Home & Garden
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IN THE GARDEN: The appealing, old-time names of vegetables, F4
ANTIQUES: From Asian rug to bench upholstery, F6
In defense of sad beige
By K assia St. C lair
The Washington Post
YOU DON’T HAVE TO LOOK hard to find people being rude about neutrals. “Sad beige” and “millennial gray” have become go-to pejoratives to describe everything from children’s playrooms to entire ways of living. During the pandemic, as searches on Etsy for beige children’s clothing rose 67 percent, Hayley DeRoche amassed hundreds of thousands of followers while skewering the trend from her handle @sadbeige. One viral video mocked a monochrome gray restroom: “It’s giving airport. It’s giving ‘live, laugh, love.’ It’s giving corporate.” In these missives, neutrals aren’t a reflection of color preference, but of a personality problem.
Neutrals disdain is not new. Paula Scher, the now 76-year-old legendary graphic designer, declared beige to be “the color of indecision.” Further back still, John Ruskin, the 19th-century British critic, wrote — ostensibly about another era but with an eye to his own, too — despairingly that his generation had been trained “to think that meal-color and ash-color are the properest colors of all; and that the most aristocratic harmonies are to be deduced out of grey mortar and creamy stucco.” Gray and brown, he concluded with a flourish, are “hues of distress, despair, and mortification.”
The term “neutrals” is a slippery one. Say it and most people will picture a palette of muted, calm, low-saturation colors, the core constituents of which include cream, beige, taupe, gray, brown and off-white, often layered one atop another. Beyond that, context
comes into play. In fashion, black, navy, khaki and burgundy are considered neutrals; paint your walls to match, and it would be something of a statement. The category also subtly expands and contracts over time. Every few months, magazines or influencers will claim that some shade or other — lavender, caramel, sage, dusty pink — is the season’s “new neutral.” Some, such as khaki, do sneak into the category and persist for years or even decades, but most do not. Perhaps the surest test of a neutral is that it is easy, livable, doesn’t stand out or date quickly and pairs well with both other neutrals for a tonal scheme or as a foil to bolder shades.
If none of that sounds like a negative and you remain mystified by the mockery leveled at these unassuming tints, you’re in a comfortable majority. Neutrals are overwhelmingly the most popular, default or practical color choices and have been for well over a century. Neutral wall paints outsell jewel and primary brights by thousands of gallons. Black and camel coats remain classics, while their counterparts in grass green and candy pink are novelties. Neutrals are the colors that call to mind materials such as marble, stone, wood and linen and are associated with words such as “soothing,” “natural,” “tasteful” and “calm.” In short, the commercial and cultural power of neutrals seems unassailable.
This was not always the case. Historically speaking, people wanted to spend their money on textiles, ornamentation and pigments that were as bright and saturated as possible. In the ancient world, hues such as purple, blue and red were the most highly prized, at
times worth more than gold. The raw materials — murex sea snails, lapis lazuli, cochineal insects and fine indigo — were traded over huge distances and were reserved, often by law, for the most powerful. Those without money and status were left with the dregs of the dye baths, pigments that could be readily scooped from the earth or raw materials in their natural state. The palette of poverty was one of muddy, desaturated colors that blended into the natural world. An echo of this history is actually embedded in the word beige itself, which comes from a French term for wool that had yet to be bleached and dyed.
This began changing in the second half of the 19th century. As chemists created more synthetic colorants and bright materials became more affordable, tastemakers sought out and promoted subtler, more natural tints. “Truth to materials” became a key tenet of the Arts and Crafts movement, while Aesthetes and their arch advocate Oscar Wilde promoted a palette of offbeat “art colors” that supposedly echoed those found in the natural world and were more sophisticated than the brash synthetics.
By the mid-20th century, neutrals had an established luxury pedigree. Christian Dior is believed to have announced that gray “will prevail,” at the height of his career in the 1940s. His signature tint — a warm, silvery shade called Trianon or Montaigne gray that recalled the gravel driveway of his childhood home — has been a brand signature ever since, deployed as a way of drawing the eye to fastidious details that might be missed on a garment in a showier shade. Gabrielle Chanel and her maison have been similarly enamored with beige, a love said to be inspired either by the sandy beach
at Deauville in France or the plain, stretchy jersey of her lover’s sportswear. Later, Phoebe Philo, while at the helm of Chloé and Céline in the 2000s and 2010s, made flowing clothes that mixed masculine tailoring with peekaboo femininity in tonal taupe, cream, greige and beige into cool-girl staples and shifted the trajectory of the luxury industry. Today, most agree that the future looks bright for neutrals. For every skeptic mocking sad beige and millennial gray, there is a score of others using phrases such as “quiet luxury,” “stealth wealth,” “thoughtful Scandinavian minimalism” and “Japandi style.” For Jane Boddy, a trend forecaster and member of the Pantone Color Institute, the appetite for neutrals continues to be a way of focusing on quality of materials and design, but there are other factors at play, too. She sees neutrals becoming more complex, with mellow undertones of peach, yellow, lilac or green.
