PSA-20260219

FEBRUARY 19, 2026 | FREE

IN THIS

EDITION WESTFIELD

Residents applaud vote after 10-year struggle to fix street Residents applauded the City Council for its vote at the Feb. 5 meeting to appropriate $270,000 from free cash for the milling and overlay of Park River Drive and Park Circle.

Page 4

SOUTHWICK

Nonprofit group will build dog park off Hudson Drive A nonprofit group that has been working to secure a location to build a dog park in town announced at the Select Board meeting on Feb. 9 that it has property and plans for the park.

Page 6

HUNTINGTON

Residents vote against financing for Basket Street project A Special Town Meeting scheduled for Feb. 11 in Stanton Hall to discuss covering the costs for the Basket Street Water Main Extension project resulted in a unanimous no vote at the recommendation of the Selectboard.

Page 7

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Perron announces campaign for state rep.

By Cliff Clark

cclark@thereminder.com

SOUTHWICK — Jason M. Perron, Air Force veteran, career law enforcement officer, and former Southwick Select Board member and chair, has announced he is running for the 3rd Hampden District seat in the House of Representatives.

“The people of this district deserve representation that puts people over party,” Perron said in his announcement. “Too often, decisions made at the State House feel disconnected from the real lives of the people they affect — especially out here in Western Massachusetts.”

Perron is running as an Independent because he believes voters deserve representation that is focused on people, not party politics.

He joins Democrat Tom Hendrickson in a bid to claim the seat of Republican incumbent state Rep. Nicholas Boldyga, who didn’t return a message to indicate whether he will be seeking reelection.

Perron has spent nearly three decades in public service as an Air Force veteran, a career law enforcement officer and a former Southwick Select Board member.

“My years in the Air Force and as a police officer provided me with examples of great leadership,” he said. “It taught me that leadership is earned through discipline, accountability, and service — not titles.”

“Standing my ground and doing what was right in negotiations wasn’t always pleasant or comfortable,” Perron said. “But leadership means making difficult choices and seeing them through.”

Perron said Western Massachusetts deserves a representative who shows up consistently in every community — not just during

election season.

He racked up a string of accomplishments while serving on the Select Board, including spearheading the effort to establish the municipal aggregation program in Southwick.

He also brought forth proposed zoning and policy changes to support responsible economic development and authored the town’s flag policy to prevent constitutional and civil rights conflicts.

His decision to run came from something he has believed for a long time: he is not the type of person who can sit back and complain, he said.

“I listened to people say for years that they weren’t getting what they needed from government,” he said. “But I also watched election cycles go by where almost nobody stepped up to run and do better. When the last election cycle went by, and there was only one candidate, that’s when I really started thinking seriously about whether I should do this.”

Perron compares this campaign to the biggest “firsts” in his life — Southwick High School as the new kid, basic training, becoming a police officer, husband, father and serving on the Select Board.

“Every one of those moments forced me to learn, grow and earn it,” he said. “And I walked into the Select Board the same way — learning and growing — and I proved to myself that I am capable.”

Perron said his campaign will focus on cost-of-living, energy costs, government transparency, fair funding for Western Massachusetts and practical public safety policy.

“Massachusetts has become one of the most expensive places

Former Select Board Chair Jason Perron announced he is running to represent the 3rd Hampden District in the House of Representatives.

Reminder Publishing file photo

in the country to live,” Perron said.

“Families are getting squeezed from every direction — energy, housing, healthcare, taxes and everyday costs. We need a representative who understands what it’s like to live here, work here, raise a family here and fight for this region to get its fair share.”

“I answer to the people of this district,” Perron said. “And I’ll work with anyone — Republican, Democrat, or Independent — if it helps our towns and our region.”

Perron lived in Blandford as a child, attended Gateway Regional schools, graduated from Southwick High School, lived in Granville, lived in Southwick from 1990 to 1993 before join-

ing the Air Force, spent more than 20 years living in Westfield raising his family and serving the public, and returned to Southwick in 2019.

“I’m not running against anyone,” Perron said. “I’m running for the people of this district.”

The 3rd Hampden district includes parts of Agawam and Feeding Hills and the towns of Southwick, Granville, Blandford, Tolland, Russell, Montgomery, Huntington, Chester and Middlefield.

For more information about Perron, visit candidates. goodparty.org/jperronfor3rdhampden or email him at jason14xxx@gmail.com.

FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026 | PENNYSAVER

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STRM: Whitfield talks tenure as City Council president

By Dennis Hackett

dhackett@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — On the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me,” hosts Ryan Feyre and Tyler Garnet sat down with Springfield City Council President Tracye Whitfield to talk about her tenure as City Council president.

Whitfield discussed what a City Council president does, which includes presiding over the meetings, coming up with the agenda for the meetings and deciding subcommittee assignments for the city councilors. She also said that there are new challenges as the president.

“I’m still learning the role and it’s interesting, I get a lot more calls, a lot more invites to events — I do try to attend as many as I can, but I also work with the other city councilors and try to get them the same exposure, I like to share everything, but it’s definitely challenging,” Whitfield said.

She also discussed a recent conflict of interest violation from the Feb. 2 council meeting after she did not recuse from presiding over a public hearing involving a property on Wallace Street her son Jelani Bland had requested be discontinued. His company, which Whitfield is a part of, is interested in building on the land on the abutting property. For fuller coverage of this issue, head to thereminder.com or pick up the Feb. 19 edition of the Springfield Reminder.

Alongside the rules violation, Whitfield explained that one of the things she is doing as council president is creating a training framework to help new councilors.

“I was really interested in doing that because when I joined the council in 2018, there was like literally no training. You just sit down, you take conflict of interest training on your own; no one to explain anything, there’s just like no training at all, and I want to be a different president,” she said.

Whitfield also said that she is planning on holding office hours as well.

“I just want the public to know that I am here and I’m obtainable, I am available and I hope that the community takes advantage of that,” she said.

Springfield City Council President Tracye Whitfield (center) sits down with “So That Reminds Me” hosts Ryan Feyre and Tyler Garnet.

Reminder Publishing photo by Chris Maza

She also discussed what it meant to her to be the first woman of color to be the Springfield City Council president and said that she never thought about being in politics when she was growing up.

“I mean it means everything to me, because now I am a role model. So even when I make mistakes, I have to own them and take accountability for the things that I do, and I’m always gonna do that because no one knows everything,” she said. “Just being a role model to other young people so they know that your path might take you in different directions then you planned, but everything you learn along the way is helping to build your skillset to go in different paths than you initially planned.”

Whitfield also reflected on how long it took for a woman of color to be the president of the council.

“It just means a great deal to just show, especially young girls, that they can be anything

they want to be, because this is 250 years in the making. I hope breaking this barrier it’ll open other doors where a woman of color hasn’t been in a position,” she said.

Looking at the makeup of the council she is presiding over, she said it’s a good balance of people.

“I think there is a good balance on the council as far as race and ethnicity — well, we could use a couple more females — but we’re getting there, even the age differences within the council, I think it’s a good balance,” she said.

Whitfield said another area she wants to improve on is creating more “robust” small business support in the city.

“We have a lot of people leaving because there’s not a lot of resources for small businesses. I also run a statewide coalition, and so when I go throughout the state, I see other initiatives that I’m like ‘oh, we can do that in Springfield,’ but it’s not as easy to implement

change in Springfield, so I think that is very much needed,” she said. “We have to get small business technical assistance going for our small businesses to make sure that they have their back-office supports services together, like their accounting, marketing, business plan, their legal, all that in place, so when it’s time to get loans and grants and things like that, they’re ready.”

One area Whitfield said Springfield could use some improvement in is with educating residents about clean energy practices.

“I do think we still have a lot more work to do as far as educating our residents on conversions, like maybe to fuel pumps and other clean energy types … the rebates and what it means to have a clean environment,” she said.

“We have work to do, but I still think that it can be done.”

Whitfield added that she was looking at getting a fuel pump because she currently uses oil.

During the sit-down, Whitfield talked about challenges with creating affordable housing, working on the city’s budget, economic development and much more.

Whitfield added that she wanted to change the narrative around the city.

“We have a lot of great assets, we are the City of Firsts. [I] just want to change the narrative to a more positive narrative than what some of the surrounding communities may hear, think, or speak, because it’s just really not true.

Usually people that are involved in the violence live that life, it’s not happening randomly,” she said. “I just want to change the narrative on how people think and talk about Springfield, as well.”

To hear the full episode, visit thereminder.com/our-podcast or search “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform.

