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Hampden Selectboard looks at MOU from Wilbraham By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
HAMPDEN — The Hampden Selectboard discussed its opinions and made revision suggestions on a memorandum of understanding from the Wilbraham Select Board covering costs relating to Wilbraham Middle School at its meeting on Sept. 15. The MOU covers around $86,000 in capital repairs for the middle school, which both boards agreed to in July. The Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District School Committee voted to incorporate the funds into the district’s FY27 assessment on July 30. The towns will need to approve the budget increase at fall Town Meeting. It also covers emergency costs that may occur while the middle school is still in use and the core program is explored, feasibility costs and design costs. Attorney Brian Winner initially spoke through the MOU at the Wilbraham Select Board’s meeting on Sept. 11. Winner said Hampden’s counsel felt the capital needs were “water under the bridge” and emergency, feasibility and design costs were already covered in the existing regional agreement.
Wilbraham Select Board Chair Marc Ducey said he spoke to Hampden Selectboard Chair John Flynn, with the belief that Flynn thought there was no reason for an MOU or any further regional agreement amendments. Ducey said Flynn didn’t have that perspective, and Flynn told him he believed the MOU had some issues in the way it’s written but is an “appropriate document.” Hampden Town Administrator Brian Domina said both boards agree on the long-term goal of establishing a new regionalized middle school owned by the district on Sept. 14. He said the tool for implementing that is the regional agreement, which needs to make sure both towns can share the building like the other regional buildings, while also detailing cost sharing, planning and constructing the building. “The intent is it’s treated the same way as we do [Minnechaug Regional High School],” Domina said. “That gets us through the long-term goal of building a new regional middle school, which is obviously a long-term process that’s going to, we’re going to have to go through the Massachusetts School Building Authority.” Domina said there’s also ques-
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IN THIS
EDITION EAST LONGMEADOW
St. Vincent De Paul Fall Fair returns for second year
The Hampden Selectboard will meet with the Wilbraham Select Board on Sept. 23 to discuss the regional agreement and memorandum of understanding on Wilbraham Middle School.
A fall fair featuring local crafters, artisans, vendors, food and raffles will return to St. Michael’s Parish on Oct. 3.
Page 4
Photo credit: Town of Hampden, MA
tions about the short-term plan, in terms of how the middle school can be made “the best educational environment” considering the age of the building and a potentially short remaining life span. He added both towns are aligned in not wanting to make significant capital investments to building that may only have five to 10 years left, and that Hampden doesn’t because the town doesn’t own the building. The towns have also created an improvement plan to identify “critical deficiencies” in the middle school, and Domina said Wilbraham will bring funds to Town
Meeting to cover repairs. The towns still need to figure out how to share additional costs. Flynn said the MOU doesn’t discuss the future and only covers what the two boards did this year. He said it didn’t talk about how the process should be repeated on an annual basis, and Domina said it does “miss the mark in that respect.” “It’s different from the one we saw before where it was a blank check going forward,” Flynn said. “Instead of modifying the blank check to say ‘repeat the process,’
LONGMEADOW
Friends of Storrs Library brings back ‘Homes Through the Centuries’ after seven years The Friends of Storrs Library is officially bringing back its “Homes Through the Centuries” self-guided walking tour on Oct. 4.
Page 6
See MOU on page 4
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TOWN EVENTS www.TheReminder.com
Submit your community listings online at thereminder.com/ submit-an-event/ or by emailing dhackett@ thereminder.com. Events are subject to review and printed on a space available basis.
EAST LONGMEADOW EAST LONGMEADOW PUBLIC LIBRARY
The following events are organized by the East Longmeadow Public Library, 60 Center Square. For more information or to register, head to eastlongmeadowlibrary.org or call 413-525-5420. Teen programs: • Teen Fall Crafternoons — Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. beginning on Sept. 10.
•
Teen Spot — Fridays from 2-4 p.m. • Fandom Club — Monday Sept. 28, at 2:30 p.m. Children programs: • Baby Lapsit Storytime — Monday, Sept. 28, at 10 a.m. For infants and prewalkers (ages birth to 12 months). • Preschool Storytime & Crafts — Thursday, Oct. 1, at 10 a.m. September book groups: • Teen Book Club — Tuesday, Sept. 29, at 3 p.m. This month’s selection is “Moxie” by Jennifer Mathieu. This month the group will be looking at a book to movie adaptation, so members can read the book, watch the movie or do both. • Funny Bonz (grades 3-5) — Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 4:30 p.m. This month’s selection is “Our Friend Hedgehog: The Story of Us” by Lauren Castillo
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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. • The Financial Realities of Retirement — Monday, Sept. 28, at 11 a.m. • Blue Cross Blue Shield Table Top — Tuesday, Sept. 29, 10 a.m. to noon. • Monthly Blood Pressure Clinic with Nurse Renee — First Friday of every month starting Oct. 2 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
CANDLELIGHT IMMERSIVE SOUND MEDITATION CONCERT
Svara Sound returns to Heart Song Yoga, 264 North Main St., to offer an evening bathed in candlelight on Friday, Sept. 25. Immerse yourself in a sound journey of Crystal singing bowls, planetary gongs, chimes, Himalayan singing bowls, voice and other vibrational instruments that help guide you into deep rest. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.; please arrive early and bring a mat, blanket, or anything else that helps you get comfortable. The last concert filled the room, so reserve early.
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. • Puzzle Palooza — Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 1-3 p.m.
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The following events take place at the Richard Salter Storrs Library, 593 Longmeadow St. For more information or to register for programs, call 413-565-4181, or head to longmeadowlibrary.org. All ages programs: • October Art Exhibit: Isabel Margolin — Friday, Oct. 2, through Wednesday, Oct. 28. • Friends of Storrs Library Book Sale Collection Saturday, Oct. 3, through Saturday, Oct. 17. Youth programs: • Youth Chess (kindergarten and up) — Monday, Sept. 28, 3:154:15 p.m. • Stories and Movement (ages 2 and up) — Tuesday, Sept. 29, 9:30-10 a.m. • Newbies (ages birth to 15 months) — Tuesday, Sept. 29, 10:45-11:30 a.m. • Stuffy Portraits with Marie Tucker — Tuesday, Sept. 29, 3:304:30 p.m. • Grow Play Learn (ages 2-5 years) — Wednesday, Sept. 30, 9:30-10:30 a.m. • Drop-In Board Games — Wednesday, Sept. 30, 3:304:30 pm • Tiny Tales — Thursday, Oct. 1, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Adult programs: • VIRTUAL: Play Along Ukulele from Home! — Monday, Sept. 28, 7-8 p.m. • Tech Tuesdays — Tuesday, Sept. 29, 1:30-4:30 p.m. • Calligraphy That Inspired a Nation: Learn to Write Like America’s Founders — Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6-7:30 p.m. • Virtual: Raising Capable Problem Solvers — Tuesday, Sept. 29, 7-8 p.m. • Music Appreciation with Rob
CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1966 TO CELEBRATE 60-YEAR REUNION LONGMEADOW — Cathedral High School’s Class of 1966 as we celebrate its 60th anniversary reunion on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 6-10 p.m. at Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road. For more information, to provide updated contact information, or to assist with the planning committee, please reach out via email to cathedral1966@gmail.com.
•
• • •
• •
Humberston — Wednesday, Sept. 30, 1-2:30 p.m. LHS Presents: Smallpox in 18th Century Longmeadow and its Influence on the Course of the Revolution with Dr. Al McKEE — Wednesday, Sept. 30, 6:307:30 p.m. Weekly Writers Group — Thursday, Oct. 1, 9:30-11 a.m. Bocce on the Lawn — Thursday, Oct. 1, 11 a.m. to noon. World Events Discussion with Vinnie Ferraro: Global Civic Culture — Thursday, Oct. 1, 3-4:30 p.m. Storrs Stitchers (Drop-In) — Friday, Oct. 2, 10-11:30 a.m. Dungeons & Dragons — Saturday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
LONGMEADOW ADULT CENTER
The following programs are organized by the Longmeadow Adult Center, located at 211 Maple Road. For more information or to sign up for programs, call 413-565-4160 option 1. • History and Architecture of the Massachusetts State House — Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 6 p.m. • Introduction to Fly Fishing — Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 6 p.m.
WILBRAHAM WILBRAHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY
The following programs take place at the Wilbraham Public Library, 25 Crane Park Drive. For more information or to sign up for programs, head to wilbrahamlibrary.org or call 413-596-6141. • Teen Basic Embroidery Workshop — Tuesday, Sept. 29, from 5-6:30 p.m.
CORRECTION In the Sept. 17 story titled “Northampton Jazz Festival returns for 15th year,” it was incorrectly stated that the photos taken were from Northampton Jazz Festival. They were actually taken by Elizabeth Leitzell. Reminder Publishing regrets the error.
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EAST LONGMEADOW | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
Cyberattack on city schools included data breach
Mayor Domenic Sarno addresses reporters at a Sept. 11 press conference about the cyberattack. Reminder Publishing photo by Sarah Heinonen
By Sarah Heinonen
sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — In the wake of a cyberattack on Springfield Public Schools, the FBI has confirmed that the attack included a data breach. On Sept. 15, the School Department was notified that the data of students and staff was stolen. On Sept. 1, School Department information technology staff noticed malicious signals on the school’s system. Over the next week, the staff worked to repel the cyberattack. City and school officials informed the public of the attack that weekend that they had been locked out of some computer systems and over the next week, began working to restore access.
In a press release on Sept. 15, SPS Chief of Communications Azell Cavaan said the extent of the stolen data is not yet verified, but it may have included staff Social Security numbers. The district does not keep student Social Security numbers in the system that was breached. “The district has been working proactively since last week to expedite free credit monitoring services for all district personnel and remains committed to making that available as quickly as possible,” Cavaan said. “Our priority remains supporting those who may be affected and working with our partners to understand the full scope of this incident. The district remains in See DATA BREACH on page 7
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Fair to raise funds for St. Vincent de Paul’s outreach By Tina Lesniak Correspondent
EAST LONGMEADOW — A fall fair featuring local crafters, artisans, vendors, food and raffles will return to St. Michael’s Parish on Oct. 3, offering residents an opportunity to get an early start on holiday shopping while supporting neighbors in need. The St. Vincent de Paul Society Fall Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. The event will feature 36 crafters, artisans and vendors, with offerings both indoors and outdoors. “This will be the second year of holding the fair, which was very successful last year,” said Toni Raczkowski, chairperson. Shoppers can expect a mix of items, including wood decor, florals, jewelry, papercrafts, fused glass, original artwork, scented products, ornaments, baked goods and sewn items. Visitors will also have the op-
ENFIELD
portunity to make and decorate their own hat. “We have something for everyone, including both fall and holiday themed,” Raczkowski said. The fair will also include a raffle, with each vendor donating one of their unique creations. And for those looking for a sweet fall treat, freshly made cider donuts from The Apple Place bakery will be available. While the fair offers an opportunity to shop and enjoy the season, its primary purpose is to raise money for the St. Vincent de Paul Society’s efforts to assist people throughout the local community. “The Fall Fair is our largest fundraiser and will allow us to continue our work to help the poor and needy in our local community,” Raczkowski said. The St. Vincent de Paul Society is a Catholic lay organization separate from St. Michael’s Parish, although Raczkowski said the society relies heavily on the support of the parish and
its pastor, Father Wayne, and his staff. Assistance is provided regardless of a person’s religious affiliation. Funds raised through the fair help the society provide both traditional and less conventional forms of assistance. That can include help with rent, food and utilities, as well as car payments, car insurance, cell phone bills and funeral expenses. The society also assists formerly incarcerated individuals as they work to re-enter society. Last year, its volunteers purchased food, prepared meals and served more than 3,000 meals at homeless shelters in Springfield. Among the most difficult situations volunteers encounter are homeless families, including some living in their cars. While the society cannot provide housing, it can connect families with agencies that may be able to help and provide food and other necessities while they work toward finding shelter and, ultimately, stable housing.
plan and not just for this year. Selectboard member Erik Vanderleeden asked what would happen and who would pay if the boards were not in agreement and a “major thing happens” at the middle school. Flynn said it’s covered a little bit in the MOU and Domina said Wilbraham would pay for it. Flynn said he likes the language in the MOU’s emergen-
cy repairs section because it doesn’t put any responsibility on Hampden to participate or pay for repairs. He said the MOU takes care of the middle school and suggested adding language to repeat this year’s process for subsequent years and removing specific number amounts. The board touched on the regional agreement, which Domi-
The society’s reach extends well beyond East Longmeadow. “The St. Vincent de Paul Society of East Longmeadow covers a 25-mile radius, including four counties and 20 local towns,” Raczkowski said. During person-to-person visits, Vincentian volunteers work in pairs to help individuals identify their most immediate needs and determine what assistance would be most helpful. For Raczkowski, that personal connection is at the heart of the organization’s mission. “We serve. We just serve. Everyone,” she said, quoting a national director. “We are called to offer love without conditions, assistance without judgment and presence without expectation of return.” The Fall Fair will take place Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Michael’s Parish. Proceeds will support the St. Vincent de Paul Society’s ongoing efforts to assist individuals and families throughout the local community.
AGAWAM REMINDER CHICOPEE-HOLYOKE HERALD EAST LONGMEADOW REMINDER ENFIELD/SOMERS REMINDER HAMPSHIRE REMINDER THE “ORIGINAL” PENNYSAVER SPRINGFIELD REMINDER
Operations Director: Curtis Panlilio Executive Editor: Chris Maza Managing Editors: Dennis Hackett, Ryan Feyre Staff Writers: Sarah Heinonen, Deb Gardner, Amy Porter, Trent Levakis, Cliff Clark, Tyler Garnet, Peter Tuohy
MOU
Continued from page 1
they dropped any year after this. This is nine pages on what we’ve already accomplished.” He said having the agreed-upon $86,000 in the MOU makes it seem like that number covers the middle school’s entire interim
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na said needs to allow for cost sharing during planning and construction of a new regional middle school. The Wilbraham Select Board and Hampden Selectboard held a joint meeting at Hampden Town Hall on Sept. 23 to further discuss the regional agreement and MOU. Coverage of that meeting will be in the Oct. 1 edition of The Reminder and at thereminder.com.
WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS | THEREMINDER.COM
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Cyberattack may shift winter break By Sarah Heinonen
sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Massachusetts law requires public school students to have 180 days of instruction during each school year. With Springfield students out of class during the week of Sept. 7 due to a cyberattack, the Curriculum and Programs Subcommittee reviewed the 2026-27 school year calendar to determine how that time could be made up. Based on conversations with leadership from each of the educational unions, Superintendent Sonia Dinnall proposed amending the days off during winter break. Dec. 18 and Dec. 21, which are currently scheduled to be a half day and a day off, respectively, would be full days of instruction. Dec. 22 would become a half day, and students and staff would still take off on Dec. 23 and 24.
Schools are closed Dec. 25 for the Christmas holiday. Students and staff would return to school on Jan. 4 and Jan. 5. Those days are currently scheduled to be part of winter break. A professional development day, on which students are off but staff work, was scheduled for Jan. 6. Because Sept. 11 was used for professional development, Jan. 6 would be changed to a day off. Students and staff would return to school on Jan. 7, and the calendar would move forward as planned. Dinnall explained that school districts can request a waiver of the 180-day requirement if efforts to achieve that would take school into July. However, she said that even if weather causes the School Department to use all five snow days that are built into the calendar, there would still be plenty of days left in June to make
up lost time. School Committee member Rosa Valentin asked if any exceptions would be made for staff and families who have vacation plans scheduled for the altered vacation days. School Committee member and subcommittee Chair Denise Hurst recalled a year when the calendar was adjusted. She said consideration was given to those circumstances. However, she said it would not be prudent for staff to make new plans for those days because the proposed calendar changes are known. Dinnall said Springfield Education Association Unit A leadership was “instrumental” in determining appropriate calendar changes, and she thanked all units for their input and flexibility. The School Committee must vote on whether to approve the changes at its Sept. 24 meeting.
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Friends of Storrs Library revives ‘Homes Through the Centuries’ By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
LONGMEADOW — The Friends of Storrs Library is officially bringing back its “Homes Through the Centuries” self-guided walking tour on Oct. 4, where attendees will have the chance to explore and take an intimate look at six Longmeadow homes that span across generations. This event showcases the craftsmanship and stories behind some of Longmeadow’s most historic homes. It begins on the Town Green and runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets are on sale and priced at $35 a person. The Friends of Storrs Library is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Longmeadow library through fundraising, programming and volunteer efforts. Its mission is to foster lifelong learning, literacy
and community engagement for all residents. Event proceeds will go directly toward funding educational initiatives, community events and library resources to enrich the town and surrounding areas. Friends Board member Martha Waugaman said 100% of the library’s programming is supported by the organization and its efforts. She said this event is the group’s “one big event” of the year. “The last time we did a home tour was in 2019, so we’re really excited to be able to bring it back to the community,” Waugaman said. “It’s a really unique opportunity for people in the community to have unparalleled access to six private homes that surround the Longmeadow green.” Attendees will have full access to the homes at their own pace on a self-guided tour, making stops inside to read up on facts and in-
formation surrounding the history behind the house. “We’ve tried to pick a selection of homes to really fit the theme of homes through the century,” Waugaman said. “We’re going to have homes through all sorts of different time periods and styles. We have federal, Georgian, Greek Revival, even a contemporary home built in 2019.” Waugaman said the Town Green is an integral part of the community, and is why the Friends wanted the house tours to take place in that area. She said the homes span over so many years and architectural styles so there is something of interest for everyone. She added the event’s real purpose is to bring the community together and to support the Storrs Library, stating it is a fixture in the community. “I hope that residents look at it
Tickets are on sale now for $35 at the Richard Salter Storrs Library, 693 Longmeadow St., or online at friendsofstorrslibrary.org Reminder Publishing photo by Peter Tuohy
as a unique opportunity to look at these beautiful homes, but also to see the personality behind them,” Waugaman said. “We can look at these houses from the street, but I think walking through the doors, you really get some insight into the families that have lived there, the details they preserved,
the things they’ve collected and how each home and our town has evolved through the century.” Tickets are available at FriendsofStorrsLibrary.org or in-person at the library, 693 Longmeadow St. Space is limited and advance ticket purchases are recommended.
Springfield students go old school with pen and paper after cyberattack By Sarah Heinonen
sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield students got a taste of education in the analog age after a cyberattack on Springfield Public Schools forced teachers to pivot from smartboards and laptops to paper worksheets and index cards. Educators took Sept. 11 as a professional development day to prepare to teach without technology, although some teachers said they preferred to instruct with pen
and paper. “It’s more beneficial to the students to use pen and paper,” said Troy Doming, a seventh grade science teacher. He said research backs up his assertion that students retain the information more when writing formulas instead of typing them. He added, “The worksheet doesn’t fail to load,” or have a dead battery. “We all knew what we needed to do,” said Gisella Grimaldi, a life skills teacher. “We went back to pencil and paper. Most of us
started with pencil and paper, so we reverted.” Not all lessons were taught in hard copy, however. Educators had access to internet-based programs, which were not affected by the cyberattack, and students received instruction through a mix of formats. Educators and nursing staff were back online with their credentials on Sept. 11. Jose Escribano, chief of family and community engagement, said system access was being restored “in a
very thoughtful and careful way.” Superintendent Sonia Dinnall later explained, “We’ve made significant progress,” but she said the pace was “slow and steady.” The in-district information technology team and the outside assistance Springfield has received are bringing each system back online with security front of mind. Dinnall toured each of the city’s schools unannounced on Sept. 14. What impressed her most was the positive attitude of teachers and
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students. Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Terry Powe agreed, saying, “Everyone came together.” During the professional development, sixth grade math teacher Victoria Gaskins spoke to the feeling of collaboration among educators. She said, “We’re one team. One unit.” Paraeducator Tangela Smith said it was her first year as an educator. While the cyberattack and ensuing pivot in instructional methods was not what she expected, she said, “I trust my team.”
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Findings from local paranormal investigations to be revealed By Peter Tuohy
ptuohy@thereminder.com
WILBRAHAM — The Friends of Wilbraham Seniors is set to host Agawam Paranormal’s return to the Wilbraham Senior Center, 250 Springfield St., on Oct. 16 to reveal the investigative group’s findings from visits to three Wilbraham locations – Adams Cemetery, the Block Building and Taproom Bar and Grill. The “Who Goes There: Premiere Reveal” fundraiser will feature Agawam Paranormal Lead Investigator and Director Rob Goff as he unveils what occurred in the group’s first time visiting the locations. The reveal is a follow-up to the Friends of Wilbraham Seniors’ initial May event, where three raffle winners won the chance to join Goff and his team in the investigations. The event runs from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and general admission seat-
Data Breach Continued from page 3
close communication with state and federal law enforcement, legal teams and cyber forensics experts,” said Cavaan. SPS has contracted IDX, a cybersecurity company that offers identity theft monitoring. Asked about the price tag attached to the credit monitoring services, Mayor Domenic Sarno said, “We’ll spend what we have to spend.” Superintendent Sonia Dinnall shared that when the department experienced a data breach in 2020, IDX
ing starts at 6 p.m. General admission is first come, first served for $5 a person. VIP tickets are $15 and allow attendees to enter at 5:15 p.m., and gain access to reserved seating, hands on experience with the paranormal equipment and a 45-minute private group session with Goff and the Agawam Paranormal team. Both ticket tiers enter attendees into eligibility to win a promotional “swag bag” giveaway and a raffle to attend to a final investigation at Wilbraham’s Old Meeting House on Main Street. Costumes are encouraged to give the event an “authentic reveal” since the date is so close to Halloween, according to a press release. The Friends of Wilbraham Seniors has supported the needs of area seniors since 1985. The nonprofit’s mission is to provide seniors with resources they might not be able to have otherwise,
either through Senior Center programming or financial support. Agawam Paranormal is a “family and friends based team that conducts investigations locally that are suspected of having paranormal activity,” according to its website. Goff founded it 30 years ago and has been involved in paranormal investigations ever since due to the “experiences that I had witnessed and could never adequately explain, even to myself,” the website states. Friends member and event Co-Chair Kathy Sowa told Reminder Publishing in April that events and fundraisers like these help keep regular programming alive at the Senior Center and bring more people in to see what it has to offer. Local author and historian Dave Bourcier will also join the event to sell his most recent publication, “Wilbraham: A Journey Through History.”
Those interested can find the event sign-up sheet and more information at friendsofwilbrahamseniors.org/events. The group asks for filled out sheets to be returned by Oct. 1 with either cash or a check to the Friends of Wilbraham Se-
niors’ office at 40 Post Office Park, Suite 747, or the at the Senior Center. Both the information and payment method should be enclosed in an envelope labeled “paranormal.” There will be no admittance at the door.
charged a certain dollar amount per employee. The School Department employs more than 4,800 people. The data breach also affects former employees. In the 24 hours after SPS was notified about the breach, Cavaan said the School Department has been reaching out to families and staff. She said the website is being updated as information becomes available. Considering why Springfield Public Schools may have been targeted, Dinnall said, “I’m just as baffled as anyone else.” She cautioned that data breaches are common and people should be “hypervigilant” in safeguard-
ing their personal, identifiable information. “The federal government needs to act on this.” Sarno said of the recent rash of municipal cyberattacks in Massachusetts. The city of Everett experienced a cyberattack the same day Spring-
field’s School Department was hit. On Sept. 16, the School Department in Sutton was attacked. In reaffirming his decision not to pay ransom demands in exchange for access to School Department systems, Sarno said, “You become an ATM ... Once you give
in, that knock at the door will come again.” Reminder Publishing reached out to the Springfield Education Association, the educators’ union, for comment but did not hear back by press time.
The Wilbraham Senior Center will host Agawam Paranormal to discuss their findings from paranormal investigations at three Wilbraham locations. Reminder Publishing file photo
TheReminder.com Every week we will provide you with a complete listings of deaths from the preceding week from throughout Greater Springfield. We are doing this as a convenience to our readers in case you miss an obit in the daily paper. We hope you find this useful and that you will refer to it weekly.
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CHICOPEE Barbara E. Boron Sr. Constance Cawley SSJ Edith H. Gaudreau Irene A. Horak Jane H. Krupa Margaret A. Metcalf Elizabeth Mitchell EAST LONGMEADOW Dorothy B. Moreau Henry Earl Record II HAMPDEN David J. Deroche Barbara Shea
HOLYOKE Norman Phillip Charette Claire Grenier Ann Shanahan
Fay LaBrecque Armand L. Quesnel
INDIAN ORCHARD Esmerelda Ferreira
SOUTH HADLEY Jonathan W. Bemben Mary Jo Maydew Peter J. Moriarty
LONGMEADOW Marthe Beauchamp (Laframboise) James E. Fenlason Laurinda Hatch Corrinne A. Magotra
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DINING ENTERTAINMENT www.TheReminder.com
Twisted Sister 50th anniversary tour comes to Big E Oct. 2 By Debbie Gardner
were originally announced due to health issues. “It was doing it, then not doing it, then doing it, to contacting Sebastian,” founding guitarist and Twisted Sister manager Jay Jay French told Reminder Publishing of the convoluted road that brought the band back together for this anniversary tour. Ironically, it was Snider, French added, who had convinced him and fellow founding member Eddie Ojeda to originally commit to the tour. The last time the band performed together was a one-off at their induction into the Heavy
dgardner@thereminder.com
WEST SPRINGFIELD — If you wanna rock this fall, the Big E has the show for you. Legendary ‘80s heavy metal band Twisted Sister is slated to take the Big E Arena stage at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 2 for the only Northeast stop on their 50th Anniversary Tour. And it’s a tour with its own twist, as Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach will be replacing the band’s longtime lead singer Dee Snider. Snider had to pull out of the tour shortly after the tour dates
Metal Hall of Fame in 2023. French said Twisted Sister fans should still expect a show worthy of their legend. “We replaced Dee with a bona fide superstar,” French said, adding that Twisted Sister isn’t the only iconic band that’s seen changes to their talent lineup and still gone on to produce great shows. Freddie Mercury, frontman for Queen, was replaced by an American Idol contestant, Adam Lambert. Sammy Hagar replaced Arrowsmith’s David Lee Roth. When fans want the music, bands find a way to keep providing the magic, French said.
“And Sebastian is a big fan of Twisted Sister,” French shared. French said Twisted Sister is ready to give fans a night to remember when they take the stage at the Big E. The audience can expect to hear their legendary rock anthems “I Wanna Rock” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It” as well as deep cuts like “Under the Blade” and “Burn in Hell.” The current setlist includes two of French’s admitted favorites from the band’s early albums, “We’re Gonna Make It” and “You Can’t Stop Rock ‘n Roll.” Bach is expected to add at least two Skid Row covers, “I Remem-
ber You” and “Youth Gone Wild,” to the setlist mix. “If they’ve seen us before, they know what to expect,” French said of the upcoming Big E show. “If they haven’t seen us, they will see a performance that equals or exceeds the legend that Twisted Sister has created.” Twisted Sister will share the stage that night with fellow 1980s rock band Tesla. Advance tickets are required, and the concert is expected to be a sellout. To get tickets to Twisted Sister at the Big E Arena, which includes admission to the fair, visit tinyurl.com/TSist.
Provisions Picks: Chenin Blanc, crown jewel of Loire Valley By Provisions
such an exciting region. • Chai de la Dive “Les Moulins” Saumur Blanc ($24.99): Chai de la Dive is the second label of the renowned Guiberteau winery offering more affordable wines sourced from their practicing organic neighbors in Saumur rather than the Guiberteau estate vineyards. We highlighted their Cabernet Franc. But it was Chenin Blanc, not Cabernet Franc, that first brought Guiberteau international acclaim, and you can taste why even in their negociant offering. Assertive, expressive, and intensely mineral, showing notes of pear, anisette, honeysuckle and lemon curd. • Domaine Pichot Vouvray
Special to Reminder Publishing
So far this summer, we’ve shined the spotlight on two grape varieties indigenous to France’s Loire Valley: Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It makes sense, we thought, to round the summer out by highlighting another Loire gem, perhaps the crown jewel. We’re by no means doing the region the justice it deserves — this is, after all, one of the most diverse, vibrant, and innovative wine producing regions anywhere in the world — but we’ll consider our job well-done if we can bring more attention to these still-underappreciated wines. To keep things simple, we’ve looked at the Loire through the lens of grape variety, though variables like producer, “terroir,” appellation and sub-appelation, farming practice, winemaking methodology, winemaking philosophy — whew — are all important in shaping our experiences as wine enjoyers, whether we know it or not. Now, we turn to Chenin Blanc! Sauvignon Blanc gets all the glory, but Chenin has just as much claim, if not more, to being the Loire Valley’s flagship white variety, if not by quantity produced, then by quality. It’s found a second home in South Africa, where climate and vintner steer it towards riper, more full-bodied, concentrated, textured expressions. These are wines of power, of intensity and, often, of great quality. In its birthplace, along the Loire River, we see something different: racy acidity, freshness, clarity, minerality. The cooler climate, the soil composition, anchored by a crumbly porous limestone known locally as tuffeau, and the winegrowing-winemaking practices yield wines of comparative subtlety, wines of tension, emphasizing Chenin’s stony, smokey, floral, beeswax-y aromatics as much as its fruit-character. That said, Loire Valley Chenin is by no means one single thing. You’ll find something different in Saumur than in Vouvray, a mere 25 miles further inland, where the temperature swings are sharper, the humidity more persistent, the vineyards more exposed to westerly winds. Even within a tiny growing area like Vouvray, you’ll taste differences, representative of minute differences in place, people, and process. It’s this that makes the Loire Valley
LOWER PRICES TO BOOST YOUR BUDGET!
($21.99) Many people associate Vouvray with “sparkling” or “sweet,” and rightfully so. Sparkling Vouvray is an excellent, relatively affordable champagne alternative, and some of the world’s most compelling sweet wine hails from this small appellation. Just as deserving of your attention, however, are the appellation’s still whites, made from Chenin Blanc, fermented completely dry. Pichot’s family has been involved in Loire Valley winemaking since the mid-18th century. The Domaine exclusively farms and vinifies Chenin Blanc, all grown within the Vouvray AOC and cellared in caves carved out beneath the river-ad-
jacent hills. This, their entry-level offering, is a riper Vouvray, still faithful to the style: round, almost glassy in texture, but not at all heavy, offering notes of ripe flowers, pear, quince, apple skin and wildflower honey. • Breton “La Dilettante” Vouvray Sec ($35.99) Pierre and Catherine Breton, husband and wife, are natural winemakers through and through. Famous for their Cabernet Franc, they also work with small quantities of Chenin Blanc — and with great results. “La Dilletant” is Catherine’s project, focusing solely on old-
vine Chenin Blanc grown in Vouvray. Any cuvee bearing the nickname has seen her hand in its making. This Vouvray Sec (dry) is keenly flinty, a lean, mean, steely wine from front to back. But don’t be fooled, there’s fruit here, pure and ripe, but held in tension, almost taught, stretched over a frame of bracing minerality. The Pichot Vouvray is like a warm ray of sunshine on a crisp September day. This wine is like jumping into the ocean. It’s amazing how different two wines can be, made from grapes grown just a few miles apart. Not Just Pizza!
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The Longmeadow Planning Board will open a hybrid public hearing on October 7th, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Longmeadow Municipal Offices, Greenwood Conference Room (231 Maple Rd). This hearing will be for the Site and Design Review Application of Ramzi Natour for a proposed 36x26' detached ADU (accessory dwelling unit) at 19 Edward Circle. Application materials may be viewed in the Planning and Community Development Office, or on the Planning Board's active case files webpage: htt ps://www.longmeadowma.gov/DocumentCente r/Index/389. The remote meeting link may be accessed from the meeting agenda posted on the Town's agenda center webpage: https://www.longmeadowma.gov/AgendaCent er/Planning-Board-17. (September 17, September 24)
The East Longmeadow Town Council will hold a public hearing on October 13, 2026 at 6:15 p.m. in the Media Room of the Council on Aging located at 328 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, to review changes to the general bylaws as recommended by the Bylaw Review Committee pursuant to Article 9, Section 3 of the East Longmeadow Home Rule Charter. The public hearing may also be attended via Zoom webinar with the below link: https://eastlongmeadowma.zoom.us/j/8982903 1708?pwd=Io6VkSKDcvGlRzvrfdlSKGHqCS6E 1l.1 Passcode: 098168 For the Council Jackie Sullivan Town Clerk/Clerk of the Council (September 24, October 1)
CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Docket No. HD26P1971EA 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: Caroline A Wiejek Date of Death: 06/19/2026 To all interested persons: A Petition for Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Karyn M Wendell of Centerville 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: Karyn M Wendell of Centerville MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without 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 10/13/2026. 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: September 14, 2026 Rosemary A. Saccomani, Register of Probate (September 24)
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS Probate and Family Court Department HAMPDEN, Division Docket No. HD23P0799PM
INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE Docket No. HD26P1947EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Hampden Division Estate of: Philip G. Harris Also Known As: Philip Gordon Harris Date of Death: 06/04/2026 To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Gabriella B. Genia of Washington DC a Will has been admitted to informal probate. Gabriella B. Genia of Washington DC 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 24)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SHADE TREE HEARING Town of Longmeadow
EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE
In accordance with M.G.L Ch. 87, the Tree Warden will hold a public hearing on Thurs. October 1, 2026 at 1:00 PM at 916 Williams St., Longmeadow regarding the removal of a public shade tree located at: 916 Williams St. (Redfern side) 15” Norway maple. Any person interested in inquiring or commenting on this tree should attend the hearing, or contact the Tree Warden Leah Wallner either by calling the DPW at (413) 567-3400 or emailing lwallner@longmeadowma.gov prior to the start of the hearing. (September 24, October 1) EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 and via Zoom webinar: https://eastlongmeadowma.zoom.us/j/8292506 7839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVEyea 0ljsvr.1 Meeting ID: 829 2506 7839 Passcode: 215731 Case SP-2026-08: Request for Special Permit for Daragan’s Dog Care professional dog daycare and overnight boarding, at 173 Shaker Road (Assessor’s Parcel ID 18-11-0) located in the Industrial zoning district. Applicant: Annemarie Doyle, 169 Wheeler Avenue, Springfield, MA 01118 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 (September 24, October 1) EAST LONGMEADOW PLANNING BOARD PUBLIC HEARING LEGAL NOTICE The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 and via Zoom webinar: https://eastlongmeadowma.zoom.us/j/8292506 7839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVEyea 0ljsvr.1 Meeting ID: 829 2506 7839 Passcode: 215731 Case SP-2026-07: Request for Special Permit for rebrand from Sunoco to Nouria gas station, at 204 North Main Street (Assessor’s Parcel ID 25-5-0) located in the Business zoning district. Applicant: Nouria Energy Retail, INC, 326 Clark Street, Worcester, MA 01606 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 (September 24, October 1)
The East Longmeadow Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM at the Pleasant View Senior Center, 328 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA 01028 and via Zoom webinar: https://eastlongmeadowma.zoom.us/j/8292506 7839?pwd=BrR4wHWZesHuXWoyDYSVEyea 0ljsvr.1 Meeting ID: 829 2506 7839 Passcode: 215731 Case SP-2026-09: Request for Special Permit for Revive Real Food + Cafe, at 24 Shaker Road (Assessor’s Parcel ID 27-1660) located in the Business zoning district. Applicant: Revive Food Corporation, 30 Bel Air Drive, Longmeadow, MA 01106 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 (September 24, October 1) INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE Docket No. HD26P1931EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Hampden Division Estate of: Carolyn Edith Whipple Also Known As: Carolyn G. Whipple a/k/a/ Carolyn Whipple Date of Death: March 11, 2026 To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner James A. Whipple Jr. of Longmeadow MA Petitioner David S. Whipple of South Hadley MA a Will has been admitted to informal probate. James Whipple Jr. of Longmeadow MA David S. Whipple of South Hadley 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 24)
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IDScan.net Provides Notification of Data Security Incident New Orleans, LA – On or around September 1, 2026, IDScan.net received information indicating that certain data may have been accessed without authorization. Upon this discovery, IDScan.net took immediate steps to secure our systems and engaged a team of third-party specialists to help determine the full nature and scope of the incident. The investigation is currently ongoing. While the investigation is ongoing, IDScan.net has determined that an unauthorized third party may have accessed and/or copied certain customer information stored within their accounts on the IDScan.net cloud. The types of information contained within the affected data may include full names and driver’s license or other government-issued identification numbers. To be diligent, IDScan.net is conducting a comprehensive review of the potentially affected information to identify potentially impacted individuals and will provide those individuals with a notice, including instructions on how to enroll in free credit monitoring services. At this time, there is no evidence of ongoing unauthorized access to data, and potentially impacted records are those that entered the system before September 1, 2026. Potentially impacted individuals are encouraged to enroll in the free credit monitoring and identity protection services IDScan.net is making available and to monitor their account statements for suspicious activity and to detect errors. IDScan.net has established a toll-free call center to answer questions about the incident and to address related concerns. The hotline number is 1-833-516-2980. The hotline operates Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM EST, excluding holidays. IDScan.net sincerely regrets any concern that this incident may cause, and we remain committed to supporting our customers and assisting law enforcement in their investigation. (September 24, 2026)
To all persons interested in the estate Judy M. Ziegler of East Longmeadow in said County, a person under Conservatorship, single. A petition has been presented to said Court for license to sell at private sale – certain real estate of said Judy M. Ziegler for her maintenance. If you desire to object thereto you or your attorney should file a written appearance in said Court at 50 State Street, Springfield, MA, before 10:00 a.m. on the 30th day of October 2026, the return day of this petition. Witness, CLAUDINE T. STOUDEMIRE, Esquire, First Justice of said Court this tenth day of September 2026. Rosemary A. Saccomani, Register (September 24) East Longmeadow Public Schools – Mapleshade Elementary School Roof Project MSBA Accelerated Repair THIS PROJECT IS BEING ELECTRONICALLY BID AND HARD COPY BIDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Please review the instructions in the bid documents on how to register as an electronic bidder. The bids are to be prepared and submitted at www.ProjectDoc.com. Tutorials and instructions on how to complete the electronic bid documents are available online (click on the "Tutorial" tab at the bottom footer). The East Longmeadow Public Schools, 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow, MA 01028, the Awarding Authority, invites sealed bids from General Contractors for the Roof Replacement Project for the: Mapleshade Elementary School – 175 Mapleshade Ave. East Longmeadow, MA 01028 in accordance with the documents prepared by Habeeb and Associates Architects. The Project consists of the following: The Mapleshade Elementary School Roof Project consists of the removal and replacement of approximately 37,000 SF of 60 Mil PVC fully adhered roof covering. The scope also includes ½" Coverboard, 2 layers of Polyiso (tapered), and mechanically fastened with vapor retarder at sloped roof. Roof edge flashing, masonry flashing, and fascia are also included in this scope of work. The project also includes consideration for a portion of the roof to be structurally upgraded to support future solar panels. This scope would include the installation of structural steel framing in support of the existing wood frame structure. The removal, salvage and reinstallation of acoustic ceiling tiles and grids are required to facilitate the steel framing work. The removal and replacement of approximately 300 LF of brick masonry is also required. The work is estimated to cost $1,900,000. Bids are subject to M.G.L. c.149 §44A-J & to minimum wage rates as required by M.G.L. c.149 §§26 to 27H inclusive. General bidders must be certified by the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) as Contractors in the General Building Construction category. Bidders must include a current DCAMM Certificate of Eligibility and a signed DCAMM Update Statement. General Bids will be received on October 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM and publicly opened, forthwith online. Filed Sub-bids for Division 4 – Masonry, Division 7 – Roofing and Flashing, Division 22 – Plumbing, and Division 26 – Electrical Work will be received until October 8, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. and publicly opened, forthwith online. Filed sub-bidders must be DCAMM certified in the trade for which they are bidding and include DCAMM Sub-Bidder Certificate of Eligibility and signed DCAMM Sub-Bidders Update Statement. All Bids should be submitted electronically online at www.ProjectDoc.com and received no later than the date and time specified above. The ProjectDoc project number is #262095. General bids shall be accompanied by a bid deposit that is not less than five percent (5%) of the greatest possible bid amount (considering all alternates), and made payable to the Town of East Longmeadow. Bid Forms and Contract Documents will be available for download at www.ProjectDoc.com (may be viewed electronically and hardcopy requested) or at Nashoba Blue, Inc. at 433 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749 (978-568-1167) on Wednesday September 23, 2026 after 9:00 AM. The Pre-Bid Conference and site visit will be on September 29, 2026 starting at 3:00 PM. 3:00 pm – Mapleshade Elementary School – 175 Mapleshade Ave. East Longmeadow, MA 01028 (September 24)
CITATION ON PETITION FOR ORDER OF COMPLETE SETTLEMENT Docket No. HD25P0184EA 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: Paul Ernest Surprenant Also known as: Paul E Surprenant Date of Death: 06/23/2024 A Petition for Order of Complete Settlement has been filed by Heather Santana of Ashby MA requesting that the court enter a formal Decree of Complete Settlement including a determination of testacy and heirs at law, the allowance of a final account and other such relief as may be requested in the Petition. 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 10/08/2026. 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 day, action may be taken without further notice to you. WITNESS, Hon. Claudine T. Stoudemire, First Justice of this Court Date: September 10, 2026 Rosemary A. Saccomani, Register of Probate (September 24)
APARTMENTS FOR RENT LONGMEADOW-Single Family House Share 3 Rooms For Rent/1 Room Rented-2 Left. Rent $750/$850+utilities. Text 413-539-0371
ARTICLES FOR SALE
Raymour & Flanagan Lamont Reclining Power Sofa Removable backs. Recliners & USB charging on both ends. Like new/7 months old. Beige, 88"L X 37"W. Asking $900. Call 413-562-6514 or text 413-250-8731
AUTO SERVICES CASH FOR JUNK AND REPAIRABLE CARS Free Towing! Friendly, Fast, Same Day Service!
Call/Text 413-219-6839 Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398
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
WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS | THEREMINDER.COM
CEILINGS
HANDYMAN
PRIME PAINTING
Experienced carpenter (30yrs.) Dependable, fair. Free estimates on repairs & home improvements. Call Gary 413-233-6418
Ceiling repairs, texturing, plastering, texture removal and skim coating. Fully insured, free estimates. 594-4479
DRYWALL ROGER'S PAINTING, DRYWALL, STUCCO AND CARPENTRY SINCE 1986! 413-364-3157
ELECTRICIAN JAMES FERRIS ELECTRICIAN Lic.#E16303
Insured. 50 yrs. experience. No job too small. Call 413-330-3682
SAM’S ELECTRICAL 5-STAR RATED ELECTRICIAN NO JOB TOO SMALL Real person. Fast answers. Fast response. Exceptional customer service. 24/7 Emergency Service Available Licensed & Insured Call or Text: 413-564-4054
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-1 A DUMP TRUCK Attic, cellars, garages cleaned out. Wood and brush removal. Scrap metal removal. Snowplowing/Removal (413)569-0794 (413)374-5377
A.R.A. JUNK & FURNITURE REMOVAL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL DEMOLITION SHEDS/PATIOS HOUSE CLEANOUTS Appliances & Garage We Recycle & Donate
PETE 413-433-0356
Free Estimates Credit cards accepted Same day service!
CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOWS & HOUSE WASHING Windows cleaned. Free estimates, fully insured. Call Paul 413-237-2053
Interior & Exterior. Hourly & Daily Rates + Free Estimates. Senior Discount. Call 413-286-4164
DK POWERWASHING HOMES-ROOFS-DECKS-GUTTERS dkpowerwashing@comcast.net
413-297-4276
GENERAL SERVICES 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 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
MISCELLANEOUS
GREEN TEAM LANDSCAPING 413-563-4663 Spring Clean-ups, Mowing Service, Bobcat Service, Patio and Retaining Wall Installation; All Other Landscaping Needs. VERY COMPETITIVE PRICING!
DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB games! Choice Pkg $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devic-es. HBO Max included for 3 mos w/Choice Package or higher. No contract or hidden fees! Restrictions apply. IVS 866-859-0405
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
Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with d e t a i l s ! 1 - 8 5 5 - 5 2 6 - 1 0 6 0 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258
HELP WANTED Full-time Payroll/Bookkeeping Specialist in Wilbraham. Amazing opportunity for the right person. Must be experienced. Email bookkeeping opportunity26@gmail.com with resume and interest.
HOME IMPROVEMENT AARDVARK PAINTING & HOME IMPROVEMENTS INC. Kitchen & Bath Remodel Services. Water Damage Repairs! Quality since 1964. (413) 596-4841
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
CHAMELEON
ABC MASONRY & BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
REMODELING & PAINTING
When it's time for a change
CALL THE CHAMELEON
- INTERIOR & EXTERIOR -
Remodeling Kitchens, Baths, and so much more! Residential/Commercial
Fully Insured · Free Estimates
All brick, block concrete; concrete steps & walk-ways; new paver walk-ways; paver patios & retaining walls. Chimneys, foundations, hatchways, new basement windows installed and repaired. New hatchway & bulkhead doors. Sump pumps and french drain systems installed. Foundations pointed and stuccoed. Free estimates (413)569-1611 or (413)374-5377
TMR MASON CONTRACTOR All types of masonry and concrete: brick, block, stone stucco. Chimney repairs, foundation repairs, bulkheads, concrete sidewalks, stairs and patios, Fully licensed/ insured. Todd: 413-575-3839
413-351-1147
MISCELLANEOUS
GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade. 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-299-7135
DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK, BOAT, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1888-305-7286 today!
Joseph’s Handyman Company. Carpentry, remodeling, interior/exterior painting, floors, tile, stairs, drywall, cabinets, plumbing. Professional artist. Small jobs ok. Home improvement. Projects designed for your needs. Since 1985. Call Joe, 413-364-7038
LANDSCAPING
Panzetti
LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION Landscape excavation, grading, lawn installation, seeding and hydroseeding, overgrown shrub and tree removal, mini-excavator and skid steer services. Call 413-478-0522 Landscape design, mulch and stone beds, hedge trimming (specialist), shrub and perennial installation. Call 413-735-3189
EAST LONGMEADOW | SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026
LANDSCAPING
HEALTH & MEDICAL
Personal Touch Garden Service
D&S Home Improvement Quality Work at a Fair Price! Licensed and Insured Dave 413-592-9490
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NO MORE CLEANING OUT GUTTERS! Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a non-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-855-925-2643 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details. AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER? STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 877-461-0698. Have zip code ready when calling! BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1877-543-9189 Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No longterm contract, no hidden fees free activation. All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866
End your tax worries today. Let us make your tax problem our priority. Scared, stuck with high tax amounts? Our A+ tax professionals can help. Free consultation. Priority Tax 855959-2267 Home Break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-877-9070316 Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930 Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends soon. 844-501-3208 MobileHelp, America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936 Need cash quickly? We buy houses in any condition. Get a fair cash offer within 24 hours! Call today. Liz Buys Houses: 833-359-4707 No more cleaning gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter backed by no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty. Call 1-833-610-1936 to schedule FREE inspection/estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Military & Seniors get additional 10% off. Limited time. Restrictions apply, see rep for details. Peace of mind & early detection - Now more than ever, it’s important to get screened for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life Line Screening is simple & painless. 833-970-4172 Pest control: Protect your home from pests safely. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders & more. Locally owned & affordable. For service or inspection today! 877-916-2103 Have zip code ready! Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a free 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Free quote. Ask about first application special! 877-484-8583 Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the ADS Network! For more information www.communitypublishers.com/category/all-products SunSetter. America's Number One Awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Save $350 today! 855-914-1148 TOP DOLLAR PAID for old vintage Guitars! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Grecsch, Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Etc. 1930's to 1980's. Call 866433-8277 Water damage cleanup & restoration: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family & home value! 877-318-6832. Have zip code ready! Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971
PAINTING & WALLPAPERING CHET & SON PAINTING
Interior and exterior painting, wallpaper, removal. Free estimates. Insured. Reliable. 413-772-9819 PRIME PAINTING Fully insured, interior/exterior, carpentry, drywall, cabinet finishing and detailing. References upon request. Free estimates. 594-4479 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING Interior, exterior, wallpapering, minor carpentry. Low, low prices. Free estimates. Steve 413310-5099; 860-741-5588
REAL ESTATE RENTALS Spacious 4-bed home, 145 Yale St, Spfld. Large single-family home with off-street parking and fenced backyard on corner lot, awaits new tenants! -Kitchen updated -Brand new windows and new installation -2 full bathrooms -Finished basement with laundry area -No pets Call Billy at [413 222-8410]
ROOFING NEW ROOFS-REPAIRS-CLEANING Siding and windows, decks built and repaired. Fully insured. MA Lic #CSFA106255. David Germaine 413-250-3263
TAG SALES ESTATE SALE EVERYTHING MUST GO / ONE WEEKEND ONLY SEPT 25th - 26th, 9am - 3pm – (NO EARLY BIRDS) 61 STEPHANIE CIRCLE, SPRINGFIELD • Furniture, curio cabinet, loveseats, kitchenware, tools, crystal/glassware, costume jewelry, and more! • PLEASE NOTE: CASH ONLY, ALL SALES FINAL, NO PARKING IN ESTATE DRIVEWAY P/U ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE
TANK REMOVAL UNDERGROUND ABOVEGROUND BASEMENT TANK REMOVAL Oil removal available. Permits obtained. Fully licensed/insured. Ground Breakers 566-2250; 530-2266
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WANTED Always buying antiques watches jewelry gold coins art military signs posters cameras toys video games action figures Star Wars vintage electronics amplifiers receivers' radios HAM equipment speakers' musical instruments guitars saxophones horns amplifiers sports memorabilia clocks plus more one item or entire estates. 413-206-8688
WANTED TO BUY Wanted! CASH for: ANYTHING OF SIGNIFICANT VALUE! Machinist, Specialty, and Mechanic Tools, Electronics/Audio, Sports Cards, Vintage Toys, Antiques/Collectibles, much more! Call/Text Sam 413-531-5381
DON’T FALL BEHIND ON YOUR CAR’S MAINTENANCE!
FRANK’S AUTO SERVICE, LLC 413.734.9723 Family Owned & Operated Since 1962
528 North Main Street • East Longmeadow
SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLE CAN BE FOUND IN THIS EDITION. ALL PUZZLES & SOLUTIONS CAN BE FOUND ONLINE AT WWW.THEREMINDER.COM/PUZZLE-CORNER/
SEPTEMBER 24 - 30, 2026 | EAST LONGMEADOW
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THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS
ALL THAT’S
2026
FALL
Prepare your landscape for the change of seasons
Drought stress makes plants, even established ones, more susceptible to life threatening insects and disease.
By Melinda Myers
A
Gardening author and TV/radio host Special to Reminder Publishing
s summer comes to an end, it’s time to prepare landscapes for fall and winter. Proper fall care helps increase plants’ winter survival, supports pollinators, and promotes the overall health, longevity, and beauty of a landscape. Here’s a list of tips to get your lawn and garden ready for the change of seasons.
DON’T STOP SPRINKLING YET
KEEP UP THE GARDEN CHORES
Remove weeds in gardens and mixed borders. Cooler temperatures and a shorter to-do list make it easier to squeeze in more time for this task. Eliminating weeds now means fewer weeds to pull next year.
GIVE IT ONE LAST CUT
Continue watering as needed. This is especially important for new plantings, evergreens and moisture-loving plants; but don’t overlook established trees.
Don’t pack away the mower just yet. Keep cutting the lawn as long as it keeps growing. Mow over fall leaves and leave them and grass clippings on the lawn. The short clippings and quarter-size See LANDSCAPE on page 2
A PRODUCT OF
EL | CH | SP
WANTED!
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WE PAY 20x FACE VALUE PRE-1964 SILVER COINS!
WE BUY COINS! - GOLD COINS - OLD PAPER MONIES PAYING 20X FACE VALUE OR MORE FOR ALL:
- PRE-1964 SILVER COINS! -
We Pay On The Spot! “WE CAN ALSO COME TO YOU”
Buying Gold & Silver Including Sterling Silver Flatware Broken & Scrap Gold Jewelry
n O y a We P ot! p The S
OR MORE!
WE WANT YOUR
MILITARY MEMORABILIA ay On P e W pot! S e h T
GERMAN NAZI DAGGERS • SWORDS KNIVES • GUNS & GUN PARTS HELMETS • BAYONETS & MUCH MORE
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Olde Tavern Antiques
WE BUY ENTIRE
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BUYING FOR OVER 30 YEARS
Open Mon–Sat 10am-3pm or by appointment
Dean Reutter 860-836-0983 (Cell phone) Holly Reutter 860-965-9773 (Cell phone)
www.oldetavernantiques.com 11 South Road (Rt. 83) Unit 1, SOMERS, CT 860-749-4653 (GOLD)
ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
LANDSCAPE Continued from page 1
leaf pieces add nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Just make a second pass with the mower, if needed, to cut the leaves down in size.
USE THOSE LEAVES
Put some of the fall leaves to work in gardens as a mulch. They insulate plant roots from temperature extremes, help suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and improve the soil as they decompose. Leaves also provide insulation and winter protection for a variety of beneficial insects, toads and frogs
.DON’T WASTE GARDEN TRIMMINGS
Start a compost pile by mixing fall leaves with other landscape trimmings. Don’t add invasive plants, aggressive weeds or those gone to seed. Leave insect and disease infested or chemically treated plant debris out of the pile. Don’t add fat, meat and other animal products that can attract rodents. Moisten and occasionally turn the pile to speed up the process. Soon it will be a wonderful soil conditioner to put back into the landscape.
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RESIST THE URGE TO CUT
Leave healthy perennials stand for winter. Many provide motion, form and texture to the winter garden. This subtle winter beauty may not be as colorful as your summer garden, but it adds interest to what may be an otherwise drab winter landscape. The standing perennials also support songbirds and beneficial insects. Seed heads of many perennials attract seed-eating songbirds, adding color and motion throughout the winter. They also provide winter homes and shelter for beneficial insects that pollinate plants, help manage insect pests and more.
GET RID OF THE BAD STUFF
Remove diseased plant debris and those infested with plant-damaging insects. Removing these from the garden reduces the source of future infestations which means healthier plants with less pest management required. Local municipalities can provide guidance on disposing of pest infested plant debris.
LET THE FROST GUIDE YOU
Wait for several hard frosts when cutting perennials back in the fall. This allows the plant to maximize energy produced and store it in the roots for healthy growth next spring. Make the cut two to three inches above the ground to avoid damaging the crown of the plant.
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FENCE WHERE NEEDED
Protect plants and gardens susceptible to animal damage. A cylinder of hardware cloth at least four feet high sunk several inches into the ground can reduce the risk of rabbit, deer and vole damage. A five-feet-tall fence around small gardens, 8 feet by 13 feet or smaller, with a secure gate can reduce the risk of most critter damage. If fencing isn’t a practical option, consider using repellent. Applying repellent before animals begin feeding provides the greatest success. Look for rain- and snow-resistant repellent, allowing gardeners to reapply less often. Once fall landscape chores are complete, take time to clean, repair, sharpen and store tools for the winter and winterize the lawn mower. Move granular landscape care products to a dry place and liquids to a frost-free location. Store them in a secure location away from pets and children. Take advantage of the often-cooler fall days to prepare gardens for winter. Time spent now can help reduce winter damage and save time as the next garden season begins. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
|3|
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631 Center St. (Rt. 21) / Mass Tpke Exit 54 Ludlow, MA • (413) 589-7071 www.randallsfarm.net
OPEN EVERY DAY 7AM-8PM
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Randall’s Apple Cider Donuts Fresh Baked Pies Apple Cake Apple Crisp Local Apple Cider Crisp New England APPLES
ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
Pick your own!
N
othing says “autumn” more than heading out to an apple orchard or pumpkin patch to choose your own seasonal bounty! The following is a listing of the pumpkin patches and farmstands, and pick-your-own apple orchards in the region, courtesy of the Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture website. Be sure to check out the website of each farm before venturing out to check on hours for farm stands and conditions in pick-you-own fields. To check out what else is available during the fall season, including the location of farmer’s markets, buylocalfood.org
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PUMPKIN PATCHES AND FARMSTANDS:
PICK-YOUR-OWN APPLE ORCHARDS:
Plum Brook Farm 416 Bay Road, Amherst, MA 01002 info@plumbrookfarm.com plumbrookfarm.com
Quonquont Farm 9 North Street, Whately, MA 01093 413-575-4680 info@quonquont.com quonquont.com
Fletcher Farm 17 Gunn Road, Southampton, MA, 413-203-1350 fletchcows@aol.com fletcherfamilyfarm.com Red Fire Farm 7 Carver Street, Granby, MA, 413-467-7645 thefarmers@redfirefarm.com redfirefarm.com Austin Brothers Valley Farm 270 West Street, Belchertown, MA 01007 413-668-6842 413-967-9470 austin.farmkids@gmail.com Austinsfarm.com
Kielbasa Orchards 290 Bay Road, Hadley, MA 01035 413-455-6687 kielbasa.orchards@gmail.com kielbasaorchards.com Plum Brook Farm 416 Bay Road, Amherst, MA 01002 info@plumbrookfarm.com plumbrookfarm.com/ Park Hill Orchard 82 Park Hill Road, Easthampton, MA 01027 413-303-0335 support@parkhillorchard.com parkhillorchard.com
Bashista Orchards 160 East Street, Southampton, MA 01073 413-527-9091 skyline@crocker.com gotcider.net
New Salem Preserves 67 South Main Street, New Salem, MA 01355 978-544-3437 cbhillman@gmail.com newsalempreserves.com
Clarkdale Fruit Farms 303 Upper Road, Deerfield, MA 01342 413-772-6797 ben@clarkdalefruitfarms.com clarkdalefruitfarms.com
Pine Hill Orchards 248 Greenfield Road, Colrain, MA 01340 413-624-3325 info@pinehillorchards.com pinehillorchards.com
Sentinel Farm 37 Cottage St., Belchertown, MA 01007 413-559-8435 Sentinelfarm37@gmail.com sentinelfarm.com Roundhill Orchards 1 Douglas Road, Southampton, MA 01073 413-562-4985 andyappleseed@gmail.com Phoenix Fruit Farm 249 Sabin Street, Belchertown, MA 01007, USA elly@phoenixfruitfarm.com phoenixfruitfarm.com Kosinski Farms 420 Russelville Road, Westfield, MA 01085 413-896-0475 kosinskifarms@comcast.net kosinskifarms.net
Fern Valley Farms 758 Main Street, Wilbraham, MA 01095, USA 413-367-4422 fernvalleyllcoperations@gmail.com fernvalleyfarmsllc.com/ Mountain Orchard, LLC 676 Main Road, Granville, MA 01034 413-357-8877 eajensen@juno.com mountainorchard.com Breezelands Orchards 1791 Southbridge Rd, Warren, MA, USA 413-436-7100 marktuttle230@gmail.com breezelandsorchards.com/ Information courtesy of Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
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Too much Halloween haul? How to repurpose that extra candy
W
hat can be better than spending a day with friends, decked out in costume as you accumulate a mountain of sweet treats? That’s what trick-ortreaters do every Halloween, and sometimes the cache of candy is more than a person can consume in a lifetime. When October rolls into November and Thanksgiving is on the horizon, few people want to be staring at a witch’s cauldron full of chocolate bars. Rather than be wasteful and throw it away, they can utilize that candy in many different ways.
S’MORES COOKIE
Turn miniature chocolate bars into a camp-
fire treat with a cookie twist. Press premade cookie dough into a round cast iron skillet and bake until cooked throughout. Add chopped up pieces of chocolate and marshmallows on top, and place under the broiler a few minutes until melted and gooey. Slice up to serve or dig in with spoons.
CONFECTIONARY PIZZA
Purchase premade pizza dough or make your own. Bake the dough on a pan with no toppings. Afterwards, spread a layer of peanut butter or hazelnut spread on top. Then set up a fixings bar with various candies that others can add to their
pizza slices. Options include chocolate candies, miniature pretzels, marshmallows, or gummy candies.
STAINED GLASS COOKIES
Turn hard candies (like Jolly Ranchers¨) into works of art. Fill sugar cookie cutouts with hard candies in the middle. When the cookies bake, the candies will melt and then turn soft after cooling. See CANDY on page 11
WORTHINGTON VINEYARDS & WINERY
Family-owned farm-winery in the heart of Somers, CT
Celebrate Fall With Us! Open: Wed–Sat 12-8
Sun 12-6 Thu 10/1....... 5:45-6:30pm Fall 5K Run Fri 10/2........ 4:30pm Private Event Early Closure Sat 10/3 ....... 10:30-11:30am Stronger Together w/Strength By Sami 12-7pm Fellowship Cafe Food Truck 2-5pm Live Music Luke Deroy Sun 10/4 ...... 12-4pm Pop Up ~ J+K Collective 12-5pm Fellowship Cafe Food Truck Thu 10/8 ...... 5:45-6:30pm Fall 5K Run Fri 10/9........ 8am-12pm Harvest Fest Weekend Sat 10/10 ..... Harvest Fest Weekend 12-4pm Dishmade Food Truck 1-4pm Pop Up ~ Scrunchies by Melanie 1-4pm Live Music KT Lay 5pm Private Event Early Closure SCAN FOR Sun 10/11 ..... 12-6 Harvest Fest Weekend FULL EVENT 1-4pm Live Music Nick Bosse CALENDAR Sat 10/17...... Private Event Closed All Day Sun 10/18 ..... Pig Roast Celebration, featuring Kayla Rae Sat 10/24 ..... Pumpkin Fest Weekend 12-7pm Dishmade Food Truck Sun 10/25 .... Pumpkin Fest Weekend Dog Costume Parade Fri 10/30 ...... Trunk or Treat FOLLOW US:
359 MOUNTAIN RD, SOMERS, CT • 860.835.5011 • WORTHINGTONWINERY.COM
Quality Eyewear for the Entire Family.
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Licensed Opticians and your local experts who will focus on your vision, comfort and appearance.
We provide the best in Adult and Youth Sport, Fashion and Safety Eyewear - no matter how complex your correction.
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Halloween & Thanksgiving are quickly approaching! Make your lawn/gardens look beautiful again this year with our endless options of Fall Décor: Mums, Ghosts, Scarecrows, Pumpkins & more.
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
|7|
V
isiting a local apple orchard and picking one’s fill of apples is a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is an ideal way to spend time outdoors when the
Apple picking pointers
weather tends to be cool and pleasant. Gathering fresh-from-the-tree fruit to turn into favorite fall desserts like cobblers and pies is irresistible. According to the Economic Research Service, Washington state is the leading apple producer in the United States. It is followed very distantly by New York and Michigan. Apples were first cultivated in Canada by early French settlers, with the first trees planted in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley around 1633. Today, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia have become strong players in the apple business. While other areas may not be apple meccas, those look-
ing to pick their own have plenty of options across North American to enjoy this pastime. Prior to an apple picking adventure, people can do a little preparation to ensure the afternoon is fun and fruitful.
DO SOME RESEARCH
Before individuals head out, they should do research into the available orchards and which apple varieties they specialize in. Ripening seasons vary, so certain varieties may not be available at all times. Call ahead to learn which apples are ripe and when.
VISIT EARLY
The best apples are often available early in the season before the
trees have been heavily picked over. It’s also a good idea to visit the orchard early in the day, which means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
DRESS APPROPRIATELY
Orchards can be dusty, muddy and buggy. The ground also may be uneven. Individuals can wear comfortable clothes and closedtoed shoes that can get dirty. Also, they should dress in layers, as it can be chilly early in the day and then warmer later on.
PICK CORRECTLY
Instead of yanking on the apples, which can damage the tree and apples, people should gently roll or twist the apple upwards from the
branch. If the apple is ripe it will detach easily with stem intact.
AVOID BRUISING
It’s wise to inspect the apples to make sure they are firm and brightly colored. Those with bruising or insect damage should be left behind.
DON’T OVERLOAD
Only pick what you need. Apples are delicate, and overloading the apples into bags can crush or bruise the ones on the bottom. Plus, over-picking means that the apples may spoil before they can be eaten. After a day at the orchard, apples can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark place, which will help them stay fresher, longer. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
SAINT GREGORY ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH
Celebrating our 49th
6L Coleman Avenue, Unit 1 Westfield, MA • 413-572-0055 Visit us through the Doghouse!
Professional, Gentle Grooming • Dog & Cat Grooming • Private Appointments • Monthly Nail Clinics
Pet Food, Treats, Toys, Spa Products, Collars, Leashes & more! For K-9s & Felines, LLC is a holistic pet store dedicated to the health and happiness of your pet! Let us take care of your pet ~ inside and out!
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One of Western Massachusetts’ longest-running cultural food traditions.
SATURDAY, OCT. 24th 12–7 PM RAIN OR SHINE
ST. GREGORY ARMENIAN APOSTOLIC CHURCH 135 Goodwin Street, Indian Orchard, MA
ENJOY authentic homemade Armenian dishes passed down through generations - from sizzling chicken and lamb kebabs to hearty losh meals, (Armenian meat patties) pilaf, and an irresistable spread of pastries.
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All your Greek favorites including avgolemono soup, gyro sandwiches, souvlaki, spanakopita, moussaka, Greek salad, Greek pastries and much more!
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For more info Tours for New Members & Membership Renewals
ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
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|8|
By Debbie Gardner
Always a good scare at McCray’s
IT’S THE CHARACTERS THAT KEEP PEOPLE COMING BACK
dgardner@thereminder.com
It’s as much a tradition on McCray’s Farm as fall pumpkin hayrides, ice cream from the creamery and the free petting zoo. As soon as the calendar flips to October, it’s time for Fear on the Farm. Brainchild of Holyoke native and avowed Halloween aficionado Dan Augusto, Fear on the Farm is the longest continuously operating haunted hayride attraction in the state. Even COVID-19 didn’t stop the scares. “We were the only attraction allowed to be open during the shutdown,” Augusto shared. This fall marks the 36th season for the annual Halloween scare fest that Augusto first created in 1991 on a small area of the farm that owner Don McCray let him use. “I did a Google search just for the heck of it because I started the same year as Spooky World did. They opened a week before us,” Augusto shared. “So, I just searched ‘What’s the longest running haunted hayride attraction in Massachusetts,’ and we’re it now.” But while Spooky World, which relocated to Litchfield New Hampshire in 2009, was founded by a famous producer and special effects artist and had celebrity guests, Fear on the Farm has always been a grassroots operation and showcased local talent. Fear on the Farm General Manager Briget Reilly said from the beginning, the original haunted hayride, dubbed Monster Mash, was a hit. “Within the first two weekends, there wasn’t enough parking space to park all the cars,” Reilly said. And the popularity never waned. At the 10-year mark, Augusto said Fear on the Farm added a haunted corn maze to the hayride. At the 11-year mark, the crew created a small haunt in a 40-foot-long car port. That haunt grew into what is now Massacre Manor while a string of damp fall seasons forced Fear on the Farm to eventually abandon the haunted corn maze. When original farm owner Don McCray passed away before the 22nd season, Augusto and his crew created the D.O.N., or Diagnostic Operations Nexus, haunted walk-
Backup & Recovery Disaster Mitigation
throughs, using his initials for the attraction as a homage, bringing the scare areas to a total of four themes.
ALWAYS UPPING THE SCARE FACTOR
From the humble beginnings of backyard-built scare scenes and costumes from Augusto’s own collection to today’s crew of carpenters and costumed actors, Fear on the Farm has always strived to provide guests with the best in Halloween entertainment. That means taking a fresh look at the 20-minute haunted hayride and the haunted walk-through every season. “We currently have the whole front of the haunt, the front quarter of the mansion, torn off, and we’re rebuilding and retheming that,” Augusto said. He said the crew is also changing up the entire first section of the hayride for 2026. Reilly said Fear on the Farm is employing social media to showcase the changes they’re making for this season. “What you hear during the season is, ‘Oh well, they didn’t change this. They didn’t change much in the haunt, they didn’t change much on the trail,’ and that gets frustrating for the build crew because they are here every Saturday and Sunday during the summer,”
Networking Design & Repair
Reilly said. “So, putting it out on social media is to try to show you, ‘Hey, we are changing. Hey, this is new.’” Reilly said they’re also using Facebook to showcase some of the attraction’s legacy characters, such as the Gravedigger, Jack O’ Lantern, the Petrified Pumpkin Farmer, and clowns like Sparky who were around before Clown Town was in the haunt. Their comic book-like profile pages will be collected into a commemorative book available at the attraction’s concession stand, Reilly added. Beyond highlighting characters on their Facebook page, Fear on the Farm is now also making character interactions available in the Midway. Located in the lot below the farm’s min-golf area, the well-lit Midway helps streamline the loading and unloading of hayride guests while it also offers waiting riders an opportunity to grab a snack or a photo with a character. The concession stand carries Fear on the Farm T-shirts, snacks like mini-donuts, kettle corn and bottled beverages and, through a temporary permit, beer and alcohol. Augusto said Mike McCray, son of the original owner, closely monitors the alcohol sales to ensure the atmosphere is family-friendly all season long.
Augusto said Fear on the Farm takes a different approach to its hauntings, allowing characters to develop their own personas rather than providing scripts for them to follow. For instance, the legacy character Gravedigger, developed during the hayride’s initial season, was the product of the last mask in the box, a tattered flannel shirt, a shovel and the actor’s imagination. Reilly said the secret is that Fear on the Farm actors “love entertaining people, not just scaring people, but making people laugh and suspending reality for everybody.” Their actor’s strength, she added, is being able to gauge the audience and play accordingly. “They’re able to read the customers in front of them and say, ‘Ok, I’m going to scare her. I’m going to entertain him, and I’m going to make him laugh’,” Reilly said. “I mean, not every wagon is blood-curdling screaming,” she continued. “Some wagons they’re laughing, some wagons they’re shrieking with laughter and wonder.”
HOPING FOR A GOOD SEASON
Fear on the Farm, which opens on Friday, Oct. 2, in 2026, has a total of 15 nights to scare and entertain guests during its five weekends of operation. Both Augusto and Reilly are hoping for a good run, with no rain to close the attraction down. “We’re at the mercy of the weather here in New England and we’re all outdoors, “Reilly said. “The only perfect season was 2004.” Fear on the Farm is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7 p.m. until the last guest runs out screaming. General admission for the 2026 season is $30 per person. Fast Pass admission, which allows ticket holders to skip the line, is available online for $55. For more information visit their website at fearonthefarm.com. For updated weather closures, visit their Facebook page, updated daily, at facebook. com/fearonthefarmatmccraysfarm.
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
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Create a cozy backyard firepit
A
firepit can serve as a warm and inviting backyard retreat, perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores or stargazing while wrapped in cozy blankets. Before you can share time around the firepit with loved ones, however, consider these tips to elevate your outdoor space.
materials are a must to ensure safety and longevity. You’ll also need tools such as a shovel for digging the base, a level to ensure even construction and adhesive or mortar for binding materials together. Depending on your design, you may require a metal fire ring, grill grate or mesh cover.
KEEPING SAFETY IN MIND
Safety should be your top priority when building and using a backyard firepit. Always place your firepit at least 10 feet away from any structures, trees or flammable materials. Make sure the area is clear of dry leaves and other debris that could catch fire. Consider installing a spark screen to prevent embers from escaping and always keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DESIGN
When it comes to building a DIY firepit, the design you choose can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality. From classic stone pits to modern metal designs, the options are nearly endless. Think about the size and shape as well. Circular designs are traditional and encourage conversation while square or rectangular pits offer a more contemporary look.
inviting. Choose weather-resistant chairs, benches or DIY log stools arranged in a circle to foster conversation. Ambient lighting from string lights, lanterns or solar-powered path lights can elevate the mood and extend the usability of your firepit into the evening. Consider adding citronella candles or torches to keep insects at bay while enhancing the ambiance. Visit eLivingtoday.com to find more ideas to enhance your living spaces. Article courtesy of Features Impact
ENHANCING AMBIANCE WITH SEATING AND LIGHTING
GATHERING MATERIALS AND TOOLS
Creating a cozy atmosphere around your firepit involves more than just the fire itself. Comfortable seating is essential for making your outdoor space
Essential materials include bricks, stones or metal parts for the structure, as well as gravel or sand for the base. Fireproof
Yankee Magazine’s Choice for Best New England Cuisine!
Take a scenic Drive to the Brookfields this Fall
Fireplace Feasts Are Back! Nov 6 th thru April
See our website for dates and reservations
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Thanksgiving!
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porterroadpetcare.com
413.525.3532
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ALL THAT’S FALL 2026
| 11 |
CANDY
Hello Autumn!
Continued from page 6
CANDY-TOPPED BROWNIES
Brownies are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with some embellishments. Mix chopped caramels into the batter, or add other candies for flavor and fun.
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Save the candy in a zip-top bag for freshness and reserve for decorating gingerbread houses around the holidays.
417 Springfield Street, Agawam, MA Phone: 413.789.1023 | Fax: 413.789.1549
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GINGERBREAD HOUSE
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CANDY BARK
Melt down any chocolate you may have and spread it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle chopped up leftover candy on top and allow to cool. Break into pieces for a homemade chocolate bark.
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ORC
Pick Your Own Apples in September and October! Call the Farm!
HARDS
VISIT THE FARM FOR: Honey • Cheese Jams • Early Apples Maple Syrup
If there is a birthday on the horizon, use the Halloween candy to stuff the pi–ata.
FREE 1/2 Dozen Cider Donuts
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SOUTHBRIDGE ROAD • WARREN, MA
PARADE ROUTE
Veteran’s Day parades are held each November. Start a new tradition in town where donated candy will be tossed out to the crowd by those marching in the parade.
5 MIN. FROM STURBRIDGE - 148 N. FOLLOW SIGNS
624 North Main StREET · East Longmeadow, MA 413-737-6870 OPEN 7 DAYS NOON - 9PM
413-436-7122
OPEN 10AM-6PM • WWW.BREEZELANDSORCHARDS.COM
#1 Men’s Barber Shop! Cutting Professionals’ Hair Since 1925
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Various organizations will gather and ship leftover candy to troops stationed overseas or donate the goods to first responders, veterans and others. It’s fun to gather treats on Halloween. But when the collected candy is simply too much to eat, there are various ways to put it to good use. Article courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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Enjoy one of our BUCKET LIST TRIPS! Booking NOW! OCTOBER 11-18, 2027 Pyramids, Spinx, New Museum, Aexandria & 3 Night Riverboat on the Nile!
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169 Elm St. Enfield, CT • 860.745.7282
Springfield 1153 Main Street 413.734.9753 East Longmeadow 60 Shaker Road 413.525.7031
enfieldscuba.com
Fall Into Mums and More! Open September 1st - October 31st
Mums, pumpkins, gourds, cornstalks, and primitive autumn decorations. Family Fun with our Little Rascal Pumpkin Patch!
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We do not work for an insurance company; we work for you. We work on your side when you have a loss and follow through to see that you get fair, prompt payment. We represent a carefully selected group of financially sound, reputable insurance companies, and we place your policy with the company offering the best coverage at a competitive price. Our goal is to reduce your insurance cost and gaps in coverage.
32 Somers Road, Hampden, MA · 413-566-0028 128 Main Street, Monson, MA · 413-267-3495 richardgreenins@gmail.com richardgreeninsurance.com Tired of leaving unanswered voicemails?
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~ FALL HOURS ~ Open Sept. 1st - Oct. 31st 9:30 am - 5 pm The Halloween Brothers Family Friendly Train Ride starting in mid September. Weekends Only.
150 COLLEGE HWY, RTE. 10/202, SOUTHWICK, MA • 413-569-6724
You Call... We Haul
WHY CHOOSE US... Since we provide a wide range of solutions, you won’t need to hire subcontractors for specialized tasks. We are also committed to providing superior work at a great value. In addition, all our technicians are highly trained, and we make the safety of both clients and employees a number one priority.
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Any Job Over $500 or More
Any Job Over $1000 or More
Valid with coupon. One coupon per customer. Not to be combined with any other offers, existing job quotes, or already scheduled jobs. Expires 11/30/2026.
Valid with coupon. One coupon per customer. Not to be combined with any other offers, existing job quotes, or already scheduled jobs. Expires 11/30/2026.
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(New Clients Only)
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