Hampden District Attorney Mark Mastroianni said the agreement spared the victim's family the ordeal of a trial while guaranteeing Kenyon will not be released until after well after his 72nd birthday.

James R. Kenyon is seen in a Police Department booking photo after being charged with killing Alice M. Connors.

SPRINGFIELD – James R. Kenyon of Westfield must serve a minimum of 20 years in state prison after pleading guilty Thursday to killing his longtime girlfriend in 2010.

Kenyon, 52, pleaded guilty to second degree murder and kidnapping charges in connection with strangulation death of Alice M. Connors in the Northridge Road home they shared.

Judge Richard J. Carey imposed a mandatory life sentence – which carries the possibility of parole in 15 years – on the murder charge, and a five-year term for kidnapping; as part of a plea agreement, Kenyon must serve the kidnapping sentence first, thus guaranteeing a minimum combined term of 20 years.

Hampden District Attorney Mark G. Mastroianni said the agreement spared the victim’s family the ordeal of a trial while guaranteeing that Kenyon will not be released until after well after his 72nd birthday.

Kenyon’s defense lawyer, Charles Groce III, planned to introduce evidence at trial that Kenyon’s mental state was a factor in the killing of Connors, 51, a postal service employee.

An expert witness was also expected to testify that the defendant suffered from chronic depression.

Westfield police said Kenyon admitted, during his 911 telephone call for emergency assistance, strangling Connors inside their 30 Northridge Road home. He admitted to the killing again when police and paramedics arrived at about 11:30 p.m., police said.

The victim was found in the living room, kneeling in front of a couch with a blue cloth belt tied around her neck, according to a police report.

Mastroianni said Connors' family believed that she would not have wanted Kenyon to serve life without parole, given Kenyon’s extensive physical and psychological problems and the fact the couple had been together for nearly 30 years.

No motive for the killing was given by police, but Mastroianni said Kenyon had struggled with alcoholism and was expected to argue at trial that he suffered a blackout during the crime.

This marks toy for Joy's 89th year.

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SPRINGFIELD – The Hampden County Beekeepers Association was sweet to Toy for Joy this year with a donation of $260.

“We always give to Toy for Joy,” says Cheryl Robare, treasurer of the association which has about 110 members.

The association, which has been around for 40 years, raises the money during its annual Christmas party with half the proceeds from the $10 admission going straight to Toy for Joy, according to Robare.

For those interested in such things, Robare said, honey production was down a bit this season due all that rain. It did not, however, deter her organization’s annual effort to help bring joy to children this holiday season.

The association’s message to Toy for Joy reads: “God Bless the World” from the Hampden County Beekeepers Association.

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.

Other contributions included in today’s list of donors include: $50 from the Massachusetts Aviation Association and $200 from state Sen. Stanley Rosenberg, D-Amherst. Rosenberg is another longtime donor to the campaign.

Today’s listings total $3,513 in donations, with $16,897 raised to date.

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 will also be among the volunteers who aid the Salvation Army with registration of families and with distribution of the toys and gifts.

Toy for Joy registrations in Greenfield, Westfield and Northampton formally ended last week. The Salvation Army’s Holyoke Citadel will continue to take registrations through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Greater Springfield Citadel will hold a make-up registration day today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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:
Lin and Bill Donoghue, $100
Merry Christmas to the children, in lieu of adult gifts from Jean and Ellie Belisle, $75
In memory of Nancy Daniele Hoffman from Ken, Laura and Kelly Fellows, $100
In memory of Cappy and Grandma Goodrich, $25
Peace on earth and jobs for all, $20
In loving memory of my dear friend and classmate, Carol Foster McGann, from Jo-ann S. ‘53, $20
In memory of our best friend Rufus, we miss you, $20
Paul and Christine, $25
The Bradys of Montgomery, $200
Have a Merry Christmas from Glenn and Mary Ellen, $20
In memory of my beloved Sue and Beth, $25
Merry Christmas from the Murphys of Agawam and Feeding Hills, $50
Merry Christmas to all from Marilyn, $10
Thank you St. Jude, JM, $10
In memory of our members who have gone west, from Western Mass Aviation Association, $50
In memory of Victor, $10
Merry Christmas to all children, MR, $25
In memory of Mary Murphy Malo, $25
In loving memory of our parents from Bernie and Maureen, $20
In loving memory of Max and William killed in action 1944 Italy, $20
Barbara, $10
In thanks for our beautiful grandson Luca on his first Christmas. All our love, Nonni and Nonno, $25
Howdy, $18
In memory of deceased Thomas and Contrino families, $20
Thank you St. Jude for prayers answered, NW, $10
Memory of Bill Rae from EB Rae, $20
In memory of Celia, wife of John and daughters Jane and Kathleen, $25
Merry Christmas to all the children, $20
In memory of George Ryan and Ed Hanechak from Don and Ray Crowley, $50
In memory of Emile and Ginny Grenier, we miss you from the Strole’s, $25
In loving memory of my beautiful doll, Laurie A. Presz, from David R. Presz, $25
A friend, $25
In memory of Nelson and Lora Wiers, $20
Wishing all a happy, healthy holiday from George and Joan, Wales, $25
In memory of Dad Stebbins. Love, Don and Sue, $25
In memory of Pops and Bob. Love, Don and Sue, $25
Antonio and Deborah, $250
Thomas and Patricia, $25
Merry Christmas to all. Love, Paul and Debbie, $25
Merry Christmas from Edwin and Chris, $50
Tata, you are always on my mind. There’s not a day I don’t think about you. Mss you, from Carmen, $25
In memory of Mom and Dad from Betty and Carol, $20
For my grandkids, Carey and James Marshall, $100
Merry Christmas from Claudia and Harry Mc, $20
In memory of Chris and Paul Gehring, $50
In memory of Jonathan Carroll, $25
In memory of Jess Kelleher, $25
They were residents of Springfield for years from Sheleen and Kevin, $50
In loving memory of Dennis. Love, Jackie, $25
In memory of Betty Harper from Carol and Albert, $20
In loving memory of Donald Fairbanks, $100
In memory of Ronald and Steven Guiel, $25
In memory of Steve and Geri, $25
In memory of William M. Herchuck Sr. Love, Sheila, Susan and Julie, $100
In memory of Stella and Stanley Kapecki, $25
James and Barbra, $40
In memory of Joe, Nana and Michael from Valley Farm, $30
God bless the world from Hampden County Beekeeper Assoc., $260
God bless, $20
In memory of Edward and Lillian Noonan who loved children, $100
Merry Christmas from Sally, $10
In loving memory of David Mosellen, $100
Happy holidays to all from Meme and Papa Wands, $20
For Peggy and the family, $20
Memories of happy times with our children, Bob and Dee, $25
In memory of my son Raymond, $10
Merry Christmas from Lily, Molly and Guinness, $25
In loving memory of Paul Hoppe, Dad, Ma and kids, $25
Peter and Jane, $30
In memory of my Dad, the big man from Ballydavid and my Mom, the lady from Moorestown, Dingle, County Kerry, Ireland, $20
In memory of Pierre Finnegan, Melvin and Kelsey. Love, Monkey and Milton, $350
In loving memory of Charles, Josephine and Marlene Miller, $25
Wishing all a happy holiday and joy in the New Year, from Sen. Stan Rosenberg and staff, $200

RECEIVED, $3,513
TOTAL TO DATE, $16,897
STILL NEEDED, $133,103

Toy for Joy is in its 89th year.

Mark M. Murray / The Republican2/08/11 Springfield - Employees from the Hasbro Company, were on hand to help off load a truck load of toys at the Greater Springfield Salvation Army Citadel at 170 Pearl Street Thursday, they are from left to right, William Kilty, Patrick Wynn, and Shawn Jones.

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SPRINGFIELD – The toys are here!

The gymnasium at the Salvation Army’s Greater Springfield Citadel was jammed with boxes this week as truckload after truckload of toys, games and books arrived for the Toy for Joy holiday campaign.

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.

Hasbro employees have been among the those helping with the registration of families and the unloading of trucks that arrived here with shipments on Tuesday and Thursday.

“We enjoy coming down here every year,” said Hasbro employee Shawn Jones, one of about six volunteers helping to unload a shuttle of tractor-trailer trucks from Hasbro’s East Longmeadow plant.

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.

Registrations for the program here and in Holyoke, Westfield, Northampton and Greenfield are formally over. Toy distribution for those in the Greater Springfield area begins on Tuesday.

Toy for Joy relies on donations made by readers of The Republican and Masslive.com. The most recent batch of donations tally to $1,634, bringing the total raised to date to $18,531. That leaves $131, 469 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 memory of our granddaughter Morgan Kyleigh Rooney, Merry Christmas in heaven little angel, Babci and Dziadzu, $100
Happy holidays from Sandy Kane, $50
Nancy, $30
In memory of Tiz and Gus. Love, Aimee, $25
In memory of Ted and his parents, $10
Nancy, $10
Merry Christmas to all, from Jackie, $5
Happy holidays and best wishes from Richard, $20
In memory of Tom Egan Jr. on your 10th anniversary from your loving family, $20
In memory of Nanny and Gramp from 13 special grandchildren, $20
In memory of Big Ed, Lorraine and Shirley, $100
Elmo Wilson, I keep you in my heart every day. I love you and miss you much, $25
In loving memory of Donald C. Couchon, $30
In memory of the family from Lee, $10
Loving memory of Dorothy and Stanley Gruszczynski. Love, Sandy, $20
The two most amazing grandchildren, Ethan Paul and Lilah Mae Smith. Love, Amma and Boppa, $20
In memory of Don Sullivan, $50
In loving memory of Shirley and George Wrinkle and Susan Muller from Grace, Christopher and Lucas, $30
In loving memory of my daughter Debby Curry, $10
In memory of Tony Pa. Love, Allie, Dave and Carrie, $25
In loving memory of John P. Toohey. Love, Pats, $100
Thank you St. Jude for prayers answered, CPO, $20
In memory of my brother Michael F. Rybczyk, $100
In memory of Barbara from the Garden Club Girls, $10
Merry Christmas Christopher L, $50
Happy holidays to all children in Springfield, $249
In memory of Heidi Langille, love Mother, $25
In memory of John and Evelyn Lanier, $25
Thankful for Alaina, Aaron, Brady and Brett, $25
Always happy to help, $10
In loving memory of Joanne JR, Sue, $5
In loving memory of my parents Potoula and Sotiri from Sue, $20
In memory of Stanley and Nellie Lysik 2011, $10
In memory of Henry and Alice Roberts 2011, $10
In memory of Janet Lysik, Aunt Jean Dupuis and Tanya Dennis 2011, $10
In memory of Paul Borkowski, Rich Watson, Bonhomme Dulude, Bruce Crowther and Tom Poulin 2011, $10
Philip and Carolynn, $200
In loving memory of Joseph Misiaszek, his son John, and his grandsons Benjamin MacDougall, Jonathan and Louis Hyder, $25
In loving memory of Brian R. Judd Jr. and Charles R. Getchell from their family, $25
In memory of my great grandma Jane Spiewait. Love, Giovanna, $25
For Adam, Nat, Ben, Andy and Ali, $25
In loving memory of our grandfather Joseph Misiaszek with love from Kristin, Mike, Holly Beth and Levi and RJ, too, $25
Lottie, $20

RECEIVED, $1,634
TOTAL TO DATE, $18,531
STILL NEEDED, $131,469

Available free cash amounts to just over $2.4 million.

File photo | The RepublicanWestfield City Hall.

WESTFIELD – Mayor Daniel M. Knapik will ask the City Council next week to approve spending more than $500,000 of available free cash to finance vehicle replacements and school maintenance projects.

The state Department of Revenue last week certified city free cash, from fiscal 2011, at $2,453,013.

A request for $95,000 will allow the city to lease, towards purchase, two sanitation trucks for the Department of Public Works, a move Knapik and DPW Superintendent James M. Mulvenna said will save the city a considerable sum.

Mulvenna estimated the cost of the two vehicles, if purchased, at $438,000. But, he said the lease-to-own program will save the city in terms of interest and bonding cost. The lease, he said will be paid over a five-year period at which time the city will own the trucks.

“We have purchased new vehicles, a front loader and dump truck, this way in the past two years,” said Mulvenna.

Knapik said he will request another $126,000 to replace two command vehicles and a vehicle for the department mechanic at the Fire Department.

Chief Mary R. Regan said additional vehicle needs are expected to be addressed in the department’s Fiscal 2013 budget.

“The vehicles being replaced now are at least 10 years old and are approaching, or passed, 100,000 miles each,” she said referring the mechanic, chief’s and deputy chief’s vehicles.

One truck the department is looking to replace is the 23-year-old platform vehicle.

Regan said a new platform may be worthy of a lease program since the projected cost is more than $1.2 million.

“The problem with this vehicle is the cost of maintenance,” the chief said, referring to recent hydrolic system repairs. “Unexpected repairs between $7,000 and $10,000 is painful,” she said.

A free cash expenditure of $300,000 will restore funding to the School Department maintenance accounts, Knapik said.

“This will restore funding that was not provided last year and this year and allow the department to attend to maintenance needs,” the mayor said.

Knapik will also ask for $30,000 to finance asbestos removal in two antiquated buildings at Barnes Regional Airport. The buildings, formerly used by the Civil Air Patrol, will be razed to prepare the site for development.

The marks Toy for Joy's 89th year.

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SPRINGFIELD – McNeill Heating and Air Conditioning of West Springfield did a cool thing and once again gave some heat to the Toy for Joy campaign with a generous donation.

Sue Horton, secretary to the company, said Toy for Joy has figured prominently in its holiday giving.

Owner Jim McNeill “wants to give to those in need,” she said. “Especially this time of year.”

McNeill gave $125 to the Toy for Joy campaign.

The largest donation for this particular batch, $500, is accompanied today with the message “Go Holyoke!”

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.

In teaming up 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 also among the volunteers who aid the Salvation Army with registration of families and with distribution of the toys and gifts.

Toy for Joy donations tally to date to $22,017, leaving $127,983 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:
Merry Christmas from Alistair, $25
In honor of my Mother and Father from Janet, $25
In memory of Larry Cavanaugh, $25
Merry Christmas Riley and Delaney, love Grandpa and Grandmere, $75
In memory of Grandpa and Grandma Malanson and Alice Driscoll from the Malanson family, $5
In memory of Annette Lortie and Christine Beshaw, $100
Happy Holidays from Mary, $25
Go Holyoke, $500
In loving memory of Enis MacLeod, Hank and Ann Pounckun, Dick Blanchette and Carol MacLeod, $55
In memory of my Mom, Janet Lempart, love Linda, $20
For the children instead of sending Holiday cards, Linda and Rene, $20
In appreciation to Larry Habernch from the Movie Group, $100
In honor of anyone spending Christmas alone, $10
In memory of Stanley and Jessica Ciak, $20
Merry Christmas to all, Ethan, William, Clara and Owen, $100
In loving memory of Debra Buchanan from her Mom, $100
In memory of Joseph R. Paquette, $25
In memory of Scott, $10
Anonymous, $25
In memory of Lee Pilon, $10
In loving memory of Grandpa Nante, Mashea, Auntie Carol and Ma, JS, $100
In memory of Donald and Ann Beaudry, $150
From Fontaine Bros, $100
Happy Holidays from M and C, $50
From Chloe and “The Munch”, $25
Anonymous, $25
In memory of Armand, Alice, Darlene Corbeil, Albert Santaniello from Peggy and Roland Corbeil, $50
In memory of my parents Sid and Jean Crossland, $25
Audrey, $20
In memory of Alice Rodriques, Carmen Adams, Amelia Braica and Alice and Kathy Girard, $20
Happy Holidays to all, $30
Thank you Katie Girard, Merry Christmas, Sam Cox, $10
In memory of Henry Tetreault by his wife Marie, $10
In loving memory of Edwin W. Allen, $10
In loving memory of my parents Stanley and Angela Skorka, $100
Loving memory of Charles Cleary, Merry Christmas to all, $15
God bless you and Merry Christmas, $25
In memory of Bill Jekot, love Mom, $100
In loving memory of Chip Grimaldi from family, $50
In memory of Mom and Dad who always made Christmas special, $50
Merry Christmas in heaven to Vo-Vo Joe and Vo-Vo Lilly with love from Cole and Ava, $20
Anonymous, $200
Your sadly missed Emery, Jeanne and Bob, $20
In loving memory of Richard and Mary Bourque and Maureen, $25
Christmas blessings to all from Fiona-Lily, $25
In memory of Shirley, $50
In memory of Genevieve Vaz, $20
Anyone can be Santa, $100
In memory of our grandparents Gertrude and Edward, $50
In memory of our beloved daughters Kristen and Kimberly, love Mom and Dad, $25
In memory of all our deceased relatives, love Rich and Maureen, $25
In memory of Judy Savas and Sandra Rogers from Pat and Gloria, $50
In memory of Ruth and Stella Welcome and thanks for Johnathan, $15
Memory of Guy Wentworth from friend Walter Cotton, $20
Cheryl, $15
WSO, $20
Happy Holidays to Mrs. Mengwassen at BHS, love Rachel Freedman, $10
Merry Christmas Moma and Poppy, love Jacob, Sam and Rachel, $50
Jeff, $10
In memory of Ginny and Charlie Hebda, Nick Rusellie and Joan Sharpe, $1
From Duke and Pudge, $20
In memory of Dorothy L. Kleczek, $20
In memory of Agatha and Stanley Kleczek, $20
In memory of Grandma B, Muriel Burns, you are missed, $20
In memory of Bill Buzzee from Dave, $20
In memory of the Troll and Chide, $100
David, $70
In memory of Paul from Uncle Bruno and Aunt Ann, $100
McNeill Heating and Air Conditioning Co., $125

RECEIVED, $3,486
TOTAL TO DATE, $22,017
STILL NEEDED, $127,983

Here is a list of major municipal meetings for the coming week: Agawam Mon.- Board of Appeals, 6:30 p.m., Agawam Public Library. Tues.- Agawam Cultural Council, 7 p.m., Agawam Public Library. School Committee 7 p.m., Roberta G. Doering School. Amherst Mon.- Select Board, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall. Tues.- Public Shade Tree Committee, 4 p.m., Town Hall. Agricultural Commission, 7...

File photo | The RepublicanHolyoke City Hall.

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

Agawam

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

Tues.- Agawam Cultural Council, 7 p.m., Agawam Public Library.

School Committee 7 p.m., Roberta G. Doering School.

Amherst

Mon.- Select Board, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall.

Tues.- Public Shade Tree Committee, 4 p.m., Town Hall.

Agricultural Commission, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

Amherst Regional School Committee, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

Thu.- Board of Health, 7 p.m., Bangs Community Center.

Chicopee

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

Easthampton

Thu.- Development and Industrial Committee, 5 p.m., 50 Payson Ave.

Community Preservation Act Committee, 6:30 p.m., 50 Payson Ave.

Granby

Tues.- School Council, 6 p.m., High School Media Center.

Charter Day Committee, 7 p.m., Public Safety Building.

Wed.- School Council, 3:15 p.m., West Street School.

Greenfield

Mon.- Human Rights Commission, 6 p.m., 14 Court Square.

Appointments and Ordinance Committee, 6:30 p.m., Police Station.

Four Rivers School Board of Trustees, 7 p.m., 248 Colrain Road.

Tues.- Board of Assessors, 8:30 a.m., 14 Court Square.

Franklin Conservation Commission, 10 a.m., 8 Conway St., South Deerfield.

Greenfield Redevelopment Authority, 4:30, 114 main St.

Franklin County Technical School Superintendent Search Committee, 5:30 p.m., Library Conference Room.

Greenfield Public Library Board of Trustees, 5:30 p.m., Library.

School Building Committee, 6:30, Greenfield Library.

Conservation Commission, 7 p.m., 114 Main St.

Wed.- Ways and Means Committee, 6 p.m., Police Station.

Board of Health, 6:45 p.m., Town Hall.

Town Council, 7 p.m., 393 Main St.

Thu.- Council on Aging, 2 p.m., Senior Center.

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

Planning Board, 7 p.m., 321 High St.

Hadley

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

Conservation Commission, 7 p.m., Senior Center.

Wed.- Long Range Planning Implementation Committee, 7 p.m., Senior Center.

Hadley Housing Authority, 7 p.m., Golden Court.

Hatfield

Mon.- Planning Board, 7:30 p.m., Memorial Town Hall.

Tues.- School Committee, 6:30 p.m., Smith Academy.

Wed.- Board of Health, 5:30 p.m., Memorial Town Hall.

Capital Improvement Planning Committee, 3 p.m., Memorial Town Hall.

Thu.- School Council, 6:45 a.m., Smith Academy.

Holyoke

Mon.- Board of Health, noon, City Hall, City Council Chambers.

Subcommittee of School Committee and City Council, 5:30 p.m., Dean Technical High School, 1045 Main St., Fifield Community Room.

Water Commission, 6:30 p.m., 20 Commercial St.

Board of Assessors, tax classification hearing, 6:30 p.m., City Hall, City Council Chambers.

Tues.- Fire Commission, 3:30 p.m., Fire Department headquarters, 600 High St.

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

Thu.- Council on Aging, board of directors, 10 a.m., War Memorial, 310 Appleton St.

Donahue School Improvement Council, 5:30 p.m., 210 Whiting Farms Road.

Monson

Mon.- Assessors, 4:15 p.m., Hillside School.

Tues.- Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Hillside School.

Wed.- School Committee, 7 p.m., Quarry Hill Community School.

Thu.- Zoning Board of Appeals, 7:30 p.m., Hillside School.

Northampton

Mon.- Committee on Appointments and Evaluations, 11:15 a.m., Council Chambers.

Committee on Social Services and Veterans Affairs, 5 p.m., Council Chambers.

Committee on Elections, Rules, Ordinances, Orders and Claims, 6 p.m., Council Chambers.

Leeds School Council, 5:30 p.m., Leeds Elementary School.

Lilly Library Board of Trustees, 6:30 p.m., Lilly Library.

Northampton Housing Authority, 7:30 p.m., 49 Old South St.

Tues.- Central Hampshire Veterans Services, 2 p.m., City Hall.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Subcommittee, 7:30 a.m., City Hall.

Wed.- Board of Public Works, 5:30 p.m., 125 Locust St.

Charter Drafting Committee, 6 p.m., City Hall.

Comcast and NCTV Annual Performance Review, 7 p.m., Council Chambers.

Bridge Street School Council, 4:30 p.m., Bridge Street School.

Thu.- City Council, 7:15 p.m., Council Chambers.

Board of Health, 5 p.m., City Hall.

Palmer

Mon.- Town Council, 7 p.m., Town Building.

Tues.- Board of Health, 6 p.m., Town Building.

Wed.- School Committee, 6 p.m., Palmer High School.

South Hadley

Mon.- Board of Assessors, 9 a.m., Town Hall.

Superintendent Search Screening Committee, 4 p.m., High School Library.

Council on Aging, 4 p.m. 45 Dayton St.

Fire District 1 Prudential Committee, 6:15 p.m., 144 Newton St.

Library Building Committee, 6:15 p.m., Public Library.

Planning Board Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall 204.

Selectboard and Fire District 2 Officers, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

Tues.- Ledges Review Ad Hoc Committee, 6:30 p.m., Police Station School Committee, 6:30 p.m., High School Library.

Wed.- Smith Middle School Council, 5 p.m., Middle School Conference Room.

Superintendent Search Screening Committee, 5:30 p.m., High School Library.

Thu.- Memorial Day Planning Advisory Committee, 4 p.m., Town Hall, second floor.

Fire District Prudential Committee, 6 p.m., 144 Newton St.

Southwick

Mon.- Board of Selectmen, 6 p.m., Town Hall.

Tues.- Sewer Committee, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

Wed.- Emergency Management Agency, 7 p.m., Town Hall.

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

Warren

Mon.- Housing Authority, 7 p.m., community room.

Tues.- Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m., Shepard Municipal Building.

Wed.- Planning Board, 6 p.m., Shepard Municipal Building.

Thu.- Capital Planning Committee, 7 p.m., Shepard Municipal Building.

West Springfield

Mon.- Park and Recreation Commission, 7 p.m., municipal building.

Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m., municipal building.

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

Tues.- Community Preservation Committee, 5 p.m., municipal building.

School Committee, 7 p.m., municipal building.

Board of Library Trustees, 6 p.m., West Springfield Public Library.

Wed.- Town Council study session regarding library project, 4 p.m., municipal building.

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

Westfield

Mon.- School Building Committee, 6 p.m., School Department, 22 Ashley St.

Police Commission, 7 p.m., City Hall.

Tues.- Board of Public Works, 7 p.m., City Hall.

Wed.- Board of Health, 7 p.m., City Hall.

Thu.- City Council, 7 p.m., City Hall.

The marks Toy for Joy's 89th season.

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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

William K. Tatro, pictured here, vice president of the Friends of the Westfield Senior Center group, said the organization is launching a series of fundraising events to raise money to furnish the city's new Senior Center.

WESTFIELD – They are starting out small, $1 at a time, but the ultimate goal of the Friends of the Westfield Senior Center is to raise $500,000 toward furnishing of a new facility.

William K. Tatro

The group, about 100 strong, will launch what will become a series of fundraising events next week, members William K. Tatro and Susan M. Szenda said this week.

The group has accepted responsibility of raising funding needed to outfit a new Senior Center the city plans to build within the next two years. Construction of a new center is estimated at $6 million. Property on Noble Street, owned by the Westfield Housing Authority, has been selected as the site for the new center.

The first event is “Dining To Donate” to be held Wednesday at the Applebee’s Restaurant at the Westfield Shops on East Main Street. It is scheduled for 3 to 5 p.m. and patrons who present a special event flyer will see 15-percent of their bill donated to the friends group.

The flyer is available at the Council on Aging office at City Hall, St. John’s Senior Center Relocation Site and on the city’s website www.cityofwestfield.org.

“The flyer must be obtained first and presented to the server at Applebee’s,” said Tatro, vice president of the group.

“We are starting our financial campaign small but we intend to also apply for any available grants to help reach our goal,” he said.

Szenda added “the beginning may appear to be small but our support is growing. Yes, it is $1 at a time but every dollar adds to the goal.”

Tatro and Szenda said many events will be scheduled throughout the year and next. Currently, plans are being finalized for a social gathering and dancing at Shaker Farms Country Club in March.

The Senior Center Building Committee has secured the services of Diversified Project Management Inc. of Newton to assist in creation of the new center. The new facility will replace the current center, located at 40 Main St., that opened in 1983.

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

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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 blaze was reported shortly after 8 a.m. near 1200 East Mountain Road

Submitted photo | Katie Haydocy Pais12.13.2011 | WESTFIELD - A car fire on East Mountain Road Tuesday morning.

WESTFIELD – A college student escaped injury Tuesday morning when his car caught fire on East Mountain Road.

Deputy Chief Mark Devine said that a fellow northbound motorist traveling just ahead of the student, looked in his rearview mirror, saw flames coming from the engine compartment, stopped his own vehicle and waved the student down.

The fire quickly traveled into the passenger compartment and shortly after the student got out it was engulfed in flames. The blaze was reported shortly after 8 a.m. in the area of 1200 Mountain Road, Devine said.

“The car is totally destroyed,” Devine said, adding that the student’s biggest concern was whether he would be able to retrieve school-work from his laptop computer which had partially melted.

Additional repairs worth $3 million are planned for next spring.

The Republican file photo | John SuchockiWestfield City Hall

WESTFIELD – Emergency repairs to prevent additional water damage inside City Hall got underway this week with more extensive repairs scheduled later.

Work began on Monday to repair two sections of the building’s slate roof and brick facade.

City Purchaser Tammy B. Tefft said the $193,000 project is expected to be completed before severe winter weather sets in. Emergency repairs are being done by Greenwood Enterprises of Milbury.

Tefft said work on design for an estimated $3.2 million in extensive repairs to the building, built in the 1800s, are nearing competition and scheduled to be advertised for competitive bidding in February.

Tammy B. Tefft

That work will involve full replacement of the building’s slate roof, new gutters and windows.

“The objective is to have this work begin with the start of the new construction season,” Mayor Daniel M. Knapik has said.

The City Council approved bonding $3.4 million for City Hall repairs last month. Several city officials have said the project is the first comprehensive repairs to the building in at least 30 years.

In 2009, the city completed a $32,000 emergency repair to the City Council Chambers to replace a ceiling support beam.

Emergency repairs now underway focus on a rear entrance to the building that leads to the Retirement Board offices and another area above a records storage area.

Knapik said he plans to seek funding later for some interior renovation to several offices once repairs to the exterior of the building is complete.

“We first must stop the water from entering the building before any interior work can be accomplished,” the mayor said.

The West Springfield-based company gave $500.

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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.

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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

Eleven cities and towns in central and western Massachusetts will receive state aide to help pay for the damage from the June 1 tornadoes.

BOSTON - Gov. Deval L. Patrick Thursday released $14 million to cities and towns to pay for municipal costs for damage caused by the June 1 tornadoes including about $8.7 million for Springfield, $1.8 million for Monson and $1.7 million for Wilbraham.

A total of $10.1 million comes from an Oct. 27 spending bill approved by the state Legislature and Patrick. That money will be used for debris removal, leasing of temporary school buildings, emergency response, maintenance and repairs.

Another $3.9 million is from the state Department of Transportation and will reimburse eight communities for emergency road, sidewalk and other repairs.

Grants from the $10.1 million include Agawam, $55,671; Brimfield, $170,591; East Longmeadow, $14,100; Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District, $16,594; Holland, $4,652; Monson, $1,249,784; Southbridge, $35,405; Springfield, $7,324,611; Sturbridge, $104,280; West Springfield, $171,503; Westfield, $179,253; and Wilbraham, $775,008.

The transportation department grants include:

Springfield: $1,363,400 -- Debris removal, sidewalk repair on 43 roadways.

West Springfield: $200,000 --Union Street and Main Street.

Brimfield: $449,000 -- Holland Road, East Brimfield Road, Warren Road, Main Street.

Monson: $519,000 -- Ely Road, High Street, Main Street, Hampden Upper, Wilbraham Road.

Southbridge: $150,000- Pleasant Street/Airport Access Road.

Sturbridge: $172,000- Fiske Hill Road.

Westfield: $70,000- Shaker Road, Pontussic Road.

Wilbraham: $956,000- Main Street, Stony Hill Road, Tinkham Drive, Rochford Drive.

Toy for Joy donations tally to $36,727

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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

“Al Ferst gave a new meaning to philanthropy,” former Mayor Richard Sullivan said. “He touched generations of kids here and will continue to do so.”

An updated version of this story is now available at MassLive.

Westfield philanthropist Albert F. Ferst greets a Girl Scout Thursday during Daisy Girl Scout Troop 11405's Christmas caroling trip to Reed's Landing retirement complex in Springfield, where Ferst lived, He died on Friday.

WESTFIELD – Albert F. and Amelia A. Ferst made a world of difference to Westfield, especially its children.

Albert Ferst died Friday morning at the age of 92. Amelia Ferst died in 1997.

Ferst’s passing was called a “great loss to the city of Westfield” by everyone who knew him. Both have left an enormous legacy that Westfield will benefit from generations to come, from the Amelia Park complex off South Broad Street that supports Amelia Ice Rink, Children’s Museum, Amelia Park Garden, the Albert and Amelia Ferst Boys and Girls Club and an outdoor skateboard park to the Interfaith Center on the campus of Westfield State University and Samaritan Inn homeless shelter on Free Street.

“Between Al and Millie, they did more for Westfield, especially the kids, than any other individual,”said former Mayor Richard K. Sullivan, who is now the state's energy and environmental secretary. “Al’s first love was Millie but his second was Westfield,” he said.

Mayor Daniel M. Knapik characterized Ferst as “a legend and a giant in Westfield. this city is much better off because of his presence.

“It is a real sad day in Westfield,” Knapik said.

State Sen. Michael R. Knapik, R-Westfield, said “as sad a day it is, we know that Al is now with the lover of his life Millie.”

“Al Ferst gave a new meaning to philanthropy,” Sullivan said. “He touched generations of kids here and will continue to do so.”

“He was a long time supporter of youth teams and youth programs and he and Millie have left a legacy that will benefit Westfield forever,” former mayor Sullivan said.

“Westfield has lost a philanthropist of the highest caliber,” Sen. Knapik said. “He was a stellar citizen. He was a local boy done good, created a great business and then giving back to his community.” In 1952 Ferst and his wife purchased Camfour Inc., a wholesale sporting goods company, here and later sold it.

Boys and Girls Club director William R. Parks said “the Boys and Girls Club has lost a great friend. The city and all the charities he was involved in have lost a great friend.”

City Council member Bret B. Bean II, who served on the Amelia Park board of directors, called Ferst “a man dedicated to the city of Westfield. He was extremely kind and just a generous person.”

One thing Ferst became to be known for in the last 10 years was his gift giving to children at every function he attended. It started with passing out sliver dollars, then gold coins, Beanie Babies, and most recently $2 bills in certificate folders.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete.

More details coming in The Republican.

Mayor Daniel Knapik characterized Ferst as “a legend and a giant in Westfield.

This is an updated version of a story posted at 3 this afternoon.

Westfield philanthropist Albert F. Ferst greets a Girl Scout Thursday during Daisy Girl Scout Troop 11405's Christmas caroling trip to Reed's Landing retirement complex in Springfield, where Ferst lived. He died on Friday.

WESTFIELD – Albert F. and Amelia ‘Millie’ A. Ferst dedicated themselves to children and making their lives better through philanthropic initiatives, most notably, the $6 million Amelia Park ice skating arena and adjacent Amelia Garden.

Albert Ferst, 92, died Friday morning at Reeds Landing in Springfield. Amelia Ferst died in 1997.

“The park was his greatest and proudest achievement,” Barbara H. Braem-Jensen, a longtime friend, said of Albert Ferst. “It was just so special to him,” she added.

Ferst’s passing was called a “great loss to the city of Westfield” by everyone who knew him. Both have left an enormous legacy that Westfield will benefit from generations to come, from the Amelia Park complex off South Broad Street that supports Amelia Ice Rink, Children’s Museum, Amelia Park Garden, the Albert and Amelia Ferst Boys and Girls Club and an outdoor skateboard park to the Interfaith Center on the campus of Westfield State University and Samaritan Inn homeless shelter on Free Street.

“Between Al and Millie, they did more for Westfield, especially the kids, than any other individual,” former Mayor Richard K. Sullivan said. “Al’s first love was Millie but his second was Westfield,” he said.

Braem-Jensen described Ferst as “a legend in his own time. His death is a huge loss for me, the community and all the rest who cared about him. His inspiration came from his wife and the great love he had for her.”

Mayor Daniel M. Knapik characterized Ferst as “a legend and a giant in Westfield. This city is much better off because of his presence.

“It is a real sad day in Westfield,” Knapik said.

State Sen. Michael R. Knapik, R-Westfield, said “as sad a day it is, we know that Al is now with the love of his life Millie.”

“Al Ferst gave a new meaning to philanthropy,” Sullivan said. “He touched generations of kids here and will continue to do so,” he added.

“He was a long time supporter of youth teams and youth programs and he and Millie have left a legacy that will benefit Westfield forever,” former mayor Sullivan said.

“Westfield has lost a philanthropist of the highest caliber,” Sen. Knapik said. “He was a stellar citizen. He was a local boy done good, created a great business and then giving back to his community.” In 1952 Ferst and his wife purchased Camfour Inc., a wholesale sporting goods company, here and later sold it.

David A. Amanti, a close friend, regarded Ferst as “a teacher, mentor, philanthropist...someone who our generation tries to emulate. Al taught us that monetary value means nothing. He wanted to be able to share his good fortune.”

Amanti said today should be a happy day. “Al got his wish. Al is where he wants to be - with Millie.”

Boys and Girls Club director William R. Parks said “the Boys and Girls Club has lost a great friend. The city and all the charities he was involved in have lost a great friend.”

City Council member Brent B. Bean II, who served on the Amelia Park board of directors, called Ferst “a man dedicated to the city of Westfield. He was extremely kind and just a generous person.”

One thing Ferst became to be known for in at least the last 10 years was his gift giving to children at every function he attended. It started with passing out sliver dollars, then gold coins, Beanie Babies, and most recently $2 bills in certificate folders.

In 2000 when he was honored with the William Pynchon Award because of distinguished public service. In 2005 when he was inducted into the Massachusetts Hockey Hall of fame because of his creation of Amelia Park ice arena which many called the ‘Taj Mahal’ of ice rinks.

Ferst leaves a son Bradley A. Ferst of Dallas Tx., a daughter Patricia f. Kanzinger and her husband Russ of Wilbraham, two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by a son Jeffrey A. Ferst, three brothers, Julius, William and Henry Ferst and a sister Helen Laxton.

The funeral will be Sunday at 2 p.m. in St. John’s Lutheran Church, 60 Broad St., Westfield. Burial will be at St. John’s Cemetery and will be private. There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Albert and Amelia Ferst Charitable Foundation, in care of Berkshire Bank, 31 Court St., Westfield, Ma. 01085 or the Amelia Park Ice Arena, 21 South Broad St., Westfield.

Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad St., Westfield is handling the of arrangements.

The WSU dining commons served more than 1,000 people daily following the October snowstorm.

Photo by Ted LaBorde / The RepublicanMaria Lees, Westfield State University dining commons manager, left and Sandra Lee Sporbert, center look on Thursday as Westfield Mayor Daniel M. Knapik presents a proclamation to the staff of the dining commons in recognition of their community service during the October snowstorm.

WESTFIELD – “Feeding people is our job,” Maria Lees, dinning commons manager at Westfield State University said.

That was her response to Mayor Daniel M. Knapik who stopped by the commons early Thursday to thank Lees and her 168-member staff for their service to the community following the October snowstorm.

“In my 17 years here that was the first extraordinary emergency,” said Lees. “We opened the doors of this dining facility to the community and served well over 1,000 meals each day for that week no one had power,” she said.

“Westfield is blessed to have you here,” Knapik told Lees and the dining crew. “The university and the dinning commons were invaluable during that time of need,” he said.

“I thank you on behalf of the community for your hospitality. You provide outstanding food at a cheap price,” the mayor said.

A proclamation Knapik delivered to Lees recognizes the dining facility, managed by Sodexo Dining Services, for its “contribution of assistance in the city’s emergency situation.”

“ A lot of really, really good people who didn’t realize we were here before came for meals and a warm place,” said Sandra Lee Sporbert who works at the commons. “We were here every day starting at 6 a.m. and they were so grateful. But, we only did what we do. I did enjoy the hugs they gave us,” she said.

Lees called the opening of the dining commons to the public “wonderful. This is something I have been trying to do for many years. We should be connected to the community,” she said.

During the week following the storm, the university also opened two shelters, one at Juniper Park School and the other at Scanlon Hall, serving more than 500 residents.

The dining hall remained open 24-hours that Saturday, Sunday and Monday and then was open to the public from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. the remainder of that week.

More than 100 children received toys through the event.

The Republican/John SuchockiThe Agawam Senior Center on Main Street was where children and parents connected to the military came to pick out toys for Christmas. Jessica Lopez, of Chicopee, who is with the Westover Air Reserve watches as her two daughters, Emani, 5, and Mya, 7, get their presents wrapped by volunteers. In the background is Fred Andrews of the Gold Star Fathers and on the right is volunteer Samatha Ferreira; they are from the Fall River Military Smiles Project which brought the gifts to the center.

AGAWAM – The Senior Center was transformed into a toy store on Saturday for local military families and veterans.

The “Operation Military Smiles” project was coordinated by several Gold Star mothers from Fall River, whose sons were killed while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, with the help of the Military Friends Foundation. More than 100 children received gifts through the event.

“This is awesome,” said Jessica M. Lopez, of Chicopee, a reservist at Westover Air Reserve Base.

Lopez, who is studying to be a nurse, brought her three daughters - Mya, 7; Emani, 5; and Jalani, 4. Mya and Emani helped wrap their presents so they could put them under their Christmas tree at home. Mya said she picked out a princess coloring pad, a puzzle and markers.

“It gives my kids an opportunity to get gifts I wouldn’t be able to get this year,” Lopez said.

Benjamin Torres, of Springfield, a retired Army sergeant, picked out toys including a Scrabble game and baseball game for his four children.

“Every little bit helps this time of year,” Torres said.

Adam C. and Jessica M. Miner, of Chicopee, were picking out stocking stuffers, including two pairs of eyeglasses with jiggling eyeballs for their 10-year-old son, who likes pranks.

“It’s nice they’re doing this for everyone,” Adam Miner, a member of the Army National Guard in Agawam, said.

The Republican/John SuchockiThe Agawam Senior Center on Main Street was where children and parents connected to the military came to pick out toys for Christmas. Adam C. Miner and his wife Jessica M.Miner of Chicopee look over childrens games. Miner serves with the National Guard Company 181 in Agawam.

The idea for the toy giveaway came from Carlene A. Barrett, of Fall River, whose 20-year-old son Robert was killed in Afghanistan in 2010. He was a sergeant with the Army National Guard, and he had asked her to send toys for children in an orphanage there. But before he got them, he was killed on patrol by a suicide bomber - he had only been there a month.

“My husband wanted to do something and we decided on this,” Barrett said.

“If we can help them one day and put a smile on their face, this is what it’s all about,” she added. “I hope we can keep doing this for years to come.”

Another Gold Star mother, JoAnn Mello, of Fall River, was helping with her husband, Alfred Andrews, and son, Matthew Andrews, 24. Her son, Army Spc. Scott Andrews, 21, was killed in Afghanistan in June 2010 when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

Mello said she and Carlene Barrett thought the toy donation would be something they could do in memory of their boys. She wore an Army sweatshirt and pin with a photograph of her late son.

“It’s a sad time for us, to have the holidays, but this eases the pain a little bit,” Mello said.

Sarah Keller-Likins, executive director of Boston-based Military Friends Foundation, said most of the toys were able to be purchased through the donation that taxpayers mark on their state income tax forms (question 32E) to support National Guard, Reserve and Gold Star families in need. The contribution is tax-deductible. More information about the organization can be found at www.militaryfriends.org

Keller-Likins said the families who initiated the idea for “Operation Military Smiles” are unbelievable.

“They’re paying it forward in their sons’ memories,” Keller-Likins said.

The event was attended by Mayor Richard A. Cohen, state Sen. Michael R. Knapik, R-Westfield, and Rep. Nicholas A. Boldyga, R-Southwick.

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.

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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