I live in a mid-century style house with 16-foot ceilings at the tallest point, so when my husband and I moved in five years ago, we started filling the spaces with large houseplants. Not only do they bring the outdoors in, they’re often more affordable — and fulfilling — than, say, a side table or a floor lamp.
Whether you’re looking for your first plant or your tenth, if you’re in the market for something extra-large, it’s smart to take a trip to your local nursery, says Madeline Hooper, co-host of the public television show GardenFit. “It’s ideal to see a plant [in person] because you get a visceral reaction to it,” the New York gardener says. “Get what really excites you because you’re going to be living with it every day.”
Hooper also suggests not buying the largest plant you find; instead, start with a medium-sized version that will grow. This will ease the burden of maneuvering it around your home as you figure out optimal lighting conditions.
Ready to go shopping for a statement plant? Here are some ideas.
Grows to: 10 feet
Difficulty: Intermediate to expert
Great for: High-light rooms; people who like a challenge
The fiddle-leaf fig has become an interior-design favorite for its sculptural foliage and dramatic stature. But these plants aren’t the easiest to care for, requiring bright, indirect light and consistent watering, says Hanna Kolaks, horticulturist at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
“If red specks on the leaf appear, it’s due to the cells receiving too much water, too fast, and bursting, called edema,” she says. “Avoid letting the soil dry completely in between waterings, and be sure to adequately soak the soil when watering.”
Leaves dropping and foliage discoloration are telltale signs
of stress, usually attributed to lighting or watering issues — something I personally encountered when we lost a trio of gorgeous (not to mention, expensive) fiddle-leaf figs due to lack of light in our great room. “No plant actually loves low light. Some only tolerate it more than others,” explains Kate Osmond, assistant general manager of Gardens of Babylon in Nashville.
“Since this plant has large leaves, it can gather dust rather quickly so be sure to wipe down the leaves on occasion with a damp cloth,” adds Kolaks, noting that drafts and dry air can also damage a fiddle-leaf.
Bird of paradise
Grows to: 20 feet
Difficulty: Beginner
Great for: A room with direct sun exposure
If you’re looking to incorporate tropical vibes, this is a great pick. Bird of paradise plants, with their large, palm-like leaves, can rocket in height, but it’s okay to prune them back if necessary. The oldest leaves on any plant will wither and turn brown as a plant matures, Osmond says, so remove fading foliage with
clean, sharp pruners.
“Best practice would call for sterilizing your snips before making cuts on a new plant,” she recommends. “I like to wipe them down with whatever rubbing alcohol you already have in your medicine cabinet.”
The bird of paradise needs direct sun; you can even move it outdoors in the summertime before bringing it back in during the dormant season. It also prefers fertile, organic soil (loamy, acidic) with good drainage.
Bird of paradise has similar watering needs as the ficus Audrey. Let the top few inches of the container dry out, then soak thoroughly. You might notice the leaves start to curl and droop when it gets too thirsty, Osmond says, but they should perk back up after a drink. Bird of paradise leaves can also split easily, particularly in high-trafficked areas or near a strong air vent, but don’t let that stress you out either — split leaves are still healthy.
Monstera deliciosa
Grows to: 15 feet
Difficulty: Beginner
Applications are now available for the Agawam Garden Club 2024 scholarship. To qualify for the scholarship, students must be a graduating senior of Agawam High School or a college student who graduated from Agawam High School planning to attend an institution of higher learning in the fall. Applicants must be majoring in or planning on majoring in one of the following: botany, environmental engineering, environmental science, earths systems, forest management, natural resources, plant soil and insect science, sustainable agriculture, sustainable horticulture or food and framing, turf grass science and management, landscape design and management technology, clean energy, technology studies, waste water or other environmental related studies. The recipient will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship at the clubs annual June meeting. Completed applications along with transcripts and references must be submitted to Denise Carmody, 40 Primrose Lane Agawam, MA 01001 by April 1. Applications are available through Agawam High school or can be found online at agawam gardenclub.com
The Springfield Garden Club is accepting applications for its annual $2,000 scholarship, to be awarded to a graduating high school senior, undergraduate or graduate college student majoring in a full-time plant science or environmental studies program, such as horticulture, floriculture, landscape design, conservation, forestry, botany, agronomy, plant pathology, environmental control, land management or other allied fields.
The candidate must be a resident of Hampden County, demonstrate financial need and have adequate academic standing. High school seniors, undergraduate, and graduate college students are eligible for consideration. For additional information and to request a copy of the application contact Jane Glushik at SGCscholarship@ gmail.com.
Scholarship applications must meet the submission deadline of April 1, to be eligible for consideration.
The Springfield Garden Club has awarded over $80,000 to more than 50 students during the past 30 plus years. Funds for the scholarship are raised at the
SEE NOTES, PAGE F10
available, choosing one can feel almost impossible.
often better left alone.
Once you’ve settled on a room, your decisions aren’t over. Where exactly in that room should you hang the paper?
A typical installation involves covering all four walls. But that’s not the only option.
If Nickey and Kehoe are working with a lively pattern in a bedroom, for instance, wallpapering a single wall behind the bed may be enough. Sometimes a visual surprise that doesn’t overwhelm the room is all you need.
Using too much loud wallpaper throughout your home? Nickey has a term for that. “Abuse of wallpaper,” he said, “is a design mistake.”
A better option, he added, is to “punctuate a house with these moments of something really dynamic and let other things fade to the background.”
In his own bathroom, Nickey limited himself to papering the top part of the wall, above the tiled wainscoting.
Another option: wallpapering the ceiling instead of the walls.
Measure and plan the installation
try to make sure the center of that pattern is right where you want it.
“It’s nice if it can line up with the entrance so you’re looking at the feature of the wallpaper in a doorway,” Nickey said.
Similarly, try to avoid placing the roll in such a way that you end up having to use thin scraps of wallpaper in the corners of the room.
Once you know where you’re putting the wallpaper, calculate the number of rolls you’ll need to cover the width of each wall. And make sure to include extra length — known as “overage” — for each strip so the pattern can be lined up and trimmed as needed during installation.
Then add an additional roll to your order.
“We always order one extra roll, because you never know when something is going to be damaged,” Nickey said. Because printing colors can vary from lot to lot, he noted, you may find it difficult to locate a perfect match later.
Prepare the wall
Wallpaper isn’t a fix for damaged or uneven walls.
By T im Mc K eoughWallpaper is a powerful design tool that can transform a room. You start with a white box and end up with what feels like an entirely different space,
But which one: Intricate or bold? Floral or geometric?
With so many colors and patterns available, choosing one can feel almost impossible. And once you do, how
do you avoid botching up the installation?
Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe, of the Los Angeles-based design firm Nickey Kehoe, often wrap rooms in color and
pattern, so we asked them for advice. And Nickey, who happened to be wallpapering his own bathroom, invited us along to see how it’s done.
Where should the wallpaper go?
The first step is figuring out where you’re going to hang the wallpaper. Keep in mind: Not all rooms are good candidates for wallpapering.
Smaller, darker spaces like bedrooms, dens, offices and bathrooms — where “you want to feel like you’re enveloped,” Kehoe said — are the best places to hang wallpaper. Larger rooms with great light and beautiful views are
Measure the walls or ceiling you plan to cover and consider how the width of the roll you’ve chosen will work in the space.
Small-scale patterns provide flexibility, but if you have a large-scale pattern,
If your wall has lumps and bumps, holes or a thick texture, those problems will be visible on the surface of the paper if you don’t correct them before installation.
Popped nailheads should be hammered flat, holes
Water heaters provide an important service to your home, and when they break, they tend to cause big problems, such as basement flooding (not to mention the inconvenience of being without hot water). Regular maintenance is essential to catch problems early and prevent a potentially disastrous flood, not to mention adding years to your heater’s service life.
Maintaining and ensuring the proper functioning of a water heater is crucial for several reasons. It’s not just about comfort but also about safety and energy efficiency. Adjusting the thermostat, testing it periodically and replacing the unit when necessary all contribute to a safe and efficient home. Draining and flushing once per year protects your tank and improves flow and efficiency.
Signs indicating the need for attention to your water heater include slow or no water heating, rust-colored water, strange noises, inconsistent temperature and age (usually more than 10 years). Regular testing, particularly of the thermostat, can also preemptively signal issues.
Questions for a professional could cover their experience,
CONTINUES FROM PAGE F4
should be filled, and textural treatments should be covered with a smooth skim coat of plaster, Kehoe said.
If your wall has many minor imperfections, she added, you may want to use lining paper — blank wallpaper that is installed before the patterned paper — to help smooth things out.
With all the decisions made, it’s time to paste the wallpaper up with adhesive. Nickey and Kehoe usually hire a professional installer, but you can hang the wallpaper yourself if
certifications, warranties on their work, the estimated time for the project and specifics about the replacement or repair process. Ensure they’re familiar with your type of water heater; heaters come from various manufacturers in different tank and tankless configurations, and not every water heater pro is familiar with every form.
A licensed plumber or a specialized water heater technician is the ideal professional to handle water heater-related tasks. Licensing requirements vary by location, but certifications and insurance are crucial. Costs for water heater repair, replacement or installation can vary significantly based on the issue, the type and size of the unit, labor costs and any additional materials needed. Investing in a high-quality unit can save on long-term energy costs. A professional hired for water heater issues may diagnose the problem, repair or replace components, or install an entirely new unit. They’ll ensure proper connections, safety measures and functionality.
Draining and flushing the water heater once a year plays a vital role in keeping it in good shape, by removing sediment buildup. It’s possible to DIY this task, though it’s going
to take you the better part of a day. A pro can do it more quickly and efficiently. Testing the thermostat and checking for signs of trouble should be done periodically, at least once a year. It’s possible to DIY this task, though it’s going to take you the better part of a day. A pro can do the work quickly and efficiently at a cost between $75 and $200.
Maintaining and ensuring the proper functioning of a water heater is crucial for comfort but also for safety and energy efficiency.
(CHAD ROBERTSON / DREAMSTIME / TNS)
you take the time to keep the paper straight and the seams aligned while trimming it to fit around corners, doors and windows.
Once the wallpaper is hung, don’t be afraid to hang decorative accessories like pictures and drapery. It’s natural to feel nervous about hammering nails or drilling holes into the paper you’ve so carefully installed, but if you want a finished room, there’s no other option.
Take a deep breath, think twice about where you want art and accessories, and proceed.
“Know thyself,” Kehoe said.
“And wallpaper accordingly,” Nickey added.
ACCORDING TO science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke, “Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.” Look at magic lanterns, which even have “magic” in their name. They were used in Europe by the 1650s. Traveling showmen used them to apparently conjure ghosts and demons out of thin air to the shock and amusement of their audiences. Of course, these apparitions were projected by candlelight through the lantern’s lens. Audiences loved these devices, and over time, they received improvements and became more accessible. Oil and gas lamps replaced the candle, and glass slides projected colorful images instead of shadows. By the mid1800s, the magic lantern had a new name: the stereopticon, a technical-sounding term referencing the scientific concepts behind its operation.
Some manufacturers called them sciopticons, arguably putting even more emphasis on the scientific aspects. One sciopticon model, patented by the Pettibone Manufacturing Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1888, was known as the “Peacock,” thanks to the revolving discs holding the painted glass slides, which resembled a peacock’s fanned-out tail. This Peacock sciopticon sold at Donley Auctions for $1,845. It has an electric light, showing further advances in technology, and includes two discs. By the time this style of sciopticon appeared, popular subjects for slides included famous stories, historical figures, morality tales, exotic scenery and scientific illustrations.
A far cry from the shadowy ghosts and ghouls of the 17th century, the magic lantern had developed into an educational tool.
Q. Can you tell me about what I call a “foot stool”?
It belonged to my grandparents born 1883 and
The Pettibone Peacock Sciopticon is a simple device when you compare it to today’s movie projectors, but it shows how much technology had advanced since the days of the earliest magic lanterns. (COWLES SYNDICATE INC.)
died 1969, married in 1910. After their death, it went to my aunt (all lived in Grand Rapids, Michigan) and after her death, I inherited it in 2008. I have no idea when it was purchased and have recovered it. There are no markings on it and no damage. The solid wood cylinder is 4 inches wide, 14 inches in circumference and 13 inches long. It stands 9 inches tall with four 6-inch feet at an angle, and with two 3-inch-long knobs at each end to make it about 20 inches long total. Everyone who sees it remarks how interesting it is!
A. Your foot stool sounds like a gout stool. Gout is a form of arthritis that can cause joint pain, especially in the ankles and toes. In the 18th and 19th centuries, there were several styles of gout stools, designed to deep weight off the feet and relieve the pain. Some were made like miniature rockers. Yours sounds like a “rolling pin” type, so-called because of its shape. Some of them
had features like a rotating cylinder to massage the foot or ankle, or adjustable legs to get the stool to the right height for different users. Some are still made today. Antique gout stools by unknown makers usually sell for under $100.
Q. I inherited a gouache, and I’ve just found out it’s an original photochrom by Detroit Photographic Co., copyright 1899. The subject is Gustav Wertheimer’s The Kiss of the Wave, and my antique dealer says its technique is exemplary. I’d like to know more about it.
A. The Detroit Photographic Co. was founded in the 1890s in Detroit as a photographic publisher. The company soon obtained rights to the Photochrom process (sometimes spelled “Photochrome”) for creating colorized images from a blackand-white photographic negative. This process, a variant of chromolithography, was invented in the 1880s in Switzerland. The
photographic negative was transferred onto printing plates. A print could be made with as many as 25 plates: one for each color. The photographer would have had to record the subject’s colors onsite, often with a watercolor sketch. The completed photochrom would look like a color photograph, but if you inspect it with a magnifying glass, you will see the small dots of color created by the printing process. Popular subjects included foreign scenery, travel destinations, and, like yours, copies of famous works of art. Gustav Wertheimer (1847-1902) was an Austrian painter known for his dramatic historical and mythological scenes. Photochroms sell at antique shops and auctions, and their value usually depends on their size. Postcard-size pieces can sell for about $50; larger sizes go for between $150 to $300.
TIP: Never laminate a paper collectible, whether it’s a document, photo, letter, press pass, cut autograph, or baseball card. Lamination is permanent and permanently decreases value.
Terry Kovel and Kim Kovel answer readers’ questions sent to the column. Send a letter with one question describing the size, material (glass, pottery) and what you know about the item. Include only two pictures, the object and a closeup of any marks or damage. Be sure your name and return address are included. By sending a question, you give full permission for use in any Kovel product. Names, addresses or email addresses will not be published. We do not guarantee the return of photographs, but if a stamped envelope is included, we will try. Questions that are answered will appear in Kovels Publications. Write to Kovels, The Republican, King Features Syndicate, 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 or email us at collectorsgallery@kovels. com.
Great for: A south-facing window with bright, indirect light
One of the easier houseplants to care for, the monstera deliciosa (also called split-leaf philodendron) can grow massive leaves when conditions are optimal. A monstera can reach 15 feet tall with the right support, care and patience, notes Alfred Palomares, vice president of merchandising at 1-800-Flowers.com. It does need a support system — like moss poles, stakes or a trellisto help it climb and grow.
This plant is also semidrought tolerant, but you’ll want to water yours often enough to keep the soil from totally drying out. An inexpensive moisture meter can help you determine when your monstera (or any houseplant) needs a drink. Palomares, a self-proclaimed “plant dad,” suggests planting a monstera in well-draining, peat-based potting mix or coconut coir soil with a more neutral pH balance.
If your monstera gets too large, you can prune it, starting with older leaves that may be yellowing or damaged.
Corn plant
Grows to: 6 feet
Difficulty: Beginner
Great for: Dimmer spots, up to spaces with bright, indirect light
If your room is on the dimmer side, Osmond recommends looking into dracaenas — often mistaken for palms, these plants are characterized by their tall, lanky silhouettes and grasslike leaves. One popular type is the corn plant, which doesn’t require much sun. “You’ve probably seen these staples around airports and shopping malls for this very reason,” she says, though “some are more tolerant of lower light than others.”
Corn plants prefer well-draining soil that includes a mix of clay, sand and silt, according to Palomares, which helps water run through more efficiently. These plants are quite forgiving and can withstand short periods of drought.
LOS ANGELES — The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate rose for the fourth consecutive week, another setback for prospective homebuyers just as the spring homebuying season gets going.
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose to 6.94% from 6.90% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 6.65%. The average rate is now just below its highest level since mid-December, when it was 6.95%.
When mortgage rates rise, they can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting how much they can afford in a market already out of reach for many Americans. They also discourage homeowners who locked in rock-bottom rates two or three years ago from selling.
Rates have been creeping higher in recent weeks as reports showing stronger-than-expected inflation at the consumer and wholesale levels and the economy stoked worries among bond investors that the Federal Reserve will wait until later this year before it begins cutting interest rates. A closely followed inflation report on Thursday showed prices across the country rose pretty much as expected last month.
Investors’ expectations for future inflation, global demand for U.S. Treasurys and what the Fed does with interest rates can influence rates on home loans.
Despite the recent increase, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage is still down from the 23-year high of 7.79% it reached in late October.
Meanwhile, home loan applications have declined for three consecutive weeks, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.
Allyson Sacco to Donald J. Macdonald, trustee, and Colemac Nominee Trust, trustee of, 77 Reed St., $245,000.
Brian David Kibbe and Linda Susan Kibbe to Luis Enrique Aponte Ortega and Amanda Crane, 250 South West St., $332,900.
David Kutz and Barbara Kutz to Margaret M. Cahillane and Karen A. Sullivan, 174 Edgewater Road, $560,000.
Edward P. Knowlton and Kristine Knowlton to Lauren Warga, 152 Regency Park Drive, $127,500.
Rebecca Moore, trustee, Michelle Amanda Trust, trustee of, Benjamin Moore and Michelle Amdanda Trust, trustee of, to Appleton Grove LLC, 11 Randall St., $170,000.
Sixto F. Portillo-Colon to Richard F. Dittrich, Richard F. Dittrich Jr., and Lois E. Dittrich, 1A Mansion Woods, $260,000.
Valerie Bonatakis, Elizabeth Focosi and Kathleen M. Focosi to Malgorzata Murray and Marcin
Piotr Bokij, 127 Beekman Drive, Unit 127, $240,000.
Railroad Street Partners LLC, to Aews Partnership LLC, 166 College St., $445,000.
Belchertown Road Partners LLC, to Aews Partnership LLC, 16 South Whitney St., $380,000.
Good OL Daves LLC, to Sunset Partnership LLC, 241 Sunset Ave., $447,000.
Bercume Construction LLC, to Helen Wang, 129 Linden Ridge Road, $1,030,020.
Ellen G. Gordon and Ellen G. Tinen to Laura Hanke, 10 Palley Village Place, $419,000.
Richard Prager, Richard Gordon Prager, Beverly Prager, Beverly
Ann Tremper-Prager, Sarah Mollie Prager and Elizabeth Prager to Sarah Mollie Prager and Aspen Micah Alterkun, 25 Hedgerow Lane, $100.
Lincoln Avenue Partners LLC, to 289 East Pleasant Street LLC, 15 Sunset Court, $499,000.
Andrzej Halastra and Edyta Halastra to Izabela Olivia Corbin and Matthew Tyler Corbin, Granby Road, $100.
Joan A. Malek to Carol Schmittlein, 111 Daniel Shays Highway, $345,000.
Mark T. Jaszek and Natalie C. Jaszek to Jaroslaw Laskarzewski and Jenny Laskarzewski, 37 Old Sawmill Road, $542,000.
Suzanne Meehan to Scott W. Lorange, 75 Enoch Sanford Road, $100.
Bradley C. Harris to Fenida Kandrotas, 55 N. Main St., and 55 North Main St., $235,000.
Brian P. Sears, trustee, and Josephine R. Sears Revocable Indenture of Trust of, trustee of, to Erik Ramsland, 1538 Dunhamtown Brimfield Road, $250,000.
McManaman Revocable Trust, trustee of, Thomas G. McManaman, trustee, and Evelyn L. McManaman, trustee, to Kevin McManaman and Cynthia McManaman, 62 First St., $375,000.
John Phillips, personal representative of the Estate of Patricia A. Phillips, to Zachary Livingston.,1B Cross Street, $20,000.
Shire Home Solutions LLC, to Gabriel P. Lanciano and Sophia M. Lanciano, 3 Rand Road, $95,000.
David O. Cowles to David O. Cowles and Brian Kopinto, Route 20, $71,000.
Stacy L. Stewart, representative, and Susan Lynn Watson, estate, to Amanda N. Ursia and Robert J. Creanza, 110 Old State Road, $225,000.
Frank Krasin, trustee, Krasin-Hermsdorf Living Trust, Carol L. Hermsdorf, trustee, and Frank Krasin to Frank Krasin and William Krasin, 62 Fuller Road, $100.
Kimberly J. Rauscher, personal representative, Clarence E. Page IV, personal representative, Laura M. Rauscher, estate, and Laura Rauscher, estate, to Jordan H. Jaquess, Jennifer Marston, Ladd Watts and Alison Watts, 309 Ireland St., $450,000.
Alfred J. Albano Jr., commissioner, George Carvalho-Gendreau and Valerie LaPlante to Peter A. Lemieux and Matthew M. Lemieux, 66 Beaudry Ave., $230,000.
BMM Realty LLC, to Frantz Edouard Laporte, 433 Front St., $355,000.
Clement Walter Dumas and Rosemary Anna Dumas to Thom-
as J. Sawa and Denise Sawa, 90 Colonial Circle, Unit A, $184,000.
DCL General Construction LLC, to Diomedes Chavez, 18 Harding St., $390,000.
Roman Catholic Bishop of Springfield to Michelle L. Lancto, Mark E Lancto and Linda E. Lancto, 37 Hajec Circle, $325,000.
Haleigh R. Scott, Alexander B. Tsagaris and Haleigh R. Tsagaris to James McInerney and Sharyn McInerney, 6 Sesame Drive, $467,100.
Hussein Hamadi and Mariam Saleh to Ricky L. Cates, 24 Walnut St., $251,000.
Kimberly A. Runkle to Dominic Kirchner II, trustee, and Azusa Realty Trust, trustee of, 115 Saratoga Ave., $170,000.
Lucas Real Estate LLC, to Christopher Shaun Dodson, West Side Chicopee Street, $210,000.
Lynn M. Chlosta-Menard and Norman T. Menard Jr., to Robert E. King and Sandra M. Banta, 25 Freedom St., $320,000.
Paf Irrevocable Trust, trustee of, and Philip A. Frogameni Jr., trustee, to Jonah Holdings LLC, 310 Front St., $840,000.
Pah Properties LLC, to Kimberly A. Runkle, 119 Applewood Drive, Unit 6102A, $230,000.
Philip A. Frogameni Jr., trustee, and Paf Irrevocable Trust, trustee of, to Steven Hoheb, 339 Front St., $360,000.
Robert J. Lefebvre, commissioner, Keith Bedard and Michelle Laflamme to Evelyn C. Trier and John R. Dimatteo Jr., 43-45 Chapin St., $361,000.
Thomas Trudell to Robert Lussier Jr., 17 Woodcrest Court, $390,000.
Brenda M. Leduc, trustee of the Blue Kruse Family Trust, to Karen L. Parker, Route 112 Greenfield Road, “aka” Mountain Road, “aka” 1 Jacksonville Road, $70,000.
Robert B. Callahan to Brahm Callahan and Briton W. Callahan, 7 Cross St., $100.
Donald F. Anderson and Carolyn J. Lambert to 18 Knollwood Drive LLC, 42 Knollwood Drive, $270,000.
Jack R. Daponde, representative, Karen M. Daponde, estate, and Karen Daponde, estate, to Ramon Tapia, 66 Nelson St., $215,000.
Mark A. Haraty to Devan Paul Summers, Devan Summers, Chelsea Haraty Summers and Chelsea Summers, 5 Brynmawr Drive, $270,000.
Russell L. Morton and Russell W. Morton to Suzanne V. Weber, 4 Crescent Hill, $334,500.
Jadwiga T. Gryszan to Peter Tur and Grazyna Rowinska, 123 Holyoke St., $100.
Amelia V. Enright to James G. Jumes, trustee, and 210 Main Street Irrevocable Trust, 210 Main St., $100.
Alma June Escott to Elise Edwards, 3 Central St., $335,000.
Kathleen M. Berrena and Robert P. Berrena Jr., to Darrin Pensivy and Saharra Pensivy, 4 Corners Road, $110,000.
EDS Enterprises LLC, to Nancy Conner, 633 Bernardston Road, $599,000.
Gene J. Goldstein to Dan S. Alden and Catherine MacKinnon, 506 Country-Side Road, Unit 506, Country-Side Condominium. $312,700.
Kevin J. Cummings to House Hack Helpers LLC, 81-83 Hope St., $195,000.
HADLEY
Robert E. Leveille and Nancy S. Leveille to James N. Sullivan Jr., 6 Kozera Ave., $680,000.
HAMPDEN
Olga P. Mazzarino, representative, Anthony Joseph Mazzarino, estate, and Anthony J. Mazzarino, estate, to Hampden Town, O Walnut Road, $59,000.
Victor B. Scibelli to Richard C. Gelinas Jr., 15 Wilbraham Road, $350,000.
HOLLAND
Jason Schiller to Holland Outlook Trust, trustee of, and Peter E. Mongeau, trustee, Sturbridge Road, Lot B, $80,000.
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., to John David Holdcraft, 8 Heritage Drive, $180,000.
Stanley C. Clark to Joseph J. Clark IV, Burt Hill Road, $100.
SEE DEEDS, PAGE F8
Austin Clinton Destromp to Paul H. Malandrinos and Cheryl Malandrinos, 4 Maple Crest Circle, Unit E, $174,900.
EPB Real Estate Services LLC, to Marcelo F. Rocha, 77 Central Park Drive, $212,000.
Four Harps LLC, to Pah Properties LLC, 2.5 James St., $110,000.
Four Harps LLC, to Pah Properties LLC, 59 Pine St., $100,000.
Four Harps LLC, to Pah Properties LLC, 74 Pine St., $100,000.
Four Harps LLC, to Pah Properties LLC, 75 Pine St., $100,000.
Four Harps LLC, to Pah Properties LLC, 76 Pine St., $100,000.
Hector E. Concepcion and Christina Concepcion to Daryle Lloyd Swatzie, 60 Chapin St., Unit R, $130,000.
John P. Larose and Susan M. Larose to Christopher J. Larose and Brianna D. Larose, 154 Rock Valley Road, $350,000.
John P. Williams, representative, Joseph George Williams, estate, Joseph G. Williams, estate, and Joseph Williams, estate, to Alfredo Maldonado Sierra, 19 Donlee St., $95,000.
Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity Inc., to Antonia Santos, 360 Chestnut St., $290,000.
Richard A. Moussette, Ronald P. Moussette Jr., Karen J. Taylor and Steven R. Moussette to John P. Larose and Susan M. Larose, 99 Knollwood Circle, $260,000.
Robert B. Pulaski to Vladislav Bezrutchenko, Whitney Ave., Lot 41, $85,000.
Anthony Aveyard and Linda Aveyard to Usman Aslam and Mishaal Ashraf, 286 Hopkins Place, $457,500.
Donald H. Wesson, trustee, Gail C. Wesson, trustee, and Gail C. Wesson Trust, trustee of, to Steven A. Carra and Alexandra Lucey-Carra, 173 Farmington Road, $574,750.
U S A Housing & Urban Development to Anthony P. Aveyard and Linda Aveyard, 83 Longfellow Drive, $280,000.
Gary S. Veratti Jr., to David O’Brien and Jennifer O’Brien, 166 Converse St., $430,000.
Janee Mays to NRES LLC, 73 BelAir Drive, $312,000.
Ana Paula V. Dias to Tati & Cristi LLC, 274-276 East St., $300,000.
Dianne M. Easley to Michael Stefan Hajdamowicz and Savannah Marie Mccarl, 7 Ventura St., $285,000.
Dorothy A. Lobik to Turan Gun, 24 Elm St., $242,000.
John A. Pisarczyk, Richard Bergeron and Richard S. Bergeron to Diane Crane, 102 Motyka St., $243,000.
John Hartley McCullough and John Hartley McCollough to Kevin Cao and Yen Phi Cao, 665 Center St., Unit 308, $270,000.
Patricia Bernard and Patricia Duquette to William Raleigh and David Kachinski, 54 Cady St., $230,000.
Whitetail Wreks LLC, to Georgiy Sinigur and Oxana Sinigur, Balsam Hill Road, Lot 73, $176,400.
Bretta Construction LLC, to Alexander Basil Tsagaris and Haleigh Renea Tsagaris, 14 Upper Palmer Road, $639,000.
James W. Gustafson, Emelda L. Gustafson, Jennifer M. Dahlquist, Jennifer M. Zuelch and Eric J. Gustafson to Todd Eldredge-Rodowicz and Thomas Eldredge-Rodowicz, Maxwell Road Lot C, $30,000.
Robert G. Fields, Tamar Taitz Fields and Tamar Taitz-Fields to Robert G. Fields, trustee, Tamar Taitz-Fields, trustee, and Robert G. Fields Trust, 65 Columbus Ave., $100.
Yue Zhang and Yunyan Zou to Bethany Ferry, 80 Damon Road, $233,500.
Victoria M. Lucas to Claire Catherine Leavitt, 575 Bridge Road, $350,000.
Karen A. Normand to Sasha Statman-Weil and Adriana Pitetta Dufour, 8 Swan St., $420,000.
Valerie A. DuVall to Ramona M. Pinto and Thomas M. Pinto III, Fisher Road, “fka” South Mountain Road, $120,900.
Cynthia J. Harrington to Tracey J. Kuklewicz and Gary M. Weber, 15 South Mountain Road, $335,000.
Christine Goodwin and Daniel Goodwin to Jessica Schavrien, 20 Fieldstone Drive, $310,000.
Kenneth M. Capasso to Matthew Vincent Buscanera, 49 Cherry St., $320,000.
Elizabeth Murphy, personal representative of the Estate of David J. Murphy, to Ian Daniel Ledford and Catherine R. Walicki, 94 W. Orange Road, $299,900.
Barbara Racine and Fawna Johnson to Jamie Robinson, 1562 North Main St., Unit A, $270,000.
Christopher Welsh and Christine Ann Hill to Joseph Edward Messer, 4 Meadow Lane, $265,000.
Dominic Kirchner II, trustee, and Dorcas Realty Trust, trustee of, to Nicholas Tiscione and Brianna Peterson, 2026 Cross St., $368,000.
Joseph Sawicki to Derek R. Beaulieu, 2158-2160 Main St., $299,900.
Susan A. Williams, individually and as trustee of the Middletown Hill Trust, to Elizabeth Balawick and Kevin Balawick, 17 Middletown Hill Road, $70,000.
Melissa S. Quinn, “aka” Melissa L. Quinn, and Richard K. Quinn to Matthew Brown, 16 Hazelton Road, $250,000.
Judith M. Stolfo to Andrei Filistovich and Liubou Filistovich, 501 Woodland Way, $409,000.
Joanne I. Delong, trustee, and Joanne I. Delong Living Trust to Plata O Plomo Inc., 150 Lyman St., $300,000.
Maurie R. LaFlamme, Maurice LaFlamme, Arlene M. LaFlamme and Arlene LaFlamme to Arlene LaFlamme, trustee, Maurice LaFlamme, trustee, Arlene LaFlamme Living Trust and Maurice LaFlamme Living Trust, 355 North Main St., $100.
Maurie R. LaFlamme, Maurice LaFlamme, Arlene M. LaFlamme and Arlene LaFlamme to Arlene LaFlamme, trustee, Maurice LaFlamme, trustee, Arlene LaFlamme Living Trust and Maurice Laflamme Living Trust, 44 Bardwell St., 18-20 High St., and 16-18 Spring St., $100.
J.N. Duquette & Son Construction Inc., to Ahmed Elmogy and Hanan Elazab, 13 Lyon Green, $585,900.
Frank J. Grillo and Patricia A. Logan to MHI Properties LLC, 2 Lakemont St., $75,900.
Randy Wessels and Carla Wessels to Kimberly Hatch and Alexander Liptack, 21 Sterrett Drive,
$460,000.
Vanity Robert, representative, Jodi Robert, representative, and John Edward Robert, estate, to Sergey Domnenko and Aleksey Domnenko, 17 Castle St., $120,000.
Adolphus P. Christian to Cindy Tai, 60 E Alvord St., $337,750.
Bharatkumar S. Patel, trustee, Megha Jignesh Patel, trustee, Megha J. Patel, trustee, and 469 Boston Road Realty Trust, trustee of, to Pinkal & Hiral LLC, 469-475 Boston Road, $700,000.
Bonita Amtmann and Bridget McCarthy to Manuel Morocho Morocho, 167 Berkshire St., $214,900.
BRVSA Associates LLC, to MA Pine Street LLC, ES Pine Street, $200,000.
BRVSA Associates LLC, to Robert A. Fournier and Lynn Fournier, 12-14 Foster St., $200,000.
Candido Borges to Lewis Ramos, 37-39 Lyons St., $350,000.
Federal National Mortgage Association and Fannie Mae to Jack Palladino and Tatiana Garcia, 164 Balboa Drive, $319,900.
Citizens Bank to Israel Calderon, 60 Lexington St., $150,000.
Courageous Lion LLC, and Altostratus LLC, to Preferred Property Management Inc., 61 Victoria St., $145,000.
Courageous Lion LLC, and Altostratus LLC, to Preferred Property Management Inc., ES Methuen St., $145,000.
Cynthis A. Pereira, representative, Steven C. Roach, representative, and Jennie A. Stebbins, estate, to Xavier Cody and Julyvette Rodriguez, 44 Georgetown St., $180,000.
Daniel Cruz to Julian Solano and Joely Ventura, 208-210 White St., $265,000.
Equity Holding Corp., trustee, and 11-15 Clantoy Street Trust, trustee of, to B-9 Industries Inc., 11-15 Clantoy St., $180,000.
Equity Trust Co., custodian, Robert Lareau IRA, and Robert Lareau to Richard Abankwah, 77 Daviston St., $310,000.
Grace Marie Melendez Rivera to Wagner Baez Soto, 199 Eastern Ave., $365,000.
Gregory Szyluk, trustee, and Temple G3 Realty Nominee Trust, trustee of, to Cassi Stewart, 82 Temple St., $248,000.
Ian A. Riley to Inas Sarmad Alitbi, 25-27 Eagle St., $225,000.
Jaime J. Melendez to Muhammad Massum Taqi, 25 Huntington St., $320,000.
Janusz Lecko to Catrina M. Ham-
ilton and Felix R. Figueroa III, 82 Jardine St., $295,000.
John P. Doty and Caridad Doty Almeida to Joselyn Arroyo-Lopez, 23 Catalpa Terrace, $250,000.
JPS Realty LLC, to Ming Tsang and Lifang Luo-Cayode, 48 Enfield St., $375,000.
Julie Kamrowski to Valery E. Nater Pagan, 40 Price St., $175,200.
Junior R. McKenzie to Justin Curtis Ching, 93-95 Middlesex St., $320,000.
Katherine M. Nogiec and Greg Nogiec to Eduardo Arroyo Ramos and Veronica Lopez Alameda, 61 Leslie St., $184,000.
Kathryn A. Mulcahy to Cynthia Jean Mulcahy and Ian Michael Mulcahy, 80 Fenimore Boulevard, $240,000.
Lisa M. Martin and Willard Property Management LLC, to MDDO LLC, 103-105 Maryland St., $200,000.
Manchester Enterprises LLC, to Christian Hegland, 39 Blanding St., $240,000.
Marie-Martha Lachance, trustee, and 44 Lexington Street Realty Trust, trustee of, to Yongyao Cai and Meng Wang, 44-46 Lexington St., $322,000.
Mary F. Auldridge to Alcimar Rodrigues Da Silva, Eva Maria De De Jesus Silva and Eva Maria De Jesus Silva Rodrigues, 8 Maxwell Place, $240,000.
Mary Fitzgerald, Mary Bouchereau and Mary Thomas to DS Group Investments LLC, 72 Chesterfield Ave., $115,000.
Mary K. Miller to Michelle Urban-Flores, 78 Pennsylvania Ave., $282,500.
Pah Properties LLC, to Brandon Garey, 38 Worthy St., $280,000.
Paul D. Calder to Paul S. Roberts and Paul Roane Roberts, 20-22 Rutledge Ave., $350,000.
Rejuvenate Real Estate LLC, to Jose R. Garcia Sanchez and Genesis Y. Garcia Almonte, 83 Oak St., $335,000.
Roberto Rivera-Negron to Sophia N. Samms, 30 Farnsworth St., $315,000.
Ronelson Lovaincy and Marisa
Lovaincy to Teresa F. Young, 212 Breckwood Boulevard, $243,000.
Round Two LLC, to Evelyn Santos Sanchez, 28 Burke St., $247,000.
Tony E. French to Bryan E. Negron, 893 Saint James Ave., $265,000.
Tyrus T. Ferguson, representative, and Classie Ferguson, estate, to Tyrus T. Ferguson, 136 Maynard St., $155,000.
U S Bank, trustee, and RMTP Trust Series 2021 BKM-TT-V, trustee of, to Javed Shah, 136 Samuel St., $168,795.
Perhaps you have just graduated from college, just started your first job, or maybe you just rented your first apartment or purchased your first home, regardless it is an exciting rite of passage.
Part of the excitement relates to the opportunity to make a space your own, infusing your own taste and design sensibility. But good design doesn’t have to be expensive and there are a number of affordable ways to make your pad feel fun, yet sophisticated.
• High contrast. High contrast is a designer tip that anyone can use in their own space. Sometimes a single color palette can come across as unsophisticated, while using one that utilizes “high contrast” techniques such as black and white, light and dark, can come across as more luxurious.
• Pastel colors. Pastel colors are back. They are both youthful and sophisticated; don’t be afraid to use colors such as soft blue, pastel pink or mint green.
• High vs low. Designers do it on the runway, so why not do it in
your home? Mixing more expensive pieces with flea market or thrift store finds can be a fabulous way to create an overall sophisticated look.
• Decorate with books. Decorating with books is one of the most affordable ways to design, and a “go to” designer trick. One way to display books is to turn them “spline in” in order to create a consistent look.
• No stuffed animals. Stuffed animals are a no-no if you want your space to feel grown up and sophisticated. If you can’t bear to part with them, consider placing them in a decorative bin.
• Add greenery. Plants, succulents, florals and trees are both good for your environment as it relates to oxygen and health and are also a great way to infuse color and sophistication into your space
at an affordable price.
• Go for glass. Glass pieces of furniture are a fraction of the cost of pieces that are made out of wood. Glass coffee or dining tables can help to create an open, airy feel at an approachable price.
• Purchase quality large pieces. If you can afford it, try to buy one or two high quality pieces that you intend to own for years, if not decades to come. Some ideas of where to start include case goods such as armoires or dressers, beds and sofas.
• Consider leather. Leather if properly maintained, can be both long lasting and add an element of maturity to a space.
• Purchase inexpensive artwork. Artwork is like the icing on a cake and can really help to make sure a space feels complete. Framed art tends to look more expensive than
pieces that are not. Some ideas for inexpensive art include framing pieces of fabric, posters, calendars, wrapping paper and even post cards.
• Frame photographs. Whether they are from a vacation or your own collection, framed black and white photographs can be both interesting and mature.
• Add mirrors. Especially in smaller space, mirrors can really help to open a space and can even help to act as windows. Mirrors can also serve as an inexpensive design solution.
Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and the Hudson Valley.
club’s annual plant sale held each year in the spring. The annual plant sale this year will be held at Forest Park on Sumner Ave. on June 1 from 9 a.m. to noon.
For more information on the Springfield Garden Club and all of its events, visit spring fieldgardenclubma.org.
SPRINGFIELD
The Springfield Garden Club is currently hosting “Gardening Basics,” a series of classes on the basics of starting a garden. The next class is “Preparing Garden Soil” on March 9, followed by “Composting” on April 13. Classes will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturdays at the Shea Building at Forest Park, 300 Sumner Ave. The fee is $10 per class, and tickets are available on Eventbrite, by emailing spfldgardenclub@
CONTINUES FROM PAGE F8
Joseph Juhasz, trustee, and Juhasz
Tolland Nominee Trust, trustee of, to Joseph Juhasz, 101 Owls Nest Lane, $100.
James R. Reilly and Laurie Ann Reilly to Bradley Arcoite, 100 Stafford Road, $165,000.
WARE
Antonio J. Palano Jr., personal representative, and Antonio Joseph Palano III, estate, to G & W New Construction LLC, 31 Meadow Road, $185,000..
Joseph M. Garbiel to Brandon Andrews, 5-7 Belleview Ave., and 5-7 Bellevue Ave., $310,000.
TCC Realty Trust and Claire E. Ferrero, trustee, to Arthur A. Bellerive, 39, 40 and 48 Coffey Hill Road, $55,000.
Jeffrey M. Sorel and Robin Evans to Jeffrey M. Sorel and Robin Evans, 6-8 Mechanic St., $100. Blaise P. Berthiaume, commis-
gmail.com or by calling 413285-3163.
Berkshire Botanical Garden presents these upcoming programs:
• “Container Garden Design,” Wednesdays, March 6 through 27, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Acquire knowledge of the skills required for beautiful and successful container gardens with Jenna O’Brien, owner of Viridissima Horticulture and Design. This class will cover practical aspects of gardening in containers with style throughout the New England garden season. Cost $215 members, $240 nonmembers;
• “Cannabis as Medicine,” March 9, 1 to 4 p.m. “Cannabis as Medicine.” Kimberly Geiser gives an overview of the endocannabinoid system and how cannabis can be useful as medicine. You will be able to prepare the following at home: infused oils,
alcohol extracts, cannabis as food medicine, and how to test for potency. Sip tea, prepare together a cannabis extract, and turn that extract into a variety of different preparations. Participants will take home recipes and a prepared extract, and the confidence to do it at home. Cost is $90 members, $110 nonmembers;
• “Imagining and Observing Nature: Drawing,” March 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. With Ann Getsinger as a guide, participants will have the opportunity to work in mixed media on a variety of toned paper while working from natural forms like pods, cones, grasses, bones, etc, and imagination. Note: additional $10 materials fee. Cost is $100 members, $120 nonmembers.
To register for these programs and for more information, visit berkshirebotani cal.org. Berkshire Botanical Garden is located at 5 West Stockbridge Road.
The March meeting of the Wilbraham Garden Club will be held March 7 at noon in the parish hall at St. Cecilia’s Church on Main Street. A luncheon of sandwiches and desserts will be served. The speaker of the day will be Betsy Szymczak, who will give a presentation on “A Begonia for any Season.” She will speak on how to grow begonias both inside and outside.
Western Massachusetts Master Gardener Associations’ in-person Spring Gardening Symposia returns beginning March 23 in Westfield, April 6 in Lenox and April 13 in South Deerfield. For more information, regis-
tration forms and/or online registration visit wmmga. org.
The first symposium, “Let’s Get Growing,” will be held on March 23 at the Westfield South Middle School. This half-day event will allow attendees to select from a range of topics including “Planting for Birds in Your Backyard,” with Dan Ziomek from Sugarloaf Gardens; “Garden for Life: Using Native Plants in the Landscape,” with Kristen Nicholson from Blue Stem Natives Nursery; “Friend or Foe?
Helpful and Harmful Garden Insects and Worms,” with Dr. Olga Kostromytska, entomologist from UMass Extension and Stockbridge School of Agriculture; and “Pruning for Better Blooms,” with Jen Werner, horticulturist and retired professor of landscape design management at STCC, along with classes taught by WMMGA Master Gardeners.
Send items for Garden Notes to pmastriano@repub.com two weeks prior to publication.
sioner, Joseph E. Baillargeon Jr., and Lisa M. Bray to Travis Brown and Jenny Brown, 33 High St., and 33 ½ High St., $225,000.
Vibrant Ventures LLC, to First Landing Investments LLC, 82-84 North St., $135,000.
Vibrant Ventures LLC, to First Landing Investments LLC, 23-25 Dale St., $130,000.
First Landing Investments LLC, to Veloz & Associates LLC, 82-84 North St., $145,000.
First Landing Investments LLC, to Bezviner Real Estate Inc., 23-25 Dale St., $155,505.
Ansart Property Management LLC, to Carex Logistics Inc., 218B Day St., Unit 2C4B, $56,000.
Deepon Realty LLC, to Lawanda Cox, 68 Plateau Circle, $280,000.
Michael R. Harty, trustee, and Trust Thirteen Views Realty Nominee, trustee of, to Lakshmi Bhula Inc., 379 Riverdale St., $1,210,000.
Paul R. Seymour to Ansh Arya Inc., 45 Piper Cross Road, $910,000.
Paul R. Seymour, Sandra W. Seymour and Sandra J. Waterman to Ansh Arya Inc., 189 Morgan Road, $490,000.
Steven Scully and Lindsay D.
DiSantis, conservator, to Jared M. Longley and Heather A. Longley, 46 Fox St., $275,000.
Susan M. Goodhind, estate, and Jonathan A. Goodhind, representative, to James Roberts-Manning and Isabella Roberts-Manning, 107 Nelson St., $300,000.
21 Mainline LLC, to Brennan & Sons LLC, 21 Mainline Drive, $1,020,000.
Brandon L. Mobrice and Christina R. Mobrice to Steven R. Rosinski, 49 Roosevelt Ave., $252,000.
Brian P. Barnes and Julie L. Barnes to Brandon Lee Mobrice and Christina Renee Mobrice, 67 Farnham Lane, $450,000.
Cynthia R. King, representative, Doreen Progulske, estate, and Doreen Aldworth, estate, to No Limit Assets LLC, 14 Stuart Circle, $260,000.
Flowers By Webster LLC, to Baypoint Real Estate LLC, 52 Court St., $305,000.
Hilda Surprenant and Eileen Sullivan-Boss, conservator, to Frankie Cortes and Jacquelyn Serrano, 85 Granville Road, $365,000.
KMAK LLC, to Lismary Pagan Ortiz, 135 Meadow St., $335,000.
Rhetta Champion, representative, Deborah J. Phillips, representative, and Richard G. Champion, estate, to Jason S. Donadlson, trustee, and Coalie Realty Trust, trustee of, 23 Clinton Ave., $195,000.
Clonmacnoise Realty LLC, to Jason Cochran, 1 Old Bay Road, $475,000.
Joseph Belanger to Jon T. Kurowski and Katelynn J. Burnett, 117v Bartlett Ave., $286,500.
KS Diner Inc., to D&V Properties Holding LLC, 2391 Boston Road, $975,000.
Mary L. Russell, estate, Mary Lee Russell, estate, and Robert W. Russell, representative, to Michael
A. Bernardes and Crystal M. Bernardes, 2V Rice Drive, $10,000.
Tony Vital and Anna Vital to Wilson & Family Real Estate LLC, 4 Hillcrest Drive, $115,000. Walter M. Presz III, and Kristin Presz to Tim Real Estate LLC, 136V Washington Road, $110,000.
Sharon A. Loomis to Keely Savoie Sexton, 26 Mountain St., $453,600.
CE & APA Inc., to Kyle Dempsey and Ally Brown, Huntington Road, $77,500.
The Meadows
Condos #61, off Washington & off Maple Road
Sat. 3/2, 9-5
Sun. 3/3, 9-5
Beautiful 3 floor condo, packed w/nice items. 2019 Honda Civic Sedan, 16,000 orig. mi. Exc. cond. Leather 3 pc. livingrm set, TV’s, 8’ slate top pool table w/mesh pockets, bedrm sets, sec’l sofa, loads of nice wicker, tables, lamps, 2 bikes, much linen, holiday, gas grill, piano, china & glass. Many country items. Please park in visitor parking or only on one side of the street and don’t block garages.
John & Jackie
M.R. Russo Company
Springfield - 44 Fairfield St., Sat. 3/2, Sun. 3/3, 10am6pm.
4
$100.00. Call for details 413-244-8046
2 Chihuahua puppies, male & female, 6 weeks old, $600/ea. Call 413-786-0957 or 413-561-5177
8 weeks, AKC pure bred Boston Terrier Puppies, 4 available (3M & 1F), one red and white. Call 413-207-4664
Puppy, 2 months, Black Lab Mix. $400. Call 413-244-8046
Westie/Beagle Puppies, 3 females, 2 males, vet checked, 1st vac. Ready for Christmas $500. Adult Beagle fem. 3 yrs old $200. 413-596-8190
Yorkie puppy, traditional color, 9 wks old upto date with shots, dewormed, parents on premises. This puppy is going to be tiny. Ready to go. $1900. Call 413-777-3536
