EAST LONGMEADOW | LONGMEADOW | HAMPDEN | WILBRAHAM
The Reserve, Lions Club team up for eyeglass drive
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — Two local East Longmeadow organizations recently came together to collect over 100 pairs of eyeglasses to help provide vision assistance to those in need.
The idea for an eyeglass drive in town sparked when Jordana O’Connell, resident engagement director for The Reserve at East Longmeadow, decided she wanted to give back directly to the community and reached out to the East Longmeadow Lions Club.
The Reserve is an assisted living and memory care facility in town managed by LCB Senior Living, which O’Connell said asks all of its communities to put on some form of quarterly donation drive. O’Connell had already assisted the Wilbraham Lions Club with a drive, and thought it was time to bring it to East Longmeadow.
The front page of the Lions Club website states “we are best known for fighting blindness.” The club has a mission of providing vision for all and follows through with it by conducting vision screenings, equipping hospitals and clinics, distributing medicine and raising awareness of eye disease.
The Lions Club also extends its commitment to eradicating blindness through the SightFirst Program, which has helped restore, improve and preserve the vision of millions around the world since 1990.
With just a collection box set
up at The Reserve, the organizations were able to bring in 119 pairs of glasses.
“All we had to do was set up our little collection container at the front,” O’Connell said. “We shared it on Facebook and a lot of people who came to visit in our community, in our living facility, would drop off the glasses … it was just a wonderful opportunity for us to give back to the local Lions Club. A lot of people tend to have glasses sitting around, and if we know that we can donate it to people in need, that’s a win-win in our book.”
O’Connell said that giving back to the community is always important and it’s something that she “personally holds valuable.”
“Our agency is a larger management company, but I like the fact that we’re donating locally,”
O’Connell said. “I think that has the most impact. I know that a lot of the people at our facility, at The Reserve, are local so everybody wants to keep it local and make sure it’s going to people in the area that might be in need.”
East Longmeadow Lions Club
President Joe Martin said a lot of people need glasses just to do their daily tasks, and that donating gives others the opportunity to use them. He added that seeing people donate is “just a good feeling.”
Martin said “I hope other towns and Lions Clubs do the same because the glasses have to go somewhere.”
The next step for the Lions Club is getting each pair distributed, and those interested
IN THIS EDITION
EAST LONGMEADOW
Council approves Fire Dept. pursuit of staffing grants
The Town Council voted to support an application for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grant.
LONGMEADOW
Page 4
Gillen hired as new Longmeadow Middle School’s first principal Dr. Peter Gillen will be the first Longmeadow Middle School principal.. Page 6
WILBRAHAM Study gives data on mental health struggles, substance use
in making additional donations can contact eastlongmeadowclub@gmail.com.
The Reserve is also planning its next quarterly drive based
around back-to-school supplies.
O’Connell said those looking to get involved or stay up to date on collection drives can call The Reserve at 413-224-2200.
Results from a 2025 Youth Risk Behavioral Study administered to HWRSD students show a large percentage of Wilbraham Middle School students struggling with their mental health. Page 8
From right: East Longmeadow Lions Club Treasurer Bob Adams, The Reserve Resident Engagement Director Jordana O’Connell and Lions Club President Joe Martin stands with the donated eyeglasses. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
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:
Local Farm Tour: Crow River Farm — Saturday June 27, at 10:30 a.m. The owners of Crow River Farm in East Longmeadow have invited patrons of ELPL for a tour of the farm on Porter Road. Come see the workings of a farm and what that entails.
Teen programs:
• “Hamilton” Sing-Along — Thursday, June 25, at 1 p.m. Watch the filmed Broadway hit “Hamilton” on the big screen and sing along to your favorite songs. Pizza, candy, and soda will be provided- just bring your energy and your best Broadway voice! Grades 6-12.
Children’s programs:
• We’re Making History: Kids time capsule event — Satur-
TOWN EVENTS
day, June 20, at 10 a.m.
• Doodle with Crayons — Tuesday, June 23, at 4 p.m., for ages 6 and up.
• Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals — Wednesday, June 24, at 11 a.m. for ages 3-6.
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.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Table Top Tuesday, June 23, 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by to speak to a representative from Blue Cross Blue Shield. They will be available to answer questions related to Medicare.
HISTORICAL MUSEUM
HOURS
The East Longmeadow Historical Museum, located at 87 Maple St. East Longmeadow, will open Saturday, June 20, with free admission. The mueseum boasts an impressive display of artifacts from East Longmeadow’s Redstone mining era from the town’s many quarries along with many treasures such as period furniture and clothing displays, antique quilts and Native American relics. The mueseum welcomes any donated heirlooms for its revered and growing collections. The museum will also be accepting submissions for the 2026-2076 East Longmeadow time capsule, with submissions due by June 27.
HAMPDEN
SENIOR CENTER
HAMPDEN
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. Greeting Cards with Ellie — Monday, June 22, from 1-3 p.m. Cost is $3 per person. All materials are provided. Infinnite Hair by Katie — by appointment Thursday, June 24, from 9 a.m. to noon. Services offered include: Dry (Spritz) Cut — $15; and style — $5; men’s cut — $12. Waxing services available: brow, lip, and “nose detail” — $5 per service. A fast, low-discomfort wax to keep the stray hairs at bay.
• Tailoring with Georgina Hamilton — Friday, June 26, 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 Café: Music with Renee — Friday, June 26, at 10:15 a.m.
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 22, 3:15-4:15 p.m.
Stories and Movement (ages 2 and up) — Tuesday, June 23, 9:30-10 a.m.
Pathways for Parents: Newbies (ages birth to 18 months) — Tuesday, June 23, 10:4511:30 a.m.
STEAM: Farm to Fable — Tuesday, June 23, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
• Pathways for Parents: Grow
Play Learn (ages birth to 5 years) — Wednesday, June 24, 9:30-10:30 am
Energy Detectives — Wednesday, June 24, 3:304:30 p.m.
Vegetable Storytime — Thursday, June 25, 9:30-10 a.m.
• Reading is Magic with Ed the Wizard — Thursday, June 25, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
Book Worms — Friday, June 26, 9:30-10 a.m.
• Pokemon Day — Friday, June 26, 2:30-4:15 p.m.
Adult programs: Celebrating America’s 250th: “Boston, 1776” with author J.D. Dickey — Monday, June 22, 7-8 p.m. VIRTUAL: Play Along Ukulele from Home! — Monday, June 22, 7-8 p.m.
• Tech Tuesdays — Tuesday, June 23, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Library Virtual Speakers: Simple, Sustainable, and Powerfully Delicious Meals with Sana Javeri Kadri and Asha Loupy — Tuesday, June 23, 2-4 p.m.
• Pulsing with Nature this Summer with Judit Torok — Tuesday, June 23, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
• Music Appreciation with Rob Humberston — Wednesday, June 24, 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Lisa Ruch Presents: Literary Reimaginings — Wednesday, June 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• Weekly Writers Group — Thursday, June 25, 9:30-11 a.m.
• Bocce on the Lawn — Thursday, June 25, 11 a.m. to noon.
• Storrs Stitchers (Drop-In) — Friday, June 26, 10-11:30 a.m.
• Dungeons & Dragons — Saturday, June 27, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Relational Literacy Lab: Writing Meaningful Thank You Messages In-Person — Saturday, June 27, 11 a.m. to noon.
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. Unknown Signers of the Declaration of Independence — Monday, June 22, at 6 p.m. • The Battle of Saratoga Tuesday, June 23, at 6 p.m. Western Mass Brass Band Thursday, June 25, at 6 p.m. For the 250th USA Semiquincentennial celebration, the West Mass Brass Band will be performing a patriotic program STEP INTO THE GLOW: A CLASSIC ANDREA BOCELLI OPERA TRIBUTE
On Friday, June 26, from 7-8 p.m. and 9-10 p.m. LUMOS is presenting a tribute concert to some of the world’s greatest composers at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, located at 335 Longmeadow St. Tickets must be purchased in advance at lumos-experiences.com/
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 413-5966141. The library will be closed on Friday, June 19, to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday.
• VIRTUAL: America’s 250th: Boston, 1776 — Monday, June 22, from 7-8 p.m. Pathways for Parents: Story Yoga — Wednesday, June 24, from 10-10:45 a.m. Paint-Your-Own Clay Axolotl! — Thursday, June 25, from 2-2:45 p.m.
• Adult Crafternoon: Beaded Bookmark — Friday, June 26, from 2-3:30 p.m.
• Yoga at the Library — Saturday, June 27, from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
• New Lawns
• Overseeding
• Bobcat Service
• Grading Work
• Patios
Estimates
Celebrating in “01028 in the USA”
Centerfield June 26th – July 3rd
EVT Beer Garden 5-10pm with Bands @ 7pm
Mass Axe Throwing & Food Vendors Each Night
June 26th: 5-7pm Car/Truck Show
+ Just Go With It
June 27th 5-7pm Yard Games
+ Trivia with Rich 7pm Bonfire + Project 267
Bring your Time Capsule Contributions
June 28th 3-7pm Corn Hole Tournament
- Register your team: https://docs.google.com/.../ 1FAIpQLSc5Ab9Eu xQExH.../viewform
*EVT Beer Garden opens 3pm
+ Aquanet @ 7pm
June 29th 5:30-7pm
Veterans Appreciation Dinner
Now That’s 90’s @ 7pm
June 30th Carnival 6-10pm
+ Now That’s 90’s @ 7pm
July 1st Carnival 6-10pm
+Trailer Trash @ 7pm
July 2nd Carnival 6-10pm
+ Black Cadillac
July 3rd Carnival 6-10pm
+ 7Roads @7pm
July 4th Carnival 11am-3pm
+ EVT Beer Tent 12-4
• Retaining Walls
• Sod
• Seeding
• Dethatching
• Aeration
• Mulch
• Shrub Removal
• Shrub Installation
• Trimming
• Weekly Mowing
Rotary Concerts at Mapleshade School 7pm Concessions open at 6pm
• June 24 – Ray of Elvis
• July 3 – Trailer Trash Laser Light Show 9pm
• July 8 – Union Jack
• July 15 – 7Roads
July 18th Time Capsule Event
• July 22 – Brass Attack
• July 29 – The 60’s Experience
• August 5 - Above the Treeline
• August 12 – Pride Falls (Rain date August 19)
Contributions welcome to support our endeavors community-wide, nationally and internationally Email your pledge to celebrateel@gmail.com
Parade July 4th Step Off 10am
St. Michael’s Church (Maple Street closes by 9:30am)
To participate or volunteer: https://eastlongmeadowma.gov/ 521/4th-of-July
2026-2076 Time Capsule Burial
July 18th Evening Time TBD
Last chance to bring your time capsule contributions
June 27th Center Field at BonFire
EAST LONGMEADOW
Town Council approves Fire Department’s pursuit of staffing grants
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — The East Longmeadow Town Council unanimously voted to support the Fire Department’s pursuit to obtain a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grant that helps increase staffing after a “particularly difficult” fiscal year, according to Fire Chief Christopther Beecher.
The grant, which is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, provides financial assistance to help the department’s increase frontline firefighters through hiring firefighters and recruiting and retaining volunteers.
Beecher and Deputy Fire Chief Edward Linehan discussed the department’s current situation and the FEMA grant at the Town Council meeting on June 9.
Beecher said that the department has hit unique staffing situations over the past year and a half
after it changed its minimum shift staffing from five to six in October 2024. He said the change was manageable and made sense for safety and service to the town.
The department is currently down about 23%, or six members, with only two projected to return by the end of summer.
The grant would increase staffing and minimize cost over a three-year period if the department is approved by FEMA. The first two years pick up 75% of base pay and benefits, while the third year picks up 65%. The town would be responsible for pay and benefits from the fourth year and on.
“What we encountered shortly after was kind of a string of anything from injured on duties to longterm illnesses, things like that,” Beecher said. “It kind of put a strain on the ability to maintain a six person minimum, but we kept doing it. I carried it over fiscal year 2026, I didn’t want to go below that six person minimum.”
Beecher added that the overtime budget is taking a hit from at least two shifts being backfilled everyday, which is filling a position for an absent employee.
The department is also forced to call in staff on their days off when it can’t find volunteers, which happened 34 times in April, 52
times in May and 18 times in June so far.
“It’s incredibly taxing on our people,” Beecher said. “We’re literally forcing them in and now they’re getting to the point where they have to call in sick because they’ve worked so much that they’re coming into a point where it affects their health. We’re just at a point now where a six person minimum with a seven person maximum is not sustainable.”
Beecher said the department hopes to add four members through the grant, which brings
Monson Savings names East Longmeadow assistant branch manager
MONSON — Monson Savings Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Meghan J. Caputo to assistant branch manager of its East Longmeadow branch.
“Meghan’s dedication to our customers, her strong work ethic, and her commitment to the East Longmeadow community make her a valuable member of our team,” said Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “We are proud to recognize her contributions with this well-deserved promotion.”
In her new role, Caputo will support the branch manager in overseeing the daily operations of
the branch, while continuing to deliver exceptional customer service. Her responsibilities include assisting customers with banking needs such as IRAs and home equity lines of credit, supporting staff development, and ensuring adherence to regulatory compliance standards.
Caputo earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Bay Path University, where she developed strong analytical, communication and problem-solving skills that support her work in banking. Her educational background provides a solid foundation for navigating complex customer needs, ensuring regulatory compli-
ance, and contributing to the overall success of branch operations.
Prior to joining the Bank, she spent eight years with Big Y Foods, where she held a supervisory role and was responsible for front-end operations, cash handling, scheduling, and payroll processing. Caputo has now been with Monson Savings Bank for four years, bringing valuable experience and a strong commitment to customer service and operational excellence.
An active member of the local community, Caputo enjoys participating in events such as East Longmeadow National Night Out and the Rotary Summer Concert
Series. Her connection to the area and dedication to community involvement align closely with the bank’s mission of supporting the region it serves.
Caputo shared that she was initially drawn to Monson Savings Bank because of its strong community presence and values as a local, community-focused institution. She looks forward to continuing to grow in her role while deepening her involvement in the East Longmeadow community.
“I am truly excited to continue growing with Monson Savings Bank and to take on this new role as part of the East Longmeadow
team,” said Caputo. “Building strong relationships with our customers and helping them reach their financial goals is incredibly rewarding. I look forward to further supporting our customers and becoming even more involved in the East Longmeadow community while delivering the high level of service our customers expect.”
To contact Caputo, NMLS # 2792657, for your banking needs, please call her at 413-893-0196 or email her at mcaputo@monsonsavings.com.
To learn more about Monson Savings Bank and its team, visit monsonsavings.bank.
East Longmeadow Fire Chief Christopher Beecher and Deputy Fire Chief Edward Linehan meet with the Town Council at its meeting on June 9.
Photo
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Hampden
District Attorney Anthony Gulluni and his office are helping to ensure the expansion of community-based programs in Hampden County after distributing $119,700 to 32 nonprofit organizations, the largest award amount and number of recipients in program history.
Gulluni hosted the 2026 Forfeiture Community Support Program at the Springfield Boys and Girls Club on June 11, where he detailed each organization with praise and distributed checks to each of the nonprofit’s representatives.
The Forfeiture Community Support Program takes assets forfeited through drug-related investigations and redirects them to “support a wide range of initiatives focused on youth development, public safety, education, health and victim services.”
“These funds come from a state law that allows money seized in drug cases to be forfeited through the courts and redirected back into our community, only after due process,” Gulluni said. “Instead of benefiting those who profit from addiction and
crime, these resources can now be reinvested into programs that support young people, families, extend opportunities and improve public safety.”
The program received 54 applications this year, the highest application total in program history, and Gulluni stated that his office “works carefully to maximize the impact of these dollars and support as many worthwhile projects and organizations as possible.”
“I want to extend my deepest thanks to each of these organizations’ tireless work they do each and every day,” Gulluni said. “These grants represent more than financial support, they represent partnerships between community organizations, residents, law enforcement and my office, working together to address challenges before they become crisis … each of these organizations is helping to make Hampden County a stronger and safer place to live. Thank you for all your dedication, compassion, commitment and all that you do to serve others.”
The first organization Gulluni recognized was Springfield’s African Diaspora Mental Health Association, represented by Administrative Director Garry Por-
ter. Gulluni said the organization works to expand access to responsive mental health resources and support services, with this funding going towards alcohol programming and educational resources.
Gulluni said the organization is a critical partner in work at the courthouse, and that it works with young people who have committed serious crimes and are in the process of turning their lives around. He added that mental health is a serious issue for young people, and that organizations’ work is indispensable.
Another one of the recognized organizations was Springfield’s Central City Gym, established in 2015 by Springfield Police Officer Dean Fay. Gulluni said the gym is a “frequent flier for good reason” with the program.
“They do tremendous things for young people, doing the hard work of consistent mentorship and really teaching life skills,” Gulluni said. “Central City Gym uses boxing and fitness to teach discipline, perseverance and healthy habits to young people … this does not tell the whole picture. If anybody’s been to Central City, you’ve seen the incredible facility, as I have. Dozens and dozens, if not hundreds,
of young people engaging in healthy habits.”
He added that Fay is taking young people “who would be doing all the wrong stuff and giving them the capacity to do the right stuff.”
The Embodied Leadership Project received funds, which is a trauma informed organization providing mindfulness, creative arts and equine-assisted learning programming to community members. The funds will go toward musical instruments for programming.
“Obviously, the arts and music are so important for our young people,” Gulluni said. “Exposing them at a young age maybe gives them something they can pursue their entire lives and change their lives for the better. So, so proud to support you.”
Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni kicks off the 2026 Forfeiture Community Support Program.
Reminder Publishing photo by Peter Tuohy
Gillen hired as new Longmeadow Middle School’s first principal
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — Longmeadow will see a brand new middle school join the town within the next few years, and along with it comes a brand new principal from just across the Connecticut River.
Longmeadow Public Schools
Superintendent Marty O’Shea announced that Dr. Peter Gillen, current principal of West Springfield Middle School, has been hired to take on the task of being Longmeadow Middle School’s first principal.
“Peter Gillen was chosen from a highly qualified applicant pool based on his collaborative, student-centered approach to leadership and his deep experience with middle school programming, scheduling, operations
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — June marks the beginning of construction preparation for the new unified Longmeadow Middle School, a job that is expected to wrap up by fall 2028.
The $151 million project brings together the populations of Glenbrook and Williams Middle Schools, coming to around 665 students in grades 6-8. Glenbrook and Williams students will remain in their respective schools until construction on the new school is complete.
The Massachusetts School Building Authority will reimburse the town around $54.8 million, with Longmeadow taxpayers covering the remaining $96.8 million. Voters supported the debt exclusion with a 2,1301,360 vote in September 2025.
The town released a middle school construction look ahead
and behaviors,” O’Shea said in a press release.
The new school brings together the Glenbrook and Williams Middle School populations, with a start date for Gillen on July 16.
Gillen has bachelors degrees in English and secondary education, along with a master of education in education administration from Springfield College. He also received a doctorate of education from William H. Taft University.
He began his career in education in 2004 as a sixth-grade teacher at Springfield’s Forest Park Middle School. He spent one year there before bringing his teaching skills over to West Springfield High School in 2005 as a ninth-grade English teacher and head coach of the cross country and track and field teams.
Gillen then became assistant
document on June 5 that will provide updates of the construction as it happens. This document also provided the construction phasing overview from Fontaine Bros., the construction company working on the project, which details what each construction phase will look like through October.
The enabling phase workdays will run from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday with Saturdays anticipated. Some days also will go until 6 p.m. depending on the schedule.
Early enabling phase work began at the end of May, with the first few weeks primarily preparatory to ensure safe setup around the existing school and efficiency before the larger-scale construction begins in the fall.
The enabling schedule is also planned to complete key access, sidewalk, traffic and temporary circulation improvements before the 2026-2027 school year. The
principal at the middle school in 2009, spending six years in that role until he became principal in 2015. He said he thinks his experience will prove helpful when he starts in Longmeadow.
“Longmeadow is appropriately known for high expectations, supportive parents and a warm and welcoming community,” Gillen said. “I found that to be the experience in West Springfield as well. I think managing the largest middle school this side of [Interstate 495], with just under 1,000 students, translates very well into helping Longmeadow as they build a bigger school.”
He said he hopes to provide broad and engaging opportunities for the students, and that students see the school as a “warm, welcoming, inviting and positive environment where they can ex-
remaining project site utility and demolition work will continue into September and October.
“June work will include site clearing and preparation, including protection of existing trees, removal of existing fencing, stripping and grubbing of topsoil, tree clearing and stump removal,” Fontaine said in its phasing plan.
“Phase 1A” is already in motion and will continue until Aug. 22, with work including mobilization, initial site utility relocations, new driveway construction and off-site Williams Street improvements — road widening, drainage work, fencing adjustments, landscaping and line painting.
The first equipment deliveries and work began on June 8, which included fencing to separate construction areas from public school areas, miscellaneous site demolition, tree removals and police detail for all road work.
Fontaine also said that off-
plore their different interests, learn their talents and have any opportunity that they like available to them when they leave as eighth graders.”
Gillen said his excitement to join Longmeadow is twofold and that he was drawn to the town because of its great reputation and the opportunity to take part in building a school from the ground up.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to build an incredible program in an incredible school for the community,” Gillen said. “I’m excited to take the two wonderful cultures and experiences that Williams and Glenbrook have and build them into a new Longmeadow Middle School of which the community can be incredibly
site sidewalk improvements are a “major early-summer activity,” which includes tree protection, excavation, grading and preparation for new pedestrian improvements.
Construction crews have al-
dard safety step before excavation or site disturbance begins
ready marked out existing underground utilities as well, which the town’s release states is a “stan-
Dr. Peter Gillen has been with West Springfield Public Schools since 2005 and will start his new position in Longmeadow on July 16. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
A rendering of the new Longmeadow Middle School, which is scheduled to open in 2028.
Photo credit: Longmeadow Public Schools
Rally calls on Baystate to support Massachusetts Medicare for All
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — A small group of people, led by Nadia Milleron, a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, stood outside Baystate Health’s administrative offices in Springfield, urging the company to support single-payer universal health care in Massachusetts.
The group hoisted signs reading, “You die when insurance decides,” “Let doctors decide, not insurance companies” and “Health care workers save lives. Insurance companies do not.”
Several vehicles honked their horns or called out cheers of support as they drove by.
Milleron said Baystate
Health’s lobbyists, including former state Sen. Michael Knapik, are pushing to stop a pair of bills in the Legislature that would establish single-payer universal health care. Milleron said that because Baystate Health owns the insurance company Health New England, it has a vested interest in keeping the state from adopting the health care system.
The bills that would institute “Medicare for all” are stalled in the Legislature, Milleron said. State Senate bill S.860 and its companion bill in the state House of Representatives, H.1405, assert that Massachusetts residents have a right to equitable access to “comprehensive” health care “without co-insurance, co-payments, deductibles, or any oth-
er form of patient cost sharing.”
A health care tax on employers, workers and residents would replace the insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses people currently pay, and a dedicated trust set up by the state would pay health care providers.
The House and Senate bills were introduced in February 2025 and referred to their respective health care financing committees. After a joint hearing in June 2025, the state House has twice extended the deadline to hear about the bill, while the state Senate ordered a study in January of this year. The Legislature’s session will officially end on Jan. 5, 2027, but historically, not much legislation has been passed in the last six months of the session.
Activists protest proposed Eversource gas pipeline in Springfield
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — A few dozen people, armed with signs, props and theatrics, met at the Eversource location on Cadwell Drive in Springfield. The group was there to bring attention to the ongoing battle over Eversource’s efforts to install a new gas pipeline through the city, which has consistently ranked among the country’s worst for air quality.
Activists in Springfield have been fighting against the pipeline since it was first proposed by Columbia Gas in 2017. After a Columbia Gas explosion in the Merrimack Valley in 2018, Eversource purchased the gas infrastructure that runs through Springfield. In 2021, the company resurrected the old Columbia Gas plan when it proposed the Western Massachusetts Gas Reliability Project.
Eversource has argued that the pipeline is not an effort to add more gas customers. Instead, it said the pipeline would function as a redundancy if something were to happen to the existing pipeline that runs under Memorial Bridge to the Bliss Street station. The line serves 52,000 metered customers in the lower Pioneer Valley. The redundancy line pipeline would run from a metering station in Longmeadow, near an existing Tennessee Gas pipeline, through the town and north to the Bliss Street metering station.
Residents have consistently pushed back against the pipeline several concerns. Springfield residents, who experienced a natural gas explosion of their own in 2012, are concerned about the safety of high-pressure gas lines. They also cite the impact of fossil fuels on the environment and the $85 million pricetag, which will be borne by ratepayers.
“The reason I came out, I was told by Eversource, there are more
Construction
Continued from page 6
and helps identify the location of buried gas, water, electric, drainage and communication lines.”
A temporary drop-off loop will begin in late June and the existing school modular building will be demolished by the end of summer once vacated.
“Phase 1B” is anticipated for Aug. 24 to Sept. 30, where the new driveway and temporary sidewalks will be finished. Utility relocations and demolitions will also continue. “Phase 1C” is set for Oct 1-30, which closes access to Woolworth Street from Williams Street and completes the final utility relocations at the existing parking lot.
Early fall will see storm drain installation, new waterline work, electric conduits, the underground fuel storage tank removal and the demolition of underground utilities, such as drainage, water and gas. The town’s construction update document and Fontaine’s full enabling plan can be found at longmeadow.k12. ma.us/school-committee/middle-school-building-project.
than 1,000 gas leaks in Springfield. Before we even talk about new construction, let’s fix the gas leaks,” said Charlie Holmes. He explained that his house was shaken by the 2012 gas explosion and said that, unlike that gas line, the proposed line will be under high pressure.
“Springfield is the City of Firsts,” Holmes said, using one of Springfield’s monikers. “We should be the first with clean energy.” Holmes said he is not against Eversource as a company, but added, “I want them to do the right thing by Springfield.”
Teniel Rhiney is an organizer with Arise for Social Justice. She said Eversource has been in “a holding pattern” since the state rejected Eversource’s Environmental Impact Statement in 2023. The company was told it would need to do more outreach to justify the project. In 2025, Eversource hosted a listening session for Springfield and Longmeadow residents.
The protest was one of three hosted throughout the state in conjunction with the group Mass Power Forward. Rhiney said the purpose of the action was to keep the pipeline in the public’s mind, “But also to tell legislators they can do things to help.” There are several bills making their way through the Legislature that would affect the pipeline issue. Senate bill S.2291 would prevent companies from passing the cost of pipeline projects onto ratepayers, while S. 2290 would establish a moratorium on new gas system expansion.
Naia Tenerowicz called out state Sens. Adam Gomez and Jo Comerford, and state Reps.
Orlando Ramos and Bud Williams for the work they have done on this issue. However, she said Eversource and other utility companies are paying many legislators through donations to ignore the needs of Massachusetts residents.
“People’s energy bills are sky high,” Rhiney said. Meanwhile, “Eversource has continued to say, ‘No matter what you think or feel, we are going to continue to do this.’” She said that showed a “blatant disregard for the people of Springfield.”
Eversource provided the following comment in response to concerns about the project, “Addressing affordability while also maintaining safe, reliable service and achieving the commonwealth’s decarbonization and electrification goals is an incredibly delicate balancing act. We keep affordability and reliability front of mind in everything we do to ensure that customers have access to the essential services they depend on every day — including meeting their heating needs during the winter, which is not optional in New England,” the statement read.
In the statement, Eversouce also said the project will support
existing customers in the area.
“The Western Massachusetts Gas Reliability Project was proposed to address reliability constraints in the region, strengthen the existing natural gas system serving approximately 53,000 customer service connections in the Greater Springfield area, representing roughly 180,000 residents, and help protect against service interruptions during periods of peak winter demand.
The project is intended to improve system resiliency, reduce the risk of outages resulting from maintenance or an unexpected disruption, and help ensure customers continue to have heating service when they need it most. This is strictly a reliability project to meet the essential needs of existing customers, and no new customers would be served as a result of the project,” the statement read.
photo by Sarah Heinonen
A handful of protesters, including congressional candidate Nadia Milleron, hold signs outside single-payer universal health care outside Baystate
HAMPDEN/WILBRAHAM
Study gives data on mental health struggles, substance use
By Peter Tuohy ptuohy@thereminder.com
WILBRAHAM — Results from a 2025 Youth Risk Behavioral Study administered to Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District students show a staggering percentage of Wilbraham Middle School students struggling with their mental health.
The Youth Risk Behavioral Study focuses on the major risk behaviors that threaten the health and safety of young people, such as mental health and substance use with alcohol, nicotine or cannabis.
Brianna Berneche, coalition director for the Hampden-Wilbraham Partners for Youth Coalition, joined the HWRSD School Committee meeting to present the survey’s findings on June 11.
Seventh- and eighth-grade students at the middle school were administered the survey in April 2025. All students who were present at school on that day received the survey, which came out to 356 represented students, or 86%.
The survey showed that a large number of middle school students last year were in a struggle with their mental health, with 45% of students reporting that “at some point during the past year, nothing was fun for them and they weren’t interested in anything.”
Twenty-three percent of students reported that in the past year, they felt “so sad or hopeless every day for two weeks or more in a row that they stopped doing some usual activities.”
Berneche said, “This is show-
ing us that the middle school may need some extra support in terms of mental health services.”
The study did show that depressive symptoms in students peaked during the pandemic at 38% and again in 2023 at 39%, but have been on a decline in the past two years and currently stand at 23%.
Only 1.5% of middle school students reported using a vape in the past 30 days, with cigarette use even lower at 0.6%. Only three students had reported vaping on school property within the past 30 days as well.
Only 13 students reported having ever vaped, with the majority using a friend’s and giving it back. The majority reported that the reason is because “they wanted to know how it would feel,” along with helping anxiety and to go along with others.
Alcohol use increased slightly from the 1.7% in 2024 to 2.1% in 2025, but is a decline from 6% in 2019. Cannabis use is at 0.9% from 2.4% in 2019, with not-prescribed prescription drug use at 1.9%.
Berneche said 1.9% is low, but it isn’t 0%, and that the coalition would love to see it be closer to or at 0%.
About half of the students also reported that they have spoken with a parent or guardian in the past year about the risks of vaping, drinking and tobacco use.
“We encourage these parents to really talk to their students about the risks of these,” Berneche said. “If they can’t, or they
need communication tips, the coalition can provide that for them.”
School Committee member Sean Kennedy brought up a concern about the middle school student use of ZYN nicotine pouches and it not being shown in the survey results, stating that “they’re not vaping anymore, but they got something new that they’re doing.”
“I’m feeling that we’re missing the boat on this,” Kennedy said.
A random sample of high school students enrolled in a semester-long health and physical education class were surveyed. The responses represent 422 students, or 43% of high school students.
The survey showed that the rates of depression and self-harm have continued to decrease since peaking during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 9% of students reporting that they have hurt themselves on purpose and 7% of students reporting that they have considered death by suicide.
Twenty-four percent of the surveyed students reported that they feel sad and hopeless, with 79% of students who needed counseling in the past year reporting that they were able to access it. Seventy-one percent reported that they know how to connect to help if they are concerned about their own or another’s feelings.
The “past 30-day use” of vaping products dropped from 32% in 2019 to just 5% in 2025, with the majority of responses stating that they borrow devices from a friend. Cigarette use has stayed
consistently between 1-2% since 2019.
Past 30-day alcohol and cannabis use have also been on the decline since the pandemic. Alcohol use went from 18% in 2019 to 9% in 2025, only seeing an uptick between 2023 at 9% and 2024 at 12%. Cannabis use stayed steady at 12-13% from 2019-2021, but has since gone down to 5%.
Only 1% of students reported the use of prescription drugs not prescribed to them in the past 30 days, and 0.8% reported using any type of illegal drug other than cannabis, nicotine or alcohol in their lifetime.
Most of the high school students reported speaking with a parent or guardian in the past year about substance abuse.
Berneche also shared that the coalition’s federal grant funding will end on Sept. 30, and that it is at risk of shutting down. With the loss of the coalition, these surveys and this data would be lost as well.
“We are applying for what is called a ‘no cost extension,’ which means whatever funds you’ve accumulated over the years and carry forward, you can use for, sort of, an ‘extra bonus year,’” Berneche said. “However, when we were meeting with our grant program officer, they were not positive about the likelihood of that being approved due to the current administration, budget cuts, etc.”
More information on the coalition can be found at hwp4y.org.
Catherine Dickson to receive Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship
BOSTON — State Rep. Angelo J. Puppolo, Jr. is pleased to announce that Catherine Dickson, a junior at Minnechaug Regional High School, has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarship.
Named in honor of former Massachusetts Gov. Christian A. Herter, the Herter Scholarship is an early identification program that provides need-based scholarships to 25 outstanding high school sophomores and juniors each year to attend the college of their choice within the continental United States.
Recipients of this highly competitive scholarship are recognized not only for their academic achievement and leadership potential, but also for overcoming significant challenges and adversity. Dickson’s determination, resilience and commitment to ex-
cellence exemplify the qualities the scholarship seeks to honor.
During her time at Minnechaug Regional High School, Dickson has distinguished herself as an exceptional student and leader. She has earned Distinguished Honor Roll recognition and membership in the National Honor Society. Beyond the classroom, she is actively involved in student council, the Falcon Leadership Advisory Board, class council, and the MIAA Student Ambassador Program.
“Catherine is the perfect example of resilience,” said Puppolo. “She has overcome a great deal and continues to be a high-achieving and contributing member of her school and community. Her dedication, leadership, and perseverance make her truly deserving of this recognition. I am honored to present her
with an official House of Representatives citation in recognition of all her hard work and accomplishments.”
Dickson is also passionate about advancing women’s health and helped co-found her school’s Women’s Health Advocacy Club. In addition, she is an accomplished student-athlete who has earned multiple athletic honors. She currently holds a school record as part of the 4x800-meter relay team and placed 37th at the New Balance Freshman Nationals.
Puppolo is proud to recognize Dickson’s achievements and looks forward to following her continued success. Upon graduating from Minnechaug Regional High School, she plans to pursue a degree in biology or chemistry and hopes to become an OB-GYN or endocrinologist.
Christian A. Herter Scholarship Award
Recipient, Catherine Dickson, pictured holding an official Massachusetts House of Representatives Citation.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
A slide showcasing how students responded to a mental health question on the Youth Risk Behavioral Study. Photo credit: Hampden-Wilbraham Partners for Youth Coalition
Town Council
Continued from page 4
the shift maximum to eight members and reduces the backfill issue and the amount of EMS callbacks.
“For the well-being of our people, the deputy and I certainly feel this is necessary,” Beecher said. “Our call volume doesn’t sustain the amount of people that we have right now. Our ambulances are out of the building at the same time constantly, it leaves two members back in the station … the constant backfilling, the overtime, it’s taking a toll on all of our folks.”
Councilor Marilyn Richards asked Beecher what his expectation with four additional members would be. He said recruiting wouldn’t take place until the grant is released in September, and added that his goal would be to get people in at the start of November.
“The SAFER Grant is our long term plan, that’s how we’re trying to get our staffing increased consistently,” Beecher said. “With the amount of injuries that we have now, we need to fix that short-term gap between now and November.”
A potential solution for that short-term gap would be per diem paramedics, who would be called when the department can’t find staff through volunteers instead of calling in staff on days off. Beecher said this also creates a pool of paramedics that could potentially be hired full-time if the department gets the grant.
Councilor Jim Leydon asked Town Manager Tom Christensen if this was sustainable, and Christensen confirmed it was.
Nonprofits
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Kane’s Krusade was recognized, which provides animal care for veterans, domestic violence survivors, those experiencing homelessness and other individuals in recovery. Gulluni said the funds will be going toward housing assistance to those who would “otherwise face barriers in keeping their pets.”
The other 28 organizations that received funds were Big Brothers Big Sisters, Center Community Center, Collectively Recognizing Empowerment Within, Criminal Justice Organization of Hampden County/Springfield Safe Neighborhood Initiative, Darrell Lee Jenkins Jr. Resource Center, East Springfield Neighborhood Council, Friends of Libertas Academy Charter School, Gray House, Greater Holyoke YMCA, Hope for Youth and Families, Mason Square C3, Mission, Inc., Women of Color Health Equity Collective, Neighborhood Generals Youth Football and Cheer, Paper City Basketball Club, Paper City Futbol, Parent Villages, Performance Project, ReGreen Springfield, Salvation Army, Springfield Boys and Girls Club, Springfield Cultural Partnership, Springfield Rescue Mission, Springfield Together, Strong Youth Minds Youth Development, Westfield Police Cadets, YMCA of Greater Springfield and YWCA of Western Massachusetts.
“When you look at what’s going to come off the payroll and overtime and you look at what this is going to do for the department, not only the people but the budget on a four-year scale, we probably won’t even notice,” Christensen said. “Sort of akin to the electric bill at the high school, we’re going to phase that in and by the time we get there, you’re not going to notice the blip because we’ve gotten there slowly. This is almost the same exact arc and I think it’s only going to make it all better.”
Councilor Ralph Page said he knows stress is extreme for firefighters and that taking a little bit of the workload off is worth pursuing the grant. He said four employees is a “good chunk of money,” but that it can be sustainable and something to invest in.
Councilor Anna Jones asked if there was a plan in case the grant is denied and Beecher said the per diem program could hopefully “plug that hole,” and three firefighters will hopefully be returning in the fall.