Pickleball tournament to benefit local Habitat for Humanity WESTFIELD — Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) is hosting a high-energy pickleball tournament at The Picklr, at 415 E. Main St., Westfield Shops, Retail A-1, from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., on Sunday, March 29, bringing together players of all skill levels for a full day of fun in support of affordable housing in Western Massachusetts.

The tournament is a two-player, teamed Round Robin event, with the day divided into timed sections based on skill level to ensure competitive and enjoyable play for everyone. Registration is required, and tickets are $50 per person. All proceeds from the event will benefit Greater Springfield Habitat and its mission to build strength, stability and self-re-

liance through shelter.

In addition to tournament play, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets and Habitat merchandise throughout the day.

“This tournament is about more than pickleball — it’s about community,” said Aimee Giroux, executive director of Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity. “Every serve, rally, and point

played helps us move closer to a future where everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home.

We’re grateful to The Picklr and to everyone who shows up to support this important work.”

GSHFH is also seeking event sponsors to help make the tournament a success. Sponsorship opportunities include four levels: • Ace Sponsor — $1,500

• Kitchen Sponsor — $1,000 • Court Sponsor — $750 • Community Sponsor — $500 Sponsors will receive recognition and visibility while directly supporting affordable housing efforts in the region.

For registration details, sponsorship information, and event updates, visit habitatspringfield. org/pickleball

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PENNYSAVER | FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026

2026 Sons of Erin Colleen is crowned for Westfield

By Amy Porter

aporter@thereminder.com

WESTFIELD — At the Sons of Erin Colleen Ball at Tekoa Country Club on Friday, Feb. 6, Reese O’Connell was crowned 2026 colleen and will ride in the Westfield float in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on March 22. She will be surrounded by her court members, Giara Curran, Maggie Leen, Savanna Mazeika and Angelica Madison Racette.

O’Connell, 17, of Westfield, is a senior at Hampshire Regional High School, where she is captain of the varsity lacrosse team and editor for the yearbook committee. She is a member of the peer buddies club, for which she teaches elementary school students through an enrichment program, and is a teacher’s assistant for the occupational therapist at Norris Elementary School.

After high school, O’Connell plans on attending Johnson and Wales University to pursue a career as a pediatric occupational therapist. She said Johnson and Wales has a three-plus-three year program, in which she can obtain her bachelor’s degree in three years and her doctorate in three years. “That’s one of the main reasons I would like to go there,” she said.

O’Connell is the first Sons of Erin colleen from the Hampshire Regional District in Westhampton, where her father, Michael O’Connell, teaches physical education at the Hampshire and New Hingham elementary schools.

She said both sides of her family, which also includes her mother, Charlene O’Connell, and sister Kennae, have Irish roots, and her great-grandfather on one side moved here from Ireland.

Her grandparents, Michael and Ellen O’Connell, are members of the Sons of Erin, and the ones who encouraged her to try out to be a colleen.

“We’ve gone to the Sons of Erin every St. Patrick’s Day. My grandparents always wanted me to do it, and pointed to the photos of the girls on the wall.” O’Connell said. Her friend Maddie LeClair, a member of the 2025 court, also pushed her to apply.

O’Connell said a couple of days after the Colleen Ball, she and the members of the court met up at the Sons of Erin. “My grandpa was there. It was the first time I’ve seen him since I was announced. He was so excited,” she said.

“I’m the only girl that did it from Hampshire. I’ve never really done things outside of my school. Meeting everyone the last couple of weeks was amazing. I didn’t know anyone in the court. This was way outside of my comfort zone doing any of this,” O’Connell said, adding, ”I am so excited, I don’t think I fully even processed it — I’m still in shock.”

Ironically, O’Connell said she has never been to the parade before, which is only one of many different events in which the colleen and her court will participate. Other activities include learning Irish dances, helping with the golf tournament and road race, and meeting the bishop and mayor. “There are a lot of different events through the next

month and a half,” she said.

“I’m really excited, I wasn’t expecting this at all. I’m going to try to soak up every minute. It’s such a unique experience; not many people get to do all this.

I’m so grateful,” O’Connell said.

Three members of the court are from Westfield High School.

Giara Curran, 17, is a senior at WHS. She is a National Honor Society member and takes college classes at Westfield State University through the Promise Program. She is also a Student Council representative, Key Club member and captain of the lacrosse team.

Upon graduation, Curran plans on attending Gordon College, where she plans on pursuing a double major in accounting on a CPA track and finance. She was offered a spot at Gordon on both the women’s field hockey and lacrosse teams. She also plans on joining the Air National Guard.

Maggie, Leen, 18, is a senior at WHS. A drum major for the WHS band, she is a member of the National Honor Society and the Tri-M Music Honor Society. She is also a member of the Key Club, the Student Assistant Leadership Team, and the swim and dive team.

Upon graduation, Leen plans on attending college and pursuing a degree in psychology. She said she would like to work in the psychology field to help others who are struggling.

Savanna Mazeika, 17, is also a senior at WHS. She is a member of the National Honor Society, a high honor roll student, participates in Letters for Rose, and volunteers at the Westfield Soup Kitchen. She is currently training to become a CNA and will receive her certification in May. Mazeika has been accepted into a competitive law program at Siena College, where she will receive her juris doctorate in five years. She has a goal of becoming an immigration lawyer “to help protect those who cannot protect themselves.”

Angelica Racette, 17, is a junior at Southwick Regional High School. She is a member of the National Honor Society and varsity lacrosse team, and was a member of the varsity field hockey team, which won the Western Massachusetts Class C Championship title this past fall. Racette was accepted to represent Western Massachusetts in the Global Glimpse Program and will be going to Panama to help children and families in local villages.

Upon graduation, Racette said she hopes to attend an Ivy League School such as Yale or Brown and major in pre-law with a minor in psychology. She would also like to join Army ROTC. She plans to continue her lacrosse career, whether as part of a club or college team.

All of the contestants received a Claddagh ring as a remembrance. Those selected for the court also received a trinket box, an Irish kilt and sweater, and will ride on the Sons of Erin float in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day parade.

The colleen also receives a crown and a trip for two to Ireland, a first for O’Connell. “I’ve always wanted to,” she said, adding that she will probably go

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Reese Elinor-Janet O’Connell, the 2026 Sons of Erin colleen.

Reminder Publishing photo by Marc St. Onge

with her dad.

Colleen Ball coordinator Tracy Oleksak said all of the contestants did a great job and were a pleasure to meet. “They all seemed to get along well and

really connected with each other.

After the interviews, they even crashed a line dancing session that was being held at Tekoa. I wish we could have kept all 12 of them,” she said.

“The colleen and her court as a great representation of the group as a whole and will be wonderful representatives of the Sons of Erin and the greater Westfield Community,” added Oleksak.

FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026 | PENNYSAVER

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WESTFIELD

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Residents applaud vote after 10-year struggle to fix street

By Amy Porter

aporter@thereminder.com

WESTFIELD — Residents applauded the City Council for its vote at the Feb. 5 meeting to appropriate $270,000 from free cash for the milling and overlay of Park River Drive and Park Circle, which was taken out of order due to the large contingent in the gallery.

Ward 4 Councilor Michael Burns welcomed his constituents to the meeting. He said the situation was unique because for 10 years the council had tried to accept Park River Drive and Park Circle as public ways, but had not yet been able to accomplish the street acceptance.

“When I first came on the job, I knocked on a door and met Scott Thomas,” Burns said, referring to the president of the homeowners association, who was trying to address problems they were having.

He said every member of Park River Drive and Park Circle had “ponied up money” and had a sewer system put in by themselves. He said they used to be connected to the condos next door, but that wasn’t working be-

cause every time the power went down in the city, which he said happened a lot in Ward 4, it would back up into the condos.

Burns said the residents pooled their money and paid between $100,000 and $150,000 to put in two pumps and a pump station, which they own and are responsible for. He said the city didn’t want to take on the responsibility. “They were told, if they did that, the street would be accepted (as a public way),” he said.

Burns said during that time, the city had three different mayors, different city engineers and two DPW directors. He said when a new engineer came on board, the street was not accepted.

Burns said with the help of Councilors Karen Fanion and William Onyski, they decided to go a different route. The city has an ordinance that allows temporary repair of private ways, which they changed from 50 years to 30 years. “That’s where we stand with this,” he said.

Burns said he knows the cost is high at $270,000, but there are 29 homes impacted. “This is the first one under this ordinance, and

as far as I’m concerned, it’s the best one. Thank you for your patience,” he said.

City Councilor James Adams said it wasn’t the fault of the neighborhood that the road has been falling apart. He said the street wasn’t intended to be built as a public way, and said there are now safeguards in place to make sure that doesn’t happen again.

Adams said he never heard of residents on a street doing what they did, putting in a sewer line.

“You’re still going to be taking care of your pumps and all that stuff. I wish we could take that street. This is the only way we can pave your street, with free cash,” he said, adding, “People say it’s a lot of money, but it isn’t their fault.

Hopefully, we can move forward on that and someday, your street will be accepted.”

Burns said the street will be paved with cold in-place recycling. “What they do is reclaim the materials and put them right back down. This particular way, it has 15 to 18 years on top of the regular 10 years for pavement.”

City Councilor Kristen Mello asked if the money is spent work-

Westfield City Council votes to appropriate $275,000 for Park River Drive and Park Circle roads.

Photo credit: Westfield Community TV

ing on the road, will the road be more acceptable as a street?

“As it stands now, they’re going to maintain the pumps and the generators down there. Someday, hopefully, we can accept it,” Burns said, adding that the sewer infrastructure was put in last year in response to a question from City Councilor Dan Allie.

The vote to appropriate the funds was unanimous and was met by applause from the residents.

“I feel good for them down there; they’ve jumped through hoops. I’m just happy for them,” Burn said after the meeting.

“When they were walking out of there, there were people in tears.” He said the residents are plowed out by the city, their children are on the school buses, and they pay for sewer, water and fiber. “They are totally a regular street except the fact that they didn’t call it a street. It probably never was going to be accepted,” Burns said.

He said the City Council came up with a way around it, with an ordinance for temporary fixes of private ways. “This is going to be a permanent fix, believe me,” Burns said.

Southampton Road students have hands-on fun at STEAM night

By Amy Porter

aporter@thereminder.com

WESTFIELD — Southampton Road Elementary School held its second STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) night for third and fourth graders and their siblings, in partnership with students and staff from the Jandon Center for Community Engagement at Smith College.

SRS STEAM teacher Jessica Hanson said the school has been partnering for the last two years with the Jandon Center’s education initiative, which they connected with through a parent, Nancy Ziegler, who works there. Besides the STEAM night, they’ve benefitted from the Center’s Robotics Outreach Initiative, which organizes teams of Smith students to create robotics workshops and classes.

The Robotics Outreach team ran an eight-week robotics club for fourth graders at SRS over the past two falls. Hanson said the club was so popular, she had to hold a lottery to select up to a dozen students to participate this year.

The first year, the robotics club, using Lego Mind Storm robots, ran them through a craze maze.

This past fall, club participants coded the robots to bowl a ball.

The Robotics team brought their robots to STEAM night,

giving all of the students who attended the opportunity to participate in a diner dash, in which the robots pushed “food” items from one restaurant to another.

Seamus Golen, 9, who attended STEAM night with his nana, Polly Carlen, said he had taken part in the robotics club. “It was really fun, we got to play and code with the robots. There were lots of fun activities,” he said.

Asli Ali coordinates the Robotics Outreach. She said in the program, logistics and curriculum are student-led and open to Smith students in all disciplines. The team at SRS on Feb. 10 said they were studying engineering, public health and education.

In addition to K-12 schools, the Jandon Center’s community partners have included the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holyoke, the Connecticut Science Center, the People’s Science Fair and the Girl Scouts.

The Jandon Center also brought telescopes and samples from nature, which students viewed at 10 and 20 times magnification while staffer Hannah Gates talked about what they were observing.

Parent Eric Babci, who works for Cartamundi in East Longmeadow, brought the ingredients they use to make Hasbro’s Play-

Smith students in the Jandon Center for Community Engagement’s Robotics Outreach Initiative lead Southampton Road Elementary students through a diner dash with their robots.

Reminder Publishing photo by Amy Porter

Doh, including flour, salt, water, fragrance and pigments. He talked about the science behind the toy, bringing a video showing how it is made. Babci said they bring leftover Play-Doh bits to area farms for the animals to eat.

Another parent taught the students how to stitch fabric on large samples, which Hanson called a lost art. On Hanson’s table, she

brought her robots and a Makey Makey activity, in which students could plug into a banana and play piano on a computer.

Kindergartener Logan Paulson was using magnetic tiles to build marble runs with his father Charles Paulson. “Logan likes to build things. His older brother is really into it,” Paulson said.

Other SRS student partic-

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ipants were playing with a giant Connect 4 game and drawing pictures, among many other activities.

SRS Principal Kate Ritchie and Hanson expressed their appreciation for the Jandon Center.

“They’re such great role models for young girls,” Hanson said, adding that SRS is lucky to have built the partnership with them.

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Town answers lawsuit with motion to dismiss

overcharged it by adding a “0” to the end of the actual water meter readings, causing it to be charged for an extra 10 million gallons per bill, totaling 40 million gallons.

It also alleges the town improperly charged its properties’ water usage at a higher “tier 3” rate despite a policy the town’s Water Commission adopted in November 2023, capping rates at the lower “tier 2 rate” for multiple residential rental units.

Before November 2023, for customers using up to 15,000 gallons during six months, the tier 1 rate was $7.50 per 1,000 gallons; for customers using between 10,000 and 30,000 in six months, the tier 2 rate was $8.10 per 1,000 gallons, and for those using over 30,000 gallons in six months, the tier 3 rate was $8.75 per 1,000 gallons.

Southwick Care’s opposition motion also said it couldn’t ask for an abatement or challenge a lien on the property because of an unpaid bill, because “[it] paid all of the water charges assessed upon it by the town, and so no lien was placed [on the property], so the case law cited by the town doesn’t apply.” “[Southwick Care] claims could not be rectified by the administrative remedies cited by the [town],” according to the opposition motion.

Regarding the town’s allegation that Southwick Care didn’t file the lawsuit within “statutory deadlines,” it cited case law that there is no statute of limitations in the case law the town cites, alleging Southwick Care didn’t exhaust administrative remedies.

The town deferred commenting on the litigation as it is ongoing.

Goldberg asks lawmakers to OK expansion of Lottery

By Sam Drysdale

State House News Service

and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues when the state’s online Lottery would be ready to launch, Goldberg said “This summer,

it’s coming up.”

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BOSTON — Treasurer Deb Goldberg said the Massachusetts Lottery is holding steady but warned lawmakers that rising costs and competition continue to threaten future growth.

Testifying before the Joint Committee on Ways and Means reviewing Gov. Maura Healey’s fiscal year 2027 budget, Goldberg said the Lottery is on track to meet current projections even as retail sales plateau and expenses climb.

“Turning to the Massachusetts State Lottery, we are currently on track to meet its projection of $1.050 billion in net profit for fiscal year 2026, despite economic headwinds and continuing impacts from the competitive marketplace,” Goldberg said.

“For fiscal year 2027 we project flat sales at retail and therefore a flat net profit of $1.050 billion.”

Goldberg, whose office oversees the Lottery, said flat retail sales reflect broader shifts in the gaming marketplace, particularly the growth of online options.

Since the introduction of casino-style gambling here in 2015, Goldberg has been warning that the proliferation of gambling options could take a bite out of the Lottery. But the agency has continued to return record or near-record levels of profit for the Legislature to use as local aid.

To address the imbalance, she urged lawmakers to adopt a technical update included in Healey’s budget that would allow the Lottery to enter contracts for certain retail games it has not previously been able to offer, including the NFL Powerball game and future monitor-style games to complement Keno.

“This change will help the Lottery compete and will level the playing field between online and retail games,” she said.

“Without inclusion of this language, certain games will only be available online and not at retail, taking away valuable commissions and foot traffic from mom

and pop stores statewide. I respectfully request your support of this outside section.”

When asked by Senate Ways

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MPTON

SOUTHWICK — In a motion made by the town to answer a lawsuit filed against it by Southwick Care LLC, it said the limited liability company didn’t exhaust all “administrative avenues” before filing the civil lawsuit in Hampden Superior Court, and therefore, should be dismissed.

“Southwick Care is a property owner who has paid allegedly excessive water bills between Nov. 19, 2020, and April 2025, but did not avail itself of either of these two administrative avenues,” referring in the lawsuit to Massachusetts General Law in the motion to dismiss filed by Ryan O’Hara of Bacon Wilson PC on behalf of the town on Jan. 29.

In December, Southwick Care filed the lawsuit because it alleges it was overcharged by $333,393 by the town for water, which it paid, and its demands for reimbursement by the town “had gone unanswered.”

Southwick Care countered the town’s argument in its motion before the court, claiming that, essentially, there is no administrative avenue to request a refund for the overbilling, according to the motion filed

by Lauren F. Olanoff of the Boston law firm Egan, Flanagan & Cohen.

The facts presented in the lawsuit by Southwick Care indicated that between November 2020 and April 2025, it used 5.1 million gallons of water for its assisted living facility — Southwick Village — that has 58 residential rental units at 802 College Highway.

It alleges it should have been charged $40,798 between

lenge a water usage charge is to apply for an abatement by filing a petition with the Water Commission by the end of the sixmonth billing cycle, according to the town’s motion.

If the outcome doesn’t satisfy the applicant, they can appeal to the Appellate Tax Board within three months.

“There is limited decisional law applying these provisions.

Taken together, they establish a clear and comprehensive regulatory regime for challenging water charges,” according to the town’s motion.

Citing case law, the town argues that court action can only begin “after all these administrative remedies have been exhausted.”

Southwick Care didn’t elect to follow either procedure, “as a result, it failed to exhaust its administrative remedies.”

It also didn’t file the lawsuit within the “statutory deadlines for administrative remedies,” according to its motion.

Southwick Care countered the town’s motion, arguing that it wasn’t required to challenge the accuracy of the water meter or owe any money on its bill that required a request for an abatement, according to Southwick Care’s opposition to the town’s motion.

“In fact, [the town’s] claim for breach of contract arises not from a claim of a faulty or inaccurate meter, but rather, a billing error whereby the town incorrectly overcharged [Southwick Care] for its water usage and charged [Southwick Care] at a higher rate in violation of the town’s own rate tiering policy,” according to Southwick Care’s opposition to the town’s motion.

In Southwick Care’s original lawsuit, it alleged the town

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those dates.

Instead, between April 2021 and April 2025, the town charged Southwick Care $374,191, “which corresponds to 46.1 million gallons at the tier 3 rate,” which was $8.75 per 1,000 gallons for most of that time.

The town acknowledged overcharging Southwick Care for the amounts listed in the lawsuit.

“The bills for these charges erroneously multiplied water usage by a factor of 10 …

[Southwick Care] paid an estimated $333,393 in excess of the water usage and rates it ought to have been charged,” according to the town’s motion to dismiss.

The town described in its motion to dismiss its two administrative remedies for disputes.

“Water users dissatisfied with the charges assessed to them have [two] options for challenging the charges,” according to the motion.

The first is to have the town check that the water meter is accurate during the time of the water usage being billed for, and before the expiration of the time when the rate for such quarter or period is required to be paid, according to the town’s motion.

The town must then conduct a test and provide a written report. “…if it appears that the meter has not registered within [2%] of accuracy and that person has been charged with, or has paid for, more that he should have been charged with or should have paid for, the amount of such excess shall forthwith be credited to such person or remitted to him if he has paid the same,” according to the town’s motion.

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Nonprofit group will build dog park off Hudson Drive

By Cliff Clark

cclark@thereminder.com

SOUTHWICK — A nonprofit group that has been working to secure a location to build a dog park in town announced at the Select Board meeting on Feb. 9 that it has a property and plans for the park, and that it will gift it to the town at no cost to the taxpayer when completed. “[We’re] asking the Town of Southwick to accept our gift of 32plus acres located at 67 Hudson Drive, which includes the future homes of Dillinger’s Park, Southwick’s community-minded, intergenerational dog park, which will have multiple parks to include a park for senior dogs and senior folks,” said Keith Deyo, one of five members of the Friends of Southwick Dog Park, Inc. who made the announcement.

Deyo said one of the key aspects of the proposed park is that it will be senior-citizen friendly for dog owners, which he said a lot of parks don’t have because too often senior communities don’t feel comfortable going to one.

The area just north of the proposed Sam West Road and Hudson Drive Connection, will be more than a dog park, he said.

It will provide parking for northern access to the Rail Trail.

“This park will provide some additional north area parking. It’ll be covered and lighted,” Deyo said, explaining later that the covered parking area will include solar panels installed on the roof to feed electricity into the grid.

And there will be a 22-acre area that will be called The Wilds, which will be a natural preserved forest, riverfront, wetlands, and animal habitats for community exploration and enjoyment.

The 32 acres are being gifted from the current owner, Tilcon Minerals, Inc., to the Friends of Southwick Dog Park. It includes the land needed for the Sam West/ Hudson Drive connector.

“And this is a big one roadway completion,” Deyo said.

“An unencumbered track of property gifted to the town of Southwick to complete the future connection of Sam West Road to Hudson Drive.”

Friends’ member Mark Kuenzel provided the key benefits of the project and what he called “financial assurances.”

It will be a gift to the town

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at no cost to residents, fully funded by grants, private donors, volunteers and Mother Nature, Kuenzel said.

It will be built on natural, permeable ground surfaces with drought-tolerant plantings to minimize maintenance expenses, have an on-site well for planting and dog fountains, which will eliminate municipal water costs, he said.

“The conveyance of the property to the town of Southwick [will be] saving taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars in future legal fees, easements, and administrative costs — with zero tax impact,” Kuenzel said.

Deyo stressed the park was designed not just to serve the community, but to do so responsibly and sustainably without any financial burden to the town or its residents.

To pay for the project, Deyo said the Friends have already gotten donor commitments for certain phases of development and amenities for the park.

“We have plans to continue to conduct continuous community fundraisings throughout the design and development and construction phases to supplement grant funding,” he said, adding later that there are numerous private foundations that provide grant funding for dog parks.

Kuenzel and Deyo answered some of the questions they expected from the board members and residents.

The town is not purchasing the property, so it will have no impact on taxes.

The Friends will not apply for Community Preservation Act funding.

They stressed that the cost to build the property will be zero.

“Construction costs vary depending on scope and volunteer involvement, but the cost to the town will remain zero,” Kuenzel said.

As for the reason why the group will give it to the town when completed, “The town ownership ensures equal access, maintains municipal insurance coverage and preserves public benefit,” he said.

Deyo said traffic on Hudson Drive would not be affected.

“Dog park traffic is similar to playground traffic — light, brief and spread throughout the day,” he said.

INFLATION

This is the proposed layout of Dillinger’s Dog Park the nonprofit Friends of Southwick Dog Park, Inc., plans to build off Hudson Drive on 32 acres it was gifted by Tilcon Minerals, Inc. The organization announced that once built, it will be given to the town, at no cost, to taxpayers.

Reminder Publishing submitted photo

He also addressed whether the town would lose tax revenue by accepting the property, taking it off the rolls.

Deyo said that because the Friends are a 501c3 and tax-exempt, if it maintained ownership, it still wouldn’t be responsible for taxes on it.

About Tilcon Minerals donating the property, Deyo said a presentation was made to the

company’s president, and she “fully endorsed the proposed use of this property.”

Kuenzel described a few of the benefits of the park and additional parking for the Rail Trail.

“Dillinger’s Park and the Rail Trail Park area will serve not only local residents, but also draw visitors, support nearby businesses, provide the open space envisioned in the area de-

velopment plan and reinforce Southwick’s community identity,” Kuenzel said.

Later, Deyo went into greater detail about why the park will feature an area for senior citizens.

“In doing some research on grants, you’d be surprised how many grants are out there for dog parks that have senior parks withSee DOG PARK on page 7

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Residents vote against financing for Basket Street project

By Amy Porter

aporter@thereminder.com

HUNTINGTON — A Special Town Meeting scheduled for Feb. 11 in Stanton Hall to discuss covering the costs for the Basket Street Water Main Extension project resulted in a unanimous no vote at the recommendation of the Selectboard.

The sole article at the meeting asked if the town would vote to transfer from available funds or borrow a sum of money for the purpose of funding the Bas-

ket Street Water Main Extension Project, to be reimbursed through an Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities grant.

Town Administrator Jennifer Peloquin said 25 people attended the Special Town Meeting, which met the quorum requirement.

“Due to updated information from the state about being able to request reimbursements, the Selectboard recommended a no vote on the article since we don’t need the money now,” she said.

A lightly attended informa-

tional meeting was held on Feb. 4 from 6-7 p.m. to answer questions in advance of the Special Town Meeting.

Before both meetings, Huntington Board of Health Secretary John Bergeron said the water main extension project will hook up residents on Basket Street within a certain distance of a former landfill to town water.

According to Bergeron, the wells in the area of the former landfill are routinely inspected by Huntley & Associates. In April 2025, Perfluorooctanesul-

fonic acid was discovered in one well at a level higher than state EPA recommendations. He said in the past they were not checking for PFOS. “This is a new thing,” he said.

Bergeron said it was only found in one well, but the state is looking at a 500-foot radius to the landfill, which he said would bring in six or eight more homes.

Peloquin said hookups to all the houses along the new line were not allowable as part of the grant and are not being done at this time. The grant was only to

extend the water line to connect to the house with the contaminated well. The reimbursement will be able to be received sooner for the work that was done after the grant contract date of Nov. 12..

“Until we got them on public water, I was delivering bottled water to them on a regular basis.

It’s not done yet, and it’s costing us a lot of money,” Bergeron said, adding, “Even after this gets done, that’s going to have to be monitored again on a regular basis.”

“It’s something that really had to get done,” he said.

43 fire service leaders complete management training program STOW — Dozens of fire service leaders from across Massachusetts graduated on Feb. 10 from the 31st class of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said.

The four-month program for new chief officers and chief officer candidates is delivered jointly by the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy and the Edward J. Collins Jr. Center for Public Management at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Through intensive classroom instruction, challenging out-of-class assignments and student presentations, the course delivers multifaceted training in the managerial aspects of leading a municipal fire department.

“The Chief Fire Officer program is a tremendous opportunity for new chiefs and rising officers,” said Davine, who graduated from the program in 2016.

“The rigorous instruction in such a wide variety of topics will help these graduates provide the leadership that their departments and communities deserve. Completing the program is a major accomplishment, and I want to congratulate all of them on their initiative and dedication to professional development.”

The Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program covers a spectrum of topics considered essential for effective public sector management. It includes human resource management, ethics, executive leadership,

Dog Park Continued from page 6

in their parks. There’s a lot of dog parks that don’t respect the needs of senior citizens with respect to them taking their dogs to a dog park. So, if your dog park has a separate dog park for seniors, there’s a number of different organizations out there that want to help fund that park,” he said.

Deyo said the project is expected to be completed in two to three years, but that will be dependent on grant funding.

As the group’s presentation started, Deyo explained why the park will be named Dillinger’s Dog Park.

He said that a few years ago, a lifelong friend of his and his wife, Peter Stanborn, passed away.

Graduates from the 31st class of the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy’s Chief Fire Officer Management Training Program.

Reminder Publishing submitted photo

governmental and organization structures, information management, customer-focused strategic planning, legal issues, budgets and public finance, community awareness, media relations and labor relations. The curriculum helps fire officers improve their ability to lead and manage personnel, understand employees’ needs and problems, communicate effectively to a variety of audiences, and leverage inter-agency cooperation. The Massachusetts Firefighting Academy, a division of the Department of Fire Services, offers this program tuition-free.

This year’s local graduates include: “Peter had a deep love for dogs, especially his canine companion, Dillinger,” Deyo said.

After he died, he said, they wanted to find a meaningful way to honor Sanborn and Dillinger and began discussions with the town of West Springfield, where Sanborn lived and helped fund a dog park at Mittineague Park.

It was during that process that they realized how much they wanted to actually focus their efforts in Southwick — “the town we love so much.”

“That journey led us to meet a couple of wonderful women who shared a vision of creating a dog park for the town of Southwick. Together, that shared vision became the foundation for Friends of Southwick Dog Park Inc. and ultimately the inspiration for what we now call Dillinger’s Park,” Deyo said.

• Chicopee Fire Department Deputy Chief Matthew Cross • East Longmeadow Fire Department Deputy Chief

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FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026 | PENNYSAVER

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DCR kicks off recruitment efforts for lifeguards, seasonal staff BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation on Feb. 9 kicked off recruitment for lifeguards, pool and waterfront staff, and water safety instructors for the upcoming summer 2026 season. Positions are available at DCR’s 32 guarded beaches, 24 swimming pools and two wading pools across the state, and offer competitive hourly wages ranging from $22 to $27, as well as bonuses of up to $1,000 for qualified applicants who sign on early and work the entire season.

“There’s no better place to be this summer than enjoying Massachusetts’ beaches and pools,” said Gov. Maura Healey. “These iconic places remain open and enjoyable because of the dedicated, hardworking and well-trained seasonal staff who keep our waterfronts safe and accessible for all to enjoy.”

“Long before I was lieutenant governor or mayor, I spent my summers working as a lifeguard,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. “It was an incredibly rewarding experience, and I encourage any-

one who is a strong swimmer, enjoys being outdoors, and wants to make some extra money this summer while serving their community to consider applying to be a DCR lifeguard.”

An early sign-on bonus of $500 is available to candidates who submit a complete hiring packet with all supporting documentation within three weeks of receiving an offer, or by April 30, depending on which is sooner. Additional retention bonuses will be available to staff who work through the pool or waterfront season.

To apply for a lifeguard position, candidates must be at least 16 years old by their date of hire, complete lifeguard training and be certified in first aid and CPR. Free lifeguard training classes are offered by DCR through May for candidates who commit to working before the start of the summer season. For more information on the available trainings, visit DCR’s lifeguard webpage or contact Eric Hammermeister-Kahn, Director of Pool and Waterfront Safety Training, at Eric.Hammer-

meister-Kahn@mass.gov. As first responders, lifeguards play a vital role in ensuring the safety of visitors to state-managed beaches and pools.

DCR will open its 81 designated swimming areas across Massachusetts on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend (May 23-25), and the season will run through Sunday, Aug. 30. Lifeguard services will begin at several early start beaches throughout the parks system on May 23 and continue with weekend coverage until mid-June, when coverage will be provided seven days a week and expand to additional waterfronts. All DCR pools open in June and are equipped with accessible chair lifts and/or ramps to allow visitors of all abilities to enter the water. Beach mats and floating wheelchairs are also available at many DCR beaches.

“As our summers continue to heat up, people look to our beaches and pools as places to relax, cool off, and spend time together. Keeping these spaces clean, safe and welcoming takes dedicated staff who care about

their communities,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “These positions are a great opportunity to work outdoors and enjoy the best parts of summer.”

“Our beaches and pools are some of the most beloved spots in Massachusetts, bringing families and friends of all ages and abilities together throughout the summer,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “Working at a DCR waterfront or pool is a chance to spend your summer outdoors, build valuable skills and be part of a great team that keeps our communities safe while helping create lasting memories.”

Most of DCR’s pool and waterfront positions are seasonal, with a 40-hour workweek, including weekends and holidays. Limited part-time lifeguard and instructor positions (up to 20 hours per week) may also be available.

To learn more about available pool and waterfront positions or to apply for open positions, visit DCR’s lifeguard webpage.

DCR is collaborating with partner state agencies, state and

local elected officials, municipalities, educational institutions, job fairs and expos to spread the word about this opportunity for good-paying summer employment.

As part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s commitment to water safety for all visitors to the state’s beaches and pools, DCR in recent years expanded its efforts to recruit bilingual lifeguards and waterfront safety staff. The agency will soon be running multilingual recruitment advertising on all MBTA trains, in MBTA stations, on electronic messaging boards on roads across the state and in multilingual media outlets.

DCR is also hiring for other seasonal positions for Memorial Day through Labor Day, including rangers, park interpreters, supervisors, forestry assistants, building and ground maintenance and workers, campground and park operations staff and office assistants. Some positions will run from April through October.

For more information, interested applicants should visit DCR’s seasonal recruitment webpage.

Lottery

August? So next fiscal year?” Rodrigues said.

“Summer,” Goldberg replied.

Beyond statutory changes, Goldberg’s testimony focused on rising operational expenses.

“Our hard costs have increased dramatically,” she said, citing expenses ranging from thermal paper and shipping to

phone contracts and IT upgrades.

“This leaves little room to put actual product on the shelves.”

While the governor recommended $122 million for Lottery operations, Goldberg asked lawmakers to approve $124 million.

“Without these funds, our team will need to cut the release of six to eight new instant tickets, resulting in a potential loss of $35 to $50 million in net profit in year one alone,” she said.

Goldberg also pressed for an

increase in the Lottery’s advertising budget from $7 million to $10 million, a perennial topic at budget hearings.

“An increase to $10 million is desperately needed. We have one of the lowest advertising budgets in the nation,” she said. With “ever increasing competition and advertising costs, these funds are critical to keeping pace.”

“With your support, we have the opportunity to ensure a profitable Lottery for generations to

come,” Goldberg said, “which translates to important local aid.”

The revenue the Lottery generates is used to provide unrestricted local aid to all 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts, going toward public safety, road improvements, schools, senior services and other local costs.

Sam Drysdale is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts.

Reach her at sdrysdale@statehousenews.com.

Continued from page 5

inally expected to launch in late 2025, and its revenue will help fund early childhood education grants.

“Are we looking at July or

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Bombyx Brass Collective presents pre-spring concert

By Trent Levakis

tlevakis@thereminder.com

NORTHAMPTON — The Bombyx Brass Collective is gearing up for its next show, a pre-spring concert called “Musical Flurries,” on Sunday, March 1 at 3 p.m. at the Bombyx Center in Florence.

The 35-member, semi-professional brass ensemble led by Music Director Juli Sansoucy was founded in January 2022 and plays a mix of musical genres from classical to jazz to pop.

Members include active and retired music teachers, working professional musicians and talented amateur musicians.

The pre-spring “Musical Flurries” show is just one of the group’s regularly scheduled programs. They aim to put on three per year at a minimum.

“Basically, it’s kind of a potpourri of different styles of music, different types of music, basically all 20th-century music, but definitely different genres,” said Ira Brezinsky, an organizer and member of the collective.

A donation of $25 is suggested for the concert, but admission to all Bombyx Brass performances is free of charge, and donations are always accepted. To learn more about this upcoming event, as well as all the other programming at the Bombyx Center, visit www.bombyx.live.

The diverse, family-friendly program features two original works for brass choir: the iconic “Symphony for Brass and Percussion” by Alfred Reed and “Overture in F Minor” by Jean Sibelius. The concert will also include well-known music from John Williams and Hans Zimmer, and standards from the rock group Chicago.

Brezinsky said the show’s first section of performances is

very well known among brass players and brass music fans.

“It will be an exciting piece.

The middle movement is really beautiful. The first and the third movements are just super exciting, a lot of percussion. Just big, big sound,” said Brezinsky. “‘The Overture in F Minor’ is also an original piece for brass, which is kind of cool because oftentimes, we’re playing transcriptions and arrangements for brass that are normally played on different instruments. It’s also something that really demonstrates really solid, nice brass writing and playing.”

Brezinsky added that the process of transcription pieces of music to fit the brass collective’s form can be challenging, but often leads to interesting adaptations of beloved work for audiences.

“Trying to get the right kind of sound, sometimes just the technique is different. It can be challenging, but it’s also interesting. Sometimes, if we’re playing something that’s super well known, like the Chicago tunes — those were obviously originally written and played for a rock band with horns, but also a vocalist and that sort of thing. So, the arrangements we’re playing have to be switched up to accommodate our instrumentation. It’s just a different take, oftentimes, on music that people are familiar with and hearing it a different way,” explained Brezinsky.

Brezinsky said the show’s second half is the lighter side.

Performances will feature wellknown movie themes and more Brass Collective adapted performances of music from the rock band, Chicago, with percussion accompaniment.

“I suppose the reason for making it such a diverse program is because we’re doing it on a Sunday afternoon. Hopeful-

The Bombyx Brass Collective.

Reminder Publishing file photo

ly making it really attractive for families and young kids who will be interested in different types of music and keep their attention,” added Brezinsky.

Brezinsky said he hopes to see another great turnout for the Brass Collective’s March 1 “Musical Flurries” show, and expressed gratitude for the Bombyx Center for their partnership in helping them bring these performances to the community.

“We love to play for an audience. More often than not, the audience we get at the Bombyx Center is pretty good. A couple of hundred people might typically show up for one of our shows and having a pretty full house to play for is very gratifying. Most of our concerts that we do, we don’t get paid for. Whatever we collect at the door or in advance in terms of donations, [it] all just goes back

into the pot to purchase music or equipment, advertising, that sort of thing,” said Brezinsky. “We haven’t been around all that long, but we’ve developed a little bit of a following. We always see new faces, but we also see a lot of faces returning time after time, people that just appreciate and enjoy the kind of music and the kind of sound that we have.”

Other Bombyx Brass Collective happenings The Bombyx Brass Collective will also feature as performers on a parade float during this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Holyoke. About eight to 10 members will perform class horn band music on one of the floats throughout the parade route.

Aside from the show and parade, Brezinsky also emphasized the group’s established special program, where they visit public

schools throughout the region to share their talents and enthusiasm for music with students of all ages. The one-day program provides guidance to students during the school day and gives public performances in those communities the same evening.

Since 2023, the collective has visited music students in Holyoke, Monson, South Hadley, Sturbridge, Westfield and Wilbraham. Coming up on April 2, the Bombyx Brass Collective will partner with Enfield Public Schools to visit with middle and high school music students during the day before putting on a community show that evening.

For more information and to inquire about having the Bombyx Brass Collective come to your community, school or organization, email bombyxbrass@gmail.com.

Young@Heart, Hope Center present “Hope And Glory” SPRINGFIELD — On Saturday, Feb. 28 at 4 p.m. Young@Heart and Hope Center for the Arts are proud to present “Hope and Glory,” a show that will combine the Hope for the future as represented by the Hope Center’s students, faculty and staff at the newly renovated center at 150 Bridge St. in Springfield. The Glory represents the life and times of the recently deceased Evelyn Harris, who was a member of Young@ Heart for the last 2.5 years of her life and who had such a magnificent impact in our region, nation and the world.

Special guests for the show will include: Members of Sweet Honey in the Rock, an all-female, African American a cappella ensemble that started in 1973. They are a

EMAIL YOUR NEWS TO News@TheReminder.com

three-time Grammy Award-nominated troupe who express their history as black women through song, dance, and sign language.

Evelyn Harris was a member of the group from 1974-1992.

Yasmeen Betty Williams is an American gospel singer and former member of the Sweet Honey in the Rock from 1976 to 1986. Williams grew up during

the gospel explosion in Washington, D.C. As a youth, she received her training in gospel music from her cousin, Dr. Shirley AblesStarks of the Joy Gospel Singers and her aunt, Vara Simpson, the founder of two gospel groups – The Service Gospel Singers and The Spiritualettes, who were often featured on the Metro D.C. WOOK Radio Station for early

Sunday Morning worship. After meeting in Sweet Honey in the 70’s, Yasmeen remained Evelyn’s most cherished friend for the remainder of her life.

Kayla Staley is the director of vocal ensemble at the Hope Center’s after school. Kayla is a bright fireball of energy based in Springfield Massachusetts.

A thriving freelance soul vocal artist, actress, dancer, social activist, and educator. Staley is the director of vocal ensemble at the Hope Center after school program.

Buy tickets at the Hope Center website hopecenterforthearts. org/events/youngatheart/

The Westfield Athenaeum invites you to...

The 8th Annual

FOOD & SPIRITS Saturday 2/21/26

80 Jarvis Avenue Holyoke, MA DonovansPub.com

Sunday 2/22/26

WINE TASTING TICKETS FEBRUARY 27, 2026

$50

Celebrate Our Athenaeum: The Next Chapter

6:00 - 8:30 PM

Celebrate the reopening of our Great Hall with an evening of wine, hors d’oeuvres, chocolate, music, our Silent Art Auction and more!

Interested in being a Sponsor? Let us know at 413-568-7833 x100 or email tracine@westath.org

PURCHASE ONLINE: WESTATH.ORG, OR IN PERSON AT THE CIRCULATION DESK.

Jeff Blaney 6-9 Jimmy McArdle and Jerry Murphy 2-5 Saturday, February 28 – Baird Souls

“Our Family Cooks For Your Family”

VILLAGE PIZZERIA R E S T A U R A N T

College Highway, Rt. 10 & 202, Southwick, MA DEBIT

413-569-3160 • 413-569-3403

PIZZA, GRINDERS & MORE SINCE 1982 ~ FEBRUARY Grinder of the Month ~

8” Cheeseburg Grinder with Lettuce & Tomato

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SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLE “NBA PLAY”

FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026 | PENNYSAVER

| 10 |

THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS

Amirah Brown works to hang onto the ball.

Rylee Sandidge tosses in a basket.

Tech's Raun Phelon tries to keep the ball in play.

WESTFIELD TECH VS ST. MARY’S

BASKETBALL

The St. Mary’s girls basketball team defeated Westfield Technical Academy 45-27 on Feb. 3 at Westfield Intermediate School.

REMINDER SPORTS PHOTOS TAKEN BY MARC ST. ONGE

Amirah Brown focuses on getting a basket.

Tech's Lia O'Brien briigs the ball down the court.

WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS | THEREMINDER.COM

| 11 |

PENNYSAVER | FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026

Raun Phelon puts up a shot with Skylar Emmelmann looking on.

Lia O'Brien drives around Angelina Pilecki.

Tech's Isabella Santos targets the basket while blocking the Saints.

Keira Jacquier puts up a basket while guarded by Audrey Amaral.

Southampton Road (Route 10/202), Servistar Industrial Way, and Barnes Airport Drive.

FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026 | PENNYSAVER

Chief Engineer, via e-mail to MassDOTProjectManagement@dot.state.ma.us or via US Mail to Suite 7550, 10 Park| 12 Plaza, | Boston, MA 02116, Attention: Project Management, Project File No. 612600. Statements and exhibits intended for inclusion in the public hearing transcript must be emailed or postmarked no later than ten (10) business days (14 calendar days) after the hearing is hosted on the MassDOT website listed below.

classifieds Project File No. 612600

THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS

TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD CALL A Design Public Hearing will be held to present 413-213-6178 • CLASSIFIED DEADLINE IS THURSDAY AT NOON

community

the design for the proposed project in Westfield, MA.

WHERE: Westfield City Hall City Council ChambersSecond Floor 59 Court Street Westfield, MA 01085

WHEN: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 @ 7:00pm

PURPOSE: The purpose of this hearing is to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed project. All views and comments submitted in response to the hearing will be reviewed and considered to the maximum extent possible.

PROPOSAL: The proposed project consists of intersection improvements at Southampton Road (Route 10/202), Servistar Industrial Way, and Barnes Airport Drive. The intersection is proposed to be reconstructed as a roundabout.

Bicyclists and pedestrians will be accommodated with an 8-foot wide shared-use path around the outside of the roundabout in accordance with applicable design guides.

LEGAL NOTICES THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION – HIGHWAY DIVISION NOTICE OF A DESIGN PUBLIC HEARING Project Description: Westfield – Intersection Improvements at Southampton Road (Route 10/202), Servistar Industrial Way, and Barnes Airport Drive.

Project File No. 612600 A Design Public Hearing will be held to present the design for the proposed project in Westfield, MA. WHERE: Westfield City Hall City Council ChambersSecond Floor 59 Court Street Westfield, MA 01085 WHEN: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 @ 7:00pm PURPOSE: The purpose of this hearing is to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed project. All views and comments submitted in response to the hearing will be reviewed and considered to the maximum extent possible.

PROPOSAL: The proposed project consists of intersection improvements at Southampton Road (Route 10/202), Servistar Industrial Way, and Barnes Airport Drive. The intersection is proposed to be reconstructed as a roundabout.

Bicyclists and pedestrians will be accommodated with an 8-foot wide shared-use path around the outside of the roundabout in accordance with applicable design guides.

A secure right-of-way is necessary for this project. Acquisitions in fee and permanent or temporary easements may be required. The State is responsible for acquiring all needed rights in private or public lands. MassDOT’s policy concerning land acquisitions will be presented in the hearing.

A secure right-of-way is necessary for this project. Acquisitions in fee and permanent or temporary easements may be required. The State is responsible for acquiring all needed rights in private or public lands. MassDOT’s policy concerning land acquisitions will be presented in the hearing.

Project inquiries, written statements and other exhibits regarding the proposed undertaking may be submitted to Carrie E. Lavallee, P.E., Chief Engineer, via e-mail to MassDOTProjectManagement@dot.state.ma.us or via US Mail to Suite 7550, 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, Attention: Project Management, Project File No. 612600. Statements and exhibits intended for inclusion in the public hearing transcript must be emailed or postmarked no later than ten (10) business days (14 calendar days) after the hearing is hosted on the MassDOT website listed below.

This hearing is accessible to people with disabilities. MassDOT provides reasonable accommodations and/or language assistance free of charge upon request (e.g interpreters in American Sign Language and languages other than English, live captioning, videos, assistive listening devices and alternate material formats), as available. For accommodation or language assistance, please contact MassDOT’s Chief Diversity and Civil Rights Officer by phone (857368-8580), TTD/TTY at (857) 266-0603, fax (857) 368-0602 or by email (MassDOT.CivilRights@dot.state.ma.us). Requests should be made as soon as possible and prior to the hearing, and for more difficult to arrange services including sign-language, CART or language translation or interpretation, requests should be made at least ten business days before the hearing.

In case of inclement weather, a cancellation announcement will be posted on the internet at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/highwaydivision/events.

JONATHAN GULLIVER HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATOR CARRIE E. LAVALLEE, P.E. CHIEF ENGINEER (February 12, February 19)

The Best Way Home

JONATHAN GULLIVER HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATOR CARRIE E. LAVALLEE, P.E. CHIEF ENGINEER (February 12, February 19)

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Transportation Coordinator For more information including complete job description, qualifications, salary range, application and closing dates go to www.cityofwestfield.org EOE Town of Tolland Department of Public Works Employment Opportunity Equipment Operator/Laborer The Town of Tolland is accepting applications for the full-time position of DPW Equipment Operator/Laborer.

BUSINESS PROPERTY

GARAGE DOORS

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

C.H.I. Mahogany Woodgrain Exterior Aluminum Garage Door

Email the DPW for a full job description at dpw@tolland-ma.gov or, call the DPW at (413) 258-4531

ELECTRICIAN

EMAIL YOUR NEWS TO

News@TheReminder.com

9' Wide by 8' Tall. Like New Condition/Insulated. Includes Linear Opener w/2 remotes.

Track & rails included. Must be picked up. $750 or Best Offer. Call 413-770-0956.

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 Offering Roof Raking/Snow Removal!

Gutter Cleaning $85 any home; Power washing starts at $99; Call Bob 413-8966442. FULLY INSURED www.windowcleanup.com

HANDYMAN Four Seasons Handyman Services 40-years experience in carpentry. Recently retired but want to stay busy helping you with any job you are afraid to ask help for.

Todd 413-433-5319

HEALTH & MEDICAL Attention patients with Diabetes. Manage your Diabetes better. Get your insurance covered GCM today. Call US MED NOW: 855-680-2173

~ Introducing the Park Square Realty FirstKey Program ~

Our goal is to help 100 First Time Buyers purchase a home in the next 12 months utilizing Mass Housing Down Payment Assistance.

Qualified First Time Buyers can get $25,000 to go towards their down payment and their closing costs. Please contact one of our offices for details.

Carms Restaurant LLC, to 241 US-20 LLC, 241 Route 20 Joan E. Deloy-Stalcup and Joan E. Deloy to Jerald Reinford, 73 Ingell Road

CITY OF WESTFIELD has the following employment opportunities available:

Call: 413-530-4820

Call Jason, Master Electrician 413-568-6293

Diane E. Vinesett to Amy B. Royal, 29 Plantation Drive Unit 29 JONATHAN GULLIVER John T. O’Donnell to Mark J. Rolland and Corinne E. Rolland, 174 Beekman Drive HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATOR Kyle C. Devlin to Michael G. Robie Jr., 198 Beekman Drive CARRIE E. LAVALLEE, P.E. Mark E. O’Malley to Silver CHIEF WalnutENGINEER LLC, 667-669 South West St. Mark E. O’Malley Silver Walnut (Februaryto12, February 19)LLC, 675-677 South West St. Phyllis Birch to Evgheni Emciuc, 94 Witheridge St. Waystar 800 Silver LLC, to OM Real Estate Holdings LLC, 800 Silver St

HELP WANTED

Principal Account Clerk- Collectors

CASH FOR JUNK AND REPAIRABLE CARS Call/Text 413-219-6839

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 !

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Assistant Civil Engineer

AFFORDABLE FIREWOOD

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Insurance may cover the cost. CALL The Detox and Treatment Helpline at (800)478-0435

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AUTO SERVICES

Fully experienced for all your electrical needs, in your home or business. No job too small or too big. Electrical service upgrades, new construction or additions, emergency generators; new installation and maintenance service. Fully insured/licensed.

In case of inclement weather, a cancellation announcement will be posted on the internet at hAGAWAM ttps://www.mass.gov/orgs/highwaydAnthony i v i s i o n /Fazio e v e nand t s . Jane Fazio to Amjad Real Estate LLC, 554 Franklin St. Extn.

CHESTER

tag sales

In case of inclement weather, a cancellation announcement will be posted on the internet at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/highwaydivision/events.

FLOREK'S ELECTRICAL SERVICE

Project inquiries, written statements and other exhibits regarding the proposed undertaking may be submitted to Carrie E. Lavallee, P.E., Chief Engineer, via e-mail to MassDOTProjectManagement@dot.state.ma.us or via US Mail to Suite 7550, 10 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, Attention: Project Management, Project File No. 612600. Statements and exhibits intended for inclusion in the public hearing transcript must be emailed or postmarked no later than ten (10) business days (14 calendar days) after the hearing is hosted on the MassDOT website listed below.

This hearing is accessible to people with disabilities. MassDOT provides reasonable accommodations and/or language assistance free of charge upon request (e.g interpreters in American Sign Language and languages other than English, live captioning, videos, assistive listening devices and alternate material formats), as available. For accommodation or language assistance, please contact MassDOT’s Chief Diversity and Civil Rights Officer by phone (857368-8580), TTD/TTY at (857) 266-0603, fax (857) 368-0602 or by email (MassDOT.CivilRights@dot.state.ma.us). Requests should be made as soon as possible and prior to the hearing, and for more difficult to arrange services including sign-language, CART or language translation or interpretation, requests should be made at least ten business days before the hearing.

This hearing is accessible to people with disabilities. MassDOT provides reasonable accommodations and/or language assistance free of charge upon request (e.g interpreters in American Sign Language and languages other than English, live captioning, videos, assistive listening devices and alternate material formats), as available. For accommodation or language assistance, please contact MassDOT’s Chief Diversity and Civil Rights Officer by phone (857368-8580), TTD/TTY at (857) 266-0603, fax (857) 368-0602 or by email (MassDOT.CivilRights@dot.state.ma.us). Requests should be made as soon as possible and prior to the hearing, and for more difficult to arrange services including sign-language, CART or language translation or interpretation, requests should be made at least ten business days before the hearing.

$470,000 $230,000 $299,000 $235,000 $300,000 $300,000 $210,000 $850,000

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DALE'S STRUCTURAL Termite damage, sagging floors, rotted beams, basement columns, foundation repairs, homes, garages, barns. Small jobs welcome.

413-667-3149

HOME MAINTENANCE JOSEPH'S HANDYMAN COMPANY Carpentry, remodeling, kitchen, baths, basements, drywall, tile, floors, restoration services, doors, windows, decks, stairs, interior/exterior painting, plumbing. Small jobs ok. Projects designed to fit your needs, all types of professional work done since 1985.

Call Joe (413)364-7038

LANDSCAPING Trimming Edge Lawncare Will Beat Quoted price Lawn mowing, Spring and Fall Cleanup, Brush Removal, And More...

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The Best Way Home WESTFIELD: 413.568.9226 W. SPRINGFIELD: 413.737.3600

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SPRINGFIELD

2180 Main Street LLC, to Razzak Building LLC, 2180-2184 Main St. Alizaya Daysha Clark to Post Investment LLC, 47 Brookline Ave. Ana L. Morrissey to John Mendenhall Jr.,108 Brunswick St. Desmond Wayne Henry Jr., to Joseph Pasay and Selena L. Pasay, 43 Thorndyke St. Gemini Town Homes LLC, to Leon A. Valderrama Rico and Alix V. Perez Rubio, 54 Central St. Unit 506 Grahams Construction Inc., to Carlos A. Otero and Catherine Robles, 99 Crystal Brook Drive Heidi A. Kitchen to Stephen E. Marinetto, 32 Lindsay Road John J. Ferriter, administrator, and Frederick Blair, estate, to Tok Chang, 67 Carlisle St. Kenneth J. Dube to Morgan Sibley, 138 Warrenton St.

$400,000 WEST SPRINGFIELD $340,000 Brendan Robert Cawley to Kristen Victoria Muszynski and Warren W. Hayden, 148 Craiwell Ave. Mazin Al Nuaimi, Rasha Al Mahdawi and Masin Al Nuaimi to Mazin Al Nuaimi, 64-66 Elmdale St. GRANVILLE John S. Demyon Sr., and Elizabeth A. Demyon to Erin Cohen and Nicholas Brackett, 640 Main Road $420,000 Michael P. Sullivan to Tiffany Melendez-Campos, 74-76 Maple Terrace Steven J. Duga and Michelle Duga to Michael A, Grillo and Mia M. Grillo, 416 Hillcrest Ave. HOLYOKE Vaycheslav Foksha to Leyla Mamedova, 22-24 Allen St. Alfred Shattelroe, receiver, Holyoke City and Frances L. Blanchard, estate, to Alfred Shattelroe, 41 Lynwood Ave. $286,000 Alfred Shattelroe to Diamond Matos, 41 Lynwood Ave. $286,000 WESTFIELD Brian M. Foy and Karen J. Wright to Matthew Pape and Gabriela Pape, 91 Knollwood Circle $350,000 Danielle M. Batchelder to Mckenzie Patterson and Kiana Patterson, 505 Loomis St. Oday Westfield LLC, to Acre Hill LLC, 182-184 Southampton Road SOUTHAMPTON Pah Properties LLC, to Alexander N. Deming, 48 Pleasant St. Andrea L. Looney to Ryan W. Hall and Integra Hall, 117 Russellville Road $356,000 Paul J. Bailey and Deborah J. Stober to Alexsandr Bloom and Yoeimilis Roman, 0 Feeding Hills Road Paul T, Liptak III, to Jacs Properties LLC, O Fairfield Ave. SOUTHWICK 109 North Lake Avenue LLC, to Diana Gentile, 109 North Lake Ave. $530,000 Round Two LLC, to Viktorian Estate LLC, 88 Woodmont St. Siarhei Ryhal to Mike Krasnov, 67 Tannery Road $135,000 Viktoria A. Brennan and Viktoria A. Dubovoy to Ivan Balan, 7 Shepard St.

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HATFIELD

Roxanne: 413.213.6178

HADLEY

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

Shannon: 413.735.1660

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PAINTING & WALLPAPERING

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For service or inspection today! 833-860-0657 Have zip code ready!

TO PLACE YOUR LEGAL AD CALL:

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REMINDER PUBLISHING & THE WESTFIELD NEWS! AFFORDABLE RATES AND PERSONAL SERVICE!

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PENNYSAVER | FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026

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All fishing equipment! Cash paid. Will travel to you! Call Mike the Fishing Guy 413313-5013 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

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

181 ROOT ROAD • WESTFIELD, MA • 413.562.4181

CARRIERS WANTED

EAST LONGMEADOW - HOOK DELIVERY THURSDAY

144 Papers: St. Joseph Dr., Wisteria Ln., Tracey Ln., Pembroke Terr., Abbey Ln., Rockingham Cir., Dartmouth Ln., Partial - Prospect St., Chestnut St., Somers Rd. 129 Papers: Gerrard Ave., Holy Cross Cir., Kingston Ave., Lombard Ave., Mereline Ave., Nelson St., Roderick Ave., Partial- N. Main St. 45 Papers: Partial-Allen Street 166 Papers: Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Villanova St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only)

LONGMEADOW - HOOK DELIVERY THURSDAY

83 Papers: Williamsburg Dr., Eunice Dr., Tabor Crossing, Morgan Ridge, Burns Meadow, Churchill Dr., Partial - Converse St. 84 Papers: Chandler Ave., Partial - Longmeadow St. 109 Papers: Birnie Rd., Brookside Dr., Crescent Rd., Longview Dr., Fairhill Dr., Partial - Longmeadow St. 54 Papers: Bliss Rd. 87 Papers: Andover Rd., Ashford Rd., Cranwell Ln., Deerfield Ave., Willow Cir., Williston Dr., Willow Brook Rd., Partial - Frank Smith Rd. 157 Papers: Albemarle Rd., Arcadia St., Barclay St., Chiswick St., Fairway Dr., Franklin Rd., Lincoln Pk. & Rd., Whitmun Rd., Woodmont Rd., Hillside Ter. 96 Papers: Brookwood Dr., Kenmore Dr., Knollwood Dr., Partial - Shaker Rd. 99 Papers: Barbara Ln., Quinnehtuk Rd., Village Dr., Pioneer Dr., Partial - Maple Rd., Frank Smith Rd., Wolf Swamp Rd. 100 Papers: Norway St., Nevins Ave., Partial - Maple Rd.

WILBRAHAM - HOOK DELIVERY THURSDAY

35 Papers: Arbor Ln., Greenwood Rd., Oak Ridge Dr., Old Orchard Rd., Russell Rd. 61 Papers: Gary Dr., Pidgeon Dr., Raymond Dr., Ruth Dr., Sawmill Dr. 228 Papers: Echo Hill Rd., Highmoor Dr., Meeting House Ln., Rice Dr., Ridge Rd., Highridge Rd., Hitching Post Ln., Peak Rd., Webster Ln., Partial - Mountain Rd., Monson Rd., Tinkham Rd., Main St.

Call Holly @ 413.788.1316

WE AR E OF FE RIN G A BO NU S INC EN TIV E TO NE W CA RR IER S AF TE R CO MP LET ING 4 WE EKS!

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

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/

FEBRUARY 19 - 25 , 2026 | PENNYSAVER

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