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Westfield mayor proposes $180.2M budget

By Amy Porter

aporter@thereminder.com

EDITION WESTFIELD

Prospect of more off-campus housing creates stir A proposal heard by the Planning Board on May 5 for a special permit to divide 5 Clark St. into two residential lots caused a stir amongst residents.

Page 3

SOUTHWICK

Westfield mayor proposes $180.2M budget with 4% tax increase.

Photo credit: Westfield Community TV

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SPRINGFIELD, MA PERMIT NO. 142

See BUDGET on page 3

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ECRWSS

School Department budget faced a $1.9 million increase in the cost of special education, a $775,000 increase in transportation costs, and a $2 million increase in personnel costs.

He said initiatives like the Student Opportunity Act have directed funding towards specific student populations, which, while important, have limited the broader impact of general education funding. Circuit breaker funding for out-of-district special education is intended to cover 75% of eligible costs, but it is currently funded at only 61%, leaving the city responsible for the remainder. Student transportation is another mandated expense, which is significantly impacted by rising fuel and utility costs.

“If we were to look at those budgets alone, they would con-

Mandatory water restrictions for the town were announced on May 1.

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la projected out to 2026, Westfield has been underfunded by approximately $14 million this year, a gap further exacerbated by the state’s House of Representatives reducing the funding in its most recent vote. However, he acknowledged that on the same day, the Senate passed its updated budget that increased unrestricted government aid to the city by $206,000.

“These challenges are not unique to Westfield. Rather, they reflect a broader trend in the commonwealth’s physical framework. While the state budget continues to make targeted investments in specific areas, overall municipal aid does not keep pace with the rising cost of delivering local services,” McCabe said.

State obligations related to education are another area of concern that he addressed in his presentation. He said this year’s

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Town announces water use restrictions

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SPRINGFIELD, MA PERMIT NO. 142

WESTFIELD — Mayor Michael McCabe gave a short narrative presentation to the City Council on the fiscal year 2027 city budget of approximately $180,2 million that is driven largely by state-mandated costs and an increase in health care premiums.

The budget is an increase of $7.3 million, or 4%, over the FY26 budget.

After taking a few questions, the budget was referred to the Finance Subcommittee, chaired

by Councilor Daniel Knapik, with Councilors Brent Bean II and Cindy Harris, for a line-byline review.

McCabe began by thanking councilors for their work behind the scenes in trying to understand and collaborate with him on the budget. He singled out Knapik, who he said has been working with him since January to try to figure out the best method to move forward.

He said the 2027 budget maintains level services to the community while addressing a series of significant and compounding financial problems due to longstanding structural issues and recent cost pressures.

“To understand the current position, it is important to consider the limitations of Proposition 2 1/2 along with ongoing gaps in state funding in key areas of our general budget,” he said, naming Chapter 70 education aid, school transportation and Chapter 90 capital transportation funding. He said personnel costs have increased modestly across all sectors, but the continued escalation of health care costs presents a substantial and unpredictable burden.

McCabe said since the adop-

tion of Proposition 2 1/2, the city of Westfield has consistently chosen not to tax to the full allowable limit, with the intent of remaining mindful of the burden on residents. “While this approach provided short-term relief, it has contributed over time to a structural imbalance in funding city services. Addressing that imbalance will require the continued use of the excess levy capacity for the second consecutive year,” he said. Last year, the mayor increased taxes by 6%, based on the same rationale.

To address the city’s structural budget challenges, McCabe said that the FY27 budget proposal includes a 4% increase in the levy, along with the use of $1.25 million in debt service capacity and $2 million of free cash. “The 4% increase represents an estimated $280 impact to the average taxpayer, while also reducing excess levy capacity by $1.5 million. This is an important step toward improving long-term fiscal stability,” he said.

While contending that the use of free cash is not recommended for ongoing operations, he said its limited use in the budget helps offset approximately $140 in taxes in the short term, which would have to be paid by the residential consumer. This method would allow the city to maintain level services while addressing immediate financial pressures.

McCabe said Westfield continues to face challenges related to the underfunding of unrestricted government aid, which he called a critical revenue source that supports all aspects of municipal operations and state mandates that are either partially funded or not funded at all.

According to McCabe, based on the state’s 2002 unrestricted government aid funding formu-

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STRM: Gonzalez reacts to Baystate’s merger with Mercy

By Ryan Feyre

rfeyre@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Health’s recent acquisition of Mercy Medical Center, set to become official on Nov. 1, is making waves throughout the region as people scramble to prepare for what this will mean for health care in Western Massachusetts.

On the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me,” state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez sat down with hosts Dennis Hackett and Tyler Garnet to discuss what is on the horizon in light of this announcement and how he plans to gather more information about the merger.

As of press time, Gonzalez met with Baystate Health President and CEO Peter Banko to gain more clarity about the impact the merger may have and how the decision may affect personnel, services and the role Mercy has in the region. He shared that he’s also privately met with the speaker of the state’s House of Representatives and is working with the Department of Public Health and personnel at Baystate to determine the best path forward following the announcement.

“We’ve been trying to make

sure that we are in tune to what are the needs of that potential merger, but also more importantly, upon getting the notification, what changes we may potentially see that can adversely affect the services of the personnel at Mercy,” Gonzalez said.

The Springfield Democrat foresees a bevy of potential health impacts hitting the area when this merger officially takes shape. He mentioned the birthing center closing at Mercy and the overflow of people in the region’s hospitals as potential concerns for people who need hospital services in a prompt manner.

“Sometimes we may have seen in the past a bulging of people going to emergency rooms across our hospital systems, and that may have a negative impact,” Gonzalez said. “And that’s a five-minute to 20-minute delay on providing medical attention to somebody in an emergency situation, [which] could, you know, cost lives.”

On the topic of whether he thinks the merger will prevent Mercy from shutting down, a concern delegates and residents have had in the past, Gonzalez said that “mergers are like marriages,” and “many marriages

end up in divorce and changes need to happen.”

“That’s why it’s important that we get answers directly on what they foresee are potential changes or challenges, and how can the state be impactful and find a system through this process,” Gonzalez said.

He noted that Baystate and Mercy are economic engines for the region “in so many ways,” whether it be through the birth centers or local pharmacy at Mercy. In that same breath, Gonzalez said the merger carries some potential drawbacks such as a loss of jobs, a problem he said will hopefully be addressed in future discussions with hospital leadership.

“We hope that whatever bargaining rights [doctors and nurses] have at Mercy can continue to remain,” Gonzalez said.

He shared that his job as a state representative is to serve the people, and although some are excited about the merger, he wants to make sure it doesn’t negatively impact residents in our region.

“I believe that government is for the people, by the people,” Gonzalez said. “Now is the prime time to be echoing your sentiments as to what you feel is a need. And if we can attach a cost

State Rep. Carlos Gonzalez joined the latest episode of “So That Reminds Me.” Reminder Publishing submitted photo

to it that can be obtained, then we need to work on those efforts.”

Readers can listen to the full podcast episode with Gonzalez

by visiting thereminder.com/ our-podcast or searching “So That Reminds Me” on your favorite podcasting platform.

Fenton stages bid for District 8 seat on Governor’s Council

By Sarah Heinonen

sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield City Councilor Michael Fenton has announced that he will run against incumbent Tara Jacobs to represent Western Massachusetts on the Governor’s Council, an influential body that reviews judicial appointments and advocates for the state’s judicial infrastructure needs.

The Governor’s Council is a body of eight members, presided over by the lieutenant governor.

The council meets once a week to

consent on the governor’s choice of judges, clerk magistrates and members of the Parole, Appellate Tax, Industrial Accident and Industrial Accident Reviewing boards, as well as public administrators, notaries and justices of the peace. Governor’s Council members also advise the governor on major outlays from the state treasury, such as building courthouses, and on pardons and commutations.

“The Governor’s Council is really a check on the governor,” Fenton said. “It’s the perfect complement of my skill set. This

position really needs someone who has legal training to scrutinize judicial appointments.”

Fenton has been an attorney for 17 years, most recently with Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin. He is also a professor at Western New England University School of Law. He added that his 14 years spent on the City Council have provided him with the experience to thoroughly vet decisions based on facts and information.

For Fenton, reviewing the governor’s selection of judges is among the most consequential decisions. The process of being

named a judge is “rigorous and invasive,” he said. “It is deemed by many to be the highest accomplishment of an attorney.”

He said candidates must demonstrate that they have the “highest ethical standards, the appropriate demeanor” and the requisite background.

“Life-changing moments happen in these courtrooms,” Fenton said.

Because the districts are population-based, District 8 is the largest geographical district, consisting of 102 cities and towns west of Palmer. Fenton said the Governor’s Council provides “a chance to elevate Western Massachusetts people to more positions.” Fenton said no current members of the state Supreme Judicial Court, the Appellate Tax Board or the Parole Board hail from Western Massachusetts.

“The council should be doing more than just reacting,” Fenton said. “They should be recruiting members of the bar, so vacancies don’t occur, or if they do, they are as short as possible.”

As a member of the Governor’s Council, Fenton said, “Investing in our judicial infrastructure would be a top priority.” He referenced the courthouses in Pittsfield and Springfield as just two of those in need of review.

Particularly close to home for Fenton is the replacement for the Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse, Springfield’s district court.

“When I ran for this position four years ago, it was a campaign issue. We still don’t have a site.

We deserve a first-class hall of justice for Hampden County,” Fenton said. “For a while, the

Michael Fenton is a Springfield City Councilor and is running for Governor’s Council for District 8.

Reminder Publishing file photo

state refused to acknowledge there was a problem with the Springfield courthouse. Meanwhile, people are going to work in a sick building.”

Fenton said there are also smaller courthouses that should also be reviewed, including ones in Chicopee and Northampton.

Aside from courthouses, he said, “If there are large projects that have gone unfunded — roads, bridges — I could use the position’s proximity to the governor to advocate for that.”

For Fenton, the position in Boston would be all about Western Massachusetts. He said, “If the Governor’s Council isn’t going to advocate for this, who will?”

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Prospect of more off-campus housing creates stir

By Amy Porter

aporter@thereminder.com

WESTFIELD — A proposal heard by the Planning Board on May 5 for a special permit to divide 5 Clark St. into two residential lots to add a second multi-family housing structure caused some angst amongst residents.

The plan was presented by Rob Levesque of R. Levesque Associates and on behalf of Chad Hedges of Off-Campus Housing LLC. The existing building houses up to 10 college students.

Residents on the dead-end street and in the area objected to increasing the density of the environmental justice neighborhood, misbehavior like public urination, the lack of parking, and the increase in cars the houses would bring. The residents who spoke also noted the safety of children going to Whitney Park and the architectural nonconformity of the plan as reasons for their skepticism. The hearing was continued to May 19.

Levesque said the housing subdivision on the lot meets all of the lot size and frontage requirements. He said the new two-family house, a duplex, would have a front door on Clark Street and a main entrance off to the side, with parking to the rear.

“All of the standards have been met,” he said.

He said the new house would be similar to the existing house on the property, but more modern with a front gabled look. There would be multiple entrances on the new structure, which would not be as tall.

When asked if Levesque knew the room count in the new house and its intended use, he said he wasn’t sure. “I know the questions came up. These gentlemen have multiple properties that have housed college students,” he said.

Planning Board member Bernard Puza said he hadn’t realized how many properties are owned

by Off-Campus Housing, LLC. He said he had taken a drive past them and found them all of them pretty well kept. Levesque said they are owner-operators and do a lot of the work themselves.

Member Cheryl Crowe asked if a condition could be added to the special permit to not have college students. Levesque said there are regulations on who you can exclude, which he called a “sticky wicket,” and suggested

Budget

Continued from page 1

sume the entire amount of revenue that the city receives. So it really has been kind of a balancing act,” McCabe said.

McCabe said citywide personnel costs have increased between 2 and 3%, reflecting negotiated agreements and standard adjustments consistent with expectations. “Managed through the normal budget process, it is impossible for the city to expect the mayor’s office and its team to not give wage increases to our workers who deserve them. So just note, that is not going to go through my office anytime during

the board defer to City Planner Jay Vinskey.

Vinskey said the board had put that condition on apartments on Court Street, which Planning Board Chair William Carellas said the owners had voluntarily accepted.

“Anyone can be a college student or a graduate student. I don’t know the Planning Board’s intent. We do have a provision of no more than four unrelated tenants,” Vinskey said.

Opening questions to the public, Ward 3 Councilor Bridget Matthews-Kane questioned the architectural conformity of the plan with two duplexes tandem to each other. She said normally they are side by side, but the new building would have one in the front and one in the rear.

She asked if any other buildings in that neighborhood are a duplex turned 90 degrees. She said the proposal should be rejected because it is inconsistent with the architectural style of the neighborhood.

Levesque said the gabled roofs, height and scale of the planned building are consistent with those in the neighborhood.

He said, typically, existing duplexes would have access in front and back for both tenants. He said the new building would have two units, with several bedrooms.

“It does meet the architectural style,” he said.

Kenneth Mendoza of Kellogg Street spoke against the proposal on the basis of traffic congestion, the narrow streets and the safety of children. He said these properties generate five or more vehicles per dwelling and on-street parking, which is not just an inconvenience but a safety hazard.

Mendoza said he believed it was unlawful to market houses primarily or exclusively toward students in economic justice communities, and that concentrating high-density disruptive uses in one neighborhood creates an unequal burden on the community, contributing to a pattern of overuse. He said he was not opposed to college students but to the impact on the fabric of the environmental justice community with a high density of minorities, which is where he decided to invest after his tour of duty. He said he would take it up with Mass Environmental Justice.

In a formal letter of opposition to the project, Mendoza

spoke about fairness. “Marketing housing primarily or exclusively towards ‘students,’ combined with the concentration of these properties in areas identified as environmental justice communities, raises serious concerns about disparate impact. Even if not intentional, concentrating hi-density, disruptive uses in one neighborhood while others remain protected creates an unequal burden on that community,” he wrote.

Abutter Monique Lopez of 9 Clark St. said after looking at the plans, she questioned whether both houses would be on .20 acres after they add a driveway and space for four cars per dwelling. She said Clark Street is a dead-end street, and there are already two homes on the street that house college students.

“If you’re adding two additional dwellings with additional cars, that adds to the density.

How will you address the safety of the people who live there?

I’ve lived there since 1998. I work at the university, I get it,” Lopez said. “I’m curious, if the special permit is granted, how is that going to impact the neighborhood when there is a density issue in the neighborhood on a dead-end street.”

Nelson Lopez of Clark Street said he had never had any problem with the neighborhood until college kids moved in. He said there was drinking in the yard, and someone broke his fence backing out. He said when the photo was taken of the yard where the new house will be built, there were no cars in it, but normally it is filled with parked cars. He asked where people are supposed to park, and said it was an issue of safety and congestion.

Levesque said there had been a lot of discussion about safety.

“This is a city street,” he said, with full access to water and sewer. He said they are not requesting additional on-street parking. “From a safety standpoint, there is no known safety issue here,” he said.

Planning Board member John Bowen asked for help with the math on the parking. Vinskey said two cars per unit is the requirement.

Resident Jane Ocsin, who said she doesn’t live in the neighborhood but watches water, sewer and trash fees, said houses like these are abusing the system and

not being charged properly. She said Clark Street probably has a 4-inch-low flow pipe that needs to be replaced. “Sewer is the same thing. If they’ve got multirooms all with bathrooms, say nine college kids living there, they probably have two sewer fees, which are going up to $600/ year in July,” Ocsin said, adding, “That house is abusing it.”

During the board discussion, Bowen said he thinks parking is going to be a nightmare. “This is the hardest part of our job. I want to deny this, but it’s legal.”

Member Richard Salois said if they’re listing four people in both units, they could have 16 cars in the lot with eight parking spaces. “The numbers don’t work,” he said.

Someone pointed out that the existing building is being marketed for 10 people, not eight, which Vinskey said predated the ordinance.

Levesque said he actually agreed with the point. “I don’t think it’s an unreasonable statement, with 10 people in that house, what we’re showing wouldn’t work,” he said, agreeing that adding a condition in the permit of a maximum of four people per unit would clean it up. “The existing structure is part of the permit. You would need to condition the limit of no more than four unrelated people,” Levesque said.

Carellas said he would be happy to condition that limit, but

even in a single-family or traditional mother-daughter home, you could end up with four or five cars or more.

Bowen suggested requiring a fence down the middle of the lot.

“I don’t think we’ve ever dealt with this high of a density before of .10 and .20 acres. Not only that, this is a narrow, deadend street with the biggest municipal playground in town at the end of the dead-end street,” said member Philip McEwan.

Vinskey said the board has approved .2 lots, but McEwan said not on a dead-end street.

Levesque pointed out that it is a full-width city street.

“The board can condition what it wants, and the applicant can go forward or not go forward.

It is in the zoning ordinance already, no more than four unrelated,” Vinskey said.

Levesque said while he would argue that the plans are not drastically and architecturally different, he did feel that the question of parking was a fair point, and they need to look at it.

“I would like to request a continuance. I think if they’re renting to 10 people in the existing structure, that’s an issue. I think parking is absolutely a legitimate question and concern. Hopefully, we’ll come back with some information, maybe a reduction, and have some solutions,” he said, before the hearing was continued to May 19.

a budget cycle where we are not going to try to increase livable wages for our workers. It’s just not going to happen,” he said.

The most significant and least predictable source of pressure on the budget, according to McCabe, remains health care. “Following a 36% increase in FY2026, the city is now facing an additional 15% increase in FY2027.

That represents an approximate $3 million increase in the costs for the upcoming fiscal year; an impact of municipal [budgeting] municipalities have very limited control over.”

McCabe said in addition to state assistance, the remaining revenue streams include new growth, local receipts and levy

capacity. He said new growth for FY27 is projected to remain essentially flat, conservatively estimated at approximately $200,000. “That is well below historical norms,” he said, reflecting a combination of factors.

“We have broader economic conditions in the state of Massachusetts and local development realities that continue to shape new growth in the city of Westfield. Considerations such as aquifer protection and ongoing concerns related to truck traffic, particularly on the north side, play an important role in guiding development decisions and, in turn, influence the pace and scale of new growth. While these priorities are essential to protect-

ing community assets and quality of life, they also have a direct impact on revenue generation,” McCabe said.

In response to ongoing discussions around strengthening economic development, the proposed FY27 budget includes funding for an economic development officer position to help identify opportunities that align with the city’s priorities while supporting long-term fiscal sustainability.

McCabe said the budget reflects a careful effort to balance fiscal responsibility with the obligation to provide consistent and reliable service to residents.

“This approach signifies a commitment to making the difficult

but necessary decisions today to ensure the city’s long-term fiscal stability and continued delivery of essential services,” he said.

On a side note, McCabe said he has been traveling the state, recently addressed Senate President Karen Spilka and spoke in forums with Western Massachusetts’s rural communities and other mayors across the Pioneer Valley. “Our financial position is appreciably better than most.

I think the number is, there are 200 of the 351 cities and towns that are looking for some sort of general override. We are fortunate that we don’t have to do that, because we have excess capaci-

Kenneth Mendoza of Sackett Street said he believed the Environmental Justice community, which already houses off-campus housing, is being unfairly impacted.

Photo credit: Westfield Community TV

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Southwick announces mandatory water use restrictions

By Cliff Clark

cclark@thereminder.com

SOUTHWICK — The Water Commission and DPW Water Department announced mandatory water restrictions for town water customers.

The announcement came on May 1, the earliest restriction date allowed according to the town’s water withdrawal permit due to a period of low water flows on the Westfield River.

“In accordance with Southwick’s Water Withdrawal Permit through MassDEP, and pursuant to its authority, the Water Department has declared a State of Water Supply Conservation, thereby imposing a mandatory Water Use Restriction on non-essential outdoor water use,” according to the DPW’s announcement.

There is no other regional municipality that uses the flow of the Westfield River to determine when a mandatory water restriction can be implemented, and it’s for one reason: the protection of fish habitat.

“May 1 through June 30: the 502 cfs [cubic feet per second] minimum flow is protective of habitat for fish spawning during the spring bioperiod [which is the period during which certain biological processes dependent on stream flow rates occurs or is likely to occur],” according to the town’s water withdrawal permit.

The town must implement the restriction if the Westfield River has a flow rate of below 502 cubic feet per second and

then above that flow rate for three consecutive days to drop them.

While protecting fish habitat is a factor, the river’s flow rate is also used to determine the daily maximum withdrawal of water for the town.

It’s not water withdrawal as one might think; it is the water withdrawn from the Great Brook Aquifer, which is recharged by the Westfield River Basin.

From July 1 through Sept.

30, the flow must be below 174 cubic feet per second for seven consecutive days for the restrictions to be implemented. Lifting it requires a flow above 174 cfs for seven days to be lifted.

Those flows are mandated by the town’s water permit issued by the state Department of Environmental Protection in 2014, which is renewed every five years.

Westfield’s Water Department implemented its mandatory water restriction in midApril, which was triggered by the state’s declaration of level 1 drought conditions in the Connecticut River Valley Region. It remains in effect.

With the restrictions in place, Southwick’s water customers are permitted “non-essential” outdoor water use only once a week, on a specified day, before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m., according to the town’s website.

Which particular day residents can use water is determined by their street address. The water commissioners divided the town into north and south regions, along Granville Road, Depot

Street and South Longyard Road.

Those living north of that line with odd-numbered properties can use non-essential water on Monday mornings and evenings.

Even-numbered properties in the north region can use non-essential water on Tuesdays.

For those in the southern region with odd-numbered properties, non-essential water can be used on Wednesdays. Those in that region with even-numbered properties are allowed on Thursdays.

On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, as well as throughout town between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily, no non-essential outdoor water use is permitted, according to the town’s website.

Non-essential water use includes watering lawns using sprinklers, washing cars and washing structures or pavement.

Handheld hoses to water lawns and gardens are not covered by the ban, nor are soaker hoses or drip irrigation systems.

Use of water as part of core functions of a business, to produce food or fiber, to maintain livestock, for health or safety reasons, or to satisfy the requirements of a law or regulation are also still allowed during the ban.

Another exception is to establish a newly planted lawn in a home or business built in the previous 12 months, or to establish a new lawn on any property in September.

For those who disregard the restrictions, the town has the authority to issue a $50 fine for the

Where water customers live in Southwick determines which day of the week they can use non-essential water.

Photo credit: Southwick DPW

first offense and $100 for subsequent offenses.

As an additional measure of enforcement, the town’s water metering system allows the Water Department to track all water meters hourly, as the equipment automatically sends data to a central computer server.

Water customers whose meters record flow rates consistent with outdoor non-essential use will be flagged and investigated.

DPW crews will travel around town and will also be on the lookout for violators.

If an individual customer violates the ban, the DPW will

send a letter to the customer with a written warning. If the customer violates the ban again, another letter will be sent, and a $50 fine will be issued.

Under the terms of the DEP permit, town water customers have the collective power to increase the number of days of outdoor watering allowed from one to two, if they could reduce the number of gallons used per customer per day to 65, which has only happened a handful of times in town over the last decade.

Restrictions are lifted on Sept. 30 regardless of the river’s flow.

DPW director urges Southwick residents to invest in rain barrels

By Cliff Clark

cclark@thereminder.com

SOUTHWICK — During a discussion between water commissioners last year about the mandated water restrictions that town residents must deal with each summer, one commissioner, Dave Meczywor, suggested that the DPW partner with a company to offer rain barrels at reduced rates for water conservation.

After some searching, the department chose The Great American Rain Barrel Company.

“This will be our second year

partnering with The Great American Rain Barrel Company,” said DPW Director Rich Bosak about the program. “It is a wonderful idea because it catches water runoff from roofs and gutters and gives residents multiple beneficial uses like watering flower beds, watering their vegetable gardens, and washing vegetables when harvested, as well as having it as a back-up water source outside if needed.”

Investing in a rainwater barrel helps residents understand that they are a part of the solution to waste less water.

“It is a perfect example of

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showing water conservation in a do-it-yourself way throughout the spring and summer months and showing effort in helping our environment right in your own backyard while protecting our water resources at the same time,” Bosak said.

The barrels can be used to prevent rainwater from reaching impervious surfaces that often channel it into local streams, rivers and ponds.

“Hopefully, we have a good turnout of residents purchasing rain barrels with this program and [we] are able to continue with it as

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the years go on,” he said, adding that he and his father use the rain barrels to conserve water.

“I’m taking steps of my own to conserve water right in my backyard, too,” he said.

Investing in a rainwater barrel helps residents believe that they are a part of the solution to waste less water.

And there are other benefits to collecting rainwater.

Rainwater is “soft,” and free from minerals and chemicals such as chlorine, fluoride, and calcium, which are often present in municipal water.

Rainwater is also considered the perfect choice for watering plants or washing cars and windows.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 30% of daily water use is outdoors, and using the rain barrels could save the average homeowner 1,300 gallons of water annually and decrease water bills by as much as 40%.

A 500-square-foot roof can fill a properly installed 50-gallon rain barrel in approximately one hour.

One full rain barrel will water a 200-square-foot garden.

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Barrels are offered for $89 and will be available to pick up from noon to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 30 the DPW facility at 661 College Highway. Deadline for purchase is 5 p.m., Sunday, May 17.

The Great American Rain Barrel is a local food-import company that has been repurposing foodgrade shipping drums into rain barrels since 1988. The Great American Rain Barrel Co. has been an approved vendor by the MASS Department of Environmental Protection since 2010.

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PENNYSAVER | MAY 14-20, 2026

HILLTOWNS

THE PENNYSAVER is published weekly by Reminders Publishing, LLC.

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Chester Granite Saw to offer guided tours

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aporter@thereminder.com

BLANDFORD — Porter Memorial Library will close on May 18 to move its collection to its temporary home in Blandford Town Hall, where it will reopen on June 8.

While the library operates out of Town Hall, renovations will begin at the historic 1892 library building on 87 Main St. During the three-week closure, residents are being asked to hold onto any books from the library, which may be returned when it reopens.

Library Director Nicole Daviau said the library will move to a dedicated room in Town Hall, right next to the Council on Aging. “It’s big enough to allow us to bring over the entire collection.

Its square footage, in terms of usable space, is about the same size as the library’s,” she said, adding, “We’re moving into where my first-grade classroom was.”

“Berkshire Athenaeum is allowing us to use their old shelving, so we didn’t have to buy any shelving for it. It’s been a really long moving process, so we’re excited about this,” she added.

The library Board of Trustees and Daviau received word in December that the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners awarded a $5.4 million Small Population library construction grant to the town of Blandford for the renovation and expansion of Porter Memorial Library, as part of the Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program.

Small Population grants are awarded to municipalities with populations of less than 2,500.

Also announced at the time was a bequest to the library from Sumner Robbins, who passed

away in 2024 at the age of 99, that totaled more than $900,000.

Robbins, a lifelong resident, served the community in many different ways over his lifetime.

“His generosity to the library was limitless,” Daviau said. She said Robbins stipulated in his trust that the bequest must be used for the expansion of Porter Memorial Library.

Daviau said the plans for the renovation are at 90% completion and have been approved by the state. The last 10% will be finished in the next week or so.

“We’ve made decisions about most of the finishes, everything is designed to the details,” she said. They are waiting to get final approvals from different town boards on engineering details, such as the transformer and septic.

“We’re still on track, within our timeline, on budget and on schedule. The team that we have has been phenomenal in getting our project to this point in a way that’s been painless and actually fun,” she said.

Daviau said the worst part of the whole project so far has been emptying the 130-year-old building, which she called “an immense challenge.”

“When a director leaves a library, they leave all their stuff.

Times that by 130 years of directors.” She said a lot of what was left behind has been in the attic, going back 130 years, and the entire building has to be cleaned out.

Daviau said a moving company is coming on May 19 to move the collection over to Town Hall at 1 Blandford Stage Road, which is within walking distance, but books are heavy to move. “We’ll probably do a ceremonial book brigade moving back,” she said.

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Rod and the Uprising, Tom Willy Filliault, and Just Us with Linda Burns on two stages throughout the day, at the Chester Railway Station and on the porch of the Inn on Main Street.

At the Chester Railway Station will be a train show inside, and the opportunity to explore all of the train cars on the property, including the former Bernie’s Dining Depot, a 1946 Pullman coach-turned restaurant that was moved from Chicopee to a permanent spot at the station this

past year, along with several 1920s-era freight cars and a children’s boxcar.

Children’s activities, including a bounce house, petting zoo, donkey rides, an archery booth, story walk and state police K-9 demos, among many other activities, will be featured at the Emery Street ballfield.

More information is available at chesterrailwaystation.net and on the Chester Railway Station and the Western Mass. Hilltown Hikers Facebook pages.

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Porter Memorial Library moves to Blandford Town Hall

By Amy Porter

HADLEY

Guided tours of the Granite Saw, a 12-foot diameter shot saw, will be available during Chester on Track, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on May 16.

WESTHAM PTON

CHESTER — The Hilltown Hikers have announced a day of open guided tours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic Granite Saw property on 9 Prospect St., across from the Chester Railway Station Museum, during Chester on Track on May 16.

The Granite Saw, which is open to the public from dawn to dusk every day, features a walking path that passes by the old buildings, machinery, and the 12foot diameter shot saw structure, which is still standing today.

During Chester on Track, tour guides will share the history of the Granite Saw property, a stone cutting and finishing plant established in 1870 in the historic Chester Factory Village. It was purchased by Elizabeth Massa, the current president of the Western Mass Hilltown Hikers, in September 2023 and donated to the nonprofit to conserve and historically preserve the entire mill operation.

The Hilltown Hikers and its volunteers are cleaning up the property after 80 years of abandonment by cutting back invasive species, dead ash trees, fallen trees, and 8-12 inches of sediment that covered its floors, uncovering more of its history every day.

This project is one of a kind

in Western Massachusetts. It is the first stone finishing plant in the area where granite and, on occasion, marble, was brought to Chester to be cut and finished for monuments and historical buildings, and shipped throughout the country by rail. Remnants of the plant can be seen by visitors today.

Historical artifacts and media boards from the era will be on display during Chester on Track, and visitors may also take home a piece of renowned Chester blue granite. The Hilltown Hikers will also hold raffles of Granite Saw and Lost Railroad shirts, safety vests, water bottles and more.

Massa said the Hilltown Hikers are interested in hearing from relatives of anyone who worked at the Granite Saw location. She said they may contact her by phone at 413-302-0312 or by email at westernmasshilltownhikers@aol.com. She encouraged people to follow the Chester Granite and Polishing Works Facebook page.

Chester on Track will take place all day on Saturday, May 16, and will feature a parade on Main Street beginning at 10 a.m., where there will be a craft fair, plant sale, “one-lung” steam and gas engine demos, classic cars and a Chester Fire Department duck race. There will be live music by the Pitoniak Brothers, D

HUNTIN GTON

By Amy Porter

aporter@thereminder.com

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Residents review expansion plans for the Porter Memorial Library in Blandford. The new library will be four times its size, while maintaining its 1892 character.

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The hope is that they will move back to the completed library in November of 2027.

Meanwhile, Daviau is looking at the move to Town Hall as an opportunity. “We’ll be using Town Hall to bring awareness into what we have to offer,” she said, adding that they hope to bring in people who do not go to the library, some for accessibility reasons. “We’re looking at this as an opportunity to increase our outreach and our accessibility to people.”

Daviau is also looking forward to the summer reading

program when school ends. She said it will be space-themed and will celebrate the new space. The schedule for the summer reading program will be announced at the end of May. “I was anticipating this process to be more challenging. It feels like it should be harder than it has been. This has felt manageable; it’s surprising to me how manageable. Every day, we’re in process and on schedule; everything is going according to plan,” Daviau said, adding, “It’s been good. I’m looking forward to being in our new space.”

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|6|

THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS

Westfield Tech seniors - Antonio Simpson, Andrew Galczynski, Hunter Bokio, and John Knapik - were honored with their families on Senior Night May 5.

Starting pitcher Antonio Simpson delivers a pitch.

Camden Witczak scoops up an SICS grounder.

WESTFIELD TECH VS SICS BASEBALL

BASEBALL Hunter Bolio scores a run while Josh Elmer rounds third on his way to score another.

The Westfield Tech tigers defeated the SICS Bulldogs 16-1 at Bullens Field May 5 on Tech's Senior Night.

Senior Antonio Simpson on the mound for Westfield Tech at their May 5 game with Springfield International Charter School.

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|7|

PENNYSAVER | MAY 14-20, 2026

WTA senior John Knapik readies a throw to first.

Josh McDonald scores a run while Hunter Bolio moves to third base.

Logan Czekovsky lets a close inside pitch go by.

Lucas Cummings flies in for another Tiger run.

MAY 14-20, 2026 | PENNYSAVER

Budget

Continued from page 3

ty,” he said.

During a brief discussion following the presentation, Knapik said in relation to health care, the Senate had just stripped the provision to require GLP-1 funding unless prescribed for diabetic purposes and not weight loss. He asked if that would impact the anticipated $3 million increase in health care costs for the city.

|8|

McCabe said Westfield was not affected, even though last year the GLP-1 coverage cost the city about $800,000. “This year the GLP-1 is not being offered in the HMO Blue or the Blue Cross/Blue Shield, which [are] the essential services for the city,” he said.

“So even though it’s not being offered, the increase was still $3 million,” Knapik said.

McCabe said he had just received the number for a 15%

increase in health care costs, after putting 10% in his original budget, costing the city another $1 million.

Bean commented that two or three years ago, there was more money due to federal funding.

“Now, we’re back to where we used to be. In the grand scheme of things … I’m seeing across the state a lot of overrides in Proposition 2 1/2. You’re also seeing a lot of debt exclusion with Proposition 2 1/2. What’s your opinion

THEREMINDER.COM | WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS

about that? Is that going to be the common theme moving forward in this commonwealth,” he asked.

McCabe said that, looking at Westfield’s budget specifically, if the city can get through one more year of legitimately using some excess levy capacity, that will increase property tax revenue over time. “Once that’s done, then 2 1/2 has a larger, meaningful number,” he said.

Bean asked if there had been any conversation in his meetings to prevent the kind of override

and debt reduction that has happened so rapidly across the state.

McCabe said the reason he’s ramping up now is that he’s trying to seed 2028. “2027 is behind us already. The budget came out today. I’m trying to seed 2028 and put a fine point on it,” he said, adding, “Let’s be honest, when we all came into our positions, were we budget experts? No, we came from all walks of life. The exact same thing occurs with our legislators, with our representatives and our senators.”

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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 Mary Kiefer Ernest Lagacy Jr. Judith M. LeClerc Ann G. Lincoln FEEDING HILLS Robert G. King Elaine S. Verallis

MONTGOMERY Christopher M. Mann SOUTHWICK Roland R. Allen WEST SPRINGFIELD Barbara A. Leshinski Vincent Rizzo

WESTFIELD Josephine A. Delekta Shirley Mae Dewey Lionel “Butch” Joaquin Margaret E. Osowski Roger A. Page Robert T. Parks Dorothy Saalfrank Andrew D. Scheip

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PENNYSAVER | MAY 14-20, 2026

DINING ENTERTAINMENT www.TheReminder.com

New theater group introduces itself with first production

By Trent Levakis

tlevakis@thereminder.com

EASTHAMPTON — In an effort to bring fresh, queer and gender diverse stories to the local theater scene, a new theater group, Why’s It Gotta Be?, has formed here in Western Massachusetts.

The group, which started in the fall, is gearing up for its first production, the dark comedy “Legoland,” which will run at CitySpace from May 22-31.

Founder, actor and president of Why’s It Gotta Be?, Devin Dumas, told Reminder Publishing that he, along with fellow peers who are now on the board of the new group, saw a gap in consistent productions related to queer and gender diverse stories and thought, why not fill this need with a fresh new group committed to offering just that?

“We really just wanted to create a consistent space for queer theater, for new theater, for gender diverse theater that we weren’t really seeing in the area,” said Dumas. “And that’s not at anyone else, there’s absolutely wonderful theater in the area, like K&E does great stuff, Easthampton Theater Company does great stuff, Exit 7 does great stuff. But some of us found ourselves in a position where we always seemed to be waiting to see who would announce the next queer-based show, or the next gender diverse show, or the next new thing, rather than something that had been done several times before. So, I grabbed a couple people that I was close with and was like, ‘hey why don’t we just make something that’s consistent for that,’ so we did.”

Dumas explained that he wanted the mission and goals of the group to be clear and present in its name.

“I came up with it because I’m 27, and I’m very vocal about wanting to see queer relationships expressed healthy in media, and I was often asked, ‘Oh, well, why’s it gotta be gay? Why’s it gotta be queer? Why’s it gotta be trans?

Why’s it gotta be all these things?’

And you get so tired of hearing that to a point that it’s almost like how queer used to be a slur and we reclaimed it as an identity.

I’m almost reclaiming that for us now. You can’t tell us ‘Why’s it gotta be’ anymore because that’s the whole point now. ‘Why’s it gotta be queer?’ Because that’s our whole thing,” said Dumas.

With that said, Dumas and the group feel that the best way to kick things off is with a production of Jacob Richmond’s dark comedy, “Legoland.” The play tells the story of Penny and Ezra Lamb, siblings who have been home-schooled on a hippie colony their whole lives and dying to get out.

After a failed attempt at connection in Walmart, the commune is busted, and the siblings — each seething with repression — are enrolled in a Catholic private school where they are instant social outcasts. A cross-continental adventure ensues for the two siblings through this irreverently dark story bursting with originality, bringing audiences along for the ride in an engaging fashion as the Lamb siblings are prying for connection any way they can get it.

“Legoland” opens at CitySpace on Friday, May 22, at 7:30 p.m. The rest of the shows will take place on May 23 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., May 24 at 2 p.m, May 29 at 7:30 p.m., May 30 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and on May 31 at 2 p.m. The show contains adult language, according to organizers.

General tickets are $25 and available for purchase online at wigbtheater.org/legoland. During the run on May 26 at 7:30 p.m., the group will also host a fundraiser called Mid-Run Drag Trivia night inside CitySpace to support the newly formed group.

Terrance Peters (left) and Julia Adamo (right) star in Why’s It Gotta Be? Theater Group’s first production, “Legoland.”

Photo credit: Why’s It Gotta Be? Theater Group

Dumas is directing “Legoland” and shared that this play has always been a production he wanted to be a part of.

“I actually said I didn’t want to do ‘Legoland’ first because I knew people knew it was something that I really, really wanted to do. I didn’t want to seem like I started this theater group so I could do ‘Legoland.’ But then ... we decided that ‘Legoland’ from a public-facing standpoint was the most approachable title out of anything,” explained Dumas. “The play has nothing to do with Legos, but we figured a dark comedy that really gets a little gritty and is just fast paced backto-back-to-back, and has this cool title ‘Legoland,’ that draws people in, and we can just make this really colorful, fun, inviting and interactive immersive show. We just decided, let’s try that.”

Julia Adamo and Terrance Peters are starring in this production as Penny and Ezra Lamb.

Both actors have worked with Dumas before and with some of the other local groups as well.

Both shared that they are eager to be part of the first production from the group.

“The wonderful thing about both the Massachusetts and Connecticut community theater is it’s a very small world, and so I had known Devin a little,” said Peters. “When I’d seen this new group that a lot of folks that I respect and like working with were very supportive, and then [I] saw they were doing ‘Legoland,’ a script that has been on my radar for so long and is very rarely done, even though I think it’s such a fantastic script, I decided to put my foot through.”

Peters said he is a big fan of any group that puts its communi-

ty first, and added that when he learned about the story behind the group’s name and mission statement, he knew Why’s It Gotta Be? is committed to creating a welcoming environment.

Adamo, also a board member for the group, shared similar sentiments about the opportunity to be a part of the group’s first production. Having worked with Dumas through a production he directed through Exit 7, Adamo considers Dumas a great connector in the local theater space.

“He has this remarkable way of just bringing people together and creating such a sense of community around queer art that I was like anything I can do with Devin I want to do,” she said.

Adamo said that Dumas’ vision for the group is meaningful as it adds a niche within the larger and overall healthy local theater scene in the area.

“There is such a robust theater scene in the Western Mass. area, and we’re really grateful for that, and there’s so many enthusiastic performers, and there are so many amazing productions going on, so it’s a really wonderful and supportive community with a lot of people who are doing really cool, really fresh and interesting work,” Adamo said. “But the idea that we can find our niche within this larger scene while consistently prioritizing really fresh and diverse work, just feels really exciting.”

Future goals Dumas already has long-term visions for what is possible for the new cadre. Specifically, he hopes to one day purchase sound and lighting equipment for the cadre, offer stipends to makers and artists, produce in-house and

audio film productions, and ultimately secure a space to utilize for performances and rehearsals to outsource to other developing and independent artists.

Dumas said that he hopes the group can add a multimedia aspect to their work, as well.

Along with his background in theater, Dumas also has a background in audio drama storytelling and hopes to add that to their repertoire.

“I really view audio drama as a form of theater art, film as a form of theater art. I’d really like to see us at some point further down the road be able to reach out to people who are interested, if not performing on stage, perhaps performing behind a screen or behind a microphone, and creating space to tell fresh stories, queer stories, different stories in that format,” Dumas added. “We’re doing this for us, we’re doing this to share art, we’re doing this to tell stories, we’re doing this for audiences. We’re not doing this to make fortunes, we’re doing this to share visions, so if we can

help other artists by providing a space five, 10, 15 years down the line, that’s the goal too.”

In the meantime, as the group grows from its infancy, Dumas hopes to facilitate more shows.

Simultaneously, the plan is to keep an eye out for a permanent home, hopefully in Easthampton or Northampton, but the group is open to any opportunities in the region.

“We definitely are gravitating a little bit more towards Northampton and Easthampton when we do events just because there’s a lot of performance space and a lot of people that we feel will resonate with these stories, but we’re open to anywhere within the area,” said Dumas. “We really hope that we can get audiences in that these stories resonate with, but also performers that these stories resonate with, because we do it for both of them. And just really hoping we can continue with our long-term creative goals as well.”

To learn more about Why’s It Gotta Be? visit wigbtheater.org.

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A.R.A. JUNK & FURNITURE REMOVAL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL DEMOLITION SHEDS/PATIOS HOUSE CLEANOUTS Appliances & Garage We Recycle & Donate

PETE 413-433-0356

Free Estimates Credit cards accepted Same day service!

FIREWOOD

Call: 413-530-4820

HANDYMAN

CRYSTAL CLEAR WINDOWS Windows cleaned inside and out.

Free estimates, fully insured.

Call Paul 413-237-2053 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

- Have current certification as a “First Responder as required in MGL 105.

- Must be flexible and willing to work all hours, to include weekends, evenings and holidays as necessary.

Resumes can be emailed to: nboersig@townofrussell.us Mailed to: Town of Russell P.O. Box 407 Russell, MA 01071 Attn: Fire Chief Search

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

Internal Candidates may be given preference.

HEALTH & MEDICAL

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Get help now with a drug or alcohol problem?

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

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade. 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-299-7135

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with d e t a i l s !

1 - 8 5 5 - 5 2 6 - 1 0 6 0 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

HELP WANTED The Town of Russell is seeking to hire a Fire Chief for an on-Call Volunteer Department Resumes and letters of interest are being accepted until May 22, 2026.

AFFORDABLE FIREWOOD Seasoned and green. Cut, split, delivered. Half-Cords/FullCords/Multiple-Cords.

Now ready for immediate delivery.

Senior, Veteran and Bulk discounts apply!

OLD SCHOOL WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING Gutter Cleaning $95 any home; Power washing starts at $99; Window Cleaning starting at $75; Roof Moss Control $99.

Call Bob 413-896-6442. FULLY INSURED www.windowcleanup.com

GENERAL SERVICES

Lic.#E16303

1996 Grumman 16' Bass Boat w/2022 Mercury 25-HP, four-stroke (key start).

Front-mounted MTR Trolling-Motor.

Shorelander Galvanized Trailer.

Quabbin Certified. $7,500 Call John 413-297-3765/gnfshg@aol.com

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

Wood Chopper Bob's Firewood Green and Seasoned Hardwoods Cut to length, Split, and Delivered (413)426-7529 or (860)463-6519

Preferred qualifications, as follows, to be considered for the position: - Minimum Ten (10) years' experience in a municipal Fire Service organization.

- Minimum Five (5) years' experience at the Company Officer level in a municipal Fire Service organization.

- Attended and completed the Massachusetts Firefighter Academy’s Firefighter l/ll training.

- Completion of the Massachusetts Fire Prevention Officer training program, Basic level.

- Have current certification as a “First Responder as required in MGL 105.

- Must be flexible and willing to work all hours, to include weekends, evenings and holidays as necessary.

Resumes can be emailed to: nboersig@townofrussell.us

The Town of Russell is an equal opportunity employer

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

HOUSE PAINTING LETOURNEAU & SONS PAINTING ONE CALL DOES IT ALL! Family owned and operated, painting/home improvements. Serving Western MA since 1986.

Specializing in residential/commercial , exterior/interior painting and staining. Exterior home repairs/carpentry of all type.

Call Bill for your FREE no obligation estimate (413) 977-9633 or (413) 562-5727

Mailed to: Town of Russell P.O. Box 407 Russell, MA 01071 Attn: Fire Chief Search

www.Ls-painting.com

The Town of Russell is an equal opportunity employer

LANDSCAPING

Internal Candidates may be given preference.

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

413-551-9653

~ Introducing the Park Square Realty FirstKey Program ~

The Best Way Home

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.

AGAWAM

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

parksquarerealty.com

Aurelia Soriano to Ibrahim Aljashaam, 119 Littleton St. $195,000 Claire Carter to Jhimly Bienvenu and Beatrice Rosier Bienvenu, 62 Washburn St. $467,000 Direct Auto Realty East Inc., to Axis Holdings LLC, 880 Boston Road $699,999 Dominic J. Savio to Janequa Davis, 509 Plumtree Road $330,000 Emily Le to Keisha Green, Nigel Greaves and Caryl Greaves, 35 Spruceland Ave. $555,000 Emtay Inc., to Jennifer Robblets and Kyle Godet, 27 Parallel St. $300,000 Enelida Reyes to Jonathan Garcia, 10 Pine Street Court $52,500 Fannie Mae and Federal National Mortgage Association to Global Homes Properties LLC, 349-347 Walnut St. $65,900 BLANDFORD Gemini Town Homes LLC, to Katheryne M. Rosario Torres, 50 Central St. Unit 504 $206,000 James Kim Bergland and Patricia M. Bergland to Conner R. Osden, 0 Sperry Road $80,000 Grahams Construction Inc., to David Maina and Nelly Nganga, 89 Crystal Brook Drive $650,000 Victor Mulholland and Leny Mulholland to Steven Sansouci and Kim Sansouci, 6 Blair Road $50,000 Henderson Investments LLC, to Winyon Nunez Diaz, 150 Seymour Ave. $434,000 Henry E. Alvarado and Daysi Alvarado to Troy Doming, 9 Utica St. $269,900 RUSSELL Barbara F. Winterson and Barbara Winterson to Daniel Hovelsrud and Victoria Hovelsrud, 49 Glasgow Drive $424,900 Jennica L. Halbert and Jennica L. Verge to David Z. Podworski Jr., and Lyndsay Podworski, 67 Fallston St. $300,874 Prime Flips LLC, to Idaliz Alicea, 36 Patriots Path $435,000 Amjad Real Estate LLC, to Zain Safdar and Sana Abeer, 554-556 Franklin St. Extn.

David S. Walles and Katherine H. Walles to Joseph Bortolussi and Katie Bortolussi, 384 Pine St. Doreen J. Letendre and Thomas J. Letendre to Hannah Boulais, 762 Suffield St. Jeffrey J. Benoit to Nicholas J. Benoit and Jaclyn M. Benoit, 14 Briarcliff Drive Ronald Miller, representative, and Wayne Miller, estate, to Kristen Fitzgerald, 47 Corey Colonial Sean Stevenson to Matthew Liimatainen and Matthew Robert Liimatainen, 67 Colemore St.

SOUTHWICK

Brandon M. Clonch and Kimberly H. Clonch to Aleksandr Ptselnikov, 240 Hillside Road James Foley to Christopher Foley, 7 Pineywood Road Theresa A. Demichele to Betty Lou Lempke, 62 Southview Drive Unit 62

SPRINGFIELD

49 Euclid LLC, to SA Banbury LLC, 49 Euclid Ave. 716 Spring Valley LLC, to Isaiah Williams, 914-916 Belmont Ave. Andrea M. O’Connor, receiver, and Spring Park Properties Inc., to Courtney Lemelin, 18 Hillside Drive Andrew C. Robbins and Patrick Robbins to Sareen Properties LLC, 89 Judson St. Annette B. Eatmon and Charlotte L. Williams to Bridget Lorraine Pollard, 135-137 Suffolk St.

$520,000 $441,000 $283,000 $440,000 $260,000 $342,000

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Barbara J. Beckwith to Ethan Schneider, 791 Morgan Road $730,000 Dennis Clark, Karla Clark and Karla Zambelli to Joshua Shea and Kylea Shea, 117 Sibley Ave. $274,018 Tiago Moreira to Alex O. Obutu, 31 Russell St. $325,000 Wollen Makori and Eunice Kwamboka to Victor Aranga and Irene Mokaya, 41 West School St. $265,000 $325,000 $246,500 $155,000 $390,000

WESTFIELD

Charles MacMillan to Ernest Obeng, 49 Pochassic St. Jacqueline M. Sullivan to Nicole M. Baginski and Eric S. Castonguay, 32 Crescent Ridge Road James P. Smith to Fitzgerald Home Solutions LLC, 74 South Maple St. Kathy A. Carr to Karen C. Tallis and Kathy A. Carr, 391 Pochassic Road Keith R. Dearellano to Victor Harti, 42 Putnam Drive

$370,000 $350,000 $410,000 $390,000 $460,000 $770,000 $180,000 $100 $250,000

WE ARE HOMETOWN NEWS | THEREMINDER.COM

MASONRY MASONRY AND CHIMNEY REPAIR Stucco/Repointing/Small Chimney Repairs/Rebuilds.

Call or Text Chris 413-977-9041

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

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

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

Todd: 413-575-3839

MISCELLANEOUS Lean how to reduce your Credit Card to fraction of what you owe. Call the Debt Help Line now for free advice. Call (800)245-1567 DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK, BOAT, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1888-305-7286 today!

ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855925-2643 REPLACE YOUR ROOF with the best looking and longest lasting material. Steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited time offer up to 50% off installation and Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs 1-844-463-4077

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BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1877-543-9189

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

Free quote. Ask about first application special!

833-860-0811

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author`s guide 1-877729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

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

For more information www.communitypublishers.com/category/all-products

Consumer Cellular - same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No longterm contract, no hidden fees free activation.

All plans feature unlimited talk & text, starting at just $20/mo. Call 1-877-751-0866

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available.

Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833370-1234

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB games! Choice Pkg $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devic-es. HBO Max included for 3 mos w/Choice Package or higher. No contract or hidden fees! Restrictions apply. IVS 866-859-0405 Don't let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595 Home Break-ins take less than 60 seconds.

Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-833-8901612 Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit cards. Medical bills. Car loans.

Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: Call 1-844-955-4930 Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as 1-day. Limited time, waving all installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change & vary by dealer. Ends soon. 844-501-3208 MobileHelp, America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away.

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

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

Peace of mind & early detection - Now more than ever, it’s important to get screened for Stroke & Cardiovascular Disease risk. Life Line Screening is simple & painless. 833-970-4172 Pest control: Protect your home from pests safely. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders & more. Locally owned & affordable.

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

Attention timeshare owners. We're offering you a way to legally get rid of your timeshare. Call right now to qualify and receive a free consultation. You can terminate your timeshare legally and permanently. Call The timeshare exit hotline now – (800)298-5026

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and longlasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 877-305-1535

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

Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1833-640-4753. Have zip code of property ready when calling!

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

It’s a power move.

SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLE “TRAPPED WATER”

PENNYSAVER | MAY 14-20, 2026

TAG SALES

VACATION RENTAL

WESTFIELD 14 Cross Street, Fri/Sat/Sun, May 15th/16th/17th. 8:00a.m.-4:00p.m.

Household, Clothes, Toys, Tools & More!

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

Free Consultations. Over 450 positive reviews.

Call 877-621-7517

TREE SERVICE

TOP DOLLAR PAID for old vintage Guitars!

Gibson, Fender, Martin, Grecsch, Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Etc. 1930's to 1980's. Call 866433-8277 Water damage cleanup & restoration: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! Call 24/7: 1-833-887-0117.

Have zip code of service ready when you call!

WANTED

American Tree & Shrub Removal, pruning, bucket/crane work.

Light excavation and tree planting.

Fully Insured/Free Estimates.

24-hour Emergency Services.

20+ years Experience 413-579-5619 Cell: 413-530-2982

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

UPHOLSTERY

WANTED TO BUY

KEITH'S UPHOLSTERY & REPAIRS

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

Call/Text Sam 413-531-5381

40+ years experience for home or business.

25% Discount off all fabrics.

Get quality workmanship at a reasonable price.

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

Call (413)562-6639 Monday-Friday, 9-5.

PAINTING & WALLPAPERING ALWAYS CALL FIRST!!!

M&M SERVICES 29 Years serving the Westfield area. Painting, staining, house washing, interior/exterior. Wall coverings. Water damage and ceiling/wall repairs. Commercial/residential. Free estimates.

Insured. References.

Call Carmine at: (413) 537-4665 No job is too small!!!

PLUMBING The local news coverage you love brought to you in a new way.

DAVID ROSE PLUMBING & HEATING For ALL your plumbing needs.

No job is too small!

Veteran Owned and operated MA Licensed and Insured Call Dave 413-579-4073

SO THAT REMINDS ME

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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

TO PLACE YOUR LEGAL AD CALL:

HATFIELD

Roxanne: 413.213.6178

HADLEY

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

Evan: 413.213.6170

GRANBY

SOUTH HADLEY

SOUTHAMPTON

NT

GO

HOLYOKE

ME

BLANDFORD

OTIS

PTON

WESTHAM

GTON

MO

RY

LUDLOW CHICOPEE

RUSSELL

TOLLAND

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

HUNTIN

CHESTER

NORTHAMPTON

EASTHAM

Shannon: 413.735.1660

PTON

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

AMHERST

WESTFIELD

GRANVILLE

MASSACHUSETTS

SOUTHWICK

WEST SPRINGFIELD

WILBRAHAM SPRINGFIELD

AGAWAM LONGMEADOW

CONNECTICUT

EAST LONGMEADOW

HAMPDEN

SOMERS ENFIELD

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

181 ROOT ROAD • WESTFIELD, MA • 413.562.4181

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

EAST LONGMEADOW - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY

144 Papers: St. Joseph Dr., Wisteria Ln., Pembroke Terr., Rockingham Cir., Dartmouth Ln., Partial - Prospect St., Chestnut St., Somers Rd. 129 Papers: Gerrard Ave., Holy Cross Cir., Kingston Ave., Lombard Ave., Nelson St., Roderick Ave., Partial- N. Main St. 166 Papers: Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only) 131 Papers: Shawmut St., Mayfair St., Westminster St., Thompkins Ave., Partial-Gates Ave 64 Papers: Anne St., Helen Cir., John St., Vadnais St., Converse Cir. 327 Papers: Melwood Ave., Chestnut St., Bluegrass Dr., Maple St., Powder Hill Rd., Fairhaven Dr. 174 Papers: Orchard Rd., Pine Grove Cir., Partial-Parker St., Porter Rd., Allen St. 150 Papers: Breezy Knoll Rd., Elm St., Mapleshade Ave., Pleasant St., Oak Bluff Cir.

LONGMEADOW - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY

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., Whitmun Rd., Woodmont Rd.

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. 157 Papers: Birch Rd., Yarmouth St., King Philip Dr., Sheffield Ave., Partial-Wolf Swamp Rd. 115 Papers: Hopkins Pl., Hawthorn St., Fairfield Ter., Laurel Ln., Partial-Laurel St. 42 Papers: Lynwood Dr., Duxbury Ln., Elizabeth Cir. 67 Papers: Woolworth St., Woodside Dr., Blokland Dr., Wilkin Dr., Grassy Gutter Rd. 65 Papers: Park Dr., Brittany Rd., Normandy Rd., Partial-E. Greenwich Rd., Colony Rd. 149 Papers: Prynne Ridge Rd., Wyndward Rd., Wildwood Glen, Maplewood St., Partial-Maple Rd.

WILBRAHAM - THURSDAY, HOOK DELIVERY

35 Papers: Arbor Ln., Greenwood Rd., Oak Ridge Dr., Old Orchard 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., Partial - Mountain Rd., Monson Rd., Tinkham Rd., Main St.

Call Holly @

413.788.1316

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

MAY 14-20, 2026 | PENNYSAVER

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