EAST LONGMEADOW
| LONGMEADOW | HAMPDEN | WILBRAHAM
Richards reflects on career before saying farewell
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — After a career that spanned over 40 years in East Longmeadow town government, Councilor Marilyn Richards is bidding adieu at the end of June.
She has served on the Town Council since 2019 and June 30 will mark her final day.
Richards moved to town in 1976 alongside her husband, Norman Richards, after he had completed service in the Air Force. She was working at Baystate until 11 p.m. each night and when she would get home close to midnight, she noticed the neighborhood was pitch black.
Her first initiative — gathering petition signatures to create a Town Meeting article for street lights.
“That’s where I started, you know, just getting involved in the process, seeing how Town Meeting works,” Richards said. “This was all very new to us because prior to moving to town, we were moving with the Air Force and we really didn’t get too involved with those community events.”
Richards officially began her town government career in 1980 after joining the Council on Ag-
ing Advisory Board. She served for eight years until becoming the first woman elected to the Board of Selectmen in 1988. “I served in that capacity for three terms, that was nine years,” Richards said.
She was asked to fill a Planning Board vacancy in 1997 after stepping down from the Board of Selectmen.
“I fell in love with the responsibility,” Richards said. “I served 11 years there, and then stepped off the Planning Board.”
She continued to do some committee work for the next several years after stepping down from the Planning Board as she almost immediately joined the Zoning Review Committee.
She also has experience with the General Bylaw Review Committee and the Community Preservation Committee.
Richards said that the Town Council serves as a team, with seven different people bringing different gifts and talents to the table. She said what’s been exciting for her is being able to make decisions by reaching back into her past experiences.
“There’s a level of expertise that I have developed over time that have served both me and the
LONGMEADOW
Simmons receives praise from Select Board in evaluation
Longmeadow Town Manager Lyn Simmons exceeded expectations across multiple fronts in the eyes of the Select Board during fiscal year 2026. Page 6
EAST LONGMEADOW
Thompson parts from School Committee after nearly 20 years East Longmeadow School Committee member and former Chair Gregory Thompson is saying goodbye after choosing not to run for reelection in this year’s election.
Page 8
Healey, officials tour Veterans Home in Holyoke
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
HOLYOKE — The Veterans Home in Holyoke gave Gov. Maura Healey a tour of the facility six years removed from a “travesty” during the coronavirus pandemic and just months away from the opening of a new stateof-the-art facility.
Healey, Veterans Services
Secretary Eric Goralnick, Mayor Joshua Garcia, state Sen. John Velis, and state Rep. Pat Duffy visited the home on May 27 to highlight major improvements in veteran care, staffing, safety and resident satisfaction that now place the facility among the strongest long-term skilled nursing facilities in the nation, according to delegates. “We can say that this home, this home in Holyoke, is really leading the way for the rest of the country,” Healey stated.
The elected officials toured the facility alongside Executive Director Michael Lazo and Director of Nursing Kelly Jones, and met with veterans, staff and families. Throughout the tour, they discussed how investments in staffing, technology, safety and resident-centered care are improving daily life for residents. The visit comes as Healey continues to lead a transformation of veterans services across Massachusetts following years of crisis and mismanagement at the state’s veterans homes.
“What happened here in 2020 during COVID was an absolute travesty, it was a tragedy, and there was a lot of loss,” Healey stated. “I was your attorney general at the time, I was here for it, and I promised that I would do whatever I could to make that better.”
Healey created the Executive Office of Veterans Services in March 2023 to restore trust and deliver stronger care for veterans across Massachusetts.
“One of the missions we had early on was to make sure that we were doing everything that we could to turn around our veterans homes,” Healey said. “To give the staff, the teams, and the residents of our homes, in Chelsea and in Holyoke, the facility that they deserved.”
She claimed that Holyoke is one of the top-rated veterans homes in the entire country and has received a perfect rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
In addition to the perfect score from the Department of Veteran Services, the Veterans Home has achieved full state and federal licensure and certification from the Department of Public Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs. It has also posted some of the strongest clinical and quality-of-life outcomes in the country.
Healey said that the nursing-to-patient ratio is double the national average, hospitalizations and emergency room visits are down nearly 50% below the
In spring 2020, at least 76 military veterans who lived at the Veterans’ Home at Holyoke died of COVID-19. These deaths prompted multiple investigations, terminations and resignations, regulatory reforms and lawsuits.
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town, I think, very well,” Richards said. “You know, just working with boards is always fun because you become more than colleagues,
you become friends, and that’s what’s happened on the council. I’m going to miss the people I’ve served with.”
She added that she’s walking away with the lesson that anybody can do the job if they’re willing to put in the time.
national average, safety benchmarks are above the national average, and the home currently has a 100% satisfaction score from the residents.
The performance measures were drawn from internal clinical and operational data tracked by the home, veteran satisfaction surveys conducted through Pinnacle Quality Insights, and external federal reviews and safety benchmarks from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
In addition to the operational and clinical progress made at the Veterans Home over the last three years, construction continues on the new Veterans Home at Holyoke as part of a $482 million investment in veterans care infrastructure in Massachusetts.
The new facility will welcome its first residents this fall, according to Healey, with full project completion expected by summer 2028. The new Veterans Home will feature 234 long-term care beds, a specialized memory care unit, and a 40-person adult day health program designed to support both residents and veterans living throughout the surrounding community.
Healey said, “We owe [veterans] the very best care; we owe their families the assurance that they will be cared for like a family, and that’s why we’ve set out to build these brand new facilities.”
Healey added that the current home in Holyoke has been transformed thanks to the staff and team.
“Touring through this facility, and I’ve been here a few times,
“Do the research, just learn,” Richards said. “Learn everything you possibly can, because clearly, I had a degree in nursing. How did that teach me about town government?”
Once her final meetings are up, she said she is planning on taking
today, I just felt this overwhelming joy. The residents are so happy, so peaceful. You can tell that they love being here, they love one another, they love the staff, and you can see and really feel a sense of community.”
Although Goralnick applauded the executive team, staff and residents, he stated that the numbers are only part of the story.
There are currently 119 veterans who reside at the Veterans Home in Holyoke. At any given time, 40 staff members come for three shifts throughout the day. Goralnick also highlighted the team of nurse practitioners, certified nursing assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, dietary professionals, maintenance, social workers, administrators [and] mental health professionals.
“What makes this place special are the people,” Goralnick said. “I’ve worked at some of the finest institutions in this country, and I can say wholeheartedly, the
some time to focus on self-care, and maybe explore some new opportunities. She did say that she won’t be disappearing into the woodwork, and that you’ll most likely still be able to find her in the audience at meetings.
“It’s always been about the
staff here is beyond reproach, the team here is of the highest caliber. They deliver that care with love and compassion every single day.”
Veterans Home Executive Director Michael Lazo said all the positive reviews and statistics are because of the 317 staffers who value their jobs.
Garcia also commended the staff and local and state government for helping the Veterans Home reach its current success.