Joanne Thomas, director of color at the Fashion Snoops trend forecasting agency, points out that neutrals “signal affluence through subtlety” and “photograph beautifully,” reflecting the kind of curated lifestyles that perform well on social media. They exude, in her words, “a sense of calm, simplicity and control,” something that is particularly appealing when global events feel overwhelming.
Because few would accuse today’s current events of lacking drama, it seems likely neutrals will remain a well-established cultural juggernaut. This will, of course, make them an irresistible target for anyone determined to skewer the status quo and present themselves as countercultural. Realists, however, know that neutrals are inevitable, the chromatic equivalent of death and taxes. No matter how cruel the gibes, you needn’t feel sad for beige.
It seems likely neutrals will remain a well-established cultural juggernaut.
(PHOTO / COVER PHOTO ADOBE STOCK IMAGES)
By the mid-20th century, neutrals had an established luxury pedigree. (ADOBE STOCK IMAGE)
Lee Reich | In the Garden
Some interesting old-time names for veggies
WITH ONLY A NAME TO go on, which tomato would you choose to grow: Supersonic or Oxheart?
If the name Oxheart seems a bit too gruesome, choose between Supersonic and Ponderosa. My guess is that most gardeners would choose Oxheart or Ponderosa for a tomato, Supersonic for an airline. What compels a contemporary plant breeder to give a tomato a name like Supersonic?
Many old-time names of vegetables — Oxheart and Ponderosa tomatoes are examples — were a lot more appealing than some of the newer names. It could even be that a good name is part of the reason a vegetable of yore still appears in today’s catalogues amongst all the new hybrids. These names I am talking about are “cultivar” names, or what were once called “variety” names. Problem is that the word “variety” can have two meanings with respect to plants, referring either to a horticultural variety or a botanical variety. To avoid confusion between the two meanings, the word “cultivar” (conjunction of “cultivated” and “variety”) was written into the International Code of Nomenclature of Cultivated Plants in 1958.
A botanical variety is a naturally occurring population of plants one subdivision below the species level. A cultivar is a cultivated variety of plant. All cabbages are Brassica oleraceae var. capitata; all broccolis are Brassica oleraceae var. italica.
Early Jersey Wakefield is one cultivated variety, or cultivar, of cabbage, designated, in full, as Brassica oleraceae var. capitata cv. Early Jersey Wakefield. No need to rattle off this whole name when you’re looking for a pack of this seed. Just ask for “Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage.”
Many old-time cultivars have interesting names, interesting sometimes for no other reason than because the rationale behind the name is not immediately obvious. As I thumb through a catalogue of vegetable cultivars, I can’t help but wonder why anyone would name a parsnip cultivar The Student. The same goes for Old Bloody Butcher corn and the Missing Link apple.
Such names surely were not chosen as marketing ploys. In the case of the string bean cultivar Lazy Wife, the rationale behind the (sexist) name is not at all obscure (old-fashioned string beans had to be de-stringed). Compare such clever names with those of
some of today’s cultivars — Superhybrid eggplant, Green Duke broccoli, or Bounty green bean.
Some of the old cultivar names have a nice ring to them. Who can resist growing a corn called Country Gentleman, or a bean called Red Valentine? Such names are more appealing than cutesy names like Kandy Korn corn or Tasty Hybrid pepper. Well, at least the pepper is Tasty Hybrid, rather than Tastee Hybrid.
Which cultivar name sounds more appealing to you: Red-Cored Chantenay carrot or Six-Pack carrot? Calabrese broccoli or Packman (or is it Pac-Man?) broccoli?
Some of the old names might have had appeal in their day but just would not fly today. With metropolitan New York City looming closer than ever, Hackensack melon can’t evoke the bucolic tang it did back in 1929. And I doubt that any plant breeder today would name a beet cultivar Detroit Dark Red.
Nothing against Detroit, but it is a name better applied to an automo -
GARDEN NOTES
SOUTHWICK Planning your garden program
Southwick Public Library, 95 Feeding Hills Road, presents “Planning Your Garden” program with Deb Humphrey on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 6:30 p.m. Participants should bring a rough measurement of the garden site you plan on planting. She will discuss making a plot plan and taking into consideration the sun, companion planting, soil conditions, and what needs to be started early. Create a seed list (and check out the SPL’s seed library while you’re here). Please register so they know how many to expect. To register, call the library 413569-1221 ext. 105 or register online at: https://www. southwickma.org/ southwick-public-library.
