April 2021 Update
Good morning Springfield!
It has been a busy three weeks as I continue to meet with residents, businesses, and organizations that are excited for the prospect of new leadership on the Springfield City Council.
On Wednesday, March 31st, I participated in a Zoom call to discuss the proposed Highland Rail Trail, which would redevelop a decommissioned railroad right-of-way into a scenic trail. The trail would run along the East Forest Park / Forest Park line, starting at the MLK Charter School and ending at Springfield College. There is great enthusiasm for this project, and I have been meeting with local bike enthusiasts to gain their perspective. I am proud to support this project.
On Saturday, April 3rd, I joined Springfield Together, Inc. and the Springfield Elks for their Bunny Hop Drive-Thru event. These organizations are performing amazing work and put on a great event to ensure that Springfield families had all they need to celebrate their upcoming holy days. Thank you Attorney Neil Phillips for your enthusiasm for serving Springfield!
Juan with Boomer from the Springfield T-Birds
I also dropped in to Bumpy’s Natural and Organic Foods in East Forest Park to introduce myself to Derryl “Bumpy” Gibbs. Growing up on Ellsworth Avenue, I’ve seen many businesses occupy this Allen Street building, so it is exciting for me to see Bumpy & team doing so well!
I’d also like to give a shoutout to Gerry Martin, who I met at Bumpy’s. Gerry is an employee at the store and wants to use his enthusiasm for food security to give back to his community. Springfield will be in good hands with emerging leaders like Gerry.
Speaking of amazing work, THANK YOU to the more than 20 volunteers who joined out Zoom Committee Meeting on Thursday, April 15th. Your enthusiasm for this campaign and for honest, responsible government further my motivation to serve.
FInally, on Saturday, April 17th, I crisscrossed the city to meet more enthusiastic residents. My stops included:
Olive Tree Books-n-Voices in Old Hill to catch up with Ms. Zee
Monsoon Roastery in McKnight to introduce myself to Tim & Andrea Monson, and to enjoy a hot beverage on a cold day!
A pit stop to 4Run3 in East Longmeadow to reintroduce myself to Jill & Tim Murphy. Jill & Tim have a vision for a Hoop City Marathon that I believe in firmly. As your City Councilor, I will continue to advocate for events that bring business to the city and improve the quality of life of our residents.
A big thank you to St. Gregory’s Armenian Apostolic Church in Indian Orchard, and congratulations on your successful take out picnic fundraiser! The kebabs were amazing, and it was great to see my Scouting friend Steve Berian.
We are working to implement the great ideas that came from our Committee Meeting last week. In the coming weeks, we will begin knocking on doors to meet with residents, and we are planning a formal campaign kickoff. To support our outreach, sign up to volunteer!
The campaign is preparing to purchase signage, yard signs, and handouts in the coming weeks. If you’re able, please contribute what you can to elect an independent voice for Springfield. On behalf of the campaign, thank you for your support!