“For a very long time, we always hear from people, veterans, their families, people in our communities, everywhere, talk about what is it that government is doing for them?” Garcia stated. “I think that’s a wonderful and perfectly asked question because sometimes it does feel like government isn’t doing enough, but that’s not the case here in the commonwealth of Massachusetts, particularly here at the Soldiers’ Home in the city of Holyoke.”
community,” Richards said. “There is so much satisfaction in getting involved and making a difference. Back in 1988 when I was elected to the Board of Selectmen, I never expected that this would be a career, but it did turn into that and the journey has been amazing.”
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Gov. Maura Healey and other elected officials talk about the current level of success that Veterans Home of Holyoke is experiencing after touring the facility on May 27.
Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
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. The library will be closed on Friday, June 19, to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday. Adult programs:
• Caregiver Workshop: The Child Perspective, Understanding Common Childhood Triggers — Saturday, June 13, at 10 a.m.
• All About Beekeeping — Wednesday June 17 at 6 p.m. Teen programs: Fandom Club — Monday, June 15, at 2:30 p.m.
• Half-Day Hangout — Wednesday, June 17 at 11 a.m.
Children’s programs:
Pathways for Parents: Music & Movement — Monday, June 15, at 1 p.m. for ages 2-5 Pathways for Parents: Transportation Station — Tuesday, June 16, at 10 a.m. for ages birth to three years.
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 413525-5436.
• Western Mass Wheelers rides — Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon. Weather dependent.
• Belly Dance Classes — Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Low to medium impact. No previous experience necessary. $5 per class, payable to instructor.
• Everything Class: Stretch &
Strength — Mondays at 8:15
a.m. Stretch, Strength, Core, Balance, and a little cardio too! Seated or standing, bring your own light weights, if you choose. All levels welcome, class is for everyone. $5 per class, payable to the instructor.
Miss Senior Massachusetts Cameo Club — Friday, June 12, at 12:45 p.m. Come to the Senior Center for a fun variety show performance from the talented women of the Miss Senior Massachusetts Cameo Club. This program is partially funded by the East Longmeadow Cultural Council, a partner of the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
Musical Mingle — Monday, June 15, from 4:30-6 p.m. Come to the Senior Center for a night of fun, food and music. Play an instrument, see what musical workshops and lessons are available to you, and meet the staff of the Community Music School of Springfield who offers these programs at their location and in the surrounding senior centers. Light refreshments will be available. Registration is not required.
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.
Tailoring with Georgina Hamilton — Friday, June 12, from 10 a.m. to noon.
• The senior center welcomes seamstress extraordinaire, Georgina Hamilton, on the second and fourth Fridays of every month to help with your tailoring needs and more.
Memory Cafe: Drumming with Jason — Friday, June 12, at 10:15 a.m.
• Summer Kick Off Luncheon & 250th Celebration of Amer-
ica — Friday, June 12, at noon Enjoy a delicious lunch of BBQ chicken, potato salad, corn and cornbread provided by Greater Springfield Senior Services and stay for musical entertainment provided by “The Boomers”. Cost is $6.00 ($3 suggested donation for lunch and $3 for entertainment)
• Puzzle Palooza — Tuesday, June 16, from 1-3 p.m.
Financial planning appoitnments with Pat Sherman from Edward Jones — Wednesday, June 17. Call to schedule a 30-minute appointment.
The New England Air Museum: “The Crazy Man of the Air” — Wednesday, June 17, at 10 a.m.
Chair Massage with Mindy –by appointment — Wednesday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. $10 for a 10-minute appointment.
Lobby Learning: Loomis Communities — Thursday, June 18
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. The library will be closed on Friday, June 19, to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday.
Youth programs: Youth Chess (kindergarten and up) — Monday, June 15, 3:15-4:15 p.m.
• LHS Late Nights — On Sunday, June 14; Monday June 15; and Tuesday June 16 from 8-10 p.m., Longmeadow High School students are invited to study for final exams until 10 p.m. at Storrs Library.
• Read Cross: Stuffed Animal Hospital: Stuffed animal drop off — Tuesday, June 16, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Stories and Movement (ages 2 and up) — Tuesday, June 16, 9:30-10 a.m.
• Pathways for Parents: Newbies (ages birth to 18 months) — Tuesday, June 16, 10:4511:30 a.m.
• Patient Planters: Spectacular Soil! (ages 5-9 years) — Tuesday, June 16, 3:30-4:30 p.m. This engaging three-part workshop series invites children ages 5–9 to explore the powerful connection between mindfulness, co-regulation and the natural world.
• Pathways for Parents: Grow Play Learn (ages birth to 5 years) — Wednesday, June 17, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
• Energy Detectives — Wednesday, June 17, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Flower Storytime — Thursday, June 18, 9:30-10 a.m. A lapsit storytime for children ages 12 to 24 months with their caregiver.
Summer Bingo — Thursday, June 18, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
Adult programs: Traveling Library — Monday, June 15, 2:15-4:30 p.m.
• VIRTUAL: Play Along Ukulele from Home! — Monday, June 15, 7-8 p.m. Please register in advance at longmeadowlibrary.org! This program will take place via Zoom. Please register in advance at longmeadowlibrary.org! This program will take place via Zoom.
• Create Art with Crayons: Van Gogh’s Seascape Saintes Maries De La Mer w/ Marie Tucker — Tuesday, June 16, 6-7:30 p.m.
• Fiber Arts Meeting — Tuesday, June 16, 6-7:30 p.m. VIRTUAL: 50+ Job Seekers Networking Group — Wednesday, June 17, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
• Music Appreciation with Rob Humberston — Wednesday, June 17, 1-2:30 p.m.
• Weekly Writers Group — Thursday, June 18, 9:30-11 a.m. Bocce on the Lawn — Thurs-
day, June 18, 11 a.m. to noon.
• Library Virtual Speakers: Nurturing Future Generations: Stories from the Heart of Grandfatherhood with Ted Page — Thursday, June 18, from 2-4 p.m.
• Emergency Preparedness with the Red Cross: Extreme Heat — Thursday, June 18, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
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 413-565-4160 option 1.
• Statue of Liberty lecture with Bill Johnson — Wedenesday, June 17 at 6 p.m.
WILBRAHAM
WILBRAHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
The following programs take place at the Wilbraham Public Library, located at 25 Crane Park Drive. For more information or to sign up for programs, head to wilbrahamlibrary.org or call 413-596-6141. The library will be closed on Friday, June 19 to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday.
• Dementia: The New Pandemic & How to Protect Vulnerable Adults — Monday, June 15, from 6-7 p.m.
• Fifth Grade Step Up — Wednesday,
Simmons receives praise from Select Board in evaluation
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — Longmead-
ow Town Manager Lyn Simmons exceeded expectations across multiple fronts in the eyes of the Select Board during fiscal year 2026, with Chair Josh Levine stating in the annual evaluation that he continues to be impressed by her “professionalism, knowledge and patience.”
The town manager’s annual evaluation essentially works as a standard performance review. Select Board members go through 10 areas of performance criteria to rate on a scale of one to five, such as service and support to the Select Board, budget preparation and administration, human resource management and dealing with uncertainty and changing conditions.
“Not meeting expectations” is designated to a rating of one and “exceeds expectations” is a five. Simmons scored a 4.6 out of 5 average across the Select Board, with 31 ratings of five out of the 50 total. The remaining 19 ratings were all fours, “between exceeds expectations and meets expectations.”
Simmons’ evaluation was discussed at the Select Board meeting on June 1, with each member adding on additional kudos.
Vice Chair Vineeth Hemavathi, acting as chair on behalf of
an absent Levine, began the discussion, stating that the board is “very appreciative” to have Simmons as the town manager.
“I think that, taking a look at the evaluation and everyone’s comments, you know, they were overwhelmingly positive,” Hemavathi said. “I think, across the board, the things that we highlighted were some of the ways that Lyn has really done a great job putting in overarching plans, putting systems into place, the way that she carries herself in a professional way, is able to handle very difficult situations with a steady hand and is able to manage a whole lot of different areas and be very on top of things with communication.”
He said that the budgets for this year and last year were very difficult and Simmons was on top of it right from the beginning.
“What could have been messier and much more difficult budgets, weren’t, because of the very proactive actions that Lyn took,” Hemavathi said. “I know that one thing that I kind of kept coming back to in a lot of my answers was how I’ve really appreciated the way that Lyn is always seeking out new ideas and new ways of doing things and is not afraid to try new things.”
Hemavathi added that projects like road repaving and water mains have made a huge improve-
ment in town and they “wouldn’t have happened unless we had a town manager that was seeking out these ideas and then figuring out how to implement them.”
Select Board member Dan Zwirko said something that stands out to him is the praise that Simmons gets every year at the Massachusetts Municipal Association conference from colleagues and fellow town managers.
“They always are saying ‘you have a good town manager, you got a good one,’” Zwirko said. “Being a town manager, as we all know being close to Lyn, is a very, very difficult job. You deal with personnel issues, you have to deal with the Select Board and
across underserved communities.
so many projects across town, and Lyn, she’s done an amazing job.”
Zwirko added that everyone looks up to Simmons as the “North Star of town managers” in the state and that he is personally really glad to have Simmons as a town manager.
Select Board member Shelly Maynard-DeWolf said it’s very impressive to see how Simmon’s approaches the job and how she leads the town from a strategic perspective.
“I’ve seen the way we’re approaching certain topics, like budget or each department, different projects,” Maynard-DeWolf said. “The way you, kind of, bring it all together, you do it
so calmly and clearly … the time you take to deal with everybody individually cannot be easy but the way you’re helping us just organize the town and drive things forward on multiple levels is not only impressive, but it’s really greatly appreciated and I think you do a fantastic job with it.” Simmons said she was very humbled by everything that was said and that she can’t do “any of this without the staff.”
“I can’t do nearly as good of a job if I didn’t have the support of you all,” Simmons said. “If we didn’t work so well together as a team, none of this would be
LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University has received a $100,000 grant from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation to support the University’s “Bay Path Encircled Literacy Initiative,” a one-year pilot program designed to strengthen early literacy instruction in Springfield Public Schools.
The initiative will focus on equipping teachers and paraprofessionals from the same classrooms with shared training in the Science of Reading, an evidence-based approach to literacy instruction. By training educators together, the program aims to create consistent classroom literacy practices, enhance educator preparedness, and improve reading outcomes for students
The Bay Path Encircled Literacy Initiative is designed to serve as a scalable model that can be expanded to additional schools and districts in the future. Through collaborative professional development and practical classroom application, the program seeks to strengthen foundational literacy skills during the critical early years of learning.
“This generous support from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation reflects a shared commitment to student success,” states Dr. Ruth Lahti, dean of the School of Education, Psychology, and Humanities. “By investing in educators and evidence-based literacy instruction,
we have an opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on children’s reading achievement in Springfield.”
The pilot program will launch during the upcoming academic year and will bring together classroom teachers and paraprofessionals in a unified approach to literacy instruction rooted in research and best practices.
Longmeadow Select Board members give praise to Town Manager Lyn Simmons during a discussion on her annual evaluation.
Photo credit: LongmeadowTV
LYA to present Educate.Inspire.Lead!! on June 16
LONGMEADOW — Lubavitcher Yeshiva Academy will present Educate. Inspire. Lead!! a gala scholarship event on Tuesday, June 16.
LYA Leads in the classroom. “One thing that I enjoy about teaching at LYA is the individualized attention I can give my students,” remarked Ms. Rosaleen Lewis, recipient of the Educator Award for 2026. “Our low student/teacher ratio allows LYA to adapt instruction based on students’ interests and skills and allow them to take initiative.”
LYA Inspires the Community. “As we look to the future of our community, we see that LYA
plays a key role to keep Judaism flourishing in our ever-changing Western MA,” remarked Rudy and Stella Vogel, honorees of United Generations of 2026. “It is our hope that we can rally together to assist LYA become an even more effective fulcrum in our community.”
LYA Educates. “As our children progress through the grades we see more of the depth of LYA and how the administration cares about each and every child and works hard to meet all of their needs,” remarked Yoel and Malya Vogel, honorees of United Generations of 2026. “We admire the fact that LYA and staff are
constantly working to refine and advance in all areas of the school and improve on what they are already doing.”
Join LYA Tuesday, June 16, 2026 for the gala event held at JGS Lifecare, 770 Converse St. The gala event begins at 6:30 p.m. and the cost is $36 a person.
LYA will recognize Rudy and Stella Vogel, Yoel and Malya Vogel and family as United Generations Honorees. Award recipients will include Rosaleen Lewis with an Educator Award; Mayor Domenic J. Sarno with a Leadership Award and Derek Steinberg with Teen Inspiration Award. “Educate. Inspire. Lead!! is a
wonderful event that will allow LYA to share with the community what occurs in our building each day,” remarked Rabbi Noach Kosofsky, LYA Director.
“We are excited to honor members of our community who help LYA reach our goals.
“With this in mind, we are bringing Rabbi Chaim Mentz, a world-renowned international speaker who lectures on topics including education, marriage, Judaism, family life, and contemporary social issues, “ continued Rabbi Kosofsky. “His words will complement Educate. Inspire. Lead!! and leave the audience with practical wisdom, humor,
and timeless Jewish values.” Rabbi Chaim Mentz and his wife Charna are co-directors of Chabad of Bel Air, CA. Living among many people who work in the entertainment industry, Rabbi Mentz created and hosted a weekly cable television program called Basic Judaism, which aired for three years. He later hosted a radio program that ran for five years on KFI, one of the largest talk radio stations in America. Today, Mentz continues to share insight and commentary through appearances on cable TV. For more information or to purchase tickets please go to LYA.org or email info@lya.org.
MASBO presents Rising Star Award to Longmeadow resident
LINCOLN — The Massachusetts Association of School Business Officials has presented a 2026 Rising Star Award to Angela (Tianyi) Wang, director for business and finance in the Lincoln Public Schools. She was honored at the association’s recent 60th Annual Institute in Falmouth.
MASBO established the Rising Star Award to acknowledge the value and contributions of outstanding professionals within the first 10 years of their career as a school business administrator. The award includes registration and travel expenses for the recipient to
Select Board
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happening the way it’s happening. It is a group effort and I think that’s one of the big differences from what we see in a lot of other
attend ASBO International’s Annual Conference & Expo.
Dr. Parry Graham, superintendent of the Lincoln Public Schools, nominated Wang, citing the positive impact she has made in the district during her two years in the role. Graham noted that Wang helped redesign the internal budgeting process, creating more transparency for budget managers and the School Committee. She was also instrumental in securing a new five-year contract with the Department of Defense to operate the Hanscom School on the Hanscom Air Force Base,
communities that, they might be having some bigger challenges because they don’t have those working relationships that we have. I think no matter what we face, we’re going to come out of it much, much better because we do work well together … it
including improved forecasting and control systems for managing the contract.
“Angela is a key member of our district’s leadership team, helping to inform the strategic direction of the district,” said Graham. “She oversees multiple departments, including facilities and food services, and is able to consistently build positive and productive relationships. She is a true rising star and a tremendous asset to Lincoln.”
A resident of Longmeadow, Wang previously worked as payroll director for Springfield Public
makes me happy to show up and do the job.”
Simmon’s full evaluation with the compiled Select Board members’ ratings and explanations can be found in the June 1 agenda at longmeadowma.gov/AgendaCenter/Select-Board-8.
Schools; director for business and finance for Vernon Public Schools in Vernon, Connecticut; and School Business Administrator for South Hadley Public Schools. Wang said, “I am honored and humbled to receive this recognition. I feel this award is not only for me, but also for the colleagues, teams and mentors I have worked with over the years. I am grateful to MASBO, Lincoln Public Schools, Superintendent Graham, the School Committee, and the Administration team.”
Angela Wang Reminder Publishing submitted photo
EAST LONGMEADOW
Thompson parts from School Committee after two decades
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — East Longmeadow School Committee member and former Chair Gregory Thompson is saying goodbye after choosing not to run for reelection in this year’s election. He spent around eight years of his 19-year career as the chair until the committee’s reorganization in March to prepare for Dr. Joanne Menard’s July start date as superintendent, nominating and appointing Antonella Raschilla Manzi as the new chair. Thompson grew up in East
Longmeadow, being one of three generations to pass through the East Longmeadow schools, and said he wanted to get involved since his daughters would be attending the schools as well.
He first became a library trustee in 2005 because his oldest daughter participated in story time, making the switch to School Committee in 2007 while she was in pre-school.
Thompson was working in education as a physical education and health teacher in Westfield and started a lawn business at the same time, leading him to make a decision between the two.
LIONS CLUB NAMES LION OF THE YEAR — Lion Lloyd Oakes being presented a Diamond Melvin Jones Fellowship at Mario’s Cafe Ambiance on May 13. The Melvin Jones Fellowship is the highest award with which a club can honor one of their members. Melvin Jones was the founder of Lions Clubs International in 1917 in Chicago. Oakes has been a Lion for 40 years, serving as president, membership director, as well as in several other capacities. He is also a past Lion of the Year recipient. A true Lion fulfilling our motto of “We Serve”! For more information about the East Longmeadow Lions Club, visit their Facebook page, facebook.com/profile.php/?id=61566743941068. Pictured are Past Zone Chairman Scott Grabowski, Lion Lloyd Oakes and East Longmeadow Lion’s President Susan Grimaldi.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
“Unfortunately, I wasn’t home often to see my two young children,” Thompson said. “So I decided to stop teaching, continue with my business and run for School Committee. To be honest, when I was all the way through high school, I didn’t know the School Committee existed, so there’s some irony to that … as I said, my daughters would be attending the school system, so I just wanted to be a part of it.”
He said joining was somewhat of a personal decision, but a decision also rooted in the fact of his desire to give back to the town and a general interest
in politics.
“I think local politics is where a lot of things get done that affect our lives at a real level,” Thompson said. “I feel like, in a small way, I’ve contributed to this town and that’s why I’ve continued for so long, and really the people that I’ve worked with, the School Committee members … The staff is great. We have a fantastic superintendent and two great assistant superintendents. We’ve really worked well together.”
Thompson said that he is proud to have been able to support the students and teachers, and that budgeting can be a challenge because of the importance of fully funding education. He added that the district is great for education and that he’s proud to be a small part of continuing that reputation.
The new high school build has also been a highlight for Thompson, as he’s been heavily involved in the East Longmeadow High School Building Committee.
“Being a part of a project this size has not only taught me a lot, but has been very interesting,” Thompson said. “This school is going to be fantastic. When it’s done, I’ll really be able to look back and know the part that I played had some impact on this town because I think this high school is going to be one of the best things to ever happen to the community, not only the students, but the community as a whole.”
As a parting message to the School Committee, Thompson said to keep the focus on the students, staff and the district and that he hopes the committee continues what it’s doing to make education even better.
Thompson will still be involved after his time with the School Committee is done, as he’s been granted by the School Committee to see the high school project through with the ELHS Building Committee. He is also leaving the potential of running for something else in the future open and on the table.
“I really enjoy working on behalf of this town,” Thompson said. “I’m not going far away. I’m going to keep an eye on things and I told my fellow School Committee members if I can ever be of help in the future, I’m just a phone call away.”
He added that East Longmeadow is a great place to live and that he’s proud to have served on the School Committee for as long as he did.
“I will miss it, I will miss the people,” Thompson said. “I will miss the challenges that it has presented, but I’m certainly looking forward to the next chapter of my work with the town.”
School Committee member and former Chair Gregory Thompson. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
WILBRAHAM WOMEN’S CLUB AWARDS FOUR SCHOLARSHIPS — On May 21, the Wilbraham Women’s Club presented four, $1,500 scholarships to the following Minnechaug Regional High School students at the Wilbraham Country Club luncheon: Allison Demetri, daughter of Lynette and Philip Demetri who will study business and marketing; Elizabeth Woytowicz, daughter of Katie and Joe Woytowicz, who will attend St. Lawrence University and study math and sciences, Tyler Jaslanek, son of Walter and Amy Jaslanek, who will study mechanical engineering at WPI; and Elijah Webster, son of Alison and Steven Webster, who will attend the Colorado School of Mines and major in Engineering. Each student was presented a Certificate of Achievement at the MRHS Evening of Recognition on May 13 as well. Pictured from left to right: Elizabeth Woytowicz, Allison Demetri, Elijah Webster and Tyler Jaslanek.
HAMPDEN NATIVE EARNS
DOCTOR OF PODIATRIC MEDICINE DEGREE FROM MIDWESTERN UNIVERSITY — Lay-
la Mary Galavotti of Hampden, has completed the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree at the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine of Midwestern University. Conferring of degrees took place in a graduation ceremony held at Midwestern University’s Glendale Campus Auditorium on June 2. Galavotti is the daughter of Hampden residents Capt. Louis (Joe) and Dr. Cynthia Galavotti. She graduated from Minnechaug Regional High School in 2016 and earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Sacred Heart University in 2020. After graduation, Galavotti plans to complete a podiatric residency program at Boston Medical Center in Boston.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
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– NOTICE –
This notice is provided in compliance with the provisions of Chapter 85 of the Acts of 2000 of Massachusetts law and the Massachusetts Rights-Of-Way Management Regulations 333 CMR 11.00.
The railroad companies listed below will be controlling vegetation on their rights-of-way both by mechanical means and the selective use of approved herbicide products, in conformance with approved Vegetation Management Plans and approved Yearly Operational Plans. Copies of these Yearly Operational Plans are available in your municipal office building at the Board of Health, Board of Selectmen (or Mayor), and Conservation Commission.
This annual program is necessary for public safety, to provide required sight distance, to provide well-drained and stable roadbeds, to reduce fire danger, and to allow for required inspection of track and roadbed structure. Approved herbicide applications will be accomplished by either backpack or on-track vehicles, and will be with Aquaneat, Opensight, Milestone, Oust XP, Roundup Pro Concentrate, Esplanade 200SC, Escort XP and/or Patriot. Only products approved by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and Environmental Protection Agency (MGL c. 132B sec. 6B) will be used.
Schedule for Herbicide Applications:
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
Scantic River Artisans rings in summer with art show
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
HAMPDEN — Scantic River Artisans is preparing for its rapidly approaching June show, featuring original art handpicked by a team of professional painters to ensure buyers a high-quality purchase.
“Celebrate Art,” Scantic River Artisans’ eighth annual juried art show, is being held on June 13-14 in the Hampden Senior Center’s Community Room, 104 Allen St. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.
The event will also include a free art raffle for a painting by Scantic River Artisans member Joyce Donovan. Refreshments will also be available on both days with live music and a reception with many of the artists from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday. Awards will be presented at 2 p.m.
Scantic River Artisans has over 65 members from Wilbraham, Hampden and the surrounding towns, with a mission to “connect the community through diverse, dynamic and creative experiences,” a press
release said.
“Scantic River Artisans provides opportunities for local artists of all ages and skill levels to explore, develop and market their creations,” the release said.
Juried art shows are a competitive exhibition where artists submit their work to be selected by a group of jurors. Only the work selected by the jurors will be featured at this art show, all original work that is available for purchase. Jurors this year include Alex Ranniello and Eliza Moser.
Ranniello is an award-winning artist from Enfield, Connecticut, that specializes in portraiture and figure painting, utilizing oil pastels, colored pencils and acrylics. He has been featured in over 120 group and solo shows.
Moser is a contemporary realist painter, originally from Springfield, whose work reflects “classical realist methods,” the release said. She was introduced to fine art at the age of 14 and has since opened her own studio in South Hadley.
Moser has studied art extensively, with time at the Florence Academy of Art in Florence, It-
aly and was the youngest artist at the time to be accepted into the Academic Artists Association’s 62nd National Exhibition in 2012. Scantic River Artisans said this event will have something for everybody to appreciate,
with wall art in oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastel, mixed media and sculpture. Likely work to be found at this show include art from Artisans member Brian McQuillan, who recently won first place in the Monson Arts Council juried
show for his sculpture, “Ma.”
Member Donna Villamaino was also featured at this event for her painting “Path to Memories.”
More information on the event and the Scantic River Artisans can be found at scanticriverartisans.com.
Puppolo announces $120,000 for computer upgrades in HWRSD
BOSTON — State Rep. Angelo J. Puppolo Jr. recently announced that $120,000 has been secured for the Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District.
The funding will support districtwide computer replacement efforts and upgrades to comput-
er graphics classrooms, ensuring students and educators have access to modern technology and learning resources.
“Investing in educational technology is an investment in our students’ future,” said Puppolo. “These funds will help provide
students with the tools they need to succeed in today’s increasingly digital world while supporting educators with updated classroom resources. I am pleased to see this funding included and remain committed to supporting investments that strengthen educational
opportunities for students in our communities.”
The funding will assist the district in maintaining and upgrading essential technology infrastructure, helping to ensure that students have access to reliable equipment and enhanced learning environments.
This funding reflects Puppolo’s continued commitment to supporting local schools and advocating for state investments that improve educational resources and opportunities for students throughout the 12th Hampden District.
Among the previous events hosted by the Scantic River Artisans was a juried art show in June 2025. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
Monson Savings Bank names new vice president
MONSON — Monson Savings Bank recently announced the appointment of Wendy L. Wakefield as vice president, director of residential lending.
“Wendy’s depth of experience in residential lending, combined with her leadership and commitment to customer success, make her an excellent addition to our team,” said Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “We are confident that her expertise will further strengthen our mortgage operations and enhance the services we provide to our customers.”
In her new role, Wakefield will oversee the bank’s mortgage department, leading residential lending operations and supporting the bank’s continued commitment to helping individuals and families achieve their homeownership goals.
Wakefield brings more than 20 years of experience in banking and financial services, including 13 years specializing in residential lending. She most recently worked at North Brookfield Savings Bank, where she was responsible for lending compliance, project management and loan servicing. Her extensive background and leadership experience will play a key role in enhancing the Bank’s residential lending services.
Wakefield holds a bachelor’s degree in business from New England College of Business and a project management certification from Cornell University. Her educational background supports her strong operational leadership, strategic planning capabilities and commitment to delivering efficient, customer-focused lending solutions.
Wakefield plays an active leadership role internally at Monson Savings Bank, contributing to the bank’s Audit, Compliance, and CRA/Fair Lending committees. In these capacities, she supports key strategic and regulatory initiatives, helping to uphold the bank’s strong commitment to compliance, risk management and responsible lending practices. Her involvement highlights her dedication to maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence and reinforcing the bank’s mission-driven approach to serving its communities.
Outside of her role at the bank, Wakefield is engaged in her local community as a participant in the Rutland Youth Soccer League. Her community involvement further reflects her dedication to supporting families and strengthening the communities she serves.
Wakefield shared that she was drawn to Monson Savings Bank because of its strong reputation and commitment to the communities it serves. She looks forward to collaborating with her colleagues and contributing to the bank’s continued growth and success.
“I’m excited to join the team at Monson Savings Bank,” said Wakefield. “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about helping individuals and families achieve homeownership, and I look forward to working alongside a group that shares those same values. Together, we will continue delivering trusted guidance and expand the ways we empower individuals and families to reach their homeownership goals.”
To contact Wakefield, call 413-267-1216 or email wwakefield@monsonsavngs.com.
To learn more about Monson Savings Bank and its team, visit monsonsavings.bank.
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — At exactly 4:38 p.m. on a pleasant and sunny June 1, the bell of Old First Church in Court Square rang 15 times, one for each year since a devastating EF3 tornado carved a path of destruction through the city of Springfield and nine other communities.
Tornadoes are common in the Midwest and southeastern states, like Tennessee and Alabama, but they are nearly unheard of in New England, where weather conditions are generally not right for such events. In the days leading up to June 1, 2011, however, meteorologists had been tracking a storm system coming east over Canada and the Great Lakes, drawing warm, moist air, while a cold front moved north. Together, these factors created instability in the atmosphere. When an upper-level jet stream brought significant wind shear over New England, all the ingredients were present to form a tornado.
A tornado warning was issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration at 3:28 p.m. for parts of the Pioneer Valley. Another warning was issued less than an hour later for the greater Springfield area.
The tornado first touched down at 4:17 p.m. in Westfield, before cutting a trail through northern Agawam and West Springfield. When it crossed the Connecticut River into Springfield, a news camera atop Monarch Place caught video of the cyclone wending its way between Memorial Bridge and the North End Bridge.
The tornado tipped a tractor
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield leadership has continued its work to improve the city’s neighborhood parks, with the unveiling of renovated grounds at Blunt Park. Until recently, the park’s softball fields and track were worn, with patchy grass and cracked asphalt. The parking area was poorly graded, with significant potholes and it flooded
trailer on Memorial Bridge onto its side like a child discarding a toy truck. More than 500 homes and businesses were destroyed, with roofs pierced by trees and buildings knocked off their foundation. The winds, which were estimated to have peaked at 160 miles per hour, sucked the mattresses out of dormitory windows at Springfield College. People sustained injuries from flying glass and debris. The South End, East Forest Park and Sixteen Acres neighborhoods suffered extensive damage. In total, about one-third of the city was affected.
The funnel left the city behind, spreading damage and disaster through Wilbraham, Monson, Brimfield, Sturbridge, Southbridge and Charlton, before evaporating at 5:27 p.m. In just over one hour, it caused three deaths, hundreds of injuries and millions of dollars in property damage. It left a scar on the landscape and the memory of Western and central Massachusetts.
At the ceremony on the City Hall steps marking the 15th anniversary, Mayor Domenic Sarno said, “God works in mysterious ways. If this had occurred at 2:38 in the morning, there would have been no warning whatsoever. And if this occurred at 2:38 in the afternoon, all our kids, our students, including mine, my own daughters, were in school at that time. So, think of what could have happened.”
Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers was a motorcycle patrol officer at the time of the storm. He and his wife were watching “Die Hard” on television, and he remembered being irritated that the weather alerts kept interrupting the movie. Then, he received
during rainstorms.
“Tommy probably could have launched the duck boats there,”
Mayor Domenic Sarno joked, referring to Thomas Ashe, executive director of parks, buildings and recreation management.
Ashe described the improvement unveiling as “a tremendous day” for the city and the Parks Department. He thanked the state legislative delegation for securing partial funding and the department’s staff. City
a call from a friend asking if he was all right. That was when Akers turned the news on and saw what had happened.
“I was shocked. What actually hit me the hardest was when I went up on Island Pond Road. I looked and there were no trees, there were no nothing, and I became very emotional,” he said. “To just look at it and see nothing there and homes destroyed, and just — no trees. That’s when it really set in.” Akers recalled the immediate aftermath of the storm. “People were out there just, not knowing what in the world to do,” he said. “People were just shook, you know, as I was.”
Sarno recalled the oppressive humidity that hung over everything that day. He was driving back to City Hall after taking his daughter to an appointment when he heard that the tornado had touched down. He described the damage as “unimaginable,” and said the “devastation in certain areas was unrecognizable.” He spoke about the monumental task of clearing rubble and wreckage from sites across the city. People put debris on the tree belt for the city to collect. Sarno said teams were working for up to 18 hours per day during the weeks after the storm. All the while, the city had to continue providing services for the parts of the city that had been spared from destruction.
The mayor praised the tireless efforts of the city’s first responders and the kindness of neighbors helping neighbors. “It was the people that kept us going. My team and with help from the state” and Congressional delegation, he said. “Everywhere we went, it was really the people, who said, ‘Mayor Sarno, it’s going to be
Councilor Kateri Walsh said the Parks Department “always responds to needs in the community.” She congratulated everyone involved.
Campora Construction Company completed the work on the park. Vice President James Soffen recalled that when he attended the High School of Science and Technology, the school would use the park’s facilities during gym class. When the project came up for bid, he said, “I
okay.’” Sarno said he built relationships during the challenging times that continue today. Akers had similar memories. He said, “You saw everyone coming with chainsaws and cutting trees in front of people’s homes. People would just have people coming over. I had a few people come to my house because I didn’t lose power or anything because our lines were underground up there, and people would come to my house.” Akers noted that he had 13 rooms and space to temporarily house friends. “I saw that all over the city. People just helping people, bringing food and everything.”
Sarno said he doggedly pursued funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other government departments to cover the roughly $138 million of cleanup. Over the fol-
knew I wanted it.” He described renovating the space as “a full circle” experience. The project, which cost about $800,000, included paving the track, seeding the fields and adding picnic tables. The entire parking lot was regraded to eliminate flooding issues. The Campora performed the primary work last winter, but it had to wait for warmer weather to pave.
Lamari Jackson, state Sen. Adam Gomez’s district direc-
lowing six years, the city was rebuilt. Today, there are only a few left vacant since the storm. 2011 was a tumultuous year for Springfield. “First we had the ice storm in January, then you the tornado, same year, then we had a microburst and freak nor’easter that occurred pre-Halloween in October,” Sarno said. The city also suffered a gas explosion the following year. “We dealt with it so well that we were the only standalone city to receive the resiliency grant in the United States of America,” Sarno said. As a leader in times of crisis, he said, “You got to let people know what happened, what you’re going to do about it, and just as important, hope — we’re going to get through this together.”
Akers said, “Springfield and her residents are resilient. We’ve proven that time and time again.”
tor, attended the ribbon cutting. Speaking on behalf of the senator, she said that when most people think of protecting parks, their mind goes to state and federal land. However, she said the work begins at the local level.
“Our parks are nice and clean,” said state Rep. Bud Williams, who has attended many park reopenings in the city. “This is owned by the people, for the people, to the people... Let’s respect it.”
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno makes remarks about the 2011 tornado before a bell tolls in commemoration.
Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
‘La Casita Experience’ to transform MassMutual Center
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — The MassMutual Center will soon host one big celebration of community, blending music and dance, live performances, DJ sets and interactive visuals to represent the high energy nightlife experience rooted in Puerto Rican culture.
“La Casita Experience” rolls into Springfield on June 27, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and the event at 7 p.m. Tickets are $39 for general admission and $67 for VIP.
The event is inspired by the traditional casita, which translates to “little house,” but culturally represents a deep symbol of home and community. Venues
NORTHAMPTON — Reser-
vations are going fast for Valley Players’ music-, magic- and dancing-filled production of “The Tempest,” with half of net ticket sales to be donated to the Center for New Americans to support immigrant and refugee families in the Valley.
The will show go up as a picnic-theater performance at Black Birch Vineyard, 108 Straits Road, Hatfield, on June 11, 12, 19, and 20 at 6:30 p.m. and June 21 at 5:30 p.m. There will also be a one-time performance at the Northampton Center for the Arts, 33 Hawley St., on June 13 at 4:30 p.m.
Tickets are on a pay-what-youcan scale starting at $15 and can be booked at valleyplayers.org. While the June 11 and 12 performances are currently sold out, more tickets may become available for those shows depending on the weather. If more tickets open for those shows, notice will be posted at valleyplayers.org and through Valley Players’ social media and email list.
Guests to the performances
are transformed into immersive Caribbean environments where culture lives and breathes, with a custom-built casita structure surrounded by live salsa, bomba y plena performances and nonstop reggaeton.
It is the work of MLopez Promotions, a full service event production and entertainment company, created by Marcos Lopez, that has created high quality live experiences across the northeast for over a decade.
The mission of “La Casita Experience” is to “create cultural experiences to authentically represent Puerto Rican heritage and empower local communities by providing opportunities for artists, vendors and creatives to showcase their talent,” a press
at Black Birch can bring a meal to enjoy during the show or can grab an artisanal pizza from The Vintner’s Slice food truck, as well as choose from a selection of fine wines and other drinks, including non-alcoholic options, from Black Birch Vineyard.
“In our production, there’s something for everyone,” Franks said. “Young love requited, old men vindicated, frolicking fools and goddesses dancing. The audience can relax in a bucolic setting with a picnic and wine, and imagine being at London’s open-air Globe playhouse as our players
release said.
“‘La Casita Experience’ is more than just a cultural event, it is a movement that inspires pride, fosters unity and leaves a lasting legacy of cultural appreciation and community empowerment,” the release stated.
The event is following massive success in Rochester, New York, where it sold out to over 1,000 patrons. It makes a stop in Buffalo, New York, before heading to Springfield.
Jessica Del Valle, who was brought in to assist with marketing and communications for the event, said it’s partly rooted in the experience of a Bad Bunny concert and aligns with the concept of promoting culture, ambiance and the traditions of
bring to life Shakespeare’s beautiful words and vision at sunset in the Vineyard.”
“Part of Valley Players’ mission is to build community through community theater,” noted Pangallo, which is why the group donates half of net ticket revenue from each show to another Valley nonprofit with a mission that aligns with the story or themes of the play.
“‘The Tempest’ shows that the power of compassion and being welcoming is greater even than any magical power,” Pangallo explained, “and that what makes us human is our capacity for empa-
Puerto Rico.
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, recently transformed the field at the 2026 Super Bowl’s Apple Music Halftime Show into a full casita experience, similar to this event, that blended many aspects of Puerto Rican life and culture.
“This is just a whole vibrant event that really inspires, fosters unity and leads a legacy of cultural appreciation and community empowerment,” Del Valle said. “Anyone that appreciates diversity and enjoys embracing cultural diversity, music, rhythm, will definitely engage with and appreciate the experience. It’s a very colorful and vibrant experience … it’s basically the unity,
thy.” Because of this, and because the play centers on cultural contact, the plight of the stranger and the power of language, Valley Players decided to use this production to support the Center for New Americans.
“It was a natural fit,” Pangallo said, “and given the context of our own historical moment, we felt it important to support the crucial
community and tolerance in a festive ambiance, in a safe space where music and dances and artistic values can be combined.”
She said the experience in Springfield will be larger than previous shows, so they’re excited to build the space with the “ambiance that people enjoy.”
“There’s usually good Puerto Rican food and there are a lot of surprises that we try to implement in every city that we go to,” Del Valle said.”
She gave special recognition to the MassMutual Center, Springfield Downtown, and the Springfield Puerto Rican Parade for giving support to the event. Tickets can be purchased at massmutualcenter.com/events/ detail/lacasitaexperience.
Sarno threatens to end free buses after Union Station incident
By Sarah Heinonen and Dennis Hackett
sheinonen@thereminder.com and dhackett@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — In the wake of an incident involving dozens of youth gathered at Union Station and resulting in the arrests of eight teens, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno announced a crackdown on young people using the location as a “hang out.” Seeing fare-free buses as part of the problem, he also announced he would seek to eliminate them in the city. However, elected officials have pushed back on that plan.
At a press conference on June 2, Metro Unit Commander Lt. Brian Elliott said that between 50 and 70 young people came to Union Station on June 1, with some participating in violent interactions. He said that in the 48 hours prior to the press conference, police made eight arrests there. Elliott also said that one officer sustained a broken finger and another broke their wrist while arresting the youth.
“This isn’t us against the kids,” said Elliott. “I was born and raised here, raised my sons here. This has nothing to do with us against them, police against juveniles.” He said, “This is behavior, antisocial behavior. You look at the news, any nightly news, and you see this across the country. There’s curfews in Washington, D.C. There’s curfews at the beach in New Jersey. Something happened at the beach in Rhode Island, New Hampshire over Memorial Day weekend. Springfield’s no different. We’re
seeing it across the country, but I’m here to tell you, it’s over here at Union Station.”
Addressing the incident, Sarno said, “Last night, it turned my stomach. It was disgusting. The disrespect that some of our young people continue to show our public safety officials. Somebody could have been really hurt. God forbid somebody could have been killed, and we’re not going to tolerate it.”
He said, “That young lady who had to be subdued, and was fighting and was combative. I’ll never forget those words she said. ‘If I had a gun, I’d shoot every one of you cops.’ That can’t be tolerated.”
The mayor declared, “I don’t care if we have to make 15, 18, 20 arrests today. We’re going to do it. And to the parents, we’re asking you to set an alarm to know where the hell your kids are. And we’re going to be looking for parental escorts.”
Sarno said fare-free buses are a contributing issue. Citing Boston and New Bedford as precedents, he said, “This free bus has got to go. You want to do special vouchers, and this and that. You know what? Fine. Because they get on, they come down here, they hang out, they want to fight, they want to be disrespectful, they cause havoc. Our travelers don’t need to see that.”
Sarno continued, “And to the parents and the kids saying, ‘You’re being too heavy-handed, Sarno,’ I’m just as compassionate as the next person. We have a lot of positive youth activities you can do. If I can help you, I’ll help you.
But we could be saving your kids’ life. So, just remember that.”
Sarno’s plan to eliminate fare free buses hit opposition on June 3, as state Rep. Bud Williams and At Large City Councilor Justin Hurst released a joint statement. “The residents of Springfield and beyond must understand that Fare Free Transit is funded by the state and is already codified into law by our state delegation. This means that in spite of Mayor Sarno’s desire to eliminate it, he has no jurisdiction to do so,” the statement read.
While the two officials felt that public safety “must remain a priority,” they stated that eliminating free public transportation would punish others in the community.
“It would punish the senior citizen who relies on public transportation to get to doctor’s appointments, pick up prescriptions and maintain their independence,” they wrote. “It would punish the hardworking parent who depends on the bus to get their child to daycare before heading to work. It would punish the student who relies on public transportation to get to school, extracurricular activities, and opportunities that help shape their future. And it would punish countless working families who depend on these services every day to get to their jobs so they can provide for their loved ones.”
The statement continued, “Instead of simply locking our young people up, we should be building relationships with them, mentoring them, investing in opportunities for them and creating pathways to success. When young people feel connected to their community, they are far more likely to become part of the solution. We must resist the temptation to take the easy way out as transportation is not a luxury — but a necessity.”
City Councilor At Large Jose Delgado also said he was opposed to eliminating free bus service in a statement released on June 4, and
highlighted the importance of accessible transportation.
“Mobility drives opportunity. Access to transportation is something Springfield residents rely on to get to jobs, school, medical appointments, childcare and the broader regional economy,” he said.
Delgado also noted the current economic climate and how free bus service can help alleviate economic strain on families.
“Families are already struggling with the rising cost of housing, groceries and everyday expenses. Eliminating free bus service would place an additional burden on those who can least afford it. We should focus on targeted solutions, not broad punishments,” Delgado said.
Delgado added that he was looking forward to bringing city leadership. public safety officials, community organizations and the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority together to discuss improving safety at Union Station while protecting transportation access.
In a June 4 statement, City Council President Tracye Whitfield called Sarno’s comments an “impulsive reaction to a complex issue.” She also encouraged cooperation in finding a solution.
“The goal should be to address problematic behavior without punishing the overwhelming majority of riders who use the system responsibly. Let’s work together to find thoughtful, effective solutions that improve safety and accountability while maintaining access to a service that so many people depend on every day,” she wrote.
In a letter to PVTA Administrator Sandra Sheehan on June 4, Sarno appeared to walk back his comments about removing the fare free program.
“I want to be clear, I fully support a structured ridership program, including fare-free busing so that individuals of all ages including seniors, working adults, students,
mothers with young children, etc., can take advantage of this resource and service and get to their medical appointments, jobs and classes,” he wrote.
He said there needs to be a structured system in place to prevent disturbances, such as the one on June 1, and to identify bad actors. Sarno formally requested the structured system in his letter through the city’s weighted vote on the PVTA Advisory Board.
“If we can hold them accountable for their actions and remove them from the situation, I am confident that we can provide a very beneficial service to the vast majority of our riders, including seniors, working adults and good young students, so that they can safely go about their day,” he said.
Sarno suggested using a voucher system for fare free rides.
“This can be a fare-free voucher system where a Fare Engagement Representative is tasked and trained in youth engagement, de-escalation and customer service assistance to help enhance boarding and transit while also eliminating or reducing rider altercations both on and off the bus,” he wrote.
Sarno concluded his letter by thanking the PVTA for the work it does and said he was looking forward to working with them to address the safety concerns.
On June 5, the PVTA announced in a statement that it would not be getting rid of the farefree bus program.
“At the direction of the PVTA Advisory Board, PVTA is continuing the fare-free program until further notice. Funding to continue the program has been included in the House, Senate, and Governor’s budget proposals. However, until a final state budget is approved by the Legislature and signed by the Governor, PVTA cannot confirm the duration of fare free service,” the statement read.
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
Alice M. Kovitch
Jeannine M. Martell
Roger A. Nelson
Leshia A. O’Neill-Wolcott
Robert Peterson
EAST LONGMEADOW
Sandra Quadrozzi
HOLYOKE
Rene D. Dulude
Ann C. Gorman
Pearson P. Helliwell Jr.
Thomas W. Manning
LONGMEADOW
Kenneth Norman Kinsley
Jacques C. Leroy
Philomena Novitt
LUDLOW
William “Bill” Jarosz
Florence Shea
Linda May Veratti
SOUTH HADLEY
Harvey L. Cook
SPRINGFIELD
Angelina A. Braica
Isabel A. Dumais
Thomas George Gillan Jr.
Josephine Anne Giorgi
Mark W. LaBonte
Barbara J. Murphy
Carter Lee Powell
George E. Sampson
Pasquale Scibelli
Walter J. Solzak
Richard L. Talbot
WILBRAHAM
Jeanne Denoncourt
Dana R. Gahres
Ethan Goodman gets a good pitch to hit as Longmeadow plays in the WMass baseball championship on May 23.
Alejandro Santiago charges, fields and makes the
Mckenzie Keane, Emersynn Cage and Rhaya Manning (L-R) cheer as the Lancers rally for two runs in the seventh. Jack Walker scores during Longmeadow’s seventh-inning rally.
Chet Bouchard makes the sliding catch of the foul pop-up.
Daniel Fisk attacks the net for East Longmeadow.
East Longmeadow goalie Cody Shaw stops the
shot for
of his 14 saves during the WMass lacrosse semi-final on May 20.
East Longmeadow’s Gavin Goncalves vies for the loose ball with Agawam goalie Doug Mackinnon.
Luke Miller guards Agawam’s Thomas Casey behind the Spartans net.
Will Fox ties the score 10-10 early in the fourth quarter.
Belben, 56 White St.
PALMER
51 Summit Avenue LLC, to James Hart and Laura Griffin, 1242 South Main St.
Rosemary Leduc to Sovattra Naw, 1007 Foster St.
SPRINGFIELD
Alexander R. Dones-Schipper and Deliana Donnelly to Nery Bernal,
J. Pulowski and Carol J. Labaj to Denisse Gutierrez Reyes and Kennix
Dan Sweeney and Daniel W. Sweeney to Square Deal Properties LLC, ES Marine
Diane Savino to Tiana Piteo, 27 Williamsburg Drive Unit 27
Eric L. Melendez Gerena and Evelyn Roman Medina to Alicia N. Rodriguez, 15 Florida
EAST LONGMEADOW - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY
144 Papers: St. Joseph Dr., Wisteria Ln., Pembroke Terr., Rockingham Cir., Dartmouth Ln., Partial - Prospect St., Chestnut St., Somers Rd.
129 Papers: Gerrard Ave., Holy Cross Cir., Kingston Ave., Lombard Ave., Nelson St., Roderick Ave., Partial- N. Main St.
166 Papers: Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only)
131 Papers: Shawmut St., Mayfair St., Westminster St., Thompkins Ave., Partial-Gates Ave
64 Papers: Anne St., Helen Cir., John St., Vadnais St., Converse Cir.
161 Papers: Burbank Rd., Farmington Rd., Ellington Rd., Oakwood Rd., Partial-Converse St.
174 Papers: Orchard Rd., Pine Grove Cir., Partial-Parker St., Porter Rd., Allen St.
207 Papers: Dover Rd., Birchwood Ave., Benedict Ter., Roseland Ter., Colony Rd.
62 Papers: Magnolia Cir., Primrose Dr., Merriweather Dr., Vanguard Ln., Ridge Rd.
229 Papers: Blueberry Hill Rd., Concord Rd., Green Willow Dr., Tanglewood Dr., Redfern Dr.
LONGMEADOW - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY
83 Papers: Williamsburg Dr., Eunice Dr., Tabor Crossing, Morgan Ridge, Burns Meadow, Churchill Dr., Partial - Converse St.
84 Papers: Chandler Ave., Partial - Longmeadow St.
109 Papers: Birnie Rd., Brookside Dr., Crescent Rd., Longview Dr., Fairhill Dr., Partial - Longmeadow St.
54 Papers: Bliss Rd.
87 Papers: Andover Rd., Ashford Rd., Cranwell Ln., Deerfield Ave., Willow Cir., Williston Dr., Willow Brook Rd., Partial - Frank Smith Rd.
157 Papers: Albemarle Rd., Arcadia St., Barclay St., Chiswick St., Fairway Dr., Franklin Rd., Lincoln Pk., Whitmun Rd., Woodmont Rd.
96 Papers: Brookwood Dr., Kenmore Dr., Knollwood Dr., Partial - Shaker Rd.
99 Papers: Barbara Ln., Quinnehtuk Rd., Village Dr., Pioneer Dr., Partial - Maple Rd., Frank Smith Rd., Wolf Swamp Rd.
100 Papers: Norway St., Nevins Ave., Partial - Maple Rd.
157 Papers: Birch Rd., Yarmouth St., King Philip Dr., Sheffield Ave.,