STOCKBRIDGE
Upcoming program at Berkshire Botanical Garden
bile or a kind of music than to a beet cultivar.
Before you lovers of Supersonic, Jetstar, and Ultra-Boy tomatoes get your hackles up, remember that I’m not knocking the quality of these varieties — whoops, cultivars — but only their names.
In fact, appealing names often were assigned to cultivars of dubious merit in the past. The name Sops of Wine makes my mouth water more than did the actual apple. The same goes for Maiden Blush apple — beautiful name (and beautiful fruit), but mediocre eating quality. On the other hand, how about the luscious, relatively modern apple with the vapid name of Jonagold. The appellation was derived simply by combining the names of its parents, Jonathan and Golden Delicious.
As you peruse seed racks, garden catalogues, and websites in the coming weeks, think about what makes you choose one cultivar over another. By the way, for flavor, I highly recommend Early Jersey Wakefield cabbage.
Berkshire Botanical Garden presents the following upcoming program: Saturday, Feb. 8, 1 to 3 p.m., “Kitchen Witch’n-Herbal Remedies from your Kitchen.” In this workshop with Kimberly Geisler, discover how common herbs and ingredients from your pantry, fridge and spice cabinet can be made into natural remedies for everyday ailments. Explore kitchen-based solutions for cold and flu relief, stress, headaches, first aid, digestive upsets, and other ailments. Join us to unlock the healing potential hidden in your kitchen, and support wellness from the heart of your home. Cost $45 members, $60 nonmembers; To register or for more information, visit www.berkshire botanical.org. Berkshire Botanical Garden is located at 5 West Stockbridge Road.
These are all different varieties of ripe okra pods. (LEE REICH PHOTO)
SPRINGFIELD
Springfield Garden Club upcoming gardening series
The Springfield Garden Club will host “Year Round Color in the Garden Horticultural Workshops” a series of classes for anyone interested in year-round interest in their yards and gardens. The programs will be at 2 p.m. on Sundays in Feb. Sunday, Feb. 9, is “Trees that Bring Joy all Year Long” Looking to plant and care for a small tree that you will enjoy year-round? Learn which small trees bring joy to both you and the wildlife around you. Where best to place them and learn how to make sure they survive in our changing climate. Led by Alex Sherman, Tree Warden and City Forester for Springfield. Sunday, Feb. 23, is “Landscaping for Year-Round Beauty” Want to enjoy your garden more in the spring, summer, fall, and winter? Learn how to design a garden that showcases vibrant color and fascinating textures that make it shine in every season.
The classes will be held in the Old Monkey House, in Forest Park on Sumner Ave. The fee is $10 per class and tickets are available at the door, on Eventbrite, by emailing spfldgardenclub@ gmail.com or by calling 413285-3163.
For more information on this and other Springfield Garden Club events go to www.gcfm.org/springfieldgardenclub or visit them on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/ SpringfieldMAGardenClub/
WILBRAHAM
Wilbraham Garden Club Scholarship
The Wilbraham Garden Club announces that applications are now being accepted for two, $1000 scholarships to financially assist graduat-
ing seniors, who are residents of Wilbraham or Hampden, as they transition to an institution of higher learning.
All applicants must be planning to major in one of these fields of study: Botany, Horticulture, Conservation, Environmental Engineering, Environment Science, Earth Systems, Forest Management, Natural Resources, Plant, Soil and Insect Science, Sustainable Agriculture, Sustainable Horticulture, Food and Farming, Turf Grass Science & Management, Landscape Design & Management Technology, Landscape Architecture, Oceanography, Clean Energy Technology, Floral Design or Land Management.
Applicants must include a personal essay of 100-200 words, official high school transcript(s), two letters of recommendation, college acceptance letter(s) if available, along with the completed Wilbraham Garden Club Scholarship application.
All required documentation must be received on or before March 31. Notifications will be made by early May, and the recipients will be awarded their scholarships at the annual meeting of the Wilbraham Garden Club on June 5.
Scholarship applications will be available at the Wilbraham and Hampden Public Libraries, Minnechaug Regional High School and Wilbraham Monson Academy. Contact howella413@ gmail.com with questions or to receive an application.
EAST LONGMEADOW East Longmeadow Garden Club
Scholarship
$1,000 Garden Club Scholarship Applications are now available for the 2025 Esther A. Rosati Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 at the East Longmeadow High School guidance office, the East Longmeadow Public Library and can be downloaded from eastlongmeadowgard.wixsite.com/ gardens
Applicants must: pres-
ently be an East Longmeadow High School senior or a recent graduate of East Longmeadow High school who is planning to attend an institution of higher learning in the fall of 2025; or an East Longmeadow High School graduate student who is a resident of East Longmeadow and is attending an institution of higher learning; or an East Longmeadow High School student who is a resident and has been accepted to partic-
ipate in a special academic program.
All applicants must be planning to pursue a degree in Agriculture, Botany, Conservation, Ecology, Enviornmental Science or any other related field. Applications and a copy of an official transcript must be received on or before March 15. Applicants being considered may be contacted by the East Longmeadow Garden Club’s Scholarship Committee for an interview.
The recipient will be awarded the $1,000 scholarship at the annual May meeting of the East Longmeadow Garden Club. Send completed application and transcript to: East Longmeadow Garden Club Scholarship Committee, c/o Diane A. Tiago, 38 Rogers Road, East Longmeadow, MA 01028.
Send items for Garden Notes to pmastriano@repub.com two weeks prior to publication.
Terry & Kim Kovel | Antiques & Collecting
An Asian rug becomes bench upholstery
AKILIM IS A TYPE OF RUG that originated in Asia, falling into the broad category of Oriental rugs. The earliest known examples were found in China, and the most famous come from western Asia. Unlike pile-woven rugs, which have a thick, tufted texture made from thousands of knotted threads, kilims are flat woven, tapestry style, typically from wool. Their designs are usually geometric and often symbolic. Oriental rugs were introduced to western Europe and America by the 18th century. Thanks to the quality of the weaving and beauty of the designs, they quickly became fashionable luxury items. They weren’t just for the floor; paintings show them covering tables. Some decorators will hang them on the wall as decoration and extra insulation. The durable fabric, not to mention the attractive colors and patterns, also make them appealing options for upholstery. This bench, which sold for $594 at Thomaston Place Auction Galleries, is upholstered with a kilim. According to the description, it was made in the 20th century, but the fabric came from an earlier rug. It may have been a way to repurpose a worn or damaged rug, indicating that what we now call recycling or upcycling has been around for a long time.
Q. I have some treasures from my grandmother that have been in the family for many years, like a cut glass bowl with 12 matching shallow bowls. Sadly, I have discovered that my children do not want them. I would like to sell them to someone who would appreciate them. Would you tell me their approximate value and how I would go about selling them for a fair price?
A. As you may expect, this is not an uncommon situation; not everyone wants to inherit their family’s antiques. But there are many collectors who would happily give them a good home. Check local antiques or consignment shops to see if they sell similar items. If possible, look for reviews or ask for references. To determine a fair price, it helps to have as much information as possible about your items. There are many books available to help you identify your cut glass and find pattern names. Look for “American Cut and Engraved Glass” by A. C. Revi or “The Encyclopedia of American Cut and
Rugs aren’t just for covering the floor. An antique kilim rug, a style originating in Western Asia, found another life as upholstery for a 20th-century bench.
(THOMASTON PLACE AUCTION GALLERIES)
Engraved Glass.” A collector’s club like the American Cut Glass Association (cutglass.org) may have more information to help you identify and sell your glass bowls. Another option for glassware is to sell to a pattern-matching service.
Q. I purchased this metal container about 40 years ago. The owner said he bought it in Japan. It is in perfect condition and has an ornate design with towers and a small boat floating among tall grasses. It seems to be made of bronze. What is it used for and what is your judgment of its value?
A. It sounds like you have a bronze censer, used for burning incense. Incense was used in Japan for Buddhist ceremonies by the sixth century and became an important part of Japanese culture and status symbol among the wealthy. Some Japanese censers are made to use in tea ceremonies. Early censers were usually made of porcelain or wood. Bronze censers with elaborate decorations became popular in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. These are often collected today. Depending on their size and condition, bronze censers are usually worth about $100 to $400.
Q. We found a ceramic frog in our mother’s estate. It is signed “E. Galle” and “Nancy” below the
name, but we do not know if it is authentic. How do we determine the authenticity? If it is authentic, what is it worth?
A. You are right to be skeptical; there are many fakes of famous pottery pieces, and an authentic-looking mark isn’t always what it seems. There are several European potteries that made animal figures that look like Galle’s, like Mosanic and Fayencerie Augy, but their pieces are usually marked for their own companies, not with Galle’s mark. We recommend contacting an antiques dealer or auction house in your area, preferably one familiar with Galle or early 20th-century pottery, if possible. You may need to take your frog to be examined in person. Pottery fakes are often caught through details like the weight of the piece (fakes are usually lighter so they are easier to ship), the texture of the glaze or the color of any exposed clay. If your piece turns out to be a fake, it may still be worth hundreds of dollars. We have seen “Galle-style” or “Galle-attributed” pottery sell for about $100 to $250. Authentic Galle animal figures can sell for about $500 to over $1,000.
TIP: If you reupholster an antique piece of furniture, save some of the original fabric. Put it in an envelope and tape it to the bottom of the seat so future owners can know more about the original appearance. When selling a piece, this sort of history will add to the 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. 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.
CURRENT PRICES
Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the United States. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions.
Aluminum, tray, brass handles, figural, ducks’ heads, Herco S.A., Mexico, late 20th century, 16 x 27 inches, $30. World’s Fair, medal, 1901, Alaska-Yukon-Pacific, gilt, embossed, three figures, William H. Seward bust, Seal of Seattle on reverse, black ribbon, medal, 1 inch, $105.
Quilt, crazy, multicolor, embroidered animals, gray flannel backing, marked, Completed February 1915, 85 x 82 inches, $120.
Lamp, electric, Quezal glass shade, iridescent gold, ruffled, brass base, curved stem, marked, Chase, early 1900s, 15 inches, $200.
Porcelain-Chinese, planter, fishbowl, phoenixes and flowers around exterior, orange, yellow, blue, goldfish and coral interior, 19 x 22 1/2 inches, $225. Advertising, warmer, Hy-Power Tamales, Rutherford Chile Co., red label, stainless, electric, American Metalware Co., Chicago, 14 x 17 inches, $255. Garden, figure, dog, sitting, ears raised, painted, black, white spots on face, red collar, cement, c. 1940, 16 1/2 inches, $290.
Furniture, chair, Federal, mahogany, pierced shield back, inlay, upholstered seat, box stretcher, refinished, early 1800s, 38 1/2 inches, $750.
Toy, horse, riding, folk art, painted, hair mane and tail, leather saddle, on platform, painted border, geometric, multicolor, wheels, Victorian, 23 x 28 inches, $895.
Minton, tazza, square bowl, ivory ground, slate blue panel, pate-sur-pate scene, seated figure, pierced handles, square base, gilt trim, early 20th century, 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 inches, pair, $1,965.
Average rate on 30-year mortgage remains just below 7%
Rate eases for second week in a row
By A lex Veiga Associated Press
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage in the U.S. eased for the second week in a row, but remains just below 7%, little relief for prospective home shoppers looking ahead to the spring homebuying season.
The rate fell to 6.95% from 6.96% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, it averaged 6.63%.
Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with homeowners seeking to refinance their home loan to a lower rate, also eased this week. The average rate dropped to 6.12% from 6.16% last week. A year ago, it averaged 5.94%, Freddie Mac said.
Mortgage rates are influenced by several factors, including
Deeds
AGAWAM
how the bond market reacts to the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy decisions. The average rate on a 30-year mortgage briefly fell to a two-year low just above 6% last September, but has been mostly rising since then, echoing a sharp rise in the 10-year Treasury yield, which lenders use as a guide for pricing home loans.
The yield, which was at 3.62% in mid-September, reached 4.79% two weeks ago amid fears inflation may remain stubbornly higher than the Fed’s 2% target. A solid U.S. economy and worries about tariffs and other policies potentially coming from President Donald Trump have also helped push bond yields higher.
The 10-year Treasury yield was at 4.53% in midday trading Thursday.
Elevated mortgage rates, which can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for
Christine M. Losito, George A. Hill II, Richard T. Hill, April D. Hill and Keith D. Hill to Stephen Joseph Grabowski and Pamela Dorothy Collette, 66 South Westfield St., $275,000.
Debra B. Brignoli to Jeffrey D. Paquin and Donna M. Paquin, 17 Giffin Place, $335,000.
Elena M. Wells to Winfield S. Safford and Patricia A. Safford, 5 Granger Drive, $420,000.
Felicia A. Skowyra to Mikki A. LaFlamme-Champigny and William J. Lynch, South West Street, Lot 2A, $368,000.
Jillian M. Thibault to Raymond Parent and Susan Parent, 65 Harvey Johnson Drive, $310,000.
John E. Lens, Christine Lens Damico, Irene Lens-Baumgaertner and Nancy J. Lens to Hayden Michael Mendrala and Madison Yvonne O’Connell, 452 North West St., $290,000.
Kenneth M. Pietras and Janice H. Pietras to David R. Champiney and Constance P. Champiney, 795 N West St., $525,000.
Ronald J. Pudlo and Pamela A. Pudlo to Clark L. Dore, James Acerra and Victor Ferrentino, 61 Carmel Lane, $145,000.
