has played a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening the bank’s retail banking operations. Her strategic vision, deep commitment to customer service, and ability to inspire and support
her teams have been instrumental to the bank’s continued growth and success. Fox’s expertise, integrity, and passion for serving both customers and communities make her an invaluable member of the leadership team. Monson Savings Bank proudly honors Terri’s 20 years of remarkable service and contributions.
15 years of service
For 15 years, Paul Shepardson, assistant vice president and digital systems officer, has been a driving force behind Monson Savings Bank’s technology advancements and digital infrastructure. Shepardson’s deep technical expertise, innovative mindset and commitment to operational excellence have played a central role in enhancing the Bank’s digital systems and ensuring secure, seamless experiences for both customers and team members. His forward thinking approach and dedication to continuous improvement have strengthened the Bank’s ability to adapt in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Monson Savings Bank proudly recognizes Shepardson’s 15 years of exceptional service and meaningful contributions.
John G. Williams. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — While Fikiri Amisi recently became an American citizen, he remembers the struggle of coming to the United States as a refugee.
“It is a long process. It took time,” he said. Before Amisi was allowed to enter the country, he filled out documentation, met with several different government agencies, received immunizations, affidavits from doctors and was vetted to rule out illicit drug use and any criminal history. “Refugees are all heavily screened before we’re allowed into the country,” said Amisi. “For refugees to come, it is not a small process of one or two months. It takes years.”
For this reason, Amisi, who is now a refugee employment specialist with Jewish Family Service of Western Massachusetts,
said a recent policy change by federal Citizenship and Immigration Services and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, both of which are part of the Department of Homeland Security, is “unreasonable.” The policy would allow for the detention of refugees who have been in the country for more than one year without obtaining lawful permanent resident status, known as a green card.
However, refugees must be physically present in the country for one year before they are allowed to apply for lawful permanent resident status. Amisi said the policy allows no time for people to go through the green card process, which took Amisi more than one year due, in part, to interruptions connected to the coronavirus pandemic. “I know many in the community who haven’t received their green card.
Some, they have two years in process, in process, in process.”
Amisi said, “Many refugees are just beginning to get their lives in order. The countries where we came from, we were in fear.” He said the idea of detention is frightening for many and causes emotional distress.
“It’s not fair. It’s not fair,” he said. “We are not a threat to the United States.”
When reached for comment, U.S. Customs and Immigration Services Spokesman Matthew J. Tragesser stated, “The Trump Administration is implementing longstanding law as Congress intended: requiring aliens admitted as refugees to be fully re-vetted after a year. This is not novel or discretionary; it is a clear requirement upheld by the courts for years. Fully vetting and screening refugees is critical to protecting national security
and the American public from known failures of the Biden administration.”
To block the federal government from implementing the policy, Jewish Family Service joined six refugees and the International Institute of New England in a class action lawsuit against Department of Homeland Security, ICE and USCIS.
A lawsuit against the federal government is not something Jewish Family Services undertook lightly. Camille Wathne, director of special projects at Jewish Family Service, said it is, “unusual but important work” because the policy change would affect as many as 1,000 of Jewish Family Service’s clients.
Jewish Family Service provides a variety of programs, including those for Jewish Life, older adults and behavioral health. It also has robust pro-
grams for citizenship and immigration, and new Americans.
These programs offer services, such as case management, English language classes, enrollment in school and help finding employment. Referring to the memorandum and other immigration policy changes under the Trump administration, Camille said, “It’s a pretty direct attack on the work we do.”
The suit, filed on Feb. 27 in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts, states the policy violates the U.S. Constitution’s Fourth and Fifth amendments — prohibition of warrantless seizures and the right to due and equal protection, respectively — according to the main complaint. The plaintiffs say the policy changes were piloted on Jan. 9 in Minnesota as
See DHS on page 15
Listening With Love expands, Govan recognized by state Senate
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — There is more love available to Springfield area residents looking for someone to listen, since the expansion of Listening With Love, a counseling and mental health care business in Indian Orchard.
Zaida Govan, a social worker and therapist, opened Listening With Love in January 2022 when she saw wait times of six to 12 months to see mental health clinicians. “Within six months, I had a waitlist,” she said. Listening With Love now has 10 clinicians. Govan said the practice had outgrown its space at 54½ Main St., so when the storefront next door at 54 Main St. became available, she decided to expand.
With the added space, Listening With Love can now accommodate five patients at a time in individual therapy rooms, with
space downstairs for group therapy, Govan said. She plans to hire five more clinicians.
Listening With Love offers several forms of therapy, including narrative, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral and art therapies. “I specialize in trauma and addiction, particularly with women,” Govan said, but other clinicians at Listening With Love have their own specialties, and treat adults, teens and children.
At the grand opening of Listening With Love’s new space on March 27, City Council President Tracye Whitfield delivered two proclamations. In reading the City Council’s proclamation, she quoted Dr. Cornell West, who said, “Justice is what love looks like in public.” Whitfield further spoke about how Govan, who is also the Ward 8 City Councilor, has worked to support Springfield residents, particularly those in Indian Orchard. She also shared that Govan helped her be-
come comfortable with seeking a therapist.
The second proclamation was from Mayor Domenic Sarno, who proclaimed March 27, 2026, to be Listening With Love Day in the city of Springfield.
State Sen. Jake Oliveira’s district director, Jennifer Pickering, and State Sen. Adam Gomez’s communications director, Chris Gongora, presented Govan with a citation from the Senate. A citation from the state House of Representatives was presented to Govan on behalf of state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez by his district director, Lisandra Rosario, and state Rep. Orlando Ramos by Chief of Staff Ayanna Crawford.
“Spaces like this are what we need in Springfield,” School Committee member Rosa Valentin said. Sherrod Johnson, a clinician who works at Listening With Love, said he joined Govan because he could not meet the needs of the community in his previous job. Like Whit
field, he said Govan “gives back to the community selflessly.”
In her remarks, Govan thanked her husband for his support. “Anytime I want to do something, he says, ‘Okay,’ and then we figure out how to do it,” she said. Govan candidly referred to her own history of substance use disorder, but said she has been in recovery and pursuing a path in mental health care since 1989.
The name Listening With Love was suggested by a friend who told Govan, “That’s what you do. You listen with love.” Govan said, “You don’t realize people are watching you.”
SCOUTMASTER — After more than a half-century of leading young people in Scouting America, Alice Richard was honored by the Springfield City Council on March 23. Richard, seen here with Troop 49 and the City Council, was the first female scoutmaster in Western Massachusetts and was inducted into the organization’s Hall of Fame in 2010.
Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
City Councilor Zaida Govan (center) was provided with a citation from the State Senate after her business Listening With Love expanded. Reminer Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
Senate unanimously approves legislation to lift farms
By Sam Drysdale State House News Service
BOSTON — The Senate unanimously passed a sweeping bill on April 1 aimed at stabilizing agriculture, expanding food access and modernizing how Massachusetts defines farming.
The legislation reflects years of study and arrives as lawmakers warn that farms face mounting economic and policy pressures, while a separate constitutional amendment effort remains a work in progress.
State Sen. Jo Comerford said the bill draws heavily from multiple industry reports compiled in recent years.
“The cool thing about it is that there was a cranberry report, you know,” Comerford said. “This omnibus bill has gotten bigger and bigger over these years… that’s one of the most meaningful things about this bill, right? Is that we’re scooping up so many of the key recommendations … that are going to help farms stay farming.”
In one of its key provisions, the bill builds on tax policy designed to keep farms financially viable through the Chapter 61A program, which allows farmland to be taxed based on agricultural value rather than market value. Those tax benefits can dramatically reduce costs for farmers.
Data from fiscal 2017 shows 24 acres of land in Southwick could
Milestones
Continued from page 10
10 years of service
Amy Forkey, commercial loan administrator, marks 10 years of dedicated service with Monson Savings Bank. Forkey is known for her strong attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and unwavering reliability. Her deep understanding of commercial
see a tax bill drop from $1,640 to roughly $37 when classified as farmland under Chapter 61A, according to Springfield- and Northampton-based legal and tax advisors Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin.
Lawmakers expanded that framework in a 2024 law by allowing farms to process and sell goods made from their own products — such as turning strawberries into jam or milk into ice cream — while retaining farmland tax status.
The new bill (S 3029) extends that concept into agritourism, a growing sector many farms rely on to stay afloat.
“You can grow apples, you can make apple wine, you can sell apple wine, and you can have an apple wine tasting,” Comerford said. “You can grow corn, you can make corn pudding or corn fritters … and you can have a corn maze. It extends what farmers are able to call farming.”
By defining those activities as agriculture, the bill allows more portions of farm property to qualify for Chapter 61A tax treatment, rather than being taxed as commercial enterprises.
The shift reflects a broader reality: many farms operate on slim or negative margins and depend on diversified revenue streams.
At the same time, Comerford is pushing a longer-term change that would go further than statute — amending the state constitu-
loan operations and her commitment to supporting both customers and colleagues help drive the bank’s lending processes forward with accuracy and efficiency. Monson Savings Bank proudly celebrates Forkey’s 10 years of meaningful contributions and continued dedication.
Kevin Hicks, first vice president and operations officer, celebrates 10 years of outstanding service at Monson Savings Bank.
tion to redefine farmland itself.
Current constitutional language requires at least five contiguous acres to qualify for agricultural tax benefits, a threshold she said no longer reflects modern land use.
“So right now, the Constitution says that ag land is 5 acres or more. Now that’s bananas, right? In 2025,” Comerford said.
In a state with shrinking open land, she argued, five acres can be out of reach, especially for urban and smaller-scale farms.
“I mean, think about it, right? Back then,” she said, about the timing of when the state Constitution was ratified in 1780, “five acres seemed like nothing… but now it seems like everything.”
Comerford was clear the proposed amendment will not advance this session.
“We’re going to be back at it next session to change the constitution,” she said.
The Joint Committee on Revenue recommended last year that the amendment should not move forward in the legislative process. That committee gave a favorable report to a similar measure in 2023, but top Democrats opted against putting the measure up for a vote during a House-Senate session known as a Constitutional Convention.
Comerford said the issue is “complex, because farmers and growers want to know that we’re not going to come in and
Throughout the past decade, Hicks has been a critical leader in strengthening and streamlining the bank’s operational functions. His broad expertise, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to efficiency have helped enhance internal processes, support organizational growth and ensure smooth day to day operations across the Bank. Hicks’s dedication, professionalism, and collaborative approach make him a valued member of the leadership team. Monson Savings Bank proudly honors Kevin’s 10 years of meaningful contributions and service.
5 years of service
Carla Carnevale, community relations manager, is celebrating five years of dedicated service at Monson Savings Bank. In her role, Carnevale has strengthened the bank’s community connections through leadership in outreach initiatives, charitable partnerships, local engagement efforts and media relations. Her passion for supporting community organizations, along with her ability to build meaningful relationships and promote the bank’s story through positive press, has made a lasting impact on the bank and the communities it serves. Monson Savings Bank proudly recognizes Carnevale’s five years of service
somehow infringe on them or encroach on them, if we don’t have the constitutional protections. But I think we’re going to get there. It’s a big idea to change the constitution. So we need to work on that big idea next session.”
She added that it would help to know how many small farms could benefit from the change. That need for better data is a central feature of the bill passed Wednesday, which directs the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to create a comprehensive registry and mapping system of farmland.
“This bill is an homage to, like, the bowels of farms,” Comerford said, describing new requirements to track land use, solar development and the flow of local food through state programs.
“You can’t fix something you can’t measure right?” she added.
Comerford said that between 2017 and 2022, 27,000 acres of farmland were lost in Massachusetts. “That’s twice the national rate. Boom gone.”
Beyond tax policy and planning, the bill includes a wide range of food system provisions.
It makes permanent the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program and newly allows farmers to use grant funding to purchase used equipment.
The legislation also codifies the Healthy Incentives Program, which provides financial support for low-income residents to buy
and her continued commitment to enhancing the bank’s community presence.
Caitlin O’Connor, first vice president and marketing officer, marks five years of exceptional service at Monson Savings Bank. Throughout her tenure, O’Connor has been a driving force behind the bank’s marketing strategy, brand development, and communications efforts, effectively articulating and promoting the bank’s mission and values. Her creative vision, strategic approach and commitment to showcasing the bank’s mission have strengthened its presence across the communities it serves. Known for her professionalism, leadership and ability to bring ideas to life, O’Connor consistently elevates the bank’s marketing and outreach initiatives. Monson Savings Bank proudly celebrates her five years of impactful contributions and dedication.
Kandy Tranghese, senior vice president and chief financial officer, celebrates five years of distinguished service at Monson Savings Bank. Since joining the bank, Tranghese has brought exceptional financial leadership, strategic insight, and a strong commitment to responsible fiscal management. Her expertise and thoughtful guidance have been instrumental in
locally grown produce, linking farm viability with food access.
Senators also included provisions affecting cranberry growers, including changes to allow water management permits to be transferred, easing transitions as operations are sold or retired.
The bill creates a “Next Generation Farmer” program aimed at helping new and underrepresented farmers enter the industry.
“And they’re disproportionately young, disproportionately people of color, who have been denied access to the land — immigrant farmers,” Comerford said.
Additional sections require state agencies to track how much local food is used in public programs like schools and food banks, with the goal of strengthening in-state supply chains.
During Senate debate, Comerford emphasized that the bill is not the final word on agricultural policy.
“Another good idea from our colleague,” she said, about an amendment put forward by Sen. Bruce Tarr related to farm stands. “And I’m enjoying this conversation because it allows… the Senate to understand that while the bill before us is a good, big old bill, there’s more we can and should do for farms.”
Sam Drysdale is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro. Reach her at sdrysdale@statehousenews.com.
supporting the bank’s long term growth, financial stability and operational excellence. Known for her professionalism, integrity and collaborative approach, Tranghese is an invaluable member of the senior leadership team. Monson Savings Bank proudly recognizes her five years of dedicated service and impactful contributions.
Linda Abrantes, senior customer service associate, celebrates five years of dedicated service at Monson Savings Bank. Abrantes is known for her warm customer focus, strong attention to detail and commitment to creating positive experiences for everyone who walks through the door. Her reliability, professionalism and deep care for customers and colleagues alike have made her an invaluable part of the retail team. Monson Savings Bank proudly honors Linda’s five years of service and the meaningful contributions she continues to make each day.
Matthew McCaffrey, digital systems administrator, marks five years of valuable service at Monson Savings Bank. McCaffrey plays a key role in maintaining and enhancing the bank’s digital infrastructure, ensuring that technology systems operate reliably and efficiently. Known for his strong technical expertise, problem solving abilities and dedication to supporting both staff and customers, he helps keep the Bank’s digital services secure and running smoothly. Monson Savings Bank proudly recognizes McCaffrey’s five years of service and the important contributions he continues to make.
Mikayla Vega, commercial loan servicer, celebrates five years of dedicated service at Monson Savings Bank. Vega plays an essential role in supporting the bank’s commercial lending operations, known for her accuracy, responsiveness, and commitment to delivering exceptional service to both customers and colleagues. Her strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to go above and beyond help ensure smooth and efficient loan servicing processes. Monson Savings Bank proudly recognizes Vega’s five years of meaningful contributions and continued dedication.
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
NORTHAMPTON — Those with auditory and visual disabilities may soon have the necessary equipment to fully enjoy live performances at the Academy of Music Theatre.
The Northampton performance venue has launched an April fundraising campaign to help secure funding for the purchase and installation of the building’s first assisted listening device system.
The “Let’s Hear It!” campaign aims to raise $10,000 during the month of April, which will then enable the academy to acquire the equipment needed to provide assistance to more than 30 patrons at one time during any event on the historic Northampton stage.
Academy Executive Director Debra J’Anthony said she is confident this project will accommodate audience members with auditory and visual disabilities who have previously been unable to fully experience performances, or who have opted not to attend live performances because of the lack of equipment.
“We had visited providing assisted listening devices, and in the begging, there were not as many options to accommodate the variety of programs that we offer, and it has only been recently, over the last 10 years or so, that we are able to provide a device that could cover film, band and theater,” J’Anthony told Reminder Publishing J’Anthony said that enhancing accessibility at the theater has been a priority for over a decade now, as seen through the wheelchair accessible additions made to the building inside and
out over that time. In the last several years, the Academy tried to secure grant funds to help bridge the accessibility gap, but had no luck.
But now, with The Beveridge Family Foundation already contributing $2,000 to the campaign, and the Academy itself contributing another $2,500, the theater is now asking the public to rally around the cause and help them close this campaign in April.
“We’re reaching out to the community to say, we would really like to provide a fuller experience for our patrons [who] require an assisted listening device. Not only those with hearing disabilities, but also, we are newly collaborating with Valley Eye Radio to hopefully provide, for certain shows, descriptions of what is going on stage so they can hear through the listening device,” added J’Anthony.
Valley Eye Radio is a nonprofit service for blind and visually impaired listeners with the mission of keeping Pioneer Valley neighbors informed and connected by being a 24/7 accessible source of local news. The Academy’s partnership with the service is an effort to expand its reach to local venues that bring in live performances. The hope is to provide live remote broadcasts and collaborative events that bring community storytelling and live performance directly to listeners.
“Partnerships like this one between the Academy and Valley Eye Radio reflect what’s best about our region — organizations coming together to remove barriers and make culture, learning and connection accessible to all,” said Valley Eye Radio Executive
The two organizations will coordinate efforts for select performances during the 2026-27 theater season. Other venues or individuals interested in partnering with or volunteering for Valley Eye Radio can visit its website at valleyeyeradio.org for more information.
J’Anthony added that the
academy is also seeking community amplifier sponsors who want to get involved. She said they can reach out for more information by emailing development@aomtheatre.com.
“It is a very short campaign. We do hope to meet our goals and then purchase the devices in May at some point, and then have them installed hopefully by early June,” added J’Anthony. “We’re very grateful for the community support.” Anyone interested in donating to this campaign can visit the donation page on the academy website at aomtheatre.com/ donate-lets-hear-it/ or email development@aomtheatre.com for more information.
Director Chloe Collins.
The Academy of Music.
Reminder Publishing photo by Trent Levakis
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
SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden District Attorney’s Office welcomed approximately 150 students, parents and community members to the Basketball Hall of Fame on April 2 for the office’s annual Stop the Swerve event, an educational program focused on preventing distracted and impaired driving among young drivers.
The Stop the Swerve program featured a new, locally produced documentary by New York Sound and Motion examining the real-life consequences of distracted and impaired driving. The documentary tells the story of Jemyliana Vargas, a Springfield woman who was killed in a 2023 crash on Interstate 91 in Longmeadow after being thrown from a vehicle and struck by multiple vehicles. With the participation of her family, including her mother who appears in the film, the documentary aims to help young drivers understand how one decision on the road can affect families and communities forever.
Following the documentary, students who attended participated in interactive activities including driving simulators, impairment goggle exercises and a pedal cart challenge designed to demonstrate how distraction and impairment affect reaction time and decision-making behind the wheel. While students participated in these activities, parents and guardians attended a presentation provided by Assistant District Attorney Curtis Frick on Social Host Liability and the legal responsibilities associated with underage drinking.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the winners of the Stop the Swerve Public Service Announcement Contest and Billboard Contest, where high school students from across Hampden County created original public safety campaigns focused on preventing distracted and impaired driving. Approximately 23 PSA videos
and 60 billboard entries from 12 schools across the county were submitted. Winning schools receive prize money to support educational programming, with $2,500 awarded for first place, $1,000 for second place, $500 for third place and $250 for honorable mentions.
PSA contest winners
• First Place: “Potential Lost” by Liovanny Alvarado of Springfield Central High School.
• Second Place: “One Decision” by Rista Pradhan, Vanely Ortiz Colon, Daniel Stinchcomb, Michael Bordas, Rylan Murphy, Auly Dilone, Raheem Campbell, Yeraida Ruiz, Anaivelyn Rodriguez Diaz,
Jon’carlos Rosario, Jeshuanys Quinones-Gautier, Quinton McMillian, and Victor Henry of Putnam Vocational Technical Academy.
• Third Place: “From Hand to Hand” by Aeesha Kibodya, Yomar Benitez, Honiel Bautista and Romeio Tiwari of Springfield Honors Academy.
• Honorable Mentions: “Cartoon Life” by Hannah Corridan of Pope Francis Preparatory School and “Block Head” by Levi Noone of Pope Francis Preparatory School.
Billboard contest winners
• First Place: “On the Line” by Allison Lak of Pope Francis Preparatory School.
• Second Place: “Which Will You Choose” by Adrianna Pingree of Springfield Central High School.
• Third Place: “A Deadly Combo” by Rachel Roblinski of Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical High School.
• Honorable Mentions: “Undead” by Hannah Thifault of Pope Francis Preparatory School and “Don’t Press Your Luck” by Ainsley Petell of White Oak School.
The first place PSA will be shared on 22 News and the Hampden District Attorney’s Office social media, and the first place billboard design will be displayed on a Lamar digital billboard in Hampden County, as well as shared on social media.
District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni said the creativity and thoughtfulness shown by students each year continues to demonstrate how seriously young people are taking the responsibility of driving.
“My office investigates these crashes, we meet the families, and we see the consequences that last far beyond the day of the crash,” Gulluni said. “If students leave this event thinking differently about how they drive or how their friends drive, then this program is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do.”
The Stop the Swerve program is part of the Hampden District Attorney’s Office’s ongoing efforts to educate young drivers and prevent motor vehicle crashes through education, awareness and community partnerships. To request a Stop the Swerve presentation in your school, contact Deputy Director of Community Safety and Outreach Gina Anselmo at gina.anselmo@mass.gov.
Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni announces the winners of the Stop the Swerve Public Service Announcement Contest during the Stop the Swerve event at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Reminder
Pain at pump adds to list of voter cost concerns
By Michael P. Norton State House News Sercice
If affordability concerns are a top issue for voters in 2026, many are likely finding new reasons to be upset.
Citing its weekly survey, AAA reported on March 30 that the average price of a gallon of gas in Massachusetts rose to $3.80, or 90 cents a gallon higher than a year ago at this time. The auto
club attributed the price spikes to the ongoing U.S. war with Iran and the higher demand for gas that occurs each spring.
“As the national average nears $4 a gallon — rising more than $1 in one month — crude oil prices remain elevated amid uncertainty about the direction of the war, settling above $100 a barrel when markets closed on Friday,” AAA said. “Continued attacks on infrastructure
across the Persian Gulf region and Iran’s stranglehold on the Strait of Hormuz are keeping pressure on oil and gas prices around the globe.”
Higher prices at the pump are adding to the cost pressures playing out in household food, housing, energy and electricity bills.
Republican candidate for governor Brian Shortsleeve recently called for the state gas tax to be suspended until prices come
“Operation Post-Admission Refugee Reverification and Integrity Strengthening” or “Operation PARRIS,” and go on to state, “The Administration is systematically implementing policies that are hostile to refugees, with the end goal of terminating their refugee status and expelling refugees en masse.”
Under the previous policy, which had been in place since 2010, a refugee’s failure to obtain lawful permanent resident status after one year of physical presence in the country was not,
PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
Holy Spirit, You who made me see everything and showed me the way to reach my ideal. You, who gave me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me; and You who are in all instances of my life with me; I, in this short dialogue want to thank You for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. Thank you for Your love towards me and my loved ones. Persons must pray the prayer three consecutive days without asking your wish. After the third day wish will be granted, no matter how difficult it may be. Then promise to publish this dialogue as soon as this favor is granted. I will never stop trusting in God and His power. C.H.
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
Theodore J. Beauregard
Edward Brayley
Joyce A. Grycel
Jeannine M. Martell
Darlene J. Peck
EAST LONGMEADOW
George Thomas Herberger
Kathleen M. Snow
GRANBY
Jeannette A. Boczon
George R. Hodgins
HAMPDEN
Cynthia M. Crum
Robert G. Nelson
Stanley Witkop Jr. HOLYOKE
Joseph M. Jaworski
Robert E. Lafrenaye
LONGMEADOW
John Richard Brodacki III
Jack Arnold Goldberg
Henry Nowick (Hank) LUDLOW
Edward J. Cislak
Nancy S. Enos
Jennifer Anne Norwood
SPRINGFIELD
Jessie Desmarais
Betty V. Dubay
Leon Houston Jr.
Margaret Kazalis
Adelia Kordzikowski
Nancy L. Martin
Felix Salzano
Katherine Spada
Joanne M. Staton
Carmen M. Taylor
Joyce Eleanor Trench (Robinson)
Ralph J. Valenti
down but there’s been fewer calls on Beacon Hill for gas tax relief compared to a significant push that took shape in 2022 when the Russian-Ukraine war sparked in a surge in gas prices.
Sen. Edward Markey this week called on executives at ExxonMobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Shell and BP to “refrain from awarding executives profits generated from rising oil prices during Trump’s illegal war
in and of itself, treated as basis for detention or removal from the United States. If the refugee was arrested on another matter, the Department of Homeland Security was required to either release the person or begin removal proceedings within 48 hours.
A memorandum released by ICE and USCIS in February regarding the policy change cites part of the U.S. Code that states a refugee must “return or be returned to the custody of the Department of Homeland Security for inspection and examination.” The memo states that returning to custody may include submitting an application for legal permanent status or appearing for a scheduled interview or appointment. However, it also states, “‘Custody’ as used in” the federal code “means detention.”
Anyone who does not voluntarily turn themselves over to
in Iran.” Markey also called for the reversal of a “time-limited” 8% increase in transportation-related postage prices that was approved by the Governors of the Postal Service on March 24. Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont and Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp earlier in March expressed an openness to pausing gas taxes to mitigate spiking prices due to the war in Iran, Pluribus reported.
Homeland Security would be arrested and detained. The memo does not state how long the person would remain in custody or where they would be held. Instead, the cited legal basis for the detention states it is “not indefinite” but “may last for the reasonable length of time it takes to inspect and examine the alien to determine whether he or she is admissible.”
On March 23, Judge Richard G. Stearns granted a stay of the policy change’s enforcement. In granting the motion, he wrote that the plaintiffs are likely to be successful in their argument that equating custody and detainment is unlawful. He noted that it has not historically been used in that context and “Refugees are not detained upon arrival and thus cannot be “returned” to detention.” He also stated, “The individual plaintiffs are at risk of unlawful and unnecessary detention, a quintessential example of irreparable harm.”
Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother.
Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). ere are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times) Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you.
Despite the stay of enforcement, Wathne said, the potential of detention has had “a chilling effect.” She said refugees are hesitant to take their children to school, go to work or access services they are entitled to, for fear they will be detained.
“If you come as a refugee, you are on a path to legal settlement,” she said, adding that they have a right to “live without fear of deportation and arrest.” Ultimately, she said, the Trump administration has created “fear, distrust and stress, risking the safety of people who are a part of us.”
BASKETBALL
On March 8, Wilbraham’s 7/8th grade girls basketball team lost to Westfield 32-22 in the Suburban League Division-2 championship game played at Chicopee High School.
Lexi Blasenak up-fakes and then looks to score on the lay-up.
Julia Magee attacks the hoop for Wilbraham.
Michelle Kyei-Ohemeng of the Falcons chases after the ball.
Wilbraham’s Colleen Chesky takes it strong to the basket.
The Falcons Audrey Scott boxes out Brynn Whalen of Westfield.
BASKETBALL
Ethan Appleby drives to the basket for a lay-up.
Witek
Bradley Jalonen fires a 3/4- length of the court pass on the Falcon fast break.
Louis Duong led Wilbraham with 15 points.
The Falcons Nolan Krupka (31) jostles for rebound position with Landon Johnson of West Springfield.
