The sun didn’t make an appearance, but that didn’t prevent a bevy of public figures from coming out to Sheriff Nick Cocchi’s annual cookout. So That Reminds Me braved the rain, taking with local elected officials and political hopefuls about the issues that matters most to their communities and their goals for the future.

• Intro: 0:15
• Springfield City Councilor Jose Delgado: 10:12
• State Rep. Candidate Michael Lachenmeyer: 17:40
• Sheriff Nick Cocchi: 23:55
• Chicopee Mayor John Vieau: 34:20
• Springfield City Councilor Victor Davila: 39:42
• West Springfield Mayor William Reichelt: 43:00
• State Sen. Adam Gomex: 47:12
• Westfield Mayor Michael McCabe: 51:46
• Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia: 58:47
• State Rep. Angelo Puppolo: 1:10:33
• Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni: 1:17:00
• Springfield School Committee Candidate Ayanna Crawford: 1:23:14
• Chicopee City Councilor Sam Shumsky: 1:29:21

It’s August, and fair season is officially underway in Western Mass! In this episode of So That Reminds Me, we’re joined by Three County Fair Executive Director Taylor Haas and Westfield Fair President Sheila Phelon and Secretary Maureen Freniere. We dive into the rich history of these beloved local traditions and give you a sneak peek at what’s in store for 2025. Plus, we highlight other must-visit fairs happening around the region!

• Intro: 0:12
• Westfield Fair: 3:47
• Three County Fair: 24:00
• Other Western Mass. fairs: 42:14

In this episode, hosts Chris Maza and Tyler Garnet are joined by state Sen. Jake Oliveira for a wide-ranging discussion on the latest developments at the Massachusetts State House and what they mean for Western Massachusetts. They examine how federal decisions are influencing the state budget, the ongoing delay of the voter-approved legislative audit, and the uncertain future of the Westover Job Corps. The conversation also explores how funds from the Fair Share Amendment are being allocated—and whether they’re meeting expectations. Tune in for a conversation that breaks down key issues shaping the region and beyond.

• Intro: 0:12
• Welcome, Sen. Oliviera: 4:55
• Budget opportunities and challenges: 14:24
• Federal impact on the state budget: 20:45
• Fair Share Amendment allocations: 26:33
• Westover Job Corps’ status: 33:34
• Legislative audit conflict: 39:09
• New WestCOMM facility: 43:29
• Favorite ice cream spot: 46:48
• Contacting the senator: 51:48

On this episode of So That Reminds Me, Kristen Neville, executive director of Blues to Green, joins hosts Dennis Hackett and Lauren LeBel to give us the inside scoop on the 12th annual Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival, happening July 11 and 12.

Kristen shares how the festival brings together people from all walks of life through an incredible lineup of jazz, blues, Afro-Caribbean, funk, and global roots music. Hear all about this year’s headliners — including Endea Owens and the Cookout, El Laberinto del Coco, and Merging Roots — and what makes this event such a powerful celebration of music, culture, and community.

On this episode of So That Reminds Me, we’re getting ready to celebrate Independence Day! Dennis and Lauren talk with Adele Hill of the East Longmeadow Fourth of July Parade Committee and Chris sits down with Izzy Post Ruhland from the Enfield Fourth of July Town Celebration to highlight two of the region’s biggest and most beloved holiday traditions. We’ll also give you a rundown of many of the other parades, fireworks displays, and celebrations taking place throughout our area—so you can make the most of your Fourth!

• Welcome: 0:11
• East Longmeadow Fourth of July Parade: 3:45
• Enfield Fourth of July Town Celebration: 19:27
• Other Fourth of July celebrations: 32:36

Executive Editor Chris Maza and reporter Tyler Garnet sit down with Kimberly Lee of MiraVista Behavioral Health Services for an insightful conversation about the organization’s mission, the vital services it provides, and the importance of prioritizing mental wellness year-round. Together, they explore the significance of Mental Health Awareness Month in May and Men's Mental Health Awareness Month in June, while also discussing the unique challenges adolescents face when school is out for the summer. Whether you’re seeking support, resources, or a deeper understanding of community mental health, this episode offers an informative and compassionate look at the work being done right here in Western Massachusetts.

• Welcome: 0:11
• An ice cream suggestion: 2:43
• MiraVista’s mission and services: 7:08
• Miravista’s collaborative efforts: 13:49
• Mental Health Awareness Month: 15:45
• Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month: 20:40
• Adolescent mental health during summer: 26:02
• MiraVista’s direct admissions program: 31:37
• Best ways to get help: 37:17

This week on So That Reminds Me, the Reminder Publishing editorial team sets off on a delicious mission across Western Massachusetts in search of the region’s coolest treats. Join Chris Maza, Dennis Hackett, Lauren LeBel, and Tyler Garnet as they talk about everything from nostalgic classics like maple walnut and strawberry to bold new flavors like peanut butter Oreo. They also check out some great options for those with dietary restrictions—because everyone deserves a scoop of something sweet!

Got a favorite local spot or go-to flavor we missed? Email us at news@thereminder.com and tell us all about it!

• Intro: 0:11
• Remembering the June 1, 2011 tornado: 4:16
• Remembering Springfield officer Kevin Ambrose: 6:12
• Westview Farm Creamery: 11:03
• Rice Fruit Farm: 13:!5
• Herrell’s: 16:25
• JB’s Ice Cream Factory: 18:28
• Mt. Tom’s Homemade Ice Cream: 24:45
• Elsie’s Creamery at Randall’s Farm: 27:50
• Northside Creamery: 29:55
• Cup or cone?: 31:24
• Batch: 32:57
• Moma Jaqs: 38:29
• Moolicious: 41:11
• Previewing a bonus episode: 45:28

In honor of National Foster Care Awareness Month, this week’s episode of So That Reminds Me shines a light on the foster care community in Western Massachusetts. Co-hosts Dennis Hackett and Lauren LeBel sit down with Marianna Litovich, executive director of All Our Kids, Inc., a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting and empowering foster families.

Marianna shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of foster care in the region, highlights the remarkable families who open their hearts and homes, and discusses how AOK is building a stronger, more connected community for children and caregivers alike.

Tune in for a heartfelt and informative conversation about advocacy, resilience, and the power of local action.

• Welcome: 0:08
• Dine Springfield: 0:58
• A special addition to Reminder Weeklies: 2:29
• Introducing Marianna Litovich and AOK: 4:02
• AOK’s growth: 5:37
• AOK community events: 7:52
• AOK’s involvement with foster families: 9:10
• The distinction between foster care and adoption:10:27
• Foster care need in Western Mass.: 14:15
• Foster Care Awareness Month: 17:57
• AOK’s Community Closet: 22:56
• Has the fostering community changed?: 25:53
• AOK Connect: 29:34
• Foster care as a societal concern: 30:33