Rosemary Healey to Joseph Oliver, 1 Mansion Woods Drive, Unit G, $258,000.
Sandra J. Forni to Steven M. Forni and Caroline Rice Forni, 518 Franklin St. Extn., $450,000.
Tammy M. Basdekis to Benjamin Henle and Makayla Pemberton, 13H Mansion Woods,
borrowers, have discouraged home shoppers, prolonging a national home sales slump that began in 2022.
While sales of previously occupied U.S. homes rose in December for the third month in a row, 2024 was the worst year for home sales in nearly 30 years, worse than 2023, which had been the worst in decades.
“Driven by these higher rates and a persistent supply shortage, affordability hurdles still exist for many homebuyers and a significant number of them remain on the sidelines,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist.
New data on pending home sales points to potentially further declines in coming months. The National Association of Realtor’s pending home sales index fell 5.5% in December from the previous month, ending a four-month streak of increases, the trade group said
$272,500.
Thomas M. Roberts III, and Lindsey Roberts to Joel M. Coelho and Mariana Coelho, 65 Pheasant Run Circle, $440,000.
William Lynch and Mikki LaFlamme Champigny to Joshua Mitchell, 92 Sylvan Lane, $251,000.
Zekion Properties LLC, to Zackery Canady-Mitchell, 50 Regency Park Drive, Unit 50, $165,000.
AMHERST
Ramona Tomlinson, Tyler J. Tomlinson and Devin R. Tomlinson to Rebecca Gonzalez-Kreisberg, 26 Pine Grove, $250,000.
Isabella Halsted and John C. Halsted, attorney-in-fact, to Tyler J. Tomlinson, Devin R. Tomlinson, Ramona Tomlinson and Life Estate, 35 Pine Grove, $175,000.
Louis J. Beyer, personal representative, and Judith A. Beyer, estate, to Willray Properties LLC, 38 Pine St., $385,000.
Jeremy D. Ober to Emmanuel Simon Pierre Branlard, 50 Meadow St., $330,500.
William J. MacKnight and Carol B. MacKnight to William J. MacKnight, trustee, Carol B. MacKnight, trustee, and William & Carol MacKnight 2025 Trust, 127 Sunset Ave., $100.
Mary Elizabeth McInnis to Scott Kaplan, 820 South East St., $765,000.
BELCHERTOWN
M & G Land Development LLC, to Theodore J. LeBlanc III, and Sarah LeBlanc, 40 Munsell St., $541,081.
Thursday. Pending transactions fell 5% compared to December 2023.
A lag of a month or two usually exists between when a contract is signed and when the home sale is finalized, which makes pending home sales a bellwether for future completed home sales.
As home sales have slowed, the inventory of properties on the market has been increasing. While still low by historical standards, the number of homes for sale nationally is up nearly 25% this month from a year ago, according to Realtor. com.
That’s good news for home shoppers who can afford to buy with mortgage rates at current levels or pay all cash.
For those hoping that mortgage rates will come down significantly, however, economists say that’s unlikely.
Several economists’ forecasts
Ariana C. Picardi, Angelina R. Picardi, Carmine Picardi and Patricia Picardi to John Rafferty and Eva F. Rafferty, 25 Helen Lane, $575,000.
Wells Fargo Bank NA, trustee, Soundview Home Loan Trust and PHH Mortgage Corp., attorney-in-fact, to MA Home Buyers LLC, 445 Michael Sears Road, $225,225.
Lois A. Hatt to Pacheco Property Holdings LLC, 11 Jensen St., $187,000.
David Lesiege and Dawn Lesiege to Jeremy Beal, 257 Old Enfield Road, $397,500.
Kandis Kattler, personal representative, and Lorraine V. Bachand, estate, to Kelsey D. McDonough and Sean T. McDonough, 52 Warren Wright Road, $325,000.
BERNARDSTON
Van Bro Co. LLC, to Village View Apartments LLC, 31 Church St., $490,000.
BRIMFIELD
Kim Ames and Van K. Nguyen to United Kirat Rai Organization of America, 14 Paige Hill Road, $135,000.
Margaret A. Coan to Roger D. Richard and Laurie A. Richard, 1084 Dunhamtown Brimfield Road, $650,000.
CHESTER
Jacob Trudeau to Michael G. Omelia, 0 Elder Road, $85,000.
James R. Wellspeak Jr., Donna L. Monteiro, Donna L. Castagna and Darleen M. Buikus to Jesus Jimenez-Rodriguez, 56-58 Middlefield
call for the average rate on a 30-year mortgage to remain above 6% this year, with some including an upper range as high as 6.8%.
