EASTHAMPTON — A city native who has spent his entire 23-year career in law enforcement with the Easthampton Police Department was named police chief on Friday morning
will step into the chief role following Lt
who has been serving as interim chief since former Police Chief Robert Alberti announced that he was stepping down from his post in July
Mayor Nicole LaChapelle announced Alexander’s appointment following private finalist interviews on Thursday
The other finalist for the position was Longmeadow Police Capt
Alexander said he looks forward to increasing the department’s community involvement
prioritizing traffic safety and ensuring the department goes above and beyond state policing standards
Alexander joined the Easthampton Police Department as a dispatcher
a position he held for a year before going on to serve as an officer for almost 22 years
He was promoted to sergeant in 2017 and lieutenant in 2023
Alexander has also been serving as the department’s lieutenant of operations while additionally overseeing firearms licensing
public records requests and many of the department’s day-to-day operations
Alexander told the Gazette that community engagement and community-oriented policing has always been of the utmost importance to him
he pioneered the department’s “Coffee With a Cop” program which was put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic
and its “Cookout With a Cop” program which takes place each August
“You’re going to see a lot more involvement in the community,” Alexander promised ahead of stepping into his new leadership role
“We’re going to be a lot more involved in community service.”
Another goal Alexander has for the department under his leadership is prioritizing traffic safety in the city
full-time traffic officer to protect vehicle operators
He also said that at the “top of the list” of his priorities is pursuing certification and accreditation through the Massachusetts Police Accreditation Commission
He explained that these serve as a vetting process for the department that highlights its compliance with state policing and departmental standards
showing that they are up-to-date with police reforms and operational efficiency
Alexander plans to receive accreditation status for the department
which he said requires compliance with more than 100 more standards than certification status
Though Alexander is stepping into a coveted role in Easthampton’s police force
he said that community relationships remain at the top of his mind
“The big thing with policing in Easthampton is the personal touch
In announcing Alexander’s selection for the position
LaChapelle stated that his dedication to the community made him stand out as the ideal candidate
“Chad Alexander’s deep roots in Easthampton and long-standing commitment to public safety make him the right leader at the right time,” LaChapelle wrote
and professionalism stood out throughout the process
the department will continue to evolve and strengthen its relationship with the community.”
While Alexander was an internal candidate for the position
the city has stated that it did not undergo an internal search process
instead opting for an open search process for both internal and external candidates
Easthampton’s police chief search was facilitated by the contracted consultant group Public Safety Consultants
Alexander’s official assumption of this new position will take place after the City Council confirms the mayor’s selection
likely at a meeting in late May or early June
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The Jeep driven by an East Hampton Town Police officer took out a utility pole
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Tenants at an apartment complex in Easthampton
are facing a large rent increase that goes into effect next month
the increase at Pleasant View Apartments is nearly 35%
has lived in her apartment about five years
She used to pay $1,150 for a two-bedroom apartment
In mid-November she learned the rent would be raised to $1,550 on Feb
Tenants were given 17 days to sign a new lease
who lives off of social security and a part-time job
said she feels scared she will be "chasing rent increases for the rest of her life."
The $400 increase is just putting me over the edge," Dorian said
She said it's difficult to find another apartment
said they were not allowed to discuss anything to do with the apartments
said the city reached out to one of the new owners and asked for a meeting before the rent increase went into effect
Pleasantview Residences LLC bought the 33-unit apartment complex for $4 million in November 2024
according to records with the Hampshire Registry of Deeds
According to a filing with the Corporations Division of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
the LLC is managed by Daniel Scherban and Joseph Scherban from New Haven
EASTHAMPTON — The city has named Easthampton Police Lt
Chad Alexander and Longmeadow Police Captain Carl Mazzaferro as finalists to lead the Easthampton Police Department
Former Police Chief Robert Alberti announced that he was stepping down from his post in July
Dennis Scribner has been serving as the interim chief and leading the department
Mazzaferro and Alexander were chosen from a pool of four selected candidates who were assessed over the weekend by Public Safety Consultants
the consulting group hired by the city to facilitate its police chief search
currently serves as captain of the Longmeadow Police Department
He has served in his current position for about four and a half years
and is also the department’s accreditation manager and training supervisor
Mazzaferro graduated from the FBI National Academy — a 10-week leadership program for police executives
leadership and fitness training to attendees from around the world
“Captain Mazzaferro is a very dedicated employee,” said Longmeadow Police Chief Robert Stocks
“He gives 110% to everything and he is an asset to the Longmeadow Police Department.”
has spent the past 23 years of his career in the Easthampton Police Department
He has been an Easthampton officer for almost 22 years
being promoted to sergeant in 2017 and lieutenant in 2023
Alexander serves as the department’s Lieutenant of Operations
He also began the department’s “Coffee With a Cop” program which was put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic
“He is a very strong leader,” said Interim Easthampton Police Chief Dennis Scribner
“As I’ve been in the interim chief position since last year
I’ve relied on him pretty heavily to assist me.”
the finalists will conduct individual meet and greets with the Police Department and one-on-one interviews with Mayor Nicole LaChapelle
who hopes to announce a final decision in mid-May
the new chief appointment must be approved by the City Council
LaChapelle hopes for this to occur at the council’s second May meeting
The meet and greet session and interviews with the mayor will not be open to the public
LaChapelle explained that Public Safety Consultants and the city chose not to involve the public in this process in an effort to formulate the best and most impartial assessment process for the community
she added that public input has been taken into account through an anonymous public survey that went out before the assessment process began and through the community guidance on policing reforms that have taken root in recent years
“I felt like the community over the last three years has put a lot of thought into the Police Department and what they want policing to look like,” LaChapelle said
She noted that what impressed the city about Public Safety Consultants’ approach to finding a new chief in neighboring communities
was that they don’t use a “cookie cutter” process
they tailor what that process looks like to each community
“Easthampton deserves the very best,” LaChapelle said
“We’re not going to compromise … we wanted a good
LaChapelle said she has been hands off with the search process
especially since the city anticipated internal candidates like Alexander vying for the position
“I wanted to have a fully external search,” she explained
any internal candidates would be vetted through an open search process along with external candidates
The timeline for a final decision will ultimately depend on interview scheduling
EASTHAMPTON — The campaign to become the Easthampton’s next mayor officially kicks off this week
as Lindsi Sekula is the first candidate to announce her intention to become the city’s next chief executive officer
Sekula is currently serving as executive assistant in the Easthampton mayor’s office
a position she assumed when current Mayor Nicole LaChapelle came into office in 2018
she has fallen in love with public service and Easthampton’s community spirit
she feels ready to contribute to the city in a greater capacity by taking a seat at its helm
“It’s not just a profession for me anymore
LaChapelle announced in 2023 that she would not seek reelection for a fourth term
says some of her goals include prioritizing “smart growth” and “community-based leadership” that will serve everyone in her community
was a manifestation of her deep commitment to the community
or finding another way to give back to the city
she said that commitment will remain strong
Sekula moved to Easthampton in 2018 with her partner after living in Northampton
While she has not lived within the city her entire life
with three kids in the Easthampton Public Schools system and aging parents in the community
she emphasized that she is “deeply invested” in the city’s success
In particular, she hopes to be more involved in championing a new senior center for the city if elected. Initial research for the possible locations and designs of a new senior center was concluded in January by the Ad Hoc Senior Center Building Committee, and the city will soon establish a formally appointed Senior Center Building Committee to move forward with planning
Sekula said that one of her main concerns heading into the election is “smart financial planning.” If elected to office
she hopes to create a financial feasibility model that will allow the city to be better prepared in the face of fiscal uncertainty
and prevent any undue burden from falling on taxpayers
Sekula also hopes to revitalize support for the Parks and Recreation Department
and possibly establish a new master plan for the city with a focus on more strategic growth
She noted that the city’s current master plan has a lot of helpful “pieces” within it
but a new plan may be able to bring those pieces together to form a more cohesive and focused vision based on where the city stands now
and where it must go to best support its inhabitants
Collaboration and community support are two of the primary strengths that Sekula has come to appreciate in Easthampton in her time here
and they are strengths she hopes to leverage if elected as mayor
She said that her aim is to foster growth and leadership that works for all of Easthampton’s residents
which means getting those residents involved in as many parts of planning processes as possible
Her time already spent working in the mayor’s office
is an asset when it comes to achieving this
and I know how to make it work for residents,” she said
With her current deep involvement in City Hall
Sekula believes she will be able to hit the ground running and utilize the expertise she has gained to serve the city in a bigger way if elected as mayor
Sekula has filed for candidacy with the Office of Campaign and Political Finance as a Democratic candidate
she is the only organized filer for the upcoming Easthampton mayoral election
The next mayor will be the fourth for Easthampton
EASTHAMPTON — Grappling with both lower enrollment and higher levels of need among students
the Easthampton School Committee approved its $22.8 million fiscal year 2026 budget on Wednesday night
The budget maintains level services for the district and presents a 10.25% increase in spending compared to the current year
Easthampton did not have to make staffing cuts
Easthampton is facing “flat” state aid in the form of Chapter 70 funding
as well as uncertainty around federal funding for programs such as free school breakfasts and lunches
“This is not a hugely aspirational budget,” said School Committee Chair Laura Scott during the budget presentation
The Easthampton Public School District has decreased by more than 170 students since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic
but the number of students identified as having “high needs” has increased since then
While a lower number of students can make securing funding more challenging
and addressing the heightened needs of the student body can drive costs up
Scott explained during Wednesday’s budget presentation that this is “not an Easthampton phenomenon.”
director of business services for the district
saying that this phenomenon is being witnessed statewide — but goes largely unaddressed by the Chapter 70 funding formula
Easthampton is slated to receive $8.9 million in Chapter 70 funding
which is an increase of roughly $117,000 from this year
Both Scott and Saari-Franks remarked that this increase does not keep up with inflation or student need
the district’s current projections indicate a budget deficit of $1.1 million
which they are exploring options for covering
Interim Superintendent Maureen Binienda explained that this deficit came largely from unexpected costs surrounding the needs for special education students
especially out-of-district transportation and tuition
Saari-Franks explained that “most of the increase in the budget is personnel.”
Next fiscal year will be the district’s second year implementing new collective bargaining agreements with more than $1 million in personnel cost increases
more than 55% of Easthampton Education Association teachers will be in the top three “steps” in their lanes
meaning they have taught in the district for a substantial period of time and are highly trained
The district will also be moving half of the salaries for two grant-funded employees from the BRYT classroom into the general fund
as well as hiring a new special education teacher
“We have students that are in a life skills program in the middle school and those students are aging up out of that program and need to be moved to the high school,” Saari-Franks said about the new position
“In order to continue providing those services we need to have a teacher to teach that program at the high school.”
Other budget increases come from a heightened need for out-of-district tuition
rising utility costs and the need to replace some “obsolete technology” in the district
While other districts make large reductions in force
Saari-Franks believes that Easthampton was able to maintain services and increase its budget as a result of “long
thoughtful planning.” Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic
the district maintained a “shoestring budget” and worked to avoid a “fiscal cliff” post-pandemic
Scott had similar commentary about Easthampton’s current position as compared to other districts
“I think Easthampton has always been a working class
gritty at its core community that has been used to stretching every buck,” she said
noting that when the district was “flushed with a one-time influx of cash from the government” during the pandemic
future inflation was kept heavily in mind when it came to spending that money
the district has been “woefully underfunded.”
we’re just never going to gain back those underfunded years
especially with inflation on top,” she said
LaChapelle acknowledged that other districts took different approaches to programming in the past few years
providing services that many Easthampton parents have expressed wanting to see in their own district
Scott said that two examples were foreign language classes at the middle and elementary school levels and expanded STEM programming
the district is “at a loss” despite the 2026 budget looking relatively positive
City councils in Easthampton and Holyoke have unanimously passed resolutions opposing the siting of a lithium battery energy storage system, or BESS, project over the Barnes Aquifer in Westfield
The project, called Streamfield Energy Storage
a Texas company with similar storage sites across the country
It has sparked growing unease among locals due to its proposed siting near the aquifer where Westfield
as well as fears surrounding the potential of long-burning lithium fires at the site
which could release harmful chemicals into the air
The Westfield City Council already passed a resolution in opposition to the project in December
That same month the Southampton Select Board issued a joint letter with the Planning Board calling for further planning before the project moves forward
“BESS failures are such a frequent occurrence that the Electric Power Research Institute maintains a database of BESS failure incidents
whose consequences pose a very real potential threat to our environment
and residents,” the Easthampton resolution reads
The resolution also describes this technology as “relatively new” and “rapidly evolving,” contending that “there is not a well-documented history of the impacts of these projects on local communities.”
Jupiter Power hopes to build the storage system on Medeiros Way in northeast Westfield
utility-scale battery energy storage site connecting to Eversource’s nearby Buck Pond substation
The company expects to spend $170 million on the project
and aims to begin construction in 2026 and wrap up in 2027
This facility would store excess energy produced through renewable power sources like solar and wind
so it can be sent back into the grid and utilized when demand spikes
have been lauded as a relatively new way to expand the capabilities of green energy
and a state clean energy bill passed last year streamlined the process for permitting these projects as a way to meet climate goals
companies like Jupiter Power can seek overrides to local requirements in order to get projects in the pipeline faster
Municipalities where those overrides are proposed don’t get much say in what gets built where
Representatives of Jupiter Power previously told the Gazette that the proposed project utilizes several layers of protection designed to prevent fires and protect the aquifer
But these precautions have not done enough to quell the fears of local residents and politicians
“The smoke from a fire like that would get trapped and likely poison a good bit of the land between Westfield and the Quabbin and Greenfield
impacting our only water source,” Easthampton resident Kathy Wauczinski said at a recent City Council meeting
Easthampton councilors thanked Wauczinski before voting their resolution into action on April 16
as many of them had not known about the vast implications of the project before her advocacy
“I did not realize to the extent of how troubling and damaging this could be,” said councilor Brad Riley
Councilors Jason Tirrell and James Kwiecinski also thanked Wauczinski for speaking up at their meetings
and urged audience members to educate themselves on the proposed project
“We can agree and disagree a lot on a lot of things
but this affects every single person within earshot of me right now.”
