The marks Toy for Joy's 89th season.

View full size

SPRINGFIELD - More than 4,000 Greater Springfield families have signed up for Toy for Joy this holiday season.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

Maj. Thomas E. Perks, co-commander of the Greater Springfield Salvation Army Citadel, said that a special makeup registration day held on Friday pushed the number of participating families over the 4,000 mark.

“It’s been pretty steady,” Perks said Friday afternoon.

Toy for Joy distribution at the Salvation Army’s Greater Springfield Citadel begins tomorrow and will run through Friday. Participants received pre-arranged times to pick up toys, books and games for their children when they registered.

Last year nearly 20,000 children from Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties benefited from the holiday toy campaign.

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

Maj. Linda-Jo Perks, co-commander, said that volunteers from Hasbro and elsewhere, helped the registration process run smoothly.

“They kept moving things along and people had very small waits,” she said.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday.

Toy for Joy relies on donations made by readers of The Republican and Masslive.com.
Recent donations include $200 from the Italian American Veterans Post 84 in East Longmeadow.

The total raised to date for Toy for Joy is $24,073. That leaves $125,927 to be raised.

For more information, call 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23.
Here’s a list of the latest contributors:
In memory of Bronislaw and Josephine Kasperek and Romeo and Priscilla Martin, $20
In memory of Tom Jekot, love Betty, $100
In memory of my husband Arthur Krowchenko, $25
Linda, $10
In memory of Lorena Gail, $10
In loving memory of Bob and Diane from the Agin family, $10
In loving memory of my father Samuel Rigby, $10
In loving memory of Ken and Margaret Smiledge and David and Edward Dietz from their family, $100
In memory of my Mom Marjorie with love, $100
In loving memory of Nancy and Arthur K. Strole, greatly missed from the Stroles, $25
In loving memory of Rena and Perry E. Hall and Mary E. Grenier from the Stroles, $25
God bless the children, $25
Nancy, $25
For Rocky Nelson who loved all children from Jim and Maryann Lord, $25
Merry Christmas from Michael and Kelly, $50
Paul and Victoria, $25
Thank you St. Jude for favors granted, MML, $50
In loving memory of Robert Van Brocklyn and Mark Satter, they loved Christmas, $30
In memory of our sons Walter Jr. and Daniel, $25
Merry Christmas from Minnie, $5
I have so many blessings, $20
Merry Christmas from Tatum and Tenley, $100
Merry Christmas from Judith, $25
In loving memory of Lynn and GG, $50
SJC, $25
Merry Christmas to all, $20
In memory of the best Mom and Dad, love Reg, $50
In memory of Anna and Edward Bushaw from Eddie and Kristen, $25
Gail and Billy, $100
In memory of Jim Harp, $100
In memory of Leo Malanson, love your wife, children and grandchildren, $10
In honor of St. Jude, $21
In memory of Walter and Sally Jurkowski, $50
Anonymous, $15
In memory of all our deceased members from Italian American War Vets Post 64, $200
In loving memory of Alice Methe and Elizabeth Soja from Jim and Deb, $25
In memory of Gene-Stanley and Irish, $25
In memory of David Mutch from Sara and Becky, $25
In loving memory of Jason DeGray, $50
In memory of Gramma Christmas, $50
Remember Marge and Flip Phillips and Mamie and Pop Moores, $50
Have a blessed Christmas from Linn and Fred, $15
For health and blessings for Marcia, JMC, $20
In memory of Meme and Pepe Wheeler, Memere and Pepere Boissy and Steve from the Wheelers, $50
In loving memory of Uncle Billy, Auntie MaryAnne and Uncle JB, miss you Stephanie and Michelle Pirroni, $40
In loving memory of George R and George W Waterman, sadly missed by their family, $25
Mohammad, $100
Happy Holidays from Sam Mainville, $10
Helen, $25
Edward, $20
In loving memory of Bobby Blair, love Mom and Dad, $10
In loving memory of Ed Wesloski (River Rat), love Vickie and Diane, $10

RECEIVED, $2,056
TOTAL TO DATE, $24,073
STILL NEEDED, $125,927

Customers have criticized utilities for a slow response and inaccurate power restoration estimates, among other things.

GREENFIELD — The state Department of Public Utilities will hold two final local public hearings on Tuesday to gauge how utility companies responded to the Oct. 29 snowstorm, which caused massive damage and left some Western Massachusetts communities without power for more than a week.

Both DPU sessions will be held this evening at 7 p.m. in Greenfield and Brookfield.

The Greenfield session, which will focus on Western Massachusetts Electric Co.'s storm response and preparedness, will take place at Greenfield High School, 1 Lenox Ave.

The Brookfield session, which will focus on National Grid's handling of the storm, will take place at Brookfield Town Hall, 6 Central St.

Previous DPU hearings were held in Belchertown, East Longmeadow and Springfield, and some of the citizens who attended the sessions criticized utility officials for poor communication during the outages.

Major points of contention for critics included a general perception that both WMECO and National Grid responded too slowly, and general frustration over power restoration estimates that rarely proved accurate.

In some instances, National Grid upgraded restoration estimates to sooner than originally predicted, only to later downgrade those estimates to much later than originally predicted – crushing some customers' optimism for a timely resolution to the problem.

Northeast Utilities, the Hartford-based parent company of WMECO and Connecticut Light & Power, expects the storm's price tag to exceed $202 million.

The company, in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission last week, said the bulk of the costs – around $163 million – stem from restoration efforts at CL&P.

At the height of the storm, about 830,000 Connecticut customers were without power. At the height of the storm in Massachusetts, which is served by several utility companies, around 700,000 customers lost power, including more than 200,000 in the western portion of the state.

Northeast Utilities said around $23.5 million will pay for WMECO restoration costs, while $16.2 million will go toward a third subsidiary, Public Service Co. of New Hampshire.

The utility company predicted its fourth-quarter earnings would not be significantly affected by the nor'easter, except for an $18 million charge to investors – or 10 cents per share – for a fund to reimburse some costs for residential customers.

Material from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Toy for Joy has a goal of raising $150,000 for Dec. 23.

View full size

SPRINGFIELD – FLN-MAR Rubber and Plastics, Inc. of Holyoke honors both its customers and needy children in Western Massachusetts with an annual gift to the Toy for Joy campaign.

Anne Cistoldi, an employee of the company, said it has been donating to the holiday campaign for several years now. A number of the company’s customers receive holiday letters stating that the donation has been made in their name, she said. “I think it’s great for our customers to know it’s a gift on a local level,” Cistoldi said. “We will look forward to doing this again next year.”

FLN-MAR gave $500 to Toy for Joy. Last year, nearly 20,000 children in Hampden, Hampshire and Berkshire counties benefited from the Toy for Joy fund.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season. Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have been among the volunteers who have been aiding the Salvation Army with the program. Donations to date tally to $26,720. That leaves $123,280 to be raised.

For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

With thanks for my grandson Brayden on his 6 month birthday, $10
Wishing Kathy Gallivan and all on 2011 Ireland trip a Nollaig Shona Dhuit, G and C P, $25
In loving memory of Joseph and Elizabeth Surprenant, $50
Merry Christmas to all children, in memory of Mom and Dad, $25
In lieu of presents for my students in Room 13 at Mountain View School is East Long., $50
To honor Aunt Dot, love Greg, Carol, Allison and Amanda, $25
For the kids, $25
In memory of Connie and Walter Maciolek, love Ray and JoAnn and family, $25
In memory of Madeline and Armand Degree, love JoAnn and Ray and family, $25
Merry Christmas kiddies, $100
Lew and Jade, $20
In memory of Grammy and Grampy Maurer, love Jeff, Mike and Chris, $15
In honor of Matthew’s first Christmas, $25
Anonymous, $100
In thanks for the best family in the whole world, $25
In loving memory of Tom Mairo, $100
Merry Christmas all from Joan and Bob, $50
In gratitude for Kristen, Sheri, Joe, Alissa, Alex and Aubrey, $100
In loving memory of Doris and Richard Corriveau, $20
In loving memory of my angel mother “peanut”, $25
Carol, $25
Merry Christmas Mom and Dad, $100
Merry Christmas Barry and Dan, $50
In loving memory of Marilyn Cronin Urdzela wife, $15
Happy Holidays from Mark and Sue, $150
I wish the best to all the children from Brian, $10
In memory of family and friends no longer with us, The Kenyons, $20
Love to Nicholas, Isabella, Lizzie, James, Matt, Jack and Meghan from great gramp Stan Olechna, $35
In memory of loved ones who have passed away, $25
In memory of Pepere, we miss you, $25
Merry Christmas to the children everywhere, $50
May these toys provide hope and fulfill dreams for our kids, $30
In loving memory of our daughter Christine Weckerly and my mother Catherine, $25
Merry Christmas to all the children, $10
To see a smile on a child’s face, $20
In memory of our beloved son Paul Woishnis from Mom and Dad, $10
In loving memory of our precious grandson Matthew Woishnis from Baci and Dziadziu, $10
In memory of Tanner Simpkiss from brothers Hunter, Shea and family, $20
In loving memory of Lindy, Samantha, Maybelline, Freddie, Kelly, Scamper, Clancy, Molly and Sparkey, $27
In loving memory of Edward from Mary, Frances, John, Fred and Michael, $100
In loving memory of Grandma Bewsee who loved children, $25
In memory of my husband Frank, $10
In loving memory of the six Worcester firefighters, $20
Merry Christmas from RMK, $25
Merry Christmas from Wayne and Maureen, $25
Anonymous, $25
In loving memory of Henry C and Ethel E Gibson, Joseph R and Dorothy R Braun, Joseph M Braun and Carole Clarke, $100
To remember George Jackson, love by all his family, $100
Thanks to all the servicemen and women who keep us free, $25
Kathleen, $20
In memory of Harold Odiorne Sr., $25
In memory of Gwendolyn Marshall, $25
In memory of Bud and Millie Carey, $25
Merry Christmas to all and Happy New Year, $10
In loving memory of “Grandma down there” Dorothy Savard, $100
FLN-MAR Rubber and Plastics, Inc says, “Thank You” and Merry Christmas to our loyal customers with our wishes for Happy Holidays, $500

RECEIVED, $2,647
TOTAL TO DATE, $26,720
STILL NEEDED, $123,280

The West Springfield-based company gave $500.

View full size

SPRINGFIELD - Direct Results of West Springfield has boosted the Toy for Joy campaign with a $500 donation in honor of its former officer manager, the late Ruth LaBelle of Holyoke.

John P. Epstein, owner of the company, said LaBelle, who passed away six years ago this month, left an indelible mark on the company, its employees and its customers.

“She would just bring out things in people, she was very wise, very generous and she was giving of herself in many ways that went way beyond money,” Epstein said. “She looked out for people, she looked out for their well-being.”

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

The $500 donation that honors LaBelle is part of a recently-received batch tallying to $2,180. The total raised to date is $28.900. That leaves $121,100 to be raised.

Last year, the holiday toy campaign provided games, toys and gifts for nearly 20,000 children in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties.

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday.

Hasbro employees are among the volunteers who have been aiding the Salvation Army with registration of families and with distribution of the toys and gifts. Distribution of toys at the Greater Springfield Citadel started Tuesday and will continue through Friday.

For more information, call 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23. Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

In memory of Joseph Kolodziejski, $100
In memory of my husband Stanley Janas from wife Irene Janas, $25
In memory of Stella, Vincent and Philip Rzasa, love Julie, $25
In memory of Roger Martin and Fr Thomas Flower, $25
For my friend Mary who loved Christmas, love Bobbi, $25
In memory of my wife Theresa, Merry Christmas, $25
In memory of Earl Carter and Trixie, love FatBoy, $20
In memory of Sis and Phil Sheremeta from the kids, $10
From the Hansen family, $50
In loving memory of Lauretta “Toots” Scott and Raymond “Newt” Scott from their niece Sandy, $20
In honor of Cameron Jackson of Apex, NC, $10
Kathleen, $15
Phil and Felicia, $15
Merry Christmas, $25
In loving memory of Lauretta “Toots and Raymond “Newt” Scott, Ronnie, $30
Happy Holidays from Scott, Maureen, Ryan and Timothy Denault, $100
The members of American Legion Auxiliary Liberty Unit 430, $25
Philip, $25
In loving memory of our only siblings Anne and Tom who died last Christmas from Sandy and Pat, $25
For the memory of my brother Joe who loved Christmas, $25
In memory of my husband John Lenilko from Jean, $10
In memory of Dziadziu and Grandpa, love you both, Caitlin, $25
In loving memory of Michael Jester, $25
In memory of Josephine Gittles my wife from family, $10
In memory of my husband Mike from Vivian, $20
In loving memory of Bill, Eleanor, Billy, Arthur and Hanna, $30
In loving memory of my mother Cecelia from daughter Shirley, $20
Blessed Christmas to all from the Sullivan family, $100
In memory of Robert and Gloria Kemple who so loved Christmas, $200
God bless the children, $10
For Maxie, a fine lady and BFF to Chris Wargo and family, Auntie Susan, $10
Memory of Tessie Lapinski and all we can only hold dear in our hearts, Susan, $10
Brilliant sunsets for “Whoopa” Biziljs and Wargos, Auntie Susan, $10
Seasons to all from Susan Lapinski, $5
Anonymous, $25
Anonymous, $10
Janice, $150
Maurice, $20
Robert, $50
Edward and Marta, $100
In memory of B and R, Merry Christmas, $100
Just wanted to give back and put a smile on a kids face from Scott, $20
Merry Christmas to all, God Bless America from Gallerani Electric Co., Inc., $100
In memory of Ruth LaBelle who brought joy to all she met, from the employees of Direct Results, $500

RECEIVED, $2,180
TOTAL TO DATE, $28,900
STILL NEEDED, $121,100

Over $117,000 still needs to be raised by Dec. 23.

12/13/11 Springfield - Volunteers Angela Banton, left from Bethel AME Church in Springfield, and Kris Vazquez, right from Hasbro Company, fill a toy order at the Greater Springfield Salvation Army citadel on Pearl Street tuesday as part of the annual Toy For Joy program.

View full size

SPRINGFIELD – A small army of volunteers kept toy distribution for the Toy for Joy holiday campaign running smoothly this week at the Salvation Army’s Greater Springfield Citadel.

The volunteers, including about 25 from Hasbro Inc., scurried about like elves Tuesday inside the citadel’s gymnasium as they gathered toys for participating families at the rate of some 200 an hour.

“We are doing really well,” said Maj. Mary-Jo Perks, co-commander of the Greater Springfield Citadel.

Toy distribution here, which follows a pre-arranged schedule, continues through Friday.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

Hasbro is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

Many of the volunteers, including those in blue T-shirts proclaiming them to be members of Team Hasbro, have helped with toy distribution in the past.

“Everybody knows what they are doing,” said Hasbro employee Shawn Jones.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring more than 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday.

Other volunteers included of Lolitta Lowe and Angela Banton, of Bethel AME Church in Springfield.

Banton said she once relied on Toy for Joy to obtain toys, books and games for her foster children. “Ever since then I have always wanted to volunteer,” she said.

“It’s fun giving back to the community,” said Lowe. “You get to see all the smiling faces.”

Recent donations to Toy for Joy include $400 from Environmental Compliance Services and $330 from Ludlow Family Dentisty. Their donations are part of the largest single batch of donations to date which tally to $4,032.

Donations to date stand at $32,932, leaving $117,068 to be raised.

For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23.
Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

In loving memory of my Dad, Victor Nystrom who loved Christmas. Happy birthday. Love, VNL, $25
For the children, Merry Christmas, $100
In memory of Mitchell Bender, $250
In memory of Maurice W. Dickey and Marion M. Dickey, $25
In memory of Chrissy Bradway, $10
In loving memory of our sons Richard and Ray, you are missed, $25
Flip and Shirley, $10
From our grandchildren, $25
In memory of Marian, Bill and Sadie who made Christmas fun, $50
Danny and Kathleen, $10
In memory of Grandma Desautels and Popie Galvin. Love, Jolene and Jennifer, $20
In loving memory of Jeannine Reutt with love from husband Dan and family, $40
Pearl, $20
In lieu of holiday cards, wishing holiday joy and peace to all from Tom and Kathy, $50
For our grandson Hunter. Love, Nana, Pop and Aunt Ali, $25
Anonymous, $25
In memory of my two special angels. Love, Peg, $25
In honor of the memory of our grandfather Frank J. Orszulak. Love, Chris, Matt, Justin and Lindsey, $20
In memory of Rita A. Maruca. Love, Karen and George Shea, $100
In loving memory of Jim Kennedy and Annemarie Bredenbeck Kennedy from your family, $25
Raymond, $35
Never stop believing in Santa, $200
In loving memory of Colleen, Tara and Todd, $100
Anonymous, $25
In honor of the memory of our grandfather Russell Trombly. Love, Chris Matt, Justin and Lindsey, $20
In loving memory of my dear sisters Arline, Dorothy and Roberta, $10
God bless everyone for all they do for the children, $10
In memory of Jill Stefanik from CJB, $10
For Evelyn and Helge, $25
In loving memory of my husband Harold, $25
Merry Christmas Matt, Alyssa and Nico. Love, Noni and Grandpa, $5
In memory of deceased members of Mezzetti and DiLullo family and Moe Malanson, $5
In memory of Barbara and John Welch. Miss your smile, Barb. Dolly and Hugo, $5
In memory of Mary Shean, from Dolly and Hugo, $5
For my great, great grandson, $15
William, $200
Merry Christmas from Tiger, $15
In memory of Paul DeRaleau and Vivian Young, $50
In loving memory of Janice, Al, Jim and Whity Boudreau from Ma and the family, $10
Diane, Paul and Albert Verones, $20
In memory of Dick and Ray, $25
In loving memory of Dad, Sonny and Jeffery, $50
Please join us with a gift to help reach the very important $150,000 goal, from Parker and Betty Lou, $35
Merry Christmas from Dave and Marcia, $75
Loving memory of Victor and Jennie Paluck and Stephanie Collins, from Carly, Kevin and Dillon, $75
In memory of loved ones, $100
In memory of Bailey, the best dog in heaven, $25
Memory of family and friends from Mr. and Mrs. R.L. Sands, $25
Anonymous, $75
In memory of Edward Brine, husband and father, $50
Merry Christmas from Max, Evan and Elsa, $25
Merry Christmas kids, $10
In loving memory of Eleanor, Margaret and George Reilly, $25
Our seniors wishing needy children a warm and happy holiday from Foxes and Belles Seniors, $50
In memory of Mildred Winsel from her daughters, $20
In memory of my wonderful mother, Helen Turner, $50
Bondi Island survivors, the most loveable cats in the world, $20
John and Debbie, $25
Merry Christmas from Katherine, $20
Mary, $20
Believe in the magic of Christmas, $50
In loving memory of Art and Janet Kehoe from Kathy and Gary, $25
In loving memory of my cousin Margaret Claire Kehoe, $25
In thanksgiving for our grandchildren Gabby, Ryan, Leah and Ashlyn from Nana and Papa, $20
In memory of Dorothy Leisure, who loved Christmas, $15
In honor of my colleagues at Easthampton High School, $25
Andrews-Rankin, $50
In memory of Grandpa Dave and Nana Bridie, $100
In loving memory of Georgianna Marshall. Love, Carol, Molly and Lacy, $25
In memory of Natala Keefe from Picky, Patti, Bob, Collin and Jenna, $25
In memory of Harry and Claire Broderick. Love, your family, $10
Rachel, a cat who loved Christmas, $2
In memory of Maggie, our beautiful girl. We miss you, $5
Thanks for our beautiful grandkids, Abby, Kate, Quinn and Jack, $50
Keep Christ in Christmas, $100
In memory of my husband Michael and grandson Kenny. Love, Genia, $10
In memory of Mary and Benjamin Bartnicki, my parents. Love, Genia, $10
Sue and Bill Monks, a caring Longmeadow couple, $150
In loving memory of our daughter Allison. Love, Bud and Nancy, $10
Merry Christmas to all from Indian Orchard Masonic Lodge, $100
Merry Christmas from Owen and Nate, $25
Merry Christmas to all from Drs. Szarlan, Wegiel and Mitera, Ludlow Family Dentistry, $330
For a brighter holiday season from Environmental Compliance Services, $400

RECEIVED, $4,032
TOTAL TO DATE, $32,932
STILL NEEDED, $117,068

Toy for Joy donations tally to $36,727

View full size

SPRINGFIELD – Recent Toy for Joy donations include $100 in memory of a man who loved Christmas so much that he once donned a Santa suit in July.

That man was the late Alphonse Lussier, a Chicopee native and founder of General Saw and Lawnmower.

“How many guys dress up like Santa Claus in July?” asked Lussier’s son, Paul Lussier.

The younger Lussier still has picture of his father dressed as Santa that was published in the Springfield newspapers in 1951, about one year after he started up the family business on Dwight Street.

For whatever reason, the elder Lussier had opted to dress as Santa Claus while he was at work on that day. “He loved kids,” said Paul Lussier, when asked why his father was such a big fan of Christmas.

The elder Lussier, the man who would be Santa, died nearly 20 years ago and General Saw and Lawnmower is now on St. James Avenue.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign. Jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

The most recent batch of contributes also includes $500 from Con-Test Analytical Lab in East Longmeadow, which is among the area businesses that have been loyal supporters of the campaign for years.

Also, $25 was given in celebration of the life of David Woodman. Woodman was the 22-year-old Southwick man whose heart stopped as Boston police took him into custody in 2008 during a celebration of the Boston Celtics’ NBA Championship; his family established a charitable foundation in his name.

Donations to Toy for Joy currently stand at $36,727, leaving $113,273 to be raised.

Hasbro is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have been among the volunteers who have aided the Salvation Army with the registration of families and unloading and distribution of toys.

For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:
Thanks to all the servicemen and women who keep us free, Lucy and Dwight Shepard$25
In memory of Thomas and Jean Keeley, $25
From Taffy, TJ, Miss T and Toby, $50
In memory of Edie G, Margaret M and Joe R, $50
In memory of Paul. Love, Mom and Dad, $20
Anonymous, $50
Renee, $25
Don and Marcia, $50
Bonnie, $25
Michele, $25
From Dr. Frank Croke, nurse practitioner Elaine Skawski, Barbara, Melissa, Raquel, Janitsa and Leah, $300
Merry Christmas from Ted and Louise, $25
Chancha, Scot, Andrew, Sean, Kayla, Josh, Nick, Lizzy, Ashley, Jon, Eric, John, Maria, Kristie. Love, Pops and Grammy, $20
Merry Christmas Erin Finnola, Jake and Samantha, $40
From Hadliegh, Cooper, Bobby and May A, $50
Celebrating the life of David Woodman, $25
In loving memory of Garnett and Edith Stevens. Love, daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren, $10
In memory of Wilma, $50
Happy holidays. Love, Emme, Nora and Jenny, $20
From Missy and Pebbles, in memory of Buster, Oreo and Shaina, $25
In loving memory of Catherine and John Leahy who loved Christmas from your family, $50
In memory of Brownie-Gilbert and Nat, $25
In lieu of sending Christmas cards from Helen Fournier, $50
Anonymous, $50
In memory of Francis, Josephine and Ronald Stolpinsk, i$10
In our favorite memory of Ralph, Doris, Theresa and Dean, $25
John, $100
In memory of my best friend Alice Oliverio. Miss you every day, $10
From Greta, $25
In memory of Carly, $10
In loving memory of Beverly Baldyga. Miss you and love ya, Diane$20
Memory of loved ones, $25
Merry Christmas from Ruder, Zuder and gang, $25
In memory of Raymond L. Dupre, deeply missed by his family, $20
From Jim, Kate, Marykate, Jamie and Libby Fleming, $200
Barbara, our little angel. Merry Christmas. Love, Mom and Dad, Roy and Steve, $20
In memory of Vi Robert and Ceil Krupa, $40
In memory of my mother Niobe Diamond. $25
In loving memory of Sophia and George Caroz, i$100
In memory of Victor and Laura Bleau, $100
Anonymous,$150
Love and peace, Norma and Bernie, $200
In memory of Charles$5
In loving memory of Skip Foresti, Lorraine, Rebecca and Lisa$25
In memory of my husband Leonard from Shirley and family$20
To share with others during this season of giving$50
Merry Christmas EK$20
For the children, Carl and Judy$100
In memory of a loving grandmother, James and Katie$25
In loving memory of George W. from wife and family$20
In memory of Mary E. Stephens, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother$20
In loving memory of Edward A. Pratt$100
In loving memory of grandparents Josephine Lesniak and Stanley and Dorothy Gruszcynski from Tina$15
In memory of Papa Smitty from grandchildren Ethan and Lilah$15
Happy holidays, Grady, Owen, John, Isabella and Emily$30
In memory of Thomas Dubour, love Judy, children and grandchildren$50
Mark$100
Erwin and Rita$25
In loving memory of Dad, Mom, Brenda, RJ and Jack. Love, John and Donna$25
In memory of Cosimo and Jennie Baggetta and George, Jane and Donna Carpenter. Love, Albert and Beverly$50
In memory of beloved family members, PLP$50
MIn memory of my mother and father, Francis and Marcella Moran, from Jim and Maureen Moran, $100
In loving memory of my husband Delt, Betty Ann Learned, $25
In loving memory of my husband Randolph Robinson and son-in-law Sonny Tetreault, $25
Peace on earth, good will toward men, $50
Patricia and David, $60
Accu Finish Orthodontic Lab, $25
In loving memory of our Dad, Alphonse (Santa Claus) Lussier. Love, Paul and Lorraine$, 100
Happy holidays to children from Con-Test employees, $500

RECEIVED $3,795
TOTAL TO DATE $36,727
STILL NEEDED $113,273

Naerly $110,000 is needed to meet the $150,000 goal by Dec. 23.

View full size

SPRINGFIELD – Proceeds from Chicopee’s Selser Memorial School’s dress-down days on Fridays will help provide toys, games and books to needy children this holiday season through Toy for Joy.

The school’s $100 contribution is among the latest listed for the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign. Today’s list of donations also includes $100 contributions from M.L. Schmitt Inc., of Springfield and Stephen Phifer Contractors, of Brimfield. School and workplace groups are among some of the leading community organizations which help drive the Toy for Joy fund each year.

“Without the good work of school children across the region and the efforts by businesses and workplace groups, Toy for Joy would not be the success it is,” said Cynthia G. Simison, managing editor of The Republican.

Jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season. Donations to date stand at $40,507, leaving $109,493 to be raised in the next week.

Toy distribution at the Greater Springfield Citadel on Pearl Street ended on Friday. Toy for Joy last year brought smiles to the faces of nearly 20,000 children in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties.

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have been among the volunteers who have aided the Salvation Army with registration of families and distribution of the toys and gifts. For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:
In loving memory of our parents Eunice and George Ross and Barbara and Jim Fitzgibbon, $50
In loving memory of Joe, Betty and Ronnie Boyer and Joe Orlando from Marie and Dennis, $10
In memory of our deceased friends, Vickie, Linda, Tony, Nancy, Heidi, Maureen, Claudia, Carl, Roger, Sully, Jim and Donna from Marie and Dennis, $10
In appreciation of our two beautiful and healthy grandchildren, Madeleine and Benjamin from Grammy Marie and Grampa Dennis, $10
In loving memory of my husband Don and my mother “Babe”, $100
In memory of deceased family members, $25
Happy birthday to Rose Clark from Chris and Claude Ward-Horner, $25
In memory of Janice Ward-Horner and Osmond Ward-Horner, $25
Happy birthday to Rolande from Chris and Claude Ward-Horner, $25
Happy Birthday to Florinda Peck from Chris and Claude Ward-Horner, $25
In memory of Papa Jim Tierney honoring his 13 grandchildren, $100
In memory of those not with us, but not forgotten, $25
In memory of Mom, $25
Thank you holy spirit for prayers answered. Merry Christmas to all, MZ and DJZ, $25
To give thanks for my seven beautiful grandchildren, $10
In honor of my greatest gift, my mother. I love you so much, Dana, $10
In memory of deceased family members, $20
Deceased members of Casey and Noel families, $20
In memory of Philip Mirarchi, Hugo and Rose Sedran and Roger Sedran, $50
In memory of Richard E. Mastey. Love, Craig, Darlene, Matt and Brett Staples, $25
In memory of Leo, $25
In memory of Grandma and Grandpa Fusco from the Cirellis, $20
The JCC Girls with grandmother faces, $70
For some child, $20
With love Benjamin, Jillian, Michael and Gianna, $50
Merry Christmas from Jim, Judy, Jeff, Chris, Kim and Nick, $150
In loving memory of Alexander and Joan Pannetti, $25
In memory of Mom, Dad and Bob, $25
In memory of Dave, Lois, Sou Ling and Barney, $25
In loving memory of Beverly S. Krok, $50
Peace, hope and joy this Christmas and New Year’s season, $20
Linnea and Rich, $25
In memory of Duncan, he loved Christmas morning the best, $100
In memory of deceased family and friends, love MaryJo and Tommy, $50
In loving memory of the Hassapelis and Lyman families, $50
Ken and Barb, $25
Merry Christmas and peace to all from Bob and Maryellen, $50
In loving memory of Joe Amaral and Theresa Borsari, $50
In celebration of our grandson David’s 6th birthday, Dec. 15. Love, Grandma and Grandpa, $50
Peace and love to all, $25
In memory of my husband Ernie. Miss you always, Lou, $10
In memory of husband Buddy Blum from Sheila, $25
Merry Christmas to all from Richard and Maryann, $50
In memory of our parents, Sue and Pierre, $25
Remembering our little boys, Kristofer and Andrew, with love from Mom, Dad, Jen and our new little Kristofer, $100
Merry Christmas Alexa, Evan and Ben, $100
Anonymous, $50
Ron and Barbara, $50
In loving memory of Nana and Pop from all your family, $15
Thank you St. Jude for all your help, Helen O’C, $10
Anonymous, $20
Merry Christmas from David, Theresa, Patrick and Liam, $25
Thomas, $25
In memory of Frank, Bruce and Scott, $10
In honor of Cassie and Cailee from Ama and Papa, $25
Gail, $20
In loving memory of my John, $10
For Daddy, who loved all animals and rescued many from Pat, $50
In memory of Malcom, Missy and Mindy, $200
In loving memory of Dad, Niles, Aunt Dot, Reggie and Shar-dei, love Liz, $15
In loving memory of Ann Marie Martin, Dec. 17, 1966-Aug. 22, 1979. Mom, Dad, Terry, Eileen and John Jr., $25
Anonymous, $30
Sandy and I wish all children happiness in their lives, from Phil and Sandy, $100
In memory of Nonzel and Happer, $25
Merry Christmas from Robert and Sandra, $15
In memory of Jennie Rubis and Paul R. Page, $200
In loving memory of my husband Joseph Wostena Jr from wife Blanche, $20
In memory of our dogs, Oliver, Ricky, Bebe and Lucy from Maryann Wostena, $20
In loving memory of Sophie and Michael Piswczyk, Helen and Joseph Wostena Sr. from grandson Michael, $30
In memory of Emile and Ginny Grenier, missing you much at Christmastime, love Sheila and Phil, Meaghan, Dominic and Gino, $20
In loving memory of Noni and Ben, Merry Christmas in heaven. Love, Sheila, Phil, Meaghan, Dominic and Gino, $20
In loving memory of all family and friends that we have lost. Love, Sheila and Phil Serra, $20
Happy Holidays to our little friends from your big friends at “Grace’s Places”, $250
Merry Christmas in memory of Fluffy Ruffles, $100
In memory of Tom and Agnes Kelly from Bob and Pat, $100
In memory of Frank and Rosalie Pouliot from Bob and Pat, $100
A safer 2012 for everybody from Accu Finish Orthodontic Lab, $25
George and Denise, $25
Stephen Phifer Contractors Inc., $100
Merry Christmas from Selser Memorial School, Chicopee, $100
M.L. Schmitt, Inc., $100

RECEIVED, $3,780
TOTAL TO DATE, $40,507
STILL NEEDED, $109,493

More than $104,000 is still needed to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23.

Mark M. Murray / The Republican12//15/11 Chicopee - Jan Piepul, owner of Piepuls Camera Center on Center Street, recently gave a check to the Toy for Joy fund.

View full size

SPRINGFIELD – Jan Piepul, of Piepul’s Camera Center in Chicopee, thought of an old friend and mentor as he wrote out a $600 donation to Toy for Joy this year.

The message on the coupon accompanying Piepul’s contribution, reads: “In Memory of Bill Bertoia.”

Bertoia, once an appraiser for the PBS series, “Antique Roadshow,” first approached Piepul for professional advice years ago, and the two then became fast friends.

“He helped me a lot in business and in life,” Piepul said of Bertoia, who died in 2003 at age 52.

Piepul said he donates to various charities every year, and given the state of the economy, decided that Toy for Joy would be a wise choice.

“Being a locally-owned business, I like to give back to the community where it is needed,” Piepul said.

Piepul’s, a fixture for area photographers, has been in business for 57 years.

Also among the donors listed today are the law offices of Mark E. Salomone. Borrowing from their advertising campaign, the Salamone law firm once again “proved (they) mean business” when it comes to Toy for Joy. The law firm donated $446 this year.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

Donations to date tally to $45,349, leaving $104,651 to be raised.

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have also been among the volunteers who have aided the Salvation Army with registration of families and distribution of the toys and gifts.

For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through noon on Dec. 23.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

In loving memory of my Dad Sebastiano Valenti, $50
In memory of Onyx, $10
Merry Christmas from the Delaney-Hildreth grandchildren, $40
In loving memory of William E. Meaney from Lil, Carol and Kathy, $25
In memory of Eileen Claffey, $25
In memory of my mom, Margaret Rief, who made our Christmases special from Sharon and Peter, $50
In loving memory of Ann Marie Neffinger, Joe and Lori, $30
Peace to all, Sandra, $25
In loving memory of my parents, Con and Mary Buckley, Peg, $25
In loving memory of my wife Fran who loved kids and Christmas from Bob, $50
In memory of our son Jonathan from Ray and Kris, $25
In memory of Paul and Steve Caron, $20
In loving memory of Anna and Walter Seifert, $20
Carol and Togi, $25
In loving memory of my parents, Dan and Eileen Sullivan, $20
In thanks for God’s blessings, $25
In memory of Dr. John Medrek, $50
The Wychowski family, $25
In loving memory of our grandson Luke, Grammie and Grampie, $100
In loving memory of Hilda Nilson and Eugene O’Neil, $30
In memory of Sophie and Marie, $35
In memory of Wendy whose greatest love was little children, $25
In loving memory of deceased members of the Buckley and Hyland families, $50
In memory of Art from Ginny, $25
In memory of Jill Stefanik who is dearly missed. Love, Mom and Dad, $25
Merry Christmas, $20
In honor of Kylie Crowley, Taryn Crowley and Tanner Blake, $30
In loving memory of my daughter Christine Rivela, Del Strycharz, $25
In memory of Marion and William Brodie from Obie, $50
Merry Christmas to all, RSBTK, $100
Love and miss you Dan, Dad, $50
In loving memory of Andrew Manzi. You are sadly missed, $10
In loving memory of the Lavelle, Sieron and Skorka families, $25
Merry Christmas from Glenn and Sandra, $25
In loving memory of my husband Bruce who I miss so much everyday, $25
In loving memory of our parents, Edward and Anna Bushaw, $25
In loving memory of Noel and Joe Fortier and Lisa Meade. Always in my thoughts, $15
Thanks Noni and Grandpa for all you do, Nico, Matt and Alyssa, $5
In loving memory of uncle Moe from the Nolfis, $5
In loving memory of Fran and Bob Ferrara, Jan, Brian and Nico, $5
In loving memory of Marge Nolfi. We miss you. Love, Brian, Janice and Nico, $5
In memory of Fred and Reid, $30
Happy holidays from Stores 5, 14 and 2, $150
In memory of Joseph and Margaret Ambrose from their daughters, $20
In loving memory of Maurice and Lew, our dads and Laurel’s siblings Linda and Peter, $50
In memory of Suzanne Lynn Beauchimin, $25
In memory of our precious daughter Linda Gaudette. Love, Mom and Dad, $10
In memory of Poppy, Kelly, Kate, Scott and Patrick, $50
In memory of Grandma, Kelly, Kate, Scott and Patrick, $50
In memory of Rob, Bobby and the Blanchot family, $20
In memory of deceased members of the Remy, Morris and Gardiner families from Janice, $25
In memory of our beloved parents and grandparents, $50
Jonz and Ed Fleming, $100
Thank you dear Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Jude for prayers answered from Sandra and Richard, $15
In memory of my dad, $25
Marion, $30
In memory of my husband Joe, $25
In memory of Mike and Elinore Dunphy, Elizabeth Dunphy, $50
In memory of Donald J Milbier Jr, Lori Davis Milbier, $50
To all my loved ones celebrating Christmas in heaven. Love, Bette Ann, $50
In loving memory of our great grandparents. Love, Ashley, Christopher, Rob and Sam, $20
In loving memory of Erin O’Neil, love Babci, $10
Merry Christmas from the Sbalbi family, $20
Thank you St. Anthony and St. Jude, JC, $20
In loving memory of Bill Pfau, Kathy, Larry, Kaitlyn, Allison and Nicole, $50
Keep the Christmas spirit in your heart every day. Merry Christmas from John and Tanya, $25
A blessed Christmas to family and friends from Teresa and James, $25
Better to give than to receive, FD, $25
In memory of loved ones, R and JC, $25
Happy holidays from Longmeadow High School Special Education Department, $70
Max, $25
Memory of William Seaver. Love, Dave and Lori, $20
Memory of Rose, Al and Bob Chartier. Love, Lori and Dave, $20
In memory of Poppy Frank, $10
In loving memory of Darry and Kyla, $25
In memory of all service men past and present from Leonard F Gates Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5361, $100
In memory of Kristine and Mark Delaney, $100
In loving memory of my parents Helen and Jerry Buendo, $20
Happy holidays from Joan, $25
In loving memory of my son William J. Whyte, $25
In memory of Maurice and Kathleen Murphy from their family, $50
In memory of many, Pat and Martin, $25
Merry Christmas from Peter and Madeline, $100
In memory of Kevin C. Britten, $50
Anonymous, $100
In honor of Kevin, Katie, Nikki, Alli and Erin from grandparents, $50
In memory of Amber and Betsy, two faithful friends, $25
In loving memory of Mike and Gerry Garrity, $20
In loving memory of my husband Raymond Sabourin Sr. Love, Edna, $20
Anonymous, $25
In loving memory of Leo P. Rioux from wife and two daughters, $15
In loving memory of Arthur and Anne Kelliher from their two daughters, $15
You are missed Dad and Scott, love Donna and Jerry, $25
In loving memory of Mr and Mrs George McDiarmid from great grandson Tyler, $75
In memory of Lillian Shea, $15
In memory of our good friend Ray Mulcahy, $25
Happy Holidays, thank you for the blessings of wonderful neighbors from Donna, $20
Thank you St. Jude for favors granted, Joni Smith, $20
In memory of my Mom, Blanche E. Roberts, Jan. 25, 1907-Sept. 9, 2001. So dearly loved, so sadly missed, Joni, $30
In memory of my precious son, Tim Smith, Oct. 18, 1960-Nov. 30, 1980. All my love, Mom, $30
In memory of my Dad, Michael A. Roberts, May 22, 1907-June 6, 1985, from Joni, $30
In memory of Tiger, Tasha, Bandit, Candy, Nero, Gypsy, Buffy, Buford, Smitty, Missy and Skeeter, $30
Thank you St. Anthony for favors granted, $20
In memory of Freddie Facchini, $20
Jesus is the reason for the season, $25
In memory of Two Toms, Win and Bill Jr. from W.J. Quinn Co., $100
In memory of Bill Bertoia, from Piepul’s Camera Center, $600
In memory of Al, Joan and John Morassi, $100
Happy holidays from the law offices of Mark E. Salomone, $446

RECEIVED, $4,842
TOTAL TO DATE, $45,349
STILL NEEDED, $104,651

Here is a list of major municipal meetings for the coming week: Agawam Mon.- School Committee, 5:30 p.m., Agawam Junior High School, at 1305 Springfield St. City Council, 7 p.m., Doering School. Amherst Tues.- Public Transportation and Bicycle Committee, 4 p.m., Town Hall. Thu.- Zoning Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall. Chicopee Mon.-License Committee, 6:30 p.m., City Hall....

Republican file photoHolyoke Mayor Elaine Pluta and her grandson Deegan, lower right corner, flip the switch to light the Christmas tree in front of Holyoke City Hall.

Here is a list of major municipal meetings for the coming week:

Agawam

Mon.- School Committee, 5:30 p.m., Agawam Junior High School, at 1305 Springfield St.

City Council, 7 p.m., Doering School.

Amherst

Tues.- Public Transportation and Bicycle Committee, 4 p.m., Town Hall.

Thu.- Zoning Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall.

Chicopee

Mon.-License Committee, 6:30 p.m., City Hall.

Water Commission, 6 p.m., Baskin Drive.

Tues.-City Council, 7:15 p.m., City Hall.

Wed.- School Committee, 7 p.m., 180 Broadway.

Board of Assessors, 10 a.m., City Hall.


East Longmeadow

Mon.- School Committee, 7 p.m., School Committee meeting room.

Tues.- Board of Assessor’s, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall.

Easthampton

Mon.- School Building Committee, 6:30 p.m., 50 Payson Ave.

Wed.- Retirement Board, 10: 30 a.m., 199 Northampton St.

Board of Assessors, 5:30 p.m., Payson Ave.

City Council, 6 p.m., 50 Payson Ave.

Greenfield

Mon.- Community Relations Committee, 6:30 p.m., 321 High St.

Appointment and Ordinance Committee, 7 p.m., 14 Court St.

Tues.- Greenfield Retirement Board, 4 p.m., 14 Court Square.

Board of License Commissioners, 6 p.m., 14 Court Square.

School Building Committee, 6:30 p.m., Greenfield Public Library.

Hadley

Tues.- Board of Health, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

Planning Board, 7 p.m., Senior Center.

Wed.- Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

Hatfield

Tues.- Library Building Committee, 6 p.m., Dickinson Memorial Building.

Cable Advisory Committee, 6 p.m., Smith Academy.

Wed.- Zoning Board of Appeals, 9 a.m., Memorial Town Hall.

Assessors, 5:30 p.m., Memorial Town Hall.

Housing Authority, 6:30 p.m., Capawonk.

Holyoke

Mon.- Morgan School Council, 3:45 p.m., Morgan School, 587 South Summer St.

Board of Public Works, 5:30 p.m., Department of Public Works, 63 Canal St.

Sewer Commission, 5:30 p.m., Department of Public Works, 63 Canal St.

School Committee, 6:15 p.m., Dean Technical High School, 1045 Main St., Fifield Community Room.

City Council Finance Committee, 6:30 p.m., City Hall, City Council Chambers.

Tues.- City Council, 7:30 p.m., City Hall, City Council Chambers.

Longmeadow

Mon.- Select Board, 7 p.m., Police Department.

Wed.- Zoning Board of Appeals, 7:30 p.m., Police Department.

Monson

Mon.- Keep Homestead Museum Committee, 7 p.m., 29 Thompson St.

Northampton

Mon.- Historical Commission, 5:30 p.m., City Hall.

Tues.- Transportation and Parking Commission, 4 p.m., Council Chambers.

Smith Vocational High School Board of Trustees, 5 p.m., Smith Vocational High School.

Tree Committee, 6:30 p.m., 125 Locust St.

Wed.- Youth Commission, 7 p.m., City Hall.

Palmer

Mon.- Town Council, 6:30 p.m., town manager interview, Town Building.

Warren

Wed.- Sewer Commissioners, 8 a.m., Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Warren Water District, 1 p.m., 20 Old West Brookfield Road.

West Springfield

Mon.- Public Safety Commission, 5:15 p.m., municipal building.

Planning and Construction Committee, 7 p.m., municipal building.

Town Council, 7 p.m., municipal building.

Tues.- Board of Library Trustees, 7 p.m., West Springfield Public Library.

Wed.- Planning Board, 7 p.m., municipal building.

Some $92,175 still needs to be raised to make the $150,000 goal by Dec. 23

Photo by Dave Roback / The RepublicanClifford M. Noreen, president of Babson Capital Management, left and Sue Moore, chief administrative officer, stand near the Christmas tree in Tower Square. Babson Capital Management donated $11,500 to the Toy for Joy Fund.

SPRINGFIELD – Babson Capital Management clearly knows the importance of investing in the community.

Employees at the firm teamed up with company leadership this holiday to provide Toy for Joy with its biggest single boost this season with checks totaling $11,500.

“On behalf of Babson Capital, we are pleased to make this donation to help children and families in need in our community during this holiday season,” said Cliff M. Noreen, president of Babson Capital.

“We are very proud of our employees who stepped up and contributed to the Toy For Joy Fund and the many other charitable events they participate in throughout the year,” he said. “The holiday season really is about children and we commend the Springfield Republican and the salvation Army for their outstanding effort again this year.”

Babson Capital Management is a subsidiary of the Mass Mutual Financial Group.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

Babson Capital Management’s generous donation is part of $12,476 in recent donations coming into Toy for Joy.

The total raised to date is $57,825, leaving $92,175 to be raised.

View full size

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have been among the volunteers who aid the Salvation Army with registration of families and with distribution of the toys and gifts.

For more information, call 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

Happy Holidays from Babson Capital Management, $11,500

In memory of Tony, Mary and Johnny McGreal, $25

In loving memory of Bill LaRochelle, $100

Thank you St. Jude from Scott, $25

In loving memory of Natalie Kennedy, love your granddaughter Judi, $10

In memory of Gina and Rene, we love you, $50

In memory of Marge Turek, $10

In loving memory of Mario F. Siano and Henry J. Chapdelaine from Brian and Eric, $25

For my sisters Corrien and Felicia Pierce who passed away, $10

Merry Christmas to all children, $25

In memory of Neil Croteau, $20

Thank you St. Jude and Mother Mary from Denise, $10

In honor of my Tree Trim pals, Sara, Nancy, Karen, Peter, Mike, Bill and Jim from Barb, $25

In memory of my dear pal Dolly from Bara, $25

For Rosa, Emily, Mary and Noel Clayton from Mary P., $30

In memory of Al Brookes, love Jim and Sue, $20

In honor of Emily and Michael, $36

In loving memory of Chris, $100

John Butova, you are loved and missed, love Mom, Dad, Corinne and Cam, $25

For our grandkids Emma, Nathan and Olivia, $25

In loving memory of my brother Dennis, from Taylor and Geri, $50

In memory of Dad Walter, husband Paul and brother David, love you, $25

Merry Christmas from Luke and Mac, $25

In memory of Rose Nash and Lenore Roberts, $25

In memory of Donald Couchon, Mary Ann Salmen, Mary Ware and Evelyn Williams, $10

Thank you St. Jude for intentions granted, JP, $10

In memory of “Duffy” Atkins, $25

Thank you ST. Jude, BL, $50

In memory of Glenn Peter Lacey, $25

Memory of Michael Santana, $20

In memory of my brothers and my sisters from Eleanor, $25

Muriel, $25

Anonymous, $10

Merry Christmas from Lucas Letendre, Sacramento, CA, 2 years old, $25

For Joe Conway and Mary Brown, love Chris, $20

Mary, $15

Merry Christmas to the kids from the Boyer family, $10

The Youngs of Agawam, $20

Merry Christmas to all the broken hearts, his love is with you, $25

In loving memory of Carl, Barbara and Nancy Sullivan from Alberta, $25

RECEIVED, $12,476
TOTAL TO DATE, $57,825
STILL NEEDED, $92,175

None of the 27 district courts in the audit verified documentation at an applicant's initial screening, the 1st of 3 stages of verification.

File photo | The RepublicanMassachusetts State Auditor Suzanne Bump

BOSTON – Probation officials in Massachusetts have approved state-paid lawyers for people without following state law and first verifying that people are poor and unable to pay for their own lawyer, the state auditor said.

During a recent fiscal year, the state spent at least $47.9 million in legal counsel services for criminal defendants at 27 district courts without substantiating their claims of being indigent, according to a report issued on Monday by Auditor Suzanne M. Bump.

“This finding is another element in the sorry legacy of misplaced priorities at the office of the commissioner of probation,” Bump said in a statement.

Attorney General Martha M. Coakley has said her office has an active and ongoing investigation that recently resulted in indictments against the former probation commissioner.

In September, Coakley announced indictments of former commissioner John J. O’Brien, and the chief of staff to former state Treasurer Timothy P. Cahill, on charges they conspired to organize a campaign fundraiser for Cahill in 2005 in exchange for getting O'Brien's wife a job at the state Lottery.

In response to the audit, probation officials said that they have agreements with the state Department of Transitional Assistance and the state Department of Revenue to allow probation to gain electronic access to data to increase efficiency of verification.

Ronald P. Corbett, appointed earlier this year as acting probation commissioner, said that training had been held and a memo had been issued for probation officers on the importance of verifying the income of people who say they are too poor to fund their own lawyer, the audit said.

Corbett also launched an internal review and study on this issue.

The probation department issued a statement Monday, saying Corbett has placed a high priority on improving the verification process.

A review at 27 district courts, including those in Greenfield, Holyoke, Springfield and Westfield, found the courts were violating verification laws, rules, and regulations for the indigent, before Corbett was appointed, Bump said.

None of the 27 courts verified documentation at an applicant’s initial screening, the first of three stages of verification, she said.
Auditor Bump finds $47.9 million in unverified public counsel expenditures

In a sample of cases from these courts, only 1.7 percent contained adequate documentation that court officials performed the required 60-day indigence reassessment, and only 0.8 percent had any evidence that the required six-month reassessment had been conducted, according to Bump.

Under state law, chief probation officers at each court, or their designees, are responsible for verifying claims of poor people, Bump said in her audit.

Some court officials said that they lack the staff needed for the verifications, the audit said. Absent an electronic system to verify records, court officials also said that they would have to submit paperwork to state agencies, which would take time and delay the judicial process.

The state Committee on Public Counsel Services provides lawyers for the poor in both criminal and civil cases, but the state Office of the Commissioner of Probation is responsible for verifying that a person claiming to be indigent meets the definition established by the state Supreme Judicial Court, Bump said. Assessments are used to determine if people are eligible for free legal services, able to contribute to their cost, or able to pay for their own lawyers.

Bump's office looked at the files of 119 people who received court-appointed lawyers during a recent fiscal year.

Last year, an independent investigator released a report that showed state legislators have used probation as a patronage haven. Legislators passed a law this year to improve hiring practices for court and probation officers.
State Audit News Release December 19, 2011

The marks the 89th season for Toy for Joy

View full size

SPRINGFIELD – The need for help is clearly great out there; Toy for Joy is aiding some 600 more Greater Springfield families that it did last year.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

The number of Greater Springfield families seeking help is at 4,410, said Maj. Thomas E. Perks, cocommander of the Greater Springfield Salvation Army Citadel, adding that those families represent 17,640 children.

Recent donations include $850 from Hampden County Physicians Associates.

Current donations tally to $62,392, leaving $87,608 to be raised.

Salvation Army units in Holyoke, Westfield, Northampton and Greenfield also report average or slightly higher numbers than last year, Perks said.

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have been among the volunteers who have aided the Salvation Army with the registration of families and distribution of the toys and gifts.


For more information, call 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102.

Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through Dec. 23.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:
In loving memory of Joseph and Claire Hopkins from Jane and Bill, $200
In honor of the best student at Thornton Burgess School, Beth Dunsmoor, $100
In gratitude for blessing, $100
In memory of Max and Gen Roos and Gino and Anita Bacchiocchi, $100
Merry Christmas from Skip and Jane, $50
In memory of Shane, love Mom, $50
In loving memory of my parents Frank and Peg Walker, $100
In lieu of office gifts, NUCE Training Windsor, $100
Thanks Toy for Joy, in memory of Ronnie, Kaz and Ann, $50
Merry Christmas Jace, Sean, Kate and Alex from Gram and Grampa F, $40
For Elizabeth with love from Grandma and Grandpa Kelleher, $50
Happy Holidays to a great staff, Norma, $50
Happy Holidays from Marianne and Bruce, $100
In memory of Gramma and Grampa and Ninnie and Frank Noni from Alyson and Christopher Mastrangelo, $30
For Mom, who always made Christmas special from Linda, $200
In memory of our parents, Ruth and Richard, Rita and Dennis, love Rich and Denise, $25
Love you and miss you Skippy, $20
Happy Birthday Jesus, $200
In memory of Grandma and Grandpa Berger and Memere and Pepere Nadeau, $50
In the name of Carol Rigali and family, Merry Christmas, $50
In the name of Sue and Tim Mulhern and family, Merry Christmas, $80
In the name of Eileen and Peter Sullivan and family, Merry Christmas, $80
In the name of Maria and Ed O’Leary, Merry Christmas, $80
Merry Christmas, $25
In loving memory of our deceased family members, $20
In loving memory of Mary Rae MacFarland from Keith and Jo, $25
In celebration of God’s blessings, $100
In memory of our parents from Dave and Diane, $100
In memory of Patrick, Catherine, Thomas, June, Harry and Helen, love Jim and Nancy, $100
In loving memory of Poppy, dearly missed this Christmas, love the O’Heir family, $25
In loving memory of Gramma, Grampa, Pebby and Auntie Helen, Merry Christmas, love the O’Heir family, $25
In loving memory of Raymond Kotfila and Brianna Donovan, $100
In memory of William Schmidt, $100
In loving memory of Noni from Bobeen, $25
In memory of Brittany, love Aunty Maureen, $25
In honor of our grandchildren, Samuel, Madeline, Eliza and Henry Fialky, $100
Merry Christmas Marissa, Gabby, Audrey, Bella, Maya and Layoh Rodriguez, $51.50
Christmas blessings for all, $10
To St. Anthony for prayers answered, KR, $10
Anonymous, $20.50
Makayla Caron and Makenzie Caron, daughters of Mikey Caron, $20
RBWS, $10
Anonymous, $10
In loving memory of Muffin, $10
In memory of my good friend Ben Larkin from Gary Mayer, $100
Sullivan, Keating and Moran Insurance Agency of Springfield, Inc., $250
On behalf of Abide, Inc. employees, Merry Christmas, $300
In lieu of swapping gifts, from Aqua Babes of Ludlow Boys and Girls Club, $110
Happy Holidays from Phylogic Healthcare employees, $140
Happy Holidays and best wishes for a wonderful year from Hampden County Physician Associates, $850

RECEIVED, $4,567
TOTAL TO DATE, $62,392
STILL NEEDED, $87,608

The marks Toy for joy's 89th season.

Michael Gordon / The RepublicanDecember 19, 2011 - Springfield - Students at the Marcus Kiley Middle School collected toys and cash for the Toy for Joy campaign. Four of the students in front are from left: Vincent Manning, Gilles Laterreur, Lindsay Pepe and Davion Hale, all 12. Grownups behind them from left: Maj. Thomas D. Perks and Linda-Jo Perks, co-commanders of the Greater Springfield Salvation Army Citadel on Pearl Street, Kiley co-principals Alyson J. Lingsch and Kenneth R. Luce, para professional Austria Gonzalez and teachers Cheri Drapeau and Paula Donais.

View full size

SPRINGFIELD - The seventh-graders at Kiley Middle School dug deep this season and helped bolster the Toy for Joy campaign with a donation of $200.

English teacher Paula Donais says her students brought in money, and in some cases, toys, to support the holiday toy campaign. Some of the money was also raised in a raffle, she said.

“They love getting involved in the community,” Donais said.

Donais and her students presented their donation to Toy for Joy via Maj. Thomas E. Perks, co-commander of the Salvation Army’s Greater Springfield Citadel. Perks said he was impressed with the students’ willingness to give of themselves.

“Several of them said (they donated to Toy for Joy) so they could help out people who didn’t have any hope, “ Perks said. “They personally wanted to make a difference.”

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Dec. 23 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

Today’s list of donations include $500 contributions from the Butler Corp, of Ludlow, and from the membership of United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1459, $300 from the employees of Heatbath in Indian Orchard and $350 from the Connecticut Valley Artesian Well Co. Donations to date tally $71,152, leaving $78,848 to be raised by Friday’s deadline.


Perks stressed that money raised in the campaign pays for the costs of the toys distributed this season.

“If we don’t get the money that’s a big bill we are sitting on,” Perks said. “If folks just give what they can, that will make a huge difference and I believe we can make it.”

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, donating some of the toys which were distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have also been among the volunteers who have aided the Salvation Army with registration of families and with distribution of the toys and gifts.

For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through noon on Friday.
Here’s a list of the latest contributors:
Merry Christmas from Jack, Ricky, Caroline, Tommy, Katie and Emily, $100
For the miracle of my granddaughter Taylor Wellesley Ascione. Love, Rose, $10
In honor of Dad F, Gram and Aunts Elsie, Grace and Erna, $50
Anonymous, $25
In loving memory of my husband Michael J. Lewison from Lillian, $25
For Miss Bailey and Mr. Checkers, $25
In thanksgiving for prayers answered and blessings received, LAC, $10
Naveen and Rekha, $40
In loving memory of Henrietta Ungewitter. Love, Linda and Joe, $10
In loving memory of Alice King. Love, Linda and Anthony, $10
In loving memory of Grace Pashko. Love, Joe and Linda, $10
In memory of our beloved son Toby, $100
In memory of Big H and John, $25
In memory of Coach Ken, $25
Thank you St. Jude for favors granted, Honey, $30
Merry Christmas from Skywalker, $25
Judy and Gene, $25
In memory of our brother Raymond Derminio from Janet and David, $20
Truly grateful for good friends from Evelyn, $10
In loving memory of W. Robert McDonald, $50
Lad and Bernie, $20
Merry Christmas Brian, Ann Marie and Sammie, $250
Merry Christmas Stephanie from Pittsfield and Jessica from Turrance, CA, $25
Walter, $10
In loving memory of our parents from Jean and Bill, $25
In loving memory of Dot, Lettuce and Baby Alex, $100
In honor of the dedicated staff of D’Amour Library, $100
In memory of Grandpa Dale, love Sarah, $20
Muriel, $100
Merry Christmas Mackenzie, Alexa, Kyle ,Kaylyn, Christopher, Colby and Ronan, $25
Anonymous, $100
In memory of Rick. Love, Cindy Stephen, Kevin and Sharon, $20
Joyous holiday wished, Reina, Nikki, Emmy Louise and Beeger, $50
Merry Christmas, St. Therese of the Little Flower Prayer Group, $25
For the children from Lily, Julia and Gram, $25
In loving memory of the Kenyon family, past and present, Marylou, $10
Hey Santa, hope you’re watching. Erin and Finnola, $25
In memory of the deceased members of the Bouchard and Johnson families from Bill and Jackie Johnson, $25
Helen, $5
Merry Christmas Grandma and Grandpa. Love, Mary, Ron, Mike and Kat, $50
In memory of Charles Dusek and Kenneth Brown, $25
Happy holidays, in memory of the O’Neills and the Patons, $100
Merry Christmas Kelsey, Kendra, Cecilia and Tom, $25
Merry Christmas Mom and Dad from Aidan, $20
In memory of Philip R and John P Dion, $200
Merry Christmas from Barbara and John, $200
In loving memory of Mary Stilwell and Louise Beachell, $10
In loving memory of Samuel and Caroline Gledhill who loved all children and Christmas, $10
Deb and George Skovera, $25
In loving memory of Michael Schiavina and his parents, Anne and Caesar Schiavina. Loved and missed by Kathy, Mark and Maura, $100
In memory of Meme, Mom and Dad. Love, Barbara, $40
Welcome home to all our soldiers. Merry Christmas to all, Dick and Darlene, $50
In loving memory of Mom and Dad, Becky and Ernie, from son, $25
In loving memory of my husband Don. Love, Lois, $25
Anonymous, $50
Wesolych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia, Bernie, $50
Merry Christmas from Chris, Jimmy, Sarah, Jenny and Rowan, $100
David and Carter, $10
Merry Christmas from Patricia and Bambi the wonder dog, $25
Merry Christmas from Gerry and Elodia, $10
Merry Christmas to the children of Springfield, $50
In memory of my loving husband, Roger Coulombe, from Pauline, $20
In loving memory of both my Daddy and brother David who loved children and Christmas. Love, Nancy, $50
Merry Christmas Mike, Cindy, Holly and Matt, $100
How blessed are we for Shea, Kal, Sierra and Riley, $100
In loving memory for Alice McCleary and Douglas Reney, $20
I love my shelter dogs, $10
In loving memory of Fred and Margaret Harkens, $50
In loving memory of Helba and George Belhumeur, $50
In loving memory of Mike Rinehart, $25
In honor of deceased Candaras-Wolf family members, $100
Instead of Christmas cards, Denise and Dave Douglas, $25
In memory of Fred and Lil Provencher and Bill and Ruth French, $50
In memory of Charles (Buddy) Stagnaro, $100
In memory of Ray Haluch, $100
From my grandson Aiden James LaPierre, $10
Carol and Harold, $50
In memory of Armand and Winifred Beaulieu, $100
Happy 85th birthday to Joe Cote, $25
Love should make the world go round, Aaron and Mom, $25
In memory of Dolly and Nancy, $300
Buon Natale to all the little children, $5
In memory of my dad and godmother from Nancy, $50
With thanks to Mia. You lift our heavy hearts, $50
In lieu of Christmas cards and in memory of deceased loved ones, Jack and Rita, $25
To all the wonderful children, Merry Christmas from George and Doris, $15
In loving memory of Tom, Ellen and Marjory Miller, $20
In memory of a dear friend Joyce Kreiling from Jo-ann S., $10
The Pavlica family, $25
In loving memory of Mom and Dad, Sandy, Shirley and Janasia (JJ), $25
The Werenski family, $25
Love to the children from Vic and Carolyn, $25
In loving memory of Brenda Lee Nichols, $10
In loving memory of David, Kathleen and Baby Henry, U Joe and A Marion, $25
Happy holidays from Grace and Brian, $20
In memory of Allen H St. Onge, $150
In memory of Gramps C, Dad K and Dad C who loved all children, $25
In Mae’s honor, love Cherrie, Lynne and Laurie, $30
In honor of Zoe, Max and Luna Hemingway, $30
Jane and John, $100
In loving memory of my parents, Stanley and Stella Borowik. Love, Marilyn, $25
In loving memory of my father, Walter Haryasz. Love, Edward, $25
In memory of my sister Gale Mange, $25
Merry Christmas from Melissa and Rick, $500
In memory of Alice and Joe Haggerty, $25
Merry Christmas to all MacLeod clan, $20
Anonymous, $200
In memory of our parents, Bill and Peg, Frank and Helen, $20
Merry Christmas with love to our eight adult children. Amen, $10
On behalf of Suzanne Cawley, $25
In loving memory of Gram and Dad, Emmie, Heather, Kelly and David, $100
Merry Christmas from Dan and Elisa, $100
Cynthia, $100
In memory of Blakesley and McDonough family members from Mary and Don, $100
In memory of Dory Lynch McKenna from Mare, $50
In memory of Mom, Dad and brother John. Love, Dottie and Eddie, $25
In loving memory of Algot V. Olson and Raymond, Edith and Donald Blakesley, $15
In loving memory of my loving husband, William Fenton, from Florence, $20
In memory of Fiore “Butch” Grimaldi, $10
In memory of Frances A. Demaio, $10
In memory of James A. Grimaldi Jr., $10
In memory of Norman Beaulieu Sr. from his wife and sons and family, $25
In memory of Frank and Mildred Meaulieu from their daughter-in-law Jean, $25
In memory of John and Ethel Saunders from their daughter and grandsons, $25
In memory of John Saunders Jr. from his sister Jean, $25
In memory of Dorothy Cooper from her friend Jean, $25
In loving memory of John D. O’Neil Sr., Mary R. O’Neil and Lucy M. O’Neil. Merry Christmas, $25
In loving memory of Sheila O’Neil-Ryan and Kevin C. O’Neil. Merry Christmas, $25
Happy holidays from the employees at Heatbath, $300
In memory of George Speliopoulos, $25
Merry Christmas Sheiba and Callie, $50
Mill Valley Snowmobile Club, $50
Connecticut Valley Artesian Well Co., $350
In memory of Wanda Powers from husband Bill, $25
In memory of Mr. Nimms, $135
Priscilla and Vincent, $100
Donald and Patricia, $50
Paula, $25
In memory of James A. Fletcher and Joseph E Marinello, $100
As long as we care and share, there will be a Santa Claus from United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1459, $500
Merry Christmas from the Butler Corp., $500
Happy holidays from Kiley Middle School, $200

RECEIVED, $8,760
TOTAL TO DATE, $71,152
STILL NEEDED, $78,848

Alleged safety violations and drug activity at Easy Street, a Fiske Avenue nightclub, prompted authorities to shutter the club.

Facebook

GREENFIELD — The town's Board of License Commissioners has ordered the Easy Street Nightclub to remain closed through this holiday weekend – a traditionally busy time for Western Massachusetts eating and drinking establishments – after a series of recent problems, including the arrest of a co-owner of the nightclub on drug charges last month.

Bar owner Ivan Tristan was arrested in November on cocaine and other charges. The day after his arrest, town officials closed Easy Street for eight days, citing safety-code violations at the Fiske Avenue club, according to a report by the Greenfield Recorder.

On Tuesday, the Board of License Commissioners again ordered the bar to close, yanking the club's liquor license for 10 days – three of which must be served immediately. The remaining seven days were deferred, The Recorder reported.

It wasn't immediately clear what specifically triggered this week's closure, but club manager and co-owner Ananda Larson last month agreed to correct the safety issues.

William B. Allen, chairman of the Board of License Commissioners, told 22News that even though Tristan is no longer involved with the bar, Larson is still responsible for the violations.

“What we're trying to do is show, I guess, that there was illegal activity going on there. Case law says that she's responsible, she's the manager," Allen told the TV station.

Tristan denied the drug charges at his arraignment last month in Greenfield District Court. Greenfield Police Detective Kevin Rowell said Tristan was the subject of a five-month investigation into illicit drug activity at the club.

The family of Jaime Ulloa also contributed to the holiday toy campaign.

Thing5, of Springfield, is among the latest donors to the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign, this week delivering a check for $15,000. Shown here outside the company's office are, back row, left to right, Jason Schrecke, Rick Kelly, Mike Petit, David Thor, Mario Torchia, Anthony Gragowski and Shawn Paul, and front row, left to right, Demetra Belitsos, Theresa Claffey, Melissa Thornton, Lorenza Daye, Ryan Collins, Aaron Lewis and David Rooks.

SPRINGFIELD – Two major gifts, one from a long-time donor, the other from a first-timer, have generously boosted the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign by $20,000.

That first-time donor, the technology-based corporation Thing5, contributed $15,000 to Toy for Joy this week.

The Hampden County Correctional Center inmates’ commissary fund, which has donated to Toy for Joy for many years, presented a $5,000 donation.

Toy for Joy, jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, is working to raise $150,000 by Friday to cover the costs of bringing toys and gifts to thousands of children this holiday season.

David Thor, managing director for Thing5, which supports technology for the travel and leisure industries, said personnel opted to give a major boost to Toy for Joy after reading that the fund-raising campaign still had a significant way to go towards reaching its goal.

Thing5, which has about 1,100 employees, including 100 in Springfield, is growing rapidly, Thor said.

“We are quiet because we don’t do business here,” Thor said, adding that the Springfield operation is based at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. “We wanted to participate more in the community as we grow.”

Sheriff Michael J. Ashe said the commissary fund is accrued through the sales of coffee, snacks, envelopes and the like.

“It’s a case of the inmates giving back to the community,” Ashe said, adding that it’s a wise donation because many of those incarcerated at the Hampden County Correctional Center at Stonybrook in Ludlow have children who benefit from Toy for Joy.

John Suchocki / The Republican21911 - Ludlow - Hampden County Sheriff Michael Ashe with the $5,000 donation for the Toy for Joy from donations of the Sheriff's department personal who were represented by officer Jose Ramos, Victor Kelly and Cpl. Barbara VanValkenburg

“The unexpected gift by the employees of Thing5 and the continued generosity of the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department are both a source of great reassurance that there are kind and generous people who make up our communities in Western Massachusetts,” said Cynthia G. Simison, managing editor of The Republican. “This season is all about giving, and every donor, no matter the size of the contribution, ensures we are able to bring smiles to the faces of many, many children on Christmas morning. It can be the gift of a family in memory of a loved one, pennies gathered by school children or a collection made at a variety store, like JJ’s in Westfield. Every single gift is important.”

Contributors in today’s list of donations, which tallies to $26,611, include the eight grandchildren of the late Jaime Ulloa.

Ulloa, who became a quadriplegic after a diving accident, was widely known for his community activism, his tireless dedication to the disabled and others in need of a helping hand.

“It’s something that he really focused his life on and by extension, made clear to us, his children and grandchildren that a big part of life is giving back to others,” said Shaun Ulloa, one of the eight grandchildren.

“Give to others, that’s what both my parents taught,” said Cathy Ulloa. The elder Ulloa died 30 years ago, and a park in the North End is named in his honor.

Toy for Joy still needs to raise $52,237 to meet its goal.

he 8 grandchildren of the late Jaime Ulloa of Springfield have donated to Toy for Joy. Shown here from the left is Aanalisa Fazio, Catalina Ulloa-Hiltz and Marco Ulloa-Hiltz.

Hasbro, Inc. this year joined Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which were distributed.Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army bring over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees have also been among the volunteers who aided the Salvation Army with registration and distribution of toys and gift.

For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through noon on Friday.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

Happy holidays from the leadership team and employees at Thing5, $15,000
Happy holidays from the Hampden County Jail Inmates Commissary Fund, $5,000
In loving memory of Jaime Ulloa from your eight grandchildren, Jaime, Shaun, Christina, Miguel, Analisa, Loli, Catalina and Marco, $80
In memory of Helen and Ray Provost, $100
In memory of the Rosati family, my husband Guido and my sister Tina Hottin, love you, $10
Merry Christmas Dutchie and Bella from Ray, $25
To make Christmas merrier for the children from Phelps School faculty, $140
Merry Christmas from the Beturnes, $25
In honor of Cleland Stephens’ 90th birthday from the King family, $30
For grandsons Aiden and Kieran, $25
Merry Christmas from Christien, Nathan and Owen, $20
Phoebe, $30
From Jake, Josh and Katie, $50
From Castlegate Drive friends, $40
In loving memory of our parents from Ron and Noreen, $50
In memory of my beloveds, Gramps, Ma and JK, $50
God bless the children from Mrs. Santa, $25
Merry Christmas from Barb and Ed, $50
In loving memory of Louis and Germaine and Paul Morin, $25
In memory of Abe and Ines Albano, $1000
In memory of Fred from Red, $20
Merry Christmas from Joyce, $100
In memory of loved ones, $15
In loving memory of my parents Adeline and Don Charest from Tom, $30
In lieu of gifts to my coworkers at Hasbro from Bob and Nancy, $50
In memory of my dad, William LaRochelle. Miss you, $50
In memory of Julie, $25
In memory of Margaret Russell, Mildred Dumas, $40
Thank you St. Jude for continued support, Dawn S, $20
George and Jackie, $250
In memory of Manser Hapcock, John Barney and Tom Thompson, $50
Memory of Grace and Don Liberty and John Klisiewicz, $100
In loving memory of Moira from the family, $100
In memory of Dick and Doris Cote and Bob and Barbara O’Connor, $25
In memory of Albert Ronini and Fuzz Kellogg, $20
In memory of ESH, DBH, DEH, CLB and DLB, $15
In dear loving memory of Dr. L. Lester Cohan, my father, my best friend. Love, Lana, $20
In memory of Suki Beucke, the Christmas puppy, $20
Remembering Ray and Dot Hosley and George and June Keefe, $15
MJ, $20
In memory of Grace and John Lazazzera, Lena Bitsacos, Leo Remillard, Maureen and Sal Scibelli, $20
In memory of all the sisters of Notre Dame, $50
Merry Christmas to all from Don and Marie, $250
Remembering Daddy, Ting, Jenna and TeeJae from Cindi, Zeke and Lacie, $25
For my 13 grandchildren, $13
In memory of my husband Edward Lubas from wife Doris, $25
Merry Christmas from Connor and GiGi, $25
For Ellie who loved Christmas, $25
Wishing everyone a Christmas filled with peace and joy from Stan and Barb, $100
Thank you St. Jude and Anthony for prayers answered, favors granted, JG, $20
Peace and abundance for all from Tom and Teri, $50
In loving memory of my husband Joe Marazzi by wife Marion, $10
In loving memory of Pop from John, Liz, Pete, Josie, Mike, Dan and Trev, $50
In memory of GG, $25
Merry Christmas Michael, Katie and Dusty, $25
In memory of Christopher J Knight. Sadly missed by Mom, Dad and Brian, $30
Merry Christmas to all children from Sam, Lucy and Ruby, $25
In memory of Stanley Gallup and Rose and Tom Haynes, $50
In memory of Ron Harrison and Boo, $25
In thanksgiving for our grandsons Jacob and Jameson, $20
In loving memory of Bill Curtis Jr., $25
In celebration of the birth of Chloe Elizabeth, $50
God bless the little people from William and Anne, $100
In thanks for our grandchildren Sarah, Parker, Alex, Sophie and Stella, $50
In memory of Mom, Dad, Donnie, Debbie and Kevin, $50
Helping Amelia share her blessings, Grandma and Grandpa, $50
Anonymous, $20
Book Club, $70
Wally, $50
In memory of Brian Eric, $20
Loving memory of Mom and Dad from Steven and Sheila, $25
In memory of Salem and Sabrina, $10
William and Margaret, $20
Merry Christmas from the drivers at Sunshine Village, $50
Have a wonderful Christmas from Nellie, $10
In memory of Ti Ti Connie, $20
Merry Christmas and God bless from Jim and Sally, $25
Raymond and Cecelia White, $30
From three loving grandmothers, $30
In memory of Bob, George, Evelyn, Paul, Shirley and Mania, $25
In loving memory of Joseph and Mary Frydryk and Karl Dygon from Carl and Patty, $25
Jane and Pierce, $100
From Public Safety and Management employees at Eastfield Mall, $100
Merry Christmas from the employees at the Longmeadow Town Hall, $150
To my parents Kenneth and Marjorie Chapin, father-in-law Mike Miller and son Kenny, know that you are always in my heart and sadly missed, love Ken, $40
In memory of Pauline Schonauer, $25
St. Mary’s Girls Softball Division, $100
In loving memory of my mother Helen Kennedy, grandparents William and Glee Rich and Mozart and Tiki, love Kathleen and Sebastian, $20
Christmas together in heaven, Tio, Tia, Sally, Michael, BJ and Brenda, $30
In memory of our beloved daughter, Beth Girotti. Love, Mom and Dad, $20
In memory of our parents Betty and Pickles Harrington. Love, Judy and Dave, $20
In memory of our parents Ray and Angie Girotti. Love, Dave and Judy, $20
In memory of our father and Popau Socco Babacas. Love, Pam, Bobby, Krysten, Jen and Katie, $25
In loving memory of my mom Mary Lorraine Boronski. Missing you so very much. Love, Sue, $25
Anonymous, $10
From the Hampden Golfing group, in memory of Vincent McGovern, $538
In memory of Joe and Rita Leary from Bob and Eileen Zewski, $25
In memory of Frances Potter Colvin and Thomas Potter, $50
Merry Christmas Aunt Stasia. Love, Mark, Jan, Alex, Rebecca, Michael and Nick, $50
Merry Christmas Aunt Cece. Love, Mark, Jan, Alex, Rebecca, Michael and Nick, $50
Merry Christmas from Accu Finish Orthodontic Lab, $25
From all our great customers at JJ’s Variety in Westfield, $100
Merry Christmas to all from Alpha Oil Company, $100
Anonymous, $50
Nick, Carolyn, Buddy and Brittany Athas, $25
Gerard and Maya, $30
In memory of Sharon, Robin and Bill, $60
In memory of Doris, Paul and Al from Sunday Money Makers, $50
Merry Christmas to all the children from Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative’s Hampden-Wilbraham bus drivers, $145
In loving memory of two of our coworkers, Paul Hackett and Brian Boyden, from their friends at M.J. Moran Inc., $250

RECEIVED, $26,611
TOTAL TO DATE, $97,763
STILL NEEDED, $52,237

The advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday in anticipation of 2 to 4 inches of snow.

Clayton T. Weglarz clears snow from his front walk Dillon Avenue in Holyoke on Friday, December 19, 2008. Christopher Evans/The Republican

GREENFIELD - The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory for Franklin County in anticipation of a storm that could leave between 2 and 4 inches of snow.

The advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday. It also covers western Hampshire County and norther Worcester County.

The forecast calls for rain turning to snow, which could cause bridges and untreated roads to become slippery.

Hampshire and Hampden counties are expected to see rain through the overnight and into Friday. There is a chance of some snow overnight, but accumulations are not expected to be more than 1/2 an inch.

The Republican Newspaper and the Salvation Army hope to raise $150,000 by noon today.

Michael Gordon / The RepublicanDecember 21, 2011 - Wilbraham - Minnechaug Regional High School students of teachers Teal Lowe, Julie Zanetti and Jennifer Jenovevo raised $3397.06 for the Toy for Joy campaign.

View full size

WILBRAHAM – High school students here and in Agawam clearly make the grade when it comes helping children in need this holiday season.

Students from Minnechaug Regional High School in Wilbraham donated $3,397 to the Toy for Joy campaign. That doubles the gift that students, their families and school staff raised last season, said Heid Drawec, dean of students.

Drawec said students in more than 20 classes contributed their spare change. Some of the money came from a dress-down day, and families and individuals donated as well.

“This year there were so many families that stepped up,” Drawec said. “The community effort just came together.”

The National Honor Society students at Agawam High School, meanwhile, raised $1,669 during a week-long drive, said Nikoli Benkert, co-advisor to the National Honor Society at the school said.

Current donations tally to $112,594.56. leaving $37,405.44 to be raised.

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign. Jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 by Friday to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

Hasbro, Inc. is joining Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which will be distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays and this year is no different. Hasbro employees were also among the volunteers who aided the Salvation Army with registration of families and distribution of the toys and gifts.

For more information, call (413) 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Contributions may also be dropped off with the coupon to The Republican, 1860 Main St., Springfield, weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. through today.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

A blessed Christmas to family and friends from Teresa and James Simonds, $25
In loving memory of our grandparents, love Lisa and Mary, $20
In memory of our parents Coutus and Landrys, $10
In memory of Bobby Skorka, Laurie and Rob, love Doreen, $15
Make a child smile from Pauline, $20
In loving memory of my mother Evelyn Beyette, $10
For Tim Melton from Esther, Dave and Mom, $100
Steven, $35
In loving memory of my Dad, Patrick, a loved grandfather, $10
In memory of Zoey, $25
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Francis Connery, $25
In memory of Ma and Dad, we miss you, D and J, $20
In loving memory of Ukie, Marge and Jeff from the Rainauds, $25
Merry Christmas to my DSP team at MassMutual from Lynn, $150
In memory of Paul Jr and Paul Sr and the Scibelli family, $20
Merry Christmas from Pat and Dave, $100
In gratitude for a wonderful family and the best friends, $100
Bernette, $20
We hope to brighten some children’s lives, $50
In loving memory of Lucielle Hyland and Eilleen McCarthy, $25
In memory of Rita Marcus, $20
In memory of my wife Betty and son Mike, $25
In honor of our grandson Connor, Merry Christmas, love Grandma and Grandpa, $50
Merry Christmas from Tom and Lynne King, $200
Andy, $500
For Boppy’s angels, $25
In memory of Sadie, $25
Blessings for the children, $25
Merry Christmas Ho Ho Ho, $20
Merry Christmas, love Jerad, Logn, Delaney and Salle, $50
Anonymous, $20
For the children, $10
In loving memory of our parents from Pat and Gary Kopy, $25
Merry Christmas, $20
In memory of Steven Graci, $20
Jesus is the reason for the season, $25
The Powers family, $15
Merry Christmas, Betsy, Bill, Brett and Charlie, $100
In memory of past members of Highland Grange #48 of Huntington, $25
In loving memory of Raymond Besko from wife Mary, $25
Thomas and Lois, $50
Merry Christmas from the “kindness kids”, $100
Merry Christmas from Sandra, $25
In honor of John J. Sorrentino, Merry Christmas, $200
For family and friends gone too soon but not forgotten, $50
Gerald, $25
In remembrance of my brother Jerry, $20
In memory of my daughter Karen McCann, $20
Jacqueline, $25
In memory of my wife Rosemarie, $100
In loving memory of Sev Albano and Barbara Furlani from Gloria, $20
In loving memory of my dear mother from John, $20
In memory of Roger and Jeanne Johnson, Gerald and Muriel Laux and Kevin Patrick Brown, $25
For Horace “Bill” Hinman, “The Chief”, $20
For Scott LeDoux, Jerry Quarry, Ron Lyle and Joe Frazier, $10
God bless the children, VI and SF, $5
In memory of Spanky, Carley and Cal, God bless, $20
In memory of Grampy from Ciena and John John, $25
Merry Christmas from the Pereira family, $100
In memory of Amedco, Theresa and Lorraine, $20
Merry Christmas to Steve and Louise Delude from MM/IOPS, $70
Happy Holidays from Pat, Jena, Albert and Leo Truoiolo, $25
In memory of Lee and Jo Pilon, Merry Christmas, $20
Larry and Roberta, $50
Judy, $50
In loving memory of Noni Hinkley and cousin Michelle, love Peg and Krysten, $25
In loving memory of our Poppa “Kip” Methot from Krysten, Colin, Tyler, Kara, Conner and Elise, $25
In memory of O’Connor, Connelly and Sullivan families, $50
In memory of CJB love Auntess, $25
For all those good little girls and boys, $25
In memory of Genevieve and Henry Ciak, $50
Happy Holidays from Lori, $25
In memory of Lionel and Rita Gaudette from Ron and Nan, $100
Merry Christmas, love Mimi, $250
In memory of Barbara Chapman from Phil, Lin, CJ and Bri, $25
In memory of Don and Pat Bushey from Linda, Phil, CJ and Bri, $25
In memory of all veterans, $10
The Webers, $100
Merry Christmas to all from Jack, custodian at Chapin St. School, $50
In memory of Mom and Dad, $10
In memory of Eva Sullivan, $25
Tracy and Eric, $100
I want every child to have a toy on Christmas from Emma, $10
In loving memory of Gladys, Kent and Bernie, $25
A very Merry Christmas to all from Ryan, Lauryn and Rachel, $25
Merry Christmas from Ron, $50
God bless Steven, $25
Francis and Danny Martin, $20
In memory of deceased loved ones, $25
Merry Christmas to the kids from the Erickson family, $10
In memory of Juliette McDonald and Edna Stefanik, $35
Merry Christmas from Dean and Linda, $25
Love Uncle John and Grandpa Gerweck, Merry Christmas, $25
In memory of Stanley, Helen, Victor and Richard, $25
In memory of Fluffy Ruffles, $20
In memory of my husband, grandson and parents from Anne Marie, $10
For all those who died serving their country, $100
In loving memory of Dave Bridie and Kevin Russell and, Paul O’Brien, $100
In memory of Charlie and Mary Ghedi, love Neal, Sue and boys, $25
In honor of Ruth Gould, love Sue, $25
In memory of Helga, $50
In loving memory of our parents Ray and Jean Babineau from Terry and Dan Willett, $50
In memory of Danny and Maurice from the Tatro family, $15
In memory of deceased loved ones from Richard and Ellen, $25
Maureen, $20
Thank you God for your blessings and new announcement, $50
Happy 90th Birthday Eileen from Danny and Janine, $50
In memory of our wonderful parents from Terry and Judy Spencer, $25
In memory of our parents Armand and Yvonne LaRochelle, $50
In memory of Mom and Dad Babcock, love Dolly and George, $10
Anonymous, $10
Memory of all my loved ones in heaven and loving husband Dr. William Hennessey, $50
In memory of Mom and Dad Rowe, love Dolly and George, $10
Merry Christmas from James and Susan, $50
Merry Christmas from Cindy, $40
In loving memory of three sisters, Minnie, Orpha and Tillie, $100
In loving memory of F. Griffin Keougll from the Clemons family, $25
Merry Christmas from Julie and Spunky, $20
Thank you St. Anthony, $25
In memory of my godmother Aunt Kelly, love Collin, $25
Claudia, Tony, Danielle and Emma, $25
In memory of Roger, Myrtle, Ward and Jeff Sargent, $20
In loving memory of Bob and Michael Meehan, $20
Nancy, $50
In thanks for all our blessings from Al and Chris, $25
In memory of mother Margaret P. Conroy, $25
Merry Christmas, remembering all of our families from Michael and Darlene, $25
In memory of Jake, $25
In memory of Grampa Bull and Papa B, $25
In loving memory of Donald Moodie, $100
Anonymous, $100
Merry Christmas from our grandchildren, Mya, Alexa, Kayla and Riley, $100
In memory of dear friend Louise Pomeroy, love Fran, $10
In memory of dear friend Winnie Kerwin, love Fran, $10
In loving memory of Tony from Fran with love, $25
In memory of Mom and Pa from Frank with love, $25
In loving memory of my mother Patricia Jackson, $25
In loving memory of Carl Gustafson, $50
In memory of Donald A. Stuart on our fourth Christmas without you from your loving family Pauline, Sharon, Susan and Robbie, $25
In memory of Heidi Weit and Robert Person who loved Christmas from Grandma Stuart, $25
Anonymous, $30
In memory of David A. Downer from Nancy and Madeline, $15
Memory of Kip Methot and Jack Benoit, $20
Local 211 members, $100
Remembering 54 Christmases together, $50
For Nana, $5
In memory of Dad and my brother Tony from Judy, $25
In memory of Vin-Man Nana and Papa, $25
In memory of Roger and Patricia Connor, $25
Happy Holidays from Dan and Jane, $100
Thank you St. Anthony and St. Jude, $20
In memory of our fathers Morris and Irving, $100
In memory of Ralph Oliver, $30
In memory of Albert and Lucy DiStefano, love son and family, $50
Merry Christmas Tim and Liam, $25
Merry Christmas to all from Tank and Princess, $25
The Rauhs grandchildren, $10
Merry Christmas, love Maddison, Griffin and Nolan, $25
Merry Christmas from the Finnegans, $100
In loving memory of Manya, love Jeri, Judi, Bev, Estelle, Natalie, Suzie and Kelly, $70
Thank you from a father and daughter who’ve been there, $10
Peggy, $100
Thanks for sharing Joe, $50
In memory of loved ones, love PVH, $20
In memory of Muriel, Mary, Kevin and Karen, $20
Christmas blessings, $25
In memory of Aunt Freida, Cindy, Steven and Nancy, $25
In memory of Michael S, $50
In honor of the Learning Center Mapleshade School East Longmeadow from Cameron Gaudet, $25
In memory of Jimmy and Theresa Chechile, love Tom and Fran, $20
In memory of Velma and Al Farland, Genevieve and MacDonough Foard, $300
Anonymous, $100
In thanksgiving for a favor received, $20
Thanks to our girl Mattie for 14 unforgettable years, thanks Bob D, hello Gracie, blessings to all, $30
Peace, love and joy from Will C, $30
In memory of Joseph Sherry Sr and Jeffrey Maggiolino, love Mom and Dad, $20
Merry Christmas, in memory of Carol and Jack, $100
In memory of my beloved husband, we all miss you very much CJ from Louise, $15
Memory of “Kenny” Krech and Virginia Holden from Mike, $25
In memory of Christmas birthday for Pat Parisi from Mimi and daughters, $10
In loving memory of Christine, Catherine and Daryl Weckerly from Bonnie and Jeffrey, $25
Robert and Cathy, $250
James and Barbara, $25
Liz, $25
In loving memory of our grandparents and great grandparents, Francis and Glenrose Rollet, with love from Jeremy, Hilarie, Delaney and Hailey Stebbins, $25
Anonymous, $100
In memory of Margaret and Russell Dale, $100
Merry Christmas Mrs. Jacobs, love Niki, $25
In memory of Mike Salron from Chris, Jon and Pat Salron, $50
Matthew, $150
Remembering Edward and Jane Gruszka and members of the Bednarz/Gruszka families, $250
The O’Brien family, $25
Katherine, $100
Merry Christmas, peace, love and joy to everyone from a friend, $100
In memory of Marge and George Zecher, $100
In memory of Armand H. Desilets from your son Paul, $10
In loving memory of Robert Bilton Sr. from wife Rosalie, sons Robert Jr. and Mark, and grandchildren Keith and Janie, $25
Staff donation from Valley West, $100
In loving memory of Andrea Moccio from the staff at Responsive Trucking, $150
Hayden Corporation, $250
On behalf of the students of Agawam High School, $1669.50
Happy Holidays from Minnechaug Regional High School, $3397.06

RECEIVED, $14,831.56
TOTAL TO DATE, $112,594.56
STILL NEEDED, $37,405.44

This marks Toy for Joy's 89th season.

John Suchocki / The Republican12-22-2011 - Callaway Golf in Chicopee employees donated $12,000 to the Toy For Joy. Representing the employees and staff are left to right, Steve Varuis, James Serra, John Hereiques, Steve Lapiere, John Marques, Tony Pires, Dan Gomez Plant Manager, Mario Godbout Vice president golf ball operations, Dianne McMillan,Tom Gaudrault and John Fogarty.

SPRINGFIELD – The employees of Callaway Golf Co. are again a driving force when it comes to Toy for Joy.

Callaway, which has a plant in Chicopee, has given $12,000 to Toy for Joy this year. The company, which manufactures high-end tour golf balls, has been donating to the holiday toy campaign for over 20 years.

The Toy for Joy tradition started when employees Tom Gauldrault and Claude Pouliot donated $35 in memory of a co-worker, according to Daniel Gomez, plant manager.

Since then, Callaway and its workers have donated over $100,00 to Toy for Joy, Gomez said.

Callaway’s annual donation comes from the recycling of bottles and cans consumed by employees inside the facilty and from selling scrap metal from old machinery as upgrades are made.

“It’s our pleasure said Gomez. “We have been doing it a long time, and we will continue to do it.”

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign; jointly sponsored by the Salvation Army and The Republican, the campaign is working to raise $150,000 to bring toys and gifts to children in need this holiday season.

Donations tallied thus far total $133,054.27, leaving $16,945.73 to be raised to cover the costs of this year’s toy distribution.

Hasbro, Inc. joined Toy for Joy as a partner, providing some of the toys which were distributed. Hasbro has a long history of helping families in Western Massachusetts during the holidays.

By teaming with the Toy for Joy campaign, Hasbro, The Republican and the Salvation Army brought over 100 combined years of experience managing programs that help families in need give their children a toy or game to unwrap on their holiday. Hasbro employees were among the volunteers who aided the Salvation Army with registration of families and with distribution of the toys and gifts.

For more information, call 733-1518. To make a contribution to the Toy for Joy fund, write: Toy for Joy, P.O. Box 3007, Springfield 01102. Here’s a list of the latest contributors:

From the employees of Callaway Golf Co., wishing all a very Merry Christmas, $12000
In the names of our wonderful children, $1000
In memory of the Wells and LaMagna families, $50
Merry Christmas to our friends and family from Kelli and David, $100
Merry Christmas to our seven beautiful grandchildren from Marilyn and John, $25
Merry Christmas from Mary Ellen, $10
In loving memory of my wife Kathy Ann Checkowski, $100
For our young and our old who are very special, $15
Merry Christmas to the children from the Record family, $50
To honor my dear friends and family from Carol, $100
Gloria and Imani, God bless, $30
In loving memory of granddaughter Olivia Ross from Grammy and Grampy, $50
Happy Holidays always Jazmin, Emmanuel and Bruno, $20
In memory of loved ones gone, Katie B, $50
In loving memory of my husband Bob and all deceased members of our families from Betty, $100
Merry Christmas from Steve and Gina, $100
In memory of my godchild Julianne Labossiere, $25
Merry Christmas from Griffin and Casey, $100
In memory of Kicker, $25
In memory of Frank and Carol Bacon, $200
In memory of Ray and Patty, $25
In memory of loved ones lost from Fran and Virginia, $25
In memory of Jason Rivers, Merry Christmas, $100
To see the child’s smile on Christmas morning, $25
In loving memory of Agnes Brueno Platt and Nancy Bean Morrissey, love Albert and Gail, $40
In loving memory of Abigail Maciorowski, your granddaughter Gail, $20
For blessings of the Bean grandchildren, Sarah, Ethan, Colin and Cameron, $50
In loving memory of all the deceased members of the Babinski family, $40
In memory of Josephine G. Brault, $20
Molly, $25
Merry Christmas, in memory of Paul, Ruth and Grace Mathews, $25
In loving memory of my dear parents from Dorothy, $25
Anonymous, $100
In loving memory of our niece Heather from Eric and Laura, $25
Jane and Herschel, $40
In loving memory of Gra, Pa and Grampy, love Aly, $5
In loving memory of Cali, I will always love you, love Aly, $5
For Cinder and Geor, my two girls, love Aly, $5
Thank you St. Jude for prayers answered, AC, $5
For strength for those dealing with illness, AC, $5
Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year from Barbara and John, $20
Merry Christmas from Stash and Roza, $25
Merry Christmas from Sean, $25
Tom, Ellen and Brian Race, $25
In loving memory of my Dad William J. Mack, $25
In loving memory of Mary McGrath, $100
We will miss you Ma, Merry Christmas from Paul, $25
Because Aunt Mary and Uncle Frank always made Christmas special, $25
In memory of Tinker, $25
Merry Christmas to all from Summer and Alex, $25
In memory of loved ones, Merry Christmas, $30
In memory of my brother Alan from Todd Cheika, $125
In loving memory of Ted, Winnie and David from Nina, $15
Many thanks to Bishop Scruton, $20
Merry Christmas from Dylan, Chloe, Harrison, Coffee Bean, Scobbie, Tedy Bruschi and Troy Brown Bears, $50
In memory of Joe Kane, $50
In memory of Stanley Cortis, love Kevin, Darlene and kids, $25
In memory of Gene Brassard, love Darlene, Kevin and kids, $25
In memory of Dan Murphy from Kay, $10
In loving memory of our dog Maggie, Merry Christmas from Rich and Julie, $25
Merry Christmas to all, Peter, Kathy, MacKenzie and Shannon, $100
In loving memory of Carl Bathelt from Mary Lou, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, $25
In memory of Santo Despirt 12/17/11, Mary and Dirk, $40
In memory of John W. Buam from grandkids Nate, Matt and Hannah, $25
For favors granted, thank you St. Jude, EM, $15
Merry Christmas to the Visconti family, love Grandma Faith, $50
In loving memory of Aurora Lily Gabrenas, love Nana and Grandpa, $25
In memory of my mother and father from Bill, $25
Remembering Roy, RIP, love ETA, $10
In memory of my husband Phil from Marianne, $25
In loving memory of Tim, Sophie and August Kosta, $200
Thank you Mayor Sarno for rebuilding Springfield, Merry Christmas, $50
In loving memory of Uncle Bill, love Anna, Michael, David and Tony, $50
Ruth, $25
In memory of Robert Adams, love Robin and Ricky, $25
In celebrating Charlotte’s second Christmas, $50
Merry Christmas :), $25
Merry Christmas Cursillo 2011, $25
In loving memory of my parents John and Betty Devine, $100
In memory of Jennie, Art, Eleanor and Joe, $15
To remember Mom, Wally and Mem, $25
In loving memory of my Dad, Roland T. Gregoire, love you, Anne, $10
In loving memory of my husband Alan Peterson, love Anne, $10
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the students and staff at Dryden School, $363.30
In loving memory of Paul and Brian Mackey, $50
In loving memory of Helen and Mark LePine, $50
In memory of my brother Ed Scagel from Anne Mc, $20
In memory of Gram Littlejohn who made our Christmases special from her family, $50
A penny in the old man’s hat, from Phelps K-13, $23.41
In loving memory of Bob and Charlie from Jane and Glen, $50
Suzanne, $15
Joe, $25
In memory of my “Pity Sing”, $10
Maureen, $50
From the staff at the Registry of Probate in Springfield, $500
In honor of Maureen Shea, world’s greatest mother-in-law, $10
Mariann, $20
On behalf of the St. George’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral Philoptochos Ladies Society, $150
In memory of Margaret and Kenneth Smiledge, $250
In memory of my grandparents Joseph A. Chicklowski and Sotirios and Panagiota Vakakas and my Uncle Chanes A. Newman from Tricia, $25
In memory of Mom, Dad, John Chipper, Molly and Grettyl, $100
In loving memory of Mitchell Swienton and in honor of Mr. Swienton and Davis families from Chris, Ben, Jeff, Tim and Jon, $50
Merry Christmas Peter, Chris, Bobby and Erin LaBreck, $100
Merry Christmas from the Hladchuk family, $25
In memory of Margaret McCaffrey, $25
Merry Christmas from Jim, $10
Merry Christmas from Rosemary, $10
Merry Christmas from Elizabeth, $10
Merry Christmas from Cathleen, $10
Merry Christmas from Pete, $10
Merry Christmas from Emma, $10
Merry Christmas from Maggie, $10
Merry Christmas from Bill, $10
Merry Christmas from Mona, $10
Merry Christmas from Billy, $10
Merry Christmas from Lauren, $10
Merry Christmas from Melissa, $10
In memory of our friend Alan Vadnais from Jim’s Auto Trim, $50
In memory of Sheila Sunter and Robert Hanke, Sr from Ed and Robin, $100
From the employees of Covanta Springfield, $250
Hampden Banks employee dress down day, $100
William Roberts Electric Co., $200
Happy Holidays from Dr. Matthew Katz and staff, $150
North American Energy Alliance Energy Massachusetts, $500
In loving memory for deceased members of the Bertini and Almeida families, $20
In honor of Mark S. Ryan, love Lester and Donna, $20
Happy Christmas to all of the Logan nieces and nephews from Aunt Marilyn, $25
In memory of Fred Ingrid, Lucy and Herb Quagliaroli, $1
Merry Christmas to all the kids from Teresa, $40
Merry Christmas and God bless, $20
From Bobo, in memory of Billy Bond, $20
In loving memory of little beautiful Tim, I love you, $10
S. Sgt Steven B. LaRiviere USMC, 10/23/83, now reunited with his parents, $25
In loving memory of Alice M, $10
In memory of Grandpa Lee Roy, $10
In honor of Chloe Lee’s first visit to Santa, $10
To the wonderful person who rescued me, Kelly Breton, love Winston, $20
In memory of James McAleer from his wife Mary, $20
Thank you St. Jude and St. Anthony, ECZ, $10
In memory of Cas who loved Christmas and kids, $20
Anonymous, $3
Thank you Donna A from Cynthia A., $20
Anonymous, $60
Anonymous, $70
For our Elias Brookings School family, best holiday wishes from George and Joan Rollins, $75
Merry Christmas from a friend, $20
Merry Christmas to all from United Water, $94

RECEIVED, $20,459.71
TOTAL TO DATE, $133,054.27
STILL NEEDED, $16,945.73

As of noon on Dec. 23, Toy for Joy donations tallied to $163,425.97

Mark M. Murray / The Republican12/22/11 Springfield - Employees of the Springfield Postal Service Mail Processing Center hold a banner with the $ 8,800 amount which they collected and donated to this years Toy for Joy , they are from left to right in the front row, Joann Chiaro, Monica Lewandowski, Doreen Gallagher , Holly Pereira , Nancy Rivera , Monique Weeks, Behind them left to right, Norman Doray , Henry Ingram , Dodie Sullivan , Lenny Gamache , Rex Honsinger , Rhonda Lozinski, Bob McNeish, and Mary Griffith.

SPRINGFIELD – The spirit that infuses Toy for Joy each holiday season was exemplified on Friday when a woman, accompanied by a little boy, arrived at the Greater Springfield’s Salvation Army Citadel to pick up a bag of toys.

The child looked at his mother as they walked through the door and said, “You said there wouldn’t be a Santa,” Maj. Mary Jo Perks, co-commander of the citadel, recalled.

Not if the readers of The Republican and Masslive.com had anything to do with it. Toy for Joy, through the generosity of readers, handily exceeded its $150,00 goal this year.

With the help of U.S. Postal Service workers, a Springfield law firm, a Longmeadow businessman and his familiy and scores to school children, workplace groups and individuals, the Toy for Joy goal was surpassed, and the costs of this year’s toy program covered.

“We gave her the bag of toys, and his face lit up because her face lit up,” Perks said of the last-minute gift distribution. “That’s what we do this for. That’s what Christmas hope is.”

More than $30,000 in contributions received on Friday helped pushed Toy for Joy $13,000 beyond its goal.

The tally as of noon stood at $163,425.97. And, donations were still coming in and will be compiled for a final accounting in the next week.

“That’s fantastic,” said Perks. “That’s great news.”

“All of us at the Salvation Army, at The Republican and MassLive and our partners at Hasbro could not be more grateful,” said Cynthia G. Simison, managing editor of The Republican. “We are well aware that the effects of fragile economy still linger here in Western Massachusetts and that we have had many challenges in the past year. But, through it all, and with another Toy for Joy campaign, everyone has pulled together to show how resilient and generous we can be to those most in need.”

This marks the 89th annual Toy for Joy campaign, jointly sponsored by The Republican and the Salvation Army. The campaign welcomed Hasbro as a partner this year, with the toy manufacturer donating some of the toys distributed across the region.

The program distributed toys to thousands of families in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties.

Once again, U.S. Postal Service employees from the Indian Orchard facility organized an effort that pushed the campaign over its goal, giving $8,800 this holiday season.

“These people, I swear to God, they give from their pockets deeply,” said Dodie Sullivan, a mail handler who has helped coordinate the postal workers’ Toy for Joy drive for 25 years, “Their hearts are just big; that’s all I can say.”

Employees at the post offices on Main Street and in the Forest Park neighborhood also contributed, as did those in Wilbraham, Sullivan said.

Meanwhile, another long familiar face to Toy for Joy, Robert Sullivan, of the Sullivan Companies, walked into The Republican early on Friday morning to deliver a check for $4,000.

“Thank you to The Republican and the Salvation Army for another great job. Our gift is a tribute to all of our associates and customers at the Sullivan Companies. They are the finest group of people,” said Sullivan.

Another long-time contributor, the attorneys and staff at the law firm of Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, gave $2,170 to Toy for Joy in memory of a colleague, Robin Morris. It, too, has been a tradition.

Toy for Joy contributions, as of noon on Friday, represent 1,817 Toy for Joy line items. Individual donors, of course, tally to many, many more.

Donors include schools and school children, businesses and corporations, people seeking to honor lost loved-ones as well as provide a little bit of that Christmas hope for others.

“We are grateful to everyone, no matter the size of the donation. The pennies gathered by one school group are just as important as a $50 or $100 or more gift. Every contribution helps make a difference in a child’s life on Christmas morning,” said Simison.

Here’s a list of the latest contributors:
Merry Christmas Gramma and Popa. We love you, Emily, Owen, Sam, Alex and Brayden, $10
Happy birthday Mom and Gramma. Enjoy your day the 27th from all of us, $10
In loving memory of Joyce Cote, postmistress extraordinaire of Lake Pleasant, $50
Merry Christmas to the children, from the employees of the U.S. Postal Service, Springfield, $8,800
Happy holidays in tribute to the associates and customers of the Sullivan Cos., from Celia and Robert Sullivan, Ceily, Bobby, Jamie and Charlie Sullivan, $4000
In loving memory of Chris on his birthday Dec. 25, $25
In honor of Thomas, Nicholas and Arianna, $50
In loving memory of Rose, parents, Mary, Joanne and Michael, $20
In loving memory of my husband from Beverly, $100
Heather, Tonya, Jen and families, $100
In memory of all dogs and cats in heaven, $50
In memory of my husband Fred, who loved Christmas from Barbara, $10
Merry Christmas Acadia and Doug, $50
Merry Christmas from Ted and Judi, $25
In loving memory of Matt Devine. Sadly missed on this first Christmas. Love, John and Eileen, $50
For acts of kindness and good deeds, from Mrs. Moriarty’s kindergarten class at Southampton Road Elementary School, Westfield, $50
Wish it could be more, $30
Patti, Susan, Kris and Susan from AIC, $40
In memory of Bob Yvon and Russ Russell. Love, D and DTM, $100
In loving memory of Tony Gittles from Carol and family, $25
In loving memory of Paul Hughes, Nancy, $150
Merry Christmas from Dez and Ken Dempsey, $100
Merry Christmas from the Fryes, $20
Joseph, $25
In memory of my mother and father Nell and Baxter, $25
To all the children, merry Christmas, $25
In memory of our beloved son David, $10
Anonymous, $25
In memory of Dad, Cheryl, Richie, Heidi and Allan Sr., love the Sonoda’s, $50
Thank you Jesus and St. Jude from Irene, $20
To help those who need, $200
Anonymous, $50
In memory of Mary and Bill Cook, $30
For George Jackson, who carried the Christmas spirit all year, from Kathy and Terry, $25
For Tim Dunne, who loved Christmas from Jane and Kathy, $25
In honor of my 27 great-grandchildren, $27
In memory of Anthony F. DeSimone, $100
In loving memory of Ma from Debbie, Paul, Danielle and Michael, $20
For all the kids, $25
YT and Jean, $100
We miss you Lisa, $30
In praise of all animals, $20
From Ladybug and Emmett, $50
Merry Christmas from Gabby Hayes, $25
In memory of Dom and Jack, thanks for the beautiful years, $50
In remembrance of Mae and Donna, $50
In memory of Grandma and Grampa and in memory of Barney and Annie, $10
In memory of Michael C. and Josh D., $50
In lieu of gifts from the Taylor and Gallo families, $220
Merry Christmas and God bless everyone. Thank you for prayers answered, $50
In memory of Fred, $250
Christmas blessings to all, all year long, $50
Peace on earth, one toy at a time, $200
In loving memory of Meme Paquette and so many happy Christmases. Love, Janet, $25
A prayer answered from Claire, $10
In memory of my Dad, Merry Christmas from Paul, $20
In loving memory of Michael Hanetsen, $50
In loving memory of our parents from George and Janet, $100
Merry Christmas from Trish and Bob Griffith, $100
For Emily, Christopher, Kayla, Becky, Natalie, Noelle, Nicholas and Grandpa K, $200
In memory of Ellie Porter. Love, the Porter family, $50
In memory of the Zurowski and Kecki family. Love, Phyllis and Chet, $100
In loving memory of Barbara Rose Schmidt, $100
Merry Christmas from Conor, Kara, Brendan and Brianne, $40
In loving memory of Norman and Madeline Wagner, $50
In loving memory of Arthur Yurko, $20
In memory of Jennie and Aldo Grassetti. We miss you. Love, Es, Ronnie, El, Joan and grandchildren, $30
In memory of Erma Bernardos, Palheiredo family, Louis Moreno family, Chico Georgia and Mitchell Belczyk. Love, Esabel and Anna, $30
In loving memory of Robert Grassetti. I miss you. Love, Esabel and children, $50
Anonymous, $100
Merry Christmas from Cathedral High School girls’ basketball team, $115
MTA Western Office, AnneMarie, Carol S., Carol W., Fred, George, MaryAnne and Nancy, $125
In memory of our dads. Love, Tom and Maria, $25
Merry Christmas from Matthew and Lisa, $250
Bling, Biggie, Pebbles and Bandit say Merry Christmas to all, $25
Happy holidays to all from the students in Mrs. Webster’s Spanish classes at Monson High School, $150
Karen and Howard, $25
Karen, $25
In memory of David and his pals Ziggie and Spike, $100
In loving memory of Gus Adamopoulos who loved Christmas time. We miss you, from Mom, Dad and Ava, $200
Merry Christmas from Carando Foods; donated $700 worth of toys to Salvation Army, $500
Hoping for a safer 2012, no more severe storms, from Accu Finish Orthodontic Lab, $25
Merry Christmas from U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, $500
From Alexis and Estella, $50
In honor of Paula Rapa from the National Honor Society at Central High School, $350
Happy holidays from the employees at OMG Inc., $1028.60
In loving memory of Raymond F. Kennedy from RAK, $45
In loving memory of Ena Flynn, Al Fortin and Brian Fontaine from RAK, $45
East Springfield Oil Co.., $300
From the Lappins. God bless, $65
Anonymous, $20
In loving memory of Fredrick and Kathleen Minie, Sis, Albert and Mary, $25
In loving memory of Joseph Falzone who made every day Christmas, $25
Chicopee School Committee, $105
In memory of Frank and Evelyn Dialessi, $50
In loving memory of Art Jacobson, $50
Thanks to St. Jude for prayers answered, Ann, $10
From the students and staff at Powder Mill Middle School, $316.10
Anonymous, $6
In loving memory of Cain James Cavanaugh, $35
In memory of Leonard Narcisse who passed on Dec. 26, 2007, $5
In memory of all our dear friends and family members, Lapine Multimedia, $100
Joseph and Judith, $25
Spreading the magic of the season, from United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1459 Women’s Network, $1,000
On behalf of the trustees of the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation, $1,000
From the employees of Hampden Engineering Corp., $300
From Hampden Engineering Corp. to match employee contributions, $300
Love Mom, Eileen, $10
In loving memory of William Manegre from his wife Catherine and daughter JoAnne Gould, $10
In memory of John and Mary Ganley. We miss you, your daughter Catherine Manegre and granddaughter JoAnne Gould, $10
In loving memory of William Manegre who passed away in 1974. Sadly missed by wife Catherine Manegre and daughter JoAnne Gould, $10
In loving memory of John and Mary Ganley. Sadly missed by daughter Catherine Manegre and granddaughter JoAnne Gould, $10
In memory of Basil and Eleanor Gould from Walter and Joanne Gould, $3
In memory of Grandpa and Grandma Gould from Robert Gould, $3
In memory of Walter and Bertha Edwards from grandson Walter Gould, $3
In memory of Charles and Helen Edwards from nephew Walter Gould and family, $3
In memory of Joe and Mary Dillon from nephew Walter Gould and family, $3
In memory of Robin Fleming from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Fleming from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Ken Fleming from the Gould family, $3
In memory of our dogs, Buddy, Princess, Toby and Sandy girl from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Grandpa Manegre from grandson Robert Gould, $3
Happy holidays to all my friends from Robert Gould, $3
In memory of Benny Bonnevita from the Gould family, $3
In memory of our neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. H. Hawley from the Gould family, $3
In memory of our neighbor Stan, from the Gould family, $3
In memory of our neighbors Mr. and Mrs. Kwist from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. George Pelletier from the Gould family, $3
In memory of my pal, Josie from Robert Gould, $3
In memory of Mary and Jerry Langone from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Jay Rouis Langone from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Jim Maher from Walter Gould, $3
In memory of Harry Gallerani from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. O’Diorne from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Grandpa Larosa from Robert Gould, $3
In memory of our friend, Anthony Larosa from Joanne and Walter Gould, $3
In memory of our neighbor, Fred Kelleher from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Aunt Gerry and Uncle John and Uncle Paul from the Gould family, $3
In memory of Ciro Langone from the Gould family, $3
Happy holidays to all our friends from the Gould family, $3
To the staff at Tony’s Barber shop in Springfield’s South End. Merry Christmas from Walter and Robert Gould, $3
Thank you to all our customers at Peter Pan gas from manager Walter Gould, $3
Thank you to all of our parkers at Propark from manager Walter Gould, $3
In memory of Ruth Taylor, from sister Cathy, niece JoAnne, nephew Walter and great nephew Robert Gould, $3
In memory of Brian O’Diorne, from the Gould family, $3
In memory of retired Springfield police officer Mike J. Ristaino, $3
To my third Christmas as a Gould family member, Preston, $3
Merry Christmas Boppy. Love, Gavin, $20
Anonymous, $150
In memory of my beloved Guy from Sandi, $25
In memory of my brother Crit and nephew Michael. Miss you, Dianne, $100
In loving memory of Eileen and Laura from Dad, Mom and brother Ernie, $15
Shirley, $20
In loving memory of Richard H., Richard W., and Gloria E. Bragg from Barb and Al, $25
In memory of Nick and Alice Kazantis, $100
Sabina, $50
In memory of my wife Diane Anair, $25
Merry Christmas from Ainsley, $20
Merry Christmas from Ron and Sorayah B., $50
In memory of Nana and Grandpa from CB, $20
Fred and Peggy, $20
Jim, Nancy, Jesse, Ben and the big dog Brewski, $50
For Julia, $25
In loving memory of Grace Mathews, $100
God bless the children from Craig and Barbara, $25
Merry Christmas from Charles, $25
In loving memory of Grandma O’Connor. Love, Christopher and Katie, $10
Merry Christmas to all the little children. Love, Mrs. Duquettes first-graders at Dryden Schoo, Springfieldl, $7
In memory of AJ and Mildred Hutchins and Edward and Carole Howe, $50
“Dr Quack” who loved Christmas, always in my heart, JJ, $100
In memory of Jean Nolan. Missing you. Love, Joni, $100
In memory of Grandma Ruthie Navone, Merry Christmas, $100
In loving memory of John Nolan, Lisa and Ben Contrino and Donna Viens from Don and Bev, $100
To share our blessings, $150
In memory of our parents Anna, Hugh and Jim. Love, Ken and Peg, $25
In memory of Natalie and Bob, $25
For the children with love from Ed and Gail, $25
In memory of Peg and Ted Fournier, $25
In memory of Bill and Estelle Barry, $50
Gods peace to all, $20
Merry Christmas from Joe, Carol, Mike and Matt, $25
In memory of Fiona Dean’s Kane. Love, Dad Bean, $15
In memory of SPC Jeremy Reqnier. Miss and love you, Mom, $15
In loving memory of Mildred and Stephen Bielizna, $10
In memory of Louis Germaine and Dan Salier, $25
Merry Christmas from Deb, $100
Merry Christmas, $2
In memory of Sparky and Grace, John and Ceil from the Armstrong family, $25
Merry Christmas to all children from the MCDI family, Sister Senga, Michelle, Eileen, Dolores, Romanita, Pauline, Allie, Jennie, Kerry, Ray, Dan, Tom and Bonnie, $165
In loving memory of Dora and Marie Lucchesi, $35
Mom, you have been joined by your last sibling Aunt Gloria and Uncle Dick, what a wonderful celebration in heaven this Christmas. Love, Claire, $25
In loving memory of Joseph LaPierre and Rena Pasarcik. Love, Claire and Jim, $25
Loving thoughts of Christmas with Alphee and Bernice Boudreau. Always in our hearts. Love, your family, $25
Mary, $25
In loving memory of my Dad, Raymond Paro. Miss you so much, Gina, $50
Wilbraham Children’s Museum, $100
In memory of Gloria Gomes, $15
Thank you St. Jude, BB, $20
In loving memory of Mom, who loved children and Christmas, $50
This gift is in memory of Tennyson D. Wilson and Eric D. Wilson, $10
Enjoy!, $10
Thank you St. Jude for your intercessions, Billy G and Dottles, $5
Merry Christmas from the wonderful customers and staff at Cooper’s, $400
Mestek employees share their “dressed down” fund, $500
Merry Christmas from the Bontempos, $50
Merry Christmas from Mark, Anne, Anna, Eliza and Sarah Cormier, $70
Kelvin Alexander and Hill Associates, $300
In loving memory of Eddie Lukas (Luke). Miss you bro, $50
In memory of Robin Morris, from the attorneys and staff at the firm of Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, $2170
For Nemo – Always Believe!, $50
To honor Richard C. Garvey, editor, mentor and supporter of Toy for Joy, $50
With thanks for Tracey, the Toy for Joy angel, $50

RECEIVED, $30,371.70
TOTAL TO DATE, $163,425.97

Here is a list of major municipal meetings for the coming week: Agawam Tues.- Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m., Agawam Public Library. Wed.- Community Preservation Committee, 6 p.m., Agawam Public Library. Chicopee Tues.- Zoning Committee, 6:30 p.m., City Hall. Easthampton Tues.- Zoning Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m., 50 Payson Ave. Greenfield Tues.- Franklin County Technical School Policy Subcommittee, 4:30...

File photo | The RepublicanHolyoke City Hall.

Here is a list of major municipal meetings for the coming week:

Agawam

Tues.- Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m., Agawam Public Library.

Wed.- Community Preservation Committee, 6 p.m., Agawam Public Library.

Chicopee

Tues.- Zoning Committee, 6:30 p.m., City Hall.

Easthampton

Tues.- Zoning Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m., 50 Payson Ave.

Greenfield

Tues.- Franklin County Technical School Policy Subcommittee, 4:30 p.m., Library Conference Room.

Board of License Commissioner, 6 p.m., 14 Court Square.

Conservation Commission, 7 p.m., Police Station.

Wed.- Pubic Safety Commission, 6 p.m., 321 High St.

Greenfield Local Cultural Council, 6:30 p.m., 355 Main St.

Hadley

Tues.- Board of Health, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

Hatfield

Thu.- Selectmen, 9 a.m., Memorial Town Hall.

Holyoke

Tues.- Fairfield Avenue Local Historic District Commission, 6:30 p.m., Wistariahurst Museum, carriage house, 238 Cabot St.

Water Commission, 7 p.m., 20 Commercial St.