Christensen noted that if the grant were denied, adding one position each year for the next four years will bring the same budget number. The grant just brings the four positions at a quicker pace.
The Town Council voted unanimously to approve the Fire Department’s grant application, which is due for submission to FEMA by June 22.
LIONS CLUB PRESENTS DIAMOND MELVIN JONES FELLOWSHIP
— 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 the 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
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — It was a sunny, idyllic summer day in Springfield when U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, Mayor Domenic Sarno and state Rep. Bud Williams joined residents to cut the ribbon on the renovated Magazine Park.
Sarno described Magazine Park as being a refuge in the center of Springfield. The park is a few blocks from Springfield Technical Community College. Sarno often describes the city’s parks as “my Riviera growing up.” He recalled coming to Magazine Park when he was a student at the nearby High School of Commerce.
“I don’t think there’s an inch of the parks system I didn’t play in,” said Neal. The one-time Springfield mayor said the parks look “terrific.” He recalled the history of the McKnight neighborhood, where he said titans of Springfield’s industrial past lived. McKnight Neighborhood Council President Walter Kroll explained that the McKnight Brothers were intentional about creating parks while they were developing the area.
The renovations to the park
provide more than new benches and a playground. Kroll said families were not safe in the park. While the neighborhood council had originally asked for minor upgrades, he said the Parks Department devoted effort and money to creating a new, safe space for McKnight’s families.
Williams said parks are “an escape for a lot of young people” and the money put into them are “an investment in people.” Of the several parks in Williams’ district, he said, “This one stands out. I’ve been fighting for 10 years for this park,” He added, “Magazine is in our heart.”
Thomas Ashe, executive director of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management, said the park was a “total gut.” The renovations include a new accessible playground, a baseball field, two basketball courts, a spray pad, a paved walking path, a pavilion with picnic tables and park benches. A fence around the park and lighting make for a safer experience.
The project’s total cost was $2.3 million. One million dollars of that funding came in the form of a federal Department of the Interior Land and Water Conser-
vation Fund grant, secured with Neal’s help. Ashe thanked Neal for “pitching in in a big way.”
Springfield’s Community Preservation Committee awarded the project a $235,000 grant and the city filled the gap of $800,000. Ashe said Sarno has made
neighborhood park renovation a major initiative of his administration, overseeing upgrades and renovations worth an estimated $120 million. “If you [had] a park in your neighborhood,” while growing up, he said, “you still have it in your heart. We
make sure every family has a place they can go.” He said parks are where children create memories. “That’s why we do what we do,” he said.
“This was years in the mak-
SPRINGFIELD — On June 6, the annual Springfield Pride Parade took the streets once again. Community members along with organizations celebrated the annual parade, which marched from Springfield Technical Community College to Stearns Square and Tower Square Park. Top row, from left: Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno; state Sen. Jake Oliveira; Ward 2 City Councilor Mike Fenton; and Executive Director of Parks, Buildings, and Recreation Management Tom Ashe gather at Springfield Technical Community College for the fifth annual Springfield Pride Parade. The fifth annual Springfield Pride Parade starts from Springfield Technical Community College to Stearns Square and Tower Square Park in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield marchers have fun at Springfield Technical Community College prior to the fifth annual Springfield Pride Parade. Bottom row, from left: Ben Bland and Cody Lyons at Springfield Technical Community College for the fifth annual Springfield Pride Parade. Six-year-old Josephine has fun with her bubble gun at Springfield Technical Community College. Educators of the Massachusetts Teachers Association marchers gather at Springfield Technical Community College for the Springfield Pride Parade.
Photo credit: Leon Nguyen
Mayor Domenic Sarno uses the swing set at the new playground at Magazine Park. Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
ing,” said Sean Johnson of the McKnight Neighborhood Council. Prior to the renovation, Johnson said the park playground was undersized for the number of children in the neighborhood. He said there are several day cares in the homes surrounding the park. Johnson said, “This is the beginning of the heart of downtown. It’s the easiest spot to stop without going to Six Flags,” he said, referring to the amusement park in Agawam.
Johnson used to bring his daughter to the park to clean it up. Commenting on keeping the park clean, he said, “If you give people trash cans, they’ll use them.” Mike Davis oversees maintenance of Magazine Park and several others. His crew consists of three residents from the Hampden Department of Corrections.
Gillen
Continued from page 6
proud. That’s the first piece.”
He said the second piece of his excitement is the people, stating that “the community has been filled with so many kind and supportive folks.”
“I’m really excited to build those relationships and make those connections,” Gillen said. “It just seems like a natural fit in a really great partnership.”
He also has some parting words for his West Springfield community, adding that it has been a “wonderful, wonderful place” and that he would not have looked to leave unless the opportunity was special, and this one is.
“I would say to parents and the School Committee, administration, staff, teachers, the entire community of West Springfield, it has just been a joy to work with them,” Gillen said. “My experience in West Springfield has been so pos-
He said the crew visits each park daily to monitor the grounds, examine the equipment and address any issues. But Davis said he relies on the park “regulars” to let him know about any concerns they may have.
Tyrell Springer brought his toddler, Shai Springer, to the park. He said the improvements were welcome, adding, “It brightens up the neighborhood.”
Another parent, Danoris Rivera, was walking by the park with her young daughter, Mila Lopez Rivera, when she saw the reopening. “This is nice,” Rivera said, looking around. Her daughter got to help cut the grand reopening ribbon.
After the dignitaries and members of the community spoke, Sarno tried out the swing set. “I haven’t done this since Forest Park,” Sarno said, recalling years gone by. He jokingly asked if he should try to swing over the set’s top bar.
itive since the beginning. I leave that wonderful town with love and my heart and appreciation for 22 fantastic years. I’m really going to miss that community and those wonderful folks.”
Some of Gillen’s colleagues also had a few messages for him as well from the West Springfield School Committee meeting on June 9. West Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Stefania Raschilla said Gillen will be missed by the students, staff and families, and School Committee member Colleen Marcus said “he certainly has made a lasting impression on students, families and staff members.
“He will be missed and I wish him the very best of luck in his new position,” Marcus said.
The school is estimated to have a fall 2028 move in, and Gillen will build the schedule, craft the course of study and curriculum, support the building’s programmatic merges and serve on the Middle School Building Committee until then.
GRAND OPENING — HotWorx, a 24/7 fitness studio featuring 30-minute isometric and 15-minute high intensity interval workouts in infrared saunas, hosted a grand opening at its 296 Cooley St. location on June 6. Studio owners Vassu Kaisetty, center left, and Teja Mitapalli, center right, cut the ribbon to officially open the location while surrounded by family, friends and Hotworks staff. The facility has nine workout saunas and a functional training area with weights, ropes and other equipment, offering clients the opportunity for a well-rounded workout in one location.
Reminder Publishing photo by Debbie Gardner
DINING ENTERTAINMENT
Thunder in the Valley returns with fireworks, music festival
By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com
EASTHAMPTON — In celebration of the Fourth of July and the 250th anniversary of America, the Thunder in the Valley concert and fireworks festival returns to Easthampton to provide the community with its biggest celebration yet.
The concert and fireworks event will take place on Saturday, June 27, at Molitoris Orchard on 95 Park Hill Road in Easthampton. The festivities celebrate the Fourth of July holiday and raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital at Baystate Children’s Hospital.
Advance tickets cost $20, while tickets purchased at the gate will cost $25. Children ages 6-15 can get tickets for $10, and children 5 and under get in for free. For tickets and more information on this year’s event, visit thunderinthevalleyma.com.
The festival is organized by nonprofit organization Unbroken Wings, whose work is committed to supporting children who have experienced physical or emotional trauma by providing comprehensive programs that nurture the mind, body and spirit of children recovering from trauma. The annual fireworks celebration has been a consistent supporter of the
By Sam Drysdale State House News Service
BOSTON — Fresh off signing a law to let cities and towns across the state extend last call for two months this summer, Gov. Maura Healey threw her support behind another liquor law expansion on June 9.
Healey said on WEEI 93.7 FM that she “personally” supports happy hour — which allows for specifically discounted alcohol prices, but is illegal in Massachusetts.
Since 1984, the state has maintained a ban on special or reduced-price alcohol drink promotions to curb binge drinking and alcohol-related driving incidents and crashes. But the state also has a reputation for a lacking nightlife scene, especially for young people.
Healey has made attracting and retaining young professionals a priority of her administration. While this group has been leaving Massachusetts at higher rates than other populations, the reasons extend beyond the state’s social scene and include factors such as high prices for a shallow pool of available housing.
But on the morning of June 9, the governor made it clear she is interested in doing more to create “vibrancy,” which she says is good for both residents and small businesses.
“I personally support happy hour. That said, it’s, again, it’s a local option,” Healey said. “But for me, it’s especially, I really want 20-somethings, 18- to 35-yearolds staying in Boston, staying in Massachusetts. And it’s really important that we create spaces for them to hang out and socialize.”
She noted that happy hour is just “one thing” and “there are different things you can do to create that. But I want to build a better vibe for young people here in the state, and young people who want to come here to stay here, hopefully.”
Healey signed a law on June 8 at 5:32 p.m. to allow bars to extend last call an hour past their license limit, until 3 a.m. at the latest, and allow for public alcohol consumption “districts” through July 31. Both require individual municipalities to opt in before the measures take effect.
Children’s Miracle Network Hospital at Baystate Children’s Hospital over the last five years.
Unbroken Wings Board Director Mike Perrier told Reminder Publishing that the event has become a beloved community celebration for the Fourth each year, and the jam-packed day is filled with great vibes, great music and is capped off with a great fireworks show.
“It’s definitely the fireworks, people love fireworks, that’s the big draw, but we try to make it so much more, and each year we’ve gotten bigger and bigger artists to come in who don’t usually play this area,” said Perrier. “We just have a great community around us, granted, a lot of people come from outside this area to see the show. I would say this is more like an old-fashioned festival. It has that feel to it. People are all friendly, they take care of the grounds, they don’t trash nothing, it’s all respectful people. It’s cool and has a great atmosphere.”
The festival and music kick off at noon, and concerts run all through the afternoon and night. The celebration eventually culminates in the fireworks show.
Before the festival kicks off, the Children’s Miracle Kruze, which starts at Metro Jeep in Chicopee, will lead Jeep-driving attendees to Molitoris Orchard right in time
She endorsed the bill as it was moving through the Legislature, and signed it about two hours after landed on her desk on June 8.
Lawmakers pitched the bill as a way to make the most of an influx of international visitors this summer for the World Cup held in Foxborough, creating an opportunity for local businesses from increased foot traffic and more spending on later nights.
On WEEI the morning after
for the start of the festivities. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and the Jeep rides begin by noon. Tickets for the ride will cost $20 per person and include admission to the Thunder in the Valley. According to Perrier, they can be purchased on the event’s website.
“It’s all Jeep people who love their Jeeps. We have the Sheriff’s Department that comes and helps us, and it’s a nonstop right through lights and intersections from Metro in Chicopee all the way to Thunder in the Valley,” Perrier added.
Starting things off on the event grounds at noon is Change-Up, which performs pop, rock and dance music. At 2:30 p.m. Traveler, a Chris Stapleton tribute group, alongside Bluebird, a Miranda Lambert tribute singer, will perform together on stage, followed by Shania Twin, a Shania Twain tribute band at 5:30 p.m.
Closing the night of performances will be Bruce in the U.S.A., the world’s No. 1 Bruce Springsteen tribute band. Perrier said the musical acts have evolved over the years, and organizers are always looking to give audience members a great bang for their buck.
“We wanted to make sure people are getting more than their money’s worth. Each of these artists, if you go to see elsewhere,
the signing, host Greg Hill asked the governor if the two-month authorization could serve as a pilot program for the state to consider the later last call permanently in the future.
“Yeah, I think it could be,” Healey replied. “We’re going to do this through the end of July, and we’ll see how it goes. I think allowing people more forms of entertainment after hours — we’ve expanded the T’s hours, right?
they’re like $65 a ticket to go see each one separately, so we’re trying to keep it at one price level as cheap as we can and still be able to pay for everything, and still have those donations,” he added.
The festival will have vendors of all types, including food trucks, beer and wine available to go along with the event. Lawn chairs and blankets are allowed, but no easy-ups or tents of any kind are permitted.
Limited free parking is available, but carpooling from the center of Easthampton is recommended to combat parking woes.
We run the T later into the night, because we want people to be out and be able to enjoy themselves. And the World Cup is a great opportunity to test this out.”
The governor emphasized that the last call expansion and public drinking districts are a local option opt-in, as cities and towns “know what’s going to work best” for themselves.
“So, I think this is a good opportunity for a city to test it out,
There will be an ATM on site, and the event will also feature many raffle prizes.
With another action-packed celebration set for June 27, Perrier said the fireworks are poised to be better than ever, and he added that it will be great to see people and their families enjoying the celebration of America.
“We want to thank the community, the people that volunteer and help, and the people that support it because it’s been a good cause and it keeps us going. Gives us old people something to be proud of,” Perrier said.
see how it goes,” she said. “I’m all for more vibrancy and more things happening later at night. We look at New York, there are other places that are doing this. We don’t have to do the exact same thing, but I’d love to see more vibrancy and more options.”
Sam Drysdale is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach her at sdrysdale@statehousenews.com.
A photo from previous Thunder in the Valley festivals.
Photo credit: Thunder in the Valley
Residents earn scholarships from The Massachusetts Society of CPAs
BOSTON — The Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants on June 8 announced that students from East Longmeadow, Springfield and Westfield were awarded scholarships by the MassCPAs Educational Foundation’s 2026 Scholarship Program.
Fifty students were honored for their awards at MassCPAs’ annual, member-wide networking event, Connect 2026, on May 13. The following local students received scholarships:
• East Longmeadow’s Dominic Burack, Western New England University, Johnson O’Connor Feron & Carucci LLP Scholarship
• Springfield’s Anais Jones, Springfield Technical Community College, Lisa Russell, CPA, Memorial Scholarship Westfield’s Kelsey Bouchard,
SPRINGFIELD — Beacon Bank has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s best regional banks for 2026, receiving the highest possible rating of five stars.
Western New England University, Edwin Doubleday CPA Memorial Scholarship
“It’s truly inspiring to see the talent and drive of this year’s scholarship winners,” said Zach Donah, CAE, president and CEO of MassCPAs. “Their commitment to excellence gives us great confidence that the accounting profession in Massachusetts will continue to thrive under their leadership. We are honored to play a role in their success and extend our deepest gratitude to the donors and volunteers who make this investment in our future possible.”
Scholarships are funded 100% through donations to the MassCPAs Educational Foundation.
The mission of the Foundation is to inspire and support the next generation of CPAs in Massachusetts. Since the program’s in-
ception in 2006, the foundation has awarded 500 scholarships to aspiring CPAs, ranging from $1,000-$10,000 and totaling more than $2.25 million. MassCPAs scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate accounting students who are attending a college or university in Massachusetts or attending a college or university out-of-state with a permanent residence in Massachusetts. Scholarship funds are issued directly to the students and can be used for tuition, books, interviewing expenses or other needs.
“Empowering students through these scholarships is at the heart of our mission to build a robust and resilient accounting workforce,” said Allie Orlando, director of academic and career development at MassCPAs. “We are thrilled to celebrate this year’s
recipients and look forward to seeing the significant contributions they will make to the profession.”
Results were based on a comprehensive research study that combined, among other metrics, financial benchmarking, a largescale independent customer survey and millions of digital reviews.
Beacon Bank was selected from more than 8,800 banks and credit unions across the country that are committed to powering local economies by supporting businesses, financing community projects and providing reliable access to everyday banking services.
“We are honored to be recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Regional Banks,” said Gary Levante, Beacon Bank’s chief marketing officer. “This distinction reflects the trust our clients place in us, strength of our capabilities and our commitment to delivering expert guidance, personalized support and local deci-
sion making that help our clients be ready for tomorrow, today.”
“We remain focused every day on being a strong, reliable partner that provides clear guidance, personalized support and decisions made close to home, so our clients can move forward with confidence,” he said. Newsweek partnered with
Plant-A Insights Group to
its America’s Best
and Credit
In all, 12
Dominic Burack.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
produce
Regional Banks
Unions 2026 list.
of Beacon Bank’s 145 branches are in the Pioneer Valley. They are in Springfield (three), Westfield (two), West Springfield, Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, South Hadley, Southwick and Agawam.
Shortsleeve would tie legislative funding to audit compliance
By Alison Kuznitz State House News Service
BOSTON — Angered by the Legislature’s tactics to curtail the scope of the voter-backed audit law, Republican Brian Shortsleeve said on June 8 that if he were governor, he would veto the budget appropriations for the House and Senate until they fully comply with Auditor Diana DiZoglio’s probe.
If Shortsleeve wins his bid for the corner office, he pledged to take away the money that covers legislative operations, salaries and leadership stipends. His campaign pegged that dollar amount at about $110 million.
“Here’s my view: If you’re refusing to comply with the law and the expressed will of the people, taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to keep writing you a blank check,” Shortsleeve said at a press conference outside the State House. “In more than 20 years building companies in the private sector, I’ve learned a simple lesson: If you don’t do the job you’re assigned to do, you don’t get paid. If you refuse oversight, there are consequences.”
According to the state’s final fiscal year 2026 annual budget, legislative appropriations totaled $91.3 million, including $49.8 million for the House, $30.7 million for the Senate, and $10.7 million for joint appropriations.
At a sparsely attended event, a white banner behind Shortsleeve said “veto” in red capital letters.
Shortsleeve’s proposed maneuver would likely be thwarted by the Legislature, which can overturn a gubernatorial veto with a twothirds vote in both branches. Asked about that possibility, Shortsleeve
said “it starts with leadership” as he accused Gov. Maura Healey of not returning a phone call or email to DiZoglio in more than a year and a half.
“As governor, I will take action,” Shortsleeve said. “Maura Healey has taken no action.”
Healey has said she voted for the audit ballot question, but she largely hasn’t intervened in the fight enveloping the Legislature, DiZoglio and Attorney General Andrea Campbell. Healey’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Shortsleeve’s remarks.
The long-running audit dispute hit a new boiling point last week.
The House passed a bill on June 3 that dramatically restricts the legislative probe that voters in 2024 authorized DiZoglio to conduct.
DiZoglio’s audit would be limited to the Legislature’s administrative functions under the measure, and the courts would also be blocked from resolving disputes between the auditor and lawmaker.
House leaders say their bill addresses their constitutional separation of power concerns, while DiZoglio contends the branch is suppressing the judiciary’s authority.
“They cannot legislate in the Mass. General Laws that the courts don’t have the power to adjudicate matters of law,” DiZoglio said on WCVB’s “On the Record” show that aired on June 7. “They are violating the separation of powers — that’s the courts’ role, not their role. And Mr. Speaker has led his membership down a very, very dangerous path.”
The Senate two weeks ago gave DiZoglio a narrow slate of records,
after passing a resolution that looks to guard the branch against future requests that senators claim could infringe on constitutional separation of power principles.
Shortsleeve says Healey should veto any legislation that limits the scope of the voter-backed audit law.
The House bill also subjects the governor’s office to the public records law — but not the Legislature. Pressed whether Healey should sign the bill for the sake of the public records component, Shortsleeve said, “It’s a bad bill — it should be vetoed.”
Reflecting on the 72% of voters who cast their ballot for the audit, Shortsleeve continued, “I think it’s outrageous that this building and this leadership has blown it off. I think it’s outrageous that our governor will not stand up and drive that audit through.”
Republican Mike Kennealy, who suspended his campaign for governor after falling short at the MassGOP convention in April, two weeks ago endorsed Mike Minogue. In a statement, Kennealy ridiculed Shortsleeve for running “an overwhelmingly negative and dishonest campaign.”
“Shortsleeve has a decision to make about whether to continue his campaign given the lack of public support for his candidacy, but whatever his choice, Mike Minogue will be the 2026 Republican nominee for Governor,” Kennealy said.
Shortsleeve on June 8 dismissed the endorsement as an “insider’s game” and pitched himself as the “pro-choice Republican in this race.” Minogue, a Catholic who’s pro life, has said he’ll uphold state laws protecting reproductive
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
Brinda Adkins
Helen C. Banas
Lorraine I. Babij
Shirley A. Brow
Robert B. Forster
Jose Antonio Lopez
Jeannine M. Martell
Phyllis J. Murdock
EAST LONGMEADOW
Priscilla Gagner
Stanley P. Garstka
Walter J. “Joe” Krol HAMPDEN
Jon P. Abrahamson
HOLYOKE
Helen G. Cadigan
Linda Duckworth
Susan E. Beer
Joan Casavant
Harvey L. Cook
Sheila A. DeRosier
Albert E. Hayes
SPRINGFIELD
Angelina A. Braica
Barbara Candage
Geoffrey E. Donovan
Henry F. Fuss
Philip Harris
Mark W. LaBonte Mary Postell
Sylvia Gheno Sullivan Margaret
“We’re getting a great response. I’m not very focused on the inside game,” Shortsleeve said. “I’m focused on the people of the state that want change.”
Minogue led Shortsleeve 45% to 13% in a Suffolk University/ Boston Globe poll of likely Republican primary voters but 40% of those surveyed between May 26 and May 29 were still undecided. In that same poll, 50% said that the candidates’ differences on abortion rights don’t make them more or less likely to vote for either candidate, while 33% said it made them more likely to vote Minogue, and 14% said it made them more likely to vote Shortsleeve.
“Abortion rights will matter
more in the general election, but among many of these Republican primary voters the issue doesn’t matter, and may even benefit Minogue,” said David Paleologos, director of the Suffolk University Political Research Center.
Tommy Hutcheson attacks for Minnechaug.
CHECK IT OUT!
Joey Woytowicz carries out of the Minnechaug end with Brayden Martin defending.
Parker Hoey makes the pass.
The Falcons’ Tucker Derosia defends Justin Lareau of the Brownies.
Liam Fanueff
Falcons.
Falcons goalie Ricky Hale prepares to make the save against Brayden Federico of Agawam.
Cam Fanueff (16) advances the ball for Minnechaug guarded by Agawam’s Liam Grealis.
Liam Metzger carries the ball up the field.
David Quinn (L) from Minnechaug looks to slow down Agawam’s Liam Grealis.
Ryan Semanie from Minnechaug attempts to break away from Agawam defenders Brayden Martin (L) and Grant Gionfriddo.
‘Chaug’s Tommy Hutcheson (L) and Liam Fanueff double-team Agawam’s Cam King.
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., Partial-Wolf Swamp Rd.
115 Papers:
