SPA-20260115

JANUARY 15, 2025 | FREE

IN THIS

EDITION

‘Diverse’ School Committee welcomes members

The Springfield School Committee welcomed three new members at its swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 5.

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Forest Park Zoo seeks donations to care for animals

The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center offers people in the greater Springfield area a chance to visit and learn about animals they may not otherwise ever encounter. But caring for those animals is a costly endeavor, particularly in the cold months of winter.

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City Council elects Tracye Whitfield as first Black woman president

The City of Firsts again earned its moniker on Jan. 5 when the City Council elected Tracye Whitfield to serve as its president, the first Black woman to do so.

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Springfield to pay $14.8 million in child sex abuse suit

By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — The city of Springfield has reached a settlement with the families of two children in two civil suits stemming from 2023 criminal child sex abuse charges against Robert Gayle, a then-social studies teacher at STEM Middle Academy in Springfield.

While three victims have been identified in the criminal case against Gayle, Robert DiTusa, a partner at Alekman DiTusa, and Alexander Sneirson of Sneirson Law Firm represented two of them in the civil case. The criminal case against Gayle is ongoing.

The civil suits were filed in February 2025 against Gayle, the city, former Principal Luis Martinez and then-interim Principal Rhonda Jacobs. The latter three defendants were accused of negligence in not keeping the students safe, despite reports of inappropriate behavior from students, families and teachers.

The city of Springfield has agreed to pay $1.8 million to the family of one of the children and $13 million to the other family. The larger of the two settlements is the largest child sexual abuse settlement in the state’s history.

“These amounts reflect the harm done to the two children and their families, and they are also a testament to the strength of the survivors and their families, who had the bravery to speak out, seek justice and demand accountability,” said DiTusa.

Gayle was arrested in March 2023 when and charged with aggravated statutory rape of a child, indecent assault and battery of a person 14 or older. He has since also been charged with aggravated indecent assault and battery of a person under the age of 14. The

assaults allegedly took place between 2021 and 2023.

Springfield City Solicitor Steve Buoniconti acknowledged the settlement in an email. He stated, “The negotiated settlements took into account the facts of the cases, the alleged harm perpetrated on the victims and the liability the city would face at trial. Families across the city entrust the school system to provide a safe environment for their children to learn and grow, and that obligation remains a central focus.”

DiTusa declared, “Every child has a right to be safe at school. The city of Springfield categorically failed in its responsibility to keep these children safe.” He said, “Child sexual abuse is an epidemic in our country. It is a serious public health crisis. Whether we’re talking about the Boy Scouts, the Catholic church, our schools or even a summer camp, it remains a consistent issue in our communi-

ties and in our institutions. It’s one that’s often shrouded in silence, in secrecy, in disbelief.”

Laura Mangini, of Alekman DiTusa said, in this case, there were “clear warning signs” and that the school system “ignored complaints from the students, they ignored complaints from teachers and staff and they ignored complaints from the parents, themselves.” She said Gayle had been reported by another teacher two years prior to his arrest for giving a student rides home. A different teacher reported him for allowing students to “hang out with him in his classroom.” Meanwhile, Mangini said, “multiple female students” told school councilors that Gayle was “creepy,” and that they were uncomfortable and needed help. She said they and their parents’ complaints were disbelieved. Mangini said the hope was that there would be “real reform” be-

yond new policies, training sessions with enforcement and “real strategies that put our children first.” In his email, Buoniconti said, “The School Department has invested significantly in programming and training so that all staff members are more educated on the signs of improper relationships between staff and students and report those concerns to the proper authorities right away, all in the effort of preventing future harm to students.”

DiTusa shared statistics about child sexual abuse, which occurs every nine minutes in the United States. He said 1-in-5 girls and 1-in-20 boys are sexually assaulted and 90% of them know their perpetrator. Victims are four times more likely to experience post-traumatic stress disorder, four times more likely to abuse drugs and three times more likely to experience depression in adulthood.

Toy for Joy campaign rides late surge to strong finish

By Ron Chimelis Special to Reminder Publishing

A late surge of generosity gave a strong finishing kick to the 103rd edition of the Toy for Joy Christmas campaign.

Thanks to the heartfelt donations of local and regional citizens, businesses and organizations, the 2025 drive brought in $94,317. Under the guidance of first-year Captain Stacy McNeil, and backed by Salvation Army social services manager Danielle LaTaille and dozens of invaluable volunteers, the total rallied in the final weeks.

“Wow, what an incredible show of generosity by the community in support of Toy for Joy. We are so deeply grateful for all of your contributions. We couldn’t have done it without you,” McNeil said.

The Salvation Army sponsors the campaign. McNeil was moved by how many people participated, allowing Toy for Joy to maintain its place as a standard bearer for charitable giving in Western Massachusetts.

Families and children were served at Salvation Army Citadels in Springfield, Holyoke and Greenfield. In Springfield alone,

more than 1,600 families and 4,300 children experienced the joy of Christmas gifts through Toy for Joy.

In the final days of the drive, many generous donors helped raise the final total. Always a set of loyal contributors, the Pathfinder Regional School of Three Rivers School Committee joined with Superintendent Eric Duda to donate $235.

Matching donations from The Republican employees totalled $2,350.

From the law offices of Mark E. Salamone came $972. Lia Toyota answered the children’s

need in a huge way with $2,500, as did Connecticut Valley Artesian Well with $1,000. Robert and Roberta Bolduc continued their leadership in charitable giving with $2,500. Joseph O’Brien gave $1,000, with Caroline Gruszka ($250), and a $300 donation was given in memory of Michael J. Farrell, “Mugsy” Silansky and Paul “Sammy” Samble. Not to be overlooked were the hundreds and even thousands of dollars given anonymously, or the donations of any size by citizens who were determined to do their part in making this a Merry

Christmas for the children. Plans are already being discussed for the 104th edition of Toy for Joy, which will roll out in the fall of 2026. The Salvation Army, volunteers who helped the cause and sponsoring media (The Republican, Reminder Publishing, MassLive and El Pueblo Latino.). All of those involved have deep and profound gratitude for those who participated to make so many children happy at Christmas, and look forward to the 2026 Toy for Joy campaign next fall.

Oliveira sees affordability as the state’s main challenge in 2026

By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com

This is the second year of the 2025-2026 legislative session. Typically, the first year of the session sees a flurry of activity, with about 7,000 bills filed. State Sen. Jake Oliveira filed more than 700 bills himself in 2025. In the latter half of the session, though, the bills work their way through committee and will, ideally, be taken up on the floor of the Senate. Many of those bills will address one major issue with several heads. Like the hydra of Greek mythology, the monster that is affordability must be attacked from multiple angles.

Oliveira explained that utility costs are “crippling” seniors and those on fixed incomes. When it comes to electricity, he said, “Delivery charges frustrate me, frustrate my constituents. They’re higher sometimes than the supply cost.” Delivery charges are the set fees utilities charge to use their wires and poles to carry electricity to customers. In most municipalities, one utility owns most of the infrastructure, forcing people to pay their delivery charges. It does not have to be that way, though. He said cities and towns with a municipally owned utility, like Chicopee,

charge nearly half the distribution fee of Eversource. He said the state Department of Public Utilities is investigating why delivery costs are so high.

“People shouldn’t have to choose between paying for electricity and buying groceries, or paying a bill or buying medicine,” Oliveira said.

Another issue Oliveira is working on is the housing crisis. Despite the 2024 passage of the Affordable Homes Act, a fiveyear housing bond bill, people are still being priced out of the housing market.

“I’m a big fan of mixed-use housing,” Oliveira said, referring to buildings that contain a combination of housing units, offices, restaurants and shops. Redeveloping vacant buildings from the state’s industrial past lends itself to such uses. He cited the mixeduse redevelopment of the Ludlow Mills in his hometown. The housing there is age-restricted for seniors.

“We need to end a lot of these age caps,” Oliveira said. This would allow more young and middle-aged people who are currently priced out of homeownership to buy units in housing developments. “Springfield used to be the City of Homes,” he said. “Now, it’s a city of renters. A lot

restrictions on municipalities. Chapter “40B has been on the books for decades. It just wasn’t enforced,” he said of a law setting a threshold of 10% affordable housing in each municipality. He said the Legislature tried to partner with each of the state’s 351 municipalities to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. “There needs to be a balance and a recognition that residents in Massachusetts can’t afford to buy houses. A lot of young people are leaving, and when you ask why, they say it’s because its unaffordable.”

which encompasses towns from Warren to South Hadley and from Belchertown to the Connecticut line. He also represents parts of Chicopee and Springfield, the latter of which is home to Baystate Health and Mercy Medical Center. Cuts to health care will have significant repercussions on the economy and jobs in Western Massachusetts, he said.

of that goes to affordability.”

Not everyone is sold on state-initiated housing changes. Since the Affordable Homes Act was passed, many municipalities have expressed concern and frustration that the state is mandating housing changes, such as allowing accessory dwelling units and affordable housing. Oliveira rejects the assertion that the Affordable Homes Act is forcing new

Then, there is the issue of healthcare. The passage of the federal One Big Beautiful Bill, which Oliveira called the “Big Ugly Bill,” changed health and tax credits. Some of Oliveira’s constituents are going to pay “tens of thousands” of dollars more this month than they did in 2025. He said it is most harmful to those people who are retired but not yet old enough to qualify for Medicare.

The state and municipalities are seeing 10% annual increases in health care costs, while tax revenue typically increases by just 3% each year. Healthcare is “crowding out” other government programs and initiatives, he said.

Healthcare is also the largest employer in Oliveira’s district,

Oliveira said that part of the problem is a lack of medical professionals licensed in Massachusetts. Legislation that he filed allowing physician assistants licensed in other states to work in Massachusetts is in committee. Supply is only one aspect of the issue, though. Pharmaceutical benefit managers work as intermediaries between insurance companies and pharmacies, managing drug prices. Oliveira said those intermediaries — the three largest of whom are Optum RX, CVS Caremark and Express Scripts — are profitable and drive up prices. In 2024, the state Legislature passed licensing requirements for pharmaceutical benefit managers.

The healthcare issue, like housing, requires an “all-handson-deck” approach, but “unless the federal government is a partner,” Oliveira said the situation will not improve.

Challengers allege fraud in signature collection for marijuana repeal

By Katie Castellani and Ella Adams State House News Service

BOSTON — The proposed ballot initiative to repeal adult-use

recreational marijuana faces a new challenge. Challengers of the proposal filed an objection Jan. 2 with Secretary of State William Galvin’s office. The State Ballot

Law Commission planned to hold a pre-hearing conference on the objection Jan. 12 and a hearing Jan. 13.

The objection is centered around concerns about how

CARRIERS WANTED

EAST LONGMEADOW - HOOK DELIVERY THURSDAY

144 Papers: St. Joseph Dr., Wisteria Ln., Tracey Ln., Pembroke Terr., Abbey Ln., Rockingham Cir., Dartmouth Ln., Partial - Prospect St., Chestnut St., Somers Rd.

129 Papers: Gerrard Ave., Holy Cross Cir., Kingston Ave., Lombard Ave., Mereline Ave., Nelson St., Roderick Ave., Partial- N. Main St.

45 Papers: Partial-Allen Street

166 Papers:  Braeburn Rd., Channing Rd., Tufts St., Van Dyke Rd., Wood Ave., Boulder St., Villanova St., Admiral St., Thompson St., Partial-Dwight Rd. (odd side only)

LONGMEADOW

- HOOK DELIVERY

THURSDAY

83 Papers: Williamsburg Dr., Eunice Dr., Tabor Crossing, Morgan Ridge, Burns Meadow, Churchill Dr., Partial - Converse St.

84 Papers: Chandler Ave., Partial - Longmeadow St.

109 Papers: Birnie Rd., Brookside Dr., Crescent Rd., Longview Dr., Fairhill Dr., Partial - Longmeadow St.

54 Papers: Bliss Rd.

87 Papers: Andover Rd., Ashford Rd., Cranwell Ln., Deerfield Ave., Willow Cir., Williston Dr., Willow Brook Rd., Partial - Frank Smith Rd.

157 Papers: Albemarle Rd., Arcadia St., Barclay St., Chiswick St., Fairway Dr., Franklin Rd., Lincoln Pk. & Rd., Whitmun Rd., Woodmont Rd., Hillside Ter.

96 Papers: Brookwood Dr., Kenmore Dr., Knollwood Dr., Partial - Shaker Rd.

99 Papers: Barbara Ln., Quinnehtuk Rd., Village Dr., Pioneer Dr., Partial - Maple Rd., Frank Smith Rd., Wolf Swamp Rd.

100 Papers: Norway St., Nevins Ave., Partial - Maple Rd.

WILBRAHAM - HOOK DELIVERY THURSDAY

35 Papers: Arbor Ln., Greenwood Rd., Oak Ridge Dr., Old Orchard Rd., Russell Rd.

61 Papers: Gary Dr., Pidgeon Dr., Raymond Dr., Ruth Dr., Sawmill Dr.

228 Papers: Echo Hill Rd., Highmoor Dr., Meeting House Ln., Rice Dr., Ridge Rd., Highridge Rd., Hitching Post Ln., Peak Rd., Webster Ln., Partial - Mountain Rd., Monson Rd., Tinkham Rd., Main St.

signatures in support of the proposed ballot initiative were collected, Thomas Kiley, an attorney leading the challenge, told the News Service.

“Paid signature gatherers at Trader Joe’s in Hanover, Market Basket facilities in Plymouth, Whole Foods in Weymouth and in parking lots around Gillette Stadium in Foxborough have misled voters with respect to what they were signing and thus obtained signatures fraudulently,” the objection states.

“Among the misleading statements were assertions that the law proposed on the petition blanks they were signing would get fentanyl off the streets, provide affordable housing in their communities or fund public parks,” according to the objection. “Each of these assertions would be apt with respect to one or more of the other initiative petitions approved by the attorney general, but have nothing to do with Initiative Petition 1E.”

The objection asserts paid signature gatherers often gave only the backside of the petition to voters whose signatures they obtained. The backside doesn’t bear the summary of the proposed law, the objection adds.

Wendy Wakeman, chair of the ballot committee backing the ballot proposal, stood firm behind the signature gathering, saying they were “collected with integrity” and by trained professional signature gatherers.

“We stand by the number,” Wakeman said. The state elections division certified 78,301 signatures for the petition in December. The petition needed at least 74,574 certified signatures to proceed in the process.

Wakeman said opponents to the ballot proposal have raised concerns about signature collections for months and said that it is predictable that they would issue an objection.

She is confident the proposal will stay on track to the 2026 ballot.

Galvin addressed the objection on Jan. 6, as his office delivered boxes of ballot questions to the State House.

“The objectors are based on the people who now are in retail cannabis businesses,” Galvin said. “They’ve got to come up with enough signatures knocked off to disqualify the petition. It has to be based on evidence, it can’t be assertions. So it’s going to be a challenge.”

“You’re talking tens of thousands of signatures, to come up with enough that are going to be disqualified in a short period of time, because the Ballot Law Commission is time limited, 10 days, I think. So good luck. I hope they have a nice time,” Galvin added.

Katie Castellani and Ella Adams are reporters for the State House News Service and State Affairs Massachusetts. Reach them at kcastellani@statehousenews.com and ella.adams@statehousenews.com.

‘Diverse’ School Committee welcomes members

By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield School Committee welcomed three new members at its swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 5. City Clerk Gladys Oyola-Lopez swore in Ayanna Crawford, Rosa Valentin and Gumersindo Gomez Jr., along with veteran committee members LaTonia Monroe Naylor, Barbara Gresham and Denise Hurst at the committee’s organizational meeting.

“For me, this is a big accomplishment,” Valentin said. A recently retired educator, she said she will be a voice for students and families. “My heart is in the Springfield Public Schools.”

Referencing the makeup of this year’s City Council and School Committee, Crawford said she was “elated” that the city’s governing bodies reflect such diversity. “I, too, understand the struggles that affect all of us, she said. While she thanked those who voted for her, she emphasized that she will serve on behalf of everyone in District 4. Vietnam Veterans of America Minority Affairs National Chair Gumersindo Gomez cried as his son spoke from the dais. Gomez Jr. addressed his constituents, saying, “This is not my seat. This is your seat. I will speak when your voices are ignored, and I will listen when you need to be heard.”

Listening to his brother from the audience, state Sen. Adam Gomez quipped, “Well, I can step down.”

Hurst congratulated City Council President Tracye Whitfield, who had been sworn in as the city’s first Black woman council president hours earlier.

Noting the crowd that flowed out of the chamber and into the hallway, she urged people to continue to be engaged and informed. “These chambers don’t need to be filled just on inauguration day. They should be filled every time there is an open meeting,” she said.

The School Committee is “just as important as any other office,” Hurst said. Echoing Crawford’s remarks, she said, “I’m so excited to be sitting up here with these beautiful Black and brown faces.” Aside from the School Committee chair, Mayor Domenic Sarno, the body is composed of six Black and Latino members, five of which are women. Gresham agreed with Hurst, saying “It’s a wonderful day in the city.”

Superintendent Sonia Din-

nall teared up and said that she was “very humbled.” Growing up in Mason Square, “I never thought I’d be sitting here today.” She added, “Springfield Public Schools, you are in for a treat,” she said, adding, that the schools would have “the best and the brightest making decisions on your behalf.”

Monroe Naylor, who was unanimously selected to serve as vice chair of the committee, briefly alluded to a 2024 controversy that forced the resignation of then-Superintendent Daniel Warwick after he shared a recording of himself disparaging Monroe Naylor.

“Through the grind comes the diamond,” she said.

The committee began the year by changing the name of the Vo-

cational Education Subcommittee to Career Technical Education Subcommittee and adjusting policy language to reflect the name change.

The committee also established an Innovation School Special Subcommittee, chaired by Valentin, to support the transition of seven schools from the Springfield Empowerment Zone Program back into the wider Springfield Public Schools district during the 2026-27 school year. SZEP is a nonprofit partnership between Springfield Public Schools, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Springfield Education Association teachers’ union, which works to improve chronically underperforming schools.

Forest Park Zoo seeks donations to care for animals

By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — Exotic birds, camels, bison and alligators. The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center offers people in the greater Springfield area a chance to visit and learn about animals they may not otherwise ever encounter. But caring for those animals is a costly endeavor, particularly in the cold months of winter.

“We get asked a lot by people out in the public, ‘what can they do?’” said Executive Director Sarah Tsitso.

While the zoo is closed to the

public from early November to late March, Tsitso said, “Animals still need things 365 days a year.” The zoo leaves its Amazon wish list active all year, so people can donate at any time.

Some items are for animal enrichment, like bird toys and large herding balls. Other items may strike people as being more mundane. She said the zoo needs everyday items like nails and screws, extension cords, sponges and office supplies. Winter-specific items are also needed, including heaters, heated water bowls and humidifiers. “These items take a beating,” said Tsitso. She said, “Think

about the hay. We’re ordering about $1,500 worth of hay every three weeks,” for animals that use it as feed or bedding.

However, Tsitso said with a laugh, “We don’t need more blankets. Please.” She explained that the zoo received an influx of blankets a few years ago and simply has nowhere to store more. “We appreciate them, but only a few animals can actually use them. Some will eat them,” she said.

“We’re not a traditional zoo.

A lot of animals come to us with health considerations, come to us elderly,” Tsitso said. “These are animals that need a home,

that would not survive on their own.” As such, they have “very specialized medical needs,” she said. The most expensive item on the wish list is a portable radiograph machine, which can cost several thousand dollars.

“We’re raising money all year round,” Tsitso said. The zoo’s operating budget is funded from three sources: admissions fees, educational programs, and grants and fundraising. She said, “We really are looking to the community who know and love these animals.”

The zoo’s Amazon wish list can be found at forestparkzoo. org/wish-list.

Operations Director: Curtis Panlilio

Executive Editor: Chris Maza

Managing Editors: Dennis Hackett, Ryan Feyre

Staff Writers: Sarah Heinonen, Deb Gardner, Amy Porter, Trent Levakis, Cliff Clark, Tyler Garnet, Peter Tuohy

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

By Katie Castellani State House News Service

BOSTON — Lawmakers are looking to cultivate a spot for Hadley grass on Beacon Hill.

Bills (HD 5474 / SD 3498) filed by state Rep. Homar Gomez and state Sen. Jo Comerford would make asparagus — often known as “Hadley grass” in recognition of the Hampshire County farm town that gained a global reputation for its crop — the state’s official vegetable.

The idea sprouted from a group of third grade students at Hadley Elementary School who learned about the importance of the vegetable and invited the lawmakers, as well as other local officials, to advocate for statewide asparagus acknowledgement in December.

Donning t-shirts that said “Grown In Hadley” above an illustration of a bunch of asparagus, the students schooled the public officials on facts of the vegetable like its nutritional benefits, how it is grown and the local history of asparagus farming. Later that afternoon, Gomez and Comerford filed the bills.

“You didn’t need to ask me twice to file the bill,” Comerford told the News Service. “I will say

that the kids, the students, inspired their entire school in what they did, and the entire community.”

Comerford said she was drawn to the idea because it spotlights not only asparagus, but Western Massachusetts’ vast farming community and the Connecticut River that runs through the area and creates high quality soil for farmers.

“Forever we’ve wanted to put the gifts of Western Massachusetts on the map in the commonwealth,” she said. Comerford added, “It really lifted all of those boats at once.”

At one point, Hadley was dubbed as the asparagus capital of the world for the quantity and quality of asparagus grown there.

In the early 1900s, Hadley produced 80% of the country’s asparagus supply before a fungus wiped out much of the crop, Gomez said. More recently, there were 175 asparagus farms in the state and 215 acres of the crop harvested in 2022, according to the most recent data available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

While it’s not the most widely grown crop in the state, it’s become rooted in the local culture around Hadley for more

than 100 years.

“It’s more like an identity of the farmers in our area,” Gomez said.

Each summer residents gather in Hadley for the asparagus festival with food trucks serving dishes like asparagus ice cream.

And a point of pride for many locals is that Queen Elizabeth II of England is known to have shipped asparagus from Hadley to London because she wanted to taste it.

“People come to Hadley for the asparagus,” Comerford said, adding that it’s known to be some of the best in the nation. In previous years, then-state Rep. John Scibak of Hadley would occasionally distribute bundles of fresh Hadley grass to State House offices at harvest time.

The bills could end up before

the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight once they get referred. Comerford said the students are contacting their peers to rally support for the legislation.

“I’m sure we’ll have a lot of enthusiastic support, not only for Western Massachusetts, but other young people who want to take hold of their democracy ... this is how democracy works,” she said.

“These are my people. Hadley is my community. This way of life is my way of life. And when young people call us to act and we can fulfill this so quickly, it’s a great honor.”

Katie Castellani is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro Massachusetts. Reach her at kcastellani@statehousenews.com

City Council elects Whitfield as first Black woman president

By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — The City of Firsts again earned its moniker on Jan. 5 when the City Council elected Tracye Whitfield to serve as its president, the first Black woman to do so. The crowd that turned out to see Whitfield sworn in filled the City Council chamber to capacity and spilled out into the hallway and the adjoining room.

“This is a momentous occasion our forefathers could only dream about,” said Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Sonia Dinnall. “Tracye Whitfield is a shining example of what can happen when you believe in yourself and lead with integrity, and never back down from your goals.”

Whitfield invited Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers to speak. He said, “I look forward to working with you” to ensure Springfield residents receive “the best they can from the city.” Akers said he had heard that Whitfield was overly critical of the police, but upon getting to know her, found that was “not totally true.” He said she believes in accountability and “holding people accountable doesn’t always mean opposition.” He went on to say, “I truly feel that police and politics should stay separate for

obvious reasons, but on this joyous event, I put that aside. This is something that just doesn’t happen every day.”

For Whitfield, the swearing-in was a family affair. Her mother, Jane Maye, held the Bible Whitfield placed her right hand on

during the oath of office. Maye said her daughter has had “restless days and sleepless nights trying to make Springfield a better place.” Whitfield’s daughter, Taquoya Whitfield, said her mother “didn’t take a seat at the table. She earned it.” Jelani Bland, Whit-

field’s son, referred to the crowd and said, “She loves Springfield as much as y’all love her.” The father of Whitfield’s children, Jason Bland, read a poem he had written for the occasion. In it, he said, “When God took the pen to write the story of Tracye Lynn

Whitfield, clearly, excellence was the moral of the story.”

The ceremony was closed out with a poem written and read by Whitfield’s friend Lynnette Johnson, titled “More Than That” be-

Ramos to focus on facial recognition, economic development in 2026

By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — January 2026

marks the midway point of the current session in the state Legislature and state Rep. Orlando Ramos said he is continuing to make progress on some of his main goals, despite the challenges that exist.

Since Ramos was first elected in 2021, he has worked to pass a bill that would codify the recommendations of a 2020 study on the use of biometric surveillance technology, including facial recognition in law enforcement. The bill would prohibit law enforcement from acquiring, possessing, accessing, using, assisting or developing the technology.

Biometric surveillance has been on Ramos’s radar for several years. In early 2020, when he served as a Springfield city councilor, the council voted to place a moratorium on the use of facial recognition software by city law enforcement until it could be regulated by the state. At the time, it was only the fifth governmental body in the country to curb use of the technology.

In a previous legislative session, the bill was passed in the state House of Representatives but failed in the Senate. Ra-

mos attributed that, in part, to concerns that then-Gov. Charlie Baker would vetoed the bill.

Now, however, Ramos said the conditions are more favorable.

“I think we’re in a better position,” Ramos said. “It’s been made a priority of the Black and Latino Caucus.”

Another piece of legislation filed by Ramos in this session would establish a Puerto Rico Trade Commission. Massachusetts has the fifth-largest Puerto Rican population in the diaspora.

Ramos said both Massachusetts and Puerto Rico are leaders in education, pharmaceuticals and manufacturing, and it would benefit both commonwealths to create “a partnership that we don’t need to go outside the country for trade.”

Notably, a similar commission was recommended at the federal level by U.S. Rep. Pablo Hernandez, the resident commissioner of Puerto Rico, who holds a non-voting seat in the House. Ramos said Massachusetts has partnered with Puerto Rico around education in the past, particularly after Hurricane Maria decimated large areas of the island in 2017.

Ramos acknowledged that the year ahead would have its

challenges, particularly as the federal government has cut funding to certain states, including Massachusetts.

“They’re unprecedented,” Ramos said of the funding cuts. “We’ve never seen this sort of attack from the federal government.” He called cuts and claw backs of congressionally allocated funding “unethical” and said that Massachusetts residents and the state pay taxes to the federal government and in exchange, funding should be returned to the state.

“It’s hurting us from every angle,” he said, adding that all industries have been affected. Because “there is no rhyme or reason” to which funding pools are being cut, he said it makes it difficult to create a budget and plan for the future. “We have to try to do the best with what we have,” said Ramos.

Ramos understands that peo

ple are skeptical of the state government’s transparency, “I think because, at the federal level, peo

ple have a distrust and distaste for the government.” But Ramos said the state government oper

ates differently.

“We’re an open checkbook,” he said of how the state spends its finances, add

ing that people can review how

Voter questions could carry $5 million logistical cost

By Ella Adams State House News Service

BOSTON — Placing 12 initiative petitions on the ballot in 2026 will take a logistical toll on the state elections division and may complicate local ballot box deposits because voters may need to fill out multiple ballot cards, the state’s top elections official said on Jan. 6.

Members of Secretary of State William Galvin’s office delivered dollies of more than 100 boxes of signature sheets from his Ashburton Place office to the State House basement ahead of the Jan. 7 deadline for questions to be transmitted to the House clerk’s office and into the legislative pipeline.

The boxes held a record-breaking number of petition sheets, Galvin’s office said.

“What’s striking to me is not just the number, but the diversity of the groups,” Galvin told reporters.

“What’s the common theme, if there is one? I think it’s that there’s been no action by the Legislature on a wide variety of topics,” Galvin said. “I’m not criticizing this as much as I’m

saying, if you want to look at why it’s here, people have decided that, apparently, whatever the cost of getting the signature is to get on the ballot, it’s probably a more efficient use of their resources.”

Galvin’s office certified eleven questions that would implement all-party state primaries, establish statewide rent control, subject most records of the governor and Legislature to the public records law, allow people to register and vote on Election Day, reduce the state’s personal income tax rate from 5% to 4%, reform the Legislature’s stipend system, roll back recreational cannabis use, steer millions from the state’s sporting goods sales tax to conservation efforts, and ease zoning rules by allowing for single-family homes on smaller lots, allow collective bargaining for employees of the Committee for Public Counsel Services, and require tax refunds if state revenues hit a new limit.

A 12th measure previously certified to hit the 2026 ballot would repeal the state’s 2024 gun reform law.

Top legislative Democrats have raised concerns over the

slew of questions and the special interest groups that are pushing voter referendums to bypass the traditional legislative process. Questioned about those concerns, Galvin said “these are only here because citizens, voters have signed them.”

“I think they’re referencing the fact that most, if not all the questions, used some paid signature gatherers. But I don’t think that diminishes the significance of the voters’ signatures,” Galvin continued. “For instance, I believe in our calculation, the highest number of signatures for any particular question was in support of the one that would limit stipends in the legislature. Draw your own conclusions, but I think it’s fair to say, there are several that have similar themes.”

Lawmakers have until the first Wednesday in May to act on the measures. They have often chosen to let the voters to decide. Legislators bucked that trend in June of 2018, when they negotiated a “grand bargain” compromise to avoid sending measures to the ballot that fall. Issues within the bargain included raising the minimum wage, increasing tipped workers’ wages and cre-

ating a paid medical and family leave program.

If questions are left untouched by lawmakers by May 6, petitioners must file 12,429 more certified signatures with registrars at least 14 days before the first Wednesday in July in order to make it through to November. Galvin said his office would prefer if some of the questions were resolved by lawmakers due to the administrative challenges posed by the volume of questions.

“The biggest challenge will be the actual logistics of printing the ballot, because we’re required — and we should be — to print a summary. The summary that appeared on the papers will be on the ballot, so it will explain exactly what the proposal does. Because of that, and some of the summaries are long, it’s going to require that every ballot probably have multiple ballot cards,” Galvin said.

In some communities, it’s also required that ballots be printed in two or three different languages, he added.

“It’s going to be difficult for the voter, going to be challenging for the logistics of ballot boxes and things like that,” Galvin said.

That’s on top of his voter information pamphlet, or “Red Book,” that must be printed and inclusive of everything on the ballot. His office has met with Administration and Finance Secretary Matt Gorzkowicz to ask that Gov. Healey recommend increasing his budget due to the costs tied to printing ballots and booklets for so many questions. There are also potential postage issues, he said, due to the substantial number of people voting by mail.

“We’re going to be talking a very significant increase in the cost of the election. But you know, democracy is not cheap, and we’re going to pay the price for it, whatever it is, it’s worth it,” Galvin told reporters. He estimated that his new budget request was $5 million higher than the original one.

The Brighton Democrat has held his secretary position since 1995. Asked if he is running for reelection in 2026, Galvin said, “We’ll be getting to that very soon.”

Ella Adams is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Massachusetts. Reach her at ella.adams@ statehousenews.com

Librarians call for assertive approach to funding in Massachusetts

By Sam Drysdale State House News Service

BOSTON — Facing spending cuts and political pressure, Massachusetts librarians are warning public officials that libraries are being treated as budget leverage — and saying that has to change.

The warning came on Jan. 6 during a Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners strategic planning session at the Boston Public Library’s Central Branch, where librarians urged a more assertive approach to funding, both on Beacon Hill and in city and town halls.

The meeting was the first in a series to inform the board’s next three-to-five-year strategic plan. Unlike past cycles, the agency is drafting the plan internally after cuts eliminated funding typically used to hire an outside consultant. The previous plan expired last summer at the end of fiscal 2025.

Participants described a pattern in communities pursuing Proposition 2½ property tax overrides: libraries being placed at the center of budget debates.

Worcester Public Library Executive Director Jason Homer said municipal officials view libraries as effective rallying points for voters — institutions whose popularity can help drive support for tax increases.

Homer argued this turns libraries into bargaining chips rather

City Council

Continued from page 4

cause, she said, Whitfield is more than just the first Black woman president of the council. When Whitfield spoke, she said she had reconciled old misunderstandings and was starting 2026 with a clean slate. She thanked outgoing Council President Michael Fenton for his thoroughness and his willingness to help fellow councilors. She said she was committed to “being present” because “leadership means showing up.” Whitfield announced that she would be launching a training course for new and aspiring city councilors. Her goals included streamlining residential development, limiting property tax increases, fiscal ac-

than essential municipal services and asked for help from the board in reframing debates so that libraries are considered non-negotiable infrastructure.

“We’re on the chopping block consistently because we’re the only thing that motivates voters,” he said. “At some point we need to figure out how to reposition that power to say, if we’re the thing everyone can’t stop gushing about, then we have to figure out how to own that and not just be passive.”

That effort, attendees said, needs to happen locally as much as at the State House. While state aid remains critical, librarians said advocacy needs to start at the community level.

“Our Legislature is dysfunctional, and trying to do anything there is very difficult,” said Robert DeFabrizio, senior manager of law libraries at the Massachusetts Trial Court. “When it comes down to it, a lot of cities and towns have had overrides to keep their libraries open. That has nothing to do with the state Legislature. You see signs, ‘Keep the library open,’ on yards. It’s a local issue.”

DeFabrizio said that state funding is important, but to better get through to lawmakers on Beacon Hill libraries should help their constituents understand the scope of modern library services — and how close some libraries

countability and expanding economic growth. With each goal, she named a councilor to help spearhead it. When she said she would lead, “not with a vision,

come to service reductions or closure during fiscal downturns.

“It’s like, listen folks, I know you hold all the purse strings, but if the taxpayers, they start an uprising, at least now they’re hearing it not just from us,” DeFabrizio said.

Participants emphasized the importance of communicating libraries’ return on investment, pointing to growing demand for digital resources, expanded social services, broadband access and workforce development support.

At the state level, attendees expressed appreciation for MBLC’s advocacy work and its success in maintaining level funding in a difficult budget year. Still, Boston Public Library President David Leonard called for a longer-term, more coordinated advocacy strategy on Beacon Hill.

“Honestly, if you look across the country, the strongest fiscal library areas usually have some level of their own taxing authority, like a levy or another approach. That’s more of a 15-year goal, given the speed at which Massachusetts moves reform, but if you don’t start, you never get there,” he said.

Funding pressures are also reshaping the library workforce, another major theme of the meeting.

Chronic understaffing, retirements and post-pandemic workplace changes have left many

but with collaboration, she received a standing ovation. Councilor Jose Delgado was

libraries operating in what participants described as a near-permanent state of crisis. That strain, they said, is colliding with an outdated training and credentialing system.

Librarians questioned whether current degree requirements and library school curricula align with the realities of the job, particularly in smaller communities where “accidental directors” are often promoted out of necessity rather than preparation. They said these managers lack training in budgeting, labor law and conflict resolution.

“The world, the industry, the sector continues to change, and I know these programs, certifications and expectations — certainly that’s true of the library schools, and I’ve told that to them, so I’m not saying anything I haven’t said — is behind rather than ahead. I think in Massachusetts we should be ahead. We should be leading,” Leonard said.

At the same time, attendees such as Percivial Salazar, a student and librarian assistant in The Public Library of Brookline, said the line between librarians and library assistant staff is narrowing, as staff take on more responsibility without corresponding increases in pay.

Continuing education, Homer added, is not required despite rapid changes in technology,

elected as the council’s vice president. Meanwhile, two new councilors, Gerry Martin and Justin

digital infrastructure and public expectations.

Oak Bluffs Public Library Director Allyson Malik said that in Maryland, where she got her degree, continuing education is required every year.

Several participants suggested MBLC could help lead a broader conversation about the future of librarianship in Massachusetts — potentially in partnership with library schools and other agencies — to rethink credentials, career pathways and continuing education expectations. Ideas ranged from more structured professional development to creative workforce support. One proposal from Malik that generated interest was a librarian exchange program that would allow staff to work temporarily in different library environments. She said such exchanges could broaden perspective, reduce burnout and foster understanding across systems ranging from small rural branches to major urban libraries.

As MBLC drafts its plan, strategists are focused on how best to turn ideas on funding, advocacy and workforce reform into action across the state.

Sam Drysdale is a reporter for State House News Service and State Affairs Pro. Reach her at sdrysdale@statehousenews.com.

Hurst, joined the governing body. Hurst previously served on the council from 2013 to 2023.

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.

Martha Black

CHICOPEE

Audrey P. Chausse

Teresa M. Daigneault (Galarneau)

Robert M. Joyal

Richard Allen Mastronardi

Jean Claude Peloquin

Helene C. Sears

Joan A. Skypeck

Kathleen T. Stanek

EAST LONGMEADOW

Douglas P. Howie

Rita M. Hurley

Patricia Lewis

HOLYOKE

Gerard N. Aubrey

Jacqueline A. Fitzgerald

Elizabeth A. “Betty” Kane

Maria V. Maldonado

LONGMEADOW

Joseph C. Suse

LUDLOW

Anna T. Celona

Rev. J. Donald R. Lapointe

Alice P. Mannix

Claire T. Natario (Paulhus)

SOUTH HADLEY

Marie J. Cassidy

James G. Lowe

Richard J. Ross

Guido C. Schiappa

Roger W. Strange

SPRINGFIELD

Agnese Basile

William Elian

Susan Ehrlich

Gaynor

Berniece M. LaMotte

Mary F. Magiera

Donald Anthony Manoni

Micheline P. Meunier

Antonio S. Monteiro Jr.

Dorothy Pulowski

Jacqueline E. Stanek

Candice Lynn Stolpinski

Richard Wright Jr.

WILBRAHAM

Anthony G. Laino

BASKETBALL

The Springfield College Men’s basketball team hosted Connecticut College on Jan. 1 in the Naismith Classic. Springfield lost a back-andforth game 77-74 at Blake Arena in Springfield, MA.

REMINDER SPORTS PHOTOS TAKEN BY

Time to restore dignity to emergency food assistance, says advocate

By Sarah Heinonen sheinonen@thereminder.com

SPRINGFIELD — Hunger is a growing problem across Massachusetts. A study by the Greater Boston Food Bank and Mass General Brigham in summer 2025 found that more than half, 54%, of people in Hampden County, are food insecure. While many programs are working to solve the issue of access to food, Nia Rennix said she is working to solve the issue of dignity in food access.

Rennix, with degrees in business and nutrition, has helped establish or adapt emergency food distribution programs at various schools, hospitals and nonprofits. In her work, Rennix makes dignity the bedrock on which food pantry programs are built, creating programs that provide nutritional assistance without con-

tributing to the stigma related to asking for help. Historically, she said, food pantries are “so focused on efficiency, pushing food out the door.” Instead of viewing the pantry system from the perspective of those operating it, Rennix said she starts from the perspective of pantry users. “It’s how families and people are navigating through the food pantry, how they’re feeling. I’ve talked to thousands of families, when you’re in there, they’re grateful,” she said, but added, “a lot of institutions know that something is missing.”

The focus on dignity includes ensuring that there are culturally acceptable options for all users. This includes considerations of familiar ingredients and preparation methods for various cultures, as well as religious restrictions.

Eliminating long lines for food access and making sure the registration process does not “feel like an interrogation” are also necessary, Rennix said.

“All this is important as people navigate through these spaces to make sure that trust is not eroded,” she said, explaining, “People and families that face food insecurity are already going through a certain level of trauma. Trust is a foundation.” She said people will carry that trust with them when reaching out to other resources and systems.

Considering current practices around emergency food distribution, Rennix said, “We’ve come a long way.” Historically, pantry workers would hand users a prepacked box of food staples, which may include ingredients people have never cooked with or foods they cannot eat due to allergies or

religious restrictions. Rennix said the client choice model of emergency food distribution began to spread in the 1990s, giving the users autonomy in what foods they choose.

Now, it is time to move beyond food access to eradicating the stigma of food assistance.

“People think ‘homeless’ when they think of who uses pantries, but it’s your neighbor, your boss, your friend. People who are working but need a little more help don’t want to go to these pantries because they’re worried what people will think,” Rennix said, but “People don’t realize how close they can be to accessing pantries. I’ve seen so many people come in and talked to them and kind of been a part of their struggle.” She shared a story of one woman whose husband had died. Without his income, she

needed help with groceries. “She never thought she would need a pantry,” Rennix said.

Providing dignity for people accessing emergency food is about “allowing them to move through the pantry in a way that is trauma-free, in a way that its stigma-free.”

To help address this issue, Rennix founded HungerDash, a virtual food pantry club. Like food delivery services, such as InstaCart, users pay a $25 monthly fee to have a curated shipment of items delivered to their doors each Friday, eliminating the stigma that many feel about visiting a food pantry. The online platform also offers opportunities for people to help support the program. For more information about HungerDash, visit hungerdash. com. Rennix can be reached by email at hello@niarennix.com.

Michael J. Dias Foundation appoints new executive director

SPRINGFIELD — The Michael J. Dias Foundation, Inc., a leader in providing safe and supportive sober housing environments for people in recovery and family support groups, is proud to announce the appointment of Patrick D. Carpenter as its new executive director. Carpenter brings over 14 years of dedicated experience in institutional advancement, development, fundraising, and non-profit leadership as well as advocacy in the substance use disorder and addiction recovery field.

In this pivotal position, Carpenter will spearhead the organization’s strategic vision and his focus will be expanding housing

capacity by completing a capital campaign to open a new Woman’s Sober House, enhancing recovery support services, forging stronger community partnerships, and growing a donor base to combat the ongoing addiction crisis in Western Massachusetts.

“We are at a critical juncture in our mission to provide essential sober living resources in Western MA,” said Grace Dias, president of the Michael J. Dias Foundation. “Patrick’s proven track record leading development and advancement opportunities, fundraising and his passion for helping individuals rebuild their lives makes him the ideal leader for our next chapter. We are confi-

dent his expertise will significant

ly strengthen our ability to serve the community.”

Prior to joining the Michael J. Dias Foundation, Inc., Carpenter served as vice president and chief advancement officer at WMHT Educational Telecommunications, where he successfully strengthened philanthropic support, expanded community partnerships and led strategic initiatives that advanced the organization’s mission across public media and education. He holds a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration with a concentration in Leadership from Bay Path University, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English from

the Elms College.

“I am honored to step into the role of executive director and join a team so deeply committed to supporting individuals on their path to lasting recovery,” said Patrick Carpenter. “Stable, compassionate, and sober housing changes lives — it’s the foundation from which long-term sobriety and personal transformation can grow. I look forward to partnering with board leadership, the dedicated staff, volunteers, and community to ensure every resident has the support, dignity, and opportunity they deserve to thrive.”

To learn more or donate to the Michael J. Dias Foundation, please visit, mdiasfoundation.org.

Western New England appoints Dr. Joseph C. Hartman as president

SPRINGFIELD — The Board of Trustees of Western New England University on Jan. 7 announced the appointment of Joseph C. Hartman, Ph.D., P.E. as the university’s seventh president. Hartman will assume the role on June 1, 2026. Hartman currently serves as provost and vice chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he has led academic affairs since 2019. His leadership experience and commitment to academic innovation and student success align with Western New England University’s mission to prepare graduates for leadership and impact in a rapidly changing world. In his current role, he oversees academic strategy, faculty affairs and student success initiatives across the institution of nearly 17,000 students and 600 faculty. Under his leadership, UMass Lowell integrated academic and student affairs to better support the student experience, opened the Center for Excellence in

Learning and Teaching, developed new degrees in Data Science and Engineering Physics with the Faculty Senate, and initiated an Early College program in collaboration with the UMass System for aspiring high school students. Prior to becoming Provost, Hartman served as dean of the Francis College of Engineering at UMass Lowell.

“Joe Hartman brings the experience, judgment, and collaborative leadership needed to lead Western New England University at this pivotal moment,” said Elena Gervino, chair of the Western New England Board of Trustees. “After a comprehensive national search, the board is confident in his ability to advance academic excellence, strengthen experiential learning and build on the University’s strong momentum as our seventh president. We are pleased to welcome him to the Western New England community.”

As dean of the Francis College of Engineering, Hartman oversaw a college serving nearly

4,000 students and more than 115 full-time faculty. During his tenure, the college hired 54 full-time faculty, nearly tripled research expenditures, launched new degree programs in Biomedical, Environmental, and Industrial Engineering as well as Engi-

neering Management, expanded professional co-op and interdisciplinary senior design opportunities, and increased both the size and diversity of the faculty and student body. An industrial and systems engineer by training, Hartman’s research focuses on engineering economic decision analysis and applied optimization. He has published more than 100 scholarly papers and is the author of “Engineering Economy and the Decision-Making Process.” His research has been supported by the National Science Foundation, including a CAREER Award, the Office of Naval Research and numerous industry partners. Hartman previously served as professor and chair of Industrial and Systems Engineering at the University of Florida and held faculty and leadership appointments at Lehigh University, including the George N. Kledaras ’87 Endowed Chair. He has also held visiting academic positions at the University of Edinburgh and the University of Dortmund.

“I am honored and excited to join Western New England University as its next president,” said Hartman. “WNE’s commitment to student achievement, academic excellence and professional preparation deeply resonates with my own values. I am eager to work with the trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners to build on the university’s strong foundation and shape its future success.”

The Board of Trustees also expressed its deep appreciation to interim President Michael Alexander, who has served in that role since July 2025. Alexander has provided steady leadership during a period of transition and helped ensure continuity and momentum for the university.

A native of the Chicago area, Hartman earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign and his master’s and doctoral degrees from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He and his wife, Karen, have three adult children: Helena, Timothy and Patrick.

Ice Art Festival gears up for biggest celebration yet

By Trent Levakis tlevakis@thereminder.com

NORTHAMPTON — Winter

magic is returning to Northampton in the form of the 15th annual Ice Art Festival on Jan. 31, turning the city’s downtown into a walkable winter art gallery.

This year’s festival, once again put on by the Downtown Northampton Association, is set to be the biggest iteration yet, according to organizers, as 17 frozen art locations grace downtown. Sculptors will begin carving in the morning and finish their work before dusk, and their finished art will be viewed until nature melts them over the following days.

“It’s really amazing to be able to watch a carver work to completion starting from just a block of ice,” Northampton DNA Board President Amanda Shafii told Reminder Publishing . “Typically, stations get two blocks of ice each, delivered between 8-9 in the morning and then throughout the day, the carver works on their masterpiece, and it’s amazing what they can do. We’ve had dragons, we’ve had the Grinch, we’ve had so many different beautiful works of art, and it’s very fascinating to be able to watch it all happen in live time.”

With more sculptures, more artists and more places to explore, visitors are invited to wander, discover and experience ice art around every corner. From iconic downtown spots to hidden gems, each location offers something unique, according to organizers. The festival encourages guests to explore local shops, restaurants and gathering spaces along the way.

“It happens to be a good time to try and bring an event downtown. Things get a little quieter after the holidays. Everyone loves it,” added Shafii.

The free, all-day festival is a beloved winter tradition in the community that highlights the energy of downtown Northampton while supporting local artists, shops, restaurants and gathering spaces. Shafii said a map of the ice art locations throughout downtown will be released the day of the event on the DNA’s website and socials.

There is also a competition element to the festival, as attendees will be asked to vote on their favorite piece by the day’s end. This year’s People’s Choice Award will be dedicated to the memory of local ice sculptor David Rothstein, who passed away unexpectedly in November.

“David was very active in the carving community and a carver with us for a bunch of years, and unfortunately, he just passed recently, so we want to honor him with dedicating the people’s choice award to him this year,” explained Shafii. “I hope that we get a busy day full of people coming downtown. I hope we get a lot of votes as well because we like to make the competition even more competitive, and it’s even more fun the more people that join in.”

A2Z, beryl, Eastside Grill, Familiars, Forbes Library, Hotel Northampton, Thornes Marketplace and more will feature

frozen art.

For more information on this year’s Ice Art Festival, visit nohodna.org/ice-art-festival-2026/.

“I hope that everyone has a great day, gets to do a little shopping, and maybe warm up with a cup of coffee or get a nice dinner after,” added Shafii. “It’s really great to see the carvings come to life during the daytime, but at nighttime, they’re all lit up, so it’s like a completely dif-

and