Officials remember former state Rep. Ben Swan
Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Upon news of the death of retired state Rep. Benjamin Swan on May 25, condolences poured in from elected officials from every level of government. They shared their memories of Swan as a mentor, leader and civil rights advocate.
The 92-year-old Swan built a legacy in his adopted home of Springfield. He had attended Howard University, a historically Black institution of higher education in Washington, D.C. He went on to earn a master’s degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1977.
Swan unsuccessfully ran for mayor of Springfield in 1991 against incumbent Mary Hurley and in 1992 against Robert “Bob” Markel. He then ran and won election to the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1994, serving the 12th Hampden District, before holding the 11th Hampden district seat from 2009 to 2016.
Over his time in the state House of Representatives, the nine-term representative filed legislation that ranged from reconnecting incarcerated persons with their families, to protecting women’s reproductive health to fueling job creation through energy efficiency programs.
Generations of local, state and federal officials looked up to Swan. City Council President Tracye Whitfield said she sought Swan’s counsel when she considered running for City Council. “For decades, Representative Swan embodied what it meant to serve the community first,” Whitfield said in a statement. She described his as “a remarkable life defined by public service, leadership, mentorship and unwavering dedication to the people of Springfield.” Whitfield added,
“To live for 92 years is a blessing. To spend those years in service to others is a legacy.”
“Throughout his career, he remained a steadfast voice for equity, criminal justice reform, educational opportunity and for those whose voices too often went unheard,” said State Sen.
Adam Gómez in a statement. He called Swan “a giant,” for his life of leadership and service. “For generations of leaders in Springfield and across Western Massachusetts, Representative Swan helped light the path forward. His work strengthened our city and challenged all of us to build a more just and equitable community. Springfield is better because Ben Swan called it home. His example of service, courage, and conviction will continue to inspire future generations.”
Mayor Domenic Sarno released a statement that read, “How ironic that this Korean War veteran passed away on Memorial Day. Ben was a well-respected leader by all, a quiet warrior who never looked for any accolades for himself. He worked very hard to provide for his district and our city of Springfield.”
While Swan may not have sought accolades, many were bestowed upon him, including the 2022 dedication of “Ben Swan Way” in Springfield’s Mason Square neighborhood.
In a statement, State Rep. Orlando Ramos remembered Swan’s activist work — marching along with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and serving as the president of the Springfield chapter of the NAACP, a post Swan’s nephew, Bishop Talbert Swan, now holds.
“His lifetime of activism proved that systemic change is possible when fought for with integrity and persistence,” Ramos wrote, adding, “We owe him an immeasurable debt of gratitude. As we mourn his loss, let us commit
ourselves to honoring his legacy by standing tall for justice, and ensuring that his lifelong fight for equity continues.”
Sarno wrote, “Many a times the word ‘icon’ is used for he or she, whether worthy or not; in Ben’s case he was a Civil Rights icon, who not only fought for civil rights locally, marching in the streets of Springfield, but also nationally, marching with the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” He said that naming the DeBerry/ Swan School after the retired representative was a “no brainer.”
“Ben Swan was the father of Civil Rights in Springfield and Massachusetts, but I would make the case it could have been throughout the country. Remember, he marched with Dr. [Martin Luther] King, He was on the Pettus Bridge,” said State Rep. Bud Williams, referring to the bridge in Slema, Alabama, where King, John Lewis and several other no-
table figures in the Civil Rights movement were beaten by the Alabama Highway Patrol. “Ben fought the system. He fought the system for those who could not fight the system for themselves. He was a voice for the voiceless.” Williams said, “To succeed him on Beacon Hill is just such an honor ... those are big shoes. I could never fill those shoes.”
Aside from his work as an activist or on Beacon Hill, Swan’s legacy includes deep friendships with people throughout Western Massachusetts. U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, who has represented the region in Washington for nearly four decades and was Springfield’s mayor before that, shared, “While we had the pleasure of serving our community in different capacities for many years, I first met Ben while delivering his newspaper as a delivery boy for
Council approves restaurant parking lot over landlord concerns
A pair of landlords in Indian Orchard vehemently opposed a zone change to create a five-car parking lot at 376-378 Main St., citing concerns about noise and traffic.
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City honors its fallen military members for Memorial Day
A massive American flag, tied aloft on the ladders of two fire trucks, flapped in the wind over the steps of Springfield City Hall for the Memorial Day ceremony on May 22. Page 5
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno (right) chats with Ben Swan during the dedication of the new Deberry-Swan School. Republican file photo
Council approves restaurant parking lot over landlord concerns
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — A pair of landlords in Indian Orchard vehemently opposed a zone change to create a five-car parking lot at 376-378 Main St., citing concerns about noise and traffic. Despite this, the Springfield City Council voted 10-1 to approve the change, feeling that it would actually ease the parking congestion the landlords were concerned about.
Attorney James Ferrera, representing petitioner Rakesh Patel, explained that his client would be opening a restaurant at the site. As with many businesses on Main Street, on-street parking is all that is currently available. To address this, Patel wished to change the zone of the back half of the property, from Residential C to Commercial P, which is dedicated to parking. The now-dirt lot would be paved, lined and lit, Ferrera said. It would only be accessible via Quebec Street, a residential street.
After hosting a community meeting on the topic, the Indian Orchard Citizen’s Council
had written a letter in support of the zone change. Ferrera also produced a petition in favor of the zone change, which he said was signed by 35 neighbors and abutters. Not all abutters were in favor of the plan, however.
Dariusz Winkiewicz, who owns a residential property next door to the proposed lot, feared the lot would bring people with noisy cars and loud radios. His tenants sleep during the day and want quiet, he said. He said people already have trouble finding parking spaces on Quebec Street and he felt attracting commercial customers would make that worse.
“When I lose tenants, how will I pay your taxes?” he asked the councilors.
Eddie Ramos owns the residential property across from the lot’s frontage on Quebec Street. He said the street is too narrow for commercial traffic, and when people park on both sides of the street, only one vehicle can pass at a time.
Ward 6 City Council Victor Davila asked the opponents if they lived in the neighborhood. Winkiewicz lived elsewhere in Springfield, while Ramos
lived in Ludlow. Both said that where they live is inconsequential because they pay taxes on their respective Quebec Street properties.
Ward 4 City Councilor Malo Brown sought to find a resolution to the opponents’ concerns. He suggested they could put in triple pane windows to keep the sound out. Winkiewicz was adamant that no windows would block the noise he was worried would occur. Brown also suggested road signage might help with traffic, encouraging residents to go slow. Ramos said only changing the road to a oneway traffic pattern would help.
Finally, Brown said the area may benefit from police patrols. He suggested the petitioner work with the opponents. “I’m always for good neighbors.” Ferrera said his client was willing to work with them.
City Council President Tracye Whitfield asked Ferrera if residents would be allowed to park in the lot when the restaurant was closed or if there was a snow emergency. “Of course,” Ferrera said. “We’re good neighbors.”
Ward 8 City Councilor Zaida
Govan said the zone change is preliminary, and that the council could impose conditions of the business during the special permit process, but Whitfield reminded Govan that the business does not need a special permit.
Ward 3 City Councilor
Melvin Edwards asked Deputy Director of Planning Philip Dromey if the restaurant could operate in the location regardless of whether the property was rezoned. Dromey confirmed that the front portion of the property, where the restaurant would be located, is already zoned for such use.
When Winkiewicz said there was a restaurant on the site before that did not request to install a parking lot, Whitfield said the lack of parking may be why that restaurant went out of business.
Winkiewicz also theorized that the business owner would run the restaurant for six months and then sell the property to a used car seller or autobody mechanic. Ward 2 City Councilor Michael Fenton asked Dromey to address Winkiewicz’s concerns about a “bait-and-switch.” Dromey said Commercial P is solely used for parking lots and
no other uses are allowed. Winkiewicz said children play in the street. He said that if the council approved the zone change and a child was hit by a car, they would be responsible. “You may not think it now, but when you visit the big guy upstairs, this is what you’ll have to answer to, whether you like it or not,” he said.
Whitfield responded, “We can always live in the what ifs. We can what-if to death... but we’re operating in the facts that we have presented in front of us.”
Fenton pointed out that the Resident C zone is “high intensity” and if a multifamily residential building is built there, he felt that the traffic would be worse than this use.
The one councilor swayed by the opponents was At Large City Councilor Justin Hurst. “I think these two gentlemen raise some serious concerns,” he said. He said the restaurant’s grab-andgo concept would work against traffic safety and increase the number of vehicles visiting the business. When the vote was taken, Hurst was the only councilor to dissent.
Franconia to host 52nd annual Henry Bontempo golf tournament Sept. 4
SPRINGFIELD — For the 52nd year, the annual Henry Bontempo Four-Ball Golf Tournament will be held over Labor Day Weekend at Springfield’s Franconia Golf Course.
Henry Bontempo served as head golf professional at the city’s first municipal course, Franconia, located on Dwight Road, from its opening in 1929 to 1968. Bontempo, hired at the age of 22, remained as the head golf
pro for the next 40 years, and was one of the most respected golf pros in the region.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Director of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management Tom Ashe will join the to kick off the 52nd annual Henry Bontempo Four Ball Golf Tournament which takes place annually on Labor Day Weekend.
The Henry Bontempo tournament was held for the first time
in 1974 and continues to this day. Last year, over 140 golfers took part in the four-day event. Last year’s Henry Bontempo FourBall Champions were Sean Kavanaugh and Mickey Foley. This year, the 2026 Bontempo Tournament begins Thursday, Sept. 4, and concludes on Monday, Sept. 7. Friday’s qualifying round is an 18-hole better ball format. Learn about the FourBall tournament format and how
to register you and your partner here: golfgenius.com/pages/12692358346078951358.
The Bontempo Four-Ball tournament is considered the premier golfing event in Western Massachusetts.
“This longstanding tournament brings out a great group of golfers and serves to honor the legacy of one of Springfield’s golf history greats,” shared Mayor Sarno. “Thank you and shout to Joe Phillips for resurrecting the importance of the tradition and history of the Bontempo Tournament. I’d also like to thank PBRM Director Tom Ashe and team with Franconia Golf Course Manager Steve Carle and Greens Superintendent Anthony Kowal and the entire staff — don’t these courses look great!? It is no surprise that Franconia was honored this year with the Walter Lowell Public Golf Course Distinguished Service Award by the Connecticut Section PGA. I am so proud of our parks and golf
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the Springfield Union News.”
Neal continued, “Over the years, I thoroughly enjoyed our frequent visits, both in Springfield and in Washington, D.C., I could always count on him for his thoughtful perspective, never allowing any bitterness or cynicism to define the moment. My
crews who keep both our Franconia and Veterans Golf Courses so welcoming and beautifully maintained. This year marks 52nd anniversary of the longstanding, prestigious Henry Bontempo golf tournament, which honors former golf pro Henry Bontempo for a four-ball style tournament over Labor Day Weekend, and we hope to you there.” Franconia Golf Course was built in 1929 by the city of Springfield, originally as a ninehole course, and in 1931, another nine holes were added by city officials. Visit the city’s municipal course website for more information about Springfield’s Franconia and Veterans Memorial golf courses. Register now for the 2026 52nd annual Henry Bontempo Four Ball Tournament. Space is limited. First come, first served. Registration link: golfgenius.com/pages/12692358346078951358
thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and all those who were touched by Ben’s lifetime of service.”
Sarno described Swan as “my dear friend” and “a true gentleman and a man of his word. I always appreciated his and his family’s friendship and support over the years.” He ended his statement by saying, “May God rest your soul, Ben, for a job well done.”
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CIVICS ON DISPLAY — The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education hosted a civics project exhibition at Springfield’s Mass Mutual Center on May 26, one of four such events happening around the state. Hundreds of students, representing schools from around Western Massachusetts, conducted research, created display boards and presented their findings about issues they identified in and around their communities. DESE Commissioner Pedro Martinez was among the judges at the event. On one side of the ballroom, Exalianni Resto presented her civics project on what she described as the failure of the American justice system regarding the Jeffrey Epstein case. Across the room, Sophia Bourdon, Libby Amstein and Grace Stevens explained their project on how to build community for older people.
SPS to open day school for students with autism
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Public Schools is planning to open a day school for high needs exceptional learners in fall 2026. The day school, to be in the Chestnut Middle School, will offer families the option to have their children educated in a setting dedicated to their needs.
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Executive Editor: Chris Maza
Managing Editors: Dennis Hackett, Ryan Feyre
Staff Writers: Sarah Heinonen, Deb Gardner, Amy Porter, Trent Levakis, Cliff Clark, Tyler Garnet, Peter Tuohy
Graphic Design Manager: Beth Thurber
Graphic Design Department: Leigh Catchepaugh, Lorie Perry, Sophia McClellan, Susan Bartlett, Jim Johnson-Corwin, Molly Arnio
Sales Manager: Scott Greene
Account Executives: Matt Mahaney, Paula Dimauro, Lisa Nolan, Jeanette Grenier, Paul Poutre, Andy Shaw, Laura Tassistro
Classified Account Managers: Roxanne Miller-Longtin, Evan Marcyoniak, Shannon Spada
Sales Support: Carolyn Napolitan
Financial Department: Nancy Banning
Circulation Department: Nate Halla, Holly Mulligan, Whitney Conlon
Over the past 12 years, enrollment levels among exceptional learners with individualized learning plans have increased by 37%, said Chief of Exceptional Learning and Related Services Marisa McCarthy. Specifically, the enrollment among students diagnosed with autism has risen by 353%. In each of the past five years, the School Department has created more substantially separate classrooms that use LINKS curriculum for students with autism, with a current total of 144 citywide. LINKS is part of the “highly specialized... highly structured” programming that high needs students with autism require.
The schools are running out of space to open more of these classrooms, McCarthy said, and there is a waitlist for out-of-district placements. She said that a day school will better accommodate the large population of students requiring specialized curriculum and instruction. The resources can be focused on a single location, rather than spread across the buildings, and teachers will not need to travel from school to school. And many students who currently travel to costly out-of-
district placements may be able to return to the city’s school system.
This year, there are 78 LINKS classrooms for students in elementary school. Pre-K students are spread across 28 LINKS classrooms, while 24 middle school and 14 high school classrooms use the curriculum.
School Committee member Denise Hurst asked if there were so few classrooms at the high school level because students are transitioning into integrated classes. But McCarthy said the growth in students with IEPs for autism has been seen among the younger grades and as that cohort ages, the number of dedicated classrooms in secondary school will increase.
Instruction at the day school will adhere to student IEPs and the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. The program will address students’ academic, social and behavioral needs. Educators will use applied behavior analysis, structured routines, visual supports and assistive technology.
While the immediate need at the K-12 day school is 19 classrooms, the school is designed to accommodate up to 200 students, or about 34 classrooms. Eligibility to attend the school will depend on a comprehensive evaluation. McCarthy said no students will be forced to attend the day school and the city’s other schools will maintain their programs with appropriately licensed special education staff. “We will still have very intensive programs within our other schools,” she said.
School Committee member
In the 2013 school year, there were 154 students in classrooms using LINKS curriculum for autism. By the 2025 school year, that number ballooned to 698, far surpassing enrollment in other exceptional learner programs.
Gumersindo Gomez asked about what obstacles may need to be overcome before the school is operational. McCarthy said staffing is the largest hurdle. Some existing staff will be consolidated to day school, and the posted positions have received more interest than similar positions in recent years, she said. However, ensuring there are enough qualified educators remains “one of the biggest challenges.”
Gomez suggested the School Department create a pipeline for training as registered behavioral technicians and board-certified behavior analysts. School Committee member LaTonia Monroe Naylor added that families of students with special needs
are often “super engaged” and have a level of expertise. McCarthy agreed and said her team is working to encourage people to consider a career path in autistic programming.
Monroe Naylor asked McCarthy how the School Department is getting information about the day school to families. Families of high needs pre-K students are being invited to have an information session to answer whatever questions they may have. McCarthy said a mock classroom will be set up, so families will have a better understanding of what the program will look like in action. A virtual information session will also be available for those who cannot attend in person.
HCC honors students for 2025-2026 achievements
HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College is proud to celebrate the students who earned honors and awards for their outstanding
achievements during the 20252026 academic year. Awardees were honored on May 20 during a ceremony in the Bartley Center for Athletics and Recreation. Below is a list of HCC honorees and award recipients for the 2025-2026 academic year. Some students received multiple awards.
A full list of students along with their specific honors and awards can be found at hcc. edu/awards-2026
HCC honors and awards for 2025-2026:
Indian Orchard
Amanda Montalban.
Springfield Hajar Bint Farooq Carter, Arianna Dávila, Alexandria Davis, Natalie Denoronha, Julius Dixon, Virginia Futrell, Dominic Garcia-Gonzalez, Jessica Heredia (two awards), Corinthia Higgins, Mariia Konokhovych, Natalie Mangan, Camrin Meyer, Noah Mulcahy, Ilayshia Negron (two awards), Shereene Robinson, Christian Rodriguez, Ninoshka Tirado Davila, Sarom Toum-Rivera, Delphi Willingham.
Photo credit: Focus Springfield
Reminder Publishing photos by Sarah Heinonen
Springfield honors its fallen military members for Memorial Day
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — A massive American flag, tied aloft on the ladders of two fire trucks, flapped in the wind over the steps of Springfield City Hall for the Memorial Day ceremony on May 22. In front of it, city, state and national officials stood at a podium to address the dozens of people gathered.
“No one can match the freedoms that we have in the United States,” declared Veterans Services Director Joseph DeCaro. Mayor Domenic Sarno, who stepped to the microphone to present a proclamation from the city, echoed DeCaro’s sentiment, saying, “America is a beacon of hope, strength.”
Alongside Sarno and DeCaro, stood U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, U.S. Sen Ed Markey’s Regional Director Jesse Lederman, state Sens. Adam Gomez and Jake Oliveira, state Reps. Carlos Gonzalez, Orlando Ramos and Brian Ashe, Ward 7 City Councilor Gerry Martin, Ward 8 City Councilor Zaida Govan, School Committee member Ayanna Crawford and Fire Commissioner BJ Calvi and Rev. Donald Luster of Bethel AME Church in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
Memorial Day is set aside to remember members of the military who died in service to the country. Neal said Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it was when Confederate widows laid flowers on the graves of their loved ones. After the war, the practice was adopted by people across the country and has been ob-
served since 1868.
Neal quoted Lincoln, who called for unification during his second inaugural address, saying, “With malice toward none, and with charity for all.” Lincoln’s words signaled that all would be forgiven after the war, no matter which side people fought for, Neal said, adding, “We can never be divided on Memorial Day.”
Neal, who was once Springfield’s mayor, said, “This city, like every city in America, offered up its greatest.”
Health and Human Services Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris told the crowd that she wanted to honor the women killed in combat. She said 3 million women have served since the American Revolution. “Think about the women, think about the families, think about each other,” she said.
Sarno spoke about the impact felt by the families of people who never came back from serving in the military. “That chair at the kitchen table is empty at the holidays. It’s empty every day,” he said.
“We got liberties, but it took thousands of men and women to give us that right, to give us
that freedom,” Sgt. Gumersindo Gomez, Sr., executive director of Bilingual Veterans Outreach Centers of Mass Inc. said. Tearing up, he recalled friends he served with who were there one day and gone the next. He said they had no idea it would be their last day. Commenting on the way people celebrate Memorial Day with cookouts and gatherings, rather than remembering peo-
ple, Gomez said, “We celebrate this weekend and we have joy ... not even realizing who gave us that right.” He wiped tears from his eyes as he stepped away from the podium.
Dignitaries carried wreaths across the street and laid one at each of the memorials the city has erected to honor war veterans, from World War I to World War II, the Korean War and the
Vietnam War. DeCaro said money is being raised to fund a memorial to those lost in the Global War on Terror. After taking a moment to salute at each memorial, the crowd silently listened to the sound of a lone bugle as Springfield Police Officer Richard McNabb sounded taps and the Springfield Police fired a three-volley salute.
Every week we will provide you with a complete listings of deaths from the preceding week from throughout Greater Springfield. We are doing this as a convenience to our readers in case you miss an obit in the daily paper. We hope you find this useful and that you will refer to it weekly.
CHICOPEE
Gerald F. Forcier
Michael J. Gaunt
Alice M. Kovitch
Jeannine M. Martell
Leshia A. O’Neill-Wolcott
John C. Sullivan
Francis J. Stasiowski
John S. Strom Jr.
Chester P. Strzepa
EAST LONGMEADOW
Richard A. Caney
Sandra Quadrozzi
James John Zarlengo
Joan M. Butler
HOLYOKE
Theresa Asselin
Ann Marie Flynn
Mark S. Scagliarini
Leon B. Shippee Jr.
Carmen M. Zayas
LONGMEADOW
Kenneth Norman Kinsley
Peter Richard Kranz
Joseph G. Maruca
Pauline L. Sample
Elizabeth A. Tyson
LUDLOW
Belmira N. Clemente
Wade E. Lamberton
Linda May Veratti
Karen A. Wytas
Helen J. Ziencina-Slicer (Sroka)
SOUTH HADLEY
Phyllis A. Babula
Noreen Klekotka
Jerome “Jerry” Myers
SPRINGFIELD
Mary C. Collins
Gwendolyn McNeill
Barbara J. Murphy
Allan Gordon Peck
Carter Lee Powell
George E. Sampson
Joseph T. Sanky
Cynthia M. Soja
Judith E. Vecchiarelli
Dwayne Yearby
Top row, from left: Gumersindo Gomez Sr., executive director of Bilingual Veterans Outreach Centers of Mass Inc., speaks at the Memorial Day ceremony. A battle cross stands in front of a podium and memorial wreaths. Bottom row, from left: U.S. Rep. Richard Neal speaks about the origins of Memorial Day. Springfield Police Officer Richard McNabb sounds taps on a bugle. A wreath is laid in front of Springfield’s Korean War memorial.
Reminder Publishing photos by Sarah Heinonen
POPE FRANCIS VS AMHERST REGIONAL
The Pope Francis Preparatory School Boys Lacrosse team captured the Class B PVIAC Championship with a 7-6 victory over Amherst Regional High School on May 23, at Springfield Central High School.
REMINDER SPORTS P HOTOS TAKEN BY DAVID HOSMER
Pope Francis Jovan Eck runs past his defender at midfield
Pope Francis #13 Mason Thayer and #8 Declan White celebrate after a goal.
Pope Francis #14 Jon Kowalski hits his opponent, causing a turnover.
Pope Francis Vincent Sleeper wins a faceoff.
Pope Francis players and coaches celebrate with the Class B Western Mass Championship trophy.
Pope Francis #13 Mason Thayer runs around the goal as he tries to score.
Mason Gautreau pushes the ball up field.
Pope Francis players celebrate together after a victory over Amherst.
Pope Francis Jon Kowalski hits his defender, causing a turnover.
Pope Francis Matt Walsh stares down his attacker before a play.
Pope Francis Boston Lauziere runs past his defender.
Pope Francis Mason Gautreau defends an Amherst Attacker.
DINING ENTERTAINMENT
Symphony Orchestra announces free Juneteenth celebrations
By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD — On June 19, the walls of Tower Square will reverberate with the sounds of the Juneteenth Freedom Concert and celebrations scheduled throughout the afternoon. The concert will feature Springfield’s own Grammy award-winning jazz bassist Avery Sharpe and the Extended Family Choir.
Juneteenth, a federal and state holiday, commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops under Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, to deliver news to the last community of enslaved people that they were free under the Emancipation Proclamation.
The Juneteenth celebrations will begin on June 18 at 5:30 p.m., when there will be live music at White Lion Brewing Company. A portion of the proceeds of this Juneteenth kick-off party will benefit Springfield Symphony
SPRINGFIELD — Downtown
Springfield is turning up the energy this summer with the launch of its “Spend Summer Downtown” campaign — a season-long celebration of community, culture, local business and unforgettable experiences in the city center. Presented by the Springfield Business Improvement District, the campaign brings together a diverse lineup of signature events and weekly programming designed to activate downtown spaces, support local businesses, and give res-
Youth Orchestras programming.
At 11 a.m. on June 19, Mayor Domenic Sarno and State Rep. Bud Williams will conduct the annual Juneteenth flag raising on the steps of City Hall. Moving to Tower Square, at 12:30 p.m., School Committee member Ayanna Crawford will be the mistress of ceremonies for the Juneteenth program of events.
The Springfield Prep Dance Team will perform and the inaugural Juneteenth Innovation Panel will take place. Small business vendors will be set up in Tower Square throughout the afternoon’s events.
The concert is scheduled for 3 p.m. The Avery Sharpe Quintet and a quartet of strings will play, while vocals are to be provided by the Extended Family Choir and the Springfield Symphony Chorus.
“I love collaborations because that is what America is about or supposed to be about,” said Avery. Sarno later said, “Avery has
idents and visitors more reasons than ever to explore Springfield all summer long. From outdoor wellness classes and public art to local markets, craft beer festivals and family-friendly programming, downtown Springfield will serve as a hub for connection, creativity and entertainment throughout the season.
“Downtown Springfield is full of momentum right now,” said Samantha Savoie, marketing and creative services director for the Springfield Business Improvement
never forgotten his home here.”
The concert will be conducted by Kevin Sharpe, Avery’s brother, who has been the Extended Family Choir’s director since its inception in 1996. “It is great to collaborate with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra,” he said. The program’s music will include Lift Every Voice and Sing — widely considered the African American nation anthem — three pieces by Florence Price, African American spirituals, Avery compositions and choral works. Kevin said, “It’s sounding good. It’s going to be a great program. I’m looking forward to it.”
The free concert is organized in partnership with White Lion Brewing Company owner Raymond Berry Jr. and Payton Shubrick, owner of 6 Bricks dispensary. Sarno said Berry and Shubrick have been “good corporate citizens... they always step up.”
While the spirit will be one of celebration, there will also be memorials for Rosemary “Tra-
District. “This summer is all about creating experiences that bring people together, support our local businesses and remind people that there is always something happening downtown. Whether you’re coming for yoga, grabbing lunch at the farmers market, bringing your kids to art programming or attending a major event like Worthy BrewFest, we want people to spend their summer here.”
Summer programming highlights include: Dine Springfield Restaurant
cy” Woods, founding director of “Art for the Soul Gallery,” and the late Ruby Maddox, co-founder of Gardening the Community and Direct Your Purpose. State Rep. Benjamin Swan and Henry Thomas, III, a longtime leader of the Springfield Urban League, who both died on May 25 will also be remembered. Sarno said he first learned about Juneteenth several years ago from then-state Rep. Raymond Jordan and community leader Robert “Cee” Jackson. Since then, he said, state Rep. Bud Williams “shepherded through the Juneteenth legislation in the statehouse.” More than a day off, Sarno said, “It’s more important that it is recognized, and the story of history is told.” Williams said, “Black people have always celebrated Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, Juneteenth Day, you call it what you want to call it. We’ve always celebrated it.” He said Springfield has changed since he was a child,
Week, presented by Peoples Bank — Summer in downtown Springfield also means patio season, outdoor dining and the return of Dine Springfield Restaurant Week, June 5-14. This citywide culinary celebration invites diners to explore participating restaurants, discover new favorites and support local businesses through special menus, featured dishes, and unique dining experiences.
• Downtown Springfield Farmers Market, presented by Country Bank — Starting Friday, June 5 and happening every Friday throughout the summer, the Downtown Springfield Farmers Market will feature fresh produce, baked goods, artisan vendors, food trucks, live music and community organizations throughout the summer season. The market continues to serve as a vibrant lunchtime and community gathering destination in the heart of downtown.
• Worthy BrewFest, presented by Beacon Bank — One of Springfield’s most anticipated summer events, Worthy BrewFest returns with craft breweries, live music, food vendors, games and entertainment. The beloved festival celebrates craft brew culture while bringing thousands of attendees downtown for an unforgettable experience.
when it was “very segregated, very racist.” Now, he noted, the city has a Black superintendent of schools in Sonia Dinnall and Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers is the city’s first Black individual to hold that position. Referring to the symphony, Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra said, “This industry is struggling right now. This country is struggling a bit right now. What we can do is bring joy back into the world. We can bring it through music. We can bring it through partnership. We can bring it through collaboration. We bring joy to the world by keeping alive the history, celebrating tradition and also exploring everything that’s new out there.” She said, “We’re so lucky to call Springfield our home.” Sarno declared, “Plenty of good things are happening in Springfield and you’re all a part of it.”
• Art on Market Street, in partnership with the Springfield Cultural District — A free, family-friendly creative program, Art on Market Street encourages children and families to explore hands-on art activities in downtown Springfield. The drop-in program is designed to make arts programming accessible, interactive and fun for all ages. White Lion Wednesdays Lunchtime Music Series — Downtown Springfield’s summer soundtrack continues with lunchtime music at White Lion Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. These live music experiences invite residents, employees and visitors to enjoy local entertainment, connect with the community and add a little energy to the workday and midweek routine.
• Throughout the season, downtown Springfield will also host and support live music performances, pop-up events, outdoor gatherings, dining experiences, public art activations and collaborative programming with local businesses and community partners.
• The “Spend Summer Downtown” campaign aims to showcase the continued growth and vibrancy of downtown Springfield while encouraging residents and visitors to rediscover the city’s restaurants, attractions, parks and entertainment venues.
• For a full calendar of events and updates, visit Springfield downtown and follow @springfielddowntown on Instagram.
• Yoga on the Landing, presented by Baystate Health — This free outdoor wellness series invites participants of all experience levels to enjoy yoga classes at The Landing. Led by local instructor, Christina Lam, the program combines fitness, mindfulness and scenic downtown views in a unique and welcoming environment.
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.
161 Papers: Burbank Rd., Farmington Rd., Ellington Rd., Oakwood Rd., Partial-Converse St.
174 Papers: Orchard Rd., Pine Grove Cir., Partial-Parker St., Porter Rd., Allen St.
207 Papers: Dover Rd., Birchwood Ave., Benedict Ter., Roseland Ter., Colony Rd.
62 Papers: Magnolia Cir., Primrose Dr., Merriweather Dr., Vanguard Ln., Ridge Rd.
229 Papers: Blueberry Hill Rd., Concord Rd., Green Willow Dr., Tanglewood Dr., Redfern Dr. 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.,
