G. Michael Dobbs

With climate change, it’s time to rethink your yard - 3/28/2023
Question for new governor: is high speed rail a priority? - 3/13/2023
Banning books should never be part of our culture - 2/28/2023
Charland shows the impact of true public service - 2/13/2023
The growth of the cannabis industry needs to continue - 1/31/2023
I support MGM Springfield but isn’t it time to reopen fully? - 1/17/2023
As usual, I learned a lot over the past year - 1/3/2023
New mattress regulation creates an unexpected reaction - 12/19/2022
Isn’t it time for solutions rather than shouting? - 12/6/2022
A series of reflections now that we’re post-election - 11/28/2022
Neal’s record challenged by new progressive PAC - 11/7/2022
Study shows unfunded mandates remain a challenge for cities and towns - 10/25/2022
Scratch and Keno lottery sales decline worries officials - 10/11/2022
Proposed legislation is designed to protect personal freedom - 9/20/2022
Primary season brings about changes, surprises and intrigue - 9/12/2022
As Groucho once said, ‘Hello, I cannot stay, I must be going’ - 9/12/2022
In a self-induced pity party? Snap out of it - 9/5/2022
The primary is here and I hope you will vote - 8/30/2022
Image in advertisement raises concerns from reader - 8/23/2022
What has the Gaming Commission been doing lately? - 8/16/2022
With Hall of Fame, it’s just business, right? Nothing personal - 8/8/2022
An understatement: the Legislature puzzles me sometimes - 8/4/2022
Springfield, welcome to your new community newspaper - 8/3/2022
Two out of three candidates have an opinion about the courthouse - 7/25/2022
Reader disagrees and says same sex marriage is ‘immoral’ - 7/18/2022
The primary season truly starts and it’s busy - 7/11/2022
Erosion of freedoms looms with Supreme Court decision - 7/1/2022
Abandoned theaters provide economic development to cities - 6/27/2022
Town meeting season brings up questions of efficiency in governing - 6/20/2022
It takes a lot of gall for Sudders to show up here - 6/13/2022
Random act of hate adds to these sad and dangerous times - 6/6/2022
Reaching this life milestone is a little unreal - 5/27/2022
What would it take for a racist to change their mind? - 5/23/2022
There is a disconnect between beliefs and actions - 5/16/2022
Longmeadow Democratic Breakfast provides a political mosh pit - 5/9/2022
Trip to UMass was nostalgic and hopeful - 5/3/2022
Inside baseball: facts in controversial stories can be elusive - 4/25/2022
Biden signs new law to support the Post Office - 4/18/2022
I offer some unsolicited advice again to candidates - 4/12/2022
Welcome to your new community newspaper, The Reminder - 4/4/2022
Slap heard around the world just part of weird week - 4/4/2022
So what does government actually care about? - 3/28/2022
I need to do something to help Ukraine - 3/22/2022
As usual, I’ve got questions and seeking answers - 3/14/2022
Putin’s threat sets off memories from childhood - 3/8/2022
It’s the best time of the year: election season - 2/28/2022
The departure of two members of the media will be felt - 2/21/2022
It’s not that difficult to cut down plastic personally - 2/15/2022
Proposed legislation would open cannabis industry to more people - 2/7/2022
Springfield incident illustrates the need for public safety improvements - 2/1/2022
Report about sheriffs and contributions is click-bait - 1/26/2022
The movies teach us that 2022 could be a lot worse than it is - 1/17/2022
Yes, I’m going to get letters about this opinion - 1/11/2022
Survey says: people still believe in falsehoods - 12/31/2021
Let’s hope that 2022 isn’t the terrible year that 2021 was - 12/27/2021
Local woman has spent years seeking medical help to no avail - 12/21/2021
The return of cursive writing could help students - 12/15/2021
Baker’s move makes next election a free-for-all - 12/6/2021
Anniversary of casino bill important for state and region - 12/1/2021
Whatever your traditions, happy Thanksgiving - 11/22/2021
It’s time to start fixing our mistakes - 11/16/2021
Past election night, more history will be made - 11/8/2021
Civil conversation gives me a little hope - 11/3/2021
We hope you enjoy your new newspaper - 11/3/2021
Charlie Ryan was a legendary figure in city’s history - 10/20/2021
A new district map could lead to greater diversity - 10/19/2021
Smith & Wesson departure should make us think about business development - 10/12/2021
A sad level of hypocrisy exists with troopers refusing vaccine - 10/5/2021
Low turn-out for preliminary election is troublesome - 9/27/2021
Fact checking letters to the editor – opening a can of worms? - 9/21/2021
The COVID-19 vaccines are a blessing - 9/15/2021
We don’t need to legalize fireworks in Massachusetts - 9/8/2021
It’s time for a new courthouse in Springfield - 9/1/2021
Afghanistan is an issue with local implications - 8/24/2021
Loss of small town resonates in climate debate - 8/17/2021
I want this pandemic to end. Do you? - 8/10/2021
History’s lessons shouldn’t be ignored - 8/3/2021
I’m not sure what message is being sent in Chicopee - 7/26/2021
Yes, I want to go into space, but do they have a suit to fit me? - 7/19/2021
What’s wrong with a term limit for the speaker? - 7/12/2021
Sorting through everything rattling through my brain - 7/2/2021
The Fourth of July is about more than hotdogs and fireworks - 6/28/2021
Sports betting should help as many businesses as possible - 6/21/2021
Police shouldn’t obscure or bury the history of systemic racism - 6/14/2021
Enjoying a taste of normalcy in New England - 6/4/2021
Trust is difficult to rebuild following Croteau case - 5/28/2021
Ten years later, 2011 tornado is still an influence - 5/25/2021
More proof that this country’s ‘crazy factor’ is regularly increasing - 5/18/2021
Holyoke may be a city, but it’s really a village - 5/10/2021
Visitors recognize region’s potential - 5/4/2021
Enshrinement should stay in Springfield - 4/26/2021
All it takes is one bug to shut down inspection system - 4/20/2021
Change is a necessary component of human life - 4/12/2021
Forecasts of increased crime with casino prove inaccurate - 4/5/2021
Plan to weaken U.S. Post Office must be stopped - 3/29/2021
Do you know a guy? That’s what you need to get the shot - 3/24/2021
Lessons I’ve learned during the first year of the pandemic - 3/15/2021
Dr. Seuss political hysteria is predictable - 3/9/2021
To get the shot, you clearly need a plan - 3/1/2021
Decades old decision helped divide nation - 2/22/2021
Vaccine sites should have been organized ages ago - 2/15/2021
Soldiers' Home debate disgusts me - 2/11/2021
We need a more cohesive regional and national approach to the pandemic - 2/1/2021
What are you going to do to help our country move forward? - 1/25/2021
Claims of censorship made by some are misleading - 1/20/2021
Confederate flag in the Capitol reaffirms the evil it represents - 1/11/2021
Unsolicited advice is easy to give, harder to take - 1/6/2021
Here are some predictions on what we could expect in 2021 - 12/28/2020
Merry Christmas from this ink-stained editor - 12/21/2020
Pandemic has caused me to appreciate life’s little moments - 12/15/2020
People need to get past pandemic fatigue and do the right thing - 12/9/2020
There are serious business concerns with cannabis - 12/1/2020
In tumultuous 2020, there’s still plenty to be thankful for - 11/20/2020
We must find a common ground and unite by finding solutions - 11/16/2020
Our continued expansion illustrates the value of community journalism - 11/11/2020
In stressful election year, solace found in the words of journalists past - 11/4/2020
2020 has been a year of important lessons - 10/27/2020
Local candidates show how to behave like adults in a debate - 10/22/2020
Why I’m exhausted by this year’s election season - 10/13/2020
Taking stock of one head-spinner of a week - 10/7/2020
Pandemic has left us searching for a little bit of ‘normal’ in 2020 - 9/29/2020
Those who defaced BLM street art are either racists or jerks - 9/24/2020
News articles shouldn’t use unnamed sources - 9/15/2020
Candidates smear each other and it’s shameful - 9/10/2020
Hard fought elections come to their conclusions - 9/2/2020
Attack on Post Office is anti-American - 8/25/2020
Balancing pandemic and opening schools is a tough decision - 8/11/2020
Balancing pandemic and opening schools is a tough decision - 8/10/2020
Lack of understanding of Trump is hitting me hard - 8/4/2020
In the absence of theaters, drive-ins offer a nostalgic option - 7/27/2020
The great power of imagery always needs to be examined - 7/22/2020
Not all newspapers lean the same way in politics - 7/14/2020
Time to look past monuments of the past to create better future - 7/8/2020
I’m mad as hell and I can’t take it anymore - 6/29/2020
Steps to combat racism in American society should be welcomed, not scoffed at - 6/24/2020
Vieau did the right thing by removing Wilk - 6/11/2020
We must save small businesses - 6/3/2020
I love our neighboring states, but I’m staying home - 5/27/2020
If May 18 was Christmas, the presents were sensible - 5/20/2020
Coronavirus is as significant to history as the Great Depression - 5/20/2020
Massachusetts’ recovery will take longer than we imagine - 5/12/2020
The Post Office should not be a casualty of the pandemic - 5/6/2020
Adjusting to working from home and problems that come with it - 4/29/2020
Can billionaires understand small business struggles? - 4/22/2020
What’s the difference between purchasing recreational cannabis and alcohol? - 4/15/2020
Honoring veterans means more than just a ‘thank you’ - 4/7/2020
In stressful times, laughter can be the best medicine - 4/2/2020
Working from home provides different kinds of distractions - 3/23/2020
Responsibility in the face of a pandemic - 3/16/2020
Sanders gives standard stump speech for supporters - 3/4/2020
Don’t let sticker shock prevent progress - 2/19/2020
Grim realities of a pre-determined impeachment - 2/11/2020
Another casino: positive addition or hobbling earning potential? - 2/4/2020
Media jumps to conclusions, ride–sharing fee-hike bad for Western Mass. - 1/29/2020
Impeachment: staging a bloodless coup or addressing wrong doings of the president? - 1/21/2020
Transportation, infrastructure improvements need to benefit Western Mass. too - 1/14/2020
Will banning plastic straws negatively impact your life? Probably not - 1/7/2020
We don’t sell out for sandwiches - 12/30/2019
Gift giving is an art form. Some excel at it, others – not so much - 12/23/2019
‘Less-than-adequate’ snow cleanup spurs complaints and plans - 12/17/2019
Is there a better way for cities to deal with snow? - 12/11/2019
Tips to get through the holidays from a ‘professional cynic’ - 12/3/2019
Why is the Commonwealth considering banning menthol cigarettes? - 11/22/2019
Post-election town-by-town recap - 11/20/2019
Twenty years down, maybe five more to go - 11/12/2019
Now that elections are over, did you cast a vote? - 11/5/2019
Bill raises questions around profanity and context - 10/30/2019
Political debates are essential institution in our democracy - 10/22/2019
Is candy corn the new fruitcake? - 10/15/2019
Casino Advisory Committee should focus on helping city - 10/9/2019
Who benefits from vaping ban? - 10/2/2019
When I’m wrong, I’m wrong: Wahlburgers broke ground - 9/25/2019
With low public interest, do voters even know it’s election season? - 9/18/2019
The importance of affordable mass transit across the state - 9/10/2019
North-south rail, a first step in the right direction - 9/3/2019
Welcome to the new chapter in The Pennysaver - 8/27/2019
MGM Springfield has met many expectations during its first year - 8/27/2019
The death of a warrior, Michaelann Bewsee made Springfield a better community - 8/21/2019
Will Western Mass. benefit from high-speed rail? Not likely - 8/14/2019
Education funding needs change, mayoral races are heating up - 8/7/2019
East–West rail makes sense – but at what cost? - 8/7/2019
Cities and towns should consider municipal broadband - 7/24/2019
Growth in newspapers? Yes, it can happen. We’ve proved it. - 7/17/2019
MAD was more than satire; it strengthened the freedom of speech - 7/9/2019
Few markets our size have the combination of tourism attractions we do - 7/1/2019
Voicing an opinion is fine, but casting a vote is more important - 6/24/2019
Let’s change the perception of what is an ‘art’ town - 6/18/2019
Events still live as long as there are witnesses, survivors and participants - 6/11/2019
Life is indeed too short, live it to the fullest our situation allows - 6/4/2019
I’d like to see MGM Springfield become even more successful - 5/24/2019
Abortion issue another example of politicians skewed priorities - 5/20/2019
For Union Station to reach potential, customer amenities must be priority - 5/14/2019
Got a lot on my mind about my industry this week - 5/7/2019
We may not have a coastline but there are things we share with the Cape - 5/1/2019
City should confiscate illegal dirt bikes driven on streets - 4/24/2019
A healthy local press may also mean a healthy local political process - 4/15/2019
Neal rises to the top of the national political discussion - 4/8/2019
Paying tribute to Caesar is annual exercise in pain and confusion - 4/2/2019
Publishing news that is hyper-local — that is still our philosophy - 3/27/2019
To get east-west rail service, we need to make it Boston’s ‘idea’ - 3/20/2019
I made a not-so-bold prediction: forcing Neal isn’t going to work - 3/13/2019
Being a mayor isn’t easy, neither is running for the office - 3/5/2019
Retirement of police commissioner opens door to discussion - 2/27/2019
Is our future going to be similar to ones seen in science fiction films? - 2/20/2019
Welcome to the first Reminder ‘Outlook’ edition - 2/15/2019
Blackface is simply unacceptable at any time, for any reason - 2/13/2019
I’ve developed protective coloring to get through Super Bowl - 2/6/2019
Cannabis event brings up many questions - 1/30/2019
Longmeadow voters speak their mind on elected officials - 1/22/2019
Warren’s ‘everyman’ Instagram post registers as total fail - 1/16/2019
Please explain: Why do some people like to root for failure? - 1/9/2019
It’s a mystery to me how history will view anything - 1/2/2019
I learned a lot in 2018, how about you? - 12/26/2018
Ignoring Facebook may ensure a Merry Christmas - 12/18/2018
Is proposed raise for the city council justified or too much? - 12/12/2018
Here’s an idea: let’s discuss issues we can actually affect - 12/5/2018
Unexpected and welcome letters from the mayor - 11/28/2018
I’ve got a long list of reasons to be thankful this year - 11/20/2018
Trump’s snub of WWI observation would be political suicide for anyone else - 11/14/2018
No offense Santa but could you stay away just a little while longer? - 11/7/2018
It’s time to put the politics aside and seek real solutions to violence - 10/31/2018
Is our political speech not much better than that of 150 years ago? - 10/24/2018
Let’s prepare for marijuana tourism as its coming - 10/17/2018
Public opinion and statistics on Springfield schools differ - 10/10/2018
Baker’s decision disappoints - 10/4/2018
We’ll be delivering you local news every week - 10/3/2018
I’m happy to say we’re bucking the industry trend - 9/26/2018
Computers are great, but typewriters were expressive and fun - 9/20/2018
The decision by the Times was wrong - 9/13/2018
What businesses are learning from MGM - 9/5/2018
Last weekend’s events offered a tale of two downtowns - 8/30/2018
City and tourism officials should take advantage of MGM’s opening - 8/23/2018
Chain stores can be great, but local retailers truly help build communities - 8/16/2018
Can we really say we know how another person feels? - 8/9/2018
The road to Aug. 24 opening has been a long and interesting one - 8/3/2018
This is what democracy is all about - 7/26/2018
Air and Space Show brings up memories of Westover in its prime many years ago - 7/19/2018
There are rules about being ‘off the record’ - 7/12/2018
‘Thoughts and prayers’ won’t solve continuing violence - 7/5/2018
Daniel’s appearance prompts thoughts about celebrity - 6/27/2018
We need to take advantage of opportunities - 6/21/2018
MGM needs the 4 a.m. closing time, but do other establishments need it as well? - 6/14/2018
West Side has left money on the table – can it afford it? - 6/7/2018
The president doesn’t seem to understand purpose of Memorial Day - 5/31/2018
Pot sales give municipalities needed revenue - 5/24/2018
Politics is fun but confusing at times - 5/18/2018
Note to Gov. Baker and Legislature: Fund the PVTA properly - 5/9/2018
Ray Hershel created a legacy of professionalism in region - 5/3/2018
UMass purchase of Mount Ida College betrays its mission - 4/26/2018
MGM story takes an interesting turn – maybe - 4/19/2018
Hey kids, want to monitor the media for Homeland Security? - 4/12/2018
Newspaper hero provides comfort this week - 4/5/2018
Undocumented immigration demands attention - 3/29/2018
Texting argument is a distraction - 3/22/2018
Patrick needs to start now if he’s running - 3/15/2018
We all have health care stories - 3/8/2018
I describe ‘fake news’ as best as I can - 3/1/2018
Tell me what you think should be done - 2/22/2018
Cities are bracing for legal pot - 2/15/2018
Ruling could affect tips-based jobs - 2/8/2018
Pay rate for dealers surprises some - 2/1/2018
Zippy the Pinhead visits Western Massachusetts again - 1/25/2018
Comments underscore what work we have to do - 1/18/2018
Wolff book brings up issues of how elected officials relate to reporters - 1/11/2018
It’s the New Year and time to get back to business - 1/3/2018
What the heck happened to 2017? - 12/28/2017
Individual acts of kindness help make this Christmas brighter for many - 12/21/2017
Can we actually cope with the challenges that face us in the 21st Century? - 12/15/2017
Should drug testing for first responders be considered? - 12/8/2017
Why would you oppose net neutrality? - 11/30/2017
Beware the sexy lingerie store? - 11/21/2017
Proud of 18 years at The Reminder - 11/16/2017
Enough prayers; it’s time for action - 11/10/2017
Study gives a peek at casino impacts - 11/2/2017
In digital age, real travel is valued - 10/26/2017
We’re making some changes - 10/20/2017
So should a museum be responsible for political correctness? - 10/12/2017
Las Vegas shootings bring up the same unanswered questions again - 10/5/2017
Freedom of speech is a demanding concept - 9/27/2017
What’s the second economic development act after 2018 for Springfield? - 9/21/2017
Imagine this: you could witness the start of a war as a kid and then serve in it - 9/14/2017
The city is benefitting from political involvement - 9/7/2017
Move the state capitol to Springfield? Sounds good to me - 8/31/2017
What a week for the local newsman - 8/24/2017
News brings back nuclear memories - 8/17/2017
Nothing to do this weekend in Western Massachusetts? Not so! - 8/10/2017
Springfield’s June Foray was truly a local daughter who made good - 8/3/2017
Do you want MGM’s closing time to be at 4 a.m.? - 7/27/2017
We need answers and a rail study - 7/20/2017
Sisitsky was a courageous man - 7/13/2017
July Fourth is a time for reflection - 7/6/2017
Union Station is a game-changer - 6/29/2017
Conversation must trump rhetoric - 6/22/2017
Following the evolution of a story can be fun - 6/15/2017
Freedom of speech is a demanding and harsh concept - 6/8/2017
The ULI report offers guidance many years later - 6/1/2017
Here’s what every graduate needs: unwanted advice - 5/25/2017
Town meetings imparted lessons - 5/18/2017
Talk inspires radio memories - 5/11/2017
We need more market-rate housing in Springfield - 5/4/2017
Clearly we love sensationalism - 4/27/2017
Ah spring, the time for the neighbors to misbehave - 4/20/2017
You don’t have to buy land to save East Longmeadow depot - 4/13/2017
Honeybees should be protected, not banned - 4/6/2017
Prediction: you won’t see pot shops in suburban communities - 3/30/2017
Selfies have become a political gesture in the digital age - 3/23/2017
Changes to the Affordable Care Act shows how one action can affect many - 3/16/2017
Presidential tweets are a gift to an under-funded and sometimes lazy press - 3/9/2017
I’m willing to bet the third Connecticut casino won’t hurt MGM Springfield - 3/2/2017
So how was your street during the last two storms? - 2/23/2017
What would be your name for our area? - 2/16/2017
I don my annual protective coloring - 2/10/2017
Should legislators get raises? - 2/3/2017
Can you imgaine a time zone just for Massachusetts? - 1/26/2017
Closing of a circus marks the end of an era in entertainment - 1/23/2017
How will the Trump Administration deal with legalized marijuana issue? - 1/13/2017
Sarno was right in standing firm on Springfield's residency requirements - 1/6/2017
Let’s all focus on accomplishing something positive in 2017 - 12/29/2016
Human trafficking story shows crime, misery not exclusive to cities - 12/21/2016
Identifying fact and truth is part of making sense of the fake news era - 12/16/2016
Finding beauty in the most mundane of civic responsibilities – jury duty - 12/9/2016
Flag burners have rights but do they know what the flag means? - 12/2/2016
Legislature faces interesting session with marijuana questions - 11/23/2016
Much will be learned as Trump Administration takes shape - 11/18/2016
Count me among those who are still skeptical about MassPike toll changes - 11/11/2016
Don’t be complacent after the election; get and stay involved - 11/3/2016
Criticism of journalists just another shining example of American hypocrisy - 10/28/2016
Did ancient grudges keep Hampden from doing the right thing? - 10/27/2016
These ballot questions also merit your attention on Nov. 8 - 10/20/2016
Public schools are essential and deserve more praise than they receive - 10/14/2016
Here’s a simple guide to talking sports for those who don’t actually follow sports - 10/7/2016
Do these presidential debates matter? - 9/29/2016
MassPike meeting just theater - 9/22/2016
It’s true: Local elections matter - 9/15/2016
Outrage over plastic bag ban was strong, fascinating - 9/9/2016
Pondering this year’s races - 9/2/2016
Pundits are cold on MGM - 8/25/2016
Living without broadband still a reality for many towns - 8/19/2016
Western Massachusetts cities shining in the spotlight - 8/12/2016
Handing out onions and orchids - 8/5/2016
Rail investment is necessary - 7/28/2016
The battle against hate must start inside our own communities - 7/22/2016
Pioneer Valley offers plenty to see for visitors, residents alike - 7/15/2016
Future Hampden County sheriff should consider Griffin’s message on addiction - 7/8/2016
Unsolicited advice to youngsters from a grey beard - 6/30/2016
Age doesn’t bring insight, just more questions to ponder - 6/24/2016
Orlando club shooting raises questions, many of which don’t have easy answers - 6/17/2016
Haberman Hardware was last remnant of Holyoke’s glory days - 6/10/2016
Five years later, 2011 tornado’s impact still lingers in the Valley - 6/2/2016
We’re living in a ‘Network’ world - 5/27/2016
Local radio suffers major blow - 5/20/2016
Is your community a happy one? - 5/12/2016
Is removing the toll booths really progress or just another government intrusion? - 5/5/2016
Finding a team might be the easy part for hockey in Springfield - 4/28/2016
Could Springfield’s involvement with Dunbar set expensive precedent? - 4/21/2016
Keeping public records public - 4/14/2016
Who would run for East Longmeadow’s town council? - 4/8/2016
Albano’s campaign focuses on attacks rather than the issues - 3/31/2016
Next week, The Reminder-Friday edition will debut - 3/24/2016
Chief fiasco illustrates need for change - 3/17/2016
Political discourse heading in scary direction - 3/11/2016
Be heard with The Reminder’s Speak Out - 3/3/2016
What is vital to us today can change in a heartbeat - 2/26/2016
DCAMM’s process needs revamp - 2/18/2016
Separating real talk from political hyperbole - 2/11/2016
Student loan debt must be addressed - 2/4/2016
Time to consider regional lockup? - 1/28/2016
With viaduct project in full swing, finding alternate routes a challenge - 1/21/2016
Howard Street facility could work in Maple High Six Corners - 1/15/2016
People should realize the right thing is often the easiest thing - 1/7/2016
An open letter to the year 2015 - 12/29/2015
Merry Christmas to you and yours - 12/22/2015
‘Star Wars,’ a study in pop culture - 12/18/2015
Finding ‘truth’ in today’s local issues - 12/10/2015
Some things I’ll never understand - 12/3/2015
Turning backs on refugees is turning backs on our values - 11/25/2015
Rhetoric in the wake of Paris attack comes fast and furious - 11/19/2015
Is an early closing time the answer? - 11/12/2015
A little reminder about submissions - 11/5/2015
Pick up the phone and talk to us MGM - 10/29/2015
Things to ask yourself before voting - 10/22/2015
Columbus Day: a holiday of myths - 10/16/2015
Latest mass murder can’t be allowed to be ‘routine’ - 10/8/2015
MGM’s problem isn't the plan; it's the communication - 10/1/2015

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