Council President Salem Derby voted in favor of the resolution to “put the breaks on” the project
but also noted that “there’s a bigger issue here.” That issue
is the current “climate emergency,” caused largely by the fact that humanity is “addicted to fossil fuels.” Derby said he would like to see the amount of energy put into the opposition of this BESS project directed toward the abatement of fossil fuel usage
the night before Easthampton passed its resolution
city councilors expressed similar concerns about the project
Councilor Meg Magrath-Smith noted that the proposed technology is relatively new
and initially didn’t raise much concern because of a lack of information about the risks of these projects
“Now there are a lot of concerns starting to happen because now we have enough of these facilities
people are starting to recognize patterns in these fires occurring,” Magrath-Smith said
councilor Juan Anderson-Burgos noted the dangers of years of increasing reliance on batteries
which can be hazardous even on their smallest scales if improperly disposed of — which they often are
A battery project of this size brought him to issue a warning
and the ones that are really going to pay for it are our children’s children.”
The upcoming public state Siting Board hearing for the Streamfield project is set for April 29 at 6:30 p.m. The virtual hearing can be accessed via Zoom at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84632716786 or by calling (646) 558-8656 and entering the webinar ID 846-3271-6786
To provide oral comments during the public hearing
email Yonathan.Mengesha@mass.gov providing a name
email address and mailing address by noon on April 29
Written comments must be filed by email or email attachment to both dpu.efiling@mass.gov and donna.sharkey@mass.gov no later than May 13 at 5 p.m
The email must specify the project’s docket number (EFSB 25-04/D.P.U
as well as a brief description of the document
Comments must also be sent to the counsel for the company
the Easthampton poet laureate for 2025-2027
Zaikowski lived in an apartment in Easthampton where she had a view of Mount Tom
“I would look at the view and it felt so comforting
EASTHAMPTON — The city will bid farewell to its outgoing poet laureate
Zaikowski will be inaugurated Saturday at 2 p.m
in the Blue Room at CitySpace in Easthampton
The event also will feature readings by Janet E
will serve a two-year term as the town’s poet laureate
during which she will lead public poetry programming such as readings and workshops
When Zaikowski found out about her new role
so I’m really honored that they thought of me.”
Zaikowski said that her writing process (before editing) involves a certain amount of mysticism and intuition – being “the television receiver and not the remote control.”
Words are my oldest friend and I trust them
so when it wants to come out in verse or highly lyrical storytelling
I just listen to it and I let it happen,” she said
“I try to go beneath the labels and beneath the ego – be a receiver
let it hang out and just show me what it wants.”
Though writing is a personal practice for her
she also sees it as an important tool for activism
especially in a time of political divisiveness
“I feel very strongly about highlighting the importance of poetry and language during turbulent political times and the power of poetry and language to name things
to imagine new worlds and new possibilities,” she said
“and I think it’s an open secret how important the arts are in times like this
“Poetry and all of the arts help us feel safe and help us witness ourselves and help us heal and help us really bring ourselves to light in really beautiful ways,” she added
a poet and tarot practitioner who had been Easthampton’s poet laureate since April 2023
“Carolyn Cushing is an absolutely fascinating person who I have really come to appreciate and love
She really has a way of gently but subversively bringing together things like nature and lyricism and channeling them into commentary about death and grief and synthesizing that into a healing mirror,” Zaikowski said
“She has a subtle witchiness about her that I have come to really appreciate.”
she and Cushing also appreciate that they share a first name – Zaikowski said the two jokingly refer to themselves as “the confluence of Carolyns.” (When Zaikowski told Cushing that this reporter’s name is also Carolyn
Cushing joked that it was “a conspiracy of Carolyns.”)
“I literally never knew any other Carolyns until a couple years ago
and now I know about 20 of them,” Zaikowski said
“We think there’s something bubbling beneath the surface with the Carolyns coming together
arts and culture program director of Easthampton City Arts and the city of Easthampton
“Carolyn’s work is truly a reflection and synthesis of this time we are living in and we look forward to supporting her creative expression and development through this important and meaningful role.”
Zaikowski hopes to have used her role to engage a broad range of people in poetry
especially people who might not have a background in it
“I want to encourage people who are shy or insecure about writing to remember that writing is your friend
and it is a trustworthy process – that poetry has been here for thousands and thousands of years and that you can trust it,” she said
EASTHAMPTON — Sparked by resident worries that an American flag that has flown over Nashawannuck Pond for nearly 25 years between Memorial Day and Veterans Day may have come down for good
a City Council subcommittee began the process Tuesday night of drafting regulations that they hope would bring the flag back
Whether that will happen in time for this Memorial Day in a little more than a month’s time remains unclear
Roughly a dozen residents attended a City Council Property Committee meeting to talk about the importance of the flag as a community symbol
and others sat in the crowd to show solidarity
The flag went up in 2001 as a symbol memorializing those who gave their lives on 9/11
“It’s important to me to see that flag flying over the pond,” said resident Natalie Murphy
who served in the military for more than a decade and has son in the Army
The issue of the flag not returning this year began after Veterans Day last year
when the flag was brought down for the season
the cable the flag is suspended from came down as well
following the request of Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle
Previously
LaChapelle told the Gazette that the flag has been in violation of a national flag code which offers guidelines for how and when flags can be flown on government property
The specific violations cited by the mayor were the fact that the flag is not illuminated at all times
Property Committee Chair Thomas Peake explained at Tuesday’s meeting that currently
the only city document providing guidance regarding flag-flying on government property is a June 2022 mayoral order
This document states that flags can be put up on city property with the approval of the mayor
the committee is working to draft an ordinance that could change that guidance
the committee sought public input on what language should be included in the ordinance
Most of those who spoke requested just one measure regarding the flag: that it be allowed to fly
Residents shared personal testimony about their relationships to the flag
or their frustration that it has been taken down
Others expressed their growing impatience with the matter of the flag
as they felt that city officials have been delaying opportunities to address the issue
The matter was originally taken up in a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, because the flag is anchored in a Parks and Recreation Department managed cemetery on one side. On the other side, it is anchored on private property. The commission then sent the matter on to the City Council
which referred it to the Property Committee
City resident Darlene Orvieto said she thought these delays were “purposeful,” and that she thinks it was “not a coincidence that [the flag] came down right after the election.”
Peake explained that some of the delay in bringing the matter to a Property Committee meeting had to do with turnover on the committee following the resignation of former city councilor and committee member Owen Zaret
and the election of councilor Peg Conniff to the vacated position
who has been heavily involved in the raising of the Nashawannuck Pond flag since its inception
noted that one of the reasons originally cited by the mayor for removing the flag was the fact that it isn’t authorized by a city body
Tautznik countered that the flag over the pond was authorized by the former Cemetery Commission
which preceded the current Parks and Recreation Commission
Tautznik said that the group that flies the flag has formulated a lighting plan to address concerns about 24/7 illumination
Tautznik also emphasized that the reason for the flag’s presence over the pond is to serve as a symbol memorializing those who gave their lives on 9/11
“We do this because we want to remember,” he said
“We do this because we believe it’s the right thing to do.”
Taking a different stance that his fellow attendees
resident Nathan Markee recalled his time living in New York City during 9/11
and recognized the difficult times the flag is meant to pay homage to
Markee said he doesn’t have an opinion on whether the flag should fly
he found the community’s focus on “symbols” to be of minor importance while the Constitution is being “shredded” by the current presidential administration
As the committee moved away from public speak time and into deliberations
leading to repeated interruptions that led the committee to allow a second public speak period
After allowing attendees to air additional frustrations
committee members began brainstorming ways to get the flag up and flying on time for its usual season
Councilor Conniff explained that the current issue in her mind with the flag flying sans an official policy is that it raises questions about “government speak.” Because there is no city language defining which flags are allowed to fly over the pond
Conniff explained that allowing it to continue to fly without official regulations could open the door to many other types of flags being flown on government property
because the city doesn’t handle the raising of the flag
“It’s that we are putting something on a public piece of property that we should just have a policy for,” she said
Conniff and James Kwiecinski — clarified that they have no issue with the flag flying over the pond
Kwiecinski expressed some frustration that the reasons for the flag being taken down have not been made abundantly clear by the mayor
“I would love to know the reasons why the flag is not allowed at this time,” he said
This raised vexation from audience members that the mayor has not attended any of the three meetings held regarding the flag
Kwiecinski later said that he was also “very disappointed” by the mayor’s absence
Mayor LaChapelle did not respond immediately to a request for comment on Wednesday
Conniff said that when she reached out to the mayor about the flag issue
She encouraged her fellow committee members to do the same
Because the committee worried that passing a formal ordinance addressing all flags on government property would not be feasible in the short time period between the meeting and when the flag typically gets raised — around Memorial Day — they explored the possibility of drafting a resolution endorsing the flag
or drafting an ordinance specifically addressing just the flag over the pond
The committee offered a few points that they hope to include in the legislation they plan to begin working on
Nodding to a request from community member Kathy Wauczinski
Conniff noted that there should be official language designating that only the American flag can fly over the pond
The committee also plans to put in writing the set date range that the flag will fly within
and place safety checks on its installation
the flag should also be flown in accordance with the flag code
The committee plans to bring a draft of legislation specific to the flag over Nashawannuck Pond to a meeting at the end of this month
they said that the intended date and time for the follow-up meeting would be April 29 at 5:30 p.m
in the City Council meeting chambers at 50 Payson Ave
A still from “Loser” by Colleen McGuinness
part of this year’s Easthampton Film Festival
A still from “Burn Out” by Russell Goldman
A still from “Tallywacker” by Brendan Boogie
Easthampton Film Festival will return for its fourth year from Thursday, May 1, through Sunday, May 4, bringing with it a slate of movies that were created, in large part, by local filmmakers.
This year’s lineup includes a screening of offbeat comedy shorts on Thursday
at Abandoned Building Brewery; a local feature movie
dramatic shorts and a shorts category called “It’s Complicated” at E-Media
and horror shorts at CitySpace on Saturday
May 3; and a slate of “queer stories” shorts on Sunday
The festival also features several panel discussions
plus a live concert by the band Tallywacker at the Jupiter Club after the movie screening
Festival Director Chris Ferry said that what the festival means to the city of Easthampton is that it brings the potential “to really help community-build from a new angle,” he said
“The local music scene is already existing; it’s already striving.” This festival
helps to “create and develop and foster a local film scene that’s not gonna be quite the same animal
but I think it can be community-building in a similar way.” (In fact
he created the festival as a way to make friends after moving to the Pioneer Valley in 2020.)
One of Ferry’s favorite movies in this year’s festival is the “queer stories” short “Our Last Summer” by Northampton High School student Rose Bennett
about two childhood friends who drift apart
then have to deal with complications created by one friend’s new relationship
“It’s so accomplished and sincere and moving and heartfelt,” Ferry said
“I knew it was a student film; I thought it was somebody in film school
and I was flabbergasted when I found out it was 16-
Another favorite: “Kill For Love,” by Max Wilhelm
a “Thelma and Louise”-esque crime thriller about two friends on the lam
“It’s a little rough around the edges in some ways,” Ferry said
the selection committee has one 20-minute slot left to fill and there are four different films about microbreweries
“Maybe the decision is just as banal as runtime.”
“We had to say no to over 10 films that we all loved,” Ferry said
“There’s only so much you can handle in one season at our scale.”
Easthampton Film Festival is relatively young – its first year was 2022
one of his biggest takeaways has been that “there’s an enormous amount of talent in this area – full stop
but specifically I’m talking about filmmaking.” In his first year
he was worried that he wouldn’t get any submissions he’d want to show
was how uncommon it is for those creatives to know each other
even if they’re based in Easthampton: “We literally live five minutes apart!”
he wants it to be not only a destination event that gets the whole town involved
but also a major developmental opportunity for local creatives – “I don’t want this to just be a fun thing we do once a year,” he said
“It needs to be something more than just a celebration of screening people’s films
I want it to lead by example and actively get involved and say
he’ll have some logistical issues to contend with as he builds the festival – namely
a lack of hotels and a lack of a movie theater in the town
which he cited as the biggest obstacles in the way of immediate growth
“It’s gonna be our biggest and best season yet.”
Tickets to each slate of films are $15 online or at the door with cash or Venmo. Admission to the panel discussions is free. To purchase tickets or see the full film lineup, visit easthamptonfilmfestival.com
Carolyn Brown can be reached at cbrown@gazettenet.com
EASTHAMPTON — After a brief presentation of the work it has achieved
the Easthampton City Council unanimously passed a resolution supporting the work of Easthampton City Arts for its 20th anniversary
City Arts Coordinator Pasqualina Azzarello explained the work that the group has done during the first half of the city’s most recent plan
Although interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic
the presentation noted the development of CitySpace in the old town hall as well as many gatherings of artists and works
“[We were] able to work together to create a space that really valued public process,” noted Azzarello
“I feel so fortunate to be a civil servant and to get to give locally.”
Councilor Koni Denham said that the ECA “emphasizes the integration of art into public [spaces]” and that she looks forward to it continuing to offer and grow its programming
Fellow Councilor Felicia Jadczak added that she knows firsthand the tremendous work that goes into everything the ECA does
as she worked with them for roughly three years before joining the council
Easthampton City Arts is an initiative of the city and its planning department to oversee cultural activities in the city
The council also voted for a resolution opposing the proposed lithium battery energy storage system in Westfield
Noting possible contamination of the city’s water supply at the Barnes Aquifer
no realistic economic benefits and other unknown impacts of such storage
the council’s resolution called for a third-party consultation to address some of its concerns before any project moves forward
In a public hearing to discuss the shrubbery ordinance
expressed concerns about shrubbery that impedes the accessibility of sidewalks and visibility for drivers
Nuttleman explained that there will be no set distance for how far back shrubs must be from the road
then homeowners will be alerted and given a set amount of time to rectify the problem
He added that if the problem has arisen because the property owner is unable to manage the shrubs
then the Department of Public Works will assist.“We’re not trying to create an undue hardship,” said Nuttleman
in town that impede accessibility and visibility
Those are mostly municipally owned and are being managed
The council did add an amendment to the ordinance before passing it that would allow for appeals to be made to the Board of Public Works
I would like to receive emails from The Reminder
is bringing its curated collection of collectibles to the Hamptons with a new store in East Hampton
A Grand Opening celebration for the public will take place on the evening of Thursday
with Tom Brady and the founders of CardVault by Tom Brady
Built around CardVault’s signature immersive retail experience
the East Hampton store offers a showroom with an extensive selection ranging from sealed boxes and packs to individual cards and authentic memorabilia from top brands like Topps
Customers can walk through the store’s signature vault door to find highly sought-after signed jerseys and equipment
limited edition CardVault by Tom Brady merchandise
The experience is finished with a luxurious lounge for customers and VIPs to open packs
Customers can also submit their cards for authentication and grading through CardVault’s grading service in a dedicated grading submission area
As an authorized dealer for industry leaders PSA
CardVault provides collectors with a seamless and cost-effective way to elevate their collections
a community known for being on the cutting edge of art
“Following the successful opening of our fourth store at American Dream in New Jersey
this location reflects our continued commitment to making the hobby accessible and engaging for collectors of all levels
We’re proud to offer a destination where people can connect with the culture of collecting in such a unique and vibrant setting.”
Twin entrepreneurs and philanthropists Shabnam and Shay Safarzadeh officially launched…
We’ve compiled a few dining options to celebrate Mother’s Day…
The Southampton Playhouse presents the first annual Gary Cooper Festival,…
Paumanok Vineyards in Aquebogue will hold a special dinner featuring…
Keyes Art in Sag Harbor presents the exhibit “Migrations,” featuring…
Arthur & Sons in Bridgehampton will reopen for its second…
The “NOFO LIVE” podcast began as a passion project when…
Hamptons Lifestyle Magazine with things to do in the Hamptons and the North Fork
EASTHAMPTON — The Easthampton Public School district joined a coalition of educators
school districts and unions Monday in filing legal action against the Trump administration’s dismantling of the U.S
The complaint was filed by Democracy Forward in the U.S
District Court for the District of Massachusetts in response to mass firings and other cuts put forth by the Trump administration
Other parties alongside Easthampton in the complaint include the Somerville Public School Committee
the American Federation of Teachers-Massachusetts
the American Association of University Professors
and the Service Employees International Union
is representing Easthampton free of charge in this legal action
“We disagree with both the principle behind the actions and the actions themselves,” said Easthampton School Committee Chair Laura Scott
This lawsuit comes four days after Trump’s executive order instructing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take steps to facilitate the closure of the department
Mass firings and some voluntary departures from the department also resulted in the sudden loss of about 2,000 employees earlier this month
The complaint argues that staffing cuts to the department — including the entire staff of the Office of English Language Acquisition
more than half of the enforcement positions for the Office of Civil Rights
the team that supervises the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
and attorneys providing guidance to the department — have rendered it incapable of carrying out its legal duties
In a separate legal action filed earlier this month
Massachusetts and 19 other states also moved to prevent the dismantling of the agency
Scott said that in the wake of the announced Education Department cuts
there has been “a lot of misunderstanding about what the Department of Education does and doesn’t do,” especially surrounding statements by President Trump and supporters that dismantling the department will “give [education] back to the states,” she said
Trump has argued for more educational control to be returned to the states
and has criticized the department as being inefficient
The Department of Education does not set Easthampton’s or any other school district’s curriculum
“We set our own curriculum that just has to meet our state standards,” she said
Scott said that what the Education Department does do is provide vital funding and services to Easthampton’s schools and schools across the nation
Continued cuts to the department’s funding and programs could be “devastating” to Easthampton
which is why this lawsuit aims to put a stop to them
Easthampton’s interim Superintendent Maureen Binienda said Easthampton Public Schools received almost $887,000 this fiscal year from the Department of Education — $554,000 of which goes toward supporting students with disabilities through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
we would not be able to provide those services,” Binienda said
A loss in this area of funding could be particularly impactful for Easthampton
which has a “higher than average” number of students with disabilities and on Individualized Education Programs
Scott also noted that receiving advisory aid from the department’s Office of Civil Rights was of immense help when the district sought to dismantle systemic racial biases at play at Easthampton High School
and our staff rely on the Department of Education for critical data
and services that would be very difficult and costly for our district to replace,” the Easthampton School Committee said in a letter to district families on Monday afternoon
“We feel strongly that joining this case is the right thing to do for our students
and community — and in support of public education.”
Plaintiffs in the lawsuit argue that the federal agency performs essential work authorized by Congress
and that the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle it therefore raise “important constitutional issues.”
EASTHAMPTON — The Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park was denied its request for $31,000 in Community Preservation Act funding to begin work at the future site of the dog park within Nonotuck Park
The city’s Parks and Recreation Committee denied the request during its April 9 meeting
The Parks and Recreation meeting took place to review the different organization’s CPA applications for projects at Nonotuck Park for this round of CPA funds
They ultimately decided to not move forward on the dog park request as they noted the Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park was only asking for funding to support an initial phase of its work
“I went with a couple of board members to find out what exactly they are looking for because we have the approval site and the draft schematics,” said Friends of Easthampton Dog Park President Joan Kurtz
“They pointed out that the way the Parks and Rec
they need to see that the funds are available for the entire project so that they know when they start
The $31,000 request would have gone toward the first phase of constructing the park
“The first step in building the dog park in Nonotuck Park is the removal of the trees that would be inside of the dog park,” explained Kurtz
We want trees in the park for shade and also acting as buffers for the rest of the park
that have to be removed for safety purposes and just to give us more space
But we are leaving it as green as possible.”
The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission voted in December to have the future dog park be constructed on the parcel between Pavilion 3 and Booster Field within Nonotuck Park
Kurtz said the Friends had not requested the entirety of funding for the project through the CPA
as they thought they would be able to secure some at this point to begin the process before coming back for the additional funds
“Therefore it was determined that the Parks and Rec
and they have to before the CPA can,” Kurtz added
The group is continuing to call on the public to get involved through its “Sponsorship Solicitation.” Those who fill out the form can pledge some financial assistance for the new park
Those looking for more information or to support the new dog park project can email easthamptondogpark@gmail.com to receive a sponsorship form to be filled out and mailed in
Pledges are encouraged to be submitted before the May 17 meeting so the group can demonstrate sincerity and passionate support from the community backing the project
those who get involved will have a few options of donating toward the project including a dog waste station
The “Top Dog Sponsorship” includes a commitment of $2,500 or more and includes naming rights of a dog park feature of amenity
being listed as a sponsor or donor signage
special recognition at the groundbreaking and ribbon cutting
and recognition on the park’s website and social media as a “Top Dog.”
Other levels of pledges include a $1,000 pledge
Actual monies will not be needed until early fall but will be accepted at any time
As the Friends of the Easthampton Dog Park take a step back to reconfigure its approach
Kurtz said they will continue to call on the public for support as they rework a future request and approach to securing the needed CPA funding
“Now we’re just going to go full speed ahead and do even much more
we all understand now the process,” Kurtz said
Kurtz shared that the Friends will be meeting with Parks and Recreation sometime in May to further discuss what a new request should look like
Kurtz reiterated this project was not requesting a single dime from the city itself and it has always been something they aimed to accomplish solely through community support
“We are not expecting any taxes or any funds from the city
“A number of people have done public speak and said
‘I don’t want a dog park.’ We don’t want any funds
We will constantly be fundraising because there’s only so much park and rec can do
If the dog park is to be constructed one day
additional purchases will only be needed for maintenance tools for the park
They also plan to feature a dog poop converter that uses the waste and converts it to energy to light the park
“It will generate light and make clean up a lot easier
For more information on how to get involved, email easthamptondogpark@gmail.com
EASTHAMPTON — The city strengthened its commitment to being a welcoming community for all at Wednesday’s City Council meeting by reaffirming its Welcoming City Trust Ordinance — a move that drew mixed reactions from residents in the audience
first approved in the summer of 2019 during President Donald Trump’s first term
puts in place citywide codes of conduct that ensure no part of city government can be “federalized,” according to a memorandum from Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle
The memo was read at the meeting by Council Vice President James Kwiecinski
who took on the roles of acting council president and acting mayor in the absence of Council President Salem Derby and LaChapelle
“Our City’s leadership continues to monitor state and federal developments,” the memorandum reads
“We are working closely with state agencies including the Governor’s and Attorney General’s offices and the Department of Secondary and Elementary Education to ensure our actions and policies reflect our legal obligations and core values.”
The ordinance outlines that public officials may not inquire about a person’s immigration status except as required by law
detain a person on the basis of an ICE detainer or ICE administrative warrant
provide ICE with certain personal information about people in department custody such as their home address
or perform the functions of an immigration official
This reaffirmation was met with mixed reactions from the public
as some saw this as a way to send a public message of safety to some of their Easthampton neighbors
Former City Councilor Peg Coniff spoke in favor of the reaffirmation
saying “we have been led to believe that undocumented immigrants are the scourge of this country
The reality is that most are here and have been here working for years … Those who live in Easthampton are your neighbors
and your children and their children play together daily
This ordinance ensures that Easthampton resources will not be used to do the work of the federal government in the absence of a criminal warrant.”
Kiam Jamrog-McQuaid and Carolyn Cushing lauded the reaffirmation of the ordinance as a way to combat some of the fears running through the community and allow friends and neighbors to feel welcome
our community members,” said Jamrog-McQuaid
Steve Nietupski expressed worry about “violent criminals” and “gang members” being welcomed into the community
Darlene Orvieto and Cathy Wauczinski both said that they feared the ordinance would put the city at risk for losing federal funding
“Illegal aliens should not be staying in our communities
and they should be heading back to their own communities,” said Wauczinski
After Kwiecinski read the mayor’s memorandum reaffirming the ordinance
he encouraged listeners to ponder the matters raised within it
EASTHAMPTON — The city is about to take another step toward making a new senior center a reality with the formation of an appointed Senior Center Building Committee
The Ad Hoc Senior Center Building Committee — formed in November 2023 — completed its yearlong efforts of visioning
community outreach and research in January
which is expected to be published to the public in the coming weeks
The report outlines recommendations for a new senior center
input on the successes and challenges of senior centers in surrounding communities
and five potential sites for a new senior center
Its filing and imminent publication mean that the city can embark on the next phase of planning: the creation of an official appointed building committee which will put out a request for proposals for contractors to conduct feasibility studies on the potential sites for the new center
According to Easthampton Council on Aging Director Cynthia Tarail
Mayor Nicole LaChapelle’s office will put out a notice for applications by the end of the month for people who want to be a part of the building committee
The application will be available on the city website
there have been discussions in various city governance groups about the deficiencies of the current Easthampton senior center,” the report reads
“The center has a history of being placed in various locations without much planning about the space’s suitability for residents 55 and older.”
But the ad hoc committee has taken its opportunity to make recommendations based on community feedback and research surrounding programming
accessibility and more improvements that can be implemented with a new senior center
Tarail explained that the ad hoc committee aimed its focus toward community focus groups
learning from other senior centers and pervious feasibility studies
and coming up with recommendations for the future center
This process included research conducted by the Gerontology Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston
which involved interviews with comparable communities throughout the state and focus groups in Easthampton to learn about the needs of older residents
The committee has already done much of the work that would go into a request for proposals process
so the building committee “would be able to hit the ground running.”
The 55-plus demographic is a growing one in Easthampton
According to data from the UMass Donahue Institute
included in a 2018 UMass Boston Gerontology Institute study of Easthampton’s older populations
roughly one-third of Easthampton residents are expected to be age 60 and older
seniors are expected to represent 36-39% of the population.”
But as outlined in the ad hoc committee’s report
a 2022 feasibility study of the city’s current senior center at 19 Union St
found it rife with deficiencies that limit its ability to serve those populations
and likely can’t be fully addressed even by costly renovations
Tarail said parking is an issue at the current senior center that the city hopes to address with the new center by selecting a site that can accommodate 150 to 200 parking spaces
“We currently have eight parking spaces in a municipal lot that is accessible to all,” she explained
the Easthampton Council on Aging voted to spend money on the current building only to maintain current functions
and recommended that the city invest in planning for a new center
The ad hoc committee has already narrowed down the search for potential locations for the new senior center to these spots: city-owned parcels at Highland Avenue
and a privately-owned property at 392 Main St
each property has an outlined list of pros and cons
including proximity to transportation and housing
both in regards to transportation and for those with various impairments and disabilities
were a major topic of conversation surrounding the senior center on the ad hoc committee
Other recommendations included in the committee’s report include public outreach to ensure community members understand the need for the new center and to attract more people to the center
as well as planning for “ample staffing levels and appropriate positions to adequately serve residents.”
The committee recommends that a new center include spaces for small independent activities like crafts
capacity for virtual participation and more
Owen Zaret is quoted by JewsInSchool citing public humiliation as his reason for resigning from the City Council
EASTHAMPTON — Amid a request for censure by the School Committee alleging “inappropriate” behavior
at-large Councilor Owen Zaret announced his resignation from the City Council on Tuesday morning
“I have served Easthampton for 4 terms as a City Councilor,” Zaret said in an emailed statement to the Gazette
and now I will consider other ways to contribute to our community.”
Zaret’s resignation follows a January City Council meeting at which the Easthampton School Committee read into the record a request for the City Council to censure Zaret
alleging that his efforts to get the committee to do more to combat antisemitism in the schools had “escalated to incidents of clearly unprofessional and unacceptable conduct.”
Zaret had countered that his requests for a dialogue with the committee regarding antisemitism in Easthampton schools had gone unanswered
and that the censure request deflects from that core issue
School Committee members dispute that contention
a formal way of disapproving of an official’s conduct
would not impact Zaret’s ability to participate in council proceedings
Zaret did not say whether he intends to pursue other offices or positions in Easthampton
When asked about his reasons for stepping down and his plans for the future
he simply said he hopes to take time to reflect and assess
“This is an opportunity for me to reflect on how I can best utilize my skills to serve causes that are important to me,” he wrote
“I will take some time to decide my next step
and how to best use my personal and professional time in the future.”
in a later Instagram post with the organization JewsInSchool
“I was publicly humiliated by the School Committee for shining a light on antisemitism
I had to resign because I wasn’t going to participate in a modern day inquisition with a committee that was engaging in antisemitism instead of fighting it.”
Zaret did not immediately respond to a request for comment about this statement
“We are deeply saddened by the allegation that the School Committee is engaging in antisemitism,” said School Committee Chair Laura Scott
who said that the intent of the censure was to document Zaret’s “unprofessional” patterns of conduct and “correct the record” of allegations he was making publicly
including statements made to local press that the School Committee was “ignoring” his concerns about antisemitism in the schools
“We have been actively addressing his concerns … as we always have,” said Scott
explaining that the district has “multiple policies in place” to address antisemitism and frequently works with outside contractors
“many of whom are members of the Jewish community themselves.”
In response to Zaret’s allegations of public humiliation and antisemitism
Scott said that the censure process is “meant to be held publicly,” and that accusations of antisemitism against the committee about antisemitism are “provably false.”
This censure request marks the second time Zaret has been criticized by other elected officials for matters of conduct
Lindsey Rothschild and Peg Conniff — alleged harassment and bullying by Zaret
After heated statements from members of the public
with some stating that the censure was meant to address Zaret’s pattern of “bullying” behavior
and others calling the censure discriminatory
the request for censure was ultimately sent on to the Council’s Rules and Governmental Relations Committee for further consideration
“Both the world and this city are in a much different place than in the beginning of this term,” Zaret said in a Facebook post announcing his resignation
“Now is the time for me to seek joy for myself and my family and to look for places where my efforts and love for the city and the world can be most productive.”
Zaret has been known for his presence in the community
Zaret has led the River Roads Cleanup in Millside Park
which follows the River Roads Festival each year
bringing together volunteers and performers from the festival — such as Dar Williams — to clean up hundreds of pounds of plastic containers
cigarette butts and more that would otherwise be washed into the river
Zaret has also advocated for his fellow Jewish community members
which he noted on Facebook is something he hopes to continue doing outside of the council
Zaret sponsored a council resolution condemning antisemitism in Easthampton
which passed unanimously and rallied support from community members at a November meeting
Zaret was one of the councilors to spearhead an ordinance aimed at protecting the privacy of those seeking reproductive or gender-affirming care in Easthampton
The ordinance had previously been aimed at preventing deceptive advertising by crisis pregnancy centers offering limited resources
but was withdrawn by Zaret to be reworked after multiple public hearings and opposition from Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle
The final ordinance was ultimately passed by the council but vetoed by LaChapelle due to concerns that it would not strengthen protections beyond existing law but would face costly legal challenges
Zaret said he sees promise in standing with the Jewish community outside of his councilor role
as well as “other communities facing extreme prejudice during this time in history.”
“I respect Councilor Zaret’s reflection on where he can best serve,” said LaChapelle
City Clerk Barbara LaBombard confirmed that Zaret’s resignation request has been officially filed with the city
It is now listed on Wednesday night’s City Council meeting agenda
director of the Easthampton Public Library
talks about what has been completed in phase one of the Easthampton Library annex project
how she sees using this space and where she would like to see the project go in the future
that is being transformed into an annex for the Easthampton Public Library
Easthampton Public Library’s new annex space
is gearing up to open after the completion of the first phase of renovations
a fundraising consultant and project manager for the annex building
bankESB donated this Main Street building
EASTHAMPTON — The Easthampton Public Library’s new annex space
cleaning and transforming the former Bank of America building
Library Director Katya Schapiro said the month of March will be dedicated to learning how to use the space
the annex will host an array of community events — from library board meetings to quilting groups and a community potluck — in the new 52 Main St
but it won’t yet be open to the public for regular business hours
and Schapiro and her colleagues still have their sights set on the next stages of renovations
fundraising consultant for the library and project manager for the annex build
said that having the new building donated was the “lightning strike” that opened up new possibilities for the library
Now that library staff members are actually able to see the building starting to come together
McCullagh and Schapiro said that ideas have been flowing readily
“There’s a big difference between knowing something is going to happen and actually getting your hands on it,” Schapiro enthused
Renovations to the annex kicked off in October with a public groundbreaking ceremony
This initial round of work primarily involved big fixes
cleaning up and climate controlling the rooms
of Northampton has been the general contractor for the ongoing renovations
The focus of the first round of refurbishments was the main room of the annex
which is where upcoming community events will be held
While this room no longer prominently features its teller station
and has been outfitted with modern carpeting
a large projector screen and recessed lighting
Schapiro said that this feature will be removed eventually
there is also a small office space for staff and bathrooms that are renovated and usable
the overall budget for the first round of renovations was approximately $600,000
In addition to the building donation bankESB loaned the library funds to complete the project
The majority of the library’s fundraising to date has been to support its operations
but there are plans to launch a more significant capital campaign moving forward
In addition to the support of bankESB and other contractors
Greenfield Savings Bank has pledged to be a multiyear supporter of the capital campaign
McCullagh said plans and costs are still being solidified for the next phase of renovations
which will involve renovations to the remainder of the building and the addition of accessibility features that will make the space somewhere the library can transition fully into in the coming years from its currently location at 9 Park St
a major goal is the addition of an elevator
so that all guests can access the building’s basement floor
“Being able to have fully accessible events will be a big deal,” said Schapiro
McCullagh explained that the new building is only slightly larger in square footage than the library’s current building
but it allows for the freedom to arrange the space in ways that will enable the library to accommodate more community groups and needs than before
“I’m just blown away by the services that the library provides,” said McCullagh
But he explained that capacity issues often force Schapiro to turn away some groups that want to hold events at the library
“Now we can meet that additional need,” he said
the library has been a partner in the city’s digital equity programming
the library will now be able to host some of the GoDigital classes as well
Another benefit of the added space is the additional storage
but for the library’s extensive archives and museum collection
which currently aren’t easily accessible to the public
In one of the back rooms in the new building
Schapiro envisions shelves filled with the library’s archival materials with a table in the middle
where an archivist or historian can answer community questions
there will be staff workspace in the annex
which Schapiro said “we have absolutely none of” in the current library building
the former bank building has its limitations
the building has a 50-person occupancy cap
but there are dreams of further expansion in the future that could raise that number
Schapiro and McCullagh explained that a potential phase three of renovations looms in the future
once the library has been fully moved into the new space
This phase will mean adding on an expansion to the existing building
creating more space for more library services or gatherings to take place
but the planning is exciting,” said Schapiro
Library staff members are continuing to envision possibilities for the new space as renovations move into their next stages
Schapiro said there is no mechanism through which people can book the space
but if anyone in the community has an idea they might like to use the annex for “we want to hear about it,” she said
There are no plans yet for what the current library building will be used for once the library moves out
Examples of some of the crystals Kurt Heidinger
the director of Biocitizen School of Field Environmental Philosophy
found with his students five or so years ago before some of the trails in the Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest off Loudville Road in Easthampton closed
“I stopped taking the kids there because it started to feel unsafe
It felt like people were there to make money
to find treasures and then sell it,” said Heidinger
talks about the crystals he dug up with his students five or so years ago before some of the trails in Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest off Loudville Road in Easthampton closed
found with his students five or so years ago before some of the trails in the Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest trail off Loudville Road in Easthampton closed
found with his students five or so years ago before some of the trails in the Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest trail off Loudville Road in Easthampton closed
A Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest trail off Loudville Road in Easthampton that is now closed
A Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest trail off Loudville Road in Easthampton is now closed
found with his students five or so years ago before some of the trails in Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest off Loudville Road in Easthampton closed
talks about the crystals he dug up with his students five or so years ago before some of trails in the Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest trail off Loudville Road in Easthampton closed
EASTHAMPTON — With its plentiful trails and babbling streams
the New England Forestry Foundation’s Hartnett Manhan Memorial Forest has long been a popular spot for outdoor recreation
people used to frequenting the area have noticed a startling change: Some of the trails south of Loudville Road that once used to welcome them are now plastered with signs that read “No trespassing.”
the closures came as a disappointing shock
But concerns about the health of the land and its historic lead mines had been growing as “rock hounds” from far and wide have continued to flock to the area to take advantage of its unique geological features — often leaving behind deep trenches in the earth that have increased potential threats from erosion
This has led to a mix of emotions from area residents who have come to love the trails there
and hope to see them restored to their full vitality without permanently losing access
“The lead mines have always been a gold mine for mineral people,” city resident George Boucher said at a Conservation Commission meeting on the topic Monday night
city residents Gershon Rosen and Melissa Bengtson submitted a written statement expressing that they were “deeply saddened” to lose access to the trails on Loudville Road because of the deep holes dug by mineral enthusiasts searching for collectibles
“I understand the need to restore the riverbank after years of mining
but I implore you to include in your plans the restoration of community access to these beloved trails
This forest is more than just land; it is a sanctuary,” the statement reads
“It is where I sought peace after losing my grandmother
where I found comfort in the flowing water’s gentle sounds
this place is not about extracting gems but about connecting with nature and our community
The lead mines in the area carry deep historical significance for the towns surrounding them
and have been a draw for history enthusiasts — not just mineral searchers — from near and far
Lead was first discovered in the area in the 1670s
and mining operations continued on and off
Ethan Allen and his partners maintained control of the mines
it played a very important part of the history of the town,” said Bill Tracy
a longtime Westhampton resident and local history buff
“Apparently it has been a very popular place for rock hounds to look through the tailings and find interesting specimens.”
its draw for mineral fanatics is nothing new
“lead doesn’t really exist in nature as we know it.” Instead
what was being mined all those years ago was a substance called galena
which typically looks like gray or black cubes
yielding other interesting minerals such as wulfenite and green pyromorphite
Perrea said quartzites and fluorites also have been found there
“There’s quite a few collectible minerals in the area,” he said
Perrea would often frequent the forest to look for rare minerals
he has been studying the history of the mines and the land
and has even offered a series of talks and historical tours over the years to those interested in learning more
People were interested in the history and the geology of the land
“Because it’s such a really neat history about the discovery of the lead mines
there’s a lot of local folklore around it,” he said
“The first mining operations took place while we were still under crown rule.”
with trails open to passive recreation by the New England Forestry Foundation — but the area has also attracted people who have disregarded the guidelines laid out by local mineral groups and NEFF
Perrea recalled some mineral seekers digging deep holes on trails and attempting to hide them with cardboard or leaves
Some would cut across residential properties to avoid the long walks to the sites
“Unfortunately it’s the folks who are violating the digging rules who are ruining it for the rest of us who like to visit and dig and appreciate the history that’s there,” said Perrea
the New England Forestry Foundation reopens the closed areas with “designated areas to dig,” so that mineral enthusiasts can enjoy what the land has to offer while respecting the ecological balance
the New England Forestry Foundation was given the go-ahead by the Conservation Commission to do basic restoration work on the disturbed areas
Plans for this work involve “plugging” sycamore tree seedlings and spreading custom seed mixes to stabilize the soil in disturbed areas near the Manhan River
stewardship manager at the New England Forestry Foundation
said the foundation currently plans to maintain these areas as closed
“Keeping people off is really the best thing we can do,” she said
Gula noted that it was reported that there has been no further evidence of trespassing or unauthorized use of the property
The foundation is working with local law enforcement and a local towing company to enforce the no trespassing order
only about 15 acres of the forest are closed to the public
and that the remainder of the property is still available to be enjoyed
EASTHAMPTON — The School Committee’s request to censure at-large Councilor Owen Zaret drew dozens of community members
to voice their support and concerns at what turned into a tense City Council meeting Wednesday night
Some called the request a discriminatory act against someone looking into antisemitism in the schools
while others said the censure is meant to address Zaret’s patterns of “bullying.”
The School Committee sent the request for censure to the council on Sunday
alleging that Zaret’s behavior in recent months has “escalated to incidents of clearly unprofessional and unacceptable conduct.”
Zaret counters that his requests for a dialogue with the committee regarding antisemitism in Easthampton schools have gone unanswered
Community member Jen Sandler said she does not believe that Zaret is acting out of ill will
he met many times with the School Committee
and then he lied about it … trying to get that power to unilaterally determine the appropriate response is bullying.”
those in support of Zaret believe he was taking appropriate action to address antisemitism in the schools
“Councilor Zaret has done nothing but do his due diligence based on his obligation to advocate for the needs of all children,” said community member Amy Mager
citing rising antisemitism nationally and locally
I feel a very specific urgency on the issue.”
The censure request was signed by all six elected School Committee members
LaChapelle was not at Wednesday night’s meeting
but shared a statement with the Gazette the following afternoon saying “the School Committee’s request seems to be more about the actions of a City Councilor reaching outside their official duties
This is something for the School Committee and City Council to address
but it’s concerning to see an elected official’s pattern of behavior take attention away from important work that the school district is doing as targeted hate actions
specifically anti-semitism in this example
a Jewish community member and the parent of an Easthampton Public Schools student
previously expressed to the Gazette that he had been frustrated with efforts to “initiate a dialogue” with the School Committee amid rising antisemitism nationally and in the school system
feeling that his input was being ignored and that the committee was failing to take action
The censure request includes a communication timeline dating back to October 2023 showing the School Committee’s responses seeking to schedule meetings with Zaret or thanking him for his correspondence
four of which went unanswered by the committee or other school officials
The request also outlines the policies in place in Easthampton Public Schools regarding discrimination and bias
which Scott had previously said were part of a peer-reviewed and research-based curriculum
Several community members spoke in support of Zaret
saying the censure request was discriminatory or a sign that inquiries into antisemitism in the community were being silenced
as someone whose children went through Easthampton Public Schools
she never felt Easthampton took antisemitism seriously
and that Zaret has been a “sole voice” who has understood what it is like to be Jewish in the community
Mike Offner of Amherst said that he was “absolutely flabbergasted” by the letter
which he called “legally foolish” and “blatantly” discriminatory
stating that he believed the censure could land the district in hot water legally
Commenter Andrew Sirulnik asked the council to consider censuring the School Committee instead
“Instead of dealing with the real concerns about antisemitism affecting our kids
the School Committee is attacking the person who raised the concerns
and it’s trying to silence legitimate advocacy about discrimination,” Sirulnik said
particularly those who had worked with Zaret before
said that the censure is not about antisemitism
but about Zaret’s documented pattern of disturbing behavior
This is not the first time that Zaret has been criticized by other elected officials for his conduct
asserting that he was not respectful of communication boundaries
Conniff and Rothschild were in attendance at Wednesday’s meeting
and shared their experiences with the council
“What they are drawing attention to is the behavior of an elected official in corresponding with another group in the city,” said Conniff
When I was on the council in 2020 and 2021
and at any point if I questioned or asked for clarification on something from Councilor Zaret
Rothschild said that some members of the public might be surprised by what they are hearing about Zaret because they have not been involved in Easthampton civic life
“I’ve been subject to antisemitism,” she said
“I’ve also been subject to the harassment and bullying by Owen Zaret
and I’ve witnessed him doing it to other women on the council
other women in civic positions in the city
… He tried to silence me; he contacted the FBI to silence me.”
Scott read the censure request letter into the record
and other School Committee members shared their thoughts
Committee member Sam Hunter said meetings with Zaret “have not gone anywhere,” and that although Zaret will leave meetings saying he is satisfied
he typically reaches out days later saying he is not satisfied
“Advocacy is incredibly important … this is not about the content of the matter,” said committee member Megan Harvey
the committee is “compelled to correct falsehoods” that have been spread about the committee’s response to concerns raised about antisemitism
During the councilor communications period of the meeting
Zaret spoke in recognition of Holocaust Awareness Day on Jan
speaking to its importance amid rising antisemitism nationally
“I’ve sent a number of communications on the topic meant to underscore my sense of an extreme concern and urgency on this issue
I believe that we have shared concerns for our students in our community … so today I’m offering an open invitation to collaborate,” Zaret said regarding the School Committee and school administration
“Can we pledge to focus now on antisemitism in our community
Can we create an outline to work constructively towards a shared goal?”
Councilor Koni Denham responded that she was “incredibly heartbroken” by what she had heard
and shared some of her own experiences working with Zaret
saying that “this is not a one-off situation.”
Zaret sent an email to the police accusing her of being “belligerent” and insinuating that she might cause him harm because she had asked him in an email documenting his “ongoing aggressive behavior” to stop it
“I do believe that there are Jewish people in this community as there are other people of color
as there are members of the LGBT+ community
that doesn’t excuse a person who’s a part of those communities to abuse other people and to bully them
The censure request was sent to the council’s Rules and Governmental Relations Committee for further consideration
Zaret posted on Facebook Thursday morning that
listening to the censure request being read into the record
he heard “a distinctly different story and series of events than I experienced over the past year,” and maintained that incidents of antisemitism are going ignored
Drew Romeo pours ink onto a screen at Printed Mass
which recently opened at Eastworks in Easthampton
Drew Romeo checks the ink on a sweatshirt at Printed Mass
a new printmaking business at Eastworks in Easthampton
the business aims to host workshops to give community members a chance to learn about the practice
EASTHAMPTON — On a sunny Tuesday afternoon
Drew Romeo was hard at work printing batches of custom shirts for his neighbors in the Eastworks building
Noah Halpern-McManus from Easthampton Skate Club
smiled with excitement as he opened a box of bright pink T-shirts for his business
a logo for Eastworks’ 50 Arrow Gallery could be seen as Romeo stepped away from his work for a few precious moments
a new addition to the Eastworks community at 116 Pleasant St.
Romeo has carved out a cozy corner of the former mill building for what he hopes will be a community printmaking hub
Printed Mass has been churning out small batches of prints for clients in Eastworks and beyond
Now that the business has settled into a comfortable rhythm
Romeo has quit his graphic design job and is ready to establish the shop as more than a retail spot
These serve as an opportunity for community members to learn about printmaking and take home a piece of custom apparel they make themselves
they’re also a chance to bring the art form he loves to more people
Romeo describes the way he found screen printing as “completely random.” When looking for work in college
he wound up making some extra cash as a print shop employee
The art form combined his passion for graphic design with the chance to create exciting products
“If I had known about screen printing earlier
I would have latched onto it earlier,” he said
His goal now is to expose others to screen printing and give them the space to try a new creative outlet
“I’d like to kind of help facilitate the education and knowledge about it,” he said
He envisions students submitting their own designs for printing workshops
and hosting community events honoring the art of printmaking
the first Saturday in May is “Print Day.” Romeo plans to help the community recognize this global printmaking holiday in style
Romeo will merge forces with other print artists to host a print festival in the gallery space across the hall from his business
“It will be like a celebration of printmaking,” he said
In addition to workshops for printing on clothing
Romeo plans to offer additional classes on flat stock printing
These classes will teach students to print posters and other flat pieces
Romeo is the head print maker for Printed Mass
but the influence of his family members touches every corner of the shop
merchandise and decor is the handiwork of Romeo’s wife
Romeo said that many of the print designs in the store can also be credited to Gomes’ creative mind
“She just tells me what to make and I do it,” he said with a smile
Every shirt in the store is the creative product of Gomes and Romeo’s work
They are printed under the brand name “Nora’s Closet,” named after their daughter who always requests her own copy of new designs
“She probably has one of every single one of these designs in her closet,” Romeo said
It isn’t just Romeo’s family that has touched the shop in meaningful ways
The walls of the store are adorned with local art
Proceeds from the sale of these pieces go straight to the artists
many of whom are located right inside the Eastworks building
Community has been an important aspect of starting the business
From the moment he and Gomes started moving into Eastworks
other artists and small business owners made sure to stop by to offer a quick “hello.” By showcasing the work of local creatives and giving people the chance to make print art of their own
Romeo hopes to inspire creativity in anyone who steps inside the store
Those interested in giving screen printing a try can visit printedmass.com for information about upcoming workshops
EASTHAMPTON — After a “rigorous” search process
the Easthampton School Committee has selected longtime Springfield Public School District educator Michelle Balch as the district’s new superintendent
The committee voted unanimously to offer the position to Balch Tuesday night with the full support of the Superintendent Search Committee
“I think this is like a once-in-a-lifetime moment,” Balch told the Gazette on Wednesday
“What a privilege to serve the Easthampton community.”
Easthampton received 10 applications for the superintendent job
both of whom also impressed the School Committee with their professionalism
Balch will replace interim Superintendent Maureen Binienda
whose contract will expire at the end of the school year
“It’s not something that they didn’t have,” School Committee member Eric Guyette said in reference to the other finalists
During Balch’s public interview last week
School Committee members were taken with her ability to learn the strengths and weaknesses of the district intimately in a short period of time
individualized approach to student success
committee members recalled Balch’s opening statement at the interview
in which she related being an average student who didn’t feel seen until she was recognized by an educator she admired
and was encouraged to join the Model United Nations club at her school
and that making students feel seen in that way so they can unlock their full potential has become her “why” as an educational leader
authentic person,” said committee member Linda Markee
Committee members also lauded Balch’s clear preparation for the role
as she presented them with a 30-60-90-day entry plan when she introduced herself — all wrapped up in a maroon folder
“There was a feeling that this is a person who is brilliant … this was a person who seemed truly dedicated to deep connection,” said committee member Ben Hersey
But it wasn’t just her story or her preparation that sold Easthampton officials on Balch’s fit for the district
Balch’s colleagues continued to speak very highly of her — and former colleagues who no longer work with her in the Springfield schools made the trip to Easthampton
Balch has spent her entire career working in the Springfield Public School District
working her way up to prominent leadership positions over almost 20 years
She began her career in Springfield as a special education teacher in 2005
and has since served as a senior administrator
she serves as the district’s chief instructional officer
Scott said the only question about Balch that continued to nag at her mind was “why Easthampton?”
When asked this question during her interview though
Balch’s answer more than satisfied the committee’s curiosity
She said that working in a district as large as Springfield leaves less opportunity for close
individual connections or truly seeing the fruits of her labors
She believes that her individualized approach to education would serve a smaller
close-knit community like Easthampton well
and allow her to get to know each and every student
“I think the universe has owed Easthampton a favor for a minute,” said Scott
the position was offered to Erica Faginski-Stark
who withdrew her candidacy after city students voiced concern over alleged “transphobic rhetoric” she had posted online
Committee members were excited by the initiatives that Balch mentioned implementing in Springfield
and potentially bringing to Easthampton — such as the “Portrait of a Graduate” program
which emphasizes community engagement in building a vision for the district’s future
and “Student Summits” where students speak their minds and administrators are simply there to listen
Search committee member and Easthampton High School sophomore Walter Baker also noted Balch’s mention of a “primary person model,” through which each student is guaranteed to have an adult at school who they can approach with any challenges they may be facing
“We have unanimous input from community members
that this person is a good fit for our district,” said committee member Megan Harvey
Balch said that the search process was “inspiring” from start to finish
and that she has been encouraged by Easthampton’s commitment to finding the right superintendent
Balch said she plans to get to know the community more deeply
soliciting community input and “getting as many voices to the table as possible” to determine district priorities moving forward
the art teacher at Mountain View School in Easthampton
talks about working with Marcia LaRocque Levy as part of a Massachusetts Cultural Council grant to teach 375 students how to make clay creations
A Mountain View School student works on a clay tile as part of the five-week artist-in-residency program with Marcia LaRocque Levy
Marcia LaRocque Levy works with Justin Abrahamson and other students at Mountain View School making clay tiles as part of a Massachusetts Cultural Council grant to teach 375 students over a five-week period
Artist Marcia LaRocque Levy works with Justin Abrahamson and other students at Mountain View School
making clay tiles as part of a Massachusetts Cultural Council grant to teach 375 students over a five-week period
EASTHAMPTON — In the art classroom of Mountain View School
students are getting their hands dirty and learning from a pro
students got to work on Tuesday morning rolling out slabs of clay and brainstorming their designs
Each eighth grader focused on getting their clay to the perfect level of thickness to make ceramic tiles with 3-D relief images
While learning a new skill can be challenging
students in the class said getting the chance to mold clay with their hands is a welcome relief from their academic schedule
“It’s very hands-on,” Gabriella Pastomerlo said as she prepped a slab of clay to cut a cowgirl boot shape out of
Lucy Graham and Olivia Gregg worked at smoothing their tiles into clean squares
Both said they’ve enjoyed having access to pottery supplies and getting to take some time to create
Sam Coffelt rolled some rough fabric over his clay slab to give it texture
His planned theme for the tile was “Halloween.”
Thanks to a $5,000 Creative Projects for Schools grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council
clay artist Marcia LaRocque Levy has been spending the last five weeks teaching more than 375 Mountain View middle school students how to craft ceramic creations
After 15 years of hosting an after-school art program for third through fifth graders
the artist was excited to work some clay into the school day
Her visit was also made possible by an additional $2,000 scholarship from the Mountain View PTO
LaRocque Levy had been producing ceramic pieces for customers for 35 years before she shifted toward educating students on clay art in 2010
As a member of the Cottage Street Studios community since 1986
she’s become deeply ingrained in the Easthampton community
and that’s what comes with working with kids,” she said
the middle school art teacher at Mountain View
said she’s been glad to learn from LaRocque Levy about using the new school building’s resources
such as the electric kiln and two throwing wheels
“Having the brand new building and having access to a kiln — I’ve never had that,” said Fischer
LaRocque Levy explained that she gets to instruct students for one hour a day for five days straight
then a different group of kids rotates into the class
she’s been working at striking a balance between teaching some basic ceramics skills and letting the students explore their creativity
“A lot of the kids are saying they want to explore
they like to be able to explore,” LaRocque Levy said
she’s given the students an “exploratory day,” where they get to make anything they want with some expert guidance
As her fifth week instructing at the school comes to an end
she’s noticed that many kids aren’t used to getting their hands dirty in this way — but most of them have loved every second of it
That’s why it’s in therapists’ offices,” said LaRocque Levy
Part of LaRocque Levy’s passion for bringing clay art into students’ lives is that it pulls them away from the screens and devices that can dominate their everyday lives
she described ceramics as “the antithesis to devices” since it is one of the oldest art forms in human culture
“I get to teach them to create without technology,” she said
LaRocque Levy said she had a clear mission of providing a new creative outlet for her students
because they’re using this creative resource that’s waiting to be expressed,” she said
This is LaRocque Levy’s final week teaching in the Mountain View classroom
but she plans to keep holding workshops for kids in the community
and continue to look for ways to share her craft
The students she’s taught during her time there won’t just leave with handmade tiles and pinch pots
but also with new skills to make their creative visions a reality
EASTHAMTON — The city has suspended its zoning enforcement on short-term rentals for review
hoping to clear up some confusion surrounding the regulation of these rentals in the community
The voluntary suspension applies to private properties used as short-term rentals
including those previously issued a cease-and-desist order by the zoning enforcement officer
The pause will remain in place as the City Council
Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals decide whether new zoning or general ordinances should be passed to regulate short-term rentals in the city
The city has announced that a reasonable period of time will be granted for people to seek permits under any new ordinance
Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle explained that the suspension of enforcement is occurring in response to questions and concerns from residents
as short-term rentals have not been provided for under Massachusetts General Law
This created confusion when the city adopted an opt-in tax on short-term rentals like AirBNB stays in 2019
and some argued that it did not make sense to be taxed on these rentals when there was no official provision allowing them in the first place
LaChapelle explained that even without the provision “people who are doing short-term rentals only pay the tax if they are renting it out through an app.”
That tax generates roughly $15,000 to $17,000 per year in Easthampton
LaChapelle noted that when the city adopted the opt-in tax
it was assumed that no additional language was needed in city ordinances regulating short-term rentals because they were similar enough to the bed and breakfasts that fell under the language of the tax
But concerns raised by residents since the adoption of the tax have revealed that there is room for more clarification
city officials are working on creating language for an ordinance officially allowing and regulating short-term rentals within the city
we want to provide options,” LaChapelle said
adding that such options should be made available both to visitors and property owners
The city announced that the zoning suspension is not a waiver of the city’s rights nor an acknowledgment that any current use is legal under the city’s zoning ordinance
LaChapelle also said that the city will continue to regulate “anything related to health and safety” or “general welfare” in these rental units
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— Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle said there are no plans in the future to bring back the American flag seen for years on Nashawannuck Pond
The flag which was raised by volunteers has hung in the middle of the pond from Memorial Day until Veterans Day since 9/11 to honor those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks
the cable that hung the flag came down as well for the first time
"Because it's out of code as well as it's attached to property that is private as well as property that is under the city's control," said LaChapelle
"And I think it's not the message we want to send."
the American flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flag staffs in the open
the flag can be displayed 24 hours a day with lighting that can be seen at night
We spoke with some people who enjoy the pond and have concerns about how the take down was handled
"Just because it was out of violation
I feel it would've been better to have a discourse about it rather than just take down the flag," said UMass Amherst Student Christophe Goode
"Because there are people who enjoy seeing the flag even just on their drive past on the pond
there's that flag hanging over the pond.'"
Christope Goode who was at the pond Tuesday fishing says he thinks the timing of the new rule is off
"I feel like having the information on really the bigger picture of why this is actually happening now because I think that's the biggest issue," Goode said
"People aren't really wondering why it's happening because obviously yeah
LaChapelle said she had been contacted by residents and veterans among others who had voiced concerns about the flag not following proper flag code
She said removing the flag is not a political statement by her office but an effort she said to better honor those who represent it
"Where we're really respecting the flag
longstanding code around the flag," said LaChapelle
"I think it is gravely disrespectful for people to pick and choose at this point in history how the flag is displayed on their own account."
LaChapelle said there will be city meetings held next week where the public will have a chance to voice their concerns about the takedown of the flag
EASTHAMPTON — In its prominent downtown location
the Walgreens on Union Street is a popular destination for Easthampton residents looking to pick up needed medications or maybe a quick snack
signs hang in the store notifying customers that the store is slated for closure in late March
Store management explained that the closure is just one of many as the company carries out a three-year plan initiated in fall of 2024 including more than a thousand of such closures
we happen to be one of those locations,” said Store Manager Nicholas Newell
The company announced last October that it would close about 1,200 stores over three years as part of an effort to cut costs amid retail competition and shrinking payouts from prescriptions
The Union Street Walgreens is one of about 500 stores designated for closure in fiscal year 2025 as part of this plan for a turnaround
The final day of operation for the Union Street Walgreens will be March 25
the next closest Walgreens location will likely be in Southampton but that they can pick up their prescriptions “pretty much anywhere in the world that there’s a Walgreens.” Additionally
Newell noted that there are locations slightly further away in Holyoke and Northampton
all of which will have access to customers’ profiles through the Walgreens system
the store and its pharmacy will remain open for its normal business hours
convenience store items will not continue to be restocked as the store prepares to close
Newell said that as the closure date draws closer
items will begin to be marked down to encourage their sale as well
will continue to be ordered and replenished as needed
Newell said there are about 20 employees at the Union Street Walgreens but that they will all go on to work at other Walgreens locations
Walgreens corporate media relations did not respond immediately for comment
The Easthampton School Committee is asking for City Councilor Owen Zaret to be censured after miscommunication about antisemitic instances in the school district
Zaret said he believes there's a rise in antisemitism in the school district based on at least five incidents that have occurred
He said he doesn't think the school committee is being receptive to his concerns
That curiosity and that openness I don't think are occurring,” Zaret said
adding he attempted to organize a panel discussion during Jewish American Heritage Month and that was declined
"I feel there's been some responses saying essentially like 'we've got this,' but not like a welcoming sort of invitation to say
said some of the incidents involved a verbal exchange between two students and drawings by young school children of what could be perceived as "hateful" symbols
"It became clear that those children did not understand what they had written or drawn
and that was handled through an educational lens
we did notify the police just in case," Scott said
Scott said members have spoken to Zaret about his concerns
"I can't speak to the feelings of councilor's
but I can speak to the facts of the situation which are that he has had
text messages in my one year tenure as chair
Zarat does not believe those communications have been enough
saying he wants more than to be included in "an e-mail thread."
take these resources and let me know you got them
and I'd like to follow up with a meeting to discuss how these affect our community
how we work together as a city council and school committee
and how we can build a stronger community that rejects all forms of hate," he said
Scott said the School Committee is constantly working on anti-discrimination curriculum
“I certainly wouldn't say that our curriculum around anti bias
those are things we're constantly working on,” Scott said
“But it is also not any current lacking effort or interest by this committee
Scott said she and City Council President Salem Derby received an email from Councilor Zaret this week asking that they pause the request for censure and have a discussion about their differences before taking any action
Scott said she’s confused by Zaret’s request given their history
But we have seen a year-long pattern of behavior demonstrating the opposite,” Scott said
“As soon as we end that email or end that meeting
the counselor will then go out to a variety of public and private arenas and share that he is dissatisfied
or continue with a narrative that there are things happening in the schools that are not happening or they are happening on a scale that they are not happening at
or that the school department is not doing anything to address them
and that his request for an audience has been denied
The committee did not pause the censure instead reading the entire 4-page letter in front of the City Council Wednesday night
Scott read the letter and then three other committee members spoke in support of the censure
Both Markee and Hunter said they have had a good relationship with Zarat outside of the conflict between him and the committee
"This is an action that was extremely difficult to make because I have had a relationship with Councilor Zarat that I have valued," Markee said
"It's also an easy decision to make when you realize that there are clear situations and boundaries that have been stepped over
Zarat responded saying he is proudly Jewish and listed statistics about the rise of antisemitism in the nation and the state of Massachusetts, which has seen a 70% increase in 2022-2023
He once again offered an invitation to collaborate on a possible taskforce made up of city leaders and residents to address his concerns about antisemitism in the schools and the safety of students in general
"I believe that we have shared concerns for the students in our community — myself and the school committee and school administration," he said
City Councilor Koni Denham said she is "heartbroken" by the situation
"I do believe there are Jewish people in this community
as there are members of the LGBTQ+ community who hurt," she said
She went on to accuse Zarat of abusing and bullying people to get his point across
"I'm incredibly sad about the experience of people
there are members of the LGBTQ+ community," she said
going on to recount personal conflicts she has had with Zarat
"I feel the statements are speculative and rumor mongering and not maybe fully represented of the relationship."
Denham went on to say she did not run for city council to "pay attention to the emotional needs of other people on the council."
"I ran for this council to represent members of this community
so I could meet the needs of members of this community
"And the suggestion that we don't care about the needs of other people is just false
but we also don't have to be bullied constantly."
Zarat took issue with her use of the term bullying in reference to his behavior
"I think those are very strong [terms] and are making suggestions to the public that might be misleading," he said
The City Council voted to move the review of the censure to its rules and government relations sub committee
NEPM's Elizabeth Román contributed to this article
EASTHAMPTON— Easthampton’s plans for municipal electricity aggregation have been given the go-ahead by the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities
allowing the city to join more than 170 other municipalities across the state in providing residents more flexibility when it comes to choosing an electricity provider
seeks to offer more renewable energy options to homes
and municipal buildings at competitive and stable prices
through which “a municipality purchases electricity in bulk from a competitive supplier on behalf of the residents and businesses within the community,” according to the Massachusetts DPU website
Before submitting the city’s municipal aggregation plans for approval by the DPU
the city underwent a period of public commentary in June of last year
But Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle said that neither this period nor DPU feedback necessitated any major changes to drafts of the city’s plans
allowing them to move forward at a steady pace
“We’re excited to work with our partner Good Energy to get this rolled out,” said LaChapelle
referring to the consultants contracted for the project
Easthampton Community Electricity will be the new default electricity supply
“Easthampton Standard” will be the default option
“Easthampton Plus” will be a 100% renewable energy option
and “Easthampton Basic” will use the minimum amount of renewable energy required by the state
Eversource will continue to own and manage the city’s electricity delivery services
Consumers will also be free to opt out of the municipal aggregation program
not only will Easthampton Community Electricity offer consumers more choice when it comes to their electricity supply
but it will also help the city attain goals outlined in its Climate Action Plan
“You can opt into an energy plan … that is very green — local wind
“An important part of these municipal aggregation programs is you can choose a cleaner energy source from local supplies.”
because the city itself will be getting its electricity through the program
it will be able reduce its carbon footprint
According to Easthampton’s Energy Advisory Committee chair
the city and its consultants at Good Energy anticipate Eastampton Community Energy being up and running around June or July
“There’s still a little bit of fact-finding that has to go on right now,” said Paquette
information now has to be collected on all “customers” in the city and their energy consumption before the project can be put out to bid for potential suppliers
Paquette estimated that the project will likely go out to bid in March
beginning a process during which the city will seek out a supplier that will offer competitive pricing for the program’s three energy supply packages for what will likely be a two- to three-year contract
“We’d be looking to lock in a lower price than what people are already paying,” said Paquette
Paquette explained that savings aren’t necessarily guaranteed with a municipal aggregation program
but the city is encouraged by the experiences of other municipalities
where these programs have proved “cheaper for consumers in the long run.”
it will undertake a public outreach and education process before welcoming users into the new energy program
Hero Barbershop in Easthampton is owned by Norm White and Christopher Wolf
co-owner of Hero Barbershop in Easthampton with Christopher Wolf
gets ready to give longtime customer Boon Sheridan a shave after a haircut and beard trim Thursday morning
ABOVE: Norm White and Christopher Wolf co-own Hero Barbershop in Easthampton
having recently moved from a space in downtown Northampton
gives longtime customer Boon Sheridan a beard trim on a recent morning
The shop recently moved from its space in downtown Northampton to a larger spot on Northampton Street in Easthampton
talks to longtime customer Boon Sheridan about what kind of beard trim Sheridan wants while getting a haircut on a recent morning
while sweeping up after a giving a haircut to a customer
EASTHAMPTON — What started out as a men’s gifts and grooming shop in Northampton has become a bustling barbershop in Easthampton that prides itself on its inclusive practices and atmosphere
From its first days adding barber chairs to its much smaller former Northampton location
Hero Barber has accumulated a substantial base of loyal customers who have followed the business to Easthampton not just because they like how they look and feel when they leave
but because they like how they feel from the moment they walk inside
“You can come in here and be whoever you are
and that is not something that’s common in the barbering community,” said Christopher Wolf
who owns and runs the business with his partner
Hero strives constantly to foster a welcoming
where anyone can get the short trim or shave they’re looking for
And if the pins on each barber stating “you are safe with me” aren’t enough to make someone feel at home
Lucy will be sure to greet whoever shows up
there are barbershops where “if you’re female and you go in to get a fade haircut
they won’t cut your hair,” but he wanted to create something different at Hero
He and Wolf sought to carve out a space where everyone who walks through the door can be comfortable
While the shop had only the tools to do short cuts
the gender of who is getting that cut doesn’t matter at all
Since moving to its new 186 Northampton St
Hero has been able to expand its operations — going from a 700- square-foot space to a roughly 1,700-square-foot space with ample parking — but the shop’s online wait list is still routinely booked up with returning customers
and Wolf said the shop still has to turn people away sometimes
Boon Sheridan has been a regular customer at Hero since about 2017
shortly after the shop’s former Northampton location was remodeled to include a barbershop portion
But Sheridan said the new space is “fantastic,” and he’s been happy to follow the shop to its new location for the quality cuts they offer
“Norm is one of the few people I know who can do a beard really well,” said Sheridan
To accommodate more customers like Sheridan
with a fourth barber coming on soon and plans to hire a fifth
with Wolf handling most of the managerial and customer service aspects of the business
and White working as a barber himself — a passion he discovered out of necessity
When the pair opened the barbershop portion of their Northampton store
Wolf said there were some issues between the barbers and he and White as managers
which he said boiled down to one simple fact: “It was not barbers telling barbers what to do.”
So the pair decided they either needed to venture out of the barbering business
or one of them needed to go to school to become a barber
But Wolf said he believes in investing in oneself
and this seemed like a chance to do just that
Because White already had some expertise in the beauty industry
and quickly found himself learning to become a barber
White also met and got to know the three other barbers who currently work at Hero
“I kind of recognized the talent,” he said
with more space and more talent on the way
Hero hopes to accommodate even more customer traffic
and help more people in the community feel welcome
Wolf explained that he and White have a major “passion about the quality of the work and the customer experience,” and that moving to Easthampton has only allowed them to realize those passions to a greater extent thus far
Repair work continues on the utility pole in Hampton Bays on Tuesday
An East Hampton Town police officer was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated after Southampton Town police said he crashed into a utility pole early Tuesday morning in Hampton Bays
said: "Officer Morales has been immediately placed on administrative leave pending a full internal affairs investigation of the incident."
Southampton police said the crash occurred at 2:04 a.m
The incident resulted in some minor power outages in the area — though the PSEG Long Island outage map showed repairs had been made and power in the area was restored
Morales was "found to be intoxicated by alcohol" at the scene
and he was transported to a hospital for treatment of what was described only as "non-life-threatening injuries."
Arraignment information was not immediately available
It was not immediately clear if Morales is represented by counsel
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EASTHAMPTON — The School Committee is asking the City Council to censure at-large Councilor Owen Zaret
has “escalated to incidents of clearly unprofessional and unacceptable conduct.”
Zaret counters that his repeated requests to discuss with the committee their handling of antisemitism in Easthampton Public Schools have gone unanswered
and that the censure request deflects from the issue at hand
Six of the seven School Committee members agreed late last week to send a letter to the council requesting the action against Zaret
The letter states that the at-large councilor is dissatisfied with the committee’s responses pertaining to the antisemitism
describing “escalating complaints” from Zaret about the issue
Mayor Nicole LaChapelle did not sign the letter as a member of the committee
School Committee Chair Laura Scott told the Gazette that LaChapelle has opted to release her own statement on the matter in the coming days
The censure is not a request for Zaret to resign
nor would it impact his ability to participate in council proceedings
it is a formal way of disapproving of a member’s conduct
Scott will read the request for censure into the record at the council’s meeting on Wednesday
who is Jewish and the parent of an Easthampton School District student
wrote in an email to the Gazette that he has been trying to “initiate a dialogue” with the schools about rising antisemitism in the school system and in the country
noting that he felt that his input was being ignored and that the school district was failing to take action
“There have been missed opportunities to have conversations,” wrote Zaret
“If there are concerns about my behavior … why can’t we sit down together?”
The censure request includes a full communication timeline and thread of emails that is referenced in the letter
Several emails include suggestions from Zaret on how to build a curriculum around the prevention of antisemitism
Scott said that Easthampton already uses a “peer-reviewed
research-based” curriculum for such matters
The communication timeline shows the School Committee’s responses seeking to schedule meetings with Zaret or thanking him for his correspondence
The correspondence list dates back to October 2023
only four of which went unanswered by the committee or other school officials
in a statement shared with the Gazette and on Facebook
Zaret stated that “while a few conversations have taken place
by and large my submission of resources and numerous requests to meet have gone unanswered.”
“I don’t believe that acknowledgment of an email is a conversation,” Zaret told the Gazette
Scott told the Gazette that she and other committee members and school officials had been responding to and meeting with Zaret
She also stated that the school district already has policies surrounding bias
and that when these were shared with Zaret at initial meetings he appeared “satisfied” and “impressed.”
When an instance of hate-based graffiti occurred in December at Easthampton High School
Zaret and other school community members received an email
alerting them to the incident and notifying them on how they could reach school administrators for further information or assistance
it is stated that Zaret “immediately” requested and was granted a meeting to receive further information
he emailed the superintendent and School Committee requesting specifics of the incident “in violation of the process that had been clearly communicated to the school community” and despite being “already aware of the specifics.”
the letter says that Zaret responded in an email saying “it is essentially a test of good faith behavior between municipal partners.”
School Committee member Sam Hunter said that what has been of concern to the committee has been the “pattern of behavior” displayed by Zaret
“The amount of access he’s asking for is really inappropriate,” Hunter said
“we’ve completely pivoted away from what the actual issue is.”
This is the second time that Zaret has been criticized by other elected officials for matters of conduct
Lindsey Rothschild and Peg Conniff — alleged harassment and bullying against Zaret
and asserted that Zaret was not respectful of communication boundaries
The request for censure will likely be referred to committee following its introduction at Wednesday night’s meeting
it will be brought back to the full council at a future date for a vote
Homar Gomez is ready to get to work as the new state representative for the 2nd Hampshire District
Gomez will vacate his current position as the Easthampton City Council president on Jan
“I know I can make a difference,” he said of his new job
EASTHAMPTON — Easthampton City Council President Homar Gomez is ready to make the leap to Beacon Hill after concluding his uncontested bid to represent the 2nd Hampshire District in the State House
Once he is sworn into office in the new year
Gomez plans to make himself readily available to the district’s constituents
bringing the leadership style and advocacy he found success with in Easthampton to a larger scale
who was elected on Tuesday as Hampshire County’s clerk of courts
as the state representative for the district
He hopes to use his new position to advocate for the needs of western Massachusetts
environmental initiatives and programs to address food insecurity
as well as addressing other constituent needs as they arise
“I know I can make a difference,” Gomez told the Gazette when asked about the motivation behind his campaign
I know I can bring a different perspective to government.”
One thing Gomez feels Easthampton does well is providing social services to the community
especially by making social workers available to work with individuals and families in need
He sees room for such services to be expanded in Easthampton and the rest of the commonwealth through increased state support for social service initiatives
“I think the government needs to provide more funding for social services,” said Gomez
“We need to be more proactive to provide those services at the school level
Gomez plans to advocate for increased access to good
healthy food for those facing food insecurity
especially when it comes to the cost burdens surrounding food and the stigma that often prevents those in need from asking for help
“Sometimes people are ashamed asking for help
but I know the needs are there,” said Gomez
“We need to do everything we can to address prices in food.”
Gomez’s attention to the challenges of food insecurity are largely influenced by his family and upbringing
his grandfather used to make a living cutting sugar cane
tending to the family’s farm and producing the food they would eat
which shaped much of Gomez’s mother’s childhood
they lived in public housing and relied on food stamps
Gomez recalled regularly going to the Amherst Survival Center to get food
and he looks back favorably on these services that allowed him to provide for himself and his loved ones
his goal is to advocate for such programs to be readily available when community members find themselves in similar situations
A third pillar of focus that Gomez emphasized was environmental stewardship
Gomez said he has noticed the difficulty that many small communities experience when looking to transition to more sustainable infrastructure
especially when it comes to implementation costs
Gomez believes a solution could lie in increased grant funding for communities striving to become more environmentally friendly
as well as legislation requiring that state and municipal governments consider environmental factors in their decision making
Gomez lauded a long-standing ordinance in Easthampton requiring the city to favor fuel-efficiency in new vehicle purchases
He believes this can be expanded to benefit Massachusetts as a whole
“We need to have a law in Massachusetts that states cars and city vehicles need to be fuel efficient,” said Gomez
adding that it’s time to take climate change seriously and consistently enforce environmental regulations
Growing up in Puerto Rico’s tropical climate
Gomez witnessed the dramatic increase in hurricane-borne destruction as climate change worsened
the Pioneer Valley witnessed flooding “like never before
and it’s because of climate change,” he said
“We have to leave the world a better place for our grandchildren,” he added
But Gomez said he also recognizes that the needs of constituents are ever-evolving
and that he plans to be a visible presence in the communities he serves
ready to lend an ear to community concerns
saying that he plans to hold regular office hours in local libraries
He said that town and city hall office hours can seem “intimidating” to many people
welcoming atmosphere where people can get to know him and express their thoughts
A common concern among western Massachusetts communities is that the State House tends to focus many efforts on the eastern part of the state
Gomez said that as soon as he enters the State House
he hopes to work closely with the coalition of western Massachusetts officials there to advocate for the region
we have to work as a team to let Boston know we are here,” he said
At an election night watch party for Gomez’s campaign
Easthampton government officials expressed hope and excitement for what Gomez’s representation will bring
I think he’s worked very hard and deserves this upgrade in position,” said Salem Derby
he will likely replace him as the council’s president
but the main priority will be finding someone from Gomez’s precinct to fill the new council vacancy
Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle also expressed great respect and enthusiasm for Gomez
“Easthampton has seen the very best of Homar as City Council president — the fair way he conducts the meetings and the research he conducts on issues,” said LaChapelle
“I have no reason to believe that his state rep
City Councilor Koni Denham expressed similar sentiments
“I think if his leadership is anything like his tenure on council
he’ll always try to find the common ground,” said Denham
“I think he has the needs of the community at the forefront of his mind
… He’s going to make himself accessible to everyone
Gomez will be sworn into his new position on Jan
he’s already been busy meeting with local leaders and continuing to get to know the constituents he will now represent
A group of homeowners have filed a legal complaint in Massachusetts Land Court appealing a decision by the Easthampton Zoning Board of Appeals to grant a comprehensive permit for an 87-unit affordable housing development off Main Street
A rendering of the proposed Growing Green: Easthampton complex
A group of homeowners have filed a complaint in Land Court seeking to overturn a comprehensive permit approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals
EASTHAMPTON — An affordable housing development recently granted a comprehensive permit by the city’s Zoning Board of Appeals has been called “a beautiful vision gone awry” in a legal complaint now filed in Land Court by the property’s abutters
sits along the Manhan River and is being coordinated by Springfield-based The Community Builders in partnership with Kestrel Land Trust
The project intends to bring 87 new affordable housing units on 10 acres along Main Street
while designating the remaining 43 acres of the property as conservation land
But a group of abutters have concerns about what this new development will mean for the area’s stormwater runoff and aging sewer infrastructure
“The preliminary plans show a sewer connection with a 19th century system that’s already overloaded,” said Michael Pill
the attorney representing the group of abutters
“Nobody has explained how they’re gonna put in a new sewer line that crosses over the original line.”
Pill called the initial groundwater study conducted on the property “a complete farce,” stating that the groundwater levels at the site are already so high
it is unclear how the property will adhere to
stormwater management standards with the addition of new paved
anticipate the runoff flowing onto their properties
The abutters serving as the plaintiffs in the complaint are listed as Sage Hannah Grace
Jean Marie Bigda and Mark Albert Bigda as Trustees of the Bigda Family Revocable Trust
brought against the city’s Zoning Board of Appeals and The Community Builders
calls for an appeal to the comprehensive permit awarded by the board for this project
as well as declaratory judgment on the issue
The permit in question is a Chapter 40B permit
which allows local Zoning Boards of Appeals to approve affordable housing developments with more flexible rules than traditional permits under Massachusetts General Law
The intention of such permits is to increase affordable housing availability across municipalities
But the complaint states that the permit awarded to the 385 Main St
project utilizes findings about sewer capacities and stormwater management designs for the site that are “inaccurate
While Pill noted that the sewer issue may be solvable
he said the site’s stormwater management complications would be a much harder fix
writing that the site is “mostly an unbuildable swamp” in the complaint
The complaint also says that “while the Comprehensive Permit includes conditions purporting to deal with the sewer and stormwater issues
defendant Builders likely will not be able to comply with those conditions.”
The site was advertised as nearly 53 acres of land available to develop in a prime location
with the potential for over 200 units approved
but the complaint states that “experienced builders” walked away from the property after “doing initial due diligence.”
a land conservation organization rather than a developer
placed the property under contract for $2.5 million
The property tax assessment is $336,600,” the complaint reads
two anonymous donors gave Kestrel a $530,000 gift to explore projects in Easthampton that would involve both affordable housing and conservation efforts
making the property a contender for such a project
The city also awarded Kestrel $600,000 in CPA funds to acquire the land with The Community Builders
Included in the complaint is an email from former Easthampton City Engineer James A
which voiced concerns about the project’s burdens on sewers
This email was also read aloud at the final Zoning Board of Appeals public hearing session about the project on Sept
“This project will discharge in excess of 10,000 gallons per day of sanitary flow to an already overburdened sewer main,” the email states
“My concerns are that simply dumping a large new flow into that main will impact the existing sewer users downstream.”
Pill said that the site’s groundwater is very close to the surface of the land
which has raised worries from abutters about an increased risk of flooding
which was brought on as part of the project’s design team and is working on the site’s stormwater and sewer considerations
said that their team is working on compiling stormwater information which will then be sent to the city’s Conservation Commission for review and further permitting
“The Zoning Board had granted a comprehensive permit for the project
it doesn’t negate the need for all the other permits to be acquired
“It’s not uncommon for the comprehensive permit to be granted before other permitting work.”
Squire said that Berkshire Design Group is currently “working through the details” of the project “to ensure that we have a compliant project.”
Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle said that the stormwater information will likely go out for third party review before returning to the Conservation Commission for a permitting decision
she said that the Department of Public Works director and city engineer are looking through the concerns brought forth in the complaint to determine how they can be addressed
“It’s not uncommon to get these types of appeals on 40B affordable housing developments,” she said
“It allows abutters to further question the project’s impacts on their property.”
LaChapelle also stated that there tends to be a general impression that “a comprehensive permit is all-encompassing,” when further permits and adjustments are needed after the comprehensive permit is granted
As affordable housing creation continues to be a priority in Easthampton
LaChapelle said that new development needs to be “balanced with thorough review by the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Conservation Commission.”
“We need to do our due diligence and we’re in the process of doing that,” she said
In response to requests for comments pertaining to the concerns written in the complaint
Kestrel Land Trust and The Community Builders issued the following joint statement:
“We value this opportunity to advance affordable housing and land conservation in the community of Easthampton
We are aware an appeal was filed against our recently granted permit and look forward to working on a resolution that supports neighbors’ concerns while also promoting the joint mission of The Community Builders and Kestrel Land Trust.”They declined to comment further
EASTHAMPTON — The search for the Easthampton Public School District’s new superintendent is moving swiftly along
and three finalists for the position have been named
A final decision is expected to be announced in December
At a School Committee meeting on Tuesday night
members of the Superintendent Search Committee announced that
after a series of initial meetings and interviews
they had selected three final contenders for the role: Michelle Balch
these candidates will engage in site visits and public interviews
which are in the process of being scheduled
the role of superintendent is crucial to the success of our students
administrators and the entire community,” said Hannah Sullivan
the high school parent representative on the search committee
“A superintendent is not only an administrator
but a visionary leader who helps steer our district towards excellence
fostering an environment where every student can thrive.”
Sullivan said that the finalists each “brings a unique set of strengths and experiences to the table,” and are “ready to take on the challenges ahead.”
The position has been filled on an interim basis by Maureen Binienda after a failed search in the spring of 2023
is currently the chief instructional officer for Springfield Public Schools’ Office of Instruction
where she has led the district’s development and implementation of student-centered instruction
conducts strategic planning and more since 2023
She has 19 years of experience in educational leadership in the Springfield Public School District
where she has served as a special education teacher and assistant principal
as well as an interim superintendent in 2024 and other high-level administrative roles
During her time as chief instructional officer
secured $2.2 million in funding for professional development
led a district administrator pipeline program and launched the “Portrait of a Graduate” strategic planning framework based on community input
Balch received her bachelor’s degree from Westfield State College
a Master of Education with a focus on moderate disabilities from Cambridge College and a doctor of education in leadership in schooling from the University of Massachusetts Lowell
brings experience as an educational leader who has worked on curriculum and instruction
Kennedy serves as assistant superintendent of the Athol-Royalston Regional School District
she has been responsible for curriculum review
data-driven decision-making and other duties
She has also served as director of intervention and acceleration
principal of Royalston Community School and ARRSF director of Title I for this district
She has also served as a fifth grade teacher and interim principal for Chicopee Public Schools
elementary school principal for Westfield Public Schools
educational consultant for CMKLeadership and lead dissertation advisor for the University of New England
She boasts skills in educator evaluation and coaching
Kennedy received her bachelor’s in elementary education from Westfield State in 2002
her Master of Education in education administration from Springfield College in 2006
her doctor of education in educational leadership from the University of New England in 2018 and a certificate in advanced education leadership in leadership for excellence and equity from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education in 2020
brings eight years of experience as an assistant superintendent
three years of experience as a principal and six years of experience as an assistant principal across various school districts
She also has 13 years of experience as an educator in Springfield Public Schools and has served as the interim superintendent of Granby Public Schools since earlier this year
Rickson is experienced in administrative work in career and technical education
obtaining and managing grants and ensuring accountability and compliance on a district level
Rickson has held teaching and leadership positions in Springfield Public Schools
the Athol-Royalston Regional School District
and the Hampshire Regional School District
Her most recent role before becoming interim superintendent of Granby Public Schools was assistant superintendent of curriculum
instruction and assessment for the Hampshire Regional
where she analyzed student performance data to inform curriculum development and implementation
as well as overseeing professional development initiatives
Rickson received her bachelor’s government from Western New England University in 1990 and her Master of Education in educational leadership from American International College in 2009
Dates for upcoming site visits and public interviews are expected to be made available soon
A free regional screening of “Recovery City,” a documentary directed by Lisa Olivieri
will take place at the Academy of Music in Northampton on Thursday night
Diane Brown of Easthampton won a $100 a week for life prize in the Massachusetts State Lottery’s new “$100 a Week for Life” game
EASTHAMPTON — Diane Brown of Easthampton has won a $100 a week for life prize in the Massachusetts State Lottery’s new “$100 a Week for Life” $1 instant ticket game that went on sale last month
Brown chose the cash option on her prize and received a one-time payment of $80,000 before taxes
The winning ticket was purchased at College Highway Variety
The store will receive a $1,040 bonus for its sale of this ticket
SOUTHAMPTON — Community members of all ages will make a fast break to the basketball courts Saturday and Sunday for the third annual Magic for Maddie 3v3 basketball fundraiser at Norris School. The tournament is presented by the Southampton Youth Athletic Association and Hyundai Hope on Wheels
This year, Massachusetts state Sen. John C. Velis will be on hand Saturday as a player among the total 155 basketball teams participating in the tournament
New to the 3v3 tournament this year is an online auction to support Magic for Maddie
The auction is open now and will close at 2 p.m
High school teams (grades 9 & 10) and grades (11 & 12) and the three adult brackets (women
men under 40 and men over 40) are set to tip off at 2 p.m
(5 & 6) and grade (7 & 8) divisions will tip off at 9 a.m
prizes for winners and best “Spirit of Maddie” team awards
Magic for Maddie was born during the summer of 2022 to raise funds for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma
research and to help fund Maddie’s clinical DIPG trial at Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia
Although Maddie Schmidt lost her heroic 10-month battle against (DIPG)
her legacy continues to shine and inspire her community
Magic for Maddie has raised more than $750,000 and funded more than $90,000 in research
The foundation has also donated more than $365,000 in direct financial support to pediatric cancer families and kept $70,000 local
supporting western Massachusetts nonprofit organizations and families fighting serious childhood illnesses
For more information, visit www.magicformaddie.com
and the Northampton Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host a free regional screening of “Recovery City,” a documentary directed by Lisa Olivieri
The screening will take place on Thursday at the Academy of Music
followed by a panel question-and-answer session featuring the filmmaker and two of the film’s participants
Tables featuring community resources centered on harm reduction
and treatment will be available before and after the screening
city of Northampton DHHS director of substance use prevention
at tmcandrew@northamptonma.gov or 413-587-1322
SPRINGFIELD — With anticipation of home improvements trends continuing to be high in 2025
according to the Home Improvement Research Institute
the 70th Western Mass Home & Garden Show that opens Thursday and runs through Sunday has two buildings of home improvement companies that will be on hand to show
demonstrate and advise thousands of homeowners expected to attend
The show takes place at the Eastern States Exposition
executive director of the Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Western MA
said show vendors will be busy building displays and setting up products and samples that will help homeowners gain more insight and a better understanding of the options available to them for their next home improvement project
The show will provide friends and family with a chance to explore various product lines in an interactive environment where they can see and touch the products
and connect with installers and contractors who may be involved in their next project
A coupon offering a discount for entry is available on the Western Mass Home & Garden Show website
EASTHAMPTON — An average homeowner in the city can expect to pay about $185 more in property taxes this year
The increase reflects both a higher tax rate and higher property values this year
which city officials say was expected amid current national trends
the City Council voted to continue with a single tax rate for all residential and commercial properties
which has been set at $13.67 per $1,000 of assessed property value
up 11 cents from the fiscal year 2024 rate of $13.56 per $1,000
The increase in the tax rate also comes with an increase in Easthampton’s property values
analyzed through a review of 140 arms-length sales between Jan
Residential property values increased by 3.4%
commercial property values increased by 10.7%
and industrial property values increased by 1.8%
single-family home values increased by 2.9% whereas condominium values increased by 6.4%
according to data from the city assessor’s office
The average single-family home value in Easthampton for fiscal year 2025 is valued at $391,615
That translates into an annual property tax bill of approximately $5,350 — about $184 higher than last year
when the average single-family home value was $381,001
According to Easthampton Principal Assessor Martha Leamy
as they are in keeping with national trends surrounding rising housing costs
Leamy said there are some exemptions made available to communities by the state for older adults who may have difficulties bridging the gap with these increases — such as needs-based senior exemptions and veterans exemptions — but that their strict requirements severely limit their availability to many community members
The city mailed actual tax bills around Dec
Actual tax bills include value changes due to the market
The new tax rate set in December is used to factor the tax amounts
The mailing of the actual tax bill beginning this fiscal year contains only the third quarter and has a due date of Feb
The fourth quarter will be mailed in March with a due date of May 1
For questions about tax payments, contact the City Collector’s Office at 413-529-1400, ext. 414 or collections@easthamptonma.gov
If property owners believe an assessment is incorrect
after the receipt of third quarter tax bills
they can file an abatement application with the Assessor’s Office
on the due date of the third quarter tax bill
To obtain an application, call the Assessor’s Office at 413-529-1400, ext. 401 or go to the assessor’s page on the city website at easthamptonma.gov. For questions regarding the assessed value of real or personal property, contact the Assessor’s Office at 413-529-1400, ext. 401 or assessor@easthamptonma.gov
Cindy Baceski hammers a stamp during a copper bookmark workshop at the Easthampton Public Library Annex last week
Beth Tiffany looks through different stamps during a copper bookmark workshop at the Easthampton Public Library Annex last week
Kat Emet hammers into a copper piece during a copper bookmark workshop at the Easthampton Public Library Annex last week
watches as metalsmith Heather Beck demonstrates a technique during a copper bookmark workshop at the Easthampton Public Library Annex last week
look through different stamps during a copper bookmark workshop at the Easthampton Public Library Annex last week
work during a copper bookmark workshop at the Easthampton Public Library Annex last week
first row) this year’s Easthampton High School We the People team poses for a team photo during this year’s state championships.Photo credit: Eric Haynes
EASTHAMPTON — Easthampton High School’s We the People Team has yet again captured a state title — their eighth straight — and are now preparing for April when they head to Washington
The team is now seeking donations from the community to help fund the trip
With so many consecutive years of success for the program led by teacher Kelley Brown
the class discussed with Reminder Publishing their success and what being a part of this curriculum is all about
We the People is a curriculum and program that is offered by the Massachusetts Center for Civic Education
nonpartisan organization that promotes civic education in public and private schools and communities
Almost all the students on this year’s team have been familiar with We the People since they were in middle school as the program’s success over the years has only boosted its status in the community
“It made me very interested in getting a civic education and it felt like the right fit and how close everyone seemed on the team was a draw to me too because creating that community is so important in high school
so I felt like that was where I needed to be,” said Devin O’Brien
Whether they have been set on joining the team from a younger age or were pushed to join when picking classes for this school year
students shared that the experience has been rewarding as they become immersed in the We the People community and culture
“You hear [growing up] about how the streak started and how this whole thing was built
and you know you want to be a part of something
You see how much it meant to the community
especially when I was able to see them win nationals [in 2020] how much support they had from that and how much it meant to the community,” said Ethan Mullaly
the course focuses on learning about the U.S
Constitution and governance from its philosophical origins to modern application
The course is divided into six units where students learn about different aspects of the constitution and government studied throughout the semester
classes go through an authentic type of assessment where they participate in a mock congressional hearing
This is ultimately what the competition is when Easthampton High School matches up against other schools in the state
where they have now captured eight straight championships
totaling nine in 12 years and one national title
Teammate Michael Bachman Baez said Brown is good at helping students stay consistent and resilient through their work which comes as no surprise once you look into the success the program has seen
“I think that’s the only way that this program works is because of her leadership and how she teaches us to not only care for ourselves but care for others while taking such a hard class
Being able to learn those skills not just about history but being able to learn how you can help yourself learn
other learns and support others is really one of the most important things of this class and how we all work together as a community,” said Baez
Other students shared similar glowing remarks about Brown’s leadership and approach to teaching
Multiple students appreciated her ability to keep and make each student feel equal
Brown is very insistent on teaching us virtues throughout the whole year and you get to build bonds with your unit
and it also helps you so much for your future career and everything else like that,” said Kylie Dorman
Oliver Oparowski said winning states was an awesome experience as he and his teammates were able to add to the legacy of the institution that is We the People
getting to see the knowledge and work ethic that we developed over time was really important,” said Oparowski
Many students credited the course for assisting them in finding clarity on their future career paths and the foundational habits created during the course are benefits they hope to carry with them through life
to lead a good life you have a responsibility to be an informed citizen
to understand both personal values as well as the responsibilities you hold to your community
So developing yourself as a good person for your own gain and developing your knowledge for things that are really crucial for a successful community as a whole,” said Oparowski
“I feel like the farthest strides I’ve been able to take in my life
feeling like I understand the world around me and understanding what I need to do to live the way I want to live
I feel like have come in the past year definitely with the help of the We the People program and understanding as an informed citizen
it’s going to be a lot harder for anybody to pull one over on you.”
Multiple students said they had an interest in pursuing law in college
Others said the class helped them grow more confident and comfortable with open discussion and debate
These positives and more for students have all been in thanks to the We the People experience
“I remember during the candy bar hearing I tried to defend a candy bar
I remember Miss Brown gave me a lot of confidence when she said I had a lot of ethos when I was talking because I didn’t have a script in front of me to read or anything
but I remember that really set me on the right path,” said Anthony Incampo
A part of the program’s success also worth noting is how the connection to the team doesn’t just end after your year on it
Class of 2019 student Shane Gravel volunteers to assist in We the People training and courses throughout the school year
continuing a pay-it-forward mentality the program sees from various former students
while I don’t necessarily deal with the constitution every day of my life
I think I encounter an opportunity to use the skills we learned whether its agreeing or disagreeing with people
thinking on your feet and digging into the details,” said Gravel
The program’s growth in popularity has also created resources from the community through practicing lawyers and scholars that will visit and prepare with students
Brown gives all the credit to her student’s hard work and commitment to success
“I always say that the only thing we can be is the best that we can be
but we can be the best us that we can be and that’s always my goal and why I put the work in,” Brown said to The Reminder and her class
“I want to try and make you [students] the best you
and I think you guys know that’s what we aim for.”
As the We the People team is set to return to Washington
they are still looking for donations to its fundraiser to cover travel costs
visit tinyurl.com/u7754xn3.Brown added if people want to send a direct donation
they can send a check made out to “Easthampton High School” and mail it to: Easthampton High School c/o Kelley Brown
I drove through the Easthampton town center today
the Last Homely Shack East of the Manhan is a mile and change from Easthampton center so it’s not like I can avoid it if I need to run errands — but today was different
It wasn’t because the local Episcopal church
was having its annual All 4 Her consignment sale
although their parking lot was parked with women hoping for bargains
Nor was it because it was Saturday and a lot of people were out shopping
having a nice breakfast at the Silver Spoon or Tandem Bagel
or making their weekly trip to the library
It wasn’t even locals out for a stroll or a walk to enjoy the spring air; it’s in the 40s and raining pretty steadily
so sensible folk are indoors making lunch or watching college basketball
middle class Americans were standing out at the little rotary where Main Street turns into Route 10
holding up homemade signs denouncing President Funnel Tinyhands
and their attempts to dismantle the last century’s worth of gains by anyone who wasn’t a rich white man
Others had written DUMP FRUMP on the remains of a cardboard box
A grim middle aged woman had wrapped clear plastic around an optic yellow poster board to protect a call for Mr
Muskmelon to be deported from running in the rain
There was even a bearded Jewish man in a bright yellow safety vest and matching full length sparkly tutu directing traffic and dropping curtsies as he waved motorists through
It was also a prime example of the sort of quiet
unremarkable heroism that can and does spring up in the least expected places
Think about it: the idea of protecting democracy
standing against rich men attempting to claw back protections against child labor
against any and everything except their own greed
was enough to bring several hundred very ordinary
very very very angry citizens out of their warm
comfortable homes in their comfortable middle class subdivisions to stand out in the rain and raise their voices against the darkness creeping over our land
There’s been a lot of talk about how Americans are soft and complacent
about how 2016 and 2024 proved that we are the sort of “good Germans” who did nothing when a failed watercolorist destroyed the Weimar Republic in 1933
That may be true in some areas — a white guy in an oversized pickup trailing a TRUMP 2024 banner roughly the length of an aircraft carrier drove past at one point
sneering and shouting — but if what I saw today is any guide
Easthampton is not going to submit meekly as President Tinyhands and Mr
Muskmelon take a meat axe to our government
Did you attend one of the stand outs? Drive past one? What signs did you see
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The 12th annual Easthampton WinterFest features activities from Jan
EASTHAMPTON — Easthampton’s annual WinterFest has returned for the 12th time
bringing a slate of fun activities for all to enjoy while raising funds to benefit the city’s iconic Nashawannuck Pond
WinterFest has become a beloved community event and a major fundraiser for the maintenance of Nashawannuck Pond
Hosted by Friends of Nashawannuck Pond and the Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee
WinterFest invites community members to participate in a range of events both in person and online from Jan
Whether it’s a snowflake making contest or a polar plunge
and the funds raised throughout will help keep Nashawannuck Pond scenic and healthy
a retired Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee member
who had the vision,” explained Beth Tiffany
a current Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee and Friends of Nashawannuck Pond member
The festival began as a fundraiser with just two activities: an ice harvest and a community fire by the pond
more organizations and businesses started to get involved
“We now have over 40 activities spanning over four weeks of family filled fun,” Tiffany enthused
Proceeds from WinterFest cover the approximate costs for yearly pond maintenance such as herbicide treatments
barley straw deployment to deter cyanobacteria
treating invasive species and administrative costs
Concept plans are also currently being reviewed for one shoreline stabilization access wall that was put in place in 2001 to prevent erosion
we hope to also raise more funds to support financing for the restoration and public access of a stabilization wall in area 3,” said Tiffany in an email to the Gazette
The Steering Committee is working with GZA Environmental on the wall
and Tiffany said that the plans alone cost $9,600 — about $5,330 of which has already been raised by Friends of the Nashawannuck Pond
For those with a shortage of time or who want to join in on the fun from the comfort of home
there is a lineup of online events to participate in
including a Nashawannuck Pond photo contest
Abandoned Building Brewery will host The One Man Party Trivia on Feb
8 will be a day filled with festive activities
community members can try their hand at historical ice harvesting on the pond alongside historian Dennis Picard
using a pond saw to “harvest” blocks of ice and getting the chance to learn about Easthampton’s role in the ice industry
There will also be a nature walk in Arcadia
a community fire by the pond and photo ops by Bumble
The Easthampton Fire Department will also be hosting their Polar Plunge for the second year
which Tiffany said was previously a success
“Last year’s Polar Plunge sponsored by Easthampton Fire Department was a great hit,” she said
“We are hoping for the same turnout this year.”
For those who want to have some fun while warming up inside
numerous events will also be taking place in Keystone Mill at 122 Pleasant St.
puppeteering by Tom Knight and a show by Family Jungle Entertainment
Activities will also be presented by the Easthampton Library
the Council on Aging and Easthampton Skate Club
Visitors will also have the chance to meet some furry friends: K-9 Gino from the Easthampton Police Department will be available for a meet and greet
and Easthampton Feed will bring Brown the cow for a “Cuddle a Cow” event
Greenfield Savings Bank will also be providing transportation via the Boylston Rooms Trolley from 10-3
The full WinterFest events calendar can be viewed at www.nashawannuckpond.org/winterfest.html
Those interested in volunteering at WinterFest can sign up at https://signup.com/go/WUqQfqx. For more information, visit the Nashawannuck Pond website at www.nashawannuckpond.org