Letters To The Editor

Letters To The Editor
To submit your letter to the editor please email it to:
News@ReminderPublications.com



Panel showcases foster care struggles

2/28/2024

The Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley held a Panel Discussion on Feb. 12 at the Ludlow Country Club on the foster care system in Western Massachusetts and youth who experience significant barriers as it...
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Agawam, imagine medical care without worry

2/1/2024

The Agawam City Council should pass TR-2024-9, a resolution to urge state legislators to establish Medicare for All, a single-payer health care system for all who reside in Massachusetts.


Im...
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Medicare for All would save millions for town, residents

1/24/2024

The Agawam City Council should pass TR-2024-9, a resolution to urge Beacon Hill to establish “Medicare for All” — a single-payer system for universal health care for every residen...
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Thanks from the Senior Center

1/17/2024

The Friends of Hampden Seniors would like to thank all of those people involved in our Christmas “Shop Til You Drop” Fundraiser.


It was a great success thanks to the many wonder...
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The unmaking of an IT department

1/16/2024

Why did Hampshire College, an iconic progressive institution saved from closure in 2019, outsource information technology (IT) service to a national for-profit and lay off dedicated employees, some...
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Republicans must reject Trump’s lies

12/27/2023

On Dec. 7, 1941, the United States was attacked by Japan, “… a day,” then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt said in a galvanizing speech, “which will live in infamy.” J...
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Winter Concert celebrating 60th anniversary

12/14/2023

Dear community,


From available records, we believe that the Longmeadow High School Winter Concert, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m., will mark the 60th anniversary of a very special tradition at LHS. We be...
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Thank you voters for your support

11/21/2023

I would like to thank all the people of Agawam and Feeding Hills for going out and taking their time to vote on Election Day. My specials thanks to those who voted for me and those who put up my po...
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Reforms needed at Sex Offender Registry Board

11/17/2023

Serving as Massachusetts state auditor doesn’t just mean reviewing finances. A big part of my role, as I often speak about with folks across the state, is reviewing the performance and effica...
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Gratitude for Lopez

11/14/2023

During the wind blast frozen Tuesday night, voters approaching we remaining sign holders at the Ward 9 poll were exuberant and delighted to have voted for Delmarina for mayor. At 6:45 p.m. one gent...
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Hendrickson adds welcome voice to Agawam City Council

11/2/2023

We are so lucky to have Tom Hendrickson as an Agawam city councilor. His vote on ordinances and resolutions before the council is always measured and evidence-based, taking into careful considerati...
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Big E animal rights letter missed several facts

11/2/2023

From its beginnings over 100 years ago, Eastern States Exposition has represented the cultivation of positive family memories at our fair year after year, as well as the successful growth of the ag...
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Vote is about community

11/1/2023

Community. “Sometimes you gotta’ create what you want to be a part of.” [Geri Weitzman]


On Nov. 7, the town of East Longmeadow has a critical vote about “ommunity.&rd...
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Support Enfield Loaves and Fishes on Giving Tuesday

11/1/2023

GivingTuesday is Nov. 28 and is always recognized on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It is a global, annual movement, and one of the biggest nonprofit fundraising opportunity days during the year. ...
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Voting yes for high school

11/1/2023

I’m voting yes on Nov. 7 in East Longmeadow to fund the building of a new high school, and I hope many of my fellow residents will join me. I’ve recently seen a slew of signs for people...
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Support for Lopez

10/31/2023

Accolades of Applause to Delmarina Lopez.


Silence is not Lopez.


At City Council, Lopez’ questions speak truth in spite of a few councilors’ rhetoric, distraction, and gave...
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Asking for your vote

10/31/2023

Despite the strain of the COVID slow recovery and continuing high inflation, the city of Chicopee and its Assessors Office continues to make progress. Chicopee has one of the lowest tax rates in We...
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Taste of Greece a great success

10/26/2023

St. Luke’s Greek Orthodox Church’s Taste of Greece committee would like to extend a big thank you to the East Longmeadow community for supporting our annual food festival event this pas...
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School vote poses dilemma for the town

10/26/2023

Our town faces a voting dilemma on Nov. 7. The proposal is to fund a new high school and a new pool building and pool by borrowing the money. An affirmative vote will increase the amount the Town c...
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Buyer beware with proposed new high school

10/26/2023

This letter is a commentary on the existing East Longmeadow High School vs. ELHS Building Project proposal. Like so many other concerned citizens we took the town tour of the high school on Thursda...
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Too many unanswered questions on new development

10/26/2023

The Longmeadow fall Special Meeting on Nov. 7 has an article proposal for a zoning change from residential to commercial at the corner of Williams Street and Redfern Drive. The developer Colvest is...
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American Jews must speak out against the bombing of innocents

10/24/2023

The Israeli bombing of Gaza is indeed an attack on the Palestinian people, a diaspora, not only on Hamas. The bombing and restricting of water, food, medicine is an attack on life itself — it...
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Big E must get rid of all animal acts

10/18/2023

This year, the Big E took a step forward once again and broke some daily attendance records. The Big E had no wild animals for the second year in a row and removed a camel show that was there the p...
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Media need to stop demonizing voters

10/11/2023

As the last two and a half years of the Biden presidency have shown us, and today’s polls tell us, the New York Times columnist Charles Blow needs to write an opinion like his recent article,...
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Springfield and its kids

10/11/2023

Springfield has had a really difficult summer to say the least.


Too many killings, too much violence. It is overwhelming.


Our community leaders from the Mayor’s office, church l...
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Vote Hemmeler

10/11/2023

I want to go on record as endorsing Kelly Hemmeler for Enfield Second District Council representative. I can confidently say Kelly has the necessary qualities and skills to excel in this position. ...
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Trump is not above the law

10/3/2023

Two separate groups of everyday Americans, fulfilling their civic duty by serving on a grand jury, have now issued two separate indictments of Donald Trump for his efforts to overturn the will of v...
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Questioning Select Board priorities

9/20/2023

In reading the Sept. 14 edition of The Reminder of the town of Longmeadow Board of Selectmen’s meeting, I have to shake my head at what are the priorities of Mr. Gold and Mr. Lachiusa? Mr. La...
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Not convinced by climate column

9/20/2023

As a member of the Terminal Generation, I basically read this same story 50 years ago when I was in my 20s (“Climate Change Is Here Whether You Ignore It or Not,” The Pennysaver, page 7...
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Gardeners can aid monarchs’ journey

9/20/2023

Recently I released a monarch butterfly that I had watched grow from an egg to a caterpillar. It then formed a chrysalis, where in 12 days it was transformed to a creature that is now flying back t...
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Salary, residency hampered town manager search

8/3/2023

I read the recent letter to the editor by former East Longmeadow Town Councilor Pat Henry titled “Town manager appointment process is troubling.”


But first I will say I have no i...
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Fourth of July Parade Thanks and Category Winners

7/19/2023

First and foremost, the Parade Committee members would like to thank our community for allowing us to bring the parade to East Longmeadow annually. The viewers along the parade route clapping and s...
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Talk to your teen about dating safely

6/15/2023

Summer can be a great time to talk to your teen about dating and we have some suggestions about how to get started.


1. Starting the conversation. Everyday situations can offer a natural way ...
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Thank You

6/14/2023

The Friends of the Enfield Library are thrilled to announce that our annual book sale was a tremendous success. Thank you to everyone who donated books to our sale and then to those who enthusiasti...
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Write in for Longmeadow Planning Board

6/8/2023

I want to take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Robert Bryant Miller, but my family, friends and neighbors know me as Bryant. I am running for the open seat on the Longmeadow Planning Board...
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Town manager appointment process is troubling

6/5/2023

Last week The Reminder reported that Tom Christensen had been appointed our next Town Manager.  I like Tom very much and enjoyed working with him on projects when he was Deputy Superintendent ...
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An even older man answers Mike Dobbs

5/24/2023

In his Opinion piece on May 11-17, correspondent Mike Dobbs asks readers for “explanations” to several “old man conundrums.” But his questions are easily answered if one is ...
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Why so much hate?

5/18/2023

Why do we have so much hate in our country? We have 14 active hate groups here in liberal Massachusetts. The Patriot Front, (white supremacists) account for more than 290 incidents in Massachusetts...
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A thank you

5/4/2023

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended the Three Truck Event at the Hampden Senior Center on Saturday, April 29, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.


This very successful fu...
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The “emergency” that isn’t

4/27/2023

For well over five years now, East Longmeadow residents — and all residents residing in towns served by the Springfield Water Commission have regularly received notices entitled “Import...
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Help children stay safe from abuse

4/25/2023

April is sexual assault awareness month, and the Southern Hilltown Domestic Violence Task Force has some tips for talking to children about safety. While many of us still think about strangers when...
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Vote no in Amherst on May 2

4/25/2023

Amherst homeowners already face paying the ninth highest property tax rate of all 300+ towns in the state. Now the same homeowners are being asked to nearly double their annual p...
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Praise due for new leader at Hilltown Ambulance

4/6/2023

So, for many years I have been complaining about the direction that Hilltown Ambulance was going in with their former director, and some board members publicly, privately and recently at Huntington...
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Vote Vineeth March 7

3/1/2023

As a longtime resident of Longmeadow, I was excited to learn that Vineeth Hemavathi was running for a seat on our Select Board. I have met and spoken with Vineeth, and like so many others who have ...
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Solar benefits excluded from story

2/22/2023

Regarding your excellent article about saving money on utilities. I am referring to page 11 of the Feb 9th edition, titled,”Utilities costs are skyrocketing, here is what you can do about it....
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Rage against the machine

2/8/2023

My inner rage against the machine is the only way to describe it. The helplessness, frustration, sadness, knowing the machine hasn’t changed in quite some time. To make it understand compassi...
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You get what you vote for

2/8/2023

I read with great interest your article on the front page of The Reminder. None of it surprised me. When our state was awash in COVID money and gas prices were crippling families they voted down in...
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Competition for Spectrum needed

2/8/2023

We need competition in East Longmeadow town as Spectrum has monopoly and keeps raising rates every now and then.


If there are more than one in the market for every service we can have better...
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Government has its limitations

1/31/2023

It is important to acknowledge the limitations on municipal government. We must act in accordance with federal and state laws, and the town’s own bylaws. Even as we have faithfully complied w...
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Dobbs Dead Wrong

1/31/2023

In the January 19-25 issue of The Reminder, past editor G. Michael Dobbs makes a plea that Springfield’s MGM casino should reopen completely. Dobbs is dead wrong.


Mine is not an ad ho...
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Support Green Communities

1/25/2023

In response to last week’s article, I want to voice my support for East Longmeadow to join the Green Communities program.


Green Communities has been running since 2010, and 290 of the ...
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One year since passing of O’Connor

1/11/2023

Jan. 6 marked the anniversary of the death of East Longmeadow Town Councilor Thomas C. O’Connor.


Tom O’Connor may not have been born in East Longmeadow, but he surely did “...
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Run-in with police

1/11/2023

I had just left Baystate, where I was visiting my wife. She fell and broke her wrist and hip. It’s a chore to see her suffer like that. I was on my way to supper with a friend of my daughter,...
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Rotarians plan for 2023

1/5/2023

First and foremost, the East Longmeadow Rotarians wish everyone happy holidays and sincere appreciation for your support as we “Serve Above Self” in the community. We were honored to ha...
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Veterans Memorial Committee thanks Big Y

1/5/2023

The East Longmeadow Veterans Memorial Committee has received a $4,000 donation towards the construction of the East Longmeadow Veterans Memorial. Because of the importance of this Veterans Memorial...
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Judge’s decision raises questions

12/21/2022

In a recent decision by the judge in the case of Garvey, et.al. vs. the town of Hampden, several questions arose. Namely, “Is it possible that as alleged by the self-storage speculators and b...
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Prisoner Exchange a Travesty

12/21/2022

Why not work for the release of the Marine prisoner, Paul Whelan, rather than a drug carrying person like Brittney Griner, is an injustice to patriotic, law-abiding Americans?


It is a total ...
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City Council Complicates Tax Relief

12/20/2022

Springfield City Councilors punted on their first opportunity to provide an additional $6.5 million in tax relief to homeowners and small business owners, delaying their vote until Monday. The $6.5...
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Dorsey For CEO

12/20/2022

Springfield’s Martin Luther King (MLK) Community Center is looking for a new CEO.


Given its stated mission to empower the aspirations of individuals, families and youth to achieve the ...
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What I’m thankful for this year

12/1/2022

Editor’s note: Executive Editor Payton North asked readers to submit letters to the editor with what they are thankful for this year.



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Thanks for health, traditional dinner

12/1/2022

At 70, I’m thankful for much. At 70, most of my friends and family are gone, which is sad, but it gives me good silent memories. My wife is still with me, good. My two older brothers are with...
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Thanksgiving isn’t just for one day

11/23/2022

We recognize Thanksgiving as a national holiday as a one-time celebration each year on the fourth Thursday of November. I propose in this devotion to bring about a different view as you prepare for...
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Shape Longmeadow’s future

11/22/2022

Now is the time to shape the future of Longmeadow. The town is calling on all residents and stakeholders to help envision and inform Longmeadow’s future as we update our Long Range Plan for t...
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Climate change is undoubtedly here

11/16/2022

Seasonal cold temperatures are on their way, so will we soon forget the alarmingly high temperatures that just broke November records across the Northeast? Here in temperate New England, the effect...
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Clear leaves off sidewalks

11/9/2022

Fall is the most popular season of the year for many reasons. One of which is walking, such as walking the family pet. My wife and I enjoy walking our dog in the afternoon and we encounter countles...
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Vote for Russo for State Rep

11/4/2022

I am happy to endorse Anthony Russo for State Representative. 


Anthony Russo has proven people skills so as to bring funds back to our district.


I see him as a man of dedication ...
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Don’t Settle for Less

10/31/2022

Many of us know little to nothing about the Sheriff’s responsibilities or role in our community, but we should. The HSO (Hampshire Sheriff’s Office) seems to have flown under the radar ...
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ELRTC positions on ballot questions

10/27/2022

The membership of the East Longmeadow Republican Town Committee met on Oct. 19 and voted to adopt the following positions on the four ballot questions on the November ballot:


Question 1 &nda...
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More details needed on Mixed Use Overlay

10/27/2022

This week, I read The Reminder article by Sarah Heinonen (Oct. 20-26 publication) on the East Longmeadow community development workshop conducted Oct. 12 at Birchland Middle School on the vacant co...
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Vote no on proposed Hardwick horseracing

10/26/2022

This document provides information that lays out some of the impacts that horse racing will
have on Hardwick and surrounding towns.


1. Process is too rushed: Not enough time has been gi...
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No water problem in Longmeadow

10/19/2022

The town of Longmeadow does not have a water resource problem.


Why are the Select Board and Town Manager (town) attempting to restrict water usage by including the following in Town Meeting ...
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Vote ‘no’ on Question 1

10/19/2022

Every 17 years, millions of cicadas emerge from the ground and flock across the countryside, destroying crops and creating a general nuisance. Did you know that Massachusetts has a similar cycle? E...
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Trump supports unfit candidates

10/19/2022

Why is Trump supporting so many unfit candidates for office? For example, Marjorie Taylor Greene says that Biden’s advocacy and incentives for electric vehicles is an attempt to emasculate Am...
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Monson Democrats respect town’s war monuments

10/19/2022

The Monson Democratic Town Committee is aware of the discussion by the Select Board at its Oct. 11 meeting regarding the placement of political signs around the Civil War Soldiers Monument in Monso...
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Support our Post Offices

10/12/2022

I strongly support basic banking services at Post Offices nationwide. Postal banking has the potential to be transformative for consumers and will help support the public Postal Service. It is a wi...
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Camel attraction treats animals well

10/5/2022

Ryan Henning, owner of the Camel Kingdom attraction at the Eastern States Exposition, sent the following letter in response to article “Protesters Ask Big E to Drop Wild Animal Carnival A...
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Respecting animals first-hand

10/5/2022

In response to the letter by Donalyn Gross, Sept 29 - Oct 5, I beg to differ with your position as to how children should learn about animals. I do believe that one does need to pet, feed, and ogle...
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Eversource has created another eyesore

10/5/2022

A few months ago, I drove through the intersection of Wilbraham Road and Bradley Road, and was shocked to see a major construction project taking place.


At first, I presumed this was an exp...
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One step forward for the Big E

9/28/2022

Hallelujah to the Big E for having no elephants at the fair! That’s a big step forward. Now we have to concentrate on eliminating camel exhibits (and other exotic animals), as well as pig rac...
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Thank you

9/20/2022

My campaign to serve in the state Senate came up short in the final count and I called Jake Oliveria on election night to congratulate him on a spirited race. I am asking you to join me in a coordi...
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No on zoning change

9/7/2022

There appears to be misconceptions as to the reasons the immediate surrounding neighborhood, of which I am a part, are not in favor of the zone change to 1297 Enfield St. proposed by the Felician S...
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Vote for Lesser

8/24/2022

On Sept. 6, I will cast my vote in the Democratic primary for Eric Lesser for lieutenant governor.


Eric’ s experience makes him uniquely situated to hep build a new foundation for Mass...
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No swimming

8/16/2022

The city of Northampton is issuing this statement to caution visitors to the Connecticut River Greenway Park and Boat Launch Area. Thanks to an unforeseen natural deposit of soft sand at the locati...
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A Public Response to the July 28 Edition of The Reminder

8/10/2022

This letter is intended to clarify certain matters covered in the article on the front page of the July 28 publication of The Reminder titled, “Options for mixed-use overlay district presente...
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Thank you from the Girl Scouts

7/27/2022

Once again, as a volunteer for the Girl Scouts in South Hadley, it is with much gratitude that I reach out to say Thank You to another local business that has stepped up to help us out. This year, ...
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Constitutional rights

7/21/2022

Does a person have a right to something that is not mentioned in the Constitution? If the answer is “no.” There are many things we do every day which can be regulated, such as drinking ...
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East Longmeadow Republican Town Committee July 4th Winners and Thank-Yous

7/13/2022

The East Longmeadow Parade Committee and supporters are pleased to announce the 2022 Award Winners… but first and foremost, we thank all of our parade attendees from communities near and far...
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East Longmeadow shows unbiased participation

7/13/2022

I would like to recognize and thank the East Longmeadow Parade Committee for a truly wonderful July 4th Parade. It was encouraging to see how much our town openly supports freedom of expression. Ou...
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Makes Nixon look like a hero

7/13/2022

Having watched most of the hearings and having read the many articles that have consistently appeared in the media I am absolutely convinced that when Mr. Trump came into office as the President he...
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Thank you from the Friends of the Enfield Library

6/15/2022

The Friends of the Enfield Library would like to express our sincere thanks to the people of Enfield and the surrounding towns for their book donations and their enthusiastic purchase of these dona...
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Balancing inclusion and fairness in sports

6/15/2022

I gave little thought to gender and sport until Longmeadow High School’s Girls Field Hockey team advanced to the 2019 Division I State Championship. This elite team, led by legendary coach An...
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Roe v. Wade

6/15/2022

Should Roe v Wade as discussed in your opinion article be overturned?


First, Judges do not at any confirmation hearings opine on future cases that may or may not come before the court. There...
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Thank you ELPD and ELFD

6/7/2022

On behalf of the Bottomley family, we would like to thank the East Longmeadow Police Department and the East Longmeadow Fire Department. On the night of May 2 our daughter was in a fatal car accide...
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Elect Scott Bombardier for Longmeadow School Committee

6/7/2022

My background in education began over 20 years ago when I had the pleasure of teaching music to elementary-age students. That grew to working with children of all ages, including instructing a high...
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Vote for Foster and Gold

6/7/2022

I ask you to please vote for Richard Foster and Mark Gold for Longmeadow Select Board on June 14. I could list numerous important accomplishments of both these men, but we need to look to the futur...
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Vote Boucher for forward-thinking leadership

6/2/2022

I have immense respect for all of East Longmeadow’s community leaders. It’s an often-thankless job and these folks give generous amounts of their time providing an essential service to ...
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Holyoke mayor responds

5/31/2022

As your mayor, as the father of 10-year-old twins and as a fellow human being, I share your grief and horror and heartbreak at the unspeakable murders yesterday (May 24) at the Robb Elementary Scho...
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Huntington needs to pay its fair share for library

5/25/2022

We are deeply concerned that the Huntington Selectboard and the Finance Committee have decided to put the entire fiscal year 2023 Huntington Library budget on an override question. Libraries provid...
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John Harding Fails to Meet Ballot Requirement

5/25/2022

Recently, and after intense legal research and discussions with the State Elections Commission, Attorney John Harding learned that he falls just short by a few months in qualifying as a candidate f...
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Should the government try to control women?

5/25/2022

The desire on the part of some narrow-minded people to overturn this legislation sends me two messages which are: An attack on the personal and private decisions women should make about their own b...
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Running for Planning Board re-election

4/13/2022

My name is John Matthews, and I am running for reelection for the town of Hampden Planning Board. The Planning Board operates under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 40a. I have been a member of t...
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Davenport announces bid for re-election

4/13/2022

Donald L Davenport, chairman of the Hampden Board of Selectman has announced that he will seek a second three-year term on the board.


In making the announcement Davenport stated, “Whil...
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State IDs for the homeless

1/24/2022

As a long-time provider of services to the homeless, the Mental Health Association welcomes the Senate passage of Bill 2612 to allow the commonwealth’s Registry of Motor Vehicles to issue a s...
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Stop the Industrial Gas Complex proposed in Longmeadow

12/22/2021

I urge you to go and experience the sights and sounds and smells of a gas facility. Go to the Eversource/Tennessee Gas Pipeline facility on Shaker Road just south of Pease Road in East Longmeadow. ...
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Working toward a safer community

12/21/2021

I want to make everyone aware of how all of us at the Community Survival Center in Indian Orchard are working to safeguard our community.


Our staff is small and we rely on many volunteers. T...
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Baker’s exit changes nothing in state’s politics

12/15/2021

The Reminder opinion titled “Baker’s Announcement Changes Massachusetts’ Political Landscape” (The Pennysaver, Dec. 9, page 7) should be more accurately be titled “Bak...
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Time to address barriers to care

12/1/2021

Safe guarding the mental health of all Baystate residents and ensuring their access to needed behavioral health care in a timely fashion is a key component of legislation before the Massachusetts S...
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McNally ‘blind hared’ reason for exit

11/18/2021

In a Town Council meeting on Nov. 9, East Longmeadow Town Manager Mary McNally repeated the allegations she made in her Oct. 4 letter of resignation that she was resigning “solely due to one ...
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Trump justice system rules

11/18/2021

Get away with as much as you can. Show no respect for the US Supreme Court, Department of Justice, the military, laws that don’t appeal to you, doctors, scientists and the Constitution. Ignor...
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Agawam city councilor thanks all who voted

11/17/2021

I would like to thank the people of Agawam who voted on Election Day. My special thanks and appreciation to those who voted for me and gave me a big win.


It is a great honor to have their co...
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Thank you

11/8/2021

I want to thank the people of Holyoke for their trust in my ability to make our city a more promising place for our families.


My parents, Thomas and Mary Ellen, have been by my side along wi...
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‘Facts are stubborn things’

11/3/2021

I would like to add several facts to the article “Eversource Energy Presents Pipeline Reliability Project” published in last week’s Reminder (Oct. 21, 2021).


1. What Everso...
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Thank you, Wilbraham

10/27/2021

On behalf of the Friends of Wilbraham Seniors Inc., I want to sincerely thank our hundreds and hundreds of members, supporters, and volunteers who persevered in this long, arduous journey to have o...
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Zone change premature, vote no

10/27/2021

As a long-time member of the Longmeadow Planning Board, I am proudest of my sponsorship of the town’s site and design review by-law. Site and design review is the town’s strongest tool ...
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McNally resigns, cites unnamed councilor’s bad behavior

10/20/2021

EAST?LONGMEADOW – East Longmeadow Town Manager Mary McNally’s letter of resignation was read into the record at the Oct. 12 Town Council meeting. In it, she described a hostile work env...
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Not what I call a public hearing

10/20/2021

I have been to every hearing regarding the two proposals for the construction of self-storage units since first hearing on July 28. With approx two weeks’ notice we managed to gather over 400...
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Spreading misinformation should be illegal

10/20/2021

This is a response to the gentleman from East Longmeadow who criticized my letter about Fox News. He added the information that it was a rapper who initiated the story that the vaccine could make o...
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Vote Cotton for Smith Voc. trustee

10/20/2021

My name is John E Cotton and I am running for the position of trustee of Smith Vocational and Technical High School.


I have a long history with Smith Vocational:


Sixteen years as a de...
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Library opposition is about priorities

10/20/2021

Opponents to the $35 million-dollar Amherst library expansion are not anti-government, anti-tax or anti-library. They simply understand the importance of prioritizing expenses. Here is a list of to...
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A library is more than a building

10/20/2021

A library is more than its building or its stacks of books and reading materials. Among many other benefits, a strong public library supports and nurtures literacy and a love of learning among all ...
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The community deserves thanks

10/14/2021

Thanks to The Reminder for running the Sept. 30 summary of Celebrate EL 2021. Our Rotarians appreciate the coverage of the event but would be remiss in not acknowledging the support we received thi...
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Resist outside influences

10/14/2021

In the Sept. 9 issue of The Reminder, I was quoted as having said that the Hampden Wilbraham schools continue to “spend all this time on stupid social issues.” Although I regret my choi...
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Thanks for making concerts happen

10/14/2021

On behalf of the Somers Cultural Commission, I would like to thank everyone who supported the Spring, Summer and Fall Concerts, held mostly outdoors at the Gazebo at 19 Battle St. in Somers. These ...
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Two steps needed for new senior center

10/14/2021

Wilbraham residents are being asked to approve the funds needed to build a new Senior Center. This letter explains the two steps that are required to bring this question to a vote and get approval ...
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Seniors need a new space

10/14/2021

Twelve years ago, I was invited to join the Friends of Wilbraham Seniors group. At my first meeting I was excited to see how many activities this group and the senior center organize for the senior...
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On the decision to cancel the Biennial

10/13/2021

On Tuesday, Sept. 28, 2021, the Northampton Arts Council voted to cancel this year’s visual art and poetry Biennial. The Biennial was created 15 years ago by several former arts council membe...
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Obstacles should be removed

10/12/2021

Our region’s economic resilience and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic depends on making sure that pathways to opportunity are open and accessible to all.


Shalonda, a single mother i...
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Let’s #getoursh**together

10/5/2021

When we moved to Amherst in 2003, we were surprised that our home relied on a septic system, and was not linked to the town’s sewage system. Our assumption was that our house would be connect...
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Seize the moment to support library

10/5/2021

 I care deeply about sustaining Amherst as an affordable community that will serve and enrich people of all ages, income levels and backgrounds.


That is why I will be voting yes for the...
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Yes to Jones Library

10/5/2021

We are the Amherst town councilors who voted for the Jones Library. Our vote allows the Town to borrow the money necessary to move the Jones Library expansion and renovation project forward and we ...
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Gallery committee supports library project

10/5/2021

The Burnett Gallery Committee is a group of volunteers who are responsible for monthly art shows in the Burnett Gallery in the Jones Library. These monthly shows provide an opportunity to display t...
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Vote for Russo

10/5/2021

I ask the voters of Agawam to cast one of their eleven votes for City Council to Anthony Russo.


Anthony is a person of great character and honesty.  Not only is he a good listener but h...
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Media, do your job!

9/29/2021

The invasion of lawless illegal entry now entering our southern border is reaching staggering numbers. People from all over the world are now flying into Mexico then catching a cab to the southern ...
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Pride in the history that was made on the Green

9/22/2021

Many Longmeadow residents are unaware that, on Sunday, a little piece of history took place on the Longmeadow Town Green. What? On our Green? Yes. It was the first Longmeadow Pride Celebration.

...
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MIT report confirms Select Board concerns

9/22/2021

My name is Diane DiPiero-Saia, a Longmeadow resident, well-educated and as pointed out [Pipeline and climate change weighed by Longmeadow Select Board, Sept. 15] by the Energy and Sustainability&nb...
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After School Issues

9/22/2021

Wilbraham is considered by many to be a great place to live. The schools are excellent, the police station is new, the Fire Department is renovated. The emergency equipment available is state of th...
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Dire need for senior fitness space

9/22/2021

As a resident-business owner in Wilbraham who has instructed many fitness classes and special events at our senior center, I share with urgency that we are in dire need of a larger facility with ap...
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Refund coming?

9/15/2021

I am a long-time resident of East Longmeadow. I would like to know who instituted the stormwater waste charge that is now appearing on our water bills.


When I first inquired about this, the...
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The skate park contradiction: 15k square feet of concrete on conservation land

9/15/2021

I applaud civic engagement, a barometer of a community’s vibrance. However, community developed plans exist to tether that engagement by checking exuberance, ensuring shared majority purpose ...
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Real answers needed

9/15/2021

The recent implementation of mandatory mask policy by the Longmeadow Board of Health was an issue with an employee of the Big Y Supermarket approaching a customer who obviously was not aware of the...
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A historical look at community needs

9/15/2021

Previous letter writers have made good arguments for the need of a new senior center in Wilbraham. Everything from lack of services for elders to making more space to serve a growing population of ...
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What training?

9/15/2021

After being treated to stories about the wonderful training at the Springfield Police Department we find that they cannot read a permit.  If the sergeant was standing idly by and not stopping ...
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Help us #BeThere

9/7/2021

Preventing suicide is a fundamental commitment of the Mental Health Association (MHA). As an organization dedicated to mental health, we are in a unique position to raise the topic, share informati...
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Sarno has made a difference

9/2/2021

Obviously in any political situation, such as a city, there will be both positive and negative views. In my opinion this is a time for some positive comments. I was born and raised in the North End...
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Here’s why I believe in the new senior center

9/2/2021

I was selected by the Wilbraham Board of Selectmen (BOS) to join the Senior Center Building Committee in November 2019. It was important to me to continue the completed work of the Senior Center Fe...
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Dear Ethics Commission, act against Theroux

9/2/2021

The following is an open letter to David A Wilson, Executive Director, Massachusetts State Ethics Commission


We are a group of elected and appointed officials representing municipalities in ...
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How did this happen?

9/2/2021

Some one needs to point out how Afghanistan affects locally. As you mentioned there have been local casualties. This has to be one of the worse retreats in history.


By one count the Taliban ...
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We are experiencing climate change effects

8/25/2021

I appreciate Mr. Dobbs’ opinion in last week’s Reminder reflecting on climate change’s current and potential future impacts. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s ...
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Bring the conceptual work of Senior Center to fruition

8/25/2021

I was selected by the Wilbraham Board of Selectmen (BOS) to join the Senior Center Building Committee in November 2019.  It was important to me to continue the completed work of the Senior Cen...
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Thank you for the mask mandate

8/25/2021

Thank you, thank you Longmeadow town board for making a mask mandate for Longmeadow.  I hope every one follows suit.  Even if you save one life you did the right thing.  I work at th...
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Dobbs creates confusion

8/18/2021

Editor Mike Dobbs’ opinion piece in [the Aug. 5] Reminder creates more confusion than light on the subject of Critical Race Theory (CRT). CRT has become integrally inseparable from the New Yo...
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Will cameras be made more difficult to be used?

8/11/2021

This is Massachusetts where every act must be reacted to with legislation.  A Chicopee policeman spread crime photos around.  He was disciplined, and later left over some other incident.&...
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Light eventually fixed

8/11/2021

I noticed the street light was out between my house and my neighbors house. I called National Grid and reported it. I was told it would take between four to five days to make repairs and here it is...
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Senior center will combat social isolation

8/11/2021

Senior Centers are keenly important for the health of a community and its citizens. According to the National Council on Aging,
“Senior Centers serve as a gateway... connecting older ad...
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You should apologize

8/11/2021

I agree history lessons must be changed and updated through diversity and fairness to all. But CRT [critical race theory] makes whites oppressors and all others including Blacks and brown people as...
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Will cameras be made more difficult to be used?

8/11/2021

This is Massachusetts where every act must be reacted to with legislation.  A Chicopee policeman spread crime photos around.  He was disciplined, and later left over some other incident.&...
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Misunderstandings about senior center vote

8/4/2021

There have been letters published recently that I believe are giving a false tone to the discussion before Wilbraham in regards to a new senior center, and as a member of the Senior Center Building...
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Recognizing how we feel is important

8/3/2021

Grace, strength, pain are not uncommon attributes of a seasoned gymnast, but to see Simone Biles exhibit them in her announcement that mental health concerns had prompted a pause in her participati...
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Senior center site choice was transparent

7/21/2021

The Town of Wilbraham began its efforts for the proposed senior center building long ago. The committee’s report was published in October 2012 and found that the current senior center was ina...
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Roadblocks

7/14/2021

I am convinced that Mitch McConnell and his Republican cohorts are not interested at all in what is best for the USA. I have felt this way for a long time also feeling that McConnell is still not s...
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Priorities

7/14/2021

It is nice to see that the Legislature has its priorities right.


Supposedly our legislative delegation is interested in police reform.  The Civil Service System and the arbitration clau...
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Other towns see benefit of senior center, why not Wilbraham

7/14/2021

We all know about the Baby Boomer generation. This large group of people is an active, involved group of people who will need support to age successfully.


Wilbraham has an adult population o...
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Thanks to all who made the July 4th parade a success

7/14/2021

The largest Western Massachusetts Parade returned in 2021 to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and return from restrictions endured by the nation and world since 2020. It ...
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Special Education students deserve help

7/12/2021

On June 14, 2021, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released its document Further Guidance on Effectively Allocating Resources to Support Recovery and Acceleration. Throughout th...
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SSO musicians concerned about future of Orchestra

6/9/2021

On June 12 at 12 p.m., the Musicians of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra (MOSSO) will gather on the steps of Symphony Hall to call attention to the?precarious state of the Springfield Symphony Or...
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Thank you Fauci, medical staff

6/9/2021

We have a health war against COVID viruses in America and our whole world. We must all work together, as allies and human beings, to act in a preventative and response treatment methods. I wish our...
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Baker should apologize

6/4/2021

Veterans Assisting Veterans is a volunteer nonprofit organization. We note that the Boston Globe Spotlight team’s recent article vindicates the former Massachusetts secretary of veterans&rsqu...
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Welcome back

6/4/2021

As the Holyoke Public Library prepares to reopen its doors to the public on June 14, 2021, the Library employees join our colleagues from Brookline and many other public libraries in expressing our...
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John Hughes: 50 years of tennis and excellence

6/2/2021

Lots of folks around Western Massachusetts have heard, met, or worked with John Hughes on and off the tennis court over the past 50 years. However, some folks may only know John for his work as the...
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Open Bliss Pool

6/2/2021

On the eve of the Memorial Day holidays many in Longmeadow received a email from Longmeadow Parks and Rec. The good news is that the Reynolds Pool at Greenwood will open June 16.


And by the ...
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How long have we waited?

6/2/2021

….as well we should have. The children have their playground and new school, the police have a new building and the firemen have their new building.


Now, it is time for the senior cit...
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Letter from Home Coalition to Gov. Baker

5/28/2021

Dear Governor Baker,


The Holyoke Soldiers' Home Coalition extends our deepest gratitude to you in the creation of the legislation for a new Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke. We also sincerely...
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Fears for Alex Morse realized

5/25/2021

G. Michael Dobbs’ characterization of Holyoke as “really a village” (5/13-19 column) speaks to fears I’ve had for Alex Morse since a fracas erupted, conveniently, on 8/7/202...
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Time for sewer work is now

5/18/2021

Failing Septics on Bradford Drive and all 5 High Areas of Needs has be ignored by the Town of Agawam since the houses were built in the 1970s.


High levels of fecal coli continue to contamina...
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Sewer resolution passed

5/18/2021

At our last council meeting the City Council, after discussion, unanimously voted in favor of the TR-2021-30 resolution in support of the Feeding Hills/ South West Sewage Project. On May 4 the mayo...
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What value does a senior center bring?

5/13/2021

When you hear “senior center,” you probably get a picture of a building filled with older adults playing cards, exercising or sharing a meal. While the main goal of a senior center is t...
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We can’t repeat history

5/13/2021

Our nation’s longest war will end on Sept. 11 with the withdrawal of our remaining troops in Afghanistan. No matter what you think of the war, Americans should unite behind the urgent need to...
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Vote for forward-thinking candidate

5/13/2021

We are supporting Craig Rivest for selectman of Hampden. Craig is a forward thinking businessman who understands the needs of the changing demographics of Hampden. He wants to keep the uniqueness o...
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District puts lawsuit over strategic plan

5/13/2021

In this election season one of the issues, we are facing is that of the school litigation. Unfortunately, it is a far more complicated matter than settle or not settle as expressed in some of the r...
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Frivolous lawsuit shows need for change

5/5/2021

Taxpayers beware! Because of the frivolous lawsuit filed by Mrs. [Mary Ellen] Glover and others, the town of Hampden faces an adverse judgement of between $250,000 and $500,000.


When this su...
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Veterans Memorial Committee awarded $18K grant

4/28/2021

The East Longmeadow Veterans Memorial Committee was recently awarded a Preservation Veterans' Heritage Grant for $18,337 from the Massachusetts State Historical Advisory Board (SHRAB). Veterans Her...
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Lesser’s mistaken, insurance covers damage from crumbling foundations

4/28/2021

I wanted to comment on a Reminder article recently following [state] Sen. Eric Lesser’s update to the East Longmeadow Town Council on the status of the area’s “Crumbling Foundatio...
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Future Senior Center has long history

4/28/2021

I am writing to make your readership aware of efforts in Wilbraham construct a new Senior Center. Members of the Senior Center Building Committee, appointed by the Wilbraham Board of Selectmen, has...
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We need your help

4/19/2021

Solitary confinement was intended to be the harshest of punishments, yet many of our nations’ most vulnerable older adults spend hours, or even days, without any type of human contact. Social...
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I will not run

4/19/2021

I, Anthony C. Bonavita hereby announce that I will not be seeking re-election to the Agawam School Committee or any other seats in the 2021 Agawam election.


As everybody knows COVID has take...
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Transparency required at State House

4/13/2021

Despite our state's reputation as a progressive stronghold, the Massachusetts State House is broken and doesn’t pass valuable legislation that’s supported by a majority of the people. C...
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Wilbraham’s senior pop. continues to grow

4/7/2021

I’d like to follow up on a couple points that Bob Page made in his excellent letter last week. Contrary to what some people believe, seniors are not moving out of Wilbraham. Our senior popula...
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Tragedy

4/7/2021

It is with a heavy heart that I report that William “Billy” Evans, the United States Capitol Police Officer tragically killed yesterday in Washington DC, was a member of the Golden Bear...
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Carol Constant for South Hadley Select Board

4/5/2021

I am writing this in support of Carol Constant for election to the South Hadley Select Board.  As an eight-year resident of Loomis Village in South Hadley, I have had the privilege and pleasur...
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Seek the facts

3/31/2021

Some thoughts.


We have powerful immune systems which protect against viruses. Vitamin D, zinc, mega doses of vitamin C, even garlic will prevent and heal.  


All vaccines can be r...
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We should thank Trump

3/31/2021

The Reminder editor revises history when he claims, “We started the process with not enough vaccine and we can lay the blame for that on the doorstep of the previous presidential administrati...
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Protecting the vote

3/31/2021

John Adams, of Braintree, Massachusetts, was the principal author of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  Our State Constitution went into effect almost 241 years ago (Octob...
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A Fond Farewell and Thanks

3/24/2021

I wish to take this opportunity to say a warm so long to the many friends I made during the 47 years I had the pleasure of living in Wilbraham. Whenever I mowed the lawn or shoveled the driveway on...
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Thank you Birchland PTO

3/24/2021

I am the principal of Birchland Park Middle School in East Longmeadow.  We have offered a hybrid model of learning since January. On April 12th, we are inviting all students to return to schoo...
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Wealth tax in Longmeadow already exists

3/18/2021

Longmeadow wealth tax is already in place.


It is called a local Property Tax, and it exists in all cities and towns.


As the nation and State debate the wisdom of wealth taxes on the 1...
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Not ready for de-masking

3/16/2021

The problem will be, with reduced masking compliance is that two major variants that escape the triggering of the immune system are now starting to become widely distributed.


For those prev...
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Maple syrup production misunderstanding

3/16/2021

On March 4, the Chicopee Herald carried a very interesting article on local maple syrup production. I make maple syrup in my backyard and sell it at farmers markets. I have two degrees in forestry....
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Taxes will increase

3/15/2021

Get ready for an increase in the fire tax. At the Feb. 24 Prudential Committee Meeting, the Fire Chief proposed adding two additional Advance Life Support (ALS) paramedics to the Fire Department, b...
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Question for the governor

3/10/2021

Why is Gov. Baker giving our tax dollars to Palmer Renewable to pollute Springfield, acknowledged as the “asthma capital of the U.S.” by The National Asthma and Allergy Association and ...
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Thank you to our local leaders

3/10/2021

Although some say my youthful visage belies my 75-plus years, I was grateful that  the accumulation of three quarters of a century’s existence made me eligible for Covid 19 vaccines at t...
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Vaccinations leave homebound seniors behind

3/10/2021

I am currently staying with my mother here in East Longmeadow, taking care of her during the pandemic. She is a homebound senior who is restricted to a wheelchair and who has an extremely hard time...
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Radicalization goes both ways

3/9/2021

This is a response to: “Exploring the radicalization of the American right .” First and foremost, thanks to the Reminder for providing a print channel to express views!


We believ...
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Agawam misses the charge with missing data

2/23/2021

The council misses the charge at seven electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.  Agawam asks users to pay $1 per kilowatt.  The dollar represents $.60 per kilowatt for supply/delivery and...
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Home is a duplication of efforts

2/15/2021

Why do we need a Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke while the Veterans Administration has a hospital in nearby Northampton? It appears to be a duplication of effort.  How many of them really need...
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What will I do to move nation forward?

2/3/2021

I will probably stick to my ideological guns, such as the Bill of Rights.


We are seeing proposals for censorship, less election security etc. I do not consider that progress.


There wa...
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Where was Dobbs the last four years?

2/3/2021

I’m an old friend of the Buendo family and have kidded Chris ever since your hiring. My take is that you’re much smarter than I am word-wise, but share an equal love for our country, an...
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Shocked and disgusted

2/3/2021

As I drove down the western end of Maple Street yesterday, I was shocked and disgusted to see a homeowner flying our American flag upside down. I will not give the address, but anyone who travels t...
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America needs to unite

2/1/2021

America, at this time, can not continue to create animosities among the American people. Now is the time to bring our country together. I genuinely believe the Biden-Harris team will be an essentia...
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Biden’s big tasks

1/27/2021

Biden has a big agenda to face when he comes into office. Climate change is urgent if we want our grandchildren to have any kind of life. Twenty-twenty was the hottest year on record (tied with 201...
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Legacy of retiring coach

1/27/2021

There is much fanfare with former UMass hoop star Lou Roe coming on board to coach our Putnam Vocational Technical Academy team, which is fine, but just as much fanfare, if not more should be given...
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Censorship is wrong

1/27/2021

The argument that “the Internet is my property and I can do whatever I want with it” is a poor argument to allow censorship and fact checking based on opinion.  Social media is the...
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Stir the pot

1/21/2021

The time for action regarding the election was long ago. I did not like Nixon, but no one doubted that he won the election. I am not fan of Rudy Guiliani, but he said he had over 1,000 affidavits o...
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Trump has wounded our democracy

1/21/2021

Trump has deeply wounded our democracy and our nation. Some Republicans say we should not impeach him but rather let him leave office and let the nation heal. Not  possible. This wound is so s...
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Guardian Angels

1/21/2021

To the reassuring, gracious individuals who gave of their time, expertise and positive caring concern – as well as the EMT and Hampden Fire Department – a heartfelt thank you for all yo...
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What damage will he do

12/31/2020

It feels as though one man has taken control of the USA, and not for the betterment of the country, but rather to satisfy his own ego needs which are never-ending. So much for improving our country...
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New schools for Agawam?

12/28/2020

I was wondering why Agawam can’t seem to get a new school. Whether it’s a sorely needed preschool or high school, is it the state not seeing the need or is it a lack of trying? West Spr...
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Thank you, Ben at PVRRC

12/28/2020

On Friday morning, I was about to cross the North End Bridge – the light changed, I put my foot on the accelerator, and nothing happened. Helpless in the center lane, cars honked, people yell...
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Don’t forget about society’s vulnerable children

11/16/2020

With the changing world COVID-19 has placed on us, we as a society have been forced to change the way we live our lives and in many ways this pandemic has awoken us to discover what is important in...
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Response to William Caplin's letter

10/30/2020




William Caplin's letter (Republican-10/29 regarding Trump) is interesting to say the least. He references things t...
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Trump is destorying the country

10/30/2020

Having witnessed several Presidential elections I think that this one has caused more divisiveness in this country than anyone has seen since the Civil War. One man – Donald Trump – has...
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Vote for Uncle Joe and the KGB

10/30/2020

For all the people who wrote letters professing their utter hatred for Donald Trump, I just want to say I sympathize with you. If I watched and read only mainstream -MSS-media (because you know, FO...
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A wonderful man

10/30/2020

Would the Real Donald Trump  - Please Stand up…


Donald Trump is NOT a politician.    


Donald Trump is NOT a polished political speaker.


Donald Trump ...
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Reaction to column

9/29/2020

As a Christian I can’t quote scripture to show where Jesus spoke disparagingly about people like him. All I know is that he died for me on the cross and he died for an atheist on the cross an...
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Wi-Fi tips and tricks for work, learning remotely

9/29/2020

For many reasons home Wi-Fi is frequently neglected.  Maybe intentionally to encourage kids to play outside or not spend so much time in front of a screen.  Maybe it helps make working fr...
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Markey is a socialist

9/18/2020

Markey’s quote “It’s time to start asking what your country can do for you.”


In one campaign video, Markey also paraphrased a famous JFK quote, “Ask not what yo...
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Let’s work together

9/10/2020

I have purposely waited to write this letter so to digest the situation and issues facing our School Committee and town.


As a School Committee member I have always acted with the best intere...
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A letter from Sen. Velis

9/10/2020

Hello everyone!


Although I have only been state senator for the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire district for three months, it has been a packed time period, and I wanted to give you all an update ...
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Roadblocks

8/18/2020

Over that last several weeks I have noticed that there are many roadblocks in our lives aside from Covid-19 if that was not enough to knock us all off kilter. I say this after talking with several ...
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Send children back to school

8/18/2020

“Is teaching children an essential service?” asked members of the West Springfield Republican Town Committee (RTC).


While nurses and doctors have worked through the virus pandemi...
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Hybrid learning leaves unanswered questions

8/10/2020

Dear Agawam Community,


I want to address my rationale for not supporting the hybrid model that was voted on by a 4-3 margin during the School Committee meeting held on August 7. I am the par...
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School year should start remotely

8/10/2020

I am writing to you to inform you that the Agawam School Committee voted for our re-entry plan to schools on 8/7/20.  The final vote was a hybrid model, which are students and teachers will be...
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Mascot changes

8/10/2020

The Reminder article (July 23rd) outlined proposed state legislation that would require  Massachusetts schools to change mascots and logo's associated with Native Americans. Additionally anoth...
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Climate deception and state law: a groundbreaking approach

8/10/2020

It has been reported recently that Minnesota Attorney General, Keith Ellison, has filed a ground-breaking lawsuit in state court against Exxon Mobil, Koch Industries, and The American Petroleum Ins...
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Outrageous legislature tactics handling police reform bill

7/30/2020

The intent of this letter is to condemn the outrageous tactics of the Massachusetts legislature in its handling of the so called police reform bill and not to discuss the contents thereof.


O...
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Community college – worth a second look

7/30/2020

Many thanks to Payton North for extolling the benefits of community college as a viable higher education choice in the article Community College: a quality education for a fraction of the price, Ju...
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Brewery has right to use Duke

7/9/2020

The word duke, as in the Iron Duke Beer is in reference to the the former Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives who represented Ludlow as part of his district, and has nothing to do...
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School Committee no longer effective

7/9/2020

Editor’s Note: The following is a resignation letter addressed to Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School Committee Chair Patrick Kiernan.
    
Patrick,...
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COVID deaths could have been prevented

7/8/2020

Statistics help explain why the Covid-19 pandemic, which has claimed more than 125,000 lives, continues to rage in the United States. The most shocking and tragic statistic is that the U.S. could h...
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Police Issues

6/17/2020

I am very sympathetic to those who have suffered due to police brutality. However I do find some of the material that comes through the media and other sources very disturbing. There are some react...
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Flynn has earned reelection

6/17/2020

I am pleased to offer my support to the current Selectman John Flynn in his reelection bid. John has served the Town of Hampden for many years as a selectman and his vast knowledge of the workings ...
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Town Meeting warrant is contradictory

6/17/2020

Unfortunately, despite its length, its tone is frequently self-contradictory, and some proposals devoid of necessary explanation.


Clearly, the writers of Articles in this warrant have two ve...
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Tick season has begun

5/27/2020

If you remove a tick, save and send it for testing which will determine the type of tick and if it was carrying pathogens. Ticks can transmit pathogens other than Lyme disease such as babesiosis, a...
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Safe voting in Longmeadow

5/27/2020

Dear Resident,


The town of Longmeadow is concerned about protecting your right to vote in a safe manner. We are planning to open the polls with protective measures in place. The polls will b...
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Ban should be delayed

5/27/2020

Thousands of local businesses will face economic calamity on June 1, 2020, when Massachusetts ‘Bans the Sale of Menthol Cigarettes’, and strips these products from their shelves, at a t...
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Hope

5/20/2020

We all are trying to wrap our heads around what has happened and what it will be like when we begin to reintegrate ourselves back in the main stream of life. Knowing that we all gain our strength, ...
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Providing masks would help residents

5/12/2020

The city of Chicopee should try to provide COVID-19 face masks to the residents of Chicopee. Several communities in Western Massachusetts have provided COVID-19 face masks to their residents.


<
...
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Humanity is Beautiful

5/7/2020

The world is closed
But our hospitals are open
Our faces are covered
But our fears are exposed.
 
Our heroes are abundant
In healthcare
at fire and police st...
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HWEA Cares

5/7/2020

Wilbraham School Committee member William Bontempi was mistaken when he recently said that the Hampden Wilbraham Education Association (HWEA) “didn’t care” about possible staff re...
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Rotary Club Responds to Western Mass. Needs

5/7/2020

Joining many other not-for-profit groups and citizens across Western Massachusetts supporting those in need during the pandemic and recovery planning, the Rotarians of East Longmeadow have coordina...
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An Open Letter to East Longmeadow Residents

4/8/2020

On behalf of the East Longmeadow Town Council, I hope you are staying safe and healthy amidst the current health crisis.  The purpose of my letter is to keep you up to date on your local gover...
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Volunteer for meals on wheels

3/11/2020

Meals On Wheels is one of the most important and utilized services provided by Pleasant View Senior Center in East Longmeadow. The Center delivers an average of 50 home-delivered meals every weekda...
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Thank you

3/11/2020

The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation donated $2,000 towards the construction of the East Longmeadow Veterans Memorial to be located at 328 N. Main Street, East Longmeadow.


The East ...
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What is happening?

2/26/2020

What in the world is happening to the world ?  Passing by impeachment let me go to Western Massachusetts.  It is 20 degrees outside and downtown Springfield is blocked off to accommodate ...
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Reconsider school calendar

2/26/2020

The East Longmeadow Education Association (ELEA) recently learned of the school committee’s decision to dismiss the school year calendar that has been in place since 2007.   Althoug...
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Is he concerned about the country?

1/22/2020

I would like Mr. Trump to explain why he is so determined to derail the impeachment process if, in fact as he always says, he hasn't done anything wrong. Just the fact that he has forbidden people ...
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To the Longmeadow Select Board

1/22/2020

There have been more than enough comments about the new trash barrels in Longmeadow but I must add one more voice on that subject.


1. The design of the trash barrels is inferior.  I hav...
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Mayor Pete impresses

1/22/2020

With cheers and wild applause the audience erupts as Pete Buttigieg takes the stage. Overspilling with excitement and hope, the crowd anticipates the phenomenon they have come from near and far to ...
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Does he care?

1/2/2020

If this wasn’t such sad situation it could be almost humorous. Every time I see the comments about Mr. Trump testifying “under oath” it makes me wonder who really believes that &l...
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Private employers are irreplaceable

1/2/2020

When you consider the money spent by our national, state and local governments, to pay, not only their elected officials, but also the employees of their staffs, agencies, including all of the welf...
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I love Christmas music

12/23/2019

Payton,


I read your Christmas Music article in last week's Pennysaver with great interest.  It was like you were writing about my childhood.  While I'm probably of your mom's gener...
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Holiday Music

12/23/2019

When I read your article in The Reminder, I couldn't help but to support you!  Yes,I absolutely love all Christmas music. Or maybe not all of it (Dominic the donkey) but 90 percent.  ...
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Why I’m not issuing a letter

12/23/2019

As a proud life-long resident of Springfield and in response to a City Council resolution – No, I will not be issuing a letter of consent to the White House, U.S. Department of State, the U.S...
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I love Christmas, and Thanksgiving

12/23/2019

Hi Payton!


I saw your "Opinion" piece in the Chicopee Reminder. I have to admit that I refuse to decorate before Thanksgiving because I love that holiday also.


But my favorit...
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Grinch

12/23/2019

Dear Payton,


I couldn't help but laugh out loud after reading your column on your scrooge co-workers. But I must say I really can't blame them. It may be the most wonderful time of the year ...
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My Christmas playlist

12/23/2019

Hi Payton-


Thanks for your column today - we are aligned! I¹m a 60 year old guy who has been developing an eclectic Christmas playlist for the last 10 years or so; I literally spend hou...
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Thank you

12/3/2019

My name is Ray Cammisa I am a member of Disabled Americans Veterans (DAV) chapter 11 Chicopee, MA.


Over this past summer we held our Forget-Me-Not (blue flower) fund raiser. The purpose of t...
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Disagrees with mayor

12/3/2019

I would like to congratulate the town of Agawam for joining the other 100 communities in the state for overwhelmingly voting down recreational sale of cannabis in their town.


The reason why ...
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Upcoming senior center public forum

11/6/2019

Dear Wilbraham Residents,


At the Oct. 28 Selectmen’s meeting, a major step forward was initiated by the board regarding the long-awaited proposed new Senior Center in Wilbraham. A pub...
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Donate to Veterans Memorial Committee

11/6/2019

The East Longmeadow Veterans Memorial Committee is raising funds to construct a Veterans Memorial at 328 N. Main Street (Senior Center).  This Veterans Memorial will be dedicated to honor and ...
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To residents of Longmeadow

10/31/2019

I strongly encourage you to attend the upcoming Town Meeting to be held on Tuesday, November 5, at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium.  There will be two related articles where resident will...
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Manufacturing is vital

10/23/2019

Like countless other families, manufacturing allowed my family to pursue the American Dream. My grandfather was a tool and die maker in Brooklyn, and was able to support a family of five on that sa...
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Vote McAuliffe

10/23/2019

I write today in support of my best friend Joel McAuliffe who is seeking re-election to his Ward 1 City Council seat in our hometown of Chicopee. Two years ago, I wrote that there was no one better...
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Thank you

10/2/2019

Over the past few days, I have reflected on the recent preliminary election in Chicopee. I would like to express my gratitude to all of you who exercised your right to vote and I am humbled by the ...
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We need to invest in education

10/2/2019

Like most families, autumn brings both great excitement and some butterflies into my household. We are enthusiastic about the possibilities of a new school year, but also nervous about starting a n...
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Thank you

9/18/2019

Kudos to our East Longmeadow neighbors, SWEAT Power Yoga, for their generous support of Springfield Education Association’s Tools 4 Teaching (T4T). Established in 2010, T4T accepts gently use...
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Weeds out of control

9/18/2019

We just went through another summer with vegetation along our roads out of control. It makes Connecticut and Massachusetts look like they are going out of business.  Sure it takes money to mai...
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Vote Yes on Number One

8/7/2019

I am writing to encourage my fellow Longmeadow residents to attend the special town meeting at Longmeadow High School on Aug. 20 and to vote YES on Article 1.


A “Yes” vote will b...
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Pipeline awareness group does not support health and safety risks

8/7/2019

In the July 25-31 issue of The Reminder, I read with interest the reasons given by Longmeadow Select Board members for their votes regarding the Town’s use of Chapter 61B rights.


When ...
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Appreciates donation

7/24/2019

I would like to comment on a situation I observed last week in the East Longmeadow library. A mother was ahead of me in line with three children. The oldest must have been eight or nine. They were ...
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Please consider helping

6/11/2019

Everyone at the Community Survival Center is grateful to the Springfield Fire Department for their recent quick response to our call about a burning smell. The fire fighters tracked the source of t...
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Vote Ryan for Longmeadow School Committee

6/5/2019

To my fellow citizens of Longmeadow:


My name is James Ryan.  I am an Eagle Scout, a public school teacher, a veteran policymaker, and I’m running for School Committee.


From...
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Reduce, reuse, recycle

5/22/2019

Recently Marie Kondo sparked a craze of simplifying your life, with the by line, “Does this item spark joy?” Now people all over the globe are taking part in cleansing the soul and home...
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I would appreciate your vote

5/1/2019

Voters in East Longmeadow will go to the polls on June 4 to elect three residents to Town Council and two to School Committee.    I am running for Town Council, along with incumbent ...
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Fake President

5/1/2019

I am no longer surprised by anything that the “Teflon Don” does or says and I certainly do not see any humor in the nonsense and “fake news” that seems to be a major part of...
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Morse, thank you from West Springfield

5/1/2019

Morse, thank you from West Springfield In Richard Powers’ Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Overstory,” a character cites an old proverb that inquires as to the optimal time to pl...
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Support J-brake ban

4/24/2019

At the Longmeadow Town Meeting at Longmeadow High School on May 14, please support the ban of j-brake (jake-brake) usage by large commercial trucks in and on the streets in residential neighborhood...
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Van commuters underscore need for mass transit

4/24/2019

Earlier this month, I took a ride in a van.


It wasn’t just any old van – it was a vehicle rented by half a dozen Western Mass. residents who commute to Boston every day for work....
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What are you trying next?

4/24/2019

Great article about the response to the number one donut!


I have eaten many donuts in my day and I, also, grade them.


Dunkin Donuts are terrible.


Mrs. Murphy’s are good, ...
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What are you trying next?

4/24/2019

Great article about the response to the number one donut!


I have eaten many donuts in my day and I, also, grade them.


Dunkin Donuts are terrible.


Mrs. Murphy’s are good, ...
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What are you trying next?

4/24/2019

Great article about the response to the number one donut!


I have eaten many donuts in my day and I, also, grade them.


Dunkin Donuts are terrible.


Mrs. Murphy’s are good, ...
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Fair tax is not fair

4/16/2019

The so-called “Fair Tax” is a way for the elite who manage our economy to solve a problem which they have created.  Since they shipped so many jobs to cheap labor countries the Ame...
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Exciting times

4/16/2019

Wonderful things are taking place in the Chicopee, Holyoke, Springfield area that go unreported. An increasing number of people in the Pioneer Valley have developed a mind of their own and no longe...
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New Adult Center discussed at meeting

3/20/2019

The Town of Longmeadow is holding a special town meeting on March 26 after a citizen filed a petition asking that the New Adult Center be built according to the preliminary plan presented at the An...
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Unions don’t get it

3/20/2019

Robert Underwood makes some very good points about the tangled web of commissions, councils, and unions that all try and manage police issues.


However, what was not discussed why the same pr...
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I’ll vote no

3/20/2019

For close to a decade, many residents  worked diligently to advocate for a new Adult Center In Longmeadow.  While on the sidelines, I watched and listened at various committee meetings as...
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Come to meeting

3/14/2019

Come one come all! Bring your friends and neighbors!  Finally, after a long wait, we are happy to report that the Public Hearing by FERC will be held in the Longmeadow High School Auditorium o...
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City Council not talking about issue

3/6/2019

Under the old Police Commission many of the problems in the Springfield Police Department would not have come to light. Barbieri seems to have faced some issues head-on rather than avoiding them.&n...
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Find time to say thanks

3/6/2019

We need to remember to recognize all the hard-working men and women who do a difficult jobs every day: DPW, trash collectors, mail carriers, nurses, police, and fire are just a few examples.


...
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Bill Makes Sense

3/6/2019

As reported by The Reminder (Feb. 21, 2019, Dobbs), Senator Eric Lesser’s proposed legislation for a Western Massachusetts ‘remote worker incentive program’ is merited with great ...
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We need people to stand up for America

12/12/2018

I simply cannot fathom how anyone who has the ability to reason can be supportive of the ego-maniacal, womanizing, pathological liar who currently disgraces the office of the President of this coun...
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Memorial School should be location

12/12/2018

I think Memorial School is a good building to house our Senior Center, Recreation Office, Veteran’s Agent and Senior and Veteran’s Housing. I have corresponded with John Catlin, the New...
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School Committee should reconsider

12/12/2018

I attended the Nov. 28 Longmeadow School Committee (SC) meeting and listened to the praise for Superintendent Dr. Martin O’Shea by teachers and by a group of students;  I was indeed impr...
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Facebook isn’t for intelligent conversation

12/12/2018

Some Facebook Comments are simply name calling.  But in many cases the postings are by political “activists” whom I believe are simply following orders.    


T...
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More Questions About Longmeadow Metering Station

11/20/2018

I read with interest last week’s Letter to the Editor regarding the proposed sale of Longmeadow Country Club property so that a gas metering station can be built. To the ques-tions posed in l...
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Questions about land sale

11/14/2018

Imagine my surprise when I learned last week that Longmeadow Country Club members will soon be voting on an option agreement for the sale of two acres of land to Tennessee Gas so that a gas meterin...
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Smear campaign

10/31/2018

Marie Angelides has now found names that were forged just two weeks before the election. How all of a sudden would Ms. Angelides know where to look for these signatures? Anyone can sign someone els...
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Republicans endorsed

10/31/2018

The East Longmeadow Republican Town Committee met Saturday, Oct. 20 to endorse candidates for the November state election.  The committee voted unanimously to endorse local candidate for State...
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Vote for Flannery

10/31/2018

My name is Donald J. Flannery and I am running for State Representative in the 12th Hampden District to replace Angelo Puppolo. I want for you, the bills that Angelo voted against.


I will w...
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I am a partisan

10/31/2018

Over the years I have been accused of supporting a partisan agenda in my arguing for a massive wave of support for Democratic candidates. Folks are saying the same thing about me with respect to th...
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I support Diehl

10/31/2018

I am concerned about the opioid crisis.  We have lost too many lives to this terrible epidemic.  We need leadership to address the issues of treatment, prevention and stopping the flow of...
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Shameful process

10/18/2018

Is there anyone who was surprised by the outcome of the Kavanaugh fiasco? I remain convinced that this all started when the almighty leadership of the Republican Party refused to even meet with the...
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Vote for Angelides

10/18/2018

The race to pick a new Hampden County Register of Deeds in the upcoming November election is probably not on most voters’ radar screen, but it should be.  The person elected will be in c...
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Questions trash policy

9/20/2018

Everyone becomes angry at their municipality from time to time.  Once a week, because again unable to meet an impossible standard, is way too often.


A few weeks ago Republic’s blu...
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Lively could have won

9/13/2018

Dr. Scott Lively (lawyer and evangelical Christian) lost his bid for governor by a wide margin. However, if just a small percentage of the vast, vast amount of churchgoers who didn’t bother t...
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Thank you

9/13/2018

I am humbled by the outpouring of support on elections day Sept. 4. Gracias, thank you for sending a strong message to Boston that the Springfield progressive voice in the 10th Hampden District is ...
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Lock him up

9/13/2018

What have we come to? We have a man in the White House who is no more deserving of the esteemed title of President of the United States than his two closest friends and allies – Putin and Kim...
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This veteran is not offended

9/13/2018

As I see videos of people protesting the Nike/Kaepernick deal by buying expensive Nike merchandise and destroying it, I’m torn between amusement and disgust.  I’m amused that these...
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I have questions about merger

9/7/2018

After years of discussing it, Chicopee is finally moving forward with plans to merge city and school departments that are redundant.  The idea behind all of this is that by merging departments...
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Will banning straws help?

9/5/2018

We are now on a campaign to eliminate plastic straws from all places that serve drinks in containers.  Will this really solve the problem?  Granted we will eliminate billions of plastic s...
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A tale of two employers

8/30/2018

This weekend, our city welcomed a new community partner. MGM Springfield officially opened their doors Friday and has been operating at full speed all weekend. I did join my wife opening night to s...
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Business success depends on customers’ success

8/23/2018

The success of small businesses depends on well paid customers with disposable income. More people work for others than own small businesses. Many of the products we want, such as automobiles, depe...
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We’re here to help

8/23/2018

Last year alone, drug overdoses killed 72,000 Americans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, that record number reflects a 10 percent increase from the year before. In Mass...
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Transparency is vital

8/23/2018

On Aug. 17, I read a story in our local paper about our state’s Attorney General offering open meeting law training in an effort to “better educate elected officials and the public on t...
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These people have done nothing wrong

8/9/2018

Trump has been unable to reunite all immigrant families separated under his direction. Some parents have been deported without their children and without contact information. Some parents have chos...
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I am disgusted

8/9/2018

I went to the East Longmeadow post office this morning to pick up a box in which I was going to mail some candy, cookies etc. to a friend who is a major in the Army serving now in Afghanistan. The ...
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Medicare for all

8/9/2018

I support Medicare for All. My opponent does not. My seven-year old daughter survived open heart surgery when she was a newborn. Her recovery was rough, but she had a great prognosis. As a family, ...
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Please attend meeting

7/26/2018



This construction has been made possible by your vote to approve Article 10 at the Special Town Meeting on November 2017.


Article 10: “To see if the town will vote to accep...
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Shriners Hospital valuable to region’s children

7/19/2018

The report of the latest expansion of services at our Springfield Shriners Hospital serves as a clear reminder of the Shriners’s continuing investment in the most valuable asset that exists f...
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Fireworks delay explained

7/19/2018

The East Longmeadow Rotary Club, the sponsoring organization for this year’s East Longmeadow Fireworks held on July 3, 2018, regrets the delay in starting the fireworks.  Technical probl...
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Support Head Gear Bill

7/19/2018

My Soccer Head Gear Legislation is just the start in preventing concussions and head injuries in Massachusetts. Under the new concussion law, which was passed a few years ago also, I have the right...
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Dobbs should not have written about Daniels

7/5/2018


So the editor of this family newspaper proudly announces in last week’s Opinion Column that he went and viewed an over-the-hill porn “star” because she happens to be suing t...
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Open letter

6/27/2018

Sir: This is an open letter to the media, especially the White House Press corps. Why haven’t your reporters been asking Trump or his press secretary these questions?


1. If you are so...
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Citizens prevail, city benefits

6/27/2018

An increase in property tax revenue of well over $600,000 per year is the result of a Ten Taxpayer suit that charged the Springfield Board of Assessors of undervaluing billboards, cell towers and c...
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Quite a trio

6/21/2018

I wonder if anyone has thought about the meeting between Mr. Trump and Kim from a sort of historical perspective. While this meeting has generated a lot of media coverage and a certain amount of op...
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It’s our turn

6/7/2018

There has been recent controversy over South Congregational Church’s decision to shelter a Peruvian national facing deportation. Mayor Domenic Sarno claimed that he would take action against ...
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Thank you

6/7/2018

The ERC5-East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce would like to take a moment and thank our committee, sponsors, guests and vendors for supporting the 2018 Feast in the East. Our Chamber pro...
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Best hope

6/7/2018

Fox News (more propaganda than news) claims it is time to shut down the Mueller investigation because it has gone on too long and nobody cares anymore. By comparison, the Whitewater investigation w...
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I'm puzzled

5/31/2018

As news comes out daily about the irrational actions of the person currently occupying the White House I remain puzzled as to why anyone – Democrat, Republican or Independent – can supp...
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What is Trump’s true motive?

5/24/2018

Trump and Bolton talk about the “reality” that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and therefore the US Embassy belongs there. They never mention the “reality” that Jerusalem...
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Opposition to Ashe’s Willie Ross Funding

5/24/2018

I read with interest the article in last week’s Reminder regarding State funding obtained by Brian Ashe on behalf of Willie Ross School for the Deaf (WRSD) for their Capital Improvement proje...
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Oppose sports betting and online gambling

5/24/2018

Regarding your article that the recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court could mean sports betting could come to Massachusetts:


You are darn right it could come here as well as all other ty...
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School shootings and gun control

5/24/2018

In the aftermath of the Parkland school shooting, gun control and gun rights activists were activated and began their respective marches. One side calling for policies that remove and restrict acce...
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Memorial Day

5/24/2018

On May 18 the Longmeadow Veterans hosted Gerry Izzo, CWO4, U.S. army retired and Peter R. Squeglia Jr, a Black Hawk helicopter pilot and Army Ranger from the Battle of Mogadishu. Both participated ...
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Has questions for Puppolo

5/18/2018

I read your opinion article and whole heartedly agree with you. Why hasn’t our State Representative, Angelo Puppolo been more help in getting us, in the greater Springfield area, more equal t...
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I support a cruelty-free circus

5/18/2018

The Melha Shrine Circus just returned, and unfortunately, so did the elephants, tigers, horses, and dogs. In 2016 the Melha Shriners chose to live up to their mission to foster “the perpetuat...
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We need a contract

5/18/2018

We the people urgently need our police patrolling the streets and we need a fair contract that takes Springfield into consideration. Recently there has been controversy over what constitutes a fair...
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Waiting for scraps

5/18/2018

A little more than three months have passed since I formally launched my campaign to represent Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Hampden and Monson in the Second Hampden District of the Massachusetts Ho...
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What is Longmeadow’s new adult community center?

5/3/2018

By now you likely have read and heard a lot about the Town’s plans to build a new Senior Center.  What you likely have read and heard little or nothing about is the Town’s plans to...
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No sugar coating

4/26/2018

There’s no sugar-coating it: Massachusetts is facing another emergency in our state’s fight against the opioid epidemic. Two years after the state legislature created a bulk purchasing ...
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We need a new center

4/26/2018

How often have you heard from a older person in your life say “Don’t worry, I am fine.” Or “Don't throw that away. There is a quarter  inch of milk left!” Or &ldq...
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Support a new senior center

4/19/2018

There has been a lot of discussion about the Longmeadow Senior Center for several years with many options being opposed. Finally, we have a proposal and a design to replace the existing Senior Cent...
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It’s our turn

4/19/2018

The Springfield City Council recently wrote a letter to Mayor Domenic Sarno criticizing him for having a “lack of diversity” among his department heads. In the 382 years of Springfield&...
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Mayor doing his job

4/12/2018

As I followed the various news items related to Ms. Collazo and her family regarding the status of the church sanctuary matter, I found some things a bit confusing and other things that I felt were...
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We need a new senior center

4/12/2018

There are over 4,509 senior residents in the Town of Longmeadow. Additionally, there are currently 2,666  people between the ages of 50 and 60.  The elder population will continue to grow...
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It’s a shame

4/12/2018

On Monday night the Springfield City Council passed a meaningless resolution directing City Departments to make Springfield a Sanctuary City. As a strong mayor city they have no authority to do thi...
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Hollywood is silent

4/5/2018

Let me see if I have this right, you must be 21 to buy cigarettes but not to buy marijuana.  Now they want you to be 21 to buy a gun.  Seems to me then you must be 21 before you can be se...
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Sarno has nothing to fear

4/5/2018

Your March 29 opinion piece about the South Congregational Church in Springfield granting “sanctuary” to an illegal alien does not identify the crux of the problem:  Mayor Sarno is...
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Prayers are needed

3/29/2018

Very relevant to the topic of school shootings is whether the shooters were taking prescription anti-depressants, a side effect of which can be violent behavior.  Information published by reno...
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Polticians prefer unarmed peasants

3/29/2018

It does not surprise me that former presidents were able to work across party lines to promote gun control, or citizen disarmament.  I once saw a bumper sticker with the message “politic...
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Misplaced anger

3/22/2018

I am not a gun owner nor a member of the NRA and I have no interest in either of those items. I have no issue with people owning guns, other than assault weapons, which should be only in the hands ...
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Dobbs owes us an apology

3/22/2018

Hi, Reminder folks. Thanks for showing up on my doorstep every week. You perform an important service.


Another thank you: I have followed the writings of Managing Editor G. Michael Dobbs. He...
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Ask Portugal

3/15/2018

We have the power to end drug overdose deaths now. We can pull the rug out from under the traffickers and pushers by legalizing all drugs. Taking away the profits will end the business. Trump says ...
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Council flip flops

3/15/2018

Monday evening, March 5, the Springfield City Council voted against tax increment financing (TIF), refusing to grant tax incentives to a business that would have dramatically expanded the market ra...
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Springfield is making progress

3/15/2018

I’d like to join Allen Zippen, who recently wrote about the progress that the city of Springfield is making, progress that has implications for the entire region.  To Mr. Zippen’s ...
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Say no to armed teachers

3/8/2018

I have been involved in civic affairs for over 50 years. In that time I have witnessed every kind of attitude, con job, gamesmanship that you can think of; but of late it has really gone over the t...
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Reconsider

3/8/2018

On Thursday March 8th, Wilbraham Republicans will host Republican gubernatorial candidate Scott Lively, who identifies as a Christian pastor.


Mr. Lively co-founded an organization, Watchmen ...
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Springfield is moving forward

3/1/2018

Although I currently live in Longmeadow I was born and raised in the North End and East Springfield areas of Springfield and I still consider Springfield to be my “home town.” I think i...
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Thoughts on guns

3/1/2018

Some thoughts on guns and our current gun problem:


1. People should not be allowed to store guns in their homes. Instead they should be stored in a municipal lock up under the control of leg...
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Endorsement for Starks

2/22/2018

Sid Starks of East Longmeadow is running for Republican State Committeeman from the 1st Hampden/Hampshire district in a special election March 7. Sid is a long time Republican, former chairman of t...
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Don't forget walking

2/22/2018

As Congress crafts their responses to the White House's proposed infrastructure bill, we need a balanced transportation system that includes roads, transit, rail lines, and trail networks. We can't...
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Developer didn't help himself

2/22/2018

On Feb. 13, the Pine Point Community Council voted not to support developer Nick Graham's proposal to build 14 townhouse apartments on the old Russell's Restaurant site on Boston Road.


For t...
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State Rep. Angelo Puppolo Voted Himself a Raise

2/15/2018

According to many sources, that I have read, there were nine Democratic representatives who did vote against the bill for a raise in pay, but he was not one of them.


I have several reports f...
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A bad trend

2/15/2018

Shifting the cost of training to the applicant is very bad trend which has been happening for some time.  It has not been as visible because public money was used for the training in the form ...
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Fake President

2/15/2018

Democrats or Republicans –  neither group really matters anymore in today’s environment. Mr. Trump does not demonstrate the qualities and values of either party as he runs roughsho...
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Surprised at pay

2/8/2018

I never would have guessed that a casino would pay so little. I do not advise my kids on spending $1,000 in education to acquire skills to earn $5 per hour. Tips? The information from most people I...
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Support legislation

2/1/2018

I ask for all legislators in Western Massachusetts and all soccer players statewide to support House Bill number 220 concussion and head injury to help prevent concussions in soccer.  My bill ...
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The Springfield you don’t know

1/25/2018

Recently, Springfield Mayor Dominic Sarno spoke of the need for a more positive message in all things to do with our fair city, I believe he said something about the Springfield you may not know. A...
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The fight ahead

1/18/2018

Imagine your daughter is addicted to prescription opioids after treating injuries from a car accident. After haggling with insurance companies and hounding state agencies, you have finally secured ...
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Vote no

1/18/2018

Regardless of the self-proclaimed title, should we trust real estate investors to preserve the character of Longmeadow? The group applying to change the home from residential to commercial zoning a...
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Slippery slope?

1/18/2018

As a realtor in Longmeadow for the past 14 years, I want to publicly add my support for the re-zoning required to convert the Brewer Young Mansion from single-family occupancy to professional use. ...
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Please attend Town Meeting

1/11/2018

On Thursday, Jan. 25 there is will a special town meeting in Longmeadow. The residents of Longmeadow will be making an important decision regarding the Town Green. The discussion is framed by the f...
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Can something be done with closed church?

1/11/2018

Rev. Mitchell T. Rozanski bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield MA announced that Our Lady of the Rosary will be shutting its doors after 9:00 mass on January 28, 2018.


A churc...
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Winter warms his heart

1/3/2018

Studies show that swarms of people in the Pioneer Valley are, as of late, coming to realize that Global Warming is truly a farce. Blue lips and red-and-teary-cold-eyes are trending from Bernardston...
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We get what we deserve

1/3/2018

In a recent New York Times column, “We’re with stupid,” Timothy Egan wrote: “The problem is not the Russians – it’s us.... A huge percentage of the population ca...
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Alliance not spreading the truth

1/3/2018

I read with interest The Reminder article about the propaganda campaign launched by the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance to smear the character and voting record of Rep. Brian Ashe. Instead o...
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Ashe is wrong

1/3/2018

I read Rep. Ashe’s comments in the recent 12/21/17 issue of The Reminder under the title “Ashe calls flyers distributed in towns ‘propaganda material’” referr...
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DCF secrecy must end

12/21/2017

DCF [Department of Children and Families] has escaped scrutiny from the legislature and governors for years. The only people who care about it are the parents of “client” children, who ...
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DCF secrecy must end

12/21/2017

DCF [Department of Children and Families] has escaped scrutiny from the legislature and governors for years. The only people who care about it are the parents of “client” children, who ...
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Moore was ridiculous

12/21/2017

In my opinion today’s election in Alabama not only deals with the quality. or lack thereof, of the character of not only Mr. Moore but also Mr. Trump. The fact that he supports so disgusting ...
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Pipeline poses risks

12/1/2017

I have seen a number of articles about the Keystone XL pipeline being routed through Nebraska but none tell the information that people need to know. Do people know that it will only carry tar sand...
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You can fight hunger, too

11/21/2017

Every morning, a truck pulls up to Atlas Farm in Deerfield. It gets loaded up with fresh vegetables, and heads to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.


Another Western Mass. farm, Our Fami...
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No new gun laws

11/17/2017

I am not a gun owner and I have never had an interest in owning a gun. However, I do respect the right of others to own guns. My issue has to do with the ongoing call for more gun control regulatio...
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Don’t blame guns

11/17/2017

In the old “Three Stooges” movies Moe exhorts his colleagues, “Don’t just stand there stupid, push buttons.”  That is the behavior of the Massachusetts Legislatur...
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There’s no place like Springfield

8/31/2017

With enjoyment of these past summer months almost behind us, we have had some great events happening right here in the city of homes. Back in May we started with the pancake breakfast along with pu...
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Slippery slope

8/31/2017

Just for the record: My ancestors were in the Union Army. I am no fan of the Confederacy, nor the attempts to revise history. It was about slavery. If I had it my way there would be a statue of Gen...
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Support House Bill 708

8/17/2017



I support the repeal of the probate law because it excluded people with disabilities in our court system under the United States Constitution and Massachusetts...
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Tosado applauds choice

8/3/2017


    I am happy and proud to congratulate my colleague and newly appointed Chairman of Ways and Means in the Massachusetts Legislature, Jeffrey Sanchez. The appointment is a sym...
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We need single payer health insurance

8/3/2017

If Obamacare implodes it will be due to sabotage by Trump. He will not enforce the mandate and or the tax on the rich that fund it. He also plans to get rid of the regulations on insurance companie...
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Drivers to blame

7/20/2017

The local news has recently broadcast a great deal of information regarding the East Longmeadow rotary. The number of accidents per year has been discussed, the placing of orange barrels to make th...
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Where are the moderate Republicans?

7/20/2017

The situation in Washington seems to amaze some people and I don't know why. I cannot imagine that anyone expected Mr. Trump to act any differently than he has always acted as a wealthy adolescent ...
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Oppose cuts

7/13/2017

On June 22, 2017, members of ADAPT, a national disability rights organization, staged a “die-in” in Senator Mitch McConnell’s Office to protest cuts to Medicaid. This action came ...
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Seatbelt law saves lives

7/6/2017



    While the Massachusetts Seat Belt law was passed on December 8th, 1993, the Anniversary date for this bill should really be seen as 6/15/1992.


As Chairman of t...
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We must fix a broken system

6/29/2017

 


During the Senate’s debate on my proposal to create a bulk purchase program for EpiPens, I read an open letter from Dr. Mark Kenton of Mercy Medical Center to the CEO of Mylan, ...
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It’s not time for drive-thru’s

6/29/2017


In a letter-to-the-editor, the “Community Liaison for Dunkin’ Donuts,” Mr. Paul E. Caron concludes that “We should not continue sacrificing economic development, jobs ...
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It’s time to have drive-thrus

6/8/2017

There’s a lot of talk about making East Longmeadow more “business friendly,” and the need to encourage additional Economic Development.


Currently, East Longmeadow prohibits...
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Support new DPW buildingage

6/8/2017

On June 13, voters will be asked to fund a new DPW facility.  The replacement of our Department of Public Works (DPW) complex has been the most studied event in the history of our town. We hav...
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Support Safe Communities Act

6/1/2017

I am writing to urge your support of the Safe Communities Act.  We have a refugee family from Africa in our church.  They have been faithful members since arriving in the U.S. in 2005. Wh...
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Next election is important

6/1/2017

Voters in Longmeadow face three important votes on 13 June that impact the future of Longmeadow. This election is important.


As I see it, we need to send strong candidates on to the school c...
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Building could be used

6/1/2017

I have been a resident of Longmeadow for 34 years. My children went through the school system and I now have two grandsons in the preschool program. I am concerned that unnecessary spending in othe...
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Reacts to report

6/1/2017

The following is a response to the Mass INC. Prison Report released by Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi.


Although I have deep respect for our friends at MassINC., here in Hampden County we...
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Weigh impact of legalizing online gambling

5/4/2017


Two comments on your “Rolling the Dice and Game Sense” article (March 30):


The explosion of gambling from three states casinos may be the tip of the iceberg. Proponents now...
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East Springfield needs a library

4/27/2017

Tuesday evening representatives from Springfield Library outlined cosmetic changes that are to make the East Springfield Branch Library more accessible for neighbors with limited mobility. Director...
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Noise violators are cultural fourth graders

4/27/2017


So you wish the mayor and the City Council would discuss the noise issue? They did several years ago. Then Councilor Dominic Sarno sponsored a noise ordinance, which passed.  The people ...
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How we turn the region into a high tech hub

4/20/2017



Those of us in Western Mass watched for two generations as the 128 corridor boomed and greater Boston turned into one of the world’s great tech centers.


Meanwhile, our larg...
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We need a Student Loan Bill of Rights

3/24/2017

A college degree has never cost so much. Since the Baby Boomers were students, the price of a diploma has shot up more than 1,000 percent. As a result, it’s becoming impossible for middle cla...
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Americans unwilling to pay for news

3/16/2017

 


Some good has come of the media discussion. I think the “small” papers used to tell us they were like the “big” guys.  Now you are telling us that all pap...
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Cable costs out of control

3/16/2017



 I think now is the time for our legislators to take a serious look into the practices of cable providers and “rein them in.”   If my situation is typical, an...
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Go along to get along

2/16/2017

Which employees are able to vote themselves a pay raise? Our state legislators, that’s which ones. I don’t know of any other employee who can and I don’t think it should be legal....
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We need Lesser

2/16/2017

This letter is to express public gratitude and commendation to Sen. Eric Lesser. In an August 2016 letter-to-the-editor in The Reminder it was claimed “we cannot afford Lesser.&rdquo...
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Pay raises not surprising

2/10/2017

What happened to the mechanism voted by our state Legislature several years ago that relieved them from the onerous task of voting for their own pay raises? You will recall their raises would go in...
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Incorrect Reporting

1/26/2017

Was it sweeps week for local newspapers, when the Jan 12, 2017 issue of The Reminder was prepared?


Looking at the front page of your paper, one would think so! Not only was there a color pho...
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This isn’t art

12/29/2016

It is difficult for me to understand how anyone can respect the so called “art” in the photo in your article in the Dining & Entertainment section of the Dec. 22, 2016 Reminder<...
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Thank you

12/2/2016

I would like to thank everyone who donated food items to the East Longmeadow food pantry. A special thank you to the following groups and businesses: Impressions Hair Salon, Maybury Material Handli...
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Williams should step down

11/18/2016

State Representative-elect Bud Williams should step down from the Springfield City Council when he is sworn in to the State Legislature in January. The voters of the 11th Hampden District have entr...
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Bud Williams should resign

11/18/2016

I want to congratulate Bud Williams being elected state representative from my district. He has served the city well as a city councilor and spent a lot of time on the job. It requires a lot of tim...
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Mosque doesn’t fit in town center

11/11/2016

I am a Christian who respects everyone's right to practice their own religion. However, with that being said, just because a building is a house of worship, should not entitle it to be built in suc...
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Voting for Harrington

11/4/2016

It was very interesting when I watched state Sen. Eric Lesser on a very well publicized statewide tour earlier this year speaking to the importance of engaging “millennials” and involvi...
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A vote for Lesser

10/27/2016

In response to a letter published on Oct. 13, I would like to assure that, yes, our family will be voting in our local election. We shall be voting for our incumbent, state Sen. Eric Lesser, who &n...
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Tax rates

10/21/2016

Although the Massachusetts Department of Revenue allows municipalities to set multiple commercial tax rates (ie. mil rates), only one residential mil rate is permitted. A local option to have more ...
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No on Question 2

10/20/2016

I am writing in support of a vote “No” on Question 2, which is a ballot question for Massachusetts’s voters at the Presidential election on Nov. 8.


Question 2 deals with th...
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Say ‘Yes’ to a new senior center

10/14/2016

I have been a resident of Longmeadow for more than two decades. I am a senior citizen.


In years past, I voted in favor of the new high school. I voted in favor of the new Blinn tennis courts...
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Save our parks

10/14/2016

The Annual Longmeadow Fall Town Meeting will be held on Oct. 25. Longmeadow Citizens to Save Our Parks are asking residents to vote “No” to Article 7 for the reasons outlined below.

...
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In support of Chip Harrington

10/14/2016

Many Massachusetts voters are planning to stay home this election, knowing that Democrat Hillary Clinton will beat Donald Trump by at least 20 points in this ultra-liberal state.  And they kno...
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Thank you

9/29/2016

I first want to say thank you, after months of campaigning and hard work your votes have solidified my role as your next Governor’s Councilor here in the 8th district. I couldn’t be mor...
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Buy American?

9/23/2016

I have news for both political parties, especially the Democrats. Your proposals to improve the economy will fall short of your expectations since you have not considered the most important aspect ...
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Where to put the new DPW?

9/15/2016

I would like to ask a hypothetical question. If there were six acres of land in the Ardsley Road-Woodsley Road area, would the DPW location selection committee and Select Board and the town manager...
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Consider a third party candidate

9/15/2016

I am a proud American who is more fortunate than I probably deserve. However I am afraid for my, yours, and our nation’s future. We are told that we have two choices for president, that we mu...
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Picknelly’s gain is region’s loss

9/15/2016

Within the past couple of weeks, Western Massachusetts suffered a significant defeat. A bill that would have provided a catalyst for a strengthened economy, elevated the standard of living for thou...
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Promote healthy options in schools

9/2/2016

With the new school year starting, parents’ to-do lists are now filled with shopping for school clothes, school supplies, and school food. That’s right – school food.


In pa...
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Sad situation for Alex’s Bagels

9/2/2016

How sad that Big Y is forcing Alex’s Bagel Shop to close. Alex’s and its predecessor Kimmel’s has been a mainstay in Longmeadow for over 50 years. It seems like this is another ca...
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New Vote for Starks

8/25/2016

Over the last couple of weeks, we have seen what one-party rule has done for the 2017 state budget.  When Gov. Baker followed the law in making some difficult choices to reduce the budget, our...
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Write in Starks on Sept. 8

8/19/2016

Sept. 8 will be state primary election day in the Commonwealth. In the 2nd Hampden district, Republican Sid Starks is running a write-in sticker campaign to get his name on the November General Ele...
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Trump’s plan won’t help middle class

8/19/2016

Trump’s latest economic talk shows how ignorant he is on the subject. Employers don’t hire people to do nothing just because they have excess cash. The cash can be safely placed in some...
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Take A Real Look

8/12/2016

Having just finished my walk this Sunday morning in our beautiful Forest Park, I wanted to put down my thoughts on the positive excitement in our downtown Springfield last night.


Downtown Sp...
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We Can't Afford Lesser

8/12/2016

While I might argue with a lot of your choices for Orchids and Onions (Opinion article, Aug. 4 to 10), I absolutely must protest your praise for Eric Lesser who almost cost taxpayers $700,000 to pe...
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Thank you

6/17/2016

I would like to thank the residents and business owners of East Longmeadow for their generous support during the town council election process. I have enjoyed meeting and talking with many of you a...
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Arts on Elm

6/17/2016

On June 4, Westfield on Weekends (WOW), together with Westfield Creative Arts (WCA), presented Westfield’s first “Arts on Elm” Art Walk. The six-hour event started at 10 a.m. and ...
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Tough choices with Tourette

6/2/2016

Recently a letter to the editor from me was published about an incident during a concert at East Longmeadow High School. My daughter with Tourette Syndrome experienced screaming tics and was asked ...
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Managing college debt

6/2/2016

Thank you to Minnechaug Regional High School and Keith Poulin for hosting the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority when we met with families of graduating seniors on April 13 to talk about...
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Town needs real change

6/2/2016

The more I listen to the townspeople, the more concerned I am with East Longmeadow’s political scene. This confirms my belief that the town is in need of real change. There are whisperings am...
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Running for re-election

6/2/2016

There has been much discussion over the past few months about Longmeadow approaching the Proposition 2½ tax ceiling.  The concern is that Longmeadow’s FY 2016 tax rate is quickly ...
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Town protected resources

5/20/2016

The Reminder gave coverage of the Longmeadow Town Meeting from May 10, but truly failed to convey the sentiments of the voters protecting the town park land. Article 32 passed overwhelming...
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Thank you

5/20/2016

I would like to thank the East Longmeadow community for all of the support for our recent staff performance of The Odd Couple.  


We are thrilled to report that the fundraiser raised ove...
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Trump fills third party void

5/12/2016

Speaker of the House Ryan may have a rude awakening in his meeting with Donald Trump later this week. Mr. Trump should try to explain to Speaker Ryan one more time that the voters don’t want ...
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Time for new beginnings

5/12/2016

If you have been following the 2016 presidential campaign, you can see how frustrated voters are with the political system as is. They are looking for change with Donald Trump on the right and Bern...
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Too soon to talk new middle school

5/12/2016

The Hampden Wilbraham Regional School Committee members should be thanked for volunteering their time and talent to improve educational opportunities for our children. It is an important, and all t...
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Town Council candidate

5/12/2016

My name is Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman and I am announcing my candidacy for East Longmeadow Town Council.


My family and I have lived here for 14 years.  I’ve had the pleasure of m...
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Meet the candidates

5/12/2016

On May 19 in the Cafeteria of the East Longmeadow High School, an opportunity to meet the candidates for Town Council will take place from 5:30 to 8 p.m.


Due to the large number of candidate...
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Supporting small business

5/5/2016

I recently had the privilege of helping cut the opening ribbon at Cheeky City Boutique, a new beauty retailer in downtown Springfield started by local entrepreneur Leanne Sedlak.


Small busin...
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Act on guns now, before it’s too late

5/5/2016

On Dec. 14, 2012, Newtown, CT, did not have a big gun violence problem. Until it did.


The AR-15, military-style, assault weapon used to gun down the 20 kids at Sandy Hook Elementary School w...
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Don’t reduce the speed limit

4/28/2016

At the upcoming Town Meeting on May 10, there will be a vote on Article 27, which seeks to lower the speed limit on residential side streets to 20 miles per hour. I commend the effort of the young ...
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Withdrawing from selectmen’s race

4/28/2016

In light of the demands of my law practice and other professional commitments, I have found it necessary to reconsider my candidacy as democratic nominee for the Board of Selectmen for the town of ...
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Gun proposals would hurt town

4/28/2016

It is with sadness that we saw the recent legislation proposed by Selectman Alex Grant on firearms which attempts to bring nasty national politics into the otherwise peaceable and largely crime-fre...
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Call for gun control debate

4/28/2016

As the lead petitioner for the gun control bylaws which will be voted upon at the Longmeadow Town Meeting on May 10, I would like to challenge you to a public debate on the proposed bylaws. I would...
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We are getting what we deserve

3/25/2016

The March 16 East Longmeadow Board of Selectmen meeting, while both appalling and embarrassing, simply reaffirms the old quote, “In a democracy, people get the government they deserve.”...
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Proposed charter isn’t right for town

3/25/2016

East Longmeadow needs to change its government. Unfortunately, the Charter Commission’s proposal isn’t the best for the town.


I have been privileged to serve as East Longmeadow&r...
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Government can be good again

3/25/2016

Sometimes I think it is just a bad dream, but then the sun comes up and memories of recent days come back to haunt us. The town has been front-page news for a number of days. How can this be? ...
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Help people not snakes

3/25/2016

The world is gone crazy, we have hundreds of human beings, homeless and hungry in the western part of Massachusetts and instead of concentrating on helping to end the dilemma  of homelessness ...
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Hidden cost of new government

3/17/2016

As we prepare to vote on April 12; voting “no” keeps our current form of government, whereas “yes” ushers in a new form.


Voting “yes” drastically reduces...
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Gorman’s statements false

3/17/2016

On Feb. 29, during the open meeting of the Board of Selectmen, some very inaccurate statements were made regarding the Appropriations Committee.


During the meeting, Mr. Gorman while speakin...
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Attacks on Mellis are troubling

3/17/2016

It is with great dismay that I read about the machinations of two members of the East Longmeadow’s Board of Selectmen to discredit Chief Douglas Mellis and the their attempts to manipulate th...
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Mellis is a professsional

2/26/2016

I would like to comment on two letters from the Feb. 18, 2016 Reminder. I agree with the article “Don’t Blame the Contract.” In the past, if we have approved at Town Meet...
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Drivers risk lives of children

2/26/2016

I am attempting to use your paper to voice my concerns about pedestrian and crossing guard safety. I’ve been a crossing guard on the corner of Main and Central Street for the city of Springfi...
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Make homecare affordable

2/18/2016

The solution to making homecare more affordable, especially for the more physically or emotionally needy, is a major problem in all states and for the country. This is also a rapidly growing proble...
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Don’t blame the contract

2/18/2016

In the Feb. 11 issue of The Reminder Appropriations Committee Chair states, “One of the reasons for the Police Department’s high overtime budget in recent years is due to the contracts ...
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Running for reelection

2/18/2016

With a commitment to continue to serve Longmeadow residents and bring balance to the Select Board, I am announcing that I am seeking reelection to the Longmeadow Select Board for a three year term....
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System has been rigged

2/11/2016

The cost of a college education and the interest on the loan is only part of the problem. Expense was always a problem for most of us.  But now the job for which people have trained has been o...
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Is Warren telling the truth?

2/11/2016

I am disappointed (but not surprised) that you as an editor of a weekly newspaper would write an Op Ed piece without checking the facts. You regularly rail against your conservative Facework friend...
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In support of Chief Mellis

2/11/2016

I am writing in support of our current police chief, Doug Mellis. I was dismayed to learn that his contract with the town was not renewed. I wish Selectman Gorman and Selectman Thorpe could have wo...
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No dogs allowed!

2/11/2016

People are letting their dogs play on our playground. The dogs are pooping on the ground. Children step in it and spread it all over the school. Six of the students in our class stepped in the poop...
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Solar cap slowing progress

2/5/2016

From the Berkshires to Cape Cod, up and down the Pioneer Valley, and everywhere in between, projects that produce clean solar power for communities, save money for taxpayers and create thousands of...
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Info was incorrect, incomplete

2/5/2016

As someone who has served on the Select Board for the last three years, I can say there was some information presented at the recent DPW forum that was not entirely correct or was incomplete. ...
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Running for School Committee

1/28/2016

A high quality education is undeniably the greatest gift we can give children. A high quality education empowers our children. It is the reason every child in America is guaranteed an education and...
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Don’t forget State Committee vote

1/28/2016

There's an important election March 1, but not the one you think, Every four years, the same day as the presidential primary, voters are also asked to select their choice for their party’s St...
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Silly charter questions

1/15/2016

Some of the questions from the 82 residents who attended the East Longmeadow Charter Commission’s Jan. 7 open meeting did not seem to have been well thought out.


Several attendees seem...
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Liberal Santa Claus

12/22/2015

This week’s Reminder printed a letter from Senator Eric Lesser headlined “Bringing Down Student Debt.”


As “Scroogy” as I may sound to be saying this on Christma...
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Bringing down student debt

12/18/2015

This winter break, college students are bringing home more than just loads of laundry: they’re also bringing mounting loads of debt.


Student debt is a simmering crisis for young adults...
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Thank you

12/10/2015

Thanksgiving seems to arrive and pass too quickly in the midst of other holiday hustle and bustle. Yet thankfulness is so imperative when generosity is abundant.


I would like to pause and g...
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We should take care of our own

12/4/2015

Regarding turning our backs on refugees is turning our backs on our values:


I can understand Gov. Baker wanting more information before accepting refugees from the Middle East, such as how c...
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Dobbs doesn’t offer facts

12/3/2015

Editor Mike Dobbs writes that the events in Paris are “more complicated than the memes and tweets would have us believe.” He asks, “Shouldn't our actions and opinions be based on ...
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No more Common Core

11/12/2015

Massachusetts’ educational success is attributed to decades of expert local standard development. Since 2005, students have led in national testing in all subjects and grades, and rank high i...
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State should battle climate change

11/12/2015

As a registered representative working for brokerage houses and banks for the past 33 years, I understand the factors that make for a good investment. Senate 1747, An Act Combating Climate Change, ...
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No to government change

10/8/2015

The day after East Longmeadow’s annual town election on April 14, nine people woke up that morning and they were instantly town charter review commissioners. Since there was no competition an...
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Ward 7 debate scheduled

10/8/2015

This letter is written to inform everyone of the Ward 7 City Council debate scheduled for Oct. 13 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Spring Meadow Apartments. The final details of the debate are being worked o...
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Moderator should have stepped in

10/1/2015

A member of the audience made a statement about Muslims and Obama. It was not a question about the many candidates for president. The moderator should have stepped in and informed him that he was o...
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Allen hasn’t set dates for debates

10/1/2015

On Sept. 17, I suggested a series of three debates with Councilor Allen, to occur between Sept. 29 and Oct. 20, which he said on MassLive he would welcome.         Sin...
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Big E should stop elephant show

9/11/2015

Every year I look forward to the Big E.


The food, parades, 4-H exhibits, the amusement rides, music, tractors/autos, the state buildings, crafts and gifts galore!


What I don’t l...
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Beloved pet

8/7/2015

Editor’s note: The following letter is from an East Longmeadow man whose beloved dog was recently killed by a coyote. He wrote the letter to alert other pet owners to the potential danger...
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Issues with ward representation

7/30/2015

In principle, ward representation looks good. Since it passed its proponents have been grasping at straws pointing out to us how it is better. The ethnic and gender makeup of the City Council and S...
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A vote for ward representation

7/30/2015

Ward representation had been a controversial topic on the Springfield City Council for a long time before it took effect in the 2009 election.


We are now observing the 2015 municipal electi...
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Mayor, sheriff ignoring people

7/30/2015

The newly proposed location for the Western Massachusetts Rehabilitation Center on Wason Avenue has resulted in mass opposition, with hundreds of residents signing a petition to stop the developmen...
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Foster, Lachiusa have needed skills

6/5/2015

On June 9 Longmeadow will be deciding on which two people will be on the Select Board for the next three years.


This is a very important election. This is a crucial year with our town manag...
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EITC is a better choice

6/5/2015

Paul Martin wrote a letter last week pointing out that the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is pure income redistribution, and suggested it would be unnecessary if workers were paid the so-called &l...
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Candidate should run on own record

6/5/2015

I was bemused to see Paul Santaniello’s letter in The Reminder this week describing his accomplishments on the Select Board. I would like to set the record straight about some of his claims:<...
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Fair wages would eliminate EITC

5/22/2015

It is in the news that the Governor wants to eliminate the Movie Production Tax Credit and use the money saved to increase the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).  The EITC is an odd beast. I bel...
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Equality for women and girls

5/22/2015

Throughout my life I’ve been surrounded by inspiring women – whether it’s my mother, a social worker and scholar, my wife, a solo practicing attorney, or my two sisters who are bo...
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Article illustrates major problem

5/22/2015

Your recent article on the Longmeadow Select Board’s evaluation of Stephen Crane gave enough information for your readers to see why we have so much conflict in town Select Board meetings. I ...
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Candidates will take stand against Common Core

5/8/2015

I’m an engineer, my wife is a doctor, and we are arguing over our second grade daughter’s math homework – a real-life situation of parents expressing their frustration with Common...
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Job training isn’t complete solution

4/24/2015

While it is commendable that Sen. Lesser supports job training, he seems to think that the only reason why people are unemployed is because they are uneducated. After people learn the skills for &l...
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Come to Town Meeting

4/24/2015

As voter registrars for the town of East Longmeadow, we want to thank each of the over 500 voters who took 10 minutes out of their busy day to come to Birchland Park and make your voice heard at ou...
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Boston 2024 won’t benefit area

3/19/2015

The Olympics in Boston in 2024 sounds like a grand plan. It certainly would put Boston and the Commonwealth on the international map; but, leave Western Massachusetts off the same map.


And w...
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Climate change is a socialist strategy

2/26/2015

Here are a few points you missed in your editorial on so called “global warming:”


We have gone over 18 years without any increase in warming.


We can only accurately predic...
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DPW is a priority

1/29/2015

Longmeadow’s Department of Public Works (DPW) facility has been in deplorable condition for years.  It was that way when I toured the DPW site ten years ago as a Capital Planning Board member; ve...
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How do we get there?

1/2/2015

Sometimes it’s hard to believe that it has been over four years since my family and I relocated from Florida to Western Massachusetts. When I stop to reflect upon what these years have meant to me, I ...
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Board must let Crane manage

1/2/2015

If it is true that one man cannot serve two masters, then pity Longmeadow Town Manager Stephen Crane who must serve five. Even worse for Mr. Crane is the fact that these five officials seem to conside...
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Hats off to Spartan musicians

12/18/2014

On the evening of Dec. 4, we attended the East Longmeadow High School Music Department's Winter Concert.

 It was the most wonderful up-beat evening to watch and listen to such talented stu
...
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Issue with Gorman

12/18/2014

On Nov. 18 I had the privilege of meeting with the Board of Selectmen during a Public Forum Hearing. I summarized the events of the past several months regarding the nuisance caused by three horses st...
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Chief Mellis is a great friend

12/18/2014

Let me tell you about a friend. East Longmeadow and former Hampden Chief of Police Doug Mellis is the essence of a friend.  He was recently named the head of the Massachusetts Chief’s Association...
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Grow up Longmeadow

12/11/2014

On Nov. 17, my wife and I tuned in to the Longmeadow Select Board meeting. We were truly astonished by the way in which this meeting was conducted. It was every evident to us that there is an atmosphe...
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A war we cannot win

11/21/2014

After years of pushing back the date for an Afghan withdrawal, the United States, last month quietly signed a security agreement authorizing U.S. troops to stay for 10 more years. This action means we...
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Interstate, casino connected

11/21/2014

We all agree that the highway needs to be repaired. On every overpass one can see rusted steel. In the case of highways through cities, many of the people have no wish to drive through the city, but t...
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Longmeadow needs 21st century DPW

11/14/2014

In 1931, when our Department of Public Works maintenance complex was constructed, Longmeadow had 1294 dwellings, a population of 4437, and 23 miles of roadways. According to the 2010 census, our town ...
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Boycott the casino

11/14/2014

Massachusetts has been a leader in the past. The Bay State was a close second after Vermont to outlaw slavery in 1779, the first state with marriage equality as of 2004 but alas, not the first state t...
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Common Core is unfair

11/14/2014

A recent state of the district address to the Chicopee School Committee was reported having one school official state “there is more non-fiction reading” under the Common Core and “students are learni...
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Help us better protect you

11/7/2014

There is a Special Town Meeting scheduled for Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. One of the warrant articles up for a vote is in regard to the purchase of a Quint aerial apparatus for the fire department.

A Qu
...
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Need more manufacturing

10/30/2014

The building of railroad cars in Springfield is definitely good news, just before election day of course. It is good if it is the beginning of a trend. It will generate about 200 jobs, that is about t...
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Experience needed in state Senate

10/17/2014

As we seriously contemplate whom to “hire” as our next State Senator, we should be mindful that 1) this is not an entry-level job and 2) the candidate with the most relevant professional qualification...
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A bountiful thank you

10/17/2014

The Agawam Rotary Club and the Agawam YMCA will like to express their deepest thanks and appreciation to the following businesses and individuals for their generous donations to help us have a great H...
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Get involved and serve your town

9/12/2014

With all of the unrest and demonstrations in other countries, lets make sure that our country does not end up with their problems, where they complain and have very disruptive demonstrations, because ...
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Join us

9/4/2014

There is a French saying: “Quand on veut, on peut,” which translates to “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” 
   
Literally it means, “When one wants, one can.” Do the pe
...
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East Longmeadow Government Review Petition

8/6/2014

The first step to move the local government review forward is to submit approximately 1,681 registered East Longmeadow voter signatures to Town Hall for action.

Let’s move forward and get it do
...
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Keep Western Mass Casino-Free

8/6/2014

On behalf of Repeal the Casino Deal and No Casino Springfield, we are writing to sincerely thank the residents of Springfield, Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Hampden and Wilbraham for their overwhelming...
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It is now a public facility

7/31/2014

In the mid-1990s in East Longmeadow, the financial “must haves” presented to the usual pathetic town meeting few, a proposal to purchase Pine Knoll “before Springfield could get it.”

Chris Maza
...
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Committee looks for history

7/24/2014

The East Longmeadow Fourth of July Parade Committee is looking for information and photographs of early celebrations.

The goal is to compile as complete of a history of the parade since 1894.
...
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Actions cover mistakes

7/16/2014

Does Westfield’s efforts to take Alice Wielgus’ farm by eminent domain for more baseball fields, over four acres of asphalt for parking and driveway loops in a flood plain and a disc golf course in th...
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Clarification concerning Wildlife Sanctuary article

7/9/2014

Clarification concerning the article about “Stebbins Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary” dated June 26, 2014, pages 8 and 14.

“The lease does not set the stage for the Refuge to acquire any land from
...
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Much appreciated

7/9/2014

On behalf of the Friends of the Agawam Senior Center and the Agawam Rotary, we wish to thank you for the success of our recent 19th Anniversary Golf Tournament on June 4 at the Agawam Municipal Golf C...
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Be sure to cast your vote

6/25/2014

To the citizens of Longmeadow, of a certain age, who remember the fiscal conservatism of Iris Holland. Make sure you vote.

Does it seem like Mark Gold is sometimes arguing with toddlers? I’m v
...
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Come join the Flag Day celebration

6/12/2014

Flag Day is a day set aside especially to honor our flag and the nation it represents. For many years, I have organized a pro-America, non-political, non-partisan, grassroots, patriotic standout on Fl...
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Fourth of July Parade Committee needs help

6/12/2014

The committee needs your assistance. Specifically, it needs people to step up and volunteer, as parade marshals and banner carriers. This request is in addition to the previous report of new people he...
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Candidate for re-election

5/29/2014

I am a candidate for re-election to the Longmeadow School Committee. Election day is Tuesday, 3 June.

I am running on my record of support for quality education in all of Longmeadow’s public sc
...
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Are you prepared?

5/22/2014

I know you have heard this title before, but it deserves to continue to be asked. One upcoming date of importance is June 1. What’s so great about that date you ask?

It stands for many things,
...
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Global warming isn't real

5/22/2014

Here are a few points you missed in your editorial on so-called “global warming:”

We have gone over 17 years without any increase in warming.

We can only accurately predict the weather a
...
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Donation cap should include unions

5/1/2014

Recently, my Democrat opponents in the race for the State Senate seat in the First Hampden/Hampshire district have called for contribution limits from people and interests outside of Massachusetts in...
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Candidate Allie thanks supporters

4/11/2014

I would like to thank all the volunteers for their help and hard work, on both John Veils’ and my campaigns, and everyone who voted in the special election.
Since my first days working on campaigns
...
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Fourth of July Parade Committee needs assistance

4/3/2014

The East Longmeadow Fourth of July Parade Committee is regrouping to plan the parade as the majority of the present members are retiring due to length of service and personal issues.
We will be mee
...
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City Charter explains it

3/28/2014

Regarding your story on March 21 on the Chicopee City Messenger position; it’s odd that the applicant, a former alderman/councilor, was unfamiliar with Chapter C, Article III, paragraph 26 of our city...
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Baker is a sound choice

3/27/2014

The Opinion column in last week’s Reminder questions whether Charlie Baker is highly regarded as a candidate for governor. In reality, Charlie Baker’s qualities and experience and his proven record an...
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Minimum wage increase would hurt

3/13/2014


Our legislators are trapped. They know that increasing the minimum wage always throws some people out of work, that it hurts minorities and teenagers the most, and will increase illegal alien emplo
...
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Donations help your neighbors

2/28/2014

Jen is one of my favorite patrons at Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry. As a full-time mother of two, it pained her to see her husband’s work hours get cut to part-time. Even with picking up an addit...
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Even more about the school

1/23/2014

This continues my previous letter, The Reminder, 1/17/14.
The Westfield Planning Board approved the new elementary school without deliberations to address the numerous safety and legal concer
...
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Learn more about school project

1/16/2014

In January 2012, the Westfield Education Association (WEA) was asked by the neighborhood group challenging the 96,000 square-foot, 600-student elementary school design proposed at Ashley and Cross Str...
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Appeal for members

1/15/2014

Last November, a [letter] was published in The Reminder as to serious concerns regarding the future of the parade. Nine out of the 10 present members will be resigning after July 4 due issues ...
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Heating oil company comes through in pinch

1/9/2014

Sometimes, Christmas does come early and that can lead into a happy new year.
On Thursday Dec. 19, 2013, our half century old gas furnace failed. After many telephone calls, the earliest replacement
...
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Look in the Bible

1/9/2014

I am writing this letter in regards to your comments in the Reminder dated Dec. 27, 2013. You are entitled to your opinions as well as we are, however I don’t agree with you on Phil Robertson’s commen...
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Don’t drink and drive

1/3/2014

David (Anzalotti) Laduzenski, my cousin, at age 29, was killed over two years ago by a driver convicted of possession of cocaine, and drunk driving.
Our family and David have strong local roots in
...
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Chicopee doesn’t need a tax increase

12/19/2013

Chicopee’s lame duck mayor recently stated the city has “$20 million in different reserve accounts” and the city council president said he would “like to keep the taxes as low as possible,” but both ...
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Don’t raise the minimum wage

12/19/2013


The time was when we had a minimum starting wage. Somehow this has become, overtime, a standard for the lower paying jobs. I suppose it’s because of a slow economy and the need of some to be employe
...
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Curling for fun on a frozen pond

12/19/2013

A safely frozen pond opens the door for a variety of winter sports including ice-skating, pond hockey, ice fishing and curling – yes curling!
For those who may not be familiar with the sport of curl
...
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A citywide thank you

12/6/2013

On behalf of the staff at the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round I would like to thank Mayor Alex Morse, the Holyoke Parks and Recreation Department, Pioneer Valley Railroad, the Holyoke Police Department and the...
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Dobbs wrong about Kennedy

12/4/2013

Editor Mike Dobbs editorialized about President Kennedy “involving the country into the Vietnam conflict ... stared down Kruschchev and had the missiles removed from Cuba ... put the space program on...
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A Thanksgiving Message

11/26/2013

At this time of year, we think with gratitude of those who have been of truly great assistance to us. Therefore we sincerely thank the voters of East Longmeadow at the Town Hall meeting who approved t...
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Little known about U.S. Olympians

11/26/2013

With less than three months before the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, the American public is practically oblivious as to who will represent the U.S. in the games due to the lack of television cove...
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Church hierarchy must open their eyes, minds

11/21/2013

As a former parishioner of St. Stanislaus Basilica, I was very disheartened to learn of the allegation of a student in Baltimore high school accusing Rev. Michael Kolodzieg of sexual abuse in the 1970...
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Are we in Kansas yet?

11/20/2013

Kudos to Mr. Philip B. Fregeau of Longmeadow, in the Oct. 17 to 23 issue of the weekly Reminder, for his explicit depiction of this sleepy town’s latest tax spending fiasco in a proposal of building ...
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Lend a helping hand

11/14/2013

These are the three passions that keep me busy, be it summer or winter, spring or fall. What are your passions? What do you long for, search for and feel about humanity? We all have a role to play; fi...
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Future of Fourth of July Parade In Doubt

11/13/2013

Due to recent family events, future personal commitments, 2014 will be [my] last year serving as parade chairman. I’ve been a member of the Parade Committee for 30 years, served as chairman for 20 yea...
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Is it time for Charter reform?

11/6/2013

East Longmeadow is a vibrant, rapidly-growing New England town that is busting at the seams.
The town is, in reality, a $55 million corporation with hundreds of employees. Presently, we have part-ti
...
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Buck stops at the mayor

10/24/2013

City Councilors and journalists naturally ask questions in the capacity of their job, according to Mike Dobbs in his Oct. 16 opinion piece, “Are the right questions being asked in the latest mayoral c...
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I thought leaders were smarter

10/23/2013

The Longmeadow planning board, opting against the support of an accessory apartment bylaw, made me think that residents have been poorly represented. The idea of accessory apartments is to keep famili...
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Longmeadow can’t afford more school building projects

10/16/2013

The new Longmeadow High School has been dedicated and the contract with Gilbane is nearing completion. Some of the most vocal advocates for the new high school have already left Longmeadow’s rising ta...
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Freaking idiot troll

10/10/2013

I give up. You’re an ass. An ignorant one at that.
A few idiots comment on Miss America and you construct an entire straw universe of racial animosity and “hate.”
By the way, your whole column had n
...
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Integration better than segregation

10/3/2013

The problem with the Middle East culture is that there are many divisions whether it be tribal or along ethnic and religious lines – something we as Americans must be aware of here at home.
The
...
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I disagree with Grant

10/2/2013

I read my good friend Alex Grant’s recent column in the Longmeadow News with great interest, but I must strongly disagree with both his observations and conclusions.
He indicated that the Longmeadow
...
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Cohen slanders Calabrese

9/26/2013

Stunningly, Mayor Richard Cohen stooped to a new low around the Labor Day weekend (“Mayor responds to condominium trash reimbursement resolution, Sept. 16).
While Councilors Cecelia Calabrese and Den
...
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Kurds face hardships

9/26/2013

Ever since the breakup of the Ottoman Empire, the Kurdish people have been seeking their own autonomous state.
During the Iraq/Iran war from 1980-1988, the U.S. gave Saddam Hussein (then an ally) the
...
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Kudos to the treasurer

9/26/2013

As a Chicopee resident, it was very interesting to read a record low interest rate will allow the city to borrow more than $8.5 million in as short-term bond to pay for part of the new senior center, ...
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A higher minimum wage would hurt people

9/12/2013

A recent Reminder editorial supporting an increase in the Massachusetts minimum wage needs more thought as to what the real impact would be, especially to small businesses for whom this could be the s...
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Minimum wage hurts the poor

9/11/2013

This letter is in response to an op-ed in favor of raising the minimum wage.
A minimum wage stifles the economy, hurting all classes of society. The rich can usually survive. It is the poor and the
...
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Dobbs, Reich lack understanding

9/11/2013

This week’s editorial, “Raising the minimum wage only makes sense,” shows that both you and Mr. Reich have an appalling lack of understanding the fundamentals of capitalism and how it has made this co...
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Are new meters necessary?

8/29/2013

Chicopee’s mayor’s continued crusade to spend $800,000 for single stream containers and $8 million for “modern” water meters should continue to fall on deaf city council ears.
Research shows that
...
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Elm Street gets worse

8/28/2013

Drivers on Elm Street are so lucky now to have bright yellow and white lines on the roadway. While the dump trucks, trailer trucks and landscape trailers go bumpity bump, bang bang over the deteriora...
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Massachusetts can do better

8/21/2013

“Ours is a government of the people, for the people, and by the people,” in the words of Abraham Lincoln in 1863.
Is this true today? Has the role of people diminished? Are all age groups involved in
...
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Bills would affect legal gun owners

8/14/2013

I think your article illustrates why we are not going to have a productive discussion about violence. The discussion usually turns to “gun violence” which is a subset of “violence.” It is never about...
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I don’t agree with Dobbs

8/8/2013

I say your letter in The Reminder about Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman. I write letters to our Hilltown paper, The Country Journal, and my friend gave me this to read.
I do not agree with you on
...
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Governing wannabe

8/7/2013

In your front-page story about the Longmeadow Select Board/School Committee rapprochement, you referred to the participants as, “governing bodies.” That implies that the Board and the Committee are co...
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Enjoyed Keystone Arch Bridge Trail article

7/31/2013

I would like a thank you to be given to Mr. Chris Maza for the interesting article on the Keystone Arch Bridge Trail in Chester.
I seem to recall seeing some of those sights several (many) years ago,
...
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Holiday parade disappoints reader

7/17/2013

I attended the [East Longmeadow] July 4 parade with my husband. In past years there have been many bands and much more music. This year’s parade was an endless stream of car’s or floats advertising th...
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Job well done

7/3/2013

My congratulations go out to our State Auditor Ms. Susan Bump for the great job she performed auditing the Department of Transitional Assistance. What frustrates me is why the previous auditor missed ...
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Budget deficit to be determined

7/3/2013

On April 8, 2013, I announced my candidacy for mayor of Westfield. At that time I stressed to the city's 23,700 registered voters the absolute importance of voting in the mayoral election on Nov. 5, 2...
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Do I want a casino? No!

6/26/2013

Property tax relief like that suggested by Springfield City Councilor Timothy Rooke (May 17) is usually part of the promises package made by pro-casino groups. Fulfilling these million dollar promises...
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More training needed

6/19/2013

Every day we hear stories of children who were sexually abused while under the care of staff at schools, churches, and other youth-serving organizations. As a parent I am both disturbed that so many ...
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Fish sleep in VFW make wake up call

6/19/2013

The Hampden Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Kid's Fishing Derby was a success despite the fish supplier being two and a half hours late. Once the derby started, all went well and the kids enjoyed the ...
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Boston bombings give go ahead

6/7/2013

It appears that the elder brother, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, may have received terrorism training from an isolated area of Chechnya that hordes radical Islamists, which through history have staged resistanc...
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More money, no results

6/5/2013

The Springfield Police are doing a fine job, that is why sales of security systems, locks and fences are brisk. Is the drug trade under control? The raids have been happening for several decades now. ...
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Mayoral government not better

6/5/2013

I am writing this letter in response to Longmeadow Select Board member Mark Barowsky's call for a mayoral form of government: Winston Churchill once said, "democracy is the worst form of government ex...
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Horses deserve better treatment

5/30/2013

Imagine a Clydesdale galloping in an open field. But what some people don't know is that this horse gets abused every day. Next week it will be shipped off to Mexico to be slaughtered. The meat will ...
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Generalization is a bad habit

5/23/2013

We tend to group and categorize people of certain cultures, race, creed and the nation of which they may reside and form in our minds the opinion that they must all act and think alike.
This rush to
...
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Inaccurate comparision

5/22/2013

What you failed to mention in your latest column comparing the attack at Benghazi to those that happened under the previous administration is that the diplomats in Benghazi asked for help when they kn...
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Inaccurate comparision

5/22/2013

What you failed to mention in your latest column comparing the attack at Benghazi to those that happened under the previous administration is that the diplomats in Benghazi asked for help when they kn...
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'60 Minutes' report just one view

5/22/2013

The "60 Minutes" report about Springfield and the drug raids carried out by "counter-insurgency cops" is just one way to bring the drug trade under control.
I don't see how bringing criminals to jus
...
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Committee needs members

5/22/2013

The annual Fourth of July Parade will soon be marching down the streets of East Longmeadow as we celebrate the independence of our country and the parade committee is finalizing plans and organizing a...
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Irresponsible

5/16/2013

Four Americans are dead, including two Navy seals and U.S. Ambassador to Libya, John Stevens. All were murdered in the September 11-12, 2012, attack on our embassy in Benghazi.
Senior military offic
...
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Home owners have rights

5/15/2013

The town of Longmeadow recently announced plans for the inspection of taxable property including the interior of all residences. The purpose of the inspection will be to look for improvements which mi...
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Democrats have done worse

5/9/2013

It's amazing! No one wants to bury Tamerlan (the Boston-bomber-Muslim-terrorist) on American soil because of his evil deeds. Without question, Democrats have done vastly more damage to America over th...
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Name calling

5/8/2013

I was dismayed with your use of the word "idiot" to describe a conservative representative from Arkansas with whom you disagree politically. To me, the use of an ad hominem indicate an inability to ar...
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Geese are a real problem

5/8/2013

The Canadian Geese problem that has been plaguing Heritage Park in East Longmeadow is a serious problem for the park, the people who use the park and the town employees. These nasty birds leave behi...
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E.L. Tennis thanks you for your support

5/1/2013

The East Longmeadow Boys & Girls Tennis Team and Booster Club would like to thank our community for the generous support given to us on Saturday, April 27 at our fundraising car wash/bake sale.
We w
...
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MRC should be commended for service

5/1/2013


It has not been widely publicized that many of the valiant volunteers with vests or other identifying wearing apparel who raced to the rescue after bombs exploded at [the April 15] Boston Marathon
...
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Governor doesn't know anything but fees and taxes

4/11/2013

I read recently with a sickened feeling in my body how our governor is sour on the proposed $500 million gas tax hike. Well guess what, we hard working and retired taxpayers are simply tired of his co...
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Clarification regarding my opposition

4/10/2013

Thank you for your story in the March 28th edition of The Reminder that reported on the Select Board's decision to remove a proposed $96,752 spending article from the Longmeadow Town Meeting w...
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Is fluoride a necessity?

4/3/2013

Do we need fluoride added to our water? We can save $100,000 by removing it. Can we use the $100,000 elsewhere in the town budget? Let us count the ways.
Eleanor Stolar
Longmeadow
...
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Mocks Markey's, Malloy's Manipulation

3/22/2013

[Congressman Edward] Mark[e]y has promised to "get tough" on guns, meaning sportsmen. He then cites the Sandy Hook shooting showing a need for more background checks. Of course, we already have ba...
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Agawam Lions thank supporters

3/22/2013

The Agawam Lions wish to thank all the patrons who attended our annual comedy show held March 2 and also the following local businesses, organizations, and people who donated funds or items to our ra...
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Identity theft

3/22/2013

I was taken aback yesterday when I went to the local cable TV office in Chicopee to pay my bill and, while tendering the bill and my check to pay the bill, the clerk asked me for a picture ID.
I que
...
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Approves funding plan

2/27/2013

Mr. Dobbs misses the point by supporting repeal of the requirement that the Post Office forward fund its pensions. Instead he should be proposing a requirement that all federal, state, and local gov...
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Enforce residency

2/21/2013

Is not agreeing with Chicopee's city charter reason enough for officials to ignore it?
One charter area being ignored that is costing Chicopee taxpayers is the continued appointment of non-residen
...
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Kudos to Lorraine

2/21/2013

I've read with interest the compelling news stories surrounding the establishment of the Chicopee Soup Kitchen by Lorraine Houle, an obviously very caring and compassionate woman. Unfortunately, it i...
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Gun debate deserves better

2/13/2013

I made a New Year's resolution that I was no longer going to read any letters to the editor sent by a writer who bears the same name as the patriot who declared, "Give me liberty or give me death." T...
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Climate change to impact next generation

2/7/2013

When you see a newborn and witness the loving care that binds mother and child together, it makes you wonder if the parents are fully aware of the adverse health issues that poor air quality and clima...
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Charter should go to voters

2/7/2013

Chicopee Mayor Bissonnette is on another charter revision charge, but not through an elected charter commission. He again seeks Home Rule changes based on his interpretation of the charter and needed...
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A plan for gun control

2/6/2013

I have not heard anyone in politics, or the media, propose discussion of anything resembling a comprehensive plan to solve our national gun problem. I do not believe that a rehash of past feeble atte...
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Don't bury head in sand

2/1/2013

I was surprised by the recent thoughts of Councilor George Bitzas, who fears that the formation of a casino impact committee will somehow imply acceptance to the West Springfield location. This simply...
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Media exploits

2/1/2013

Our nation was deeply saddened by the horrific news of the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.
As a result some say we need to do something about gun laws. No one wants guns t
...
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East Longmeadow Scholarship Foundation says "thank you"

1/30/2013

Thanksgiving Day 2012, we were fortunate to have participated in the East Longmeadow Silent Auction on behalf of East Longmeadow Scholarship Foundation. I say fortunate because we became acutely aware...
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Letter incorrect on gun licenses

1/30/2013

In the Jan. 17, 2013 issue of The Reminder, Sharon Levy of Longmeadow made the grossly incorrect statement that gun licenses, once issued, never have to be renewed as do car registrations. She also s...
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Against the casino

1/24/2013

The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino that has been proposed at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield is not going to be in the best interests of the town of Agawam.
The town of Agawam borders
...
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Look at the perpetrator, not the gun

1/23/2013

Why do the left-wing, gun-hating, do-gooders always look at the gun instead of the perpetrator doing the horrific deed? Senator Diane Feinstein and others in government have a fixation about guns and ...
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Misdirection

1/23/2013

In last week's Reminder, a letter writer urged that guns be treated just like cars and be subject to registration and periodic re-registration. This idea ignores the clear Constitutional purpos...
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Agrees with reader

1/23/2013

I thought Sharon Levy's letter of Jan. 17, 2013 was perfect. In addition, renewed licensing of guns would help keep track of who owns these weapons.
Just like when an automobile is involved in crim
...
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Gun control lobby lies

1/23/2013

I think had you clubbed the person in Virginia to steal his gun another person would have shot you. I can just see the headlines, "Massachusetts resident who supports gun control shot trying to steal ...
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Full time COA director needed

1/16/2013


As a former member of the Longmeadow Council on Aging Board of Directors, I am very familiar with the population that is served at the Adult Center, all the services and programs provided including l
...
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Demeans subject

1/9/2013

As a resident of East Longmeadow, I am disappointed with your tabloid-like, gossipy coverage of Enrico "Jack" Villamaino and Courtney Llewellyn's legal troubles. Early on, you wisely stated that you ...
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Clarification

1/2/2013

I offer a number of corrections and supporting facts concerning your tax break article of Dec. 19, 2012. As mayor of West Springfield I submitted the fiscal year 2013 budget to the city council that l...
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Illogical jump

12/26/2012

Editor Mike Dobbs asks us to ponder why the issue of gay marriage no longer seems to be a big deal in hindsight. He argues that this growing acceptance of gay marriage is somehow proof that it was nev...
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Inflation: A hidden tax

12/18/2012

Inflation affects everyone, seniors with fixed incomes, working families, the poor and young people.
Inflation affects our businesses, jobs and economy. Higher prices we all pay for food, gas and nec
...
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Happy holidays?

12/18/2012

Is wishing others "Happy Holidays" at this time of year just being politically correct? There are at least five major holidays being celebrated this December 2012: Chanukah (Jewish) .Yule (Wicca) , ...
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Bah, humbug!

12/12/2012

Some local newspaper editorials and letters to the editor support Chicopee's continued increase in taxes each year. Fortunately, those type attitudes were overcome in 1776. Taxation with or without ...
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Correction

12/4/2012

I must apologize to your readers for my letter last week stating that Chicopee would end up with between $14 and $15 million in reserve. That was based on Free Cash being certified in the $4 million d...
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Hospice care is important

11/28/2012

No one likes to think about death and dying, but it's something everyone has to face eventually. Hospice of Western Massachusetts is an incredible resource in our community that provides comfort, dig...
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Celebrate Veterans Day all year long

11/21/2012

It's never too late to say 'thank you' to our nation's Veterans: even at the end of life
Americans across the country celebrate Veterans Day on Nov. 11, a special day to salute the men and women who
...
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Ask questions

11/21/2012

Chicopee taxpayers need to start asking their mayor and city council members exactly why the average residential and business tax levy has increased again this fiscal year.
According to city records,
...
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Bravo to the planners

11/19/2012

Never in the 50-plus years I have lived and voted in East Longmeadow, have I seen such an overwhelming turnout as there was for the Presidential election on Nov. 6.
What had the potential of being a
...
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Generosity helps family

11/13/2012

On behalf of all of the members of my family I sincerely want to thank all of the people who attended the fundraising event for us at the Melha Shrine Center this past Saturday night [Nov. 3].
The S
...
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Help available to veterans

11/13/2012

On Oct. 27, the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 266 of Granby, conducted its inaugural Halloween Breakfast. The buffet style breakfast included pancakes, eggs, sausage and home fries. We even had our...
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Education system failing

11/5/2012

I've been concerned with the failing education system for many years and while I've no children in school I still find it necessary to alert everyone as to what I feel should be done to improve the s...
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'Bumps in the road' more like potholes

10/30/2012

President Obama has repeatedly stated that the American economy is doing well, as are the American people, especially the private sector, in spite of a few "bumps in the road." Let's look at some of ...
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End assault

10/25/2012

What kind of America are we leaving our children and grandchildren?
Gas is over $4 a gallon. 23 million people are unemployed.
The national debt is $16 trillion. It will reach $20 trillion if Pres
...
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City should be run as business

10/9/2012

The Chicopee assessors "human" tax rate calculation error was fortunately caught. But for residents hoping to see a tax decrease, don't hold your breath. The only way taxes can go down is for the c...
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Jimmy Fund Golf extends its sincerest thanks

10/9/2012

Jimmy Fund Golf extends its sincerest thanks to the organizers and sponsors of the Tom Cosenzi Charity Golf Tournament held on Sept. 10, at Crestview Country Club in Agawam. Special recognition and a...
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Beginning of the end

10/2/2012

The end may be predictable. When I was a youngster, many years ago, there were a few prophecies coming from individuals who either had a hunch or a premonition in their dreams that the earth would en...
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Awaiting the outrage

10/2/2012

I write to comment on the Sept. 20 senate debate between Sen. Scott Brown and Elizabeth Warren. For 53 years I have enjoyed a range and mix of careers in the U.S. Army, human services, higher educati...
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Half truths

9/25/2012

There comes a tremendous responsibility on the shoulders of television talk show hosts when addressing subject matters such as foreign affairs and anything that might stir controversy or be divisive w...
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Looking for a few good men

9/17/2012

Recently, the co-founder of the ITAM-Vets, East Longmeadow, passed away. Peter Verteramo, fondly known as "Uncle Pete," started the Italian-American War Veterans Post 64 some 56 years ago.
Through th
...
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I'm proud of my church

9/4/2012

All too often established churches are seen as out of touch with the needy and poor in their community. My church, St. Michael's Catholic Church in East Longmeadow, is certainly not one of these.
On
...
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Neal needs to stop pretending

8/27/2012

As a supporter of Elizabeth Warren in her run against Scott Brown, I was quite dismayed by your coverage of Sheriff Ashe's Clambake which revealed yet another attempt on Richard Neal's part to link h...
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Decision was wrong

8/22/2012

The Chicopee City Council Zoning Committee voted to deny a special permit for a $ 6 million investment that would return $100,000 in annual taxes to the city. Supposedly it is in an Air Force Reserv...
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Empathy for homeowners

8/13/2012

I would like to take this opportunity to comment on selectwomen's Marie Angelines's [Angelides] article in the July 26 edition of The Reminder (Maza, 2012) that described her idea of creating a plan ...
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Make yourself useful!

8/13/2012

Apparently the world really doesn't need any more lawyers. The unemployment rate for recent law school graduates is the worst it's ever been. And there's no sign of it improving.
I'm sure many people
...
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Dobbs illustrates lack of understanding

8/6/2012

I am writing in response to G. Michael Dobbs' editorial in July 23th edition of The Reminder. As a volunteer for Elizabeth Warren's senate campaign I find Mr. Dobbs' claim that Warren does not want t...
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Go to Warren's website

8/6/2012

I am writing in response to G. Michael Dobbs' editorial in July 23th edition of The Reminder. As a volunteer for Elizabeth Warren's senate campaign I find Mr. Dobbs' claim that Warren does not want t...
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Gun control won't stop shootings

8/6/2012

When the shooting was first reported we knew virtually nothing as to the perpetrator, motive, nor the extent of the danger. Yet within minutes the same old citizen disarmament lobby said we needed m...
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Have you no decency?

7/17/2012

I'm writing in response to letters posted here recently challenging the right of every one living in this country to full health care. After reading these letters, I immediately thought back to the st...
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Reader commends Neal

7/16/2012

I am responding to Michele Marantz's letter of July 9 to 15, in The Reminder.
I find no fault with Ms. Marantz's right to express her opinion of Congressman Richard Neal's record of service to his co
...
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Health care is not a right

7/9/2012

July 9, 2012
Dear Mr. Dobbs,
In response to your query in the July 2 edition of The Reminder, "Is health care a right? Or is it for people who can afford it?" That is a false choice that liber
...
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Health care is not a right, part two

7/9/2012

July 9, 2012
Last week, The Reminder editor asked, "Is health care a right?"
Our founders would have no problem saying, "No." They declared that rights come from God, and rights that come from
...
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Brown shows leadership

6/26/2012

June 27, 2012
The ability to be a voice of reason in an increasingly hostile Senate truly shows the outstanding leadership ability that Scott Brown possesses. By crossing the aisle for several
...
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Hugs and prayers for both families

6/26/2012

June 25, 2012
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and close friends of Officer Kevin Ambrose. This is such a tragedy for the whole community. We should all learn to live together
...
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Board of Health regulation is unfair

6/26/2012

June 25, 2012
The Board of Health of Longmeadow has passed a regulation that forbids dogs accompanying their owners at any outdoor eatery in Longmeadow.
For some 16 years, I have walked my d
...
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Brown's record

6/18/2012

June 18, 2012
The baseless claims against Scott Brown's record on women's issue is truly pathetic. As someone who supports Planned Parenthood, is pro-choice, and voted in favor of the reauthori
...
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Gil Gonsalves will be sorely missed

5/29/2012

May 28, 2012
Big G is retiring and what a loss it is for the town of East Longmeadow and its students. Big G is a man who gave of himself each and every day.
My children and I know how grea
...
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Children's Fishing Derby a success

5/29/2012

May 28, 2012
The Veterans, Ladies Auxiliary and Staff from the VFW Post 9397 in Hampden would like to thank the many people from the local community for supporting this year's Children's Fish
...
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Dobbs is 'probably wrong'

5/29/2012

May 28, 2012
In the May 21, 2012 edition of The Reminder, managing editor G. Michael Dobbs wrote a column called "Warren operating on bad political advice." His argument is that whatever the f
...
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Gambling money has consequences

5/21/2012

May 21, 2012
We are concerned Springfield Mayor Sarno and Development Officer Kennedy are galloping towards the gambling money with blinders on and not looking at all the aspects and consequenc
...
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Diversions

5/21/2012

May 21, 2012
In The Reminder Opinion piece in the May 14-20 issue, editor Mike Dobbs complains that the accusations in the press against Elizabeth Warren are simply "a diversion from the real i
...
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Exciting times

5/15/2012

May 16, 2012
Many young, excitement-loving individuals enter a four year college mainly to satisfy those deep, youthful impulses to bond with others and to be accepted and liked. Once on campus
...
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Help celebrate Memorial Day

5/14/2012

May 14, 2012
There will be a Memorial Day Ceremony on May 25 at noon on the steps of Springfield City Hall, 36 Court St.
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day is a day of remembran
...
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Another Asian restaurant?

5/14/2012

May 14, 2012
Another Asian restaurant in Longmeadow? How is this Asian restaurant any different than the others that already exist?
I was extremely disappointed with the announcement of Ichi
...
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Is your street on the list?

5/14/2012

May 14, 2012
On April 17, the East Longmeadow Board of Public Works (BPW) voted unanimously to adopt Rules & Regulations for Maintenance of Stormwater Basins in accordance with the new General
...
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Afghanistan is failed war strategy

5/7/2012

May 7, 2012
One year after the U.S. assassination of Osama bin Laden, I'm concerned that our government is still pursuing the same failed war strategy in Afghanistan based on bringing "peace" t
...
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Collins, Rooke only thinking of themselves

5/7/2012

May 7, 2012
In response to an article which appeared in the April 23-29 Reminder, I would like to say that as a retired city public health nurse from the city of Springfield, I would like to sa
...
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Collaboration leads to redevelopment in Chicopee

5/1/2012

May 2, 2012
The City of Chicopee recently celebrated the demolition of the Facemate Factory Complex, a milestone achieved through coordination and collaboration between the city and the Patrick
...
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Neal works for the district

5/1/2012

May 2, 2012
I understand that campaign funding is an important part of politics. Having run a local school committee race the expense of running for office is substantial at the local level, s
...
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Dobbs is lazy and wrong

4/23/2012

April 23, 2012
In last week's editorial about an alleged statement by Florida Congressman Allen West, Editor Mike Dobbs violates two of the oldest rules of journalism "consider the source" an
...
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How much can we expect from schools?

4/23/2012

April 23, 2012
As we listen to people who have various opinions regarding the distribution of condoms in the Springfield Public Schools, it is clear that there are many valid points being made
...
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Failure is no option

4/20/2012

April 18, 2012
When considering change to the student-athlete athletic/academic requirements, the movie "Coach Carter" should be mandatory viewing for the Chicopee School Committee, along wit
...
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Letter to Cohen

4/20/2012

April 18, 2012
Thank you for your response to my letter of March 31, 2012 in which I asked you to include clear information about the Senior Property Tax Abatement Program with the Property Ta
...
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Community effort helps cats

3/26/2012

March 26, 2012
In recent weeks, there have been several articles regarding feral cats in area towns. Feral cat colonies are nothing new. They often begin with the abandonment of unneutered hou
...
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Brown is man of his word

3/19/2012

March 19, 2012
Last weekend Scott Brown proved he was a man of his word when he upheld his end of the People's Pledge, which is the historic agreement signed in January by Brown and Elizabeth W
...
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Community colleges must remain independent

3/13/2012

March 14, 2012
Gov. Deval Patrick's proposed plan to centralize administration of the community colleges in Massachusetts would be a huge and costly mistake.
Springfield Technical Community Co
...
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Coach will be missed

3/12/2012

March 12, 2012
Gil Gonsalves has been at the helm of the East Longmeadow Boy's and Girl's Swimming and Diving program for the past 20 years. Prior to taking over as head coach, Gil was the assi
...
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Do-gooder

2/20/2012

February 20, 2012
You can't help yourself, can you?
Comparing overtaxed states of Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York and New Jersey with Massachusetts, when your comparison should ha
...
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Government is the problem

2/20/2012

February 20, 2012
In the recent Reminder, you gave your approval for the tax on candy that has been proposed by the Patrick Administration. You rationalize it by stating that it is such a smal
...
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Create a casino committee

2/8/2012

February 8, 2012
I’m not for casinos or against them but, I believe that people who will be affected by them should understand that having one is not going to solve all of our financial prob
...
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Mayor is tilting at windmills

2/8/2012

February 8, 2012
Chicopee’s mayor must be a fan of Don Quixote.  He’s submitted numerous orders to the city council that have been rejected time and time again, yet he continues to waste thei
...
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Financial priorities are out of whack

2/6/2012

In January, the state announced $14 million will be released for improvement to parks and recreational sites across the state. One million will go to a rail trail in Westfield. In a similar vein, sev...
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Gold is wrong about Candaras

2/6/2012

The negative assessment and comments made by Longmeadow Select Board Chairperson Mark Gold regarding Sen. Gale Candaras’ support of his community’s efforts to recover from the October snowstorm do no...
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Help the Boy Scouts

2/6/2012

We are Boy Scout Troop 275 in East Longmeadow. We have 29 Boy Scouts and store our camping equipment in a wooden shed behind the church that we meet at every Thursday night. The shed has seen its bett...
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Build a new school

1/31/2012

We have lived in the Maple High Six Corners Neighborhood for 29 years. Our sons attended Brookings School many moons ago. It was heartbreaking to see the damage done to Brookings by the June 1st torn...
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Kudos for Newt

1/30/2012

Ashes always fly back into the face of the one who blows them: During the Republican Presidential debate held in South Carolina on Monday, Jan. 16 at approximately. 9:10 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Ne...
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Big Brother is coming to East Longmeadow?

1/16/2012

January 16, 2012
The Reminder
reported last week that the EL Planning Board has prohibited Arbors Kids DayCare from using a short-cut Arbors has arranged with neighboring New England Lumber to
...
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Longmeadow needs a dog park

1/10/2012

January 9,2012
I have been a resident of Longmeadow for most of my life and it is a wonderful place to live.
I am also an animal lover and have noticed for years that there is no place for
...
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Lucky in Hampden

12/27/2011

The 2011 storms have shown me I am lucky to have people like Rick Green of Green Insurance Agency representing Patrons Mutual Insurance Co. Rick was quick to respond, professional and caring.
Also,
...
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Donate glasses

12/19/2011

Did you ever wonder where the glasses go that you put in donation boxes for Lions’ Clubs?
Thanks to the generosity of people in the Greater Springfield area the 16 Acres Lions Club recently colle
...
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Consider other gifts

12/5/2011

As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods — merchandise that has been produced at the exp...
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Let’s move forward

11/21/2011

I was disturbed by the events of the Oct. 11 School Committee meeting where one of the members took the opportunity to publicly express his opinion and a confrontation ensued.
I can appreciate one
...
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Bright light shone through

11/21/2011

In the midst of the darkness that prevailed over the region last week, one bright light shone through — that being the Hampden Senior Center.
Being designated an overnight shelter, Jane Budynki
...
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A storm carol

11/15/2011

T’was the night before the seven day mark, the juice was still out, not even a spark.
While all through the gable, not an outlet was working, not even the cable.
The flashlights were hung by the b
...
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Gas stations need generators

11/15/2011

Gasoline stations should be required by law to have backup generators so that fuel can be distributed in times of power outages; without power, gasoline cannot be pumped.
  Power outages can be either
...
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A million thanks

11/15/2011

The Destephano Family would like to thank all the people who were involved with the operation of the warming shelter at Birchland Park Middle School in East Longmeadow during the power outage caused ...
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Heartfelt thanks to shelter workers

11/15/2011

Sleeping in a shelter was not on my bucket list, but I must say it was an amazing experience and very humbling.
Yes, cots are not comfortable, but we were “sheltered,” fed, and cared for. I met and
...
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Hats off to the DPW

11/15/2011

Hats off to David Gromaski, superintendent and John Collins, operations manager and the entire crew of our town’s Department of Public Works.
To my mind they gave an all-out effort relative to the O
...
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Longmeadow doesn’t need a town manager

11/8/2011

Although I wish Ms. Crosbie, Longmeadow’s Town Manager, success and happiness with her endeavors in finding new managerial opportunities with other communities in the commonwealth, I (unlike others) c...
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Look at the facts

11/8/2011

I just read your Opinion on Mitt Romney, “Show me the proof.” I found your last comment interesting, “can’t abide with the claims that he knows how to create jobs when in government.”
Wanting your re
...
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Is government working for the people?

11/4/2011

October 31, 2011
I served in the military to preserve the American way. I did not serve to defend a deceptive government that works against the people. Government treats veterans in different w
...
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God bless Friendly’s

11/4/2011

October 31, 2011
In response to an Oct. 17 letter to the editor that expressed the author’s personal opinion about Friendly’s, among other things, right to “make money” bankruptcy filing, and i
...
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Fire the mayor

10/25/2011

Chicopee voters have a major decision to make in order to return a professional team to City Hall. 
Do they want to continue the politics that saw the current mayor’s re-election committee caught up
...
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Friendly’s a good place

10/24/2011

I do not agree with Madeline Loder [letter in the Oct. 17, 2011 Reminder]. I was a waitress a long time and Friendly’s is a good place to work. I work at the plant too, and open the lunch room. They...
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Friendly’s is no great loss

10/17/2011

Friendly’s is no great loss for me! I’m interested in good, healthy food. Friendly’s is not in business to promote the health of their customers. They are there to make money, period. I worked as a wa...
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Look beyond liberal bias

10/17/2011

Mr. Dobbs: As usual you are on the wrong side of an issue concerning Mr. Obama. If you could look beyond your liberal bias for a moment, you could objectively look at what Mr. Williams was saying. He...
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Folk music needs young blood

10/12/2011

There is much to say about the here and now and there is no better way to say it than through folk music. Folk music speaks of hard times, and of hope and promise.
Social inequality seems to be the t
...
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Business climate decayed

10/3/2011

The business climate in Massachusetts has decayed over the last few decades. As the state raised taxes, increased fees, and proliferated regulations, business soured, wealth creation dissipated, and ...
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Breast cancer awareness

9/27/2011

You will see a lot of pink this month. October is “Breast Cancer Awareness” month and pink is for the (mostly) women who are affected with this cancer.
Baystate Health and their wonderful Breast Can
...
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Government waste

9/26/2011

Recently Diane Sawyer on TV revealed information about huge government waste currently going on at the U.S. Mint. She clearly stated that the mint was producing one dollar presidential coins at a cost...
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Comfort offered at Rick’s Place

9/20/2011

America was changed forever on Sept. 11, 2001. All of us were affected in some way. Perhaps the silent victims of this day were the children of the victims of this event. On this day, nearly 3,000 c...
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Constitution doesn’t provide aid

9/12/2011

I really have to sympathize with Editor Mike Dobbs’ struggles to get his home repaired after the tornado, which he describes in September 5th’s Reminder. It sounds frustrating. It’s no wonder his vie...
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Hire local people

9/6/2011

While the school superintendent is an important position in our society, it seems their monetary compensation has escalated to a pretentious disparity.
They are paid too much. It seems we went throug
...
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Earn the right to participate

8/26/2011

Not too long ago, a student athlete was expected to pass all classes. According to a Chicopee School Committee at-large member, 25 percent of area schools require the same today.
But why not Chico
...
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Library program a success

8/26/2011

I would like to let the public know that The South Hadley Public Library’s First Adult Summer Reading Program “Novel Destinations” was a rousing success! There were more than 410 library patrons who p...
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Jimmy Fund Golf extends sincerest thanks

8/22/2011

Jimmy Fund Golf extends its sincerest thanks to the organizers and sponsors of the Annual Ken O’Neill’s Dawn to Dusk Golf Marathon held on July 18 at Longmeadow Country Club in Longmeadow. Special re...
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Both parties to blame

8/15/2011

This is an answer to “Vote Out The Incumbents,” which was a reply to, “As Usual Dobbs is Right.”
I agree both parties are to blame, however, if one analyzes what has transpired in the last few years
...
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Commemorating opposition to death penalty

8/15/2011

August 23, 2011 marks the 84th anniversary of the executions of Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1927. To commemorate the date and to build opposition to t...
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Media help the Tea Party

8/9/2011

The Tea Party is bracing itself for yet another surge in its membership as a result of the recent attempt by the liberal media to brand Tea Party members as terrorists. Tens of thousands of individua...
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Contact Patrick on biomass

8/3/2011

The biomass industry has been pressuring the Patrick/ Murray Administration to weaken already inadequate proposed biomass public subsidy regulations. Many scientists, medical groups and environmental...
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Middle class is disappearing

7/25/2011

I have just read your opinion in The Reminder, and want to commend you on the article’s content.
I have been thinking and saying the same thoughts for a long time.
You are right in that the middlem
...
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Athletes need education

7/19/2011

Did I read a recent news report correctly? Did a Chicopee School Committee member really state that it is ok for a student to attend one of our high schools just to play sports? Not to earn a diplo...
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Insurance isn’t for homeowners

7/12/2011


Your statement about insurance explains why some neighborhoods look pretty much the same now as they did the day after the tornado.
The emphasis has been on clearing debris. But when I drive thro
...
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As usual, Dobbs is right

7/11/2011

This is in response to a letter in the Reminder, June 27, 2011 (Dobbs is wrong).
Romney was a lousy governor and he would be a lousy anything.
He is a Republican and their line-up of people for Pre
...
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Iraq, part two

6/29/2011

There’s a bit of sarcasm in the title I chose and nothing at all funny for those serving in that war-torn hot-bed of malice and injustice.
At his confirmation hearing Leon Panetta, the new U.S. Defen
...
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As usual, Dobbs is wrong

6/27/2011

Editor Michael Dobbs takes a number of shots at Mitt Romney in his Opinion piece in June 20th’s Reminder. While Mitt was no Bill Weld, does he really deserve vitriol like Dobbs’ assertion “Where was ...
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National service would be good

6/21/2011

The recent tornado which swept through western Massachusetts is a prime example of people rising to the occasion and feeling good about being able to help those in need.
On April 21, 2009, President
...
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Falling in love with tennis

6/20/2011

We have high hopes that the children of East Longmeadow will fall in love with tennis at an early age and stay with it during their school years and beyond. Although a high school team sport, tennis h...
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An antidote for potential bullying

5/31/2011

As of late, much has been said about bullying and the bully. The word "bully" should not be thought of as singular, for the bully has and is usually part of an entourage of supporters and followers. ...
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Containers too big?

5/31/2011

I have been asked by friends and members of my family to write this letter and ask the proverbial question, "Why didn't the city of Chicopee contemplate using different size containers?"
There are h
...
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E.L. Public Works thanks Arbortech

5/31/2011

The East Longmeadow Board of Public Works wants to thank ARBORTECH Tree Services, LLC for their voluntary contribution to Arbor Day celebrations in East Longmeadow this year.
The owner, Randy Samp
...
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Consultant fee too high

5/31/2011

Will someone please explain to me, as a retired High School of Commerce teacher, why it is necessary to hire a consultant at $800,000, to figure out how to run this school?
How can it be possible tha
...
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Checks and balances

5/24/2011

What is wrong with this picture? Chicopee's mayor has asked the City Council to add a ballot question in November asking voters if they favor officials appointed by the mayor over elected officials...
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Birthers aren't racists

5/9/2011

It never ceases to amaze me that liberals almost always resort to ad hominems, such as "racists", instead of factually confronting an opposing political point of view.
I think it's because facts are
...
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Fire Department seeks your support

5/3/2011

On Monday, May 16, 2011, during the Annual Town Meeting you, as residents of East Longmeadow, will be asked by the Board of Selectmen to support Article 20. This article proposes to eliminate the pos...
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Farmstand farewell

5/3/2011

Many of you have probably noticed the sign for "Joe & Suzi's Farmstand" has been taken down. The decision to do this was not an easy one. BUT, certain neighbors, family members and town officials hav...
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Lifeline saves lives

4/18/2011

After checking my blood pressure from a monitoring box and weighing myself from a scale that was put into my living room. Having done ok on March 27, I followed instructions on March 28 around 8 a.m....
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Consider carefully before voting

4/18/2011

Recently, residents of East Longmeadow have become aware of a proposal by the East Longmeadow Board of Selectman to be voted at the upcoming annual Town Meeting, which would replace the Chief of Polic...
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Change of leadership

4/18/2011

Please be aware of a proposal to change the leadership of the Fire and Police Department from Chiefs (2) to (1) Commissioner There have been four other towns / cities that have tried to do this in Ma...
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Detective bureau long overdue

4/18/2011

I applaud Chief Mellis and Selectmen for deciding to implement a Detective Bureau within the East Longmeadow Police Dept. It has been long overdue and needed to insure follow up that is so necessary i...
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Fair tax is a terrible idea

4/18/2011

The Reminder Editor has challenged readers to consider the "Fair Tax" as an alternative to the current federal income tax. Supporters make it sound alluring, but it is a terrible idea, for 10 to 12 ...
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Biomass raises concerns

4/11/2011

The proposed biomass incineration power plant in Russell continues to raise serious concerns and spark much debate. Similar intense discussion is also occurring in other Massachusetts cities and towns...
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Humbled by generosity

4/4/2011

On Sunday, Feb. 13, there was a benefit held for our family to help us put the pieces back together after a fire at our home. We were incredibly humbled by the caring nature and generosity of this com...
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Existence of gerrymandering

4/4/2011

Since the term gerrymandering originated in Massachusetts, there is little point in debating whether or not gerrymandering exists.
To be fair, both political parties are guilty of political gerrymand
...
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Changing public perception

3/28/2011

The Public Library of East Longmeadow expects changes in its financing, Board of Trustees membership and its public perception. It awaits decisions from town voting, the town meeting and the appropria...
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Demand free and fair elections

3/14/2011

With a ten percent approval rating how do incumbents in Congress keep getting re-elected? One reason is political gerrymandering.
The congressional district of Barney Frank reveals a distorted metho
...
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Dobbs is wrong again

3/7/2011

In The Reminder of February 28th, Editor Mike Dobbs has again posed a series of pointed questions to the conservatives in his readership.
His first question is how in a time of budget deficit
...
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Mayor's actions won't hold water

3/2/2011

Chicopee councilors' approval of placing the water department superintendent under the Department of Public Works (DPW) superintendent as requested by the mayor is a blatant abuse of mayoral authorit...
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Don't cut the arts

2/23/2011

The U.S. House of Representatives is on track to cut $43 million from the National Endowment for the Arts' budget of $167.5 million. That's a 26 percent cut the deepest in 16 years!
Our senators
...
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Importance of CPA

2/16/2011

We would like to recognize State Sen. James Welch and Rep. Nicholas Boldyga, who recently co-sponsored An Act to Sustain Community Preservation. This legislation stabilizes the Community Preservation ...
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Bill would endanger health

2/14/2011

While were fighting a biomass plant proposal locally to protect our air — and our health — some our nation's most important laws for protecting our health and the environment are under att...
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Crop Walks successful

2/14/2011

The Community Survival Center would like to thank all the generous individuals who participated in the Ludlow Crop Walk and the Wilbraham/Hampden Crop Walk last October. A special thanks to everyone ...
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Liberal slant

2/2/2011

In response to your recent article concerning civility in the media. It's no wonder that there is a problem. The blatant "liberal"slant against Republicans is evident as
no Democratic names were menti
...
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Emergency Fund Program needs help

1/31/2011

The Council of Churches needs your help. There are so many individuals and families that need help with heating their homes this year and five days into our 2010-2011 Emergency Fuel Fund program [Jan....
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Blame the liberals

1/31/2011


Editor Mike Dobbs' essay on the blizzard began by describing New Englanders and then morphed into a complaint about his neighbors' actions in response to the blizzard in his Springfield neighborhood
...
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Colleen contest

1/25/2011

Every year at this time, the Chicopee St. Patrick's Parade Committee plans an event which has become a highpoint in the city's winter calendar. The annual Colleen Coronation Ball, which this year ta...
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Laughed hard

1/11/2011

I have to say that I laughed so hard and long when I read in the Springfield Republican that the Governor is reducing our legislatures annual paycheck by $300 dollars a year that I almost soiled myse...
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Be careful what you ask for

1/4/2011

Of course, one of the politically popular things to be saying here in Western Massachusetts these days is that the redistricting for Congress that is going to be required as a result of the 2010 censu...
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Local angels

12/29/2010

I had my Christmas 1 week early. I want to tell you about my experience on Dec. 17. My daughter and I went from my hometown, Burrillville, RI to Springfield to pick up my son from Western New Englan...
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Growing threat for the U.S.

12/29/2010

It can now be confirmed that our 2003 invasion of Iraq proved to be a monumental mistake which has thwarted our ability to combat specifically those responsible for the 9/11 attacks. Not until our pre...
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Fight not over

12/22/2010

Not too long ago, the group Stop Toxic Incineration in Springfield had a guest speaker from Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA). Organizer Ananda Tan told us about anti-incinerator ef...
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A Holiday thank-you

12/20/2010

The Longmeadow Public Works Department would like to extend its thanks and appreciation to Wayne Ottani and Todd Galis of Tree Corp for again stringing the lights on the tree on the Town Green in fro...
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Mayor Knapik thanks Tree Lighting participants

12/14/2010

Many thanks to all of you who made the 2010 Annual Holiday Tree Lighting and Lantern-Light Parade such a success!
The Westfield High School Concert Choir under the direction of Korey Bruno and Kathr
...
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Boss politics?

12/14/2010

In response to the Chicopee City Council not approving a reduction in the number of wards and council and school committee members, Mayor Bissonnette stated "if not now to fix the gerrymandering, I d...
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Answers to questions

12/13/2010

Editor Mike Dobbs asks random questions in this week's opinion column, as though he were playing Andy Rooney. But while Andy answers his own questions, Mike gives readers the opportunity to respond w...
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Exciting, difficult times

12/7/2010

Among the many soul-stirring events that gripped our nation over the past several months was the sudden and unexpected shattering of the half-acre mentality that plagued our nation for decades.
"I
...
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Drivers ignore pedestrian safety

12/6/2010

On Allen and Cooley Streets, the only place a person can cross is at the entrance of Stop and Shop Supermarket, where there is a traffic light. The other place is at the corner of Allen Street, where ...
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Fast drivers cause for alarm

11/29/2010

I drive through streets like my own residential area and popular thoroughfares. Drivers fly by with disregard for people's lives or limb. Drivers say 30-35 miles is too slow. It should be 40. In fron...
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At least we agree on Shemp

11/22/2010

Dear (although we hardly know each other) Mr. G. Michael Dobbs:
I enjoy reading your opinion column, primarily due to the fact that I rarely agree with it. They almost always allow me to test my own
...
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JFK was elected 50 years ago

11/17/2010

This month marks 50 years since John F Kennedy's election and the 47th anniversary of his assassination. In the 1960 debate with Richard Nixon, Kennedy stated he did not believe in bigger government, ...
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Angelides thanks supporters

11/15/2010

I want to thank the voters and volunteers who supported me in my run for State Representative in the 2nd Hampden District. I was honored by the support I received on Election Day.
It has been a won
...
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Fool me once...

11/15/2010

A few short years ago, Massachusetts voters were offered the chance to return the state income tax to 5 percent. The state and its allies cried out "Teachers! Firemen! Policemen!" Suitably cowed, vot...
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"Dead"-icated to all drivers everywhere

11/15/2010

You may have gone through a red light, text, etc. Your lawyer might have gotten you off! On your second or one million mile drive, you do one of the above items (text, etc). A car comes out of nowher...
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Dobbs is a patriot

11/9/2010

Mr. Dobbs,
From time to time you have brought up how important it is to keep our jobs in the USA by buying American made products.
There are no leaders that are sending this message out and in makin
...
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Diocese Pension Move Not Total Freeze

11/8/2010

I want to clear up a misstatement on my part in the Nov 1 story on the freezing of diocesan lay pensions. The diocese will continue to make contributions into our pension program, however those funds...
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A Medical Center here to help all vets

11/2/2010

Since coming to the Northampton VA Medical Center as Director in January, I have been privileged to work with dedicated staff and volunteers who provide our patients with the highest quality healthcar...
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Lack of Site Hampers Senior Center

10/29/2010

Who says the Friends of the Senior Center cannot meet their quota of $2,000,000 for the construction of a new facility? Some city fathers obviously did not speak with President Adele Tawrel when they ...
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Former Representative Mary Rogeness Endorses Marie Angelides

10/26/2010

The Republican candidate for State Representative in the
Second Hampden District, Marie Angelides, was endorsed yesterday by former
state representative, Mary Rogeness.
Ms. Rogeness stated "Marie Ange
...
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Balance in state government

10/25/2010

We need to have balance of power in state government by electing independent thinking leaders who support fiscal responsibility by controlling spending and reducing taxes. State government needs to fi...
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DA's Office Demands Passion, Experience

10/25/2010

Do we really want a DA who holds himself to such low standards of evidence? Buoniconti's "vision" and his "community approach" to the job of DA look very much like classic campaign BS and the only ass...
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Battle Obesity

10/20/2010

Hibernation is not only a torpid condition known to some animals but many humans also pass the long winter months in seclusion. The answer to finding a winter stimulus may lie in an inexpensive and in...
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Camp Bement Alumni News

10/4/2010

The Bement Alumni Association (BAA) is preparing for its first annual meeting and reunion on Oct. 16. We would like to reach out to all Bement alumni and friends of Bement. Join us for a wonderful day...
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Education Antidote to Islamophobia

9/20/2010

I am writing in response and yes in support of Mr. Henry's letter printed 9/6/10 entitled "Dobbs is Wrong again." In it, he discusses many relevant issues relating to the proposed building of the mosq...
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DA Debate Coverage Disappointing

9/13/2010

The Reminder's coverage of the six candidates for Hampden County District Attorney's participation in a forum sponsored by the McKnight Neighborhood Council was more than just a little disappointing. ...
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Dobbs is biased against Goodhines

9/7/2010

The Reminder's coverage of the six candidates for Hampden County District Attorney's participation in a forum sponsored by the McKnight Neighborhood Council was more than just a little disappointing. ...
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Library Circulation Reaches New High

9/5/2010

Your public library has been busier than ever this summer. It just completed a very successful Children's Summer Reading Program, and experienced an ever-increasing demand for items by patrons who hav...
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Advocates for buses

9/1/2010

There has been much discussion about rail service recently, with some advocating high-speed rail service in the region similar to the high-speed rail systems in Europe and Asia. The services there ...
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Good Story

8/25/2010

Katelyn Gendron's article "Rediscover the Tomb of Tutankhamun" was well written and informative. I truly want to go to NYC to see the exhibit having read her story.
In the meantime, Reminder reade
...
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Information, please

8/23/2010

I have been reading with interest recent letters questioning the integrity and capabilities of Marie Angelides in her primary election campaign for the seat of State Representative in the Second Hampd...
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Air Show Snub

8/16/2010

Honor Flight New England honors World War II veterans with free flights to Washington, D.C. to visit and reflect at their memorials at no cost to the veterans. I was among 35 Bay State World War II ve...
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I can do better

8/10/2010

In the August 4, 2010 Reminder State Representative Sandlin is quoted as stating "For those who say they can do it better, I say show me."
I am Anthony Bonavita an unenrolled independent candidate f
...
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Liberal media on the way out

7/28/2010

In spite of the summer heat, membership in the Pioneer Valley Tea Party groups continues to grow. The ongoing mockery and dishonest reporting springing from the national and local liberal media is no...
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Elections bill ill-conceived

7/26/2010

Our State Senate this week followed the lead of the House by voting in favor of electing the U.S. President by the combined popular vote of all the states.
Before everyone cheers, consider that in 20
...
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Come to your local farmers' market

7/26/2010

Now that farmers' market season is in full swing, I hope that all of you reading this will support our local farmers. We are so fortunate here in Western Mass-achusetts and Northern Connecticut to hav...
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Less of the political game wanted

7/26/2010

The race for state representative in the Second Hampden District has generated a lot of interest. The Republican primary will feature two fine candidates; Marie Angelides and Jack Villamaino. Supporte...
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Come to your local farmers' market

7/23/2010

Now that farmers' market season is in full swing, I hope that all of you reading this will support our local farmers. We are so fortunate here in Western Massachsetts and Northern Connecticut to have...
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Freedom is not free

7/23/2010

As a junior member of Medicare, I've lived long enough to see what I feel is the last gasp of a once-great country that was based on Christian principles no matter what our current president says. My...
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Column unfair to Richmond

7/19/2010

As a transplanted Virginian who lived in Richmond for many years, I have to say that I found your recent editorial "States bring unique diversity to U.S." to be unfair and somewhat disingenuous.
Co
...
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Candidate questions opponent's use of Brown photos

7/12/2010

After reading Marie Angelides' response to my initial letter to the editor I am concerned about her "spin" on her use of photos of Scott Brown and Charlie Baker in her campaign pamphlet with the impl...
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Extra litter

7/12/2010

I am doing my best to keep my street and neighborhood free of litter, but that's almost impossible when the alleged newspaper of record The Republican condones and authorizes its circulation peddlers ...
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Consistency?

6/30/2010

Republican candidate for State Representative 2nd Hampden, Marie Angelides, in a letter to the editor to The Reminder (June 14-20) praises rail spending on the Knowledge Corridor. Here is the thing: t...
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Hats off to East Longmeadow!

6/30/2010

Hats off to you, East Longmeadow!
After what occurred at the graduation ceremony for East Longmeadow seniors on Sunday, June 6, 2010, maybe now you'll realize that it's time to secure a large indoor
...
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Legion Post thanks Kopec family supporters

6/21/2010

On May 28, the Gunther Rowley American Legion Post #293 of East Longmeadow hosted a pork chop dinner in memory of Edward J. Kopec, Sr. Forty-one people attended, and the dinner raised $200 to help th...
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Explaining the vote

6/21/2010

As a Longmeadow Registrar of Voters, I am writing to explain the tally in the June 8 town election as reported in last week's Reminder re: "High school galvanized an otherwise apathetic electorate" ...
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Lower taxes

6/16/2010

I support lowering the sales tax to 5 percent because higher sales tax kills jobs and hurts business and working families.
I work for a printing company. If a Massachusetts company wants to buy $15,
...
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Cahill an independent?

6/16/2010

In The Reminder, Editor Dobbs commented on the great expense and effort expended over the "Asian Massage Parlors." He is right, especially when laws people care about are not being enforce because po...
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Census update

6/16/2010

The 2010 Census will continue through the summer visiting households across the country to collect their information. However, not everyone knows that Census Bureau representatives visit or call a sam...
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A generational decision

6/3/2010

As one of the oldest incorporated towns in the Commonwealth, Longmeadow has maintained and embraced its long history and bucolic surroundings. The true New England charm of our town serves a backdrop...
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Holy Cross thanks Sisters' Kids for donation

5/30/2010

The religious education program at Holy Cross Church, located on Plumtree Road in Springfield, wishes to express its thanks to Sisters' Kids children's shop on Allen Street for the store's generous d...
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Bargain day at the voting booth

5/30/2010

If Longmeadow voters decide to accept all that "free money" and approve the proposed debt exclusion for an $80 million high school, and if the Select Board candidates promoted by the Longmeadow School...
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Eight reasons to vote yes

5/24/2010

After much public discussion concerning the path for the Longmeadow High School restoration project, I have concluded that it is in the best interests of our community to extend a "yes" to the project...
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A Longmeadow legacy

5/17/2010

There are very few times in our town's history when a single vote will influence the future of generations to come. This is one of those times.
We are being asked by some to vote for an $80 million c
...
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A student's perspective

5/17/2010

The town of Longmeadow and all of its citizens of voting age are personally, legally and morally responsible for the children of this town, as the generation of voters before you were responsible for...
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Money, ethics and morals

5/17/2010

The episodes of larceny and trespassing that have occurred in Longmeadow over the last few days have convinced me that our high school truly needs fixing. For those who are not aware, there have been...
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Look at littering laws

5/12/2010

Perhaps it is time to check on ordinances and fines regarding littering in our area towns and cities. Some towns and cities have tougher ordinances than state laws which is true in many states across...
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Housewives should have memorial

5/12/2010

No memorials have been built to honor the WWll generation American housewife whose strength of character stabilized our society and served as the underpinnings upon which the massive war effort rested...
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Free Speech

5/4/2010

Your opinion question, "Should free speech be responsible speech?" in The Reminder, and the cartoons following, were never more timely or needed than in the political and social climate of "political ...
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A no vote

5/4/2010

Those of us advocating for a no vote on the new high school construction want to emphasize that we are not voting no for schools! In fact, it is precisely because we do care about our schools and more...
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NEASC accreditation unnecessary

4/26/2010

NEASC, the acronym for the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, first came to my attention a few years ago when it was reported that, due to certain conditions at Longmeadow High School, t...
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Keep your eyes peeled for Hessel's Hairstreak

4/26/2010

Have you seen a Hessel's Hairstreak in Wilbraham lately, like say, in the last 50 years? No, we're not talking about sunbleached hair. We're talking about butterflies! The Hessel's Hairstreak.
Not s
...
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Feeling old

4/19/2010

At a recent Longmeadow School Building Committee forum, two speakers claimed that only a spanking new building would provide the requisite facilities that would enable our young people to compete in t...
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Answering questions

4/19/2010

Mr. Fregeau's letter, dated March 27 and received on March 30, is addressed to "Gentlemen" and states: "Please provide answers to the following questions on or before the close of business Friday 9 Ap...
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Another look at the LHS project

4/12/2010

There is a posting on the Longmeadow High School Building Committee (LHSBC) web site claiming to set the record straight. It states, in part, that "it is important that the facts (their underline) abo...
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Arts are needed

4/12/2010

The arts are proven to help close the achievement gap. The collection of research described in "Critical Links: Learning in the Arts and Student Academic and Social Development" finds that learning in...
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Couple thanks good Samaritans for finding tires

4/6/2010

To the residents of Chicopee:
I am writing to inform you that tonight, you were made proud.
My husband and I were in the area to honor my mother-in-law's last wishes of being spread over the Be
...
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Dear Fellow Residents

4/5/2010

My opponent in the upcoming election has been distributing disparaging material about me which lead to a recent inaccurate newspaper story. I would therefore appreciate a few moments of your time to s...
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Family thanks community for support

4/5/2010

The Vedovelli family would like to thank everyone who attended and/or contributed to our benefit held on March 27 at the Springfield Elks. We are truly blessed to have so many loving friends and famil...
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Dropping dental coverage is mistake

3/23/2010

Recently the media briefly mentioned that Gov. Deval Patrick is discontinuing dental coverage for all adult Mass. Health/Medicaid recipients in an effort to reduce costs. I think dropping dental cover...
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Extra is litter

3/23/2010

For the past few months, now, I have had to deal with the Republican Newspapers policy of dumping their unwanted trash on my property. I do not subscribe to the Republican, and never made any request ...
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LHS is going green

3/22/2010

An energy efficient school is planned for the new high school but there are additional incentives to the town for going "green." In January 2010, the School Building Committee (SBC) held a "green" mee...
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Can't afford increase

3/17/2010

According to a recent report in the Republican, Chicopee's unemployment rate is 12.6% , but that does not include all those unfortunate enough to have had their benefits expire. The true rate is proba...
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Finally, A New High School

3/15/2010

I am a retired music teacher who lives in Longmeadow. My great grandfather, grandfather and father taught me what they knew best, the building trade. They built homes featured in Better Homes and Gar...
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Fiscal Irresponsibility

3/8/2010

As many of you are already aware our town is being asked to approve the largest capital expenditure in its history. At $78,000,000, the new high school building project will bring our town close to ...
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Inaccurate Statistics

3/8/2010

In last week's Reminder, you highlight a story lifted from Alternet with some staggering statistics about hunger, medical costs, etc. in the U.S.
You don't say to what extent you were able to verify
...
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Financing the LHS Project

3/8/2010

The final actual cost of the Longmeadow High School project is probably three years away at best once the mortar sets, the paint has dried and the classrooms are filled with students. What will be k...
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Keep Longmeadow Affordable

3/8/2010

These are critical times for our lovely Longmeadow. Based on recent news articles, the Select Board, and I assume the Finance Board as well, are wrestling with closing a budget gap of approximately $2...
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Common Sense

3/8/2010

In response to the March 1, 2010, Mr. Leo Vartanian's letter to the editor: It seems Mr. Vartanian has a case of common sense. Let's hope it is contagious.
Eleanor Stolar
Longmeadow
...
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Decide on new high school "as if you were paying for the whole thing"

3/1/2010

I attended a Select Board meeting on Feb. 1 and was fascinated with the posturing taking place regarding the proposal to have a special town meeting for the high school project. It seems that this to...
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Free at last

2/3/2010

It seems that everyone who stepped out and campaigned for Scott Brown has a heart stirring story to tell. While the national media has given us a broad, overall picture of the Brown campaign, there we...
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Independent voted for Brown

2/1/2010

I would agree that the election of Scott Brown was not a direct attack on President Obama, but I do believe that there was a message in this election about some positions taken by this administration....
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Democracy?

2/1/2010

That government that cannot or will not serve the best interests of the majority of its citizens and the nation, the "general welfare," security and their posterity, government "of, by, and for the pe...
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Dobbs ignores reasons

2/1/2010

Mike Dobbs' opinion headline in last week's Reminder hit the nail on the head in that the Massachusetts senate election wasn't about Obama. It was, in fact about his policies, not him personally.
Un
...
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It's up to Massachusetts

1/11/2010

Many maybe most Massachusetts voters would naturally want to vote for Martha Coakley to fill Ted Kennedy's seat in the U.S. Senate, but there is a very good reaon why this should not happen. Elect...
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Committee needs leadership

12/31/2009

'The Chicopee School Committee is divided and deadlocked over leadership positions and it shows a new direction is needed. The citizens of Chicopee need a committee that focuses on student performanc...
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Against Health Care Bill

12/28/2009

The "prostitution" phase of the health care debate is now over. Ben Nelson, Mary Landrieu, Bernie Sanders, Joe Lieberman et al. will get the hundreds of millions and even billions promised for their v...
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Codepink Article Was Puff Piece

12/21/2009

Last week's Reminder presented the story of women going to the Middle East under the auspices of Codepink. Their stated purpose was to "take a stand for the people of Gaza."
Although much was said ab
...
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Article Ignores Facts

12/21/2009

On behalf of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, we are writing to express our extreme displeasure with this week's front page article entitled "Massachusetts Women March For Freedom in t...
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Compensating Our Vets

12/21/2009

If you feel that you may have a claim for disability while serving in the U.S. armed forces you may have a right to compensation. This right may compare to workmen's compensation or Social Security di...
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Agrees with cynical side

12/18/2009

Unfortunately, Mr. Dobbs, I am convinced that the cynical side of yourself that you referred to in your column on Dec. 7 is the side of you that is more realistic about the so-called public hearings ...
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Governor's veto disheartening to veterans

12/11/2009

I'm wondering what in the world happened to the country I grew up in? We were promised change. Well we've certainly seen it.
I'm witness to these changes daily, in the veterans', families' and staf
...
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Greyhounds need homes

12/7/2009

Since 1995, Greyhound Options Inc., based in Ware, has been finding responsible homes for retired racing Greyhounds in Western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut. The group does not operate a kenn...
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Longmeadow Sophomore Lock-In a success

12/7/2009

On behalf of the entire sophomore class at Longmeadow High School, the sophomore class officers would like to thank everyone that helped us with our Sophomore Lock-In.
Our Sophomore Lock-In was a h
...
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16 Acres Lions thank you for supporting Christmas Raffle

12/7/2009

The 16 Acres Lions Club would like to thank the many people who bought Christmas Raffle tickets at Stop & Shop stores. The winners of the raffle were Sal A. Hemali from Springfield, Bernice Drumheller...
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Longmeadow is Wonderland?

11/30/2009

I love Longmeadow, the tree-lined streets, the old New England homes, the friendly smiles, the great school system and the genuine feeling of community; there is so much for which to be grateful. Afte...
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E.L. Schools Superintendent answers bullying charges

11/30/2009

A recent letter to the editor described "bullying" at one of our elementary schools and mentioned disagreements between adults outside of the school setting. As is always the case, the school district...
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Defending Bio-Mass

11/23/2009

In recent media coverage, anti-bio-mass activists are claiming that bio-mass plants will strip our forests clean, and that the removal of large quantities of wood chips will not be sustainable. As a l...
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Bullying Forces Girl to Leave School

11/16/2009

The Longmeadow school system, especially Wolf Swamp Road School and research, that bullying begins in third grade. They reactively institute a program in the fifth grade to address this?
I recently
...
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Capuano is the Choice

11/16/2009

The choice of Democratic primary voters in a special election to fill Kennedy's seat should be easy. Although all of the candidates are good and accomplished people, Congressman Capuano is already on ...
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Children's Museum thanks Beaulieu and Sons for support

11/16/2009

The Wilbraham Children's Museum thanks home improvement contractor Fran Beaulieu of Phil Beaulieu and Sons Contactors for their generous donation and extensive support through donations of staff and m...
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Letter to Gov. Patrick

10/26/2009

The East Longmeadow Board of Selectmen, like officials across the Commonwealth, is grappling with serious budgetary pressures. These pressures will only be exacerbated by any cuts you may consider sho...
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A Remembrance

10/19/2009

Many of the residents of Western Massachusetts knew Mark Ecker Jr. as a local hero. He was on the news many times, in several parades, and even pitched for the Baltimore Orioles. We all knew him as an...
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A Stone Soul thank you

10/15/2009

The origins of the Stone Soul Festival began at Forest Park in 1989; the African American community came together for a Stone Soul Picnic. The response was unbelievable; we had every table in the par...
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Job shortage needs national solution

10/7/2009

The employment problem must be solved primarily on a national level.
Massachusetts probably could grow more food locally, but I suspect we no longer have enough land area to grow our own food. Farm
...
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Church Closings

10/5/2009

The cover story in the Reminder, Aug. 31, "More churches to close in the diocese," brings out the lack of leadership in the Diocese of Springfield. Bishop McDonnell and Monsignor Bonzagni fault the la...
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Ecker Family thanks supporters

10/5/2009

We would like to thank all of those who attended and donated to the golf tournament for our son, Sgt. Mark Ecker II. We would also like to extend a special thanks to Bill Brunelle for organizing this ...
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Remarkable house

10/5/2009

A remarkable house stands on the property at 251 North West Street in Feeding Hills. Known to many as the little red house, it has evaded significant alteration for over two years and a half centuries...
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Erica's Friends thank donors

9/29/2009

Erica's Friends 2009 Dinner Benefit raised just over $20,000 for the research of ACC. We had a fun filled evening with about 150 people in attendance to remember a special woman and to raise awareness...
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Fundraiser Signage Theft a Shame

9/22/2009

As Festival Chairman for the Fall Family Music Festival 2009 to be held Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009 at center field in East Longmeadow, I had to let the public know what has taken place in this fine town we...
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Explains action

9/22/2009

We would like to take this opportunity to explain to the general public the Longmeadow Public School's decision to tape President Barack Obama's national education address on Tuesday, Sept. 8 for futu...
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A Good Samaritan

8/31/2009

A greatly admired figure in the Bible is the "Good Samaritan."
The Springfield community has lost a good samaritan with the retirement of Kevin Noonan from the Open Pantry.
Kevin was more than just
...
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Learn About the Bill

8/31/2009

http://edlabor.house.gov/documents/111/pdf/publications/AAHCA-BillText-071409.pdf
Above
...
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Ecker Family Thanks Town

7/27/2009

Our family is truly blessed to have such a community. You have embraced Mark as your own and honored him with love, dignity, and pride. There are so many people who have helped Mark and our family, t...
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Apology to Ecker Family

7/27/2009

During the memorial service for Mark Ecker II this past weekend, my company, Northeast Aerial Advertising LLC, inadvertently flew an aerial ad over the East Longmeadow football field. I had failed to...
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Against Red Light Cameras

7/20/2009

We saw article that Massachusetts is considering the use of red light cameras. We are strongly opposed to these cameras.
These cameras are NOT about safety; it is about raising money on the backs of
...
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Honoring Ecker

7/20/2009

My family, as well as all families in our community, were sadden to learn of Sgt. Mark Ecker's passing. He has been such a wonderful inspiration and role model for so many of us. He is a true Hero ...
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Mark Robbins thanks well-wishers

7/14/2009

To the friends, family and loyal customers of Mark Robbins Jewelers:
I would just like to take a moment to thank everyone who stopped by, called or sent letters to the store out of concern. I have ne
...
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Cancer Society thanks Relay For Life participants

7/7/2009

As the staff partner of this year's American Cancer Society Relay For Life of the Wilbraham Community, I would like to extend my appreciation to the many individuals that attended and supported this y...
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Cultural Significance

7/1/2009

The Agawam Cultural Council takes great pride in bringing many talented artists, authors, musical productions and live theater to our community for everyone to enjoy at no cost for most of our prog...
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Mobile Home Park thanks sponsors

6/22/2009

The Boston Road Mobile Home Park located in Springfield would like to thank the following businesses for their generous door prize donations to our Pot Luck Supper we held on May 16. We would like to ...
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Donate Locally

6/15/2009

I am the Executive Director of the Community Survival Center at 240 Main St. in Indian Orchard. We are a local non-profit agency who assisted almost 50,000 individuals in the last 12 months with basic...
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Explanation Wanted

6/15/2009

In our Massachusetts legislature where Democrats have a 9 to 1 majority, a single vote seldom makes a difference, but Wednesday, June 3, was different. On a tie vote, the legislature defeated a measur...
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Children's Museum thanks supporters

6/15/2009

We want to express our gratitude to the Wilbraham Community Association for providing the Children's Museum with funding for our recent Teddy Bear Picnic and Open House. A generous WCA grant enabled ...
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Economic Rights

6/8/2009

When you are running a country like the U.S. in which the majority of the wealth is owned by a small minority of the people five percent of our population has more money than the other 95 percent ...
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Honoring State Troopers

6/1/2009

As most Americans were preparing to reflect upon and honor sacrifices made by our brave veterans during Memorial Day weekend, the Springfield Sunday Republican chose to run a front page article dispar...
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Losing Art Staff

6/1/2009

In preparing next year's budget, the Longmeadow School Committee asked the Longmeadow High School principal to cut three full time teaching positions. One cut is coming from the English department, a...
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Freedom of Speech at Town Meeting

5/26/2009

An East Longmeadow High School teacher in the 1960s gave the students an assignment to attend the town meeting. As one of those students I have been proud to live in a town with this form of governmen...
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An Answer to a Question

5/26/2009

In this week s opinion, you ask what the bleep is Dick Cheney trying to accomplish with his ongoing interviews criticizing the Obama administration?
How about a dose of reality? Take c
...
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Disappointment

5/26/2009

Although I don t often express myself publicly, I must write of the disappointment I felt after attending the May 18 Town Meeting in East Longmeadow.
Late in the evening Article 18 was presented, w
...
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More Answers to More Questions

5/26/2009

Answer #1: Just as the person who had the idea to put vitamins in water has become a millionaire, the person who thought of to remove the tag on T-shirts has made their million.
Answer #2: (You know
...
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Conflict of Interest?

5/11/2009

The Longmeadow Youth Sports Council (LYSC) sponsored a so-called "open forum" whereby the candidates running for the Select Board positions were all invited questions were asked via e-mail in advanc...
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Endorsement

5/8/2009

I support Steven Legault as Southwick's next Selectman.
Steve is your average hard working guy who supports a family just like most of us.
Steve has a genuine interest in seeing that every citizen
...
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Help for Food Pantry

4/29/2009

The Westfield Emergency Food Pantry would like to thank the generous people and businesses of Westfield and surrounding communities for their support helping in-need families throughout the City of We...
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Audit Committee Info

4/27/2009

Readers may well recall a number of embarrassing and costly misdeeds committed by municipal and agency officials in our region in recent years.
How could such abuses occur? Investigations showed that
...
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Let's keep E.L. clean

4/20/2009

Spring is finally here, and with it, we can anticipate the usual innumerable car washes at the town center. East Longmeadow will once again have some of the cleanest cars in the region since our hard-...
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Leadership & Experience

3/30/2009

The Select Board has reached agreement with all general government and school services on a balanced budget for fiscal year 2010. That s good news! My thanks to Paul Santaniello, Select Board chair,...
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All Shapes & Sizes

3/30/2009

This is a letter in response to an article in the March 10 Reminder, Republican Town Committee Makes Endorsements. In that article, DPW Board Member Michael Perkins states that he switched from ...
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Disagreeing with Dobbs

3/23/2009


It finally happened; I disagree with G. Michael Dobbs.
If young under age people are going to attend places where alcoholic drinks are served, they are going to drink. They do not have to be serve
...
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Health education a must

3/9/2009

There is no reason the Longmeadow School Committee is trying to decide between health and music.
Health education for our high school students is not only important for their high school years, it
...
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Martial Law the solution?

3/9/2009

Some solutions to depressions/recessions known since 1948:
1) Reduce wages of government officials: federal, city, town, state, village and private industry " everyone, every thing. All wages to be
...
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Bad Editorials

3/3/2009

The editors of the Springfield Republican have a bad habit of writing bad editorials. It s not their perspective that is bad; it s their arguments. In the Thursday edition of the paper, the editor...
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Animals in need abandoned

2/23/2009

Call it what you like, but after a 95-year presence, the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cr...
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Money Problems

2/23/2009

Regarding President Obama's proposed stimulus package: Republicans are blaming Democrats for throwing money at problems? Ha! Give me a break. What, pray tell, do the Republicans call all the taxpayer...
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Former Longmeadow Friendly's manager thanks community

2/17/2009

For the last four years I was the franchise owner of the Longmeadow Friendly's restaurant located in the Longmeadow Shops on Bliss Road. I recently sold the restaurant back to Friendly's Restaurant Co...
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Lions Club pancake breakfast a success... Thanks!

2/17/2009

The Hampden Lions Club once again held a very successful pancake breakfast on Superbowl Sunday, Feb 1. This event, attended by more than 270 adults and children, was both fun and relaxing and a time f...
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Dinner Time

2/9/2009

Competing pressures and priorities may be making dinners together a thing of the past for many families. If this is happening to your family, perhaps you need to think about what you're really missing...
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Broad-based taxes are fairest

2/9/2009

I am writing in response to your very reasoned editorial on the state budget and taxes not to disagree with your points, but to look at it from a different angle.
Taxing restaurant meals because th
...
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CORRECTION

2/3/2009

In the Jan. 26 edition of The Reminder the incorrect photographs ran with the story "Stage your home to help it sell." Those photos were of a redesign.
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CORRECTION

2/3/2009

In the Jan. 12 edition of The Reminder, the article titled, "It's easy to read this mother's inspiration," Jacqueline Williams-Hines' series "No Small Victories" was incorrectly referred to as a four-...
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Appreciates Good Samaritans

2/2/2009

We always hear about bad things happening. Well, I have to tell you that there are decent people in this world. I live on Fernwood Drive and lost my husband recently. We had a snow storm and I was bu...
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HP Hood steps up

2/2/2009

A special thank you to HP Hood for their support of the Hampden/Wilbraham U14 "A" Girls Softball Team. The team will be competing in the upcoming spring N.E.Y.S.A. (New England Youth Sports Associatio...
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CORRECTION

1/20/2009

CORRECTION
The ad promoting the Americanview Photo Exhibit at Western New England College in the Jan. 12 edition should have read "opening Jan. 26, 1 - 3 p.m."
...
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Government transparency needed now!

1/19/2009

First, long time residents again request status of high water bill they presented to SB some time ago and is now incurring late fees, Town Manager tells them to pay the bill and late fees as there is ...
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ELHS Music Department thankful for support

1/5/2009

A special thanks to each of you who supported the East Longmeadow High School Music Department by purchasing Florida Indian River Groves citrus. We hope you are enjoying your fruit! This was an extrem...
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16 Acres Lions thank raffle participants

12/8/2008

The Sixteen Acres Lions held their annual Christmas Raffle at the Stop & Shop stores in Springfield. The winners were Joe Mathews of Wilbraham; Karen Kruger of Hampden; and Stephanie Giannakopolos of ...
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Event to Benefit Children's Hospital Boston

12/8/2008

I am the grandmother of two little sweethearts under the age of two. Mattie, who is a healthy 23 month old girl and Addie, who is now only nine months old. Addie has already had two surgeries at Child...
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Chapdelaine Family thanks good Samaritans

11/24/2008

On Friday, Oct. 31 at around the five o'clock hour an incident occurred at the corner of Porter Road and Mapleshade Ave. in East Longmeadow. We would like to thank the good samaritans who stopped to a...
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A Heartfelt Thank You from The Jagodowski family

11/21/2008

The Jagodowski family, along with their friends at the Agawam United Methodist Church and St. John the Evangelist Church wish to sincerely thank all who came out in support of the Lexi Jagodowski Memo...
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Dream Come True

11/10/2008

My dream that we will be saying "President Elect Barack Obama" on Nov. 5 has become a reality.
What an incredible journey it has been. Barack Obama has created history, he has done the unthinkable he
...
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Football Boosters Thank Donors

10/27/2008

The East Longmeadow Football Booster Club would like to thank the many businesses of East Longmeadow that donated raffle prizes for the football dance that was held on Oct. 11. We appreciate your gene...
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In Favor of New School

10/27/2008

The student leaders of Longmeadow High School, as representatives of our peers, would like to advocate for the construction of a new high school. Since its construction in 1955, LHS has undoubtedly pr...
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Hope & Change?

10/27/2008

Well, the cat is finally out of the bag. After four year of campaigning Barack Obama has finally given us a look into what his "Hope and Change" will look like. It was not the throngs of mainstream me...
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Common Financial Sense

10/20/2008

Town residents will be asked to spend over $750,000 under warrant articles 6 and 7 to satisfy an MSBA requirement to prepare a High School feasibility study. We have already spent $25,000 on a recent ...
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Debt Exclusion Facts

10/20/2008

Voters in the Town of Longmeadow will soon be confronted with a decision regarding a Proposition 2 1/2 debt exclusion. The debt exclusion request is specific to the Longmeadow High School Feasibility...
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Longmeadow Residents Should Tour High School

10/14/2008

As a member of the Longmeadow High School Building Committee (SBC), I encourage the residents of the Town of Longmeadow to attend a scheduled Public Tour of the High School on Oct. 18 at either 11:30...
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Against School Uniforms

10/14/2008

To the citizens of Springfield, and the surrounding communities:
I realize that my complaints are coming late. I now fight a battle that, for all intents and purposes, ended last year with the signin
...
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Dedicated Volunteers

10/14/2008

This summer, 16 New York City children found out just how special summer is in the Longmeadow area. Thanks to the dedication of Fresh Air Fund hosts, volunteers and supporters, inner-city youngsters e...
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"A Family Place" shelter needs winter clothing, bedding

10/14/2008

I just received an e-mail from "A Family Place" shelter requesting donations of blankets, winter clothing and sleeping bags for children and adults. Residents are not given blankets when they move in;...
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Lions roar thanks

10/14/2008

The Agawam Lions Club wishes to thank our friends, neighbors, relatives and the generous citizens of Agawam and West Springfield for their response to our call for help at our Chicken Barbecue at the ...
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Big Thank You for Big H

9/29/2008

I would like to thank Patricia Pomeroy for, once again, putting on a wonderful event the Big H. I had relatives come from out of town and they had an absolutely wonderful time. They loved the art ...
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Kudos to Town of East Longmeadow, Henry and Roger

9/22/2008

It is our pleasure to call to your attention the friendly and competent service rendered to us today to correct a problem with our ground water drain.
Our sump pump backed up leaving some 3 to 4 inc
...
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A Glimmer of Hope

9/16/2008

Thanks to a series of articles appearing in the Reminder through the last article appearing in the Sept. 1 edition, the Longmeadow Lions club, holding an orientation meeting at the American Legion Hal...
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A Time For Action

9/2/2008

I printed a sequence of articles appearing in the Reminder these past several weeks thanks to the kindness and generosity of Chris and Dan Buendo, co-publishers, and Courtney Llewellyn, assistant edit...
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Global Security?

8/25/2008

Last December the National Intelligence Estimate, reflecting a consensus of all 16 U.S. intelligence agencies, reported Iran was not attempting to develop nuclear weapons. After a series of intrusive ...
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Many Thanks

8/25/2008

My thanks to friends and family for their help and prayers during my illness. Forever grateful.
Steven Suse and family
East Longmeadow
...
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Enthusiastic Fan

8/19/2008

If you can recount or even read my article of Aug. 4 recanting "the demise of service clubs," I want to apologize for what appeared to be a blanket, generalized comment to those people who either coac...
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Casino Debate

8/19/2008

Mike Dobbs says moral arguments against government-run gambling have always confused him (editorial Aug. 4-10). Well, I don't have any trouble understanding them. Further, expanding the venue to casin...
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Lions Club Disbanding

8/19/2008

I grew up in Longmeadow and have fond memories of Longmeadow Days and the Lions Club parade. How sorry I am to hear that the Longmeadow Lions Club has decided to disband. I would like to thank the mem...
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Mass AREA

8/11/2008

The Massachusetts Affordable Reliable Electricity Alliance (Mass AREA) offers its full support for the Northeast Utilities Greater Springfield Reliability Project. In particular the Northern Route pla...
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Demise of Social, Fraternal and Civic Clubs bad for community

8/4/2008

If not members of these clubs, who? If not now, when? This is a familiar message mentioned in an earlier article attributed to "R.F.K." in his 1964 run for president. The who in the first question re...
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E.L. Police thank National Night Out participants

8/4/2008

On behalf of the East Longmeadow Police Department, Officer Barone and Officer Strohman, we would like to thank all who are currently participating in East Longmeadow's 2008 National Night Out on Aug....
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July 4th Parade Committee Thanks Community for Support

7/28/2008

he East Longmeadow 4th of July Parade Committee wishes to take this opportunity to thank all of the people, businesses, and organizations that provided support for the 2008 4th of July Parade. Without...
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Against Gay Marriage

7/21/2008

In its July 15 decision to repeal a Massachusetts marriage law prohibiting out-of-state persons from marriages in the Commonwealth which would be illegal in their home states, our state Senators took...
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Income tax not necessary

7/18/2008

As Massachusetts citizens we've tightened our budgets and altered our lifestyles to adjust to every rising cost: we've cut back on family vacations and going out to eat; we're planning our trips for e...
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Keep the Open Pantry Open!

7/14/2008

I'm writing in response to the Open Pantry crisis. I am the executive director of one of the local food programs who will be expect...
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Do You Know Where You Live?

7/7/2008

While delivering Verizon phonebooks, I was amazed to see how hard it was to find house numbers.
I know it's not an emergency if you don't get your phone book, but if you should have a real emergency
...
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Hearing Aid Recycle Program thanks participants

6/30/2008

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the numerous families and individuals who participated in the Hearing Aid Recycle Program sponsored by Audiology & Hearing Services of Longmeadow. This p...
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Join Granby Library Summer Reading Program

6/23/2008

If you'd like your child to read more this summer, consider signing them up in the Granby Public Library's Read- at- Home Summer Reading Program "Wild reads at your library". Children are encouraged t...
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Thanks to roast beef dinner sponsors

6/23/2008

Chicopee Firefighters Local 1710 and Lorraine's Soup Kitchen would like to thank Arby's of Chicopee and W. Springfield owners Ton Livingstone, Bob Murray, Tom Livingston Junior and Regional Mgr. Trac...
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Community Survival Center thanks CROP hunger walkers

6/23/2008

The Community Survival Center would like to thank all the generous individuals who spent a Saturday afternoon last October walking for the hungry in their community. The Center is pleased to acknowle...
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Fitzgerald requests your vote for School Committee

6/2/2008

The Longmeadow School Committee race of 2008 is an important and historic one. We have six fine candidates running for three seats on the committee. The election will be June 10 at the Longmeadow Comm...
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East Longmeadow teachers thank town

6/2/2008

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the community of East Longmeadow for the privilege of working with your children. We have been teaching for 76 years (combined total), most of which has...
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Letter Carriers: Survival Center thanks you

5/19/2008

On behalf of the Survival Center staff, volunteers and families, I would like thank the community for their generous response to the 16th Annual Letter Carriers Food Drive. Thanks to the generosity of...
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Chain of Command

5/19/2008

It didn't take long, but it appears the inmates have taken over the asylum.
I thought Mike Wrabel worked for Robin Crosbie, who worked for the Select Board, who in turn, worked for the citizens of Lo
...
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Aircraft tax

5/12/2008

I am writing as Co-Chair of the Aviation Caucus in the House of Representatives to thank the legislators from Western Massachusetts who voted to sustain an exemption on the sales tax on aircraft sale...
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More Commercial?

4/28/2008

In the April 10, 2008 edition of the Longmeadow News, Alex J. Grant wrote a very interesting, I suppose hypothetical, scenario bedroom community, to something more commercial. I wonder if Mr. Grant kn...
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E.L. School Committee thanks Daniel Manley

4/28/2008

East Longmeadow School Committee wishes to thank Daniel Manley for his service to our community as a member of the School Committee. Dan was elected into office in 2002 and served until April of this ...
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Longmeadow Town Meeting April 29

4/28/2008

At this year's Annual Town Meeting, Longmeadow voters will have the opportunity to consider an independent Water & Sewer Commission. Article 29 will ask town meeting participants to make a non-bindin...
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Vote "Yes" on Article 27

4/28/2008

The Longmeadow Historical Society, in conjunction with the Historical Commission, recently submitted a grant proposal to the town's Community Preservation Project. The Community Preservation Committee...
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Aviation Sales Tax

4/21/2008

As the House debates raising taxes, I am writing on behalf of the members of the Aviation Caucus and the House of Representatives who represent airports, aviation-related businesses, or people who wo...
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Town Raises

4/7/2008

What would you say if I told you the top 10 jobs in Longmeadow government have grown during the past three years to total over one million dollars per year plus fringes? No way, I said when that piec...
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Thank You for "Free Shredding Day"

4/7/2008

I sincerely wish to thank the East Longmeadow Police Department (especially Officer Bailey), the Senior Center, Selectmen, volunteers and the Pro-Shred Company for providing a free shredding day for t...
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Successful film festival

4/7/2008

I want to thank everyone who attended the Agawam Cultural Council sponsored March 30th 2008 Foreign Film Festival movie of "La Vie en Rose" held at the Agawam Family Cinemas. The people mingled in th...
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School presents challenges

3/31/2008


Over the past couple of weeks two structural issues at Minnechaug Regional High School have been brought to the attention of the School Committee by the District's administration. On March 11 the
...
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Override

3/31/2008

In mid-November 2007 the Longmeadow Select Board approached the citizens of Longmeadow with a proposition. Approve a $2,150,000 mid-year override now, and we will not come back for another override i...
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Budget Issues

3/24/2008

A week hadn't passed since the citizens of Longmeadow got a reprieve from the excessive water/sewer rate increase than our Town Manager presented us with her FY09 budget. She did it again! In light o...
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ELFD Chaplain thankful for opportunity to serve

3/17/2008

I am writing to offer my thanks and appreciation to the East Longmeadow Fire Department for allowing me to serve as their Fire Department Chaplain for the last nine years. As I leave this role, I want...
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Elms answers call

3/12/2008

As another Spring Break comes to the nation's colleges many students from Elms College in Chicopee will be spending a week in Jamaica, Honduras, and New Orleans. Not for the sand and sea, but to agai...
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Seniors need help

3/12/2008

On March 1st the Republican reported that many of Chicopee's seniors were in dire financial straights due to rising energy costs with some seniors turning down thermostats below comfort levels and oth...
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More Help Needed

2/25/2008

I am thrilled to announce that fundraising efforts to support Ben, the Wilbraham Police Department K-9, are well underway. The police department recently acquired the specially trained "single scent d...
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Acknowledgement

2/18/2008

It only took us about a dozen or so letters, but after our last letter published on Jan. 24, we finally got a reaction from our Town Manager. In the Jan. 31 edition of The Longmeadow News, Robin Cros...
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Street Tagging

2/18/2008

As the Graffiti Remediation Program Manager for the City of Springfield, I have witnessed first hand the negative impact "street tagging" has on our neighborhoods. The blatant disrespect for property ...
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Hope v. Solutions

2/18/2008

This is the new narrative that the Clinton campaign is trying to promote. As the Obama juggernaut marches through February, Clinton has had to shift gears again. The simple fact that she is modifying ...
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Gambling: The Curse of The Working Class

2/18/2008

Jay Gould, the Wall Street robber baron, once said that he could pay half the working people to lock up the other half.
Casinos are a way to get half the working people to fleece the other half. Rich
...
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No More Three Stooges

2/18/2008

Citizens of East Longmeadow have the opportunity to view their local government in action via Channel 5 of the local cable provider. After investing several hours recently watching a meeting of the Ea...
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Turf Wars (continued)

2/18/2008

You say what?.A turf field at the upper fields at the high school so all town residents and town children can use it! At an initial cost of $855,000!
How is this for the reality check.reloam, reseed
...
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Roberts Ponds offers positives

2/13/2008

It isn't every day a city has the chance to purchase property without bonding or negative cash flow and at considerably less than fair market value. The owner of the former Robert's Pond recreational ...
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Survival Center staff thanks you

2/4/2008

Editor's note: Reminder Publications would like to thank all the persons who contributed to our food drive. We received the following letter of gratitude from the Community Survival Center director...
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Grass Fields

2/4/2008

Editor's note: The following letter has been edited due to its length.
Have we given up on natural grass fields here in Longmeadow? I would say that we sure have based on the condition of our
...
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Change in Water / Sewer Rates

1/28/2008

I find it very strange that not one citizen of Longmeadow, who is not a part of our government, has come forward in favor of our new water/sewer program. The only people who are pursuing this concept...
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Library defaced

1/23/2008

A deplorable incident occurred at Chicopee's new Library last week. Late Thursday evening someone defaced the wall and toilet stall in the ladies room.
The staff and patrons were heartbroken to disco
...
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Water/Sewer Refunds

1/21/2008

How would you like to get an interest free loan of several hundred thousand dollars for a little over six months?
That's what Longmeadow's Select Board is demanding from its water/sewer customers. Fo
...
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OWF Regulations Unfair

1/21/2008

e live in Hampden and have been using an outdoor wood burning furnace (OWF) to heat our home for two years. We follow the "best burn practices" recommended by Central Boiler, keep our seasoned wood dr...
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Select Board unresponsive

1/14/2008

On Jan. 7, the Longmeadow Select Board confirmed what most citizens have been saying about them for over a year. This is the worst, least responsive, uncaring group in the memory of our citizens. They...
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E.L. Hockey Booster Club Thanks You

1/14/2008

The East Longmeadow Hockey Booster Club would like to thank the many people that came out to support the ELHS Hockey Program at the Alumni Game in memory and honor of Brian Fazio and the dinner/dance ...
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Turf Sports Fields

1/14/2008

The Longmeadow Youth Sports Council's proposal for $825,000 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding to convert an LHS natural turf field to a synthetic turf field should be declined for a number o...
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Everyone Should Pay Their Fair Share

1/7/2008

At the Nov. 27 Fall Town meeting, specific comments were presented to the Board of Selectmen to correct the detrimental water and sewer (W&S) rates that went into effect on July 1. Many residents, bu...
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Snow removal a problem

1/2/2008

As I drove around the city sometime after after this latest storm I was appalled at the lack of enforcement of the 24 hour snow removal. This law was put on the books to make sure sidewalks and other ...
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Merry Christmas

1/2/2008

We Americans celebrate many holidays as we go thru the calendar year.
In January, we wish people "Happy New Year"! We hear it on the radio and TV. We see ads in newspapers and magazines, too, wishing
...
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Fixing a Mistake

1/2/2008

I was looking at my Town of Longmeadow water bill which is double my cost of the comparable period last year, and wondered what action I should take. Hal Haberman, Longmeadow Select Board chair, was q...
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Support Water and Sewer Rates

1/2/2008

I am writing in support of the recently implemented Longmeadow water and sewer rate system. I believe that the voters of Longmeadow should support this revised rate structure.
My support for the r
...
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Thanks from E.L.H.S. Music Department

1/2/2008

A special thanks to each of you who supported the East Longmeadow High School Music Department by purchasing Florida Indian River Groves citrus. This was a very successful sale and the profits will b...
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Longmeadow High School Hockey Thanks You

1/2/2008

Thank you for supporting the Longmeadow High School hockey program.
The golf tournament was a success again this year thanks to so many people, especially our sponsors. Thank you for your continued s
...
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Great Timing

12/26/2007

An article celebrating the 10th anniversary of Longmeadow's Town Web site www.longmeadow.org was printed in the Dec. 17 issue of The Reminder. I described a basic history of the Web site and how it ...
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Helping Others

12/26/2007

The case of the 83 year old lady in Montague who accidentally lost $1,100 but later received in excess of that amount through the generosity of many people illustrates various messages to me, such as:...
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Obeying the Law

12/26/2007

Without laws there is anarchy, and with anarchy a useful society cannot function. That is why the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has passed a series of General Laws that guide our citizens in their dai...
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Pearl Harbor Ceremony

12/20/2007

I attended the Pearl Harbor ceremony in Westfield on Dec. 7 and thought I would share it with those who weren't there. It was a great experience as this was the first one I have been to.
As I stood
...
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School Street Park

12/20/2007


Usually when I make statements pertaining to the Agawam Community Preservation Committee, I speak as the committee's vice-chair. This time, however, I am making comments as an individual. Though man
...
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You're right, sort of

12/17/2007

You are correct in saying that the media is ramming Hillary Clinton down our throats. But that is always true, the media presents the public with a list of candidates. Then you went and did the same t...
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Thank You

12/17/2007

Once again the Big Y brings great joy with its beautiful sign on highway 291 wishing all a "Merry Christmas." This is not the first year that the Big Y had displayed this lovely message. It brought m...
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Select Board Issues

12/17/2007

At the Dec. 1 Select Board meeting, Chairman Haberman again cut the Visitor Comments short.
Those that were able to speak had comments abput water/sewer bills ... Haberman replied ... "We are working
...
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Thank you for your support

12/10/2007

I would like to start off by thanking everyone who attended out Veterans' Day ceremony in Agawam this year. It was one of the most heavily attended services we have had. I hope to keep this support go...
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Water Commission Actions

12/3/2007

I wonder as an officer of the court, how William Scibelli, Selectman of Longmeadow, can knowingly support the illegal actions taken by the Longmeadow Water Commission, of which he is a member. Our wat...
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Thank You

11/26/2007

On Oct. 13, the "Elvis Mania" Dinner Show was held as a fund raiser for the East Longmeadow Senior Center Renovation Project. It was the truest reflection of a local business supporting the community...
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Snowy Sidewalks

11/26/2007

A federal investigation found East Longmeadow had walks, a.k.a. public facilities in U.S. Civil Rights law, that were not cleared of ice or snow nor to the specifications mandated. A letter to that e...
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Mayoral Election

11/26/2007

Election pundits cited many reasons for Mr. Sarno's upset over Mayor Ryan. Not mentioned was the enmity of Springfield's employees and retirees.
Much of Springfield's recovery was at the expense of
...
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Water and Sewer Rates

11/26/2007

On July 1, a new water and sewer (W&S) rate went into effect as approved by the Longmeadow Board of Selectmen that has been most detrimental to thousands of Longmeadow residents, businesses, houses o...
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Fields of Shame

11/26/2007

The playing fields for the youth in East Longmeadow are a shame. The soccer fields are in terrible condition and in some cases, dangerous to play on. The baseball fields are not far behind. I think t...
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Fair Water Prices

11/19/2007

Just and equitable. That's the standard Massachusetts General Law (MGL) has established for water and sewer prices and rates that a town, through its water commissioners or selectmen can charge.
Ac
...
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Outdoor Wood Boiler Hearing

11/19/2007

Please join us in the East Longmeadow High School auditorium on Nov. 20, 2007 at 7 p.m. and take part in the public hearing to regulate outdoor wood boilers (OWBs).
The Concerned Citizens for Clean
...
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Thank You

11/19/2007

I just wanted to write a letter of praise to Mr. Bradshaw and Ms. Caprara for a wonderful program at Wolf Swamp. The Mileage Club is great!
It not only promotes wellness but also socialization in a
...
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Thanking Our Veterans

11/19/2007

Each year on the eleventh day of the eleventh month we gather as a nation and a Commonwealth to commemorate the service and sacrifice of all who have worn a uniform in defense of our great nation. Pre...
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Accident victim's family grateful

11/12/2007

The family of Matthew Long would like to thank all the kind individuals who helped at the scene of his recent motorcycle accident on Oct. 21 on Cooley St. in front of the Rite Aid Pharmacy. We appreci...
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Valley Radio Reading Service seeks your support

11/12/2007

My name is Kevin Durocher and I am director of the Valley Radio Reading Service here in Springfield.
We make available reading material so our friends and neighbors who are blind and print impaired
...
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Brookside Panthers make Grandfather Proud

11/12/2007

You wonder how some things make grandparents so proud of their children and grandchildren. Not much is written about youth soccer in Springfield and I don't quite understand why. When you attend the g...
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Override Forum

11/5/2007

It was with a high degree of professionalism that William Scibelli, Longmeadow selectman, conducted his Power Point presentation at the forum to discuss the upcoming override. Hundreds of numbers that...
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Override Important

11/5/2007

I am writing in support of the Town of Longmeadow's election of 6 November 2007. I support the override vote, which will be on the ballot that day.
I believe that we should have a record turn out o
...
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Support the Override

11/5/2007

Longmeadow's public officials should be applauded for the override proposal the town will be voting for on Nov. 6. The voters have repeatedly asked for long range thinking from the town's officials. B...
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Minnechaug Lunches

11/5/2007

Some improvements have been made in the Minnechaug cafeteria, but there are still some unsatisfied customers. I am a junior here at the school and I have enjoyed my lunch time experience because they ...
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Veterans Green ceremony in Agawam November 11

11/5/2007

On Nov. 11, 2007, we will be conducting our annual ceremony at the Veterans Green at 10:45 a.m. I am hoping that many of you can make it, as last year was sparsely attended. After speaking to members ...
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Seek to regulate Outdoor Wood Boilers

11/5/2007

Attention East Longmeadow residents: The Concerned Citizens for Clean and Air and Good Health, seek your support in our effort to regulate Outdoor Wood Boilers (OWBs). Presently in East Longmeadow, an...
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Mayor Cohen on Lawn Signs

10/29/2007

"When you've seen theirs...think of me."
I wish to thank all the people who have asked me for Mayor Cohen lawn signs. In keeping with my tradition, I do not put signs on lawns. When you see my oppon
...
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Water Rate Truths

10/29/2007

Sometimes, if you're patient enough, the truth will emerge from unexpected sources. So it was at the Oct. 1 Longmeadow Select Board meeting when the chairman, Hal Haberman, expressed his surprise and ...
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Thank You

10/22/2007

A thank you to everyone who rallied around me on Sept. 15.
On Sept. 15 at around 11:10 a.m., I was parking my Jeep Liberty in Arnold's parking lot on Shaker Road in East Longmeadow. As I was pressing
...
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Town meeting excellent civics lesson

10/22/2007

East Longmeadow's Special Town Meeting held Oct. 15 was an excellent civics course for all who were privileged to attend. There were many lessons:
Residents learned that the selectmen, though they a
...
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No Deficit Spending

10/22/2007


I am tired of it! Like a huge weight hanging over our heads.the cost of the war is affecting us at home.and it makes me sick and tired! It is depressing, frustrating, aggravating and confusing th
...
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Logging update

10/17/2007

The Friends of Robinson State Park (FORSP) wish to provide an update regarding the logging controversy at the park in Agawam.
Contracts for two state timber sales involving red pine plantations
...
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Water and Sewer Rates

10/15/2007

According to Longmeadow's new water/sewer rates, the higher volume users, who place the most demand on the system, will pay a higher rate for the volume of water used. As a town, we have always sprea...
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Sewing Services for Rays of Hope

10/15/2007

My name is Joanne Zemanck and I am a resident of East Longmeadow. My B.S. degree is in Clothing and Textiles with a concentration in Clothing Design. Currently "retired," I worked for the Army in fun...
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O.K. with Puppolo Billboard

10/15/2007

I don't mind seeing the billboard on the highway in honor of Angelo Puppolo. It gives me something to read and ponder while I wait to see what he (and Gale Candaras) will be getting from the Governor...
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Wood-Burning Furnaces

10/15/2007

I would like to know with no rain through August, September, now October, why we can burn in the chimney stoves outside. This only makes sparks flying all over and smoke everywhere.
On Channel 40, t
...
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Heritage Park Pond

10/15/2007

I am so proud of the townspeople who planned, organized and collected lots of donations to make Heritage Park here in town such a lovely playground for our children.
Pride is what has made East Lon
...
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Republican's Debate Coverage Biased

10/15/2007

The Springfield Republican's story on the Ryan-Sarno debate of Sept. 27 was so blatantly biased, it was an insult to its readers!
The one-sided coverage given to Mayor Ryan was appalling and an embar
...
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Demand Information

10/9/2007

On Nov. 6 the voters of Longmeadow will be asked to vote on a $2.15 million override without any special advanced open meeting discussion of the details. Will they be informed that only $1.1 million i...
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Thanks to All from E.L. Garden Club

10/9/2007

The East Longmeadow Garden Club's Center Square beautification committee would like to thank the following businesses and individuals for their monetary donations to the club which purchases and maint...
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Thank you from Erica's Friends

10/1/2007

Erica's Friends Walk to a Cure would like to thank all who participated in our second annual fundraiser held at the YMCA in Wilbraham on Sept. 9. The day was eventful with approximately 900-1000 peopl...
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Override

10/1/2007


The voters of Longmeadow will be asked to make a tough decision on Nov. 6 when a special election is held. All because the School Committee couldn't make a decision in the Spring of 2007. At that ti
...
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Hampden Arts Festival great success

10/1/2007


The BIG H Hampden Arts Festival was a great success. There was wonderful art and musical performances, good food, happy children with painted faces and balloon hats and fun for everyone. Thanks to t
...
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Inflating textbook costs

10/1/2007

Right now, college students at Westfield State College, in my House district, and across Massachusetts are being held hostage by powerful publishing companies by the exorbitant costs of their course t...
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Battle for Fiscal Sanity Has Begun

9/25/2007

Citizens of Longmeadow, the battle for fiscal sanity has begun. With this letter, I ask you to pay attention to what our various boards are doing, and get involved, if you can.
In July 2007 the Selec
...
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Longmeadow Lions welcome Baby Boomers

9/25/2007

We all have read about the number of baby boomers, those born between 1946 to 1964 not to mention the millions born after 1964. We would like to extend an invitation to everyone to join a civic or ...
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Crime

9/18/2007

Mayor Ryan is absolutely right, saying "Crime in Springfield shouldn't be politicized."
Dominic Sarno is also absolutely right, saying, "There is a fear factor in the city."
The mayor should not min
...
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Thank You

9/18/2007

I wish to thank the people who helped me on Thursday, September 6, 4:30 p.m., after my car became disabled at the Pride Gas Station, corner of Pleasant and North Main Streets, East Longmeadow. I could...
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Mayoral Problems

9/18/2007

Editor's note: Do to a spelling error in last week's edition, this letter is being reprinted in its entirety.

The Ex-Mayor strikes out with this voter. His explanations generated enough hot air to i
...
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What's SSI?

9/4/2007

I have read all about the various cures for Social Security; however, I have not seen the basic reason for its problems. There is a lot of talk as to why there is a problem, but they don't go back to ...
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Water flow, jobs and freedom from dependence on oil

9/4/2007

An open letter to the Presidential candidates on how to put people to work and control the flow of water:
The Presidential candidate must be an innovator. He must use precedents from prior administra
...
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Capital Budget?

8/27/2007

On Aug. 13, Kurt Friedman made an in depth presentation to the Longmeadow Select Board regarding the new water/sewer rates. He presented a whole list of numbers, none of which were disputed by the Bo...
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Responds to editorial

8/27/2007

This is just too much!
"The Republican" editors, who are obviously in the tank for close friend Charlie Ryan, have stepped over the line. Sunday's editorial is a tremendous insult to the intelligenc
...
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Misrepresentation

8/27/2007

Once again our Washington representatives have fallen on their faces. In 1993 when the Trade Center was bombed, they did nothing; the end result was 9/11. These people are supposed to represent us. Ho...
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Thank you for spreading knowledge about Fragile X

8/20/2007

Thank you so much for assisting me in spreading the knowledge about Fragile X. It means so much to allow more people to learn about it, because though I reach many people, it is not as many as your re...
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Five Blind Mice

8/20/2007

Forgive me for taking the standard "Three Blind Mice" to a higher plane, but after the five-person Select Board of Longmeadow published the new water/sewer rates, I believe the name I gave them fits. ...
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Closing of clay courts is a shame

8/20/2007

More than two months have passed and my feelings about the apparent demise of the clay tennis courts at Bliss Park haven't changed. Back in the spring when the mentioned four-court facility was not re...
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Thanks to the Longmeadow Senior Center

8/13/2007

I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank the entire staff of the Longmeadow Senior Center for their dedication and hard work and for all the good they do for the seniors in our communit...
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Buying American crucial to our future

8/13/2007

Mr. G. Michael Dobbs, allow me to humbly add my congratulations to the many you have already received on "buying American" and the dilemma the foreign trade situation has bestowed on our workers and o...
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We make our own decisions

7/30/2007

Mr. Dobbs, Congratulations!
You have stated what most people in America will not discuss.
We as Americans have individual choices. When we choose to buy an item that is manufactured in a foreig
...
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Tariffs won't help

7/30/2007

Raising tariffs to protect US industry has been tried many times. It invariably provokes retaliation from other countries, reducing trade, increasing US prices and decreasing US exports. The inevit...
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Rash of break-ins

7/30/2007

Police Commissioner Flynn often says the police need community reporting.
The community needs the police to report crimes in their area.
When an area has a rash of house breaks, they should be rela
...
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Dobbs Wrong about Talk Radio

7/16/2007

As editor Mike Dobbs pays tribute in last week's Opinion Column to citizen journalist blogger Heather Brandon, he takes a sideways swipe at other journalists who simply "re-spin opinions on national ...
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Parade's "Indian Chief" Thanks Committee and Crowd

7/16/2007

Riding a horse in front of thousands of parade-goers can be a very nerve-wracking experience.
I would like to thank some people for making this a fun and enjoyable experience.
First of all I would
...
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Many Thanks from Briannna's Friends

7/16/2007

We would like to thank everyone who helped make the "Summer Starts Tonight" concert, to benefit the Brianna Christine Donovan Foundation, such a successful event. The Waterfront Tavern was packed with...
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Why talk radio is conservative

7/16/2007

Your editorials continue to express your "left wing" leanings and I guess I am, as you described this past week, as "folks on the right wing." Your article on talk radio is accurate except you failed ...
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In Appreciation of Social Workers

7/9/2007

"I won't lie, at first I hated DSS but now I love you guys. I wouldn't be here without you." "I want to thank my social worker. I put you through hell and you were always there for me." "Thank you to ...
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Enjoyed East Longmeadow Parade

7/9/2007

Having just enjoyed your parade, I would just like to thank all those responsible for the July 4th parade.
It was a honor and privilege to attend and be able to salute a true hero, Sgt. Mark Ecker.
...
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The Hampden Lions Club Thanks You

7/9/2007

The Hampden Lions Club would like to thank our sponsors (Acres Power Equipment, Attorney Damion Martin, Attorney Michael Testa, Attorney Timothy Reilly, B-G Mechanical Contractors, Bibeau Fuel Oil, B...
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Halls for All

6/26/2007

I have long held that service to our country honorably done should be recognized in some way. We, in this United States, have honored entertainers and athletes in many ways...especially with Halls of...
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Questions on Skybus

6/26/2007

Your article on Skybus was informative but it left out some inportant facts about the airline.
Skybus ordered all of its planes from a foreign manufacturer, Airbus. By doing so, it chose to employ f
...
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Thank you

6/18/2007

Thank you to the East Longmeadow Parent Leaders who recently collected 800 signatures in an effort to encourage the school committee to fund two additional fifth grade teachers. As parents of a fourth...
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Education concerns

6/18/2007

On Monday, June 18, the East Longmeadow School Committee will meet to discuss the need of an additional fifth grade teacher at Mapleshade and Mountain View schools. The class size projections at Moun...
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No to flouride

6/11/2007

Why vote Yes to discontinue fluoride in our water?
American Dental Association, Nov. 9, 2006, states do not use fluorinated water for infant formula and for young children.Dr. Arvis Carlsson, 2000 Nob
...
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Graditude after disaster

6/5/2007

Our family recently suffered a major loss at our home of 22 years in East Longmeadow. Our garage and two cars were lost along with almost 30 years of possessions, many irreplaceable due to their senti...
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Responding to "Power to the People"

6/5/2007

While the Initiative Petition process allows our citizens to have a say in the development and passing of laws and to amend our Constitution, it does not include the authority to use this process to d...
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Thank You

6/4/2007

Allow me to extend my thanks to the wonderful people who visited the recent Valley Radio Reading Service book sale, at the East Longmeadow Senior Center. We enjoyed the event, met some fabulous people...
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Thank you

5/29/2007

On behalf of the Ecker family, we wish to thank all those who participated on May 20 during the Run For Pride benefit for Sgt. Mark Ecker. Thanks to those who came from communities throughout western...
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Food Drive helps center survive

5/29/2007

The Community Survival Center would like to commend the incredible efforts of the Ludlow, Wilbraham and Indian Orchard letter carriers who participated in the 15th Letter Carriers Food Drive on May 1...
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One-percent decisions

5/29/2007

At the April 23 Longmeadow Town Meeting, about 1 percent of the Longmeadow residents rejected the Article that would give 99 percent of Longmeadow residents a better opportunity to vote on the issue o...
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Pitiful priorities

5/29/2007

Isn't it wonderful how the city of Springfield is getting a chance to be the home of Bart Simpson and family. It's absolutely imperative that we waste no time getting this accomplished. After all, we ...
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City loses if Reilly leaves

5/29/2007

Springfield will be the loser when Michael G. O'Reilly is forced to give up his post as the local head of the F.B.I. O'Reilly has done a remarkable job in investigating and prosecuting the dozens of b...
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Progress being made at Pleasant View

5/29/2007

Pleasant View Senior Center Study Committee Assignment Becomes a Reality Since the appointments of the committee members in May of 2001, we have searched for the answers to the assignment given to u...
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Let's be fair

5/21/2007

Kudos to the Reminder's fair, unbiased report of Dominic Sarno's announcement to run for mayor of Springfield.
Mr. Ryan and the Springfield papers continue to question Mr. Sarno's experience.
Mr. Ry
...
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Power to the people

5/21/2007

The Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has a process that allows the citizens through the Initiative Petition to have a say in their government. When you have judges bent on making laws...
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Memorial Day Message

5/21/2007

Here is a surprise, I am not going to defend the Iraq war. I won't even explain the importance of the war on terrorism. VA budget? Not today. That's because this column is about Memorial Day, a hallo...
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Fundraising for opportunity

5/21/2007

Catherine Lupien, age 9, daughter of Susan Lupien of Springfield and Peter Lupien of Westfield has been recognized for the 2007 National Young Scholars Program (NYSP) being held this summer.
Cather
...
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A place to skate

5/21/2007

We kids of East Longmeadow (who skateboard at least) are very tired of going to Springfield, Somers, or West Springfield just to get to skateboard at a good skate park. If we had a good skate park in...
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Students need exercise

5/14/2007

Today Boston City Councilor Michael Ross plans to file a measure urging members of the Boston School Committee to require students in the city's middle and high schools to devote at least 225 minutes ...
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Buy the books!

5/14/2007

Books .. Books .. Books .. Books for the students. The incessant cry for books comes from the School Committee. Every year, year after year. But this is what I don't understand. Most every year b...
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The Pisani Family Thanks You for Your Support

5/7/2007

The family of Robert (Bob) Pisani wishes to extend their utmost gratitude to everyone in the Longmeadow and surrounding communities, who have been so kind, supportive, and generous to myself, Lauren ,...
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Global Warming

5/7/2007

Please allow me to add to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's suggestions for reducing global warming and waste listed in your April 25 to May 1 issue:
1. Let the sun and air d
...
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Thank You, Whoever You Are

5/1/2007

If all I have to say is thank you that would not be the beginning of my thanks. My wife lost her wedding ring on Friday. Where and when I don't know because she did not tell me until Saturday. She as...
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Proud to Teach at Holy Cross

5/1/2007

In a recent edition, the local daily newspaper gave front page prominence to the declining enrollment of most Catholic schools in the Springfield diocese. We are proud to be teachers at Holy Cross Sch...
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A profile of the Virginia Tech Killer

5/1/2007

By Dr. Bill Knaus

Editor's note: Dr. William Knaus who is a professor, volunteer advocate and author of 12 books, submitted the following piece. Due to space, the article will not run in its entirety
...
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Declining standards

4/24/2007

Speaking of standards and curmudgeons, your column, 3-28-07, either evoked, provoked, or invoked my own on-going dissatisfaction with the declining standards of education in our country, especially ...
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Bring troops home

4/24/2007

On Tuesday, April 24, the town of Longmeadow has an opportunity to take a stand on the protracted, costly, and painful war in Iraq. Article 23 on the warrant for the town meeting asks voters to "go o...
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Keeping Costa

4/16/2007

In the March 26-April 1 issue of The Reminder, the headline reads; "A passing grade: Costa's contract extended by Board". The point of the article is that the School Committee adopted a policy that ev...
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Norcross Heroes

4/16/2007

All East Longmeadow residents have witnessed the transformation of the Norcross House and Carriage House at 89 Maple Street from the neglected ugly duckling to the beautiful "Norcross Yellow" swan. Ho...
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School Matters

4/16/2007

I found a copy of the Longmeadow Annual Town Meeting Warrant & Finance Committee Report in my Reminder this week. Being a responsible Longmeadow resident for thirty years, I diligently read it to kee...
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TRIAD

4/9/2007

My name is Edmund B. Bowen. I am a resident of East Longmeadow and a volunteer member of the East Longmeadow TRIAD organization. TRIAD is a national organization. The East Longmeadow TRIAD is a commun...
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Benefit

4/9/2007

Hi - My name is Jillianne. I am the youngest of six children. I was born at 27 weeks. I am 5 1/2 years old. My first day home from Baystate Hospital after my birth, I was 9 1/2 months old. I was on...
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Unhappy about town's new hire

4/9/2007

I was surprised and unhappy to read about the new Information Technology Director's contract. The starting pay is too high. It is $9,872 more than the former IT director would be making this year ($63...
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Wood smoke is harmful

4/2/2007

As an environmentalist, engineer and professor of alternative energy, the "Inconvenient Truth" is that the irresponsible application of technology can create environmental conditions worse than global...
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Thanks to library staff

4/2/2007

On March 1, 2007, a Library Legislative Breakfast was held at the East Longmeadow Public Library and the public was cordially invited. This event provided a public forum for a lively exchange of new i...
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Thanks

4/2/2007

As honorary captain of the Jimmy Fund's Rally Against CancerSM, I want to thank the residents, students, schools and businesses of Springfield for contributing $8,418.00 to last year's event. Your gen...
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Dedicated troopers

3/26/2007

It was with great pride and joy that my family and I watched my son graduate from the Massachusetts State Police Academy. This outstanding accomplishment represented dedication and hard work on his pa...
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MRHS is the perfect spot

3/26/2007

Voting at the high school is the perfect solution. The school is easily accessible since it's on the main thoroughfare.
Whereas the change to Pines School from Memorial School is a very unfair one.
...
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Benefit for child

3/19/2007

We are writing to ask for donations toward a benefit being held on May 6 at the Elks on Tiffany Street in Springfield for Ethan O'Brien - an unforgettable child.
Ethan is five years old and has many
...
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Let us decide

2/26/2007

Following the recent joint School Committee/ Select Board/ Finance Committee meeting I spoke with the chair of the selectboard about an information request that I am certain can be satisfied (as was h...
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Flouride Fears

2/26/2007

Baby formula or food should not be mixed with fluoridated tap water due to a high risk of fluorosis (spots on teeth) according to the American Dental Association.
Not too long ago the peer-reviewed j
...
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Focus on Flouride

2/26/2007

On Nov. 9, 2006, American Dental Association alerted their members that to prevent dental fluorosis powdered infant formula should not be reconstituted in fluoridated water. The Feb. 12 issue of The ...
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License to drive

2/19/2007

Governor Patrick has recently been quoted as saying that taking up the issue of state police details (and the boondoggle that it is to policemen and unions) is "not at the top of his list." I find it ...
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Town smoking statistics

2/19/2007

As a parent and a resident of East Longmeadow, I was dismayed and greatly disappointed to learn the rate of tobacco sales to minors in this town as stated in the Jan. 26, 2007 article "Illegal tobacco...
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Thank you

2/12/2007

On behalf of the Survival Center staff, volunteers and families, I would like to thank the community for their generous response during the past holiday season by donating over 38,000 pounds of food s...
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Transparency isn't just for show

2/5/2007

In the debate concerning the election of the Longmeadow School Committee's teachers' contract negotiators, I argued that the members we were electing should bring a balanced approach to their task by ...
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Vote for Villamaino

1/22/2007


James D. Driscoll, Chairman of East Longmeadow's Board of Selectman announces his endorsement of Jack Villamaino for the open seat on the Board of Selectman.
Jack is running for the remainder of t
...
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Town needs leader

1/22/2007

The East Longmeadow government came to an abrupt halt with the resignation of Selectman Gary Delisle in early November 2006, and will continue to languish in inactivity until the special election and ...
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No more flouride

1/22/2007

Why has the Longmeadow Board of Health not advised the Longmeadow residents of the November 9, 2006 American Dental Association email alert titled "Interim Guidance on Fluoride Intake for Infants and ...
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Praise for Plaza

1/15/2007

Just a comment on the tremendous improvement to East Longmeadow with the near completion of "Rocky's Shopping Center." The Falcone family spared no expense and has attracted quality tenants such as ...
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Global Warming

1/15/2007

A United Nations panel on climate change recently predicted that the world could warm up between 1.5 and 5.8 degrees by the end of the century - with clear proof that people are to blame. Scientists h...
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School stands up to vandalism

1/2/2007

Editor's note: We received the following letter from a concerned citizen. The reason the article in question did not run on the front page is because it was not a written piece by a staff writer. It w...
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Reflections of an intern

12/18/2006

When I read The Reminder as a young person the last thing I ever thought of was actually writing for the publication. The paper seemed full of hokey information about a town I had no interest in actua...
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Appreciation of sidewalk safety

12/11/2006

July 26, 1990! Bush (41) signed the absolute mandate to state and local government ordering them to construct or modify all public walks, etc. to federal specifications. While some seem ludicrous, m...
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Town meetings leave attendees questioning their intelligence and sense of humor

12/11/2006

I attend Town Meetings because I believe it is my civic duty. Attendance at these meetings usually leaves me questioning both my intelligence and my sense of humor. I am clearly lacking in both areas...
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Boston: The Sequel

12/11/2006

Your article on trash and the truth was way out in left field. Start with #3. Mayor Ryan has changed from a representative elected to serve the residents of Springfield to the voice of doom speaker f...
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Informal Accomplishments

12/11/2006

"What's happening in Boston this week?" is a question I am often asked. Well, Governor-elect Patrick is organizing his new administration; Governor Romney is responding to the constitutional conventio...
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Longmeadow votes for fluoride

12/6/2006

The November 30 Longmeadow Town Meeting yielded rather interesting results and conclusions. All meeting articles that involved additional expenditures were approved at the meeting. The non-binding a...
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Demolishing Historic Homes

12/6/2006

Next week's (12/6) ZBA meeting will decide the fate of the historic Knox House, 1657 Longmeadow Street. If the developer's request is approved by the ZBA the Knox House will be the first historic h...
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Child Appreciation Day

11/28/2006

I am a fifth grade student at Blueberry Hill School. The school has many great teachers that teach in a very fun way and the school's many fun activities. There is a matter I would like to talk about...
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Rebuilding together, after fire

11/28/2006

Bethesda Evangelical Lutheran Church, Springfield suffered a devastating fire in the afternoon of Oct. 22. This ELCA congregation has been serving the needs of the people of Springfield for over 100 y...
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Concerns on zoning

11/28/2006

The following letter was sent to David A. Lavenburg and Phil N. Clark:
This letter concerns the Kane property and the historic home on that site. I was in attendance at the Zoning Board meeting thi
...
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Vote "yes" on articles 16 and 19

11/28/2006

Longmeadow Special Town Meeting Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. Again the fluoride issue will appear. Do take the time to read, www.fluoridealert.org and vote yes to place Article 16 and 19 on the ballot in 2007.
...
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Thank you

11/13/2006

We would like to thank Gina Kahn, HWRSD Risk Prevention Services Coordinator, for speaking at the November 7th Hampden PTO meeting. It was a very informative and lively discussion. Topics discussed ...
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Opposes question one

11/6/2006

Are having more convenient places to shop worth what it might do to our kids? The places residents can already go to purchase alcohol in the towns and Springfield neighborhoods that this newspaper cov...
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Thanks for the support

11/6/2006

We are writing to thank you for the support you extended to the Molly Bish Foundation fund-raiser and Open House that took place at our agency on Oct. 14. It was a great success!
Through various gene
...
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Kudos to the School Committee

10/23/2006

Kudos to the school committee.
I disagree with Diane Nadeau's most recent criticism of the school committee. I applaud the committee for their wise and assertive decision to hire Jahn Hart as Superin
...
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Clerk of Courts Candidates

10/23/2006

Two candidates for Clerk of Courts are quite distinct

Electoral politics can be a very frustrating thing. The race for Hampden County Clerk of Courts exemplifies this notion. The job is an
...
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More Draconian steps taken

10/23/2006

In addition to the Anti-Labor actions of the Mayor and Spfld. Finance Control Board previously cited, more Draconian steps were taken.
They privatized the custodial night work and the cafeteria sta
...
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Land threatened

10/17/2006

On Tuesday, Oct. 3, I attended an East Longmeadow Planning Board meeting regarding the proposed development of a subdivision in the same location where Lowe's previously tried to enter. This new propo...
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There needs to be a crossing guard

10/17/2006

I have to admit, I love being an ER doctor. It really is a remarkable thing to be able to help people during a crisis and to do a little good. True, there are many instances when tragedy occurs and th...
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Older residents are being ignored

10/17/2006

Longmeadow is being chastized for not submitting the results of their voting ballots. Just consider this: I have lived here in Wilbraham since January 1956 and I was able to walk to vote at Memorial ...
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Why the rush to judgment?

10/10/2006

First of all my congratulations and best wishes to Jahn Hart. I personally have spoken in favor of Jahn being our Superintendent of Schools and still believe that she will do an exemplary job. This is...
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Ponder somebody else besides Kerry Healey

10/10/2006

While reading G. Michael Dobbs op-ed piece on gubernatorial ponderings my first thought was why Mr. Dobbs didn't ponder anyone else beside Kerry Healey.
Does G. Michael ever ruminate about how long i
...
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To the voters of East Longmeadow

10/10/2006


To the Voters of East Longmeadow:

Article 5 of the Warrant for the October 23rd Special Town Meeting proposes to bring the salary of the East Longmeadow Cable Access Television (ELCAT) Director fr
...
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They had anti-union/labor agenda from the start

10/2/2006

Springfield's Finance Control Board, Mitt Romney's appointees, had an anti-union/labor agenda from the start. They began trying to nullify all union contracts but lost in the courts.
They switched to
...
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Keep these candidates in mind

9/19/2006

I am writing to remind voters that there is more at stake in the Democratic Primary on the 19th of September than just the Governor contest.
Voters have an opportunity to shape the future of Massa
...
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Not a pleasant visit to Springfield

9/19/2006

During the Labor Day weekend, I came to Springfield to visit some friends before I started my drive out west to Seattle, WA. I was in Springfield for less than 24 hours before my car was stolen f...
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To all of our family, friends and neighbors

9/19/2006

To our family, friends and neighbors.
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the community for your concerning during this difficult time in our lives. Your overwhelming support has be
...
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Campaign editorial can tell you a great deal

9/11/2006

A timely and well thought of campaign editorial or advertisement in a newspaper such as the neighborhood Reminder can tell you a great deal about a product or in this case a person. Let's discuss two ...
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Thoughts on illegal immigration

9/5/2006

A while ago a writer stated the illegal immigrants help the U.S. Therefore we should help them.
Well, here are the facts. It costs the taxpayers $80 billion dollars, that's 80 followed by nine zeros,
...
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Interested in saving Laughing Brook

8/28/2006

It was about a year ago that I had communication with a friend of mine at the Trustees of Reservations (http://www.thetrustees.org/) in regards to the Laughing Brook property and the Burgess legacy. ...
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Thoughts on Laughing Brook

8/28/2006

Thank you for your August 21 article supporting the preservation of the "Burgess Legacy."
I worked thousands of hours at Laughing Brook over more than 20 years volunteering in the era that Laughing B
...
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Legacy is important

8/28/2006

The legacy of Thornton Burgess is of great importance and should be pursued.
However, when Laughing Brook's Mass Audubon was burned to the ground by a pyromaniac a couple of years ago it signaled t
...
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$31 Million for A Rose Kennedy Garden?

8/28/2006

Our legislators in Boston have voted to override Gov. Romney's veto of the $31 million for the Rose Kennedy gardens in Boston. Could someone please tell me why we as taxpayers are funding gardens ove...
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Comments on column

8/7/2006

One issue...That would be ludicrous and narrow minded. On the other hand...the issue of same-sex marriage is multi-faceted and encroaches on many social issues that are prevalent in our society.
...
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Use of language

8/7/2006

The "liberal media" is not being accused of forcing any lifestyle, or for that matter any issue, on anyone. The problem with the liberal media is that their use of language such as: adjectives and ve...
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Buy from local farmers

8/7/2006

If you have not yet patronized a farmers' market this year, you are cheating yourself. Not only is everything fresh, you will find varieties of produce that you will never see in a store. What is ...
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Questions high school plan

8/7/2006

The building of a new Minnechaug, which the Minnechaug Building Committee recommended and the Regional School Committee voted to pursue, or even the possibility of the renovation of the existing Minne...
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Who is to blame for illegal immigrants remaining in the U.S.?

7/31/2006

The following is the legal reason why the recent Senate Legislation as to illegal immigrants should be passed.
The law is not hard and oppressive. It has Equity Jurisprudence built into it, to do the
...
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Libertarians and fireworks

7/28/2006

I think you misunderstood Libertarian philosophy regarding fireworks and noise.
Most Libertarians would allow the sale of fireworks.
That doe not mean that people would be allowed to use them neg
...
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Support for teachers

7/28/2006

This letter is to express our appreciation and show our support for the teachers and staff of Central High School. As we all know, the teachers in the city are in a struggle over numerous contractual...
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Service should be based on committment not salary

7/28/2006

As someone, thankfully, pointed out to me, I short cheated President George W. Bush. He actually makes $400,000 per year not the paltry $200,000 of the past. One doesn't generally think about the pay ...
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Costly Errors in the $30,000 Feasibility Study

7/28/2006

I took a look at some of the costly errors from the Feasibility Study dated Dec. 21, 2004.
The Hampden-Wilbraham School Committee retained an architect for the high school project. The architect per
...
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Seeks information on Anna (Burns) Sullivan

7/17/2006

I am seeking information on Anna (Burns) Sullivan, 1903-1976 (?), a pioneering labor leader. Her parents were Thomas F. Burns and Elizabeth Bleasius Burns (of Chicopee Falls). Anna began working in t...
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Minnechaug school rating is an embarrassment

7/17/2006

Minnechaug Regional High School (MRHS) in Wilbraham was recently notified that the facility was rated "4" in a statewide survey funded by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). This means...
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We are disarming industrially

7/10/2006

Four Million manufacturing jobs have been lost in the past ten years while many of our industries now require offshore manufacturing to struggle to survive against foreign competition. We are no longe...
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Libraries are essential

7/10/2006

Thank you for your front page story on the Hampden Library in your issue of June 26.
A thriving public library in Hampden is an essential component to all communities throughout our nation and the wo
...
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Thank You '99'

7/3/2006

On behalf of the Wilbraham Middle School PTO, I would like to thank the 99 Restaurant for their commitment to our neighborhoods. On June 16 the manager of the Boston Road 99 Restaurant, Jim Crothers,...
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The use of Chapter 90 funds

6/26/2006

I read with interest your front page article on the defeat of Hampden's override. I was one of the people who voted for it, having been convinced by Mr. Pixley that Hampden's roads and drainage system...
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Who cares?

6/12/2006

Pertaining to your editorial dated June 5, 2006. I'm puzzled by the article on the front page titled "Driscoll explores legal options for seat." Who cares. Did his mess up in not completing his State ...
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To all dog lovers and walkers

6/12/2006

Here's a scenario, a fly ball deep to center field. A kid running after it makes a diving catch! The crowd starts to cheer only to be interrupted by a collective EWWWWWW!! Why? Not only did the bo...
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Please join us to help maintain the Norcross House

6/12/2006

Many of you who reside in East Longmeadow, or frequently travel our roads, may have noticed the wonderful improvements over the past two years to the historic landmark known as the Norcross House. Thi...
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Salmon are endangered

6/1/2006

Did you know that salmon are an endangered species? Well they are. Salmon are becoming extinct from our rivers. In order to repopulate salmon we need to stop polluting, put a limit on fishing, and bu...
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Proceed with Caution

5/30/2006

On May 22, John J. Fitzgerald, candidate for Longmeadow Selectman wrote an opinion letter that appeared in The Reminder. It seeks to place residential property owners against commercial property owne...
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Proper Assessing?

5/30/2006

A recent letter of mine needs correction.
Not everyone in Longmeadow had a tax increase! Some "select' properties had decreases from lowered assessments. Certain people at Town Hall and elected peop
...
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Questions Regarding Recount

5/30/2006

There have arisen some questions regarding the recent recount of votes pertaining to Article 39 in the Longmeadow Town Warrant of April 25, 2006.
Article 39 needed a simple majority to pass. After d
...
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Vote YES for Preservation Act

5/30/2006

Longmeadow is always searching for additional revenue sources. The Long Range Planning Committee identified new revenue sources as a key to Longmeadow's future. The Select Board and the School Commi...
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Need EL Residents' Support

5/30/2006

The last few months have had East Longmeadow residents mount an effort to defeat Lowe's move to town. Many arguments have been voiced against keeping this giant corporation out of East Longmeadow in ...
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Adopt the CPA

5/30/2006

For many years, I have listened to Longmeadow residents say they love living in this town of beautiful homes and open spaces, and they want to keep it that way. I have also heard them lamenting that...
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Assistance for soldiers

5/22/2006

Soldiers in the Green Berets and other Special Operations units are returning from Afghanistan and Iraq and we want to inform them of the existence of an organization they may wish to join. We provide...
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Why are all properties assessed at same rate?

5/22/2006

As a resident and taxpayer of the town of Longmeadow for the last 30 years, I have often wondered why the town assesses all properties at the same rate. (The only exception is "Open Space" which inclu...
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An open letter of gratitude

5/22/2006

On Monday evening, May 1, 2006, the Wilbraham UNICO sponsored a fundraising dinner hosted by Il Giardino restaurant on Boston Road in Wilbraham, MA.
The object of their distinguished attention: The
...
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Looking for accountability

5/15/2006

Maybe it is time for our town to think about changing our form of government. As Town Residents, we basically want a good quality of life, along with the majority of our interests represented, and ou...
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Disappointed in portrayal of Autism

5/15/2006

The rate of occurrence of Autism nationwide is at approximately 1 in 150 children at this point in time. In the state of Massachusetts however, a recent study has shown that we have a rate that is si...
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A poem for Memorial Day

5/15/2006

Some stand alone
Mid flags and stones
Though many move about them.
A loved one gone
Gives hearts alarm
And sleepless nights without them.

All did serve well
Kind buddies tell
As some kind letters att
...
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Vote for a change in leadership

5/8/2006

Dear Wilbraham residents and taxpayers:
On Friday, April 28, 2006 I received an "Open Letter to the Candidates" from one of our fellow citizens. He correctly asks that I address the issues of contro
...
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Lower the age requirement

5/8/2006

The other day while visiting the East Longmeadow Town Hall, I was informed by a lovely town clerk that anyone over the age of 70 would be entitled to a complimentary fishing and hunting license. I don...
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Time for change

5/8/2006

Voting in Longmeadow is a learning experience. At our last town meeting, after voting for one of our articles, some people went home because it was late into the night about 11 p.m. When they left, t...
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We can all play a part

5/8/2006

On May 13, the National Association of Letter Carriers of the U.S. Postal Service, will be holding their annual Food Drive. This opportunity gives all of us the chance to help fight the spectre of hun...
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Protect the quality of life

5/1/2006

I am voting Yes on Article 23 at next Monday's town meeting. I understand that this does not affect any industrial jobs we might get. It does not affect any office park we might get. In fact, it only ...
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Why I'm voting yes on 23

4/24/2006

The purpose of zoning in East Longmeadow is to promote the health, safety and welfare of the residents of our town. In our zoning bylaw, we require that business developments "complement and be in har...
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Vote yes for the future of EL

4/24/2006

I am hoping that East Longmeadow will join other towns like Agawam, Boxborough, Westford, South Hatfield and others in passing a cap on the size of buildings.
Any homeowner or resident of East Longm
...
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An opportunity not to be missed

4/24/2006

The retirement of the sitting Chairman of the Board of Selectmen brings with it a golden opportunity for our town:
An opportunity to eliminate the negativism in local government;
An opportunity to
...
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Very pleased with Driscoll's amendment

4/18/2006

I attended the meeting of East Longmeadow First! on April 4 and the Planning Board meeting at the high school on April 10. I was very pleased to find out that Selectman Jim Driscoll has submitted a z...
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Flouridation of Longmeadow water

4/12/2006

The April 25 Longmeadow Town meeting will vote again on the petitions for the referendum on fluoridation of Longmeadow water. Since the only referendum on the fluoridation of Longmeadow water was ove...
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Don't have more candidates to choose from

4/12/2006

I feel it is my duty as an East Longmeadow voter to convey my personal opinion or views in a forthright manner. I would like to discuss our two candidates seeking one of three selectman seats availabl...
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Litter one of many problems

4/12/2006

Litter abundance just one facet of a very shallow culture. Many tread through the paved ways abutting vehicular traffic. When snow blocks and sidewalk safety is abandoned, they contend with vehicular ...
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Dearth of data

4/12/2006

Fran Cress' letter in the March 20 Reminder refuting my contention that our schools are still superior and producing highly educated students caused me to re-evaluate the dearth of data I used to pro...
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Jan. 11, 2006 - Hopes they'll accept invitation

1/11/2006

This is in response to your invitation to House Speaker Salvatore F DiMasi and Senate President Robert E Travaglini in the December 26, 2005 edition of The Reminder.
We have a long hard road ahead
...
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From July 27

7/28/2005

Trash bothers her, too

I read your story in The Herald and I do know how you feel about the trash people are leaving behind them.
I walk to work everyday. I live in Chicopee in a nice area. It's v
...
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Letters from July 20th edition

7/20/2005

Feels pain

Mr Dobbs, the article you wrote in The Reminder, July 13,2005, publication was right on target. I purchased a mobile home in a senior park right next to Wal-Mart in Springfield. I knew I
...
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Letters from The Reminder July 4, 2005

7/4/2005

Longmeadow is more than schools

A letter to the editor from Lynn Travers in the June 6, 2005 Reminder, a mother of a Longmeadow High School freshman, may very well hold a clue to our recent problem
...
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Letter from Chicopee Herald 6/22

6/22/2005

The newspaper is overflowing with graduation jubilations. This is the time of year we celebrate the milestones reached by Chicopee's students. Kindergarten, 8th grade, High School and College Commen...
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needsandwants

...
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