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Puppolo secures another term after primary win IN THIS
EDITION
By Dennis Hackett and Sarah Heinonen
dhackett@thereminder.com and sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — State Rep. Angelo Puppolo will remain in his seat in the 12th Hampden district after defeating challenger Michael Lachenmeyer in the Democratic primary on Sept. 1. With the victory, Puppolo will continue to serve East Longmeadow, Monson, Springfield and Wilbraham. Puppolo defeated Lachenmeyer with an unofficial tally of 4,136-2,304. Puppolo won each town except for Monson, where Lachenmeyer won with a 222-213 count. The results in East Longmeadow, Springfield and Wilbraham were 379-204; 2,109-950; and 1,435-928, respectively. At a small gathering at Nathan Bill’s Bar & Restaurant, Puppolo said he was “overwhelmed and elated” with the results. “I’m humbled at the support and confidence that the voters continue to have in me. I think the message that we have, the hard work that I do each and every day, delivering on constituent services, See PRIMARY on page 5
EAST LONGMEADOW
Brothers become local business owners A pair of brothers from East Longmeadow are owners of their own gym.
Page 6
WILBRAHAM
Art League to host open house The Wilbraham Art League is hosting an open house on Sept. 8
Page 8
LONGMEADOW
District proposes policy manual changes The School Committee discussed policy changes surrounding student discipline and medication.
State Rep. Angelo Puppolo (right) fist bumps Springfield City Councilor Gerry Martin after securing another term.
Page 9
Reminder Publishing photo by Dennis Hackett
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THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS
New, delicious bites coming to the Big E in 2026 By Dennis Hackett
dhackett@thereminder.com
WEST SPRINGFIELD — With just a few weeks remaining until the Big E opens its doors for the 2026 season on Sept. 18, the fair hosted its annual media food preview on Aug. 27. As always, local vendors brought their latest concoctions for the media to taste test ahead of the fair. Alongside Executive Editor Chris Maza, fellow Managing Editor Ryan Feyre and Staff Writer Tyler Garnet, we taste tested everything they offered. Big E Bakery As always, the Big E Bakery brought their cream puffs, but with a new twist this year. In recent years, the bakery has experimented with cookies and cream and espresso cream puffs but this year was the big one for me, a peanut butter cream puff topped with a marshmallow fluff. This in my opinion was the best tasting cream puff I have had at the Big E; I’m a sucker for anything peanut butter so this was an automatic hit for me. However, it is extremely messy, and I would recommend grabbing a fork and plenty of napkins. Chris said he was also a fan but noted that his typical tactic for eating the cream puff doesn’t work with the marshmallow sauce. “The bakery does it again. So many times, peanut butter-flavored foods carry the peanut butter heaviness or stickiness. The filling packed the peanut butter flavor in while the consistency stayed light and airy,” he said. “There’s still plenty of sticky in this one, though, in the form of the marshmallow drizzle over the top. While adding the trademark Fluff sweetness to the treat, it does make my ‘smush and twist’ tactic for eating the cream puff a much messier affair. The best bet for this one is either embracing
the mess or finding a fork!” Dolly’s Honky Tonk Over at Dolly’s Honky Tonk, attendees will have plenty of choices of cheese dogs to pick from. Located on Industrial Avenue, people will have the choice of a chili cheese dog, a classic cheddar cheese dog and a pulled pork cheese dog. Tyler was a big fan of the chili cheese dog. “The chili cheese dog got me excited for fall. The chili served as a warm and comforting bite, and the hot dog was a perfect vessel and partner for a delicious handheld bite,” he said. Chris opted for the pulled pork cheese dog. “What’s better than a hot dog? A hot dog topped with more meat and cheese! The Dolly’s Dog with pulled pork would certainly be a belly-filler and I would not recommend getting right on their mechanical bull after eating one of these. But if you’re looking for something you can eat on the go and will definitely satisfy your hunger, this high-quality dog topped with tender pork and melted cheese definitely fits the bill,” he said. E.B.’s Restaurant E.B.’s Restaurant, which will be located at the Food Court, is bringing a fried turkey dinner to the fair this year. This fried concoction is turkey, craisins and stuffing, rolled in panko crumbs, fried and topped with turkey gravy, served with a side of cranberry sauce. I was a big fan of the dinner and was amazed with what they were able to stuff into a fried ball. It really was Thanksgiving dinner in a single bite, and I will return for more when I make my trip to the Big E this year. While I am not the biggest fan of cranberry sauce, I thought the combination of turkey, stuffing and the craisins, along with the gravy
Top row, from left: A close up with the new peanut butter cream puff. V-One Vodka’s new Late Checkout seltzer. The fried turkey dinner from E.B.’s Restaurant. Bottom row, from left: The birria bomb from Macho Taco. The maple bacon and candied jalapeno sliders from The Paddock. The Hush Puppy Skewers from NOLA Cajun Kitchen & Raw Bar.
Reminder Publishing photos by Chris Maza, Tyler Garnet and Dennis Hackett
was excellent. Chris said the meal was balanced. “It’s Thanksgiving dinner packed into a deep-fried ball. The stuffing in some bites overtakes the flavor of the ground turkey and is a bit salty for my taste, but the tart cranberry sauce creates a nice balance,” he said. Ferrindino Maple Over at Ferrindino Maple, which will be located at the Better Living Center, they were sampling their maple creemee bacon waffle, which is their maple creemee soft serve topped with a
toasted Belgian waffle, then finished with maple bacon pieces and drizzled in maple syrup. Ryan said that this was his favorite thing he tried. “I thought this would be too sweet, but honestly the smoky bacon flavor is welcome contrast to the sugary storm of Maple Creemee and maple syrup. It’s the inverse of how you should eat your meals. By the time you get to the caramelized Belgian Waffle, you’ve essentially hit your calorie mark for the day. It’s devilishly good, and as a waffle lover, probably my pick of event,” he said. Chris said it was a sweet treat that eats like a hearty breakfast. “The classic creamy ice cream and maple drizzle you’ve come to love from Ferrendino Maple now comes on top of a Belgian waffle, topped with bacon for good measure. The bacon adds that little bit of savory to cut through all the sweetness and complexity. They don’t skimp on anything with this one, so bring your appetite (or a friend) to tackle this one,” he said. Harpoon Beer Hall Harpoon Beer Hall, which will be located on New England Avenue, offered a Maple Bourbon Bacon Corned Beef Sandwich. The sandwich came smoked on rye, topped with a maple bourbon glaze, candied bacon and powdered sugar. If you’re looking for a combination of sweet and savory, this may be the pick for you. Alongside the traditional corned beef flavor, there is a pleasant burst of sugar biting into the sandwich. I would consider it a steady, safe pick if you don’t want to go too crazy but want something that represents the best of both worlds. K’s Japanese Restaurant K’s Japanese Restaurant is making its debut at the Big E this year and will be located at the Food Court on East Road. Hearkening back to a push pop ice cream, K’s is offering sushi in a push up tube with a side of soy sauce. In terms of the sushi,
they offer spicy tuna, tuna with avocado and topped with shrimp. While I did not give this a try, I have to say it may be the most convenient, hands-free item you can get walking around the fair. Tyler called it one of the most interesting food items he has ever seen at the Big E. “The push-up sushi contains multiple pieces of sushi inside of a tube. Outside of the tube is also a smaller tube of soy sauce. When you are ready to eat, you pop off the plastic lid, dump some soy sauce in if you choose and use the tube of soy sauce to slowly push the sushi to the top of the tube. This makes it easy to eat while at the fair and no chopsticks are needed. Besides the entertaining process of eating a piece of sushi, it also tasted delicious,” he said. Macho Taco Macho Taco is bringing a birria bomb to the Big E this year, and they will be located on East Road. The birria bomb is a deepfried ball of rice, slow-simmered shredded birria beef and nacho cheese coated with Hot Cheeto dust and served with a birria broth for dipping. This was the first thing I tried, and nothing came close to topping it. I always have an eye on what Macho Taco is going to bring after being blown away by their birria tacos a few years ago. The combination of the fried rice, nacho cheese and a Hot Cheeto dust coating is just unbeatable. Tyler also pointed out that there is an incredible cheese pull when pulling the ball apart. Moolicious Moolicious, located on West Road and Springfield Road this year, is bringing a new ice cream concoction in the campfire on a stick. The campfire on a stick is two graham crackers that are piled with marshmallows and torched until they are golden and gooey. Finally, the smore is topped with vanilla ice cream before it is rolled into a warm chocolate. Chris was the lone member of See BIG E on page 13
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For ages 2-5.
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. Adult programs: • Board Game Night for Adults — Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 5:30 p.m. Ages 16 and up. Teen programs: • Paws & Pencils — Tuesday Sept. 8, at 2:30 p.m. • Teen Fall Crafternoons — Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. beginning on Sept. 10. • Teen Spot — Fridays from 2-4 p.m. Pathways for Parents programs: • Creative Kids & Caregivers — Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 10 a.m. for ages 3 and up. • Playful by Nature — Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 10 a.m. For ages 3-5. • Farmyard Friends — Thursday, Sept. 10, at 10 a.m. for ages birth to 3. • Little Sprouts — Friday, Sept. 11, from 9:45-10:30 a.m. For ages birth to 2. • Grow Play Learn — Friday, Sept. 11, from 10:45-11:30 a.m.
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. • September Food Drive — Items will be collected in the Pleasant View Senior Center parking lot, 328 North Main St. in East Longmeadow, from 10 a.m. to noon on these Fridays in September. Breakfast donations including cereal, oatmeal, boxed milk, pancake mix, breakfast bars, tea and coffee will be accepted on Friday, Sept. 11. • Tech Talk — Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 12:45 p.m. Bring your device and questions. • Free Line Dancing Event — Friday, Sept. 11, from 1-3 p.m. Visit the Senior Center for an afternoon of line dancing. No experience needed. Light refreshments and a door prize giveaway will be included.
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. • Infinnite Hair by Katie — Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 9 a.m. to noon by appointment. • Lobby Learning: The Wellington — Thursday, Sept. 10. • Snuggles & Smiles: A Visit from Cloverbrook Farm Baby Goats — Thursday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. This event is scheduled to take place outside but will move inside if it rains. • Line Dancing with Mikki —
• • •
Thursdays, 2:15-3:15 p.m. Cost is $5 per class, paid directly to the instructor. Seamstress visit — Friday, Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon. Memory Café: — Drumming with Jason — Friday, Sept. 4, at 10:15 a.m. “African Drumming” with Jason — Fridays from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM New 12-week session: Sept. 11 to Dec. 11 (no class on Oct. 30 NS Nov. 27) Cost is $70 for the 12-week session if paid in full, or $7 per class for dropins.
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LONGMEADOW RICHARD SALTER STORRS LIBRARY
The following events take place at the Richard Salter Storrs Library, 593 Longmeadow St. For more information or to register for programs, call 413-565-4181, or head to longmeadowlibrary.org. The library is closed Sept. 5-7 for Labor Day. All ages programs: • September Art Exhibit: Maggie Hodges — Tuesday, Sept. 1 through Monday, Sept. 28. Youth programs: • Grow Play Learn (ages birth to 5 years) — Wednesday, Sept. 9, 9:30-10:30 a.m. • Tiny Tales — Thursday, Sept. 10, 9:30-10:30 a.m. • Legos at the Library (for kindergarten and up) — Thursday, Sept. 10, 3:30-4:15 p.m. • Little Listeners (ages 2-5 years) — Friday, Sept. 11, 9:30-10 a.m. • More Than Mom’s Drop in Playgroup — Saturday, Sept. 12, 9:15-10:15 a.m. Adult programs: • Loosely Bound Book Club — Tuesday, Sept. 8, 1:30-2:30 p.m. This month’s selection:
• • • • •
“Twice” by Mitch Albom Tech Tuesdays: Tuesday, Sept. 8, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Fiber Arts Feed Bag Tote Bag Making — Tuesday, Sept. 8, 6-7:45 p.m. LHS Presents: “The Franklin Stove: an Unintended American Revolution” — Tuesday, Sept. 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Raising Capable Problem Solvers — Tuesday, Sept. 8, 7-8 p.m. Library Virtual Speakers: Writing the Nightmare: A Ship Called Sickness and One Unforgettable Space Crew with Daniel Kraus — Tuesday, Sept. 8, 7-9 p.m. Music Appreciation with Rob Humberston — Wednesday, Sept. 9, 1-2:30 p.m. Weekly Writers Group — Thursday, Sept. 10, 9:30-11 a.m. Bocce on the Lawn — Thursday, Sept. 10, 11 a.m. to noon. The Older and Wiser Driver w/ AAA Northeast — Thursday, Sept. 10, 1-2 p.m. Storrs Stitchers (Drop-In) — Friday, Sept. 11, 10-11:30 a.m.
LONGMEADOW ADULT CENTER
The following programs are organized by the Longmeadow Adult Center, located at 211 Maple Road. For more information or to sign up for programs, call 413-565-4160 option 1. • Enter Your Wellness Era — Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 1:30–3 p.m. Join East Village Place and trusted local healthcare professionals for an engaging afternoon of conversation, practical guidance and helpful community resources. • Ambush in Dealey Plaza and Two Oswalds — Tuesday, Sept.
•
8, at 6 p.m. All Power Derives from the People: The Continental Congress/ Philadelphia with historian Robert Abel — Wednesday, Sept. 9, at 6 p.m.
WILBRAHAM WILBRAHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
The following programs take place at the Wilbraham Public Library, located at 25 Crane Park Drive. For more information or to sign up for programs, head to wilbrahamlibrary. org or call 413-596-6141. The library will be closed Monday, Sept. 7, for Labor Day. • Watercolor Class with Creative Roots Studio — Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM • LegoClub — Wednesday, Sept. 9, from 4-6 p.m. • Pathways for Parents: Yoga — Thursday, Sept. 10, from 1010:45 a.m. • Introduction to the Trial Court Law Libraries — Thursday, Sept. 10, from 3-4 p.m. • Pathways for Parents: Music and Movement — Friday, Sept. 11, from 10:30-11:15 a.m.
ST. CECILIA CATHOLIC WOMEN’S CLUB MEETING
The St. Cecilia Catholic Women’s Club will kick off a new club year with an ice cream social at its annual membership tea on Tuesday, Sept. 8. All women of the parish are invited to come, enjoy a sweet treat and learn more about the St. Cecilia Women’s Club. The club will also honor past presidents and celebrate members marking significant club anniversaries. Liturgy will begin at 5:30 p.m. with the ice cream social immediately following.
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LYA offers Jewish New Year celebrations LONGMEADOW — Join LYA for the High Holidays that will include inspiring traditional services with meaning and melody. LYA will hold Rosh Hashana services on Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13, at 9 a.m. Shofar blowing will take place at 11 a.m. on Sunday only. On Yom Kippur, Sunday, Sept. 20, Kol Nidrei will begin at 6:30 p.m. On Monday, Sept.
Primary
Continued from page 1
going to Boston, fighting to make sure we bring back not only every dollar, but to make sure that our area is represented in policy, represented on issues and really having a seat at the table,” he said. Puppolo added that “there is no substitute for experience.” “In these uncertain times, we need strong, consistent leadership that knows how to get the job done and can deliver real results,” he said. “The big victory that we had across the district I think speaks volumes of the work that I continue to do.” He also highlighted some of his highest priorities in both in the coming session now that he has secured reelection. “Constituent services is going to be a hallmark, it’s going to continue to be my hallmark, I continue to deliver for my constituents, but I think in terms of looking towards budget – we’ve got a lot of uncertainties with the budget – we’ve gotta make sure we shore that up, we’ve gotta do more for education, we’ve gotta do more for clean, green energy, but we’re not done yet with this session,” he said.
21, Yom Kippur services will begin at 9 a.m. The closing service of the day will begin at 5:45 p.m. with a breakfast following Yom Kippur’s ending. LYA is open to all members of the community regardless of affiliation. Come and join our warm and friendly atmosphere. There is no charge to attend. A special Children’s Program will be held at 10 a.m. on Rosh
Hashana and Yom Kippur. The Children’s Program will include games, activities and snack. The Children’s Program is sponsored through a grant from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. Services will be held at LYA, 1148 Converse St. For more information please call Rabbi Chaim Kosofsky at 413-567-8665 ext.17.
With the work still ongoing, this session has bills in conference committee, including an economic development bill, a healthcare bill and a supplemental budget. About 50 people gathered at Christopher’s Tavern to support Lachenmeyer. Contingents came from several organizations the candidate has worked with, including Pioneer Valley Democratic Socialists of America and Neighbor to Neighbor. With less than an hour to go before the polls closed, Lachenmeyer said he was not nervous. “All the work is done,” he said of campaigning. Sasha Morsmith is an organizer with Pioneer Valley Democratic Socialists of America, which endorsed Lachenmeyer. Volunteers from the organization knocked on more than 2,000 doors in support of the candidate. She said the general impression from residents was that they felt that the Democratic party at all levels have put forth more centrist candidates in the past few years. She specifically mentioned former President Joe Biden, 2024 presidential candidate Kamala Harris, and more locally, Puppolo. “People are seeing that centrist solutions lead back to Trump,” she said. “I’m so impressed with how dedicated Michael is,” said Mor-
smith. “When he shows up ... he’s not just there to say hi to everybody. He takes on a volunteer role.” She said he is an example of “a new form of leadership.” Lachenmeyer’s campaign manager, Joseph Bonilla, also spoke about his style of leadership. “He’s so passionate and calls out injustice. That’s why I joined his campaign.” At 8:20 p.m., Lachenmeyer said, “The unofficial results are not looking good. He’s beaten me by about 1,000 votes.” “I have no regrets about running. I still feel good. I created something beautiful in a year. I brought together a really great coalition,” Lachenmeyer said. “The incumbents need to know that they need to work for it. It’s not just going to be handed to them.” Referring to Puppolo, he said, “If he continues to face opposition from the left, he’ll move more to the left just because he has to.” Puppolo also reflected on his time on the job so far. “I love the job, and it’s humbling to see the strong results that we got, but at least I know we’re in the right direction,” he said. As of press time, there is no Republican candidate so Puppolo will be unopposed in the general election in November.
