G. Michael Dobbs

Massachusetts

Managing Editor at The Reminder (East Longmeadow, MA)

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Articles

After nearly 25 years, I will shut up — well, sort of - The Reminder

Feb 10, 2025 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

Back in November of 1999, I applied and was hired to be the principal reporter and editor of the Chicopee Herald. The Buendo Brothers, then owner of Reminder Publications, had bought the Herald in 1998 and there was a job opening when the initial editor left. I was happy to be back in local journalism and made some changes that I thought would improve the paper. I subsequently wrote a column about who I was, what I wanted to do, etc.
AFC Grill adds to the flavor of Springfield’s South End

Jan 20, 2025 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

SPRINGFIELD — If nothing else, Springfield is a city of immigrants, and that is certainly reflected in its restaurant offerings. In the last decade or so, we have seen the addition of Middle Eastern cuisine with establishments such as Nadim’s, Saray 2 and Cedar’s Food Mart and Grill, all places I have enjoyed visiting. Now there is a new restaurant with a different Middle Eastern take: AFC Grill.
Legislators name HERO Act, gun law, housing among accomplishments

Jan 13, 2025 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

SPRINGFIELD — Both state Sen. Adam Gomez and state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez spoke about the gun legislation signed into law by Gov. Maura Healey as one of the most important achievements of the last legislative session. The two Democratic members of the Springfield delegation recently appeared on “Government Matters” on Focus Springfield Television.
Four more years for Mayor Domenic Sarno after fourth term?

Jan 13, 2025 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

The next mayoral race will culminate with an inauguration in 2028. That’s a while off but the supporters of Dominic Sarno are prepping now. Recently, Peter Picknelly hosted a fundraiser for the mayor at The Student Prince. At that event, Sarno, who is the longest-serving mayor in the city’s lengthy history, declared he is running for another four-year term to much applause from the participants. The event was described as an “honor” to Sarno. It wasn’t some sort of honor.
Merriam-Webster picked its word of the year, what’s yours?

Dec 27, 2024 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

It’s a favorite time of the year — when Merriam-Webster announces its word of the year. Yes, I’m easily excited and I’m a word nerd. You see, for me this annual event speaks to how our language changes or stays the same, or how a word that may not have been in use much before suddenly comes to the forefront. Of course, I also get excited because this decision happened in Springfield and about a mile from my home.
Palmer copes with unexpected end of private ambulance serv ice

Dec 9, 2024 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

PALMER — The town of Palmer is now considering various options for a permanent ambulance service for the community since the abrupt departure of Palmer Ambulance Service at the end of October. Town Manager Brad Brothers explained to Reminder Publishing the Palmer Fire Department has taken over the service but a permanent solution must be determined by the Town Council. He emphasized the town was only given a seven-day notice and had no idea the announcement was coming.
Mayflower Marathon again cruises past $200K milestone

Dec 3, 2024 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs
Reuse of Ludlow Mills continues with new housing

Nov 25, 2024 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

One of the open units at The Residences at Mill 8. Reminder Publishing photo by G. Michael DobbsLUDLOW — In the middle of a ceremony celebrating the successful renovation of Building 8 of the Ludlow Mills into 95 units of senior housing, something happened that for many attending is a signal for the property’s renewal. The clock tower, a symbol of Ludlow, not only tells time once more but chimed loudly at noon.
Committee to find interim superintendent for Monson

Nov 25, 2024 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

MONSON — At its meeting on Nov. 13, the School Committee voted to move forward in an effort to hire an interim school superintendent in light of the retirement of former Superintendent Cheryl Clarke on Oct. 24. On Nov. 4, Clarke announced she need to take an extended medical leave and would not be returning from medical leave. Clarke had worked for the district for 20 years with 12 of them serving as superintendent. Kate Watts is the acting superintendent until an interim is hired.
Hampden residents defeat Senior Center issue at Town Meeting

Nov 20, 2024 | thereminder.com | G. Michael Dobbs

HAMPDEN — A capacity audience at the Hampden Town Meeting on Oct. 13 rejected for a third time an effort to put on the next ballot a question approving a Proposition 2 1/2 override to borrow money to pay for renovations and expansion of the town’s Senior Center. The discussion took nearly an hour before the decisive vote.