The Federal Reserve left its benchmark interest rate unchanged Wednesday after cutting it three times in a row last year, a sign of a more cautious approach as the Fed seeks to gauge where inflation is headed and what policies the Trump administration will pursue.
While the Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates, the central bank’s decision to keep its main interest rate unchanged likely means mortgage rates won’t budge much in the near term.
“With the Fed on hold, we do expect that longer-term rates, including mortgage rates, will also stay within a narrow range for the foreseeable future,” said Mike Fratantoni, chief economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association.
Road, $270,000.
CHICOPEE
Deborah L. Pouliot, Cheryl A. Mullen, Doreen D. Skorupski and Laurie L. Cole to Enrique Galarza and Nicole A. Galarza, 7 Gaspee St., $345,000.
DMS Properties LLC, to Josette Silaire and Elaine Joseph, 137 Bay State Road, $300,000.
Drew Petrolati to Gerard Valliere, 269 Chicopee St., Unit 18, $115,000.
Judith G. Wolcott, Dolores J. Peters, Pamela S. Reidpath, Kenneth F. Wolcott Jr., Kenneth Fowles Wolcott, Steven J. Wolcott, Martha Linn and Martha E. Linn to Cynthia Montanez, 107 Clairmont Ave., $289,000.
Chicopee Property Management LLC, to AK Remodeling Inc., Chicopee Street Lot 6, $135,000.
Chicopee Property Management LLC, to Timofey Pchelka, Empire Street, Lot 4, $270,000.
Robert A. Arcott and Robert J. Arcott to 91 Providence Street LLC, 91 Providence St., $667,500.
Tri-City Management Inc., to Johanny Siri, 33 Regency Court, $265,000.
COLRAIN
Nirvana Jokic to Carolyn Shields and Thomas Shields, Ed Clark Road, $57,500.
Fannie Mae, “aka” Federal National Mortgage Association, to Bruce A. Boulter, 45 Dwight Cross Road, $41,000.
Deeds
CUMMINGTON
April L. Kelley, personal representative, and Dolores C. Hatfield, estate, to Vanessa Lewis, 485 West Cummington Road, $50,000.
DEERFIELD
Judith A. Wrenn, trustee of the Kownacki Investment Trust, to Kelly Kicza and Timothy David Kicza, North Hillside Road, $300,000.
Deborah A. Sokoloski and Mark A. Sokoloski to Alexander C. Golec and Madelyn T. Golec, 242 Upper Road, $385,000.
Allison L. Howard, “aka” Allison Howard, Brendan R. Johnson and Shawn P. Johnson to Gregory C. Tudryn, trustee of the Gregory C. Tudryn Living Trust, 11B Snowberry Circle, Unit 3B, Sugarloaf Condominium, $470,000.
EAST LONGMEADOW
Jeffrey D. Paquin and Donna M. Paquin to Jake Belanger and Sarah Belanger, 855 Somers Road, $451,000.
Marth-E LLC, to Jeffrey Panting-Crespo, 421 Prospect St., $599,900.
Matthew L. Weiss and Caitlin M. Weiss to Jonathan Twyman and Jessica Anthes, 118 Thompkins Ave., $275,000.
Michael W. Keating, Stephen R. Keating and Timothy J. Keating to Dominic Kirchner II, trustee, and Lumturi Realty Trust, trustee of, 101 Melwoood Ave., $330,000.
PAH Properties LLC, to Jonida Balazi and Ryan MacDonald, 9 Edwill Road, $475,000.
Timothy F. Sirard and Lisa M. Sirard to Ryan Hess and Jillian Houle Hess, 89 Pine Grove Circle, $820,000. WN Management LLC, to HC Twinkle LLC, 600 North Main St., $700,000.
EASTHAMPTON
Karen A. Essa, trustee, and Essa Family Trust to Regina Grant, 23-25 High St., $500,000.
Christopher T. Huxley and Courtney Huxley to Ian Hogan, 12 Gula Drive, $355,000.
David A. Hardy Contractor LLC, to Christopher T. Huxley and Courtney E. Huxley, 66 Pomeroy St., $710,000.
Thomas Kirschner and Christina Kirschner to Carlton C. Henderson, trustee, Clarissa P. Chan, trustee, and Carlton & Clarissa Family Trust, 106 Clark St., $452,441.
Lily C. Goon to Richard LaBombard
and Barbara LaBombard, 2 Mechanic St., $223,000.
ERVING
Dean W. Spaulding II, and Marissa L. Spaulding, “fka” Marissa L. Tremblay, to Nicole Gaspar, 34 High St., $225,000.
GRANBY
Kotowicz Custom Homes LLC, to John Michael Mullen and Elizabeth Goncalves, 329 Chicopee St., $901,500.
GREENFIELD
James M. Merrigan, trustee of the Merrigan Investment Trust, Margaret S. Merrigan, Thomas T. Merrigan, Alicia A. Rawson and Michael R. Rawson to RKL Controls LLC, 393 Main St., Unit 3A Masonic Hall Condominium, $118,067.25.
Arthur N. Breuer Jr., and Christopher D. Garland to Carol L. Fischer and Harry R. Fischer Jr., 603 Bernardston Road, $475,000.
Annette M. Chamberlin to Richard Jones, 14 Locust St., $280,000.
Jeffrey T. Reynolds Jr., and Nichole R. Reynolds to Casey May, 83 Davis St., $303,000.
HAMPDEN
Jacqueline Ann Fournier, Stuart King, representative, Leon King Jr., estate, and Leon N. King, estate, to Vijay Renga and Swayam P. Nair, 199 Chapin Road, $625,000.
HOLLAND
David L. Whitman Jr., to Joseph Angelico and Judy Angelico, 33 Lake Shore Drive, $255,500.
HOLYOKE
Holyoke City to Jessica Chartier, trustee, and JAC Realty Trust, trustee of, Old Rock Valley Road, $25,000.
Joanne K. Doherty, trustee, Land Trust No. 104, trustee of, and Alfred Kagan to Dominic Kirchner II, trustee, and A-O-K Realty Trust, trustee of, 104 Lincoln St., $145,000.
Nikysha D. Harding to Michael David Jimenez Jimenez, 14-16 West Glen St., $330,000.
PAH Properties LLC, to Charlette M. Fontaine and Belinda N. Talbert, 40 Chapin St., $325,000.
Sadkowski Real Estate LLC, to Witman Residential LLC, 194-196 Lyman St., $2,200,000.
LONGMEADOW
Beachwood Builders LLC, to Caroline St. Clair, 144 Viscount Road,
$805,000.
Buzzards Bay LNM LLC, to Dustin Henry Patten and Brittany Bea Bobinger, 74 Riverview Ave., $350,000.
Enrique Salz and Evelyn Salz to Simone Enright and Ryan Coseo, 36 Warren Terrace, $450,000.
Karen M. Angelides, Karen Marie Angelides and Anastasios G. Angelides to William Rivell and Julie Rivers, 199 Tanglewood Drive, $668,000.
LUDLOW
Daniel E. Rae and David M. Rae to Louis Bonavita, 426 Center St., $230,000.
Daniil Gerasimchuk to Dong Pil Shin and Ah Me Shin, Turning Leaf Road, Lot 86, $900,000.
David G. Nichols, representative, and Thomas P. Budnick, estate, to Palmer Public Library Association Inc., 0 Chapin Street, $100.
HP Rum LLC, to Cosmic Developers LLC, 95-97 Winsor St., $3,300,000.
Ilda A. Santos to William Raleigh, 23 Walnut St., $189,000.
Joseph D. R. LaPointe to Jason Balut, 45 Glenwood St., $230,000.
PAH Properties LLC, to Chloe Reid, 16 Woodland Circle, $759,000.
Whitetail Wreks LLC, to Ana Mejia, Equinox Pass, Lot 90, $177,900.
Whitetail Wreks LLC, to Aura G. Kennedy, Balsam Hill Road, Lot 66, $177,900.
MONSON
Peter D. Rock, Kristal S. Rock and Kristal Bready to Charles Carroll, 2 Maple Lawn Drive, $159,000.
MONTAGUE
Jason Comtois to Aline Camille Gubrium, 18 Sunderland Road, $500,000.
MONTGOMERY
Jay W. Bodendorf to Darrin M. Auger, Southampton Road, Lot 2, $80,000.
Jerald Reinford, trustee, and 60 New State Road Land Trust, trustee of, to Brian Dagostino, 60 New State Road, $255,000.
NEW SALEM
JWKE Inc., to Shannon Carroll, 27 Lovers Lane, $530,000.
NORTHAMPTON
John E. Fydenkevez Jr., and Angela M. Fydenkevez, estate, to MC Pickett LLC, 604 Bridge Road, $280,000. Alexander Ron Miller and Deborah Jean Marks to Calanngra LLC, 264
Elm St., $270,000.
Jeffrey F.C. Dalzell, trustee, Virginia Earll Soybel, trustee, and Conz Street Trust to Timothy O’Reilly, 36 Conz St., $425,000.
Steven Luzi to Cole Cataneo and Naomi Goodwin Steinhagen, 23 Cahillane Terrace, $330,000.
Maryanne C. Tufts, personal representative, Roberta M. MacDonald, estate, and Roberta Mary MacDonald, estate, to Craig Nelson, 20 Norