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Wilbraham martial artists win big in Vegas tourney IN THIS

By Peter Tuohy

ptuohy@thereminder.com

WILBRAHAM — Four martial artists from Wilbraham’s Giroux Bros. Martial Arts returned from Las Vegas as karate champions after placing first in their point sparring divisions at the Chuck Norris System International Training Championships, with one toting the coveted Norris Cup and the grand champion title.

The Chuck Norris System International Training Championships is a tournament held during the annual United Fighting Arts Federation conference, the organization founded by martial artist Chuck Norris. It features martial arts seminars, belt testing and championship competitions for students of the Chuck Norris System.

The Norris Cup is awarded to top champions in their respective divisions, known as grand champions. Winners have their names engraved and get to keep the trophy until returning to defend their title in the next year’s competition.

Steve and Mady Giroux are a father and daughter duo who run Giroux Bros. on Boston Road.

Steve, a ninth degree black belt, won the Norris Cup and grand champion title in 1999, 2010 and 2011. Steve and Mady have been

traveling since 2023 to fight in big karate tournaments throughout the country and Canada.

Mady, 18 years old, is a third degree black belt and followed right in her father’s footsteps this year by winning the Norris Cup in the women’s 18 to 29 division as a first-year adult competitor. She is the only 18-year old to ever win the Norris Cup. “Everyone wants to win that Norris Cup,” Steve said. “The fact that she did it this year fighting for her first time as an adult is awesome.”

She is also head instructor for the other three winners — first degree black belt Kennedy Wright and advanced red belts Sophie Sutter and Brooke Beaudoin.

Her championship match had her fighting back from a 3-0 deficit and winning 4-3. Mady fought and won again against the same opponent in a 4-0 match after receiving the Norris Cup, winning the “Warrior Legends Award” in the open weight division.

Mady began karate before she was 3 years old, and Steve said Mady told him that she wanted to “do what he did.”

She became eligible for a black belt at 11, but the COVID-19 pandemic halted it until she turned 12.

There are typically 10 black belt

EDITION EAST LONGMEADOW

Virality brings class of 2007 closer The “ELHS Class of 2007” Facebook page recently went viral.

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LONGMEADOW

Longmeadow to host ‘First Responder Night’ Longmeadow’s First Responder Night returns on Aug. 18

WILBRAHAM The first-place winners from Wilbraham’s Giroux Bros. Martial Arts posed with their titles.

Reminder Publishing submitted photos

degrees, and Mady will be eligible for her fourth degree belt next year.

Mady said she had not won at all during her first couple years at the tournament, and it made her want to take it a lot more seriously.

STAY, PLAY OR GROOM… ALL SUMMER LONG!

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“My dad started taking me to the national tournament, and then coming in as a 16 and 17-year-old,

‘Pizza with Puppolo’ returns with fraud protection seminar State Rep. Angelo Puppolo recently hosted a fraud protection seminar in Wilbraham.

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See STUDIO on page 2

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TOWN EVENTS www.TheReminder.com

Submit your community listings online at thereminder.com/ submit-an-event/ or by emailing dhackett@ thereminder.com. Events are subject to review and printed on a space available basis.

EAST LONGMEADOW EAST LONGMEADOW PUBLIC LIBRARY

The following events are organized by the East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square. For more information or to register, head to eastlongmeadowlibrary.org or call 413-525-5420.

End of Summer Reading Celebrations: • Mocktails & Main Characters — Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 5:307:30 p.m. Enjoy delicious mocktails, snacks, a free book of your choice, beach bag, a chance to win raffle prizes and lively conversation as everyone shares their favorite books of the summer. Whether you read one book or 20, celebrate with fellow readers. For ages 18 and up.

• End of Summer Skating Pary & Playquest — Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Interskate 91. Free admission, bring your own skates or rent for $5.

Interskate 91 is located at 2309 Boston Road in Wilbraham.

Teen programs: • Summer Crafternoon — Thursday, Aug. 13, at 2:30 p.m. This is the last Summer Crafternoon before school starts.

Kids programs:

Studio

Continued from page 1

I wiped the floor with my division,” Mady said. “I point-spread them, they basically call it a mercy rule. I had a little bit more con-

• •

Yoga @ The Depot — Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 10 a.m. for ages 3 and up.

Storytime with Mrs. O — Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 6 p.m. Registration is required.

PLEASANT VIEW SENIOR CENTER

The following events will be held at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main St., East Longmeadow. For more information or to register for programs, call 413-525-5436.

• Bygone Excursions Table Top Friday, Aug. 21, 11 a.m. to noon.

• Ice Cream Bar with Entertainment from The Boomers — Friday, Aug. 21, at 12:45 p.m.

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 413-5665588.

• Hawaiian Shirt Day Lunch & Ukulele Concert — Friday, Aug. 21, at noon. Join the Senior Center for a lunch of Hawaiian chicken salad, ginger lime coleslaw, macaroni salad, a Hawaiian roll and pineapple provided

by Greater Springfield Senior Services in celebration of National Hawaiian Shirt Day. • Wear your favorite tropical or Hawaiian shirt and listen to the sounds of the Hampden Senior Center Ukulele Group. Cost is a $3.00 suggested donation for lunch.

• Memory Café: Rhythm & Motion with Sara — Friday, Aug. 21, ar 10:15 a.m.

• Floral Mirror — Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 10 a.m. to noon. Cost

fidence coming back home that year and having this year to keep training and competing on the national level” She had watched her opponents’ fight videos “a thousand times,” and she said all she had to do was not get in her head.

•

is $10. All materials will be provided. Projects are displayed in the vestibule. Pre-registration is required.

Chair Massage with Mindy — By appointment Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. $10 for a 10-minute appointment.

GARDEN CLUB MEETING

On Thursday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m., the Hampden Garden Club will host Chris Ferrero, a writer and consultant, who will present her program “All About Hydrangeas”.

Ferrero trained as a Cornell master gardener in New York. For 10 years, she led demonstration garden teams, plant propagation workshops, alternative-to-invasives work groups and children’s programs. The program will be at the new meeting location at the Town Hall (formerly Thornton W. Burgess Middle School), 85 Wilbraham Road, Room A7. Guests are asked to use the Library Entrance.

There is a $5 fee for non-members of the garden club. New members are welcome! Membership fee for the year is $15 and includes admission to all programs.

LONGMEADOW RICHARD SALTER STORRS LIBRARY

The following events take place at the Richard Salter Storrs Library, 593 Longmeadow St. For more information or to register for programs, call 413-565-4181, or head to longmeadowlibrary.org.

All ages programs: • Book Bike at First Responder Night — Tuesday, Aug.18, 5-8 p.m. Visit the book bike at the First Responders Night Out

“Going into it, I wanted to win the cup,” Mady said. “The Warrior Legend Award is nice, but the cup was something that no 18-year-old has done before.”

Steve said seeing his daughter win as a first-time adult fighter after 16 years of training made him

at the Town Green! Check out a selection of books and visit the Storrs Library Read Cross Stuffed Animal Doctors.

Youth programs: • Youth Chess (Kindergarten and up) — Monday, Aug. 17, 3:154:15 p.m.

• Stories and Movement (ages 2 and up) — Tuesday, Aug. 18, 9:30-10 a.m.

• Board Book Baby Time — Tuesday, Aug. 18, 10:45-11:30 a.m.

• Read Cross: Stuffed Animal Hospital Stuffed animal drop off — Tuesday, Aug. 18, 5-8 p.m.

• Slime Party — Thursday, Aug. 20, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Adult programs: • Traveling Library — Monday, Aug. 17, 2:15-4:30 p.m.

• LHS Presents: Stroll America Series: Lives and Livelihoods in Colonial Longmeadow with Bob Abel — Monday, Aug. 17, 6:307:30 p.m.

• VIRTUAL Celebrating America’s 250th: Presidential Doodler Heather Rogers — Monday, Aug. 17, 7-8 p.m.

• VIRTUAL: Play Along Ukulele from Home! — Monday, August 17, 7-8 p.m.

• Fiber Arts Meeting at First Responders Night — Tuesday, Aug. 18, 6-7:30 p.m.

• The Magic of Mushrooms with Jonathan Kranz — Tuesday, Aug. 18, 6-7:30 p.m.

• Music Appreciation with Rob Humberston — Wednesday, Aug. 19, 1-2:30 p.m.

• The Jake Manzi Duo in Concert! — Wednesday, Aug. 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

• Bocce on the Lawn — Thursday, Aug. 20, 11:00 a.m. to noon

•

proud and excited.

“She knew her goals going into this,” Steve said. “She’s like ‘dad, I want that Norris Cup. I need to win that Norris Cup.’ I knew she had the ability to do it, and it took me, I was 22 when I won mine the first time. Coming in as a brand new 18-year-old, she’s got the talent, she’s got the skill, but she lacked a little bit of the experience that only comes with time. For her to overcome the deficit is huge because, a lot of the times like any other sport, it’s a mental game …

When you’re down by three points right the beginning and already a minute into a two-minute match, it’s very impressive that she was able to come back and not let her head get in the way.”

Mady added that she can’t put feelings to words on how excited she felt to see her three students also win first place, and that she couldn’t be more proud. She said winning the Norris Cup is exciting, but she was more excited to see how well her students did.

“I stepped in as the coach for

my girls when they were fighting because my dad was wrapped into judging for the tournament,” Mady said. “I was right alongside them. They come into the studio and everyone has stuff going on, but when they come in, some six times a week, they leave everything outside and put it all onto the mat.”

She said her students are aged from elementary school to high school, but everyone is willing to put the time and effort in and it paid off.

“We were all there supporting each other,” Mady said. “Knowing they have the passion and drive to be competitors, especially in fighting, it was just amazing to see.”

Each competitor is already locked in for their tournament returns next year to defend their titles.

Giroux Bros. is also currently in the process of expanding to a new 3,500-square-foot Wilbraham facility. More information on programs and schedules can be found at girouxbros.com.

• •

Downsizing with Confidence — Thursday, Aug. 20, 2-3 p.m.

Storrs Stitchers (Drop-In) — Friday, Aug. 21, 10-11:30 a.m.

Dungeons & Dragons — Saturday, Aug. 22, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

POETRY WRITING IN NATURE WITH JANET MCFADYEN

In this poetry workshop on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Janet MacFadyen will share how she draws her poetry from journals she keeps when hiking and walking; then there will be some preliminary writing as a group before breaking up to wander about the Refuge or settling down in a favorite spot. Think of this as a time to look around, listen, and dream, and see what ends up down on your page or screen. Then the group will reconvene to share and listen to each other, whatever you are moved to do. Bring something to write with and a portable chair. Water, a snack, sunscreen and bug repellant are also recommended. The group plans to meet at the Pavilion on Pondside Rd. for some shade.

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.

• VIRTUAL:America’s 250th: Presidential Doodler Heather Rogers — Monday, Aug. 17, from 7-8 p.m.

• Adult Crafternoon: Seashell Craft — Friday, Aug. 21, from 2-3:30 p.m.

Steve Giroux and Mady Giroux took home the coveted Norris Cup and the Warrior Legends Award after Mady’s grand champion and first place wins.

Reminder Publishing submitted photos

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EAST LONGMEADOW | AUGUST 13 - 19, 2026

Healey signs new immigrant protection bill amidst supporters

By Katie Castellani State House News Service

CHELSEA — It was hard to tell whether Gov. Maura Healey hosted a party or bill signing ceremony when she signed legislation on Aug. 5 that the governor and lawmakers say provides the strongest immigrant protections in the country.

A band played and while Healey gave her remarks, the governor’s voice was repeatedly drowned out by the cheers of dozens of supporters who packed into a hot, crowded room.

The new law (H 5620), known as the PROTECT Act, arose as a top priority for lawmakers and the governor amid intensified immigration law enforcement efforts led by President Donald Trump.

The law expands protections against warrantless civil immigration arrests at courthouses as well as public schools, childcare centers and healthcare facilities.

“I think we can agree that we need immigration reform in this country. We can agree we need controls at the border. We can also agree that ICE is so wrong in what it’s doing, and ICE needs to be stopped here in Massachusetts and around this country,” Healey said during a bill signing ceremony in Chelsea at La Colaborativa, a nonprofit focused on supporting immigrants.

Healey, a Democrat seeking reelection this year, called Trump’s immigration enforcement tactics “cruel, unconstitutional, un-American; It is so stupid.”

She also referenced Trump’s recent decision to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitian and Syrian immigrants.

By ramping up immigration enforcement actions, Trump is pursuing campaign promises he made to increase deportations as part of an effort to reduce crime and crack down on illegal immigration. Protests have unfolded across the country in response to the increasingly violent actions

by Immigration and Customs En-

forcement agents.

“Today in Massachusetts, we’re saying enough is enough.

We’re standing up for what’s right, and we’re taking action to protect people’s safety,” Healey said. “The PROTECT Act is the strongest law in the country to protect people from ICE and to protect public safety.”

Fidel Maltez, Chelsea’s city manager, said the law offers relief to many in the community who have been afraid to go to work, school and other locations over fears of running into ICE agents. Chelsea has among the highest foreign-born populations in Massachusetts, with latest U.S. Census numbers showing about 46% of the city’s residents are immigrants.

“We in the city have seen the cost of that fear: empty classroom seats, neighbors who have left the state, businesses that have shuttered, and trust broken between residents and our institutions that are meant to protect them. But today, today that changes. Today our governor makes history. Today the PROTECT Act becomes the law of the land,” Maltez said to a roaring round of applause.

The sweeping legislation also codifies the Massachusetts’ Supreme Judicial Court 2017 Lunn v. Commonwealth decision that found there is “no authority for Massachusetts court officers to arrest and hold an individual solely on the basis of a Federal civil immigration detainer.” It prohibits new agreements allowing state and local officials to perform certain federal immigration enforcement actions while preserving the Department of Correction’s existing agreement with ICE. The law allows parents to arrange guardianship for their children in case they are detained, and creates a civil cause of action against federal law enforcement officers who violate a resident’s constitutional rights.

Under an emergency preamble lawmakers attached to the bill, the

Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll arrive at La Colaborativa in Chelsea to sign a law, H 5620, aiming at boosting immigrant protections on Wednesday, Aug. 5.

State House News Service photo by Katie Castellani

sweeping law will go into effect immediately.

While supporters celebrated the bill’s signing on Aug. 5, opponents have raised concerns.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve issued a statement saying that by signing the bill, Healey “prioritizes politics over public safety,” as the law will limit cooperation between state and federal law enforcement officers.

“Governor Healey’s decision to sign the PROTECT Act is driven by politics, not public safety,” Shortsleeve said. “There is no safer or more secure place for state authorities to transfer a criminal into federal custody than a courthouse and this law bars that from happening. Instead, this law creates new barriers to cooperation and sends the wrong message at the wrong time.”

Massachusetts Coalition for Immigration Reform said the law “is an ill-advised measure that assigns a higher priority to ideology than to public safety” and “by any measure illegal immigration is economically and socially harmful.”

“By preventing [law enforcement agencies] from communicating with ICE concerning persons

in custody, the PROTECT law in effect protects criminal aliens who should otherwise be deported,” the group said in a press release issued Wednesday. “MCIR believes that ICE agents deserve our support in performing the critical, difficult, and often dangerous task of securing our borders and protecting Americans from terrorists and criminal aliens.”

The Asian Pacific Islanders Civic Action Network applauded the bill’s enactment and called for more protections for immigrants.

Among the group’s requests were: banning all 287(g) agreements in the state, including the DOC’s, and ending institutions that share information among different levels of law enforcement.

Also, the group said immigrant communities, like Muslim and Asian American and Pacific Islanders, were left out of some conversations.

“For too long, we have seen how the voices and experiences of current and formerly incarcerated immigrants are erased from policy because of criminal carveouts and the PROTECT Act is no exception,” the group said in a July 31 press release. “This approach reinforces the very systems that have long placed immi-

grants at greater risk of detention and deportation.”

Healey emphasized the law as a public safety measure. The governor also said the conversation surrounding immigrant protections is not finished.

“There will be ugliness coming out of today. There will be ugly rhetoric. There will be meanness. There will be cruelty. There will be racist tirades. You see it online and elsewhere,” she said.

“Okay, listen. We’ll be strong.

We’ll be tough. We know what’s right. We know how to protect ourselves. We know how to protect public safety, and we know what we need to do because we know how terrible, terrible ICE has been in Massachusetts and around this country, and this is about stopping it.”

Before signing the law, Healey issued a statement the morning of Aug. 5 calling on ICE agents to keep their vehicles out of Boston in response to NBC 10 reporting that ICE was looking to lease 249 parking spots downtown.

Katie Castellani is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts.

Reach her at kcastellani@statehousenews.com.

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THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS

Virality brings East Longmeadow High School’s class of 2007 closer

By Peter Tuohy

ptuohy@thereminder.com

EAST LONGMEADOW — The 233 members of East Longmeadow High School’s 2007 graduating class walked the stage to receive their diplomas and close out their high school careers nearly 20 years ago. One Facebook post while planning a reunion has since turned the 233 alumni into 10,000 followers and honorary alumni after reaching the feeds of people all across the country.

The “ELHS Class of 2007” Facebook page and reunion planning began with old photos and memories from high school years. The page turned a simple “yes or no” RSVP invite into an online forum of inside jokes and roasts, bridging and strengthening friendships nearly two decades after the final school bell

rang, while also bringing in people who have never even stepped foot into East Longmeadow.

The page quickly gained attention with 300,000 views after it jokingly posted the roast against a former classmate for being the first “no” on the RSVP. It gained more ground after the second “no” response and roast, receiving nearly 3,000 likes, 600 comments and 1.5 million views.

Followers hail from many different states, such as Ohio, New Jersey, New York, Florida, Indiana, Washington, Minnesota and Missouri, commenting things like “I don’t know how I got here, but can I come?” Others have pleaded for the reunion to be live-streamed.

The reunion planning team refers to themselves as the “core four,” and is made up of Susan Commisso, Charles Shenk, Gi-

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The East Longmeadow High School Class of 2007 posed for its yearbook photo.

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uliano Basile and Cory Karalekas. Commisso, the account’s voice, said she never expected the account to gain attention outside of the 2007 class, let alone hit 10,000 followers.

“At first, we all kind of cackled about it,” Commisso said.

“We thought it was strange, just the concept that people are literally following a reunion page, but then we realized it wasn’t the fact that it’s the reunion, like the party that’s bringing everyone together, it’s the stuff that we’re talking about. We’re lovingly roasting each other and hoping that we change people’s minds to come to this party, so we can see how ev-

erybody is and what they’ve accomplished. That has been huge for us, and just seeing a safe space on social media where people are genuinely having a good time.”

She said that the following has had an impact on the party planning, and that a lot of people want to come since it’s become a big thing.

“They have family all over the world that have heard about it and it’s kind of mind boggling,” Commisso said. “We also have some people that are not really about the whole big thing, and we don’t want to deter our classmates away from coming. We are actually trying to integrate a weekend where

GOODWIN UNIVERSITY DEAN’S LIST EAST HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT — Gregory Pray of East Longmeadow was one of 512 students who achieved dean’s list status for the spring 2026 session. Dean’s List inclusion requires a student to earn a minimum 3.5 GPA, the equivalent of an A- average, during a given academic session. The student must also be enrolled in a minimum of six academic credits to qualify.

one day, we could have families … We are trying to find a balance with it, and for the most part, everyone in our class is pretty excited and amped up about it.”

Commisso said most of the comments have something positive to say and that the account followers showcase “everybody being happy to be in one spot.”

“It’s been wonderful and healing,” Commisso said. “This whole thing has been life changing, for myself as well as the ‘core four.’ It literally brought us together and opened a new friendship for us four and in doing all of this and speaking to classmates, and new people that we’re roasting, our old principal and hopefully teachers are able to reconnect and reminisce and talk about the future. It’s seriously been so rewarding and just a great experience overall.”

The current goal is to get every 2007 graduate at the party, and Commisso said there’s about 40 people left to locate.

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EAST LONGMEADOW | AUGUST 13 - 19, 2026

BEST FRESH LOCALLY GROWN! Opponents knock Healey’s latest THE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL FARMERS! Local Field Grown pick to fill Parole Board seat TOMATOES! Red, Ripe & Delicious

By Ella Adams

State House News Service

BOSTON — Opponents of Gov. Maura Healey’s Parole Board nominee Kaitlyn O’Leary lined the Governor’s Council chamber on Aug. 5 as the council heard testimony on Healey’s second attempt to fill the open slot.

While three supporters honed in on O’Leary’s work and reputation — attorney Michael Bergeron characterized her as “fair, reasonable and honorable” — over 10 people testified in opposition, calling on the council to reject the nomination and instead bring someone into the fold who has expertise in rehabilitation and reentry.

“I think sometimes historically we have amnesia,” opponent Matt Hudson said, noting his familiarity with the board because of his time spent incarcerated.

“For decades, parole has been denied to eligible men and women because of prosecutorial prosecutors on the board, like Miss O’Leary. This is not a judgment against her, but it talks about the mindset of a prosecutor. She can’t help herself. And we should not put that burden on her.”

Healey appealed to councilors ahead of the 1:15 p.m. hearing, touting O’Leary’s understanding of the criminal justice system and telling them that the board “lacks representation from an attorney, a lawyer, a prosecutor who understands criminal law and also has experience — important experience — working directly with victims and survivors.” O’Leary, who began working for the board in November 2023 as an attorney and has also worked as an assistant district attorney in the Bristol and Plymouth County District Attorneys’ offices, spoke extensively during her hearing about those experiences.

“I was here before. I’m here again. This is important to me.

This is important to Massachusetts,” Healey said, referring to her appeal before the council in May in support of her first Parole Board nominee Vincent DeMore.

The council voted 4-3 to reject DeMore, after his nomination sparked backlash from advocates who said his work as a prosecutor doesn’t reflect the “type of multidisciplinary, rehabilitative expertise” they said is needed on the board and that he may follow other board members who left the board to pursue judgeships.

Healey then nominated O’Leary, also was an assistant attorney general from 2019 to 2022 under Healey, who served as state attorney general from 2015 to 2023.

“You all have done a great job in saying, or at least pushing back and saying, ‘We don’t need a prosecutor at this time on the board.’ The governor’s doubled down and said, ‘We will get a prosecutor. ‘ And now I’m saying, are you going to listen to the people that you represent? Or are you going to listen to the governor because you are afraid of political backlash?” Hudson asked.

Licensed independent clinical social worker Olivia Dubois, who also testified in opposition Wednesday, said ahead of the hearing that more than 20 organizations and 200 constituents signed a letter in opposition to O’Leary’s nomination, arguing that the board “lacks members who are experts in rehabilitation and reentry,” and that her confirmation would make the board majority “law enforcement” with its makeup of “probation, parole and prosecutors.”

Councilor Christopher Iannella pushed back at a couple of testifiers for how they categorized “law enforcement” members on the board, and Councilor

Joseph Ferreira expressed frustration with those characterizations, as well.

Ferreira, issuing support for O’Leary, said, “I don’t know anyone with more knowledge of the Parole Board than you.”

“I do listen to the people in my town, in my district — 900,000 people. Never once has anyone come up to me and said, ‘Hey, I want you to put people on the Parole Board to let more people out of jail.’ I have never heard that in my 12 years that I’ve been here. I have heard people that read the newspapers, when they go, ‘Oh my God, how could the Parole Board let that person out?’” Ferreira said. “I think that public safety has to be first. I think that victims need to be notified and heard.”

Republican candidate for governor Brian Shortsleeve and former gubernatorial candidate Michael Kennealy have criticized recent decisions of the board, arguing an overhaul is needed for public safety reasons.

First Assistant Chief Probation Officer at the Brockton District Court Michelle Rawdon spoke about how O’Leary cares about those she interacts with, seeing them “as people and not just statistics” and approaching her job holistically.

But Louis D. Brown Peace Institute Re-entry Services Director Milton Jones, who said he was formerly incarcerated and exonerated, told councilors he didn’t believe a former prosecutor should serve on the board.

“The roles of prosecutor and parole decisionmakers are fundamentally different and create an appearance of bias that undermines public confidence,” Jones said. “The parole process is intended to focus on rehabiliSee PAROLE on page 7

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Contents inside East Longmeadow’s 1976-2026 time capsule revealed

By Peter Tuohy

ptuohy@thereminder.com

EAST LONGMEADOW — East Longmeadow residents gathered at the Pleasant View Senior Center for the unveiling of items inside the 1976-2026 time capsule on Aug. 6.

The town buried the capsule in Heritage Park on July 18, 1976, and unearthed it back in May. Some contents were damaged beyond repair by 50 years of water damage, so the East Longmeadow Historical Commission en-

sured the new capsule, buried on July 16, would be air tight with vacuum-sealed items.

Historical Commission member George Kingston showcased each item, including things like letters by residents, old town photos, business cards, cassette tapes, money and even pieces from The Game of Life.

Residents also had the chance to keep the items relating to them, such as letters from family members, or pass them on if they knew the person, family or organization who put the item in.

Above, Historical Commission member George Kingston displays an American Revolution bicentennial flag. Top right, the 1976-2026 time capsule on display, sitting open for the first time in 50 years.

Right, Residents sorted through the pile of items to take home the ones relating to them.

Reminder Publishing photos by Peter Tuohy

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Longmeadow to host First Responder Night

By Peter Tuohy

ptuohy@thereminder.com

The East Longmeadow Reminder is available for delivery by mail for $9/month or $104/year.

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The Longmeadow Police Department will host a K-9 demonstration along with an array of other community activities.

HATFIELD

tunity to come face-to-face with the Police Department and speak with us on a personal level, which is valuable,” Mazzaferro said. “They get to see and speak with [Chief Robert Stocks], get to speak with myself and the same thing with the Fire Department, you know, [Chief John Rigney] and [Deputy Fire Chief Andrew Markt]. It’s a great opportunity to have that personal time with the community and com-

municate with them.”

Mazzaferro said he has always been a community policing officer and he loves the community outreach aspect.

“I love being around our residents and speaking with them,” Mazzaferro said. “I think that’s my favorite part of it, just spending time with our community and our residents in an atmosphere that’s open.”

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sold out of food. It’s been a very well received event throughout the community, and every year it seems to become more popular as we have it.”

He added that the night is a way for both departments to thank the community and also demonstrate the departments’ services, such as how the Fire Department can assist evacuating a vehicle.

“It also gives people the oppor-

WESTHAM PTON

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Reminder Publishing file photo

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LONGMEADOW — Longmeadow is calling out to residents and families for a celebration of the town’s first responders in a dual event with the Longmeadow Police and Fire departments.

First Responder Night is set for Aug. 18 from 5-8 p.m. on the Town Green, instead of Williams Middle School. Residents can celebrate and meet their local first responders, explore emergency vehicles, learn about public safety, dine from an array of local food vendors and experience a K-9 demo.

The event began in 2021 and has been a tradition between the two departments ever since, with Sgt. Danielle Rex-Bernashe, K-9 handler Sgt. Amanda VanBuskirk and Detective Jessee Dabrea working as the main collaborators from the Police Department.

Activities have previously included face painting, balloon animals, bounce houses and the Fire Department cutting up a car. There has also been helicopter landings, which will not return this year due to space.

Police Capt. Carl Mazzaferro said it’s a community event that seems to grow each year.

“We had a few hundred people there last year,” Mazzaferro said.

“It was a great event to the point where many of the food vendors

The East Longmeadow Reminder is published weekly by Reminders Publishing, LLC.

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Parole Continued from page 5

tation, institutional behavior, evidence-based risk assessment, and successful reintegration — not to retry original cases. A prosecutor has often spent years building a case against defendants and advocating for lengthy incarceration. Even if the prosecutor acts in good faith, which I’m sure she has, the public can reasonably question whether they can fully separate that professional identity.”

Councilor Mara Dolan asked O’Leary about concerns that her work as a prosecutor means she’ll continue thinking like a prosecutor and wrongfully deny parole, to which O’Leary said, “the aim of the board must be to strike the balance between second chances and public safety.”

“It would be naive to think that no one who has been denied parole might not have gone on to recidivate, but I can tell you that I take the weight of this responsibility very seriously, and would evaluate each individual case on individual merits,” O’Leary added.

Chief Empowerment Officer at THRIVE Communities of Massachusetts Kim Yeasir said, “It’s clear that the governor wants to see someone who is victim-centered on the Parole Board, and I don’t see any opposition to that.

I think there’s many candidates who can hold that and people

with lots of skills around supporting survivors.” She encouraged the council “to consider what that might look like outside of prosecution,” alongside a number of different people from social and reentry organizations and others who said they’d been wrongfully imprisoned.

Iannella later asked O’Leary, “What do you say to these people? They’re not against you, they just think if you’re on the Parole Board they’re not gonna get a fair shake.” She replied that she “appreciate[d] their advocacy” and said she became a lawyer due to “a call to public service.”

Iannella again asked her, “With all due respect, you really didn’t answer my question.”

“I hear these stories. Thirty-three years in jail. How do you sleep at night if you’re on the Parole Board and you voted against this person’s parole?” Ianella said. “Forget about all that experience here and there. As a human being, tell me what you feel.”

O’Leary replied: “Those stories are devastating. Absolutely devastating.”

In another line of questioning about how important it is to her that people show remorse when coming before the board, O’Leary said that taking responsibility “can be important evidence of personal growth” but that “it is not a prerequisite for a person to take responsibility as being necessary for a positive parole grant.”

Councilor Tara Jacobs told O’Leary that “There’s a lot I like

about you, there’s a lot I like about but also do good to where we can your values,” but that “the type of in our criminal justice system,” experience I think would add di- Civil continued. versity is not legal experience.”

Councilor Paul DePalo also “We could benefit from some- questioned O’Leary on issues one with clinical psychology such as whether she thinks vicexperience, with deep, deep re- tims are being heard by the board entry experience, rehabilitative and how she’d approach crafting experience, social work [expe- conditions of parole. He noted rience] and the list goes on, just that he “personally could care Graphic Design Manager: in terms of what we don’t have,” less if there’s a lawyer on the Beth Thurber Jacobs said.

Parole Board” and drew in 2021Councilor Tamisha Civil, era conversations about structurwho chaired the hearing, told the al racism in the parole process.

News Service her vote depends O’Leary said she does feel like upon what her constituents want, victims are being heard by the and that “I believe that everyone board, expressing that she has has the opportunity to share their worked through cases with vicexperience and what they’ve seen tims in her role. throughout the criminal justice The Governor’s Council at its system. However, we are looking noon meeting voted 6-0 to confor balance. If we look around firm both Christopher Spring as our state of Massachusetts, there an associate justice of the Superihas been an increase of gun vio- or Court and Lisa McCormack as lence, there has been an increase an associate justice of the Probate of sexual violence.” and Family Court.

“Once a prosecutor is not al- Ella Adams is a reporter for the ways a prosecutor. Once a crim- State House News Service and inal is not always a criminal. We State Affairs Massachusetts. all have an opportunity to evolve Reach ether at ella.adams@ and learn from our experiences, statehousenews.com.

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Operations Director: Curtis Panlilio Executive Editor: Chris Maza Managing Editors: Dennis Hackett, Ryan Feyre Staff Writers: Sarah Heinonen, Deb Gardner, Amy Porter, Trent Levakis, Cliff Clark, Tyler Garnet, Peter Tuohy Graphic Design Department: Lorie Perry, Sophia McClellan, Susan Bartlett, Molly Arnio, Jim Johnson-Corwin Sales Manager: Scott Greene Account Executives: Matt Mahaney, Paula Dimauro, Lisa Nolan, Jeanette Grenier, Paul Poutre, Andy Shaw, Laura Tassistro Classified Account Managers: Roxanne Miller-Longtin, Evan Marcyoniak, Shannon Spada Sales Support: Carolyn Napolitan Financial Department: Nancy Banning Circulation Department: Holly Mulligan, Nate Halla, Whitney Conlon

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AUGUST 13 - 19, 2026 | EAST LONGMEADOW

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LONGMEADOW www.TheReminder.com

Committee submits 90% design documents for middle school

By Peter Tuohy

ptuohy@thereminder.com

LONGMEADOW — The Longmeadow Middle School Building Committee is inching closer to the start of construction on the new middle school after unanimously approving to submit 90% of design documents into the Massachusetts School Building Authority for consideration.

The committee held a special meeting on Aug. 5 to approve the MSBA submission, which needed the documents before the week of Aug. 10.

Jones Whitsett Architects Principal Kristian Whitsett said at the July 8 meeting that completing 90% of designs is a major milestone and includes 507 sheets of drawings and 3.254 pages of specifications.

The drawings cover floor plans and are duplicated to include more details, such as electrical, lighting, alarm systems and technology. This is the last step before construction is set to begin in September, which will continue until fall 2028’s move-in. “[The 90% submission] is really exciting because this is our last, kind of, this is our last submission that they review,” Whitsett said. “This is the last one that goes in with a binder, and kind of all the other supplemen-

tal documentation. They do get our final bid set in September, but that’s final and it’s just for their records. We’re very close to that bid step being complete, and again, as you’re all well aware, the construction is underway at the same time.”

Whitsett covered the schematic design estimated budget of $118.8 million — the targeted cost and the cost approved by the MSBA. The project’s total budget is $151.6 million, which Whitsett said has been maintained throughout the project.

The 90% construction documents after reconciliation estimated the cost at $118.2 million, with around $700,000 under the schematic design estimates.

Whitsett said the $700,000 difference is good news and “super encouraging.”

A rooftop photovoltaic system that converts sunlight into electricity is included in an “alternates” section, which is estimated to cost between $1.5 to $1.7 million.

The alternates section lists separate prices for adding, removing or changing parts of the work, and Whitsett said he is optimistic the system will be included in bid packages.

Committee Chair Armand Wray asked when the photovoltaic system should be added into

Jones Whitsett Architects provided a rendering of the new Longmeadow Middle School entrance at the Middle School Building Committee meeting on Aug. 5.

Photo credit: LongmeadowTV

the project, and Whitsett said it would happen after the final numbers and the 100% bids go out. Whitsett also said it will have to be done before the guaranteed maximum prices are settled with Fontaine Bros., the project’s construction manager.

Fontaine Project Executive Jason Boudreau said 100% of construction documents are coming

at the end of September, and the filed sub-bids and non-trade bids at the end of October. He said it will be the first telltale sign of a “good pulse” to add the system in.

Wray asked “at what point do we feel comfortable there’s no big surprises with the new building, understood we have no idea what happens when we take down the old building,” and if most of the

site work will be done.

Boudreau said a lot of the site work will be done, and that most of the “unknowns” for the new building and property will hopefully be uncovered.

Project updates as they are posted can be found at longmeadow.k12.ma.us/school-committee/ middle-school-building-project.

Legacy Lifecare VNA receives prestigious hospice honors award LONGMEADOW — Legacy Lifecare VNA & Hospice West has received the prestigious Hospice Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Honors Award for the fourth consecutive year. The annual recognition honors top-performing hospice agencies across the United States for excellence in patient and caregiver experience.

Presented by MatrixCare, the

Hospice CAHPS Honors Award recognizes hospice organizations that demonstrate exceptional performance in patient and caregiver experience. Recipients must score above the national performance benchmark on 100% of the 24 evaluated questions, making the award a significant measure of consistent, high-quality hospice care.

“We are truly honored to re-

ceive this recognition for the fourth consecutive year,” said Madeline Presz, RN, BSN, senior director of home and community services. “To be recognized for exceeding the national performance score in every one of the 24 areas measured is a meaningful reflection of the trust our patients and families place in us. It recognizes the consistency, compassion, and teamwork our en-

tire hospice team brings to every interaction, every day. Our goal is always to ensure that patients and families feel heard, supported, and cared for with dignity, and we are incredibly proud that their experiences continue to reflect that commitment.”

For Legacy Lifecare VNA & Hospice West, receiving the Hospice CAHPS Honors Award for four consecutive years re-

flects an ongoing commitment to delivering compassionate, person-centered care and creating positive experiences for patients and their families.

Visit legacylifecare.org/ care-options/vna-palliative-care-hospice-services/ for more information about Legacy Lifecare VNA & Hospice West and its services.

Advance Psychotherapy Practice announces 12-week grief and loss group LONGMEADOW, Mass. — Advance Psychotherapy Practice announced the upcoming launch of its Grief and Loss Group, a 12-week virtual group for adults who have experienced loss and are seeking connection, support,and practical coping strategies.

The group will begin on Sept.

23 and will meet virtually on Wednesdays from 5-6:30 p.m.

It will be facilitated by Phet DiLullo, LICSW, and Katelyn Tower, LICSW. The Grief and Loss Group is designed to help participants connect with others, develop a sense of community, normalize their grief experiences and learn

strategies to support their healing. Participants will explore the grief process, identify and express feelings associated with loss, begin accepting the reality of their loss and build a stronger support system.

“Grief can feel isolating, and this group offers participants a place to feel understood and

supported while learning ways to navigate their healing,” said Phet DiLullo, LICSW, one of the group’s facilitators.

The new group is part of APP’s continued expansion of mental health services throughout Western Massachusetts, including its recently opened Longmeadow office at 171 Dwight Road, Suite

203. The Longmeadow location provides in-person and telehealth psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, and is currently accepting new clients.

To learn more or register for the Grief and Loss Group, visit advancepsychotherapy.org/ grief-and-loss-group.

BusinessWest announces Women of Impact nominations are open SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest, the business journal of Western Massachusetts, is now accepting nominations for the ninth annual Women of Impact awards.

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‘Pizza with Puppolo’ returns with fraud protection seminar

By Peter Tuohy

ptuohy@thereminder.com

WILBRAHAM — A special edition of “Pizza with Puppolo” with state Rep. Angelo Puppolo, alongside Hampden County Register of Deeds Cheryl Coakley-Rivera, informed homeowners of title fraud preventions, deed theft and resources available to protect property ownership at the Wilbraham Senior Center on Aug. 4.

“Pizza with Puppolo” is a regular event where residents have the opportunity to speak with Puppolo while he discusses legislative events during a pizza lunch. Alongside a few different types of pizza, residents also received a complimentary copy of their property deed.

Puppolo told Reminder Publishing that the presentation covered how to “protect the biggest asset that people have, their homes.”

He said people don’t realize that something has happened until it’s too late, so the event is designed to take preventative measures so that people are aware of the protections available to them.

“There’s a lot of concern about title fraud, about deed fraud,” Puppolo said. “There’s a lot of issues relative to people

putting liens on houses and different things that people don’t know about. What this seminar is gonna do, it’s gonna talk about how to protect yourself, how to be aware if anything goes awry and to find out what you can do if something does happen … We’re trying to make people aware of what’s out there for protection, know what to do, how to protect yourself and then you know what to do if something does happen to you.”

Puppolo said he’s passed laws to the Legislature that relate to privacy, cybersecurity and data security, and that this is an extension to those.

“There’s so many TV commercials you see that try to get you to make sure you’re aware of these types of situations, and it’s a growing problem,” Puppolo said. “Unfortunately, thieves are getting smarter and smarter. Technology is getting better and better and they’re able to recreate and do things that you weren’t able to do years ago. We need to combat that with arming the individual with the informa- State Rep. Angelo Puppolo stood with Hampden County Register of Deeds Cheryl Coakley-Rivera to tion they need … its become a inform homeowners on protections against fraud at his “Pizza with Puppolo” event on Aug. 4. growing issue and we want to Reminder Publishing photo by Peter Tuohy nip anything in the bud, and I want to protect my residents and my constituents from any type vided residents with a handout sign up for a free consumer no- recorded at hampdendeeds.com detailing protections against tification system that alerts in- if they are concerned about poof problem that may occur.”

Coakley-Rivera also pro- property fraud. Residents can dividuals when a document is tential property fraud.

Signature cases add fuel to calls for ballot access reform

By Katie Castellani State House News Service

BOSTON — In the wake of alleged signature fraud, rifts within the Republican Party have emerged. Republicans and Democrats have also found common ground: a desire to reform the process for getting on the ballot.

During an Aug. 2 appearance on WCVB’s “On the Record,” MassGOP Chair Amy Carnevale said the allegations of signature fraud that disrupted or derailed three statewide Republican campaigns speak to a public policy question.

“So, I think what this calls out is really a reform of the process by which candidates can qualify for the ballots,” Carnevale said while responding to a question on if she’d be empathetic to Democratic candidates who faced similar allegations. “It’s become commonplace for not only statewide candidates, but also ballot questions, to hire signature gathering firms. So really, it’s become a process of who has the most money to hire these firms to collect signatures.”

Top Beacon Hill Democrats frustrated with an influx of ballot questions backed by special interest groups have delivered a similar message. Legislative negoti-

ators are finalizing the details of a bill requiring more frequent financial disclosures for statewide ballot question campaigns and implementing guardrails around the use of paid signature gatherers. The House’s bill, which representatives passed unanimously, would also create a legislative commission to review the whole initiative petition process, with recommendations for statutory and constitutional amendments due by the end of 2027.

Asked if she thinks candidates need too many signatures to get on the ballot, Carnevale said “I do. I do. I think our process needs reform here in Massachusetts for them to get on the ballot, and I think that’s what this calls out.” She did not specify reforms she’d like to see and a MassGOP spokesperson did not immediately respond to the News Service’s questions about how the party is seeking to change the process.

“Absolutely. So, I think we’ll have to do that in the wake of this election, obviously, we’re mid-cycle in an election, but I think after this election, it’s appropriate to take a step back and work collectively with the Democratic Party,” Carnevale said when asked if she’s pushing for serious change. “I’d be willing to work with them and with

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MassGOP Chair Amy Carnevale speaks at the MassGOP Convention at the DCU Center in Worcester on April 25, 2026.

State House News Service photo by Ella Adams

Independents to try to reform our system.”

The alleged signature fraud issues have exposed fissures

within the GOP. Last week, Republican gubernatorial candidate Brian Shortsleeve launched his first televi-

sion campaign ad titled “Voter ID.” In the 30-second spot, Shortsleeve attacks his primary oppoSee REFORM on page 10

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Sheriff’s Posse donates $50,000 to YWCA of Western Mass.

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden County Sheriff’s Posse, an organization created a year ago to support domestic violence awareness and prevention across the county, presented a $50,000 donation to the YWCA of Western Massachusetts on July 20, at Springfield Country Club.

The donation was made in memory of Eileen Monaghan, executive assistant to Sheriff Nick Cocchi, who was tragically murdered by her boyfriend in 2024. Funds were raised during the Sheriff’s Posse’s second annual golf tournament, which drew more than 250 participants and supporters.

The Hampden County Sheriff’s Posse operates under the Jay Caron Community Impact Foundation and works alongside Cocchi to provide vital resources and assistance to victims of domestic

Reform Continued from page 9

nent Mike Minogue’s response to the alleged signature fraud.

“When Mike Minogue’s preferred running mate committed election fraud, he endorsed it,” Shortsleeve said in the ad that’s airing statewide. “Defending the political insiders. Attacking those who exposed it. And now he wants you to trust him to lead Massachusetts? Give me a break.”

Two GOP lieutenant governor hopefuls were knocked off the ballot as a result of the allegedly fraudulent signatures: Anne Manning Martin and Anne Brensley, who Minogue backed. Brensley accused her signature gatherer, Joe Bronske, of collecting fraudulent signatures and causing her to fall short of the required 10,000 certified signatures. Michael Walsh, a GOP candidate for attorney general, faced similar allegations and was able to restore his ballot access.

Hours after Shortsleeve’s ad

violence and abuse. The group is dedicated to improving lives and creating positive change in the community through fundraising and outreach initiatives.

Cocchi reflected on Monaghan’s legacy, and the work of the group to help others facing violence and abuse in their relationships. “It was in Eileen’s DNA to help people in need, and I know she’d be proud to know that we are working to help others while remembering her life and legacy,” Cocchi said. “The money raised goes directly to the YWCA of Western Massachusetts because when it comes to helping people in dangerous domestic situations, they do an amazing job and save lives daily.”

Elizabeth Dineen, CEO of the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, accepted the check and spoke about the pressing need for

continued resources to help victims and survivors.

“We deeply appreciate this financial support. Thank you to the Sheriff’s Posse for this fabulous and generous donation,” Dineen said. “A special thanks to Sheriff Cocchi for his ongoing support of the YWCA’s work on behalf of survivors of domestic violence. I am so grateful for our partnership.”

The Children Who Witness Violence program provides trauma-informed counseling and supportive services for children ages 3-17 who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence or sexual assault. The program offers short-term intervention, generally 12 to 15 sessions, in English or Spanish, in a safe and nonjudgmental environment.

Dineen also noted that the donation will help expand the

YWCA’s Healthy and Empowering Relationship Education Project, which equips young people with the skills and confidence to identify and interrupt cycles of violence. Currently offered in Springfield to youth ages 12-18, the H.E.R.E. Project partners with local schools to deliver three evidence-based programs: • One Love, addressing healthy relationships and teen dating violence • Bout That Life, focusing on bystander intervention and challenges faced by BIPOC youth • Not A Number, addressing risk and protective factors for sex trafficking Gary Lavallee, the person who organized and started the Hampden County Sheriff’s Posse, said, he is proud of how the group has grown and the assistance they are enabling.

“I started the Sheriff’s Posse to make a meaningful impact on domestic violence awareness, something that is very important to Sheriff Cocchi,” Lavallee said. “With this year’s $50,000 donation in addition to last year’s $45,000 contribution, we know that we are helping other people in Eileen’s memory. I’m extremely proud of our posse members and what we can achieve when we come together for a good cause.”

The YWCA of Western Massachusetts provides critical services for individuals and families throughout the region, with locations in Holyoke, Northampton, Springfield and Westfield, as well as an 11-acre campus at 1 Clough St. in Springfield that offers shelter and comprehensive support for women and children escaping abuse.

went live, Carnevale came to Minogue’s defense.

“As Chair of the Party, it is my responsibility to stand up for and support Republican candidates, particularly when they are being unfairly attacked, misrepresented, or wronged,” Carnevale said in a statement. “In this case, fraud was perpetrated against our candidates. Brian Shortsleeve’s attempt to exploit that fraud for political advantage, while portraying himself as a champion of election integrity and disparaging fellow Republicans, is both misleading and deeply disappointing.”

Carnevale expanded on those comments while appearing on “On the Record,” saying the candidates who faced fraud allegations did “nothing wrong” and it was their signature gatherer who allegedly committed signature fraud.

“They were called out by Brian Shortsleeve in this effort. So I thought, as party chair, I do owe a service to these candidates to defend them and their integrity in qualifying for the ballot.”

Asked on “On the Record” about a path to a more unified Republican Party in wake of Shortsleeve’s ad, Carnevale said she wouldn’t characterize the dynamic as fighting and that it is “an isolated case of really calling out an ad that was disingenuous and misleading” towards some candidates.

“I think we have come a long way in the Republican Party over the last three years of coming together. I think Mike Minogue and the team that we have running for office here in Massachusetts has done a great job in terms of bringing Republicans together, really kind of closing some of those divisions we have had in the past,” Carnevale said. “And I think we’re really a united party going forward.”

Shawn Oliver, a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor who is aligned with Shortsleeve, filed the complaint that knocked Manning Martin off the ballot.

Oliver’s complaint was consolidated with a similar one Democratic Party Executive Director Adam Roof filed. More than 20

Republican State Committee members condemned the move saying in an email that it showed “willing coordination and collusion” between the Democratic Party and Oliver’s campaign, along with Shortsleeve’s camp by extension.

Minogue also condemned Oliver.

“It is shameful that anyone would oppose unifying to win, but unfathomable that anyone would join arms with bad actors to block the democratic process,” Minogue said in a statement to the Boston Herald.

Oliver and Shortsleeve have stood by the complaint and criticized both Minogue’s and MassGOP’s response to the allegations of fraud. Shortsleeve said MassGOP is asking Republicans to “ignore election fraud because it’s one of their own” and that he would not. Shortsleeve also said Minogue’s response to the issue raises “serious questions” about how he would handle potential election fraud and corruption if elected governor and called on him to “rethink the consequences of his defense of election fraud.”

In July, MassGOP passed a resolution saying it is “committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fairness in all aspects of the electoral process.” The resolution also calls for a “thorough and timely” investigation into alleged fraud or “irregularities” with the signature collection process and says the party supports “fair and transparent” resolution of the matters in court and appropriate administrative processes. It also calls on the auditor to conduct a “comprehensive review” of the state’s signature verification and certification processes to ensure “uniformity, accuracy, and adherence to best practices.”

Minogue spokesperson Elizabeth Hopkins said in a statement to the News Service that the candidate believes in “safe and fair elections” and that as governor, he would audit the system to “ensure it is one of the best in the country.”

Katie Castellani is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro reach her at kcastellani@statehousenews.com.

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‘Moonage Daydream’ brings covers of intergalactic superstars

By Trent Levakis

tlevakis@thereminder.com

NORTHAMPTON — A beloved end-of-summer music festival and community fundraiser is coming back to Northampton with an out-of-this-world theme.

“Transformance: Moonage Daydream — A Look to Space” lands at the Pines Theater at Look Park on Aug. 18 from 4:30-9:30 p.m. with a concert that benefits Northampton Public Schools.

Formally known to longtime fans as Transperformance, the single-day event invites the Pioneer Valley’s most talented musicians to step into the shoes of legendary artists and “transform” into them through cover performances from all-time bands and performers.

This year’s theme, “Moonage Daydream — A Look to Space,”

honors humans’ place in the cosmos, featuring local acts channeling intergalactic superstars, cosmic pioneers and astral icons, according to organizers.

Northampton Arts Council Arts Events Producer Steve Sanderson told Reminder Publishing that this year’s theme aligns perfectly with the historic Artemis II NASA flyby mission that took place earlier this year and opens the door to covering performances by artists who have incorporated space into their work.

“This idea came right up to the forefront immediately during and after the last space mission to the moon. Artemis II. That was so exciting earlier this year that I thought we needed to acknowledge it somehow, and ‘Moonage Daydream’ was just the best title for a theme. We could incorporate some David Bowie, Mr.

Starman himself, but we could also incorporate every other band that had anything to do with outer space or something planetary, or the moon,” said Sanderson. “Just to watch and get to be a fly on the wall and see what those astronauts saw when spinning around the dark side of the moon is just so awe-inspiring that I thought we had to keep it alive and keep going with it, and it made it the perfect year for this theme.”

The Transformance 36 lineup features 18 bands, including performances from the Ian St. George Band as David Bowie, The Friendship Band as Dark Start Orchestra, BUNNIES as Mazzy Star, King Radio as the Guardians of the Galaxy (Awesome Mixtapes), Rival Galaxies as LCD Soundsystem, Gundy

Festivalgoers sing and dance along to the live music at the 2025 Transformance music festival held at Look Park in Northampton.

The festival returns on Aug. 18 with the theme, “Transformance: Moonage Daydream — A Look to Space.”

Reminder Publishing file photo

See MOONAGE on page 13

SSO’s 83rd season to feature ‘Disco Divas,’ John Williams tribute SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Symphony Orchestra has announced its 2026-2027 concert season, its 83rd, complete with “Disco Divas,” composers and special guests, including eight performances in Springfield Symphony Hall.

The 2026-27 season will begin on Saturday, Oct. 24, at 7:30 p.m., with “Morgante Violin Concerto,” an evening of powerful storytelling through music featuring a rising international star, violinist Samuel Vargas, performing a piece written specifically for him. Deanna Tham will lead the orchestra, one of the few Asian American female conductors, who represents a new generation of artistic leadership in classical music. The violin soloist for this concert, Vargas, is being sponsored by the Dartmouth class of 1968 in memory of classmate Ron Weiss. Weiss was a long-serving member of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors who passed away in 2025.

According to Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, “Great cities are defined not only by what they build, but by what they choose to preserve. For 83 seasons, the Springfield Symphony has been part of the story of this community and this season is about writing the next chapter together. Every concert is an opportunity to experience extraordinary artistry, support our local economy, introduce someone to live orchestral

music for the very first time and celebrate the moments that bring us together. I believe the future of Springfield is brighter when the arts are at the center of it and I can’t wait to welcome our community into Symphony Hall.

The November concert matinée, Strauss’s “Four Last Songs” on Saturday, Nov. 21, at 3 p.m., will showcase music of beauty, passion and emotion, with guest conductor Luke Poeppel and Soprano soloist Emily Birsan.

Poeppel is an American-German conductor who has worked with ensembles in both the United States and Germany, bringing a global perspective to the podium.

Birsan’s voice has been described by critics as “luminous,” “radiant” and “mesmerizing.” Franz Schubert’s “Symphony #9,” often described as one of the best symphonies ever composed, will also be part of the program.

An SSO season staple, Holiday Pops will return with Jazz Up the Holidays on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 4 p.m, featuring holiday classics reimagined with a “swingin’ flair.” Well-known vocalist Paul Loren will join the Springfield Symphony Chorus and Orchestra on stage and Herb Smith will conduct. Loren is a solo recording artist and also performs with orchestras throughout the U.S. and Canada performing a variety of music genres, including American Songbook standards and music by Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin and more. He has appeared on “The Tonight Show” with

Jimmy Fallon, was personally selected by Jennifer Lopez to perform at her birthday gala in Las Vegas and has shared a stage with The Temptations, Taylor Hicks, Queen Latifah and many more.

The SSO will kick off the new year with a performance on Saturday, Jan. 23, 2027, at 3 p.m, Beethoven’s “Eroica,” featuring guest conductor Cosette Justo Valdés and pianist Spencer Myer.

Concertgoers will experience “music inspired by larger-thanlife characters, epic struggles and unforgettable victories,” as described by the SSO, with Sergey Prokofiev’s “Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Major,” “Op. 26” and “Beethoven’s Eroica.”

Next will be “Schelomo: Hebraic Rhapsody,” a 3 p.m. matinée on Saturday Feb. 20, 2027, featuring Guest Conductor Henry Kennedy and cellist Julian Schwarz. The afternoon will feature Schwarz performing with the orchestra for composer Ernest Bloch’s “Schelomo: Hebraic Rhapsody,” followed by Tchaikovsky’s beloved “Fifth Symphony.”

In March will be a highly anticipated Disco Divas Pops concert on Saturday, March 20, 2027, at 7:30 p.m, featuring powerhouse vocalists Shayna Steele, Crystal Monee Hall and Kelly LeVesque performing hits of the 70s disco era. Popular guest conductor William Waldrop will return to Symphony Hall for this performance and the SSO will mark its fifth annual Fearless Women Awards.

Favorite Choral Works will fill Symphony Hall on Saturday, April 17, 2027, at 3 p.m, with the Springfield Symphony Chorus and Orchestra performing pieces

considered by the industry to be among the most beloved choral works ever written, among them See SSO on page 13

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Rivera sworn in as first Latino fire commissioner

By Sarah Heinonen

sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — The steps of Symphony Hall were lined with American flags as firefighters, police and emergency responders milled around in their dress uniforms. Above them, an enormous Puerto Rican flag flew, held aloft by two Springfield Fire Department ladder trucks. Inside, small Puerto Rican flags were handed out to the rows of people who came to watch Miguel “Mike” Rivera be sworn in as Springfield’s first Latino fire commissioner.

Rivera is a native of Springfield, who grew up in the city’s Brightwood neighborhood. He graduated from Putnam Vocational Technical Academy and went on to join the military. After returning to Springfield, he joined the Fire Department in 2009. Rivera served on the department’s rescue and bomb squads, and led the training division, before heading up District 2. Davine said Rivera’s focus was always on training and collaboration. As the deputy chief of operations, Rivera oversaw two of the city’s fire districts, the hazmat and marine divisions and special operations.

Much was made of Rivera’s status as the first Latino commissioner. The Most Reverend Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield William Byrne delivered a blessing in Spanish and English.

“It’s always important when you’re the first in anything that you point that out because it shows the inspiration and opportunity for others to follow in your footsteps,” Mayor Domenic Sarno said. He pointed out that his administration appointed the first Black police superintendent, Lawrence “Larry” Akers, and the first Latina city clerk, Gladys Oyola-Lopez. This year, the City Council elected Tracye Whitfield to serve as the first Black woman president of the body.

Sarno said Springfield’s Police and Fire departments are the

most diverse in the state. “Our departments reflect our neighborhoods,” he said. “I’ve always picked individuals, no matter the creed, color or background ... who are best suited to lead the department and lead our city,” Sarno said, adding that he saw the same qualities in Rivera that he had seen in retired Commissioner Bernard “BJ” Calvi.

Akers said, “Being the first is a blessing, but it is also a challenge that few people truly understand.

It means walking into rooms where no one looks like you. It means knowing that some people will judge you before they meet you. It means carrying the hopes of your community, your culture and your heritage every time you put on that uniform. And it means knowing your success isn’t just your own because it’s a doorway for others.”

Akers joked, “When things get tough, and they will, always remember: you could always be getting sworn in as chief of police.”

Speaking to Rivera’s character, retired Springfield Fire Lt. Kelly Jones said, “I‘ve always appreciated that Mike had his own way of looking at things.

Even in difficult situations, he brought a positive perspective.”

He said, “What impressed me most was this: whether we were responding to serious moments, honoring a fallen brother or sister or simply talking as coworkers, Mike was always the same person. He never carried himself as though he were above anyone else, and to me that speaks volumes about his character.”

Jones said, “I understand what firefighters need in their commissioner. They need a leader they can trust, someone who listens before making decisions, someone who remains calm under pressure, someone who values the experience, ideas and opinions of the men and women who serve alongside him.”

Jones continued, “From the perspective of the citizens of Springfield, they deserve a fire

commissioner who understands that every decision ultimately affects the safety of our families, our neighborhoods, our businesses and our first responders. They deserve a leader who leads with integrity, fairness, humility and accountability. I believe Springfield is receiving that kind of leader today.”

State Sen. Adam Gomez, who grew up across the street from Rivera, recalled him playing basketball in the park. He said, “I’d catch him out there when I was a young man ... There was times when he talked to me when I struggled in my journey. He always had a positive optimistic outlook, and I want to thank you for that.” Gomez hugged Rivera and took a moment to compose himself. “Brightwood is a segregated neighborhood from the rest of the city of Springfield,” Gomez said, explaining that it is cut off from other neighborhoods by Interstate 91 and railroad tracks.

“I just want to say, Brightwood, we have come a long way.”

Gomez said, “History is not something we simply read about.

It is something we have the power to create ... history is built in the ordinary moments. It’s built in the early mornings, the late nights, the difficult decisions, the sacrifices no one sees and the commitment to serve, even when no one is watching.”

State Rep. Carlos Gonzalez said the new commissioner “just so happens to be Puerto Ricano.”

Rivera was hired because of his dedication, commitment and experience, he said. “Being Puerto Rican is just the celebration of what this city has been able to do in its great acceptance of diversity ... It is essential that our city leadership reflects the vibrant tapestry of our city.” Gonzalez urged young people to see their possibilities in Rivera’s accomplishments. He said, “Know that your heritage and your experience will only enrich our community upon your achievements.”

U.S. Rep. Richard Neal re-

Springfield Fire Commissioner Miguel “Mike” Rivera addresses the audience after being sworn in.

Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen

called the bravery showed by the fire service in all types of situations, from those who rushed to the World Trade Center in New York after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, to the six firefighters who died after becoming trapped in a Worcester cold storage warehouse in 1999, to the Springfield Fire Department’s efforts at a July fire on Morris Street that displaced 16 people.

“And for those of you who are here today from that service, how grateful we are for what you do every single day,” Neal said. “In the case of Mike Rivera and his family, there is not a moment off in the jobs that you have. You’re one phone call away from tragedy; one phone call away from the agony that a family might feel because of events that they frequently cannot control.”

Neal said a fatal fire on Adams Street led to the creation of Springfield Housing Court and many of the building code standards that create safer housing standards. Addressing Rivera, Neal extended congratulations on behalf of the United States.

Considering the number of people who attended the swearing in and the impact he has had throughout his career, Rivera said, “It’s actually overwhelming and it’s humbling. I invest in people, so a lot of these relationships are genuine, and it was nothing special. It was just me

meeting someone and being there for someone, and they’re just returning the favor now. It’s very humbling, just to feel that love and that acceptance. I’m in awe, to be honest. People that I met at the jail are here, people who I met in the military are here, people from my old neighborhood, you know, back in the North End when we were 13 years old playing basketball, came over to pay their respects. I’m just honored by the whole experience.”

With so much attention paid to Rivera’s status as the first Latino commissioner, he said it can be a “double-edged sword. I am proud of my heritage. I am proud to be the first Latino and I am extremely proud that the next generation can look to climb that ladder, to be something more. Not to be put in a box and kept in a box ... I am very humbled and honored that I can be that type of role model.”

That said, he added, “It can be a bit of a distraction. I’ve worked really hard my entire life — working at the jail, growing up in the North End, volunteering to go overseas when I was in the military — those are things that made me who I am today, prepared me for this. Sometimes you feel like people think you’re here because of one thing versus the other, but I’ve worked hard my entire life and I’m confident in what I’m going to bring to the department as the commissioner.”

New school food supplier introduces itself to community

By Sarah Heinonen

sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — While many children hula hooped and played with flying discs and drop four games near the splash pad at Forest Park, Daniel Beauchamp was hard at work. He hopped onto a specially equipped stationary bicycle and began pedaling. That movement powered the motor of a blender, turning fresh fruits and a little bit of lemon juice into a slushy puree.

Registered Dietician Sophia Papulis picked up the pitcher from the blender and poured the smoothie into a cup. Handing it to Beauchamp, she said, “It’s hard work, but you enjoy the fruits of your labor, literally.”

The smoothie bike station was set up at the Chartwells/ Home Grown Springfield Summer Splash Community Event.

Home Grown Springfield is the culinary and nutritional program of Springfield Public Schools.

The School Department recent-

ly changed its operating partner from Sodexo to Chartwells.

Because the city owns the Culinary and Nutrition Center on Cadwell Street where much of the food is made from scratch, the switch to Chartwells was a relatively simple process. Chartwells/Home Grown Springfield General Manager Andrew Stratton said Chartwells kept many of the local employees who had been working with Sodexo, although, he added, they needed to rehire about 370 people.

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 Michele E. Bourbeau Debra Ann Cournoyer David J. Frankiewicz James J. Martin Jr. Raymond Mayotte Daniel W. Sullivan Marguerite “Peggy” Switzer EAST LONGMEADOW Marilyn Lindahl Brian Raymond Lussier Stephen G. Spring Victor S. Tondera HAMPDEN Theresa M. Pottier

HOLYOKE James Angers Richard Champagne LONGMEADOW Madeline L. Paduch LUDLOW Yvonne Claire Pindell Antonio Sousa SOUTH HADLEY William L. Wohlers SPRINGFIELD Elsie A. Caldarola (Gaviglio) Alexander James Delivorias

Gary A. Freeman Mary A. Giorgi Lawrence P. Illingsworth Donald Anton Keinath Michael J.P. Mastronardi Germaine W. Murchison Linda Lappin Elizabeth O’Shea Mella Dean Jackson Singleton WILBRAHAM Ann Y. Moore Timothy John Murphy

Chartwells is focused on compliance with United States Department of Agriculture standards, said Regional Dietician Sara Patterson. She said the company has introduced some new recipes, is incorporating more local foods and expanding its diverse menu items for Springfield’s diverse population.

There are halal and kosher menus in place and accommodations can be made for anyone with a medically documented dietary requirement.

“Everything is on track to open smoothly,” Patterson said. “We want to make it a seamless transition.” Stratton said Chartwells/ Home Grown Springfield will continue to offer Breakfast in the Classroom and lunch, as well as its after school meals, Weekend Backpack and Summer Eats programs, which are designed to feed students outside of school hours.

At the event, Chartwells/ Home Grown Springfield was offering meals of chicken street tacos with black beans and pico

de gallo, and a side of grilled corn on the cob.

Home Grown Springfield sources its ingredients from several local companies, including Mi Tierra Tortillas in Springfield, Chicopee-based Sweet Babu’s Granola and One Mighty Mill in Lynn. Stratton said, “Twenty-six percent of total food costs are spent with New England farms.”

Papulis explained that Home Grown Springfield having its own culinary center has benefits for the nutrition they can offer students. “We can control the sugar and sodium and the fat because we have that facility. She said the USDA requires a variety of colors in meals because different vitamins and minerals produce those colors in food. She said Chartwells/Home Grown Springfield incorporates seven colors in its meals, she said.

Papulis said, “It’s really a full meal if kids take advantage of all the components, which we encourage.”

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EAST LONGMEADOW | AUGUST 13 - 19, 2026

Caribbean Carnival & Parade to bring colors and music

By Sarah Heinonen

sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — Get ready for vibrant colors, lively music and dancing in the street as the Springfield Caribbean Carnival & Parade returns on Saturday, Aug. 15.

The Caribbean American African Athletic Social Club is a nonprofit working to enhance the cultural, social, educational and spiritual awareness of Caribbean cultures in the Greater Springfield area since 1998. The Springfield Caribbean Carnival & Parade is the largest and most public event put on by the group.

The parade will step off at

noon from the Early Childhood Center on Catherine Street and follow State Street toward Blunt Park. Elected officials, community groups, businesses and nonprofits are expected to participate in the 1.5-mile parade Acting President and Treasurer Delva Campbell said the thing that separates the Caribbean Parade from other community parades is the colors on display.

“Every island is different,” she said of their culture and colors.

There are about 30 separate island nations and territories in the Caribbean, and the parade represents many of them. “There’s lots of colors, a lot of music and a lot of

dancing in the street,” she said.

Once the parade reaches Blunt Park, it will meet a carnival atmosphere with music, live performances, Caribbean artisans, cultural workshops, children’s activities and various Caribbean foods, as well as American fare.

The free, family-friendly festival ends at 8:30 p.m. In addition to the large Caribbean population in Western Massachusetts, the event draws people from Boston, Connecticut, New York and Florida.

Campbell said there are, “Usually 600 to 1,000 people at any given time. People come and go.” In total, between 3,000 and 4,000 people attend the event each year.

People dressed in colorful costumes representing various countries at the 2025 Caribbean Carnival and Parade.

Photo credit: caaasc.org

“We need the community to come out and support it. The only way we can make it a big thing for the day is for the community

to come out,” Campbell said.

For more details, visit caaasc.org.

People get hands on to create mural of organization’s history

By Sarah Heinonen

sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — Drive through Springfield and they are everywhere. Larger-than-life explosions of color, words and portraiture on building walls. More than art for art’s sake, the murals tell the stories of the schools, organizations and people of Springfield. Soon, another of these murals will grace the exterior wall of Work Opportunity Center at 73 Market St. With a little help from Mayor Domenic Sarno and Police Superintendent Lawrence “Larry” Akers, nearly 100 of Work Opportunity Center’s clients donned aprons and grabbed cups of paint to help create their mural. “I was surprised at the buy in. They want to tell their story, the value

SSO Continued from page 11

the Hallelujah Chorus. Members of the Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestra will also join the SSO musicians on stage for a side-by-side performance, con-

Moonage Continued from page 11

+ Magic Carpet Band as Pink Floyd with a “Dark Side of the Moon” medley, RADIO the Band performing the Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Greys as Freddie Mercury.

Sanderson said the space theme should create another great festival atmosphere. He added that people are encouraged to eat, hang out and connect during the show.

“The gaps between people are always much smaller than we think they are. We live in an age where social media and media in general are constantly trying to drive us apart because they get more reaction from us when they piss us off, so they constantly are trying to get us upset about something and the result is we feel like there’s a greater space between us, and there’s not,” he said.

“Getting people together through music, to enjoy music together, to make music together, might be the solution to fend off this spinning out of orbit that’s going on with us these days.”

First established in 1991 as “Lookstock,” Transformance serves as a crucial fundraising engine for local arts and education.

One hundred percent of organizational proceeds directly fund

of their work, how they serve the community,” said Work Opportunity Center Executive Director Mary Akers.

The mural will tell the story of Work Opportunity Center’s history, from its beginnings in West Springfield to now, serving people at four sites in the greater Springfield area. The organization works with the state Department of Developmental Services to provide about 170 people with the services they need, including day programs in health and wellness, education, life skills and social growth, and employment with roughly 30 community business partners.

Akers said Work Opportunity Center is expanding, both geographically — with an eye on moving into Chicopee and Holyoke — and in programming.

“We want to expand into an autism-only program. With autism, they need singular skills,” Akers said, explaining that the organizations would focus on teaching those clients behavioral skills more than life skills.

Common Wealth Murals has undertaken more than 100 murals — 60 in Springfield alone — in collaboration with area organizations, schools and nonprofits.

Including the Work Opportunity Center project, the organization has 10 murals in progress.

While the subject of the murals is different with each partner and with every community, Common Wealth Murals Executive Director Britt Ruhe said, “There’s the same positive energy every time.” She emphasized the importance of representation. “Most people, if they see themselves

represented at all, it’s in advertising.” Ruhe said Common Wealth Murals collaborates with their community partners to determine what they want to see in a mural.

“If not actually themselves, it’s someone they know. Someone

they can recognize.”

To learn more about Work Opportunity Center, visit wocinc.org. For more on Common Wealth Murals, visit commonwealthmurals.org.

tinuing a tradition that began on Opening Night of the SSO’s 2025-26 season. James Bagwell will serve as guest conductor for this performance.

The season will close with Movies and Memories: John Williams Night, on Saturday, May 15, 2027, at 7:30 p,m. Led by guest conductor Evan Roider,

Symphony Hall will be filled with the iconic film scores of John Williams that, according to the SSO, “has shaped the soundtrack of our lives.”

The symphony is also in the process of identifying its next music director for the organization and the upcoming season will play a key role in determin-

ing the next director. More details will be forthcoming.

Additionally, this coming season the SSO will continue its Music on the Menu series, partnering with local restaurants to promote the SSO while raising funds for the Springfield Symphony Youth Scholarship Fund. The SSO will also once again host an education

concert for students from Springfield and surrounding towns.

The SSO will also move to new office space in downtown Springfield and will host an open house on Sept. 30, 2027. More details to follow.

MassMutual and Massachusetts Cultural Council are sponsors for the 2026-27 season.

arts enrichment in Northampton Public Schools and local parent-teacher organizations. The money provides instruments, workshops and creative opportunities for students across the district. Sanderson, who works directly with the city’s musically creative youth in various capacities, said this has always been a passion of his.

“My favorite thing is to work with young bands. My favorite thing is to nurture young artists to start their own bands. I work with the music department at Northampton High all the time, and I’m constantly trying to inspire young people to go out, write a song, get a gig, play, pretend to be somebody else. Just get up and play,” Sanderson said.

He added that the event is successful because of three main ingredients: the community, the Pines Theater and the musicians who donate their time to the show. He added that he hopes to see another great turnout of people all over the valley.

“They [artists] do it for a couple of reasons, one because this is benefiting the local schools and everyone can agree that kids’ arts education is just about the most important thing that we could nurture. The other one is they love the challenge, and most artists you will find have favorite bands that they always kind of wanted to just adopt the persona

of and pretend to be them for a night,” Sanderson said. “That’s a lot of the allure for these bands, because these bands are putting in months of rehearsal. When they show up to play, sometimes you can close your eyes, and you don’t know the difference between them and the actual band

they’re transforming into.”

Tickets for the event are available for advance purchase online at zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ transformance--36. All sales are final, as ticket purchases directly support arts programming. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Per

Look Park rules, pets, coolers and outside beverages are prohibited.

Look Park charges a $10 special events vehicle entry fee for non-season pass holders.

For more information on the event or the Northampton Arts Council, visit northamptonartscouncil.org.

Common Wealth Murals volunteers hand out different colors of paint to clients from Work Opportunity Center.

Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen

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Emerson Atkin controls the Falcons throw-in.

Maya Usher uses her head to advance the ball for Wilbraham.

Taylor Bartosz receives a handshake and the game MVP award from PVSSL’s Chris Kolodziey.

After scoring the game’s first goal Brooklyn Manning (right) celebrates with Stephanie Labadorf.

Alivia LeMay looks up and passes to an open teammate.

Wilbraham’s Carson Humphries (right) vies for the ball with Taylor Rousseau of Enfield.

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The Wilbraham Falcons - 2026 PVSSL Girls “A” Division summer soccer champions.

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LEGAL NOTICES

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ARTICLES FOR SALE

TOWN OF LONGMEADOW PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Pursuant to MGL c40A Sec 11, the Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Hybrid Public Hearing on September 2, 2026, at 6:00pm at Town Offices – Greenwood Conference Room, 231 Maple Road, Longmeadow, MA 01106 for a remand of an application for site and design review for Colvest/Longmeadow, LLC, for a proposed commercial development at 916 Williams Street. The remote hearing link can be accessed from the meeting agenda. Information relating to this hearing may be inspected on the “Active Case Files” section of the Planning Board’s webpage at: www.longmeadowma.gov and with the Town Clerk (231 Maple Road, Longmeadow, MA) during normal business hours.

(August 13, 20)

NOTICE OF INTENT Town of Longmeadow

EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE

Farm table- 7ftx3ft, 1/2 inch thick, solid one piece. Serious inquiries only. 860-212-1208

In accordance with the Wetlands Protection Act & Longmeadow Wetlands Code, the Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public hearing on Weds. August 26, 2026 after 7:00 PM at 231 Maple Rd. Longmeadow, Greenwood Town Offices Bliss Conf. rm. & online at zoom.com (Meeting ID: 825 4488 8613 password:189420) for an NOI filed by M. Santos regarding work located at 400 Shaker Rd (PID 4929) for dredging their irrigation pond, performing bank stabilization work, and repairing portions of the dam. Portions of the work take place within jurisdictional resource areas.

(August 13)

The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 and via Zoom webinar: https://eastlongmeadowma.zoom.us/j/8292506 7839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVEyea 0ljsvr.1 Case SP-2026-05: Request for Amendment of existing Special Permit (SP-2024-05) for Little Caesars Pizza for the modification of operating hours at 626 North Main Street (Assessor’s Parcel ID 1-17-49) located in the Business zoning district. Applicant: John Stefanidis, 681 West Street, Ludlow, MA 01056 Information relating to applications filed with the Department of Planning & Community Development are available for public inspection at the Town Hall, 60 Center Square. To view an electronic version of case files please visit: htt ps://www.eastlongmeadowma.gov/955/ActiveCase-Files For the Board, Robert Tirrell, Clerk (August 6, August 13)

Hand tools, fishing supplies, large leaf blower, PVC pipes, heavy-duty meat slicer, barbie dolls, copper/aluminum pipe, assorted saws, many unlisted items. Call 860-749-6433 Monday-Saturday, 9a.m.-4p.m.

REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY Town of Longmeadow In accordance with the Wetlands Protection Act & Longmeadow Wetlands Code, the Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public meeting on Weds. August 26, 2026 after 7:00 PM at 231 Maple Rd. Longmeadow, Greenwood Town Offices Bliss Conf. rm. & online at Zoom.com (Meeting ID: 825 4488 8613 PW:189420) for an RDA filed by R. Plaut regarding work located at 125 Meadowbrook Rd. (PID 4069) for the removal of 1 tree within jurisdictional resource areas.

(August 13)

REQUEST FOR DETERMINATION OF APPLICABILITY Town of Longmeadow In accordance with the Wetlands Protection Act & Longmeadow Wetlands Code, the Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid public meeting on Weds. August 26, 2026 after 7:00 PM at 231 Maple Rd. Longmeadow, Greenwood Town Offices Bliss Conf. rm. & online at Zoom.com (Meeting ID: 825 4488 8613 PW:189420) for an RDA filed by S. Tremble regarding work located at 16 Overbrook Ln. (PID 4349) for the removal of 2 trees within jurisdictional resource areas.

(August 13)

EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 and via Zoom webinar: https://eastlongmeadowma.zoom.us/j/8292506 7839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVEyea 0ljsvr.1 Case SITE-2026-05: Request for Amendment of existing Site Plan Review (SITE-2025-03) for East Longmeadow Redevelopers, LLC to modify/extend Condition 5(E), at 330 Chestnut Street (Assessor’s Parcel ID 18-38-0) located in the Industrial Garden Park zoning district.

Applicant: East Longmeadow Redevelopers, LLC. 46 Center Square, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 Information relating to applications filed with the Department of Planning & Community Development are available for public inspection at the Town Hall, 60 Center Square. To view an electronic version of case files please visit: htt ps://www.eastlongmeadowma.gov/955/ActiveCase-Files For the Board, Robert Tirrell, Clerk (August 6, August 13)

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EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 and via Zoom webinar: https://eastlongmeadowma.zoom.us/j/8292506 7839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVEyea 0ljsvr.1 Case SP-2026-06: Request for Special Permit for Gatsby Golf Company LLC for operation of an indoor golf simulator and recreation facility with bar and commercially prepared food, at 45 Baldwin Street (Assessor’s Parcel ID 27-11-C) located in the industrial zoning district. Applicant: Gatsby Golf Company LLC, 45 Baldwin Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 Information relating to applications filed with the Department of Planning & Community Development are available for public inspection at the Town Hall, 60 Center Square. To view an electronic version of case files please visit: htt ps://www.eastlongmeadowma.gov/955/ActiveCase-Files For the Board, Robert Tirrell, Clerk (August 6, August 13)

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Trash Removal No matter how small Free estimates Call 413-335-5546 OLD SCHOOL WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING Gutter Cleaning $95 any home; Power washing starts at $99; Window Cleaning starting at $75; Roof Moss Control $99.

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Benton Drive Associates LLC, to Manchem LLC, 270 Benton Drive, Dan D. Sadowski and Nicole A. Sadowski to Michael Gunn and Beatriz Gunn, 19 Orpheum Ave., Dianne M. Evans to Aaron Hayes, 24 Mill Road, James Pikoulas to Oranous Ghasemi and Arash Madahian, 94 Porter Road, Lucy Tarpinian and Lucy L. Tarpinian to Ashton L. Allsop and Samuel D. Romanko, 150 Porter Road, Sabeena Dave and Samir N. Dave, estate, to Ariana Mateus and Joey Mateus, 31 Melwood Ave., Wayne T. Ralph and Paula A. Ralph to Christopher Tarbell, 29 Crescent Hill,

$1,025,000. $315,000. $666,500. $380,000. $365,000. $385,000. $370,000.

LONGMEADOW

Christopher Kempf to Mark Peter Kraver, trustee, Melissa Kraver, trustee, and Kraver Family Revocable Living Trust, trustee of, 158 Wenonah Road, $495,000.

Daniel C. Petersen to Daniel Poisson and Olivia Poisson, 107 Viscount Road, $734,000.

Ellen Perell and Ellen D. Perell to Sivaram Subramonia Iyer and Subramony Subramonia Iyer, 245 Brookwood Dri ve, $485,000.

Gina M. Trapani to Allison N. Lyman and Matthew N. Lyman, 125 Field Road, $470,000.

Karen A. McCoy to Mark Ayoub and Ashley Ayoub, 103 Prynnwood Road, $890,000.

LUDLOW

Chris Goncalves, Cristina Goncalves, Heather Goncalves and Antonio Goncalves to Orlando Ramos, 318-320 Winsor St., $320,000.

Etta Bailey and Preston Bailey to Andres Lopez Guerrero, 7 Maple St., $370,000.

Francisco Leitao, trustee, and Francisco Leitao Revocable Indenture of Trust of, trustee of, to Fatima Afonso-Mendes and Jack Mendes, 380 Chapin St., $200,000.

James J. Garrison to Manish Kumar Sharma, 84 Chapin Greene Drive, # 84, $350,000.

Jeremy R. Daviau and April L. Wolk to Patric Boyle, 152 Kendall St., $330,000.

Jose D. Fernandes and Gina Maria Fernandes to Carmina D. Fernandes and Adilson Alves Pereira, Kirkland Ave.,

528 North Main Street • East Longmeadow

Joseph’s Handyman Company. Carpentry, remodeling, interior/exterior painting, floors, tile, stairs, drywall, cabinets, plumbing. Professional artist. Small jobs ok. Home improvement. Projects designed for your needs. Since 1985. Call Joe, 413-364-7038

Par 4, Joseph P. Harrington and Darcy A. Harrington to John Collins and Nicole Jaworski, 25 Crest St., Lori A. Norton to Janel Theresa Fidalgo, 108 Oak Knolls Circle,

SPRINGFIELD

145 Main St. Property LLC, to Churchill MRA SPV REO LLC, 145-151 Main St., Alden Baptist Church to Sons of Springfield, 19 Stebbins St., Berkshire Springfield LLC, to Jiang 1688 LLC, 309 Berkshire Ave., Brent E. Anderson and Julie A. Anderson to Margaret Annis, 217 Ellsworth Ave., Calissa B. Pereira and Deon A. Vann to Vincent Asemota, 115 Pasadena St., Carla R. Pierce to Willy Etienne and Rood Ling Noel Etienne, 68 Deepfield Road, Carrasquillo Management LLC, to Dayne A. Simpson, 485-487 Bay St., Collin T. Reid and Ryleigh Reid to Dan Sadowski and Nicole Rescia-Sadowski, 186 Belvidere St., Cynthia White to Arthur Deandre White, 645 Bay St., Cynthia White to Latoya White and Cynthia White, life estate,17 Clark St., Daviau & Robert Properties LLC, to 242 Fort Pleasant LLC, 242 Fort Pleasant Ave., David A. Doane and Alicia Doane to Dakota Scranton and Natalie Loranger, 20 Keddy St., De Jesus Property Group LLC, to Marimer Andrea Molina Landron, 93 Thompson St., Donald R. Socha to Jai Siyaram LLC, 560 Page Boulevard, Eva A. Bellucci to Kianni Julia, 1451-1453 Carew St., HWPML Properties LLC, to Trey Cavaan, 48-50 Acushnet Ave., James Miranda to Omid Madani and Samira Faegh, 37-39 Wilmont St., Jayza M. Jimenez to Pham Thao Vy Vo, 28 Bither St.,

WILBRAHAM

Debra Dollar to Nathan Eckhoff and Caitlin Eckhoff, 459 Mountain Road, Tracy A. Pannier and Richard D. Hammond Jr., to John Milbier and Denise Milbier, 56 Cherry Drive,

$490,000. $402,500. $462,000. $994,000. $525,000. $500,000. $300,000. $274,900. $375,000. $400,000. $385,000. $100. $100. $1,100,000. $253,000. $395,000. $885,000. $433,000. $430,000. $480,000. $305,000. $625,000. $415,000.

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Residential/Commercial

Fully Insured · Free Estimates

413-351-1147 LANDSCAPING

GREEN TEAM LANDSCAPING 413-563-4663 Spring Clean-ups, Mowing Service, Bobcat Service, Patio and Retaining Wall Installation; All Other Landscaping Needs.

VERY COMPETITIVE PRICING!

Panzetti

LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION Landscape excavation, grading, lawn installation, seeding and hydroseeding, overgrown shrub and tree removal, mini-excavator and skid steer services.

Call 413-478-0522 ROZELL'S LANDSCAPING & BOBCAT SERVICE *Overgrown property? *Excavator Services *Extreme Brush Cutting! *Shrub, Stump, Tree Removal *Lawn/Arborvitae Installed *Loam, Stone, Mulch, Sand *Storm Clean-up *Small Demo *Insured JOSH ROZELL 413-636-5957

MASONRY / CONCRETE Baker Mason Contractors, Inc. Chimneys, concrete & paver walkways, patios, stonework, steps, Bilco hatchway doors installed. Foundation repairs & cellar walls repaired. Licensed & insured. 40+ years experience. 413-599-0015; 413-5693172

MASONRY / CONCRETE ABC MASONRY & BASEMENT WATERPROOFING All brick, block concrete; concrete steps & walk-ways; new paver walk-ways; paver patios & retaining walls. Chimneys, foundations, hatchways, new basement windows installed and repaired. New hatchway & bulkhead doors. Sump pumps and french drain systems installed. Foundations pointed and stuccoed.

Free estimates (413)569-1611 or (413)374-5377

TMR MASON CONTRACTOR All types of masonry and concrete: brick, block, stone stucco. Chimney repairs, foundation repairs, bulkheads, concrete sidewalks, stairs and patios, Fully licensed/ insured.

Todd: 413-575-3839

MISCELLANEOUS DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK, BOAT, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1888-305-7286 today!

NO MORE CLEANING OUT GUTTERS! Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a non-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty.

Call today 1-855-925-2643 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate.

Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work.

Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 877-461-0698. Have zip code ready when calling!

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1877-543-9189 Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author`s guide 1-877729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No longterm contract, no hidden fees free activation.

All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866 DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB games! Choice Pkg $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devic-es. HBO Max included for 3 mos w/Choice Package or higher. No contract or hidden fees! Restrictions apply. IVS 866-859-0405 End your tax worries today. Let us make your tax problem our priority. Scared, stuck with high tax amounts? Our A+ tax professionals can help. Free consultation. Priority Tax 855959-2267

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MISCELLANEOUS

MISCELLANEOUS

Home Break-ins take less than 60 seconds.

Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-877-9070316

Water damage cleanup & restoration: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family & home value! 877-318-6832. Have zip code ready!

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans.

Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930

PAINTING & WALLPAPERING

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends soon. 844-501-3208 MobileHelp, America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away.

For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936 Need cash quickly? We buy houses in any condition. Get a fair cash offer within 24 hours!

Call today. Liz Buys Houses: 833-359-4707 No more cleaning gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter backed by no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty. Call 1-833-610-1936 to schedule FREE inspection/estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Military & Seniors get additional 10% off. Limited time. Restrictions apply, see rep for details.

TANK REMOVAL UNDERGROUND ABOVEGROUND BASEMENT TANK REMOVAL Oil removal available. Permits obtained. Fully licensed/insured. Ground Breakers 566-2250; 530-2266

VACATION RENTAL WESLEY FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare!

Free Consultations. Over 450 positive reviews.

Call 877-621-7517

CHET & SON PAINTING

Interior and exterior painting, wallpaper, removal. Free estimates. Insured. Reliable.

413-772-9819 PRIME PAINTING Fully insured, interior/exterior, carpentry, drywall, cabinet finishing and detailing. References upon request. Free estimates. 594-4479

WANTED Always buying antiques watches jewelry gold coins art military signs posters cameras toys video games action figures Star Wars vintage electronics amplifiers receivers' radios HAM equipment speakers' musical instruments guitars saxophones horns amplifiers sports memorabilia clocks plus more one item or entire estates. 413-206-8688

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Interior, exterior, wallpapering, minor carpentry.

Low, low prices. Free estimates. Steve 413310-5099; 860-741-5588

ROOFING NEW ROOFS-REPAIRS-CLEANING Siding and windows, decks built and repaired.

Fully insured. MA Lic #CSFA106255. David Germaine 413-250-3263

WANTED TO BUY

TAG SALES

Peace of mind & early detection - Now more than ever, it’s important to get screened for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life Line Screening is simple & painless. 833-970-4172

Wanted! CASH for: ANYTHING OF SIGNIFICANT VALUE! Machinist, Specialty, and Mechanic Tools, Electronics/Audio, Sports Cards, Vintage Toys, Antiques/Collectibles, much more!

Call/Text Sam 413-531-5381

ESTATE SALE SOUTH HADLEY 405 Alvord Place Community Thurs/Fri/Sat, August 13th/14th/15th, 9a.m.-4p.m.

Recliner Lift Chair/Patio Set/Furniture Collectibles

Pest control: Protect your home from pests safely. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders & more. Locally owned & affordable.

For service or inspection today! 877-916-2103 Have zip code ready!

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a free 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator.

It’s a power move.

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control.

Free quote. Ask about first application special!

877-484-8583

PLACE YOUR TAG SALE AD IN THE REMINDER AND GET 3 TAG SALE LAWN SIGNS!

TAG SALE AD

Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network!

For more information www.communitypublishers.com/category/all-products SunSetter. America's Number One Awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis.

Up to 10-year limited warranty. Save $350 today! 855-914-1148

Can be picked up at our East Longmeadow or Westfield offices.

CLASSIFIED AD INCLUDES UP TO 15 WORDS; 75¢ EACH ADDITIONAL WORD.

Special

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

PLACE YOUR LEGAL ADS WITH REMINDER PUBLISHING & THE WESTFIELD NEWS! AFFORDABLE RATES AND PERSONAL SERVICE!

SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLE “ODD DUCKS”

EAST LONGMEADOW | AUGUST 13 - 19, 2026

TO PLACE YOUR LEGAL AD CALL:

HATFIELD

Roxanne: 413.213.6178

HADLEY

sspada@thereminder.com EAST LONGMEADOW, ENFIELD/SOMERS, AND SPRINGFIELD REMINDERS

Evan: 413.213.6170

GRANBY

SOUTH HADLEY

SOUTHAMPTON

NT

GO

HOLYOKE

ME

BLANDFORD

OTIS

PTON

WESTHAM

GTON

MO

RY

LUDLOW CHICOPEE

RUSSELL

TOLLAND

emarcyoniak@thereminder.com FOR: HAMPSHIRE REMINDER AND CHICOPEE-HOLYOKE HERALD

HUNTIN

CHESTER

NORTHAMPTON

EASTHAM

Shannon: 413.735.1660

PTON

rmiller-longtin@thereminder.com FOR: AGAWAM REMINDER, THE PENNYSAVER, AND WESTFIELD NEWS

AMHERST

WESTFIELD

GRANVILLE

MASSACHUSETTS

SOUTHWICK

WEST SPRINGFIELD

WILBRAHAM SPRINGFIELD

AGAWAM LONGMEADOW

CONNECTICUT

EAST LONGMEADOW

HAMPDEN

SOMERS ENFIELD

443B SHAKER ROAD • EAST LONGMEADOW, MA • 413.525.6661 (DENSLOW ROAD ENTRANCE)

181 ROOT ROAD • WESTFIELD, MA • 413.562.4181

CARRIERS & PART-TIME SUBS NEEDED! WE ARE OFFERING A BONUS INCENTIVE TO NEW CARRIERS AFTER COMPLETING 4 WEEKS!

EAST LONGMEADOW - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY

132 Papers: St. Joseph Dr., Wisteria Ln., Pembroke Terr., Rockingham Cir., Dartmouth Ln., Partial - Prospect St., Chestnut St., Somers Rd. 103 Papers: Gerrard Ave., Holy Cross Cir., Kingston Ave., Lombard Ave., Nelson St., Roderick Ave., Partial- N. Main St. 128 Papers: Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only) 58 Papers: Anne St., Helen Cir., John St., Vadnais St., Converse Cir. 131 Papers: Orchard Rd., Pine Grove Cir., Partial-Parker St., Porter Rd., Allen St. 135 Papers: Baymor Dr., Edmund St., Fifth St., Glendale Rd., Knollwood Dr.

68 Papers: Woolworth St., Woodside Dr., Blokland Dr., Wilkin Dr., Grassy Gutter Rd. 57 Papers: Park Dr., Brittany Rd., Normandy Rd., Partial-E. Greenwich Rd., Colony Rd. 149 Papers: Prynne Ridge Rd., Wyndward Rd., Wildwood Glen, Maplewood St., Partial-Maple Rd. 158 Papers: Burbank Rd., Farmington Rd., Ellington Rd., Oakwood Rd., Partial-Converse St. 201 Papers: Dover Rd., Birchwood Ave., Benedict Ter., Roseland Ter., Colony Rd. 61 Papers: Magnolia Cir., Primrose Dr., Merriweather Dr., Vanguard Ln., Ridge Rd. 230 Papers: Blueberry Hill Rd., Concord Rd., Green Willow Dr., Tanglewood Dr., Redfern Dr. 80 Papers: Chandler Ave., Partial - Longmeadow St. 108 Papers: Birnie Rd., Brookside Dr., Crescent Rd., Longview Dr., Fairhill Dr., Partial - Longmeadow St.

LONGMEADOW - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY

WILBRAHAM - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY

73 Papers: Williamsburg Dr., Eunice Dr., Tabor Crossing, Morgan Ridge, Burns Meadow, Churchill Dr., Partial - Converse St. 85 Papers: Andover Rd., Ashford Rd., Cranwell Ln., Deerfield Ave., Willow Cir., Williston Dr., Willow Brook Rd., Partial - Frank Smith Rd. 146 Papers: Albemarle Rd., Arcadia St., Barclay St., Chiswick St., Fairway Dr., Franklin Rd., Lincoln Pk., Whitmun Rd., Woodmont Rd. 95 Papers: Brookwood Dr., Kenmore Dr., Knollwood Dr., Partial - Shaker Rd. 97 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. 155 Papers: Birch Rd., Yarmouth St., King Philip Dr., Sheffield Ave., Partial-Wolf Swamp Rd. 105 Papers: Hopkins Pl., Hawthorn St., Fairfield Ter., Laurel Ln., Partial-Laurel St.

228 Papers: Echo Hill Rd., Highmoor Dr., Meeting House Ln., Rice Dr., Ridge Rd., Highridge Rd., Hitching Post Ln., Partial - Mountain Rd., Monson Rd., Tinkham Rd., Main St.

Call Holly @

413.788.1316

443B SHAKER ROAD, EAST LONGMEADOW, MA · 181 ROOT ROAD, WESTFIELD, MA

AUGUST 13 - 19, 2026 | EAST LONGMEADOW

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THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS

FRESH START FOR YOUR HOME

BATH & SHOWER

BEAT THE FALL RUSH SALE!

TAKE AN ADDITIONAL...

NO

PAYMENTS DEPOSIT INTEREST

!

S U PL P

FOR 12 MONTHS!

S LU

!

FREE

SHOWER DOOR! AFTER!

YANKEE HOME’S NEVER CATTYWAMPUS GUARANTEE DONE RIGHT THE 1ST TIME ENDLESS STYLE OPTIONS IN-HOUSE PLUMBERS DONE IN AS LITTLE AS 1-DAY A+ RATED WITH THE BBB “I have never seen anyone work as fast and as hard as this group. They left everything clean as a whistle and made my new shower look as if it has always been a part of our home. Do not hesitate have Yankee Home to work for you!!! A+++ job!”

–Carla R.

BEFORE

ENDS 8/31/26

CALL NOW: 888-888-8888 413-340-3531

Offer expires 08/31/26. Valid on qualifying purchases only. Promotional items apply only to applicable products: free shower door applies to standard models with qualifying bath or shower purchases; free triple pane upgrade applies to qualifying window purchases; free gutters apply to the front of the home only with qualifying roofing or siding purchases and may not exceed 9% of the retail price. Valid on new orders only; not valid on prior sales or estimates. Promotional offers are available only during the initial in-home consultation with a Yankee Home representative. Offers cannot be combined with other promotions or discounts. Financing offer is for 12 months with no deposit, no payments, and no interest for qualified buyers. Financing is subject to third-party credit approval; not all applicants will qualify. If not paid in full within the promotional period, interest may be charged from the purchase date. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Calls and communications with Yankee Home may be recorded for quality and training purposes. MA Lic. #160584 | CT Lic. #HIC.0673924 | NH Lic. #611475.