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Brothers become local business owners after college graduation By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — A pair of brothers from East Longmeadow are owners of their own gym three months after graduating from college, a move that the two cited as “the best decision we’ve ever made.” Johnny and Frankie Ferrentino both graduated in May — Johnny from Western New England University and Frankie from Central Connecticut State — and have opened XLR8 Sports Performance at 80 Denslow Road. XLR8 is a branch under CrossFit Iron Legacy, which is open mainly as a CrossFit gym. The brothers specialize in youth, high school and college athletics training but have a goal to eventually add general fitness, HYROX and physical therapy. “We want to make it the premiere athletic and training facility around,” Frankie said. “You can come in and do everything you could think of, and sort of
cater to everybody around here in the area.” Both brothers are former collegiate athletes who received business degrees and studied in athletics, athletic development and training conditioning throughout their careers. Johnny said they always had a love for the trade and knew they wanted to get into training as soon as possible after graduating. “We started training with high school kids and it was going great,” Johnny said. “Eventually, this place popped up for sale and we jumped on it.” Frankie said he fell in love with training while he was in high school and that opening their own business “means everything.” “I love writing programs, I love training, I love trying new things,” Frankie said. “This is our passion and watching people succeed and do good, like this summer was probably the biggest success we’ve had. Our personal athletes have grown to love it and they want to come back.”
Frankie said that he wants to have a great environment with all things fitness to build a community. Johnny added that it will be a place where everyone can get a great workout while building connections with the people around them. “We just love building that vibe, that community, and I just love helping people especially because we’ve been there and done it,” Frankie said. “I was a Division I athlete so helping out the kids, there’s nothing more I want than to see kids get scholarships and play at the next level. For the athletic side, kind of what we’re hoping to get is building that premiere athletic facility where people can come in, do everything, and then from a general fitness standpoint where people can come in. It’s a place where people can come in if you want to get in shape, lose weight, look better, feel better and just be a part of a great community.” They can be found at crossfitironlegacy.com, along with @
Johnny and Frankie Ferrentino stand inside their facility at 80 Denslow Road. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
crossfitironlegacy on Instagram and Facebook. Frankie also posts
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Public schools parent groups to host annual E-Cycle event Sept. 12 By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
EAST LONGMEADOW — The day for East Longmeadow residents to properly recycle all their electronic devices has returned. The East Longmeadow Public Schools’ parent groups’ annual E-Cycle day is set for Sept. 12 from 9 a.m. to noon at the new East Longmeadow High School, 180 Maple St. All proceeds go towards funding school initiatives, including field trips, enrichment activities or anything that isn’t typically covered in the school budget. Payment methods include checks, Venmo or cash. Residents can bring any elec-
tronic devices that don’t work or they don’t want anymore, such as televisions, dehumidifiers, lawnmowers, paper shredders or even treadmills. Residents can also bring bags of paper for $5, and shredding begins at 10 a.m. Costs vary for electronic items, with prices starting at $15 for audio and video equipment, kitchen and household appliances and yard equipment. These include smaller items like DVD players, toasters, blenders, vacuums or chainsaws. Residents can also recycle computer items for $15, such as laptops, tablets, printers or copiers. Computer monitors, mid-size appliances and small compo-
nents that don’t include small batteries are priced at $25. This includes AC units, mini fridges, microwaves or TVs smaller than 27 inches. TVs larger than 27 inches and large appliances, such as washers, dryers, stoves, dishwashers and exercise equipment, are priced at $30. Residents are asked not to bring styrofoam, large fridges or freezers, batteries, furniture and mattresses. Residents will receive a ticket once volunteers tally the items. Residents will then drive up to the Gold Circuit truck where items will be unloaded and recycled. Katie Reilly, an eighth grade math teacher at Birchland Park
Middle School, said the E-Cycle event has been ongoing for over 15 years. “It’s always the weekend after Labor Day that we run it, and we usually get a ton of support,” Reilly said. “I think some people look for it and store up their stuff until this. We have some regular customers.” She said the event’s whole purpose is for residents to properly dispose of electronics and ensure that everything is recycled and disposed of responsibly. High school students also volunteer, and the event is used to teach them about responsible recycling. “It’s important to show that sense of responsibility for their
things and also, it does cost money to do it but it is the right thing to do,” Reilly said. “It’s important to model that, and as a community, that same idea is just being responsible citizens of a town. You don’t want it dumped somewhere either around town or in the wrong way, you know, at the edge of your curb. I think it’s important to have it every year. I think it helps residents that rely on it, to continue to support that responsibility to your community, to the Earth and to your kids, to model that for them as well.” Residents can view a full breakdown of information and recycling costs on the Mapleshade PTO Facebook page, @ MapleshadePTO.
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Invasive spotted lanternflies nesting throughout state
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Spotted lanternflies have been spotted in 29 Western Massachusetts municipalities and 13 Hampden County municipalities. Photo credit: Henry Lanouette
censed Pesticide Applicator.” Wallner added that squishing the bug can help for individual sightings, but is not very effective with larger populations. Those who have come into contact with the insect report effective uses of warm, soapy water or hand sanitizer. “Thankfully, getting up close and personal with them doesn’t come with many risks as they don’t sting or bite humans, and have not been known to swarm or target humans,” Wallner said.
“Instructions for constructing homemade traps can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources’ website. Ultimately, studies for management are ongoing and we may learn new methods for control over time.” For more information about the spotted lanternfly, visit mass.gov/spotted-lanternfly. Massachusetts residents are also asked to report any sightings with a photo at massnrc. org/pests/slfreport.aspx.
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LONGMEADOW — Longmeadow Tree Warden Leah Wallner is providing tips on what to do when seeing a spotted lanternfly, which has been found across 50 Massachusetts municipalities, including Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Wilbraham, Hampden and Springfield. The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that harms the fruit and forest industries by feeding on a variety of plants and leaving behind a sap called honeydew. Honeydew attracts other insects and promotes the growth of plant-damaging sooty mold. Sooty mold stresses trees and leaves them vulnerable to other diseases and pests while disrupting photosynthesis, stunting tree growth and health. The insect made its way into the United States from Asia around 2014 in a shipment of gravel, becoming an invasive species by 2022. It has been spotted in 19 states and Washington D.C. The lanternfly’s preferred food source is the tree-of-heaven. It can also go after grapevines, black walnut trees, apple trees and other fruit crops and woody plants. “One thing that makes these bugs so successful is that they are not picky about what they eat,” Wallner said. “They are sap-sucking insects that feed
on over 100 of our local plants. Deterring them is difficult, although removing their favorite food sources — grape, tree-ofheaven and black walnut trees — from properties could be a good start.” They do not bite or sting humans, pets or other animals since their mouths are strawlike to drink sap. They also do not infest homes and are not able to kill large, healthy trees. Wallner said the species has minimal natural predators, reproduces quickly and is able to outcompete native species – making them invasive as opposed to non-native. She said Longmeadow first saw the insect in 2024. “Since then, their populations have skyrocketed,” Wallner said. “They’re wonderful hitchhikers, traveling on cars, shipments, etc., and also reproduce very quickly, which would explain why we’re seeing more and more as years go on.” She said there are a few options for managing the spotted lanternfly, but eradication efforts will be no small feat. “Some options for mechanical removal can include sticky traps or vacuuming up clusters and allowing them to pass away in the vacuum bag,” Wallner said. “Some pesticides can also be effective, however, limiting those to only impact spotted lanternflies is difficult, and application should only be completed by a Massachusetts Li-
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Wilbraham Art League to host open house Sept. 8 By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
WILBRAHAM — The Wilbraham Art League is encouraging the public to learn about all things art by meeting local artists and viewing original art pieces at an open house on Sept. 8. The free event runs from 6:308 p.m. at the Wilbraham Senior Center, 250 Springfield St. The Art League, founded in 2007, encourages and supports artists and the arts in Wilbraham and surrounding towns. It holds meetings on the second Tuesday of each month, besides July and August, for art demonstrations. Artist demonstrations can include using watercolors, creating wallpaper portraits, painting techniques, styles of painting and pastel art. Artists have an opportunity to learn from other artists, build friendships through creative experience and enjoy a sense of community with people who share similar interests when joining the group. Art League Website and Publicity Officer Roger Kellman said the group helps artists with gen-
erating new ideas and expanding their artistic efforts. He added the open house is an opportunity for the public and non-artists to discover what the group does in the community. For those interested in art, it’s a chance to explore the work that the group does to assist developing arts. “Anyone interested in art will benefit from stopping in,” Kellman said. “You don’t need to be an artist or even interested in doing art. Come to learn about art in general and how the member artists create their work. You will have the chance to chat with the artists and view their work in the center’s large activity room where the walls will be filled with paintings in various styles and mediums, or just come for the refreshments.” Kellman said the Art League is a friendly group that is open and always interested in helping new artists explore their abilities and their artistic journey. “The open house is something new for the Wilbraham Art League,” Kellman said. “We’re really trying to put ourselves out there and invite the larger com-
Wilbraham Art League members posed with their displayed work in the Wilbraham Senior Center activity room. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
munity and people who are not artists but just appreciate art. Come in and explore.” The Art League’s work can be viewed for most of the year in the Senior Center’s activity room,
with displays changing every two months. The public can also attend shows to see new work, with a few currently scheduled for November at the Wilbraham Pub-
lic Library and Agawam Public Library. More information can be found at wilbrahamartleague. org, or @WilbrahamArtLeague on Facebook.
Creative Apprentice opens doors in Wilbraham, holds events By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
WILBRAHAM — Wilbraham’s Creative Apprentice, 2141 Boston Road, has opened for business to bring hands-on art, craft and sensory experiences to Western Massachusetts children, teens and adults. The studio offers an array of arts activities, such as slime labs, vinyl record painting, canvas painting, henna art, and business card design and printing for teens and adults. Each program is fully stocked with supplies and offers plenty of time to create. Creative Apprentice’s mission
is to make creativity accessible to every family in the community while providing affordable, welcoming arts and crafts experiences. It also offers birthday parties with over 20 party experiences to choose from, held either at the studio or at your own space. Creative Apprentice will hold community drawing labs for kids, ages 6-12, each Monday in September from 3-5 p.m. Admission is $9 for those who see the flyer. The events will highlight and have participants draw a local landmark, building or community setting each week to build observation and creativity skills
while drawing together and sharing ideas. It will also hold a family paint night for all skill levels on Sept. 11 and Sept. 25 from 5-7 p.m. for $9 a person. There will also be sword and shield craft labs on Sundays in September from 2-4 p.m. for $15 a person. Founder Pawel Dyrkacz said a goal with Creative Apprentice is to get children off devices and give families something to do. He added that the business also features a print and design shop, allowing customers to make their own flyers, banners and websites. “It’s a bit in response to, what more can we do for our kids,”
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Customers can design their own flyers, business card or bookmarks at Creative Apprentice’s printing and design station. Reminder Publishing submitted photo
Dyrkacz said. “These events are output based, so the whole goal
is what you’re creating is what you’re taking home with you. We strive to inspire young minds to be productive, to be creative and to have a sense of pride about that, and hopefully parents can share in that pride … we want to empower these young people to feel like they can produce something and inspire them to take that into the future.” He said he started Creative Ap-
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Longmeadow Public Schools proposes policy manual changes By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — Longmeadow students are officially back in school and the district is proposing policy changes surrounding student discipline and medication. Superintendent Marty O’Shea introduced the changes at the School Committee meeting on Aug. 25 The modified policies include policy JKAA, time-out, seclusion and physical restraint of students; JLCDC, self-administration and self-carry of medications; and JLCD, administering medicines to students. Proposed policy changes require a public comment period for 30 days until the School Committee can vote. The policy subcommittee helped vet the language, which came almost exclusively from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees. O’Shea said policy JKAA
stems from recent litigation across the state and country where “school districts behaving badly” took advantage of situations described as time-outs for students but were actually seclusions or suspensions. He added that it tightens reporting requirements if a restraint is required. A time-out is a behavioral support strategy where a student temporarily separates from the learning activity or the classroom, either by choice or by direction from staff, for the purpose of calming. Staff members supervise the student during time-out in an unlocked setting that the student is allowed to leave once calmed. “The new policy specifically defines what a genuine time-out is, they give the kid a chance to get a regulatory break,” O’Shea said. “It prohibits seclusion and physical restraint, except under some very specific circumstances. Physical restraint can’t be, sort of, a go-to strategy as
part of a student’s behavioral plan or IEP.” Seclusion is the involuntary confinement of a student alone in a room or area in which the student is not allowed to leave. Physical restraint is direct contact that prevents or restricts a student’s freedom of movement. Seclusion and physical restraint are prohibited unless the student poses an imminent threat of assault or serious physical harm to self or others. Physical restraint is considered a “last resort” in the policy if the student is unresponsive to the other directives and other interventions are deemed inappropriate for the circumstance. Policy JLCD comes from regulations made by the Department of Public Health and tightens requirements for administering medication. “It specifies what would happen if a nurse needed to delegate responsibility for the administration of medication to another staff member,” O’Shea said. “The
Superintendent Martin O’Shea ran the School Committee through the policy changes at its meeting on Aug. 25. Photo credit: LongmeadowTV
previous language was pretty lax frankly, so this really requires some specific DPH-blessed training for people to engage in if their personnel are administering medication.” Policy JLCDC adds requirements and protocol on if students are able to self-administer their own medications, along with requirements on storage, receiving doctor’s orders and authorization from care-givers and parents. “It’s all good stuff,” O’Shea
said. “It really provides some additional clarity to staff, to administration, to our nurses.” O’Shea said the language will be broken down to make sure the staff and administration is fully educated, assuming School Committee approval after the public comment period. The full policy changes are posted for viewing at longmeadow.k12.ma.us/school-committee/ policy. An impact form is available as well to provide feedback.
Federal Credit Union names Longmeadow resident as loan originator LUDLOW — LUSO Federal Credit Union, serving members and communities in Hampden County since 1971, is excited to announce that David R. Williams has joined its team as loan originator. Williams, a Longmeadow resident, brings more than 25 years of banking industry experience to LUSO. In his new role, he will work closely with members to help them understand their lending options and confidently navigate the loan process. “David brings a wealth of experience to LUSO, along with a strong commitment to helping borrowers feel informed and confident throughout the lending process,” said Jennifer M.G. Calheno, president and chief ex-
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ecutive officer of LUSO Federal Credit Union. “His knowledge, approachable style and focus on personalized service align well with the experience we strive to provide every LUSO member.” For Williams, helping borrowers make informed decisions is an important part of his approach to lending. “I don’t expect borrowers to be mortgage experts because that’s my job,” Williams said. “My goal is to make sure they understand
the products LUSO has available to them, how the process works and what their options are. It’s not my job to choose a loan for someone; it’s my job to give them the information and guidance they need to make the decision that’s best for them. There is no one right answer for everyone.” In addition to serving LUSO members, Williams represents the credit union in the community through his involvement with the ERC5 Ambassador Team and the
Wilbraham Rotary Club. Williams is available to assist borrowers with their lending needs and can be reached at dwilliams@lusofederal.com or 413-589-9966 ext. 124. His loan originator identifier is 501024. To learn more about LUSO Fed-
eral Credit Union or to become a member, contact 844-LUSO-FCU or visit lusofederal.com. LUSO is federally insured by the NCUA. Shares and deposits in excess of NCUA limits are fully insured by MSIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #255907.
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Symposium highlights autism orgs, ways to prevent wandering By Sarah Heinonen
sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Half a dozen experts working in the field of autism spectrum disorder gathered for a symposium on wandering among the young people with the condition. The event was organized by state Rep. Angelo Puppolo and hosted at Greenleaf Community Center in Springfield. The symposium was open to the public and brought together individuals with autism, down syndrome, their families, caregivers, educators, advocates, first responders and healthcare professionals. Speaking at the event were experts from the state Department of Developmental Services Central/West Region, Autism Society, Hampden County Sheriff’s Department Autism Safety and Outreach Resources, Service Net and Autism Connections, Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council and Office of the Child Advocate. “Our goal is simple ... it’s to ensure that every family member leaves here tonight with new knowledge, valuable resources, contact information ... and connections,” the Springfield Democrat said. “My office is always available.” Cathrine “Cat” McEachern, research and professional training coordinator with Service Net/ Autism Connections, said wandering, or “elopement” is “super common.” She said, “The behavior is a communication of a need.” Youth who elope may be trying to escape an overwhelming stimulus or situation. McEachern, who is autistic, said that when she was a child, she used to hide in clothing racks in department stores because it felt less overwhelming than the store’s large, open space. The other reason young peo-
ple with autism often wander is in search of an interest. McEachern said that when she was 5 years old, she nearly drowned because she was able to wade into a pool when her parents were not looking. The Office of Child Advocate has been working in conjunction with the Department of Developmental Services to create an awareness campaign around the increased risk of drowning among autistic youth. She said that for many people with autism, light sparkling off water can be attractive. Water can also be soothing, akin to a waited blanket. Because of these reasons, many autistic people are drawn to water. Meg Crowley of the Office of the Child Advocate said being in or near water unsupervised is always dangerous, but adaptive swimming lessons are one tool families can employ to help protect their child or teen. She said every YMCA in the state offers adaptive swimming lessons. Knowing a child is prone to wandering can allow families to take proactive steps to minimize danger. Crowley said alerting first responders is important and can include face-to-face meetings with local police and fire officials. Otherwise, a disability indicator form can be filled out and submitted to the local 911 municipal coordinator. This alerts emergency services that a vulnerable person lives at the address. To find the local 911 municipal coordinator, call the city or town’s emergency services administrator. Mayor Domenic Sarno said Springfield Public Schools is working to create a day school for students with autism who require substantially separate programming. He assured families that their student would not be required to switch schools, but said, “You
give the opportunity to families to have some common and lasting effects, to know that their child ... or adult has the opportunity to enter the world positively.” Sarno said rates of autism diagnosis have increased in recent years. Sarno said, “But just because maybe he or she has autism does not mean they cannot achieve. They can achieve.” Among those who spoke at the symposium was state Rep. Jay Livingstone, the House chair on the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities. While introducing him, Puppolo said his colleague “not only advocates, but listens. And he gets it.” While he thanked Puppolo for his introduction, he said, “One of the things you learn in this, is no one knows it. No one can know it. You need a village.” Livingstone, a Boston Democrat, praised the symposium for bringing together experts from different governmental and community organizations. “Events like this bring these great service providers in the area together.” Livingstone urged people to contact him and the committee to share the service gaps they see and how the state can help. Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi shared that he lives with his brother, who “struggles tremendously with mental health.” He said, “For families caring for someone who is prone to wandering, an ordinary day can become an emergency in seconds. A door opens, somebody gets distracted, a child becomes overwhelmed and they take off through the door. Suddenly, a family is facing one of the most frightening situations imaginable.” The Sheriff’s Department’s Triad Division works with Project Lifesaver International, a non-
Elizabeth Rodrigues and Bob “The Bike Man” Charland, both of whom work with the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department’s Triad Division, display the Project Lifesaver wristband transmitter and receiver. Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
profit that outfits people at risk of wandering, whether due to autism, dementia or another cause, with a wrist- or ankle-worn device that transmits a radio signal. If the person elopes, families call 911 immediately and first responders report to the person’s last known location with a receiver that can pick up the device’s signal within a two-mile radius. Cocchi emphasized that the technology is not GPS, nor is it a replacement for other safeguards. It is a tool, used along with canines and drones, to help search teams locate a missing person. He said six in 10 people found while using the device are recovered within 20 minutes. “When someone is missing, every minute matters,” he said. “Hope isn’t a public safety strategy. Preparation is.” The radio transmitter costs about $400 with some continuing costs, but Cocchi said the Sheriff’s Department uses money seized through drug forfeitures to cover the cost for families. “There should never be haves and have-nots when it comes to protecting and caring for a loved one,” Cocchi said. Triad’s Elizabeth Rodrigues said about 100 people have obtained the device through the Sheriff’s Department. Wandering is not the only dangerous situation people with autism may find themselves in. Puppolo authored the Blue Envelope Law, which was recently signed into law. It provides for people with autism to carry a special blue envelope as a driver or passenger in a motor vehicle. During a traffic
stop, the person can alert the officer that they have a Blue Envelope, on which is written the behaviors or responses they can expect from people with autism. Inside the envelope are instructions for the driver on what to expect during a traffic stop. Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council Deputy Director Jennifer Bertrand called the Blue Envelope Law one of the year’s “really good wins.” Gyasi Burks-Abbott, with the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities program at Boston Children’s Hospital, shared a story from his own life illustrating why such programs are essential for those with autism and communication challenges. When Burks-Abbott was 13, he went to the store by himself for the first time. The grocery manager mistook him for someone who had previously stolen shopping carts. When approached by the police, Burks-Abbott was confused and broke out into “a Cheshire Cat-like grin,” a common reaction when he is nervous. The police took that as an admission of guilt. Had the police known Burks-Abbott has autism, his response may not have been misunderstood, saving him and his family undue stress. To learn more about the drowning risk among youth with autism, visit mass.gov/autismwatersafety. For more information about Project Lifesaver, call the Triad Division at 413-858-0060. More about the Blue Envelope Law can be found at mass.gov/info-details/ blue-envelope-program.
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EAST LONGMEADOW | SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026
Judge denies preliminary injunction in courthouse case By Dennis Hackett
dhackett@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — In a ruling by Superior Court Judge David Hodge on Aug. 24, developers Jeb Balise and Dinesh Patel were denied a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction in the Liberty Junction courthouse case. On July 2, the state’s Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance announced the selection of the Liberty Junction Team to replace the aging Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse with a new regional justice center at 125 Liberty St. The $600 million project calls for a six-story, L-shaped building located in close proximity to Union Station and Interstate 291. To accomplish this, the currently vacant Liberty Medical Arts Building will be demolished, and the new building will be erected across that demolished building, a 2.2-acre piece of property on Frank B. Murray Street. On July 9, Balise and Patel, owners of the competing projects USPB JV, LLC and Springfield Tower Square, LLC, filed a joint lawsuit against the Massachusetts Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance and the owners of the Developer FDS MA Liberty Junction LLC project, citing a potential conflict of interest. At the preliminary injunction hearing on Aug. 11, John Butts, attorney for the plaintiffs, argued that the primary issue with the selection is that one of the company’s four partners, John Barros, had a conflict of interest because he is the interim executive director of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, a governmental agency. In the denial, Hodge explained that when determining whether to issue a preliminary injunction, Balise and Patel would not suffer irreparable harm if they were denied. “If they were to prevail at trial in this case, they could recover a monetary judgment for the amount of their lost profits,” he wrote. However, he said that while Liberty Junction would suffer similar harm to Balise and Patel, potential harm to DCAMM would go beyond monetary damages. “[DCAMM Director of Leasing Deborah] Russell states in her affidavit that if DCAMM is barred from entering a lease agreement, it
will harm DCAMM and the Trial Court because DCAMM has devoted significant time and resources to this procurement, including hiring third-party architects to work with the selection committee and with Liberty Junction, and that those will have been wasted if DCAMM cannot complete its negotiations and execute a lease agreement with Liberty Junction,” he wrote. In her affidavit, Russell said without the injunction DCAMM could proceed with negotiations with Liberty Junction and select another developer if there are any “insurmountable obstacles to lease execution.” However, it would not be able to if there were a delay in negotiations. Hodge added, “This is a crucial time in the procurement process, and the target occupancy for the new courthouse is as soon as possible.” Reviewing the potential damages, Hodge said they would not be in the plaintiffs’ favor. “The balance between these risks plainly does not cut in favor of the plaintiffs. As a result, issuance of the preliminary injunction would be improper,” he wrote. Hodge added that delaying the courthouse development would harm the public interest. “The longstanding, serious problems with the current courthouse in Springfield are well known. Enjoining the defendants from proceeding with these negotiations would harm the public interest by delaying an already protracted process required for the Commonwealth to build, as expeditiously as possible, a sorely needed new courthouse in Springfield,” he wrote. Hodge wrote that evidence left no doubt that the plaintiffs have not met the burden for seeking injunctive relief. “The conclusion that granting the injunctive relief would not promote the public interest, but would adversely affect it, when viewed with the other considerations weighing against injunctive relief, leave no doubt that the plaintiffs have not met their burden in seeking injunctive relief,” Hodge wrote. In a statement after the denial, representatives from Liberty Junction said they were “deeply appreciative of the Court’s decision” and added that the lawsuit
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was baseless. They said that support from Attorney General Andrea Campbell and the Superior Court was enough evidence that the project should continue. “The Massachusetts Attorney General showed that the Liberty Junction proposal will save taxpayers $420 million. The proposal also includes a building that the Trial Court and DCAMM consider to be exceptional for serving the court’s needs. The Superior Court agreeing should reassure taxpayers, and everyone committed to a fair process that the right decision has been made,” the statement read. The developers also said in the statement that the project is long overdue. “Many lives of the good people who work in the current building, now and in the past, and their families have been negatively affected by a sick building that should have been remedied years ago,” the statement read. “We are committed to providing the Court and the people of Hampden County with the courthouse they need and deserve.” Despite the denial, Balise and Patel reaffirmed in a statement after the ruling that they would appeal the decision. According to the statement, Balise and Patel began issuing subpoenas seeking documents and testimony about the selection process. “The people of Springfield deserve a full airing of the facts and circumstances surrounding this procurement, and they deserve a process that is fair, complete, and complies with the law. We remain fully committed to that goal. Our confidence is complete, and our
Reminder Publishing file photo
commitment to this community is unwavering, which is why we will continue to pursue every available legal avenue, completely and without hesitation,” Balise and Patel said. In a statement released after the ruling, Mayor Domenic Sarno said he still had concerns about the Liberty Junction project. “As the state contemplates spending $2 billion+ for a new Hampden County Courthouse, my number one concern is for the taxpayers of Springfield and the state of Massachusetts. An argument has been presented that the Liberty Junction is not the cheapest proposal. This issue deserves a thorough vetting,” he said. Sarno also highlighted concerns from some officials who will have offices in the new courthouse. “District Attorney Anthony Gulluni, Register of Probate
Rosemary Saccomani, Registry of Deeds Cheryl Coakley Rivera and Clerk of Courts Attorney Laura Gentile, whose offices and staff will be housed in the proposed courthouse, work each day in this facility serving the some 1600 people who visit the courthouse daily. They are all publicly opposed to the Liberty Junction proposal,” he said. Reflecting on prior conversations with DCAMM Commissioner Adam Baacke, who Sarno said wanted the courthouse to be a transformative project for the city and area, he said this project is not in the city’s best interest. “As I have stated previously, Boston should not be dictating what is in the best interest of Springfield. This is another example of Boston power brokers working in their own best interest,” he said.
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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 Constance Croze John S. LaSalle Helen J. Majka Brian D. Mason John C. Spinks EAST LONGMEADOW George T. Marchant HAMPDEN James R. LaBoe HOLYOKE Shirley K. Fullam Gloria M. Furr
LONGMEADOW Clayton T. Shay Jr. Charles L. Ratner LUDLOW Judith L. Dembek Dorothy M. Glista Joan Kopinsky Simone M. Monteiro Derek Victor Rodrigues Friday, August 21, 2026 SOUTH HADLEY Reinaldo Ray Barreto Kathryn Yager Callahan Betty L. Edler
Janet C. Perreault SPRINGFIELD Barbara J. Bendtson Stephen T. Bonatakis Gennaro “Jerry” Buonfiglio Paula A. Collins Roland Joseph “Mcgee” Graveline George R. Lomax Ramona Jeanine Reccord Phillip “Phil” Rurak Donald C. Winkler Kathleen F. Wright
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This September
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DINING ENTERTAINMENT www.TheReminder.com
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the team brave enough to take a bite of the campfire on a stick. He said, “Ice cream packed between two graham crackers on a stick covered in chocolate. Need I say more? OK, I will. This is a cool, sweet treat that plays on those classic s’mores flavors and figures to be a real crowd pleaser. A word to the wise, though, if it’s a warm day, you’ll want to eat it quickly, unless you’re like my 8-year-old, in which case, the messier the better!” Moolicious will also offer salted butter popcorn soft serve. NOLA Cajun Kitchen & Raw Bar NOLA Cajun Kitchen & Raw Bar, which will be located on New England Avenue, is bringing a Crawfish Po’ Boy, which includes crispy crawfish on a fresh roll with lettuce, tomato, Cajun slaw and remoulade along with Hush Puppy Skewers made with lobster tail coated in hush puppy batter, flash-fried, drizzled with Mike’s Hot Honey butter and finished with Cajun remoulade. Tyler said the hush puppy was the best thing he tried all day. “The hush puppy batter was not too sweet and worked really well with the Mike’s Hot Honey Butter and Cajun remoulade. The Cajun butter poached lobster stayed soft and buttery through the flash fried process. The entire dish hit a lot of different flavor profiles and worked so well. I can’t wait to look for this food item when the Big E officially starts,” he said. Simply Gluten Free Simply Gluten Free will be taking the Big E stage for the first time, offering a variety of traditional fried fair food but with a gluten free twist. They will offer funnel cakes, fried Oreos, corndogs, chicken tenders, a jumbo mozzarella stick, fountain lemonade and other assorted cold drinks. Chris ended up having his first-ever corn dog from Simply Gluten Free. “Let it be known that my first corn dog ever was at the Big E media taste and was gluten-free to boot. And it was downright enjoyable. The deep-fried Oreo wasn’t overtaken by batter and grease, which can sometimes be the case with those kinds of treats, and the flavor of the chocolate cookie and cream filling were still very prominent,” he said. Storrowton Soup Shack
Storrowton’s presence at the Big E has gotten a bit of a mythological status from Reminder employees past and present with many of us looking back fondly on the cheeseburger chowder they offered years ago. This year, they are bringing homemade fried chicken with a side of Chef Vin’s Special Sauce. Chris said the chicken was perfect. “The Storrowton Soup Shack’s fried chicken is perfectly done. I’m not a big fan of heavily breaded, heavily fried foods in general, but this version is light and flavorful and the Chef Vin’s Special Sauce for dipping adds some extra flavor and a little kick,” he said. The Paddock The Paddock will set up shop on West Road and will bring their stack, which is four specialty sliders topped and stacked, then drizzled in smoky, spicy scauce made with ancho chiles, barbeque sauce and crispy onion straws. At the preview, they offered a maple bacon slider along with a slider with candied jalapeno. While most of our crew opted for the maple bacon one, I knew I had to try the candied jalapeno one, and I was not disappointed. The blend of the kick from the jalapeno and the sweet, candied flavor was an impressive mix of sweet and spicy. The burger also had a great flavor. Ryan said he enjoyed the maple bacon version. “I don’t know why, but I guess I was just infatuated with the salty-sweet combination today, even if my stomach doesn’t want me to be. The Paddock’s maple burger with cheddar cheese and bacon was another delight in that canon thanks to the intersection of those disparate flavors. I also like the handheld portion; it’s the perfect amount of sweet and savory; one flavor never subsumes the other,” he said. V-One Vodka As always, V-One Vodka brought a variety of drinks to this year’s preview, including their new Late Checkout Vodka seltzer, a caramel espresso martini and a spirited Christmas bar. I went for the raspberry seltzer and I was impressed with the flavor. I felt the raspberry flavoring was natural and had the signature taste of V-One Vodka, but it wasn’t overpowering. It was the perfect palette cleanser after a bunch of food and will be a refreshing grab to bring with you throughout the fair. Chris gave the caramel espresso martini a try. “I am not a martini drinker,
The “Stack” from The Paddock. Reminder Publishing photo by Chris Maza
but I am certainly a coffee fan, so this was one I had to try, albeit with some trepidation. My bravery paid off, however. The caramel sweetness and bitterness of the espresso play off each other really nicely in this drink, complemented by some alcoholic bite that is present but not overpowering,” he said. V-One Vodka will be located at the Young Building this year. White Hut This year, White Hut is bringing an Uncrusta Double Burger, which is exactly what it sounds like. A burger with two fried Uncrustables serving as the buns. Chris said the burger is a good flavor for people looking to try new things. “It’s sweet, savory and salty, all rolled into one. At times, the peanut butter and jelly can overwhelm the burger patties on the pallet, but then your next bit might do the opposite. It’s an interesting change-up and if you’re one who heads to the fair with a flair for the adventurous, this is worth taking a bite,” he said. White Hut will be in the Food Court. Yankee Boy Yankee Boy, which is celebrating its 100th birthday, is bringing a colossal centennial lobster roll with lobster meat sauteed in warm butter and served on a brioche roll with lemon and Old Boy/garlic aioli. They also offered honey barbeque sticky wings. While Tyler said he loved the See BIG E on page 14
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From left:The push-up sushi from K’s Japanese Restaurant. Fried Oreos from Simply Gluten Free. The homemade fried chicken with Chef Vin’s Special Sauce from the Storrowton Soup Shack. The Yankee Boy colossal centennial lobster roll. Reminder Publishing photos by Chris Maza, Tyler Garnet and Dennis Hackett
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lobster roll, he wished he could’ve had one of the full size ones.
“My only complaint about the lobster roll is that we were only allowed a small sample bite because I wanted more. The lobster itself was super soft, warm and buttery and had all the qualities you look for in a good lobster Reservations Recommended
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roll. The bun we had at the media preview was not the one that will be served during the actual fair, so I will be going back for a lobster roll when the Big E starts,” he said. Ryan said he enjoyed the
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wing and was surprised it wasn’t messier. “The flavor profile snuck up on me here. I’m so used to sweet barbecue sauce that I was not ready for how tangy the wing was right off the bat. By the time you’re done with that first bite, though, you’re graced with that
classic sweet barbecue flavor. Surprisingly, I enjoyed that roller coaster ride,” he said. Yankee Boy will be located on Springfield Road. Readers will have the opportunity to try all of these new menu items when the Big E kicks off on Sept. 18.
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Wilbraham Choral Society announces plans for 2026-2027 season WILBRAHAM — The Wilbraham Choral Society has announce that Mary Mayo Williams will be the director of the Wilbraham Community Chorus in the fall and the Men’s Glee Club in the spring. Williams is a veteran music educator and a retired church music director with ties to the Wilbraham community. Williams is a 1982 graduate of Minnechaug Regional High School and was a student of Warren Amerman, founder of the Wilbraham Community Chorus and Men’s Glee Club. Williams (an alto) sang with the Mixed Chorus under the direction of Ray Drury during the fall of 2024 and 2025, and conducted the final concert of the December 2025 season. Williams said, “I am excited to have opportunities to give back to the community that raised me; that provided formative experiences in singing with school and
Creative Continued from page 8
prentice out of his own passion to deliver a quality experience to his own children. “It’s going from painting one week to making fuzzy animals the next,” Dyrkacz said. “Next
church choirs; and that prepared me for my college studies.” The Wilbraham Choral Society is seeking singers for the fall semester. While there is no audition requirement to join this group, the successful choral member will possess a love of singing; excellent pitch matching abilities; sufficient hearing (natural or assisted); basic music reading skill; the ability to follow a directors; and regular rehearsal attendance. The selected musical program has a theme of “Heaven and Earth” and will consist of a mix of choral “classics,” familiar songs and holiday favorites. Rehearsals for the Community Chorus will begin at 7 p.m. on Monday Sept. 14, and continue on Monday evenings, at Christ the King Epiphany Church, 758 Main Street Wilbraham. For more information, visit the WCS Facebook page at facebook.com/ groups/114467482293144 month, we’re thinking about how to design a board game. All these opportunities to do fun things with my own kids branched out into, ‘hey, why not have a place where all of this can happen and it doesn’t have to be just for my kids?’” For a full list of programming, prices and scheduling, visit creativeapprentice.kids/#home.
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EAST LONGMEADOW | SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026
SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026 | EAST LONGMEADOW
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The Phillies’ Jim Forgarty connects in the bottom of the third inning.
Jo Ratcliffe reacts after fouling off a hanging curveball.
Ron Totten collides with the umpire but manages to score a run for the Phillies. Eddie Esposito fields the high hopper.
Goats catcher Jerold Duquette records the force-out at the plate, but the throw to first is too late for the double play.
PHILLIES VS FAINTING GOATS
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In an Over-50 Baseball League semifinal playoff game held at McKenzie Stadium in Holyoke on Aug. 19, the Phillies defeated the Fainting Goats 14-1. REMINDER SPORTS PHOTOS TAKEN BY GEORGE SKOVERA CALL 733-1747 or email gskovera@comcast.net
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EAST LONGMEADOW | SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026
Colin Hosley of the Phillies attempts to tag out Don Edwards of the Fainting Goats but the ball is kicked loose.
Phillies base runner Paul Kaplan appears caught between Goats infielders Tom Conway (left) and Eddie Esposito but finds a way to reach third base safely.
Matt Witek pulls the pitch to the left side.
Tom Conway steams into third base.
Phillies starter Ken Sloat rears back and fires.
SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026 | EAST LONGMEADOW
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THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS
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LEGAL NOTICES CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Docket No. HD26P1766EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Hampden Probate and Family Court 50 State Street Springfield, MA 01103 (413)748-7758 Estate of: Richard Daniel Liasse Also known as: Richard D Liasse Date of Death: 05/28/2026 To all interested persons: A Petition for Public Administration has been filed by John J Ferriter of Holyoke MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. The Petitioner requests that: John J Ferriter of Holyoke MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve With Corporate Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 09/16/2026. This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return date, action may be taken without further notice to you. UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Claudine T. Stoudemire, First Justice of this Court. Date: August 19, 2026 Rosemary A. Saccomani, Register of Probate (September 3)
LEGAL NOTICES EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 15, 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/8292 5067839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVE yea0ljsvr.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 27, September 3)
EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 15, 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/8292 5067839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVE yea0ljsvr.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 27, September 3)
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LEGAL NOTICES CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Docket No. HD26P1782EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Hampden Probate and Family Court 50 State Street Springfield, MA 01103 (413)748-7758 Estate of: Anna H Pond Also known as: Anna Pond Date of Death: 09/13/2025 To all interested persons: A Petition for Public Administration has been filed by John J Ferriter of Holyoke MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. The Petitioner requests that: John J Ferriter of Holyoke MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve With Corporate Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 09/21/2026. This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return date, action may be taken without further notice to you. UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Claudine T. Stoudemire, First Justice of this Court. Date: August 20, 2026 Rosemary A. Saccomani, Register of Probate (September 3)
EAST LONGMEADOW COMMUNITY PRESERVATION COMMITTEE PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given, under Chapter 14, Section 2 of the General Laws, that the Community Preservation Committee of East Longmeadow will hold a public hearing on September 16, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Council on Aging, located at 328 North Main Street. The purpose of the hearing is to review project applications from the Spring and discuss and set a Fall application window. The committee will also seek input from residents as to what future projects they would like the town to pursue with Community Preservation funds. For the Community Preservation Committee Amanda Dattilo Sr. Admin Clerk/Committee Clerk (September 3, September 10)
EAST LONGMEADOW
MONSON
HAMPDEN
PALMER
Alex James Serra to Apryl Thomas and Gregory A. Barnette, 36 Fraser Drive, $608,600. Brian D. Neeld to Jennifer Ziolkowski, trustee, Laura Ann Scutt-Drohan, trustee, and Cinderella Irrevocable Trust, trustee of, 6 Rogers Road, $440,000. Michael J. Borski and Heidi A. Borski to Mario Ferrentino and Jane Ferrentino, 62 Nottingham Drive, $890,000. Riccardo G. Albano to Zaide Soufane, 115 Fernwood Drive, $380,000. Michelle G. Davis and Scott F. Davis to Ericka Cecere and Karen Johnson-Greiner, 27 Mountainview Drive, $369,000.
LONGMEADOW
Bitsakis Trust, trustee of, Nicholas Bitsakis, trustee, and Olga Bitsakis, trustee, to Breanna Cloonan, 199 Birch Road, $415,000. Constantine Delis and Sarah Delis to Scott A. Fearn, trustee, and Scott A. Fearn Revocable Trust Agreement, trustee, 82 Churchill Drive, $1,625,000. Crista L. Rookey to Andres Gomez, 43 Elm Ave., $91,657. Joseph E. Flack to Anna Reynen and Nathan Reynen, 135 Forest Glen Road, $1,205,000. Robert M. Allen to Robert J. Knight, 117 Hopkins Place, $361,000.
LUDLOW
Luis D. Chaves and Edite Chaves to Sandra Perfito, 72 Chapin Greene Drive, $370,000. Matthew D. Caligaris, Katelyn J. Caligaris and Katelyn J. Callahan to Richard S. Paixao, trustee, Richard S. Paixao 2019 Trust, trustee of, Deborah A. Shedd-Paixao, trustee, and Deborah A. Shedd-Paixao 2019 Trust, trustee of, 15 Leland Drive, $800,000. Valiantsin Zhmaidziak to Christopher Sbrega and Janet Sbrega, West Street, Lot 14, $115,000.
LEGAL NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICES
INVITATION FOR BID (IFB) WINTER ROAD SALT
CITATION GIVING NOTICE OF PETITION FOR RESIGNATION OF A GUARDIAN OF AN INCAPACITATED PERSON Docket No. HD25P0295GD Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Hampden Probate and Family Court 50 State Street Springfield, MA 01103 In the interests of: Sandra Borsari Of: East Longmeadow, MA RESPONDENT Incapacitated Person/Protected Person To the named Respondent and all other interested persons, a petition has been filed by CareOne at Redstone of East Longmeadow, MA in the above captioned matter requesting that the court: Accept the Resignation of the Guardian of the Respondent The petition asks the court to make a determination that the Guardian and/or Conservator should be allowed to resign; or should be removed for good cause; or that the Guardianship and/or Conservatorship is no longer necessary and therefore should be terminated. The original petition is on file with the court. You have the right to object to this proceeding. If you wish to do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance at this court on or before 10:00 A.M. on the return date of 09/09/2026. This day is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline date by which you have to file the written appearance if you object to the petition. If you fail to file the written appearance by the return date, action may be taken in this matter without further notice to you. In addition to filing the written appearance, you or your attorney must file a written affidavit stating the specific facts and grounds of your objection within 30 days after the return date. IMPORTANT NOTICE The outcome of this proceeding may limit or completely take away the above-named person's right to make decisions about personal affairs or financial affairs or both. The above-named person has the right to ask for a lawyer. Anyone may make this request on behalf of the above-named person. If the above-named person cannot afford a lawyer, one may be appointed at State expense. WITNESS, Hon. Claudine T. Stoudemire, First Justice of this Court. Date: August 11, 2026 Rosemary A. Saccomani, Register of Probate (September 3)
The Town of Longmeadow, MA, is accepting bids for untreated winter road salt and magnesium treated rock salt. Bid documents are available from the Town of Longmeadow, Purchasing Dept, Attn: Chad Thompson, 231 Maple Rd, Longmeadow, MA 01106 (Phone: 413-565-4185, Email: cthompson@longmeado wma.gov). Bid documents can also be obtained online through the Purchasing Dept page of www.longmeadowma.gov. Bidders are encouraged to register with the Purchasing Dept. Deliver sealed bids to the Longmeadow Purchasing Dept. Bids will be accepted until the bid deadline of 11:00 am on Friday, September 18, 2026. The outside of the bid submission envelope should be labeled with the bid title name: "IFB: Winter Road Salt" along with the complete contact information of the bidder. Late bids will be rejected. A public bid opening will follow the bid deadline. There will be two (2) separate contract awards for a one year contract and will be procured under MGL 30B. No bid deposit is required. The Town of Longmeadow, acting through the Town Manager, the Awarding Authority reserves the right to reject any and all bids, waive minor informalities, and to award the contracts in the best interest of the Town. (September 3) INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE Docket No. HD26P1698EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Hampden Division Estate of: Lillie Rigali Also Known As: Lillie M. Rigali Date of Death: 05/25/2026 To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Liana Charter of Chicopee MA Petitioner Shelley Steuer of Northampton MA A Will has been admitted to informal probate. Liana Charter of Chicopee MA Shelley Steuer of Northampton MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond. The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner. (September 3)
EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 15, 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/8292 5067839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVE yea0ljsvr.1 Case SP-2026-06: Request for Special Permit for Gatsby Golf Company LLC for operation of a restaurant and for an indoor golf simulator recreation facility 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 27, September 3)
Glen Peck and Karen Conners-Peck to Thomas Michael Toepfer, 18 Palmer Road, Unit 12, $340,000. Gloria A. LaFlamme, estate, and Marie Claire Foley, representative, to John Cranham and Donna Clark-Cranham, 49 Country Club Heights, $376,000. Joshua J. Belliveau and Nicole C. Rucki to Richard Harbridge and Tiffany Harbridge, 258 Silver St., $610,000.
Nicholas Toma to Thomas F. Lennon, Emery Street, Lot 40, $425,000. Patricia L. James and Diane L. McIntosh to Erica Schulman and Melissa Torquato, 48 Longview St., $420,000. Tomasz Marszalek and Ewelina Marszalek to Abigail Bechtold and Ryan Bechtold, 17 Homestead St., $512,000. William J. Buehler to Manuel D. Silva, Joaquim D. Alves and Jackmann Properties, 55 French Drive, $180,000.
WILBRAHAM
David J. Callahan and Loren G. Callahan to Tom Daniel and Katie Daniel, 8 Iroquois Lane, $875,000. Joseph F. Stiefel and Constance D. Stiefel to Jennifer L. Hart, 6 Brookmont Drive, $605,000. Orquiola Family Trust, trustee of, and Caroline Filippi, trustee, to Colondres+Co LLC, 44 Blacksmith Road, $420,000. Robert A. Grove and Teresa Grove to Christopher L. Reid and Amanda M. Reid, 24 Merrill Road, $480,000. Steven Weber and Jacqueline Comprone-Weber to George D. Nolan and Lisa D. Nolan, 77 Cherry Drive, Unit 77, $439,900. Thomas C. Daniel, Katie L. Daniel and Katie L. Knodler to Zachary Ziemba and Jacqueline C. Benoit-Ziemba, 9 Branch Road, $500,000. Tullio G. Siniscalchi, estate, and David W. Siniscalchi, representative, to Alexandr Kaletin, 17 Raymond Drive, $406,318.
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ARTICLES FOR SALE
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RICHIE’S HOME IMPROVEMENTS Contractor/Mechanical Services/ Handyman Replacement windows, vinyl siding, roofing, gutters installed/cleaned, remodeling, painting, flooring/carpeting, masonry, carpentry, powerwashing & ceramic tiling. Residential/commercial. No job too small. Lic#148425/Insured 413-746-2171/413-246-0927 Retired Handyman Exterior Painting/Tree Work Roofing/Rough Carpentry
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HOME IMPROVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
MISCELLANEOUS
AARDVARK PAINTING & HOME IMPROVEMENTS INC. Kitchen & Bath Remodel Services. Water Damage Repairs! Quality since 1964. (413) 596-4841
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TOP DOLLAR PAID for old vintage Guitars! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Grecsch, Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Etc. 1930's to 1980's. Call 866433-8277
CHAMELEON REMODELING & PAINTING
Senior Discount
AUTO SERVICES
Call Dave 413-244-7572
CASH FOR JUNK AND REPAIRABLE CARS
OLD SCHOOL WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING Gutter Cleaning $95 any home; Power washing starts at $99; Window Cleaning starting at $75; Roof Moss Control $99. Call Bob 413-896-6442. FULLY INSURED www.windowcleanup.com
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BUSINESS PROPERTY FOR SALE: 35,000 square foot office/light industrial building on 4.5 acres of land in Concord, Massachusetts. Situated at the end of a cul-de-sac, this property is 15 minutes from Rte. 128 and 20 minutes from Rte. 495. Not only is there town water and sewer but the town of Concord has its own electric company. In addition, Concord has underground Concord fibre optic internet. 7 minutes from historic Concord center, enjoy Walden pond, Louisa May Alcott's house and many other historic sites as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Use the entire building or keep some of the tenants already occupying the building. Mowing, plowing, and other maintenance already in place could remain. Call with any questions: 978.580.1895
HANDYMAN Experienced carpenter (30yrs.) Dependable, fair. Free estimates on repairs & home improvements. Call Gary 413-233-6418 Interior & Exterior. Hourly & Daily Rates + Free Estimates. Senior Discount. Call 413-286-4164
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HELP WANTED
PRIME PAINTING
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DRYWALL
We are seeking a reliable and experienced Flatbed/Tow Truck Driver to transport vehicles to our facility. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, a focus on safety, and excellent customer service skills.
CEILINGS Ceiling repairs, texturing, plastering, texture removal and skim coating. Fully insured, free estimates. 594-4479
PAINTING, DRYWALL, STUCCO AND CARPENTRY 413-364-3157
ELECTRICIAN JAMES FERRIS ELECTRICIAN Lic.#E16303
Insured. 50 yrs. experience. No job too small. Call 413-330-3682
FIREWOOD Wood Chopper Bob's Firewood Green and Seasoned Hardwoods Cut to length, Split, and Delivered (413)426-7529 or (860)463-6519
GENERAL SERVICES A.R.A. JUNK & FURNITURE REMOVAL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL DEMOLITION SHEDS/PATIOS HOUSE CLEANOUTS Appliances & Garage We Recycle & Donate
PETE 413-433-0356
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Trash Removal No matter how small Free estimates Call 413-335-5546
Key Responsibilities: •Safely operate a flatbed or tow truck to pick up end-of-life vehicles from customers, auctions, and other locations. •Secure and transport vehicles efficiently while following all safety and DOT regulations. •Complete necessary paperwork and maintain accurate records of pickups and deliveries. •Perform routine vehicle inspections and report maintenance needs. •Provide friendly, professional service when interacting with customers and vendors. •Assist with general yard duties as needed. Qualifications: •Valid Driver's License (with a clean driving record) and DOT Medical Card. •Experience operating a flatbed or tow truck (auto recycling or towing industry experience is a plus). •Knowledge of vehicle loading, strapping, and safety procedures. •Ability to lift and move heavy items as needed. •Strong attention to detail and time management skills. • Must pass a background check and drug screening. Why Join Us? •Competitive pay & benefits •Steady work in a growing industry •Friendly team environment •Opportunity for advancement •New trucks Ready to get behind the wheel? Apply today and become part of our dedicated team. Job Type: Full-time Pay: Salary Commensurate with Experience Benefits: •401(k) •401(k) matching •Health insurance •Paid time off Work Location: In person Cindy Piekarski HR/Payroll Manager Mitchell’s Auto Parts, Inc. d/b/a Chuck and Eddies Used Auto Parts 384 Old Turnpike Road Plantsville, CT 06479 860-426-8975 direct 860-628-7013 fax Good Cause Greetings, a producer and marketer of greeting cards, needs help packing and shipping orders for the holiday season. Flexible hours. Job is located at the Mills in Indian Orchard. $16/hour. Reply to: cathy@goodcausegreetings.com Westfield Area Landscape Company seeking landscape laborer and winter help. Starting immediately, top pay, must have license and own transportation. Experience preferred. Call 413-209-0270
EAST LONGMEADOW | SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026
When it's time for a change
- INTERIOR & EXTERIOR -
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413-351-1147
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Panzetti
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Personal Touch Garden Service
Landscape design, mulch and stone beds, hedge trimming (specialist), shrub and perennial installation. Call 413-735-3189 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 Concrete, Sidewalks, Floors & Frost Walls! Free Estimates! Call 413-286-4164 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
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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
SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026 | EAST LONGMEADOW
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