‘You could hear a pin drop’ at recent WMS assemblies
Principal Jesse McMillan said during a visit last week to Westfield Middle School, motivational speaker Terrence Lee Talley’s message of hope and resilience was well received.
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Q&A: Westfield pitcher commits to D1 Merrimack College
Westfield High School
senior baseball ace Josh Wagner, who recently committed to play Division 1 baseball for Merrimack College, sat down with Reminder Publishing Page 3
SOUTHWICK
Town starts planning 250th celebration of country’s founding It’s still early, but the town is getting prepared to celebrate the country’s semiquincentennial, which the Select Board discussed briefly at its meeting on Jan. 26.
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Snow removal costs continue to climb
By Cliff Clark cclark@thereminder.com
SOUTHWICK — After four snow events this winter, it’s clear that when Town Meeting convenes in May, it will have to dip into free cash to pay off the deficit spending the town is incurring to keep the town’s roads and streets clear.
And after the last two storms, including the one over the Jan. 24 weekend, the total is going to continue to climb.
“It’s going to be a big one,” said DPW Director Rich Bosak about the weekend storm, which saw over 18 inches of snow fall.
“The guys are still busy pushing back the intersections,” Bosak said on Jan. 27.
He, like the Select Board members, commended the DPW crew and the private contractors.
“They did a fabulous job. And it was some very long hours,” Bosak said.
Select Board member Doug Moglin gave “kudos” to everyone for the effort.
“Kudos to those guys for really slugging it out. And our contractors and partners that showed up and did their best with what was going on. That was a lot of snow,” Moglin said, with board members Diane Gale and Russ Anderson agreeing.
Chief Administrative Officer Nicole Parker also recognized DPW’s effort.
“We want to recognize and thank our DPW for an outstanding job responding to this major winter storm. Plowing through nearly two feet of snow over the course of multiple days is no small task, and their professionalism, endurance, and commitment to public safety truly showed,” she said.
Bosak said his crews started at about 9 a.m. on Jan. 25 and continued, non-stop, until 6
p.m. on Jan. 26.
“It was 33 hours straight, including during the storm,” he said, adding that the DPW’s equipment held up “great.”
The salt shed is already empty from the six storms the DPW has had to handle.
“We’re getting more this week,” Bosak said, adding that it is a bit cheaper than last year.
Since the winter started, the DPW has submitted reports on the cost of each storm to the Select Board.
The first storm on Dec. 2, which finished with 5 inches of snow, cost the town $32,478. That included $12,530 for 121 tons of salt, 76 hours of overtime for $2,410 and $16,537 for private
contractors. Six inches of snow fell on Dec. 26, costing the town a total of $43,896, including $12,530 for 121 tons of salt, 192 hours of overtime for $8,722 and $22,642 for the contractors. There was also a snow event on Dec. 29, leaving behind 2 inches of snow, which cost $19,094, including $7,570 for 73 tons of salt, $2,844 for overtime and $8,680 for contractors.
And on Jan. 1, after 1.5 inches of snow fell, it cost $19,804 to clear it, including $7,899 for 76 tons of salt, $3,224 for overtime and $8,690 for contractors.
Each year, Town Meeting approves $111,500 for snow and ice removal, using that figure as
essentially a placeholder in the budget because there’s no way to estimate what will end up being spent. But spending so far has already exceeded the placeholder by $3,773 as of Jan. 1.
From now until spring, the town will be deficit spending for snow and ice removal, which is the only line item in the budget that the state allows municipalities to deficit spend.
That deficit spending amount is always Article 2 on the May Town Meeting warrant, and last year it was $270,000, which meant taxpayers were on the hook for $381,500. Over the past 10 years,
With five storms so far this winter, the Southwick DPW is on track to spend its average of $296,000 annually.
STRM: Highlighting local wings and game day bites
By Tyler Garnet tgarnet@thereminder.com
Whether you like to watch football or not, the 2026 Super Bowl arrives on Feb. 8, which means watch parties will be filled with a plethora of food and drinks.
As the big game approaches, the Reminder Publishing news team visited some local restaurants to try an iconic Super Bowl delectable; chicken wings.
On the Jan. 30 episode of “So That Reminds Me,” Dennis Hackett, Chris Maza and Ryan Feyre sat down to discuss the results and share some recommendations.
Brickhouse Tavern, Indian Orchard – Dennis Hackett
Dennis prefaced that Brickhouse Tavern is one of his parents’ favorite restaurants, so there have been plenty of occasions when they have ordered buffalo and garlic wings for takeout.
For the review, he ordered 10 wings, half coated with a Cajun rub, which Dennis said was “pretty good,” and the other half with Carolina Tangy Gold, which is a sweet and tangy mustard base barbecue sauce.
Dennis said the Carolina Tangy Gold is “by far” his favorite due to the combination of honey mustard and barbecue sauce.
Although Dennis mentioned he sometimes enjoys wings with a little heat, he prefers the Carolina Tangy Gold because of the uniqueness.
Other flavors that Brickhouse Tavern has for their wings include ranch, lemon pepper, buffalo, old bay, teriyaki, sweet chile, mango habanero, buffayaki and General Tso’s.
In case you are not a fan of wings, Dennis also tried the Tavern’s cheesy tots, which were seasoned with black truffle sea salt, garlic and parmesan cheese and served with hot fondue cheese sauce. He dipped the tater tots in the cheese sauce like it was beer cheese and said it was
pretty good.
Rail Trail Ale House, Southwick – Ryan Feyre
Ryan said he could not wait to talk about Rail Trail because it is his favorite restaurant in the area. The wings reflect the overall ambience and quality of the place, according to Ryan, and he said the wings are some of the best in the area because they “hit on all cylinders” in terms of proportion of meat, the amount of sauce and flavor of the wing.
Ryan stayed classic and got the buffalo wings. He also mentioned that the chicken tenders at Rail Trail are marinated overnight in their “everyday dressing,” dredged in eggs and breadcrumbs then fired to a golden brown.
Although Ryan mentioned he is unsure if the Rail Trail does the same with its “Wicked Wings,” he believes they do because the flavor of the wings seep into the entire wing, yielding a burst of flavor.
Ryan also said that Rail Trail offers a great atmosphere to watch this year’s Super Bowl.
The Hangar Pub and Grill, multiple locations – Chris Maza
Chris checked out The Hangar Pub and Grill in West Springfield. Although the restaurant has gone through changes over the years and is now a local chain, he said they still have “good quality wings.”
Hangar Pub and Grill, which offers 26 flavors and features a list of “Best Of” awards, proclaims to be the “King of Wings.”
On Chris’s family’s recent trip to the restuarant, they ordered four different wing flavors to try, including Cruisin’ Altitude — which is essentially the restaurant’s standard buffalo — mango habanero, garlic parmesan and cajun teriyaki.
Chris shared that he is a big fan of their mango habanero due to the sweet and spicy combination that “hits the spot
every time.”
The Cruisin’ Altitude is a safe option for a Super Bowl party because it is the restaurant’s standard buffalo with a little bit of a kick.
Chris, who mentioned he is a big fan of garlic, would have liked a little more garlic taste to the garlic parmesan wing. He described the dry rub as more of a garlic salt as opposed to minced garlic.
Initially, Chris also was not sold on the idea of a cajun teriyaki wing, but said he was “pleasantly surprised” when he tried it thanks to the wing’s richer and more complex flavor.
Besides the flavor of the wings, Chris also commended Hangar for the size of their wings.
He said the restaurants pump out a lot of volume in terms of the takeout business, so they are primed for a watch party. He recommends them because of how many locations encompass the region.
Grapevine Pizzeria and Restaurant, Longmeadow –Tyler Garnet
I ordered 10 hot honey barbecue wings from Grapevine Pizzeria and Restaurant in Longmeadow. As soon as I picked up my online order, I was excited to try these wings because I could smell the flavor from outside the container and the bag they came in. The wings were sizable, and the order included a nice mix of drums and flats. I really enjoyed the flavor and was happy with the amount of sauce on the wings. The sweetness of the barbecue and hot honey element went good together, as neither of the flavor profiles outshine the other; the wings weren’t too hot or too sweet.
I would have liked the wings to be a little crispier, but I also had to wait 30 minutes after picking them up to eat them due to my commute, so I would be open to trying them again in the restaurant.
I liked that you could ask for
them well done, which is how I prefer to have them cooked. Other flavors at Grapevine include buffalo, barbecue, honey barbecue or plain. You unfortunately could not mix or match, so I decided to go with honey hot barbecue, and I was happy with my choice.
Pizza Shoppe, East Longmeadow – Peter Tuohy Peter tried the mild wings at The Pizza Shoppe and said it was one of the best wings he had in a long time. This was his first time at The Pizza Shoppe, so he said he was excited to see that the wings were “hefty and were filling, making a real bang for your buck.” Peter said he is usually an “as spicy as possible” person, but he settled for mild so he could get the best judge of flavor.
The meat fell right off the bone and there was not a bone in the batch left unfinished. The blue cheese also added a delicious extra touch to complete.
He mentioned that The Pizza Shoppe’s mild wings included a minimal mess and a delicious and tender flavor.
Peter said he will be back to try out the hot and barbecue wings soon.
Other places that the news staff shared as honorable mentions included La Cucina di Hampden House in Hampden, E.B’s in Agawam, Theodore’s Blues, Booze and BBQ in Springfield, White Lion Brewing Company in Springfield, Nadim’s Downtown Mediterranean Grill in Springfield and Vanished Valley Brewing in Ludlow. This list from the news staff is not definitive. If you have your favorites, be sure to let us know by emailing news@ thereminder.com.
To hear the full episode , visit thereminder.com/our-podcast or search “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform.
the town has spent an average of $300,000 each year to keep the streets clear, which totaled $3 million.
However, the final cost has been as high as nearly $411,000 in 2018, and as low as $141,500 in 2016, according to the town’s Finance Committee annual report.
When plows are out pushing snow, mailboxes will occasionally be damaged, either by a direct plow strike or by heavy, wet snow being pushed into a single box or bank of boxes along the right-ofway, Bosak said.
According to the town’s snow and ice policy, mailbox owners should check the post annually to ensure sturdiness and that the box is securely attached to the post.
Plow drivers are required to
report when they believe they have damaged a mailbox. But there are occasions when the drivers don’t know they’ve hit one.
“Provided the mailbox does not intrude or hang over onto the paved portion of road, if a mailbox is damaged, the homeowner shall report this to DPW at 413-5696772 within 36 hours of the storm to ensure proper investigation by the DPW director or his/her designee,” according to town’s policy.
Bosak said when there is a report made, the department will investigate to determine if the cause of damage was from a plow strike, pushed snow or if the post was rotted or cracked.
The town will only replace mailboxes and posts if there is evidence of a direct plow strike, according to the town’s policy. Bosak said the DPW keeps a couple of new mailboxes and posts on hand to issue as replacements after
a plow strike.
The town also recommends homeowners protect their boxes using an “A-frame” post or sheet of plywood. Parking bans are usually issued during a storm. The town notifies residents by posting the ban on the Police Department’s Facebook site and on the town’s website.
Bosak said that for the most part, residents follow the ban.
The hot honey barbecue wings from Grapevine Pizzeria and Restaurant. Reminder Publishing photo by Tyler Garnet
‘You could hear a pin drop,’
By Amy Porter aporter@thereminder.com
WESTFIELD — Principal Jesse McMillan said during a visit last week to Westfield Middle School, motivational speaker Terrence Lee Talley’s message of hope and resilience was well received.
McMillan said he found Talley, a widely recognized speaker in K-12 education, through a national principals networking group. When he posted asking for reputable speakers, McMillan said Talley’s name came up quite a bit.
Talley, who is from Minnesota, spent the day in Westfield on Jan. 22 giving four presentations, one to seventh-grade students in the auditorium and one to eighthgrade students, leading a staff meeting at the end of the day and an evening event for families at 6 p.m.
“The kids responded incredibly well,” McMillan said.
One of the topics Talley touched upon was mental health concerns in middle school and navigating teasing and bullying. McMillan said the school has a social-emotional curriculum that Talley’s message reinforced. “We needed to provide a unified message of hope, resiliency and supporting one another — even
By Chris Putz cputz@thereminder.com
WESTFIELD — Westfield High School senior baseball ace Josh Wagner, who recently committed to play Division 1 baseball for Merrimack College, sat down with Reminder Publishing to discuss how he came to that decision and to look back on his career thus far.
Q: So, when did you come to the decision of signing with Merrimack?
A: I think it was about two to three weeks ago. I took a visit [to the campus] in November and I really liked it. Then I did all the normal college stuff. I applied and all that stuff, and then I went back around three weeks ago and I got the offer. I knew that it was the right fit for me.
Q: You say it was the right fit for you. Can you explain what factored into your decision?
A: I think the campus style I really enjoyed, and I really saw it as a home for me. I really like the coaching staff that the baseball program has and the program in general. It seemed like the best fit for me.
people you don’t know.”
“It wasn’t your traditional Powerpoint presentation. It was emotional through storytelling,” McMillan said.
He meets students from all over the nation, and weaves in stories from his life, as a child, teen and adult. He talked about challenging relationships; a lot of experiences many students have. “You could hear a pin drop in the auditorium,” McMillan said.
McMillan said there were students Talley’s message had an impact on that he wouldn’t necessarily have expected. “It was really a beautiful thing,” he said, adding that afterwards he sent a message home to families letting them know it had been an emotional assembly for the students. He said the school also had counselors on hand to help them process it.
“I kept hearing ‘we needed that’ — powerful coming from 13 and 14 year olds,” McMillan said.
The overall theme of the assembly was don’t give up reaching out to others, no matter what life situations they’re going through, and encourage people to keep going, not only the people you know, but the ones you don’t know, he said. “Sitting in an auditorium with 350 kids — 700 in the school — can guarantee
Q: To have an athlete from Westfield, Westfield Technical Academy, St. Mary’s, or Southwick Regional play Division 1 sports is an impressive feat. What does it mean to you that you will be representing our area as a D1 student-athlete next year?
A: It means the world to me; it’s been one of my dreams since I was a little kid. To be living that dream is incredible.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish at Merrimack?
A: I hope to keep the Western Massachusetts legacy [going] and do as good as I can over there as long as I can play the game.
Q: I remember watching you play for the Westfield Little League Baseball All-Stars several years ago. Local fans value Little League championships just as much as Western Massachusetts titles in high school baseball in the Whip City. What was it like starting at that early age and representing your city in those games?
A: I think it was around that time when I think I was 11 when I really started to get serious to-
you that someone is weathering a storm. Be mindful of that in daily interactions. You don’t know what people are going through inside and outside of school.”
McMillan said Talley used stories to help students understand a little more. Even if it’s not one they experienced themselves, it gave them perspective and a lens into someone else’s life.
The presentation was made
wards baseball, and I really realized that I wanted to play at the next level throughout high school and do as best as I can.
Q: You went on to play youth baseball for the Greater Westfield Babe Ruth League and travel ball for the Powerhouse Bulldogs club based in East Longmeadow. Does anything stick out in your mind from that time?
A: I think just making the jump from Little League to, obviously, the bigger field was a big thing, and once I realized that I could compete at that bigger field, it got a lot easier for me. I started training differently and working harder throughout that time knowing that I could do anything that came across my mind on that field.
Q: Expectations are always very high when it comes to Westfield High School baseball. Tell me about your time as a Bomber.
A: My sophomore year I went 11-1 on the mound and won Western Mass. … I’ve made it to the Final Four. As seniors this year now, I think the guys just
possible through a Hate Crimes Prevention Grant of $42,000 that WMS received from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education through the end of the school year. The school applied for the grant after anti-semitic incidents in January 2025, in which a swastika was drawn on a WMS student’s notebook, and several other swastikas were found in the school.
McMillan responded right away, sending a letter condemning the incidents, and following up by partnering with the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts to develop more appropriate resources for middle schoolers and inviting speakers to come in.
“There have been no further anti-semitic incidents. Students
as well.
Q: What will your approach be to this, your last high
Westfield High School baseball pitcher Josh Wagner recently announced his intentions to play Division 1 baseball for Merrimack College. Reminder Publishing photo by Chris Putz
WMS Principal Jesse McMillan said “you could hear a pin drop” during assemblies by motivational speaker Terrence Lee Talley on Jan. 22.
By Cliff Clark cclark@thereminder.com
SOUTHWICK — It’s still early, but the town is getting prepared to celebrate the country’s semiquincentennial, which the Select Board discussed briefly at its meeting on Jan. 26.
“So we wanted to invite you here to inform us if you have any plans in the works for the 250th anniversary of the country; what those might be, when they might be being planned, and see if we can coordinate, facilitate or help you with that,” said Select Board Chair Diane Gale during the meeting.
While the Historical Commission’s Russ Fox didn’t attend the meeting, Select Board member Douglas Moglin said the
By Cliff Clark cclark@thereminder.com
SOUTHWICK — While the chair of the Planning Board threw cold water on a Master Plan recommendation to limit new developments while the town’s zoning regulations are being updated, she agreed to talk more about it.
“The time to do it before we update our zoning,” Planning Board Chair Jessica Thornton said about the Master Plan recommendation to the board.
The recommendation reads:
“Consider limiting new development until all zoning enhancements, requests for zoning updates, and adherence to uniformly-applied design/aesthetic standards mentioned in the Master Plan actions have been considered and have planned pathway to implementation.”
Thornton said the board had looked at the recommendation, but since the zoning bylaws are being updated, “considering to put a stop on any new applications or development in town that has already
commission is planning to have several events that will coincide with Aug. 15, which is when the town’s annual summer fireworks show will be held.
Coordinated by the Southwick Civic Fund, its president Joseph Deedy said on Jan. 27 that plans are underway to have a couple of rides for children on that Saturday, food trucks and a live band in addition to the fireworks.
“We’re also planning some form of the Fireman’s Parade that was held for decades,” Deedy said.
Last year, there was talk of trying to hold a Fireman’s Carnival, but Deedy said there’s “just no funding for that.”
Moglin also said there are plans to have some Revolutionary War reenactors at the Aug. 15
come and gone.”
While board member David Spina didn’t believe limiting development was “completely impractical … and didn’t make sense,” he offered a “different” interpretation of the recommendation.
“The limitation on development would be until such time as all those enhancements to the zoning were actually completed, as opposed to started.”
That prompted Thornton to ask the board if they might consider asking the Master Plan Implementation Committee to cancel the recommendation, which has been allowed on a case-by-case basis –only three so far.
Spina suggested considering the recommendation.
“[Give] it some thought, maybe even some discussion … and deciding one way or another whether or not we want to do this,” which Thornton agreed with.
Board member Marcus Phelps said the town has had a development moratorium in the past.
“It might be interesting to
fireworks show, and for Veterans Day on Nov. 11. He then announced that he was going to include an article on the warrant for the May Town Meeting to create a revolving account for flags that would be flown on lampposts throughout town with the names and faces of Southwick military veterans.
“I would like to kick off that program to hopefully maybe have some things set up to have them on display for August, but definitely for November,” Moglin said.
Board member Diane Gale said the town should use its website to promote events.
“That way we can help promote everything that’s going on in town, regardless of who’s doing it,” she said.
look back,” he said, adding that he wasn’t sure if Town Meeting would have to approve one.
“I would think not,” Thornton said.
She also questioned what development might be limited.
“I don’t know if that’s a conversation that any of us wants to have or should have,” Thornton said.
Despite that, Spina, who is a member of the MPIC, said a decision would need to be made, which Phelps agreed with.
“I think it would be worthwhile to discuss it some more,” he said.
Thornton said the issue would be included as an agenda item during the board’s next meeting.
The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, using a $67,000 state grant, has been revising the zoning bylaws for several months.
Many of the issues in the current bylaws were discovered during the development of the town’s Master Plan, which was drafted by the PVPC using suggestions from a committee that met for over two years to guide the process.
Public Library Director Lynn Blair said her staff has already made plans for several events. She said that in April, a park ranger from the Springfield Armory will have a presentation about the Continental Arsenal.
Local historian Dennis Picard will be at the library in July for a presentation on local patriots. Picard had been a museum professional in the “Living History” field for over 30 years. He spent over a decade at Old Sturbridge Village, filling various positions, including “lead interpreter.”
In August, the library will host a speaker to Mercy Otis Warren, an American activist poet, playwright and pamphleteer during the American Revolution. During the years before the Revolution, she had published
Former Town Planner Jon Goddard, who is now the assistant DPW director, described the revision as “building on the work” of the committee during the development of the Master Plan.
Since the original town bylaws were written in the 1970s, it has been “reworked piecemeal” with new elements added and others removed.
It has left the town with a document that is “awkward,” which is how the PVPC described the bylaws in a comprehensive review of them last year.
“As the town has adopted bylaw amendments and added new sections, this structure has produced some awkward, non-standard placement of content. Finding information in the ZBL can be made more difficult due to various definitions and standards not being in a place where the reader would expect,” wrote the PVPC in the review.
Some of the issues in the bylaw were made apparent last year when the Planning Board went to court because of its decision to deny a special permit to a commercial real estate development company to build and open a Dollar General retail store on College Highway.
There were two lawsuits filed; one that questioned the impartiality of two board members and another that questioned the criteria used by the Planning Board when making a final determination on granting a special permit in both Business zoning districts.
The lawsuit pointed out the vagueness and subjectivity that might be used by the board to justify a decision, including that the business needed to be “suitably located” in town, “be reasonably
poems and plays that attacked royal authority in Massachusetts and urged colonists to resist British infringements on colonial rights and liberties, according to Wikipedia.
Blair said the library will use those events to promote the library’s resources, like assisting residents with genealogy and finding ancestors with connections to the Revolution.
“We’re also willing to help promote any other organizations, events, and we’d be happy to share any posters to spread the word,” she said.
As the discussion wound down, Gale suggested that the board invite other groups to a meeting to see what else may be in the planning stages so the town can coordinate with them.
compatible with the character and scale of other uses permitted,” that the “use will not constitute a nuisance by reason of … visually flagrant structures and accessories,” that the “use is in harmony with the general purposes and intent” of the zoning regulations, “the public good will be served” and “the proposal reasonably protects the adjoining premises against detrimental or offensive effects of the site, including, but not limited to, unsightly or obnoxious appearances.”
When former board member Michael Doherty abruptly resigned in January, he said the Business Restricted zoning district bylaw needed to be revised “sooner rather than later.”
In the comprehensive review, the PVPC pointed to one provision of the bylaw related to “adult entertainment” that would need revising. It wrote that the bylaw refers to an “Adult Entertainment District [but] does not include a reference to any map identifying the district boundaries.”
The bylaw does, however, prohibit all adult entertainment uses in each of the town’s zoning districts except in the Industrial Restricted district, and it is only allowed after securing a special permit from the Planning Board.
“As such, it does not appear necessary or accurate to include language referring to a district specific to adult entertainment,” according to the comprehensive review.
Goddard said the review will determine “what works well and what doesn’t.”
“[The bylaws] reflect a set of ideals of a different time. Southwick is a different place today than it was before,” he said.
HILLTOWNS
Chester highway supt. gives report after storm
By Amy Porter aporter@thereminder.com
CHESTER — Chester Highway
Superintendent Charles Dazelle, speaking on Jan. 26 at 4 p.m. after being at it for 33 hours straight, said the Jan. 25 storm cleanup overall went well.
“Everything went [well]. We didn’t have any calls — no accidents or medical. No calls at all. No trees down,” Dazelle said, adding, “We’re done.” He said the crew now had to go home and snowplow their own driveways.
With a crew of three, the town hired out White Wolf’s 10-wheeler to help with the cleanup, a contractor they’ve used before. He said their truck can hold more sand, as the biggest one in Chester has six wheels.
Chester has one F250, a four-wheel drive that was repaired just before the storm, and two F-550 dump trucks with sanders. He said a new
Contractor White Wolf’s 10-wheeler helped with storm cleanup in Chester, which had an overall 18 to 20 inches of snow during the Jan. 25 storm.
F-550 is on order to replace one from 2015.
“There’s about 10 years on a pickup’s life expectancy,” he said. He said the storm came down fast, and there was light
snow on top of ice in some areas, and a couple of trucks slipped. By the end, Chester had 18 to 20 inches overall.
“All in all, it went [well]. The Select Board was happy we didn’t get any calls,” he said.
Dazelle also talked about $1.3 million the department received in grants to engineer Johnson Hill Road and for paving and drainage to finish Blandford Road. “A lot of people use that road,” he said.
Supt. details missing bus incident; outlines next steps
By Amy Porter aporter@thereminder.com
HUNTINGTON — Gateway Regional Superintendent Melissa Matarazzo provided an update and next steps regarding an incident on Jan. 20, in which a school bus delivering elementary school students in Chester went missing for approximately 90 minutes.
Matarazzo said approximately six students picked up by Bus #135 at Chester Elementary school had a frightening experience. “After being picked up at Chester Elementary School, their bus driver suffered a medical issue that caused her to veer from her route and drive the students throughout the area for approximately 90 minutes. Students were not physically harmed, but were scared about the ride and what was happening around them,” she said in an incident report to Gateway families, students and staff following the incident.
Matarazzo said the first notification that something was wrong was communicated by a parent to Lecrenski Brothers Bus Company around 4 p.m. on Jan. 20, as her child had not arrived at home as scheduled.
Lecrenskis then attempted to contact the driver, but received no response. “Drivers who had finished their routes were deployed to drive Bus #135’s route to see if they could locate the bus. Additional parents called in to the bus company to report the absence of their children. The manager and other drivers continuously tried to reach the driver by cellphone and radio, with no response.”
Matarazzo said many families from Gateway who live in Chester also sent out individuals to search the bus route and attempt to locate the bus. “Unfortunately, many of these same parents tried to reach staff at Gateway to alert us, but there was no response to their phone call, as there were no people in the main offices of the
school and district. District staff were still present in multiple locations, but not near the office phones,” she said.
Matarazzo said Lecrenskis’s notification to Gateway that the bus could not be located occurred at 4:24 p.m. “Soon after, I contacted 911 and began working with the State Police out of the Russell barracks to address the situation. Russell police went to the bus company to obtain additional information and support in the search. Once my interactions with the police were completed, I sent an email to all Bus #135 families to let them know that the bus would be late, as this was the only fact we could establish at that time. This was just after 5 p.m.,” she said.
Sometime between 5:15 and 5:20 p.m., the bus was located on the side of the road in Chester on Route 20. “We believe that the driver stopped the bus there to contact the company and let them know she was lost. Students remained on the bus until the police arrived, and police boarded the bus to reassure the students and to confirm that no one was physically hurt,” Matarazzo said.
By that time, some parents had arrived at the location of the bus, and a police officer dismissed three children to their families so they could get home safely and quickly. A second vehicle arrived from the bus company to take the remaining three students home, and local police followed the bus to ensure that all students were received by an adult at their homes.
Matarazzo said her message to the impacted families that their children had been found occurred at 5:34 p.m. “Emergency crews treated and transported the bus driver to the hospital. She will not serve as a bus driver for Gateway again,” she added.
The day after the incident on Jan. 21, Chester Elementary Principal Todd Gazda and counselors
checked in with all students on the bus to help them process any fear and anxiety that was caused. If needed, additional support was also provided to individual students. Lecrenskis assigned a temporary driver and monitor to the bus and said they will identify a permanent driver soon.
In response to this incident, Matarazzo outlined three immediate next steps that the Gateway Regional District will take. The first is to identify and communicate a way for families to report emergency concerns after school hours.
“We may start with an approach we can quickly implement and then develop a more sustainable solution over time,” she said.
Another step will be to identify a bus tracking system and its cost.
School administration also plans to convene local police and the bus company to outline specific criteria and actions to take in the case of bus emergencies, including an efficient communica-
tion protocol to get information to affected families and staff.
“We know that these next actions cannot erase the fear and anxiety that this incident caused for our students and families, from those directly impacted to those of you who have heard about this event and developed concerns of your own,” Matarazzo said.
“Hopefully, this chronology of events shows our commitment to honesty and openness, and the next moves we make demonstrate that we will improve our systems and processes to serve you and our students better every day,” she added.
Matarazzo said that she has spoken with every family directly impacted by the incident and continues to communicate back to other individuals that contacted her with related concerns.
“Please expect to receive that early next week. If you would like more information or have concerns to voice, please be in touch,” she said.
Kendall O'Brien tries to keep a loose ball in play.
Francis Bargatti drives through Belchertown defenders.
Westfield's Kendall O'Brien shoots over a group of Belchertown defenders.
Westfield senior Caitlyn Arooth puts up a shot with Evangeline Fallon looking on.
Westfield senior Kaymani Marshall tries for a 3-pointer.
WESTFIELD VS BELCHERTOWN
Westfield girls basketball fell to Belchertown High School on Jan. 22 at home, 42-39.
REMINDER SPORTS PHOTOS TAKEN BY MARC ST. ONGE
Jaylianie Santiago takes a shot over Aubrey Klingensmith.
The 2026 Westfield High girls basketball team before their Jan. 22 game with Belchertown High.
Westfield's Ella Golec passes the ball to Caitlyn Arooth.
Olivia Morrissey takes aim at the basket.
Gateway Regional ambassadors attend Project 351 kickoff in Boston
By Amy Porter aporter@thereminder.com
HUNTINGTON — On Saturday, Jan. 17, five Gateway Regional students joined eighth graders from across the commonwealth to begin their year as 2026 Project 351 ambassadors.
“They spent the day in service of others, had the opportunity to connect with students from across the state and celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King,” said Gateway eighth-grade teacher and Project 351 Coordinator Hannah Sullivan.
Project 351 is a program started under then-Gov. Deval Patrick in 2011 as a movement of hope-in-action, bringing together eighth graders from every city and town in the commonwealth to unite as one “community in service” for causes greater than themselves.
Representing Gateway this year are Leah Boyer from
Speaker
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responded incredibly well to that last year,” McMillan said, adding there is a lot to know and under-
Huntington, Ava Christie from Russell, Ella DeGregorio from Montgomery, Haylee Hussey from Middlefield and Parker McLaughlin from Blandford.
Sullivan, who has been leading the Project 351 effort at Gateway since 2014, said the students are selected by the eighth-grade team and invited to join the community service effort.
Asked why they wanted to join, McLaughlin said, “Because I wanted to help people.”
“I thought it would be a good experience,” said Boyer, with Christie adding, “It seemed fun.”
The group had a busy day.
“We started the day in Faneuil Hall as a whole group — all ambassadors and alumni from across the state. Then, for the afternoon, Haylee and Parker went to Cradles to Crayons in Newton, and Leah, Ava, Ella, and myself went to IBEW 103 in Dorchester, where different charitable organizations had sent up stations,”
stand. “At the end of the day, what I tell students and staff, regardless of our own beliefs, it’s about being a good human being.”
McMillan said what he tries to do when bringing in a speaker is to consider what impact that person will have when they leave.
Sullivan said. She said ambassadors also went to a third service site at La Collaborative, and all afternoon, they assembled hygiene kits and meal kits at the three different sites.
“It was really cool. We helped a lot of people, like 25,000,” said DeGregorio, which is the number of people who were impacted through the work of the ambassadors that day.
At the end of the day, the entire group of about 400 ambassadors reconvened at the JFK Memorial Library for a ceremony and party. “Larger cities have the opportunity to bring more than one student. The party at the end was at the JFK Memorial Library. They had an opportunity to meet all the kids who joined,” said Sullivan.
“The party afterwards was fun,” said Christie.
“We met a lot of people. We’re in a big Project 351 group
“What is it going to do when they leave those doors?”
During a staff meeting following Talley’s visit, he said four or five staff members said that during their 25 years at the school, this was one of the most impactful presentations they’ve ever seen.
“This was one of those presentations that they’re not going to forget. They may not remember word for word what he said, but they will remember absolutely how they made them feel,” McMillan said about the students’ responses.
Wagner
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school season?
Reminder Publishing
chat — there’s like 100 kids in it,” DeGregorio said. The Gateway group also brought home a
He also plans to follow up with a survey to the students for feedback, and what they think about bringing Talley back. If they do, McMillan plans to have him work with some small groups and classrooms. As for the remainder of the Hate Crimes Prevention grant, McMillan said he is looking into professional development for staff and administrators in the building, and also bullying prevention curriculum resources and materials. Although they have the Trails
A: As a senior, as a pitcher, and as a leader, I’m going to make sure the guys are as ready as can be and make sure to keep their heads up at all times and also for myself, just doing the best that I can in every possible way.
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.
AGAWAM
Richard A. Bourdeau Sr.
FEEDING HILLS
Francis J. Cerpovicz
Rosada “Rose” Petrucci
Marie L. Piccoli
SOUTHWICK
Carolyn L. Buchanan
Penny Tsatsos
Karl F. Zinnack Sr. WEST SPRINGFIELD
Norma Berozsky
Marguerite G. Cyr
John A. Reopelle
Jeffrey T. Roberts
Cliffie M. Thompson
WESTFIELD
Virginia A. Hawley
Raymond P. Manos
Enzo C. Masciadrelli
Norberto Otero
Dean R. Sias
Q: Westfield has produced several top-notch pitchers under the direction of longtime varsity head coach Mike Kennedy and a sharp collection of assistant coaches. The biggest thing that’s really stood in the way of this team winning more championships has often been a lack of run support. What advice would you offer your teammates to overcome that obstacle?
to Wellness curriculum, he wants to look into specific resources on bullying, to help students understand what it is, and how to address it — if they see it happening to others, or have experienced it themselves. He said by definition, bullying is repeated and targeted.
McMillan said all of these topics require a community effort. “The school is responsible for having these conversations, which is why we’re doing this, but it’s a community effort. It just can’t be the school system,” he said.
A: The majority of our guys just try to do a little bit too much. … I’m going to tell all the guys this year, as a captain, to ‘just go up there do what you’re capable of and have fun.’
Q: Who has been the most influential person or persons in your baseball career?
A: Obviously my parents are a big help. Without them this isn’t remotely close to happening and then also the coaches that have helped me throughout all my years, building me up to where I am today.
Q: Lastly, what can we expect from this team this year?
A: This team is looking to go as far as it can. I think we’ll be ready to go. We’ve been practicing already in the offseason on the side. We’re going to throw, hit, do all of the normal stuff, just making sure we’ll be ready at all times.
box of hygiene
2026 Project 351 ambassadors from Gateway Regional. Parker McLaughlin of Blandford, Leah Boyer from Huntington, Ava Christie from Russell, Ella DeGregorio from Montgomery, Haylee Hussey from Middlefield and Project 351 coordinator Hannah Sullivan at the Faneuil Hall kickoff on Jan. 17.
submitted photo
See PROJECT 351 on page 9
The Majestic to offer free program for aspiring performers
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Becoming a professional actor is usually a long process that can involve expensive classes and endless auditions. However, half a dozen aspiring thespians will have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals and gain some acting credits this summer at The Majestic Theater in West Springfield.
“I’m thrilled to be creating this program,” said Apprentice Program Director Chelsie Nectow. “We’re seeking to provide
emerging artists in the Pioneer Valley with hands-on training and professional credits,” said Nectow. She said there is no other program like this in the region. Not only is the program not tuition-based like those in Boston and Lennox, but it also provides a $250 per week stipend.
The program, which will run from late June through mid-August, will include several workshops taught by members of the Majestic, as well as outside experts. Topics will vary from resume building to audition tips and intimacy coordination.
Nectow said, “It’s part of our job to have an understanding and respect for all the different parts of running a theater.” As such, the program will also provide experience working in the box office, concessions, the marketing department and with the technical aspects of production. The apprentices will be cast in one or both Majestic Children’s Theater’s productions. This season, the shows staged for younger audiences are “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!: The Musical!” and “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.”
The ideal candidate pool is college-aged — higher education is not necessary — with “relevant theatrical experience,” Nectow said. She added that performance experience can include community theater, and candidates should have pursued some voice, dance or acting classes. Artists of all genders, races, ethnicities and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Nectow said the Children’s Theater seemed like a good fit for the Apprentice Program because the Majestic already pays young performers for the two
summertime shows. Nectow is excited that the theater is offering the program. She began her theater career through a similar apprentice program at a different theater company. Nectow joined the Majestic Theater as an actor in 2022, eventually becoming more involved in the behindthe-scenes work.
Video applications open Feb. 2 at majestictheater.com/apprentice. The submission should include information about the candidate’s background, theatrical goals, a dance reel and two songs. A callback process will follow.
SSO to present ‘Planet Earth: A Symphonic Journey’ Feb. 14
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Symphony Orchestra will present “Planet Earth: A Symphonic Journey,” a family-friendly matinée on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, Feb. 14 at 3 p.m. at Springfield Symphony Hall.
The afternoon performance will feature a Planet Earth film over the orchestra, and pre-concert activities for all ages hosted by the Springfield Museums, the SSO’s community partner for this concert.
The concert will have the Springfield Symphony Orchestra performing both U.S. and world premieres of compositions by renowned guest conductor and composer Johan de Meij.; Tickets for “Planet Earth” are now on sale, starting at $25, online at SpringfieldSymphony.org, or by calling the SSO Box Office at 413-733-2291.
The 3 p.m. concert is envisioned to be a family-friendly Valentine’s Day experience, with a multimedia performance and pre-concert activities for adults and children alike.
According to Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the SSO, “This concert is about opening the doors wider at Symphony Hall and reimagining what a symphony experience can be for families today. From Holst’s ‘Jupiter’ to Johan de Meij’s ‘Planet Earth’ and the world premiere of his T-Bone Concerto, this program blends big orchestral sound with film, storytelling and a sense of discovery.
“Our partnership with the Springfield Museums adds handson fun before the music even begins, giving families a chance to explore, ask questions and connect science and art in real time. It’s immersive, it’s accessible, and yes, you’ll still be out in time for Valentine’s Day dinner.”
De Meij’s “Symphony No. 3 Planet Earth” is an ode to “Mother Earth,” performed for the first
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kits and meal kits assembled by ambassadors from across the state that were donated to the Gateway Free Store.
All but Hussey said this was their first experience doing community service. “I helped with community soccer programs, but that’s it,” she said.
Sullivan said the next step for the group is a spring service project. “Project 351 students typically support Cradles to Crayons, a statewide organization. We have always supported It Takes
time in the U.S. on the Springfield Symphony Hall stage. The film, created by de Meij’s wife, Dyan Machan, and directed by Jed Parker, will accompany the music on a big screen over the orchestra, making for a multi-dimensional experience for concertgoers. Also of note is the world premiere of de Meij’s “T-Bone Concerto,” consisting of three movements: Rare, Medium and Well Done. This piece will be highlighted by legendary trombonist Joseph Alessi, principal trombone of the New York Philharmonic, performing with the orchestra. The concert will also feature Gustav Holst’s famous Jupiter.
Concertgoers of all ages are encouraged to arrive early to take part in activities hosted by various science clubs affiliated with the Springfield Museums. Featured clubs will include the STARS Club, the Connecticut Valley Mineral Club and Naturalists Club, among others, and the Springfield Museums will also have a table with activities and information.
De Meij has garnered international acclaim for his compositions. He has written five symphonies including “Symphony No. 2 The Big Apple” and “Symphony No. 3 Planet Earth,” and 10 solo concertos, including “T-Bone Concerto” (trombone) and Casanova (cello). His “Symphony No. 1 The Lord of the Rings” was awarded the Sudler Composition Prize in Chicago and has been recorded by myriad ensembles including The London Symphony Orchestra and The North Netherlands Orchestra.
De Meij has conducted in prestigious venues and has received 31 awards and nominations, including first prize at the International Composition Competition of Corciano, Italy for Casanova, the Dutch Wind Music Award, the Buma Classical
a Village and its store within the school for the spring service project,” she said, adding that there is another service project in the fall, when the Project 351 students do a 9/11 tribute and collect food. She said the fall project is run by the high school.
Award and the Buma Wind Music Award. De Meij received his musical training at the Royal Conservatory of Music in The Hague.
Before devoting his time exclusively to composing and conducting, de Meij enjoyed a successful professional career as a trombone and euphonium player, performing with the major orchestras and ensembles in The Netherlands.
Trombonist Joseph Alessi was appointed Principal Trombone of the New York Philharmonic in the spring of 1985. He is an active soloist, recitalist, and chamber music performer and has also participated in numerous festivals. In 2002, Alessi was awarded an International Trombone Association Award for his contributions to the world of
Asked what she likes best about Project 351, Sullivan said, “I think it gives ambassadors the chance to meet other students across the state, and they get to help the commonwealth at the same time. It broadens their worldviews.”
trombone music and trombone playing, and in 2014, was elected president of that association. Alessi is currently on the faculty of The Juilliard School; his students now occupy posts with many major symphony orchestras in the U.S. and internationally.
MassMutual and Massachusetts Cultural Council are season sponsors for the 2025-26 season. For more information and to purchase tickets for the 2025-26 season’s concerts, visit springfieldsymphony.org.
From left: Dutch composer and conductor Johan de Meij. Trombonist Joseph Alessi. Reminder Publishing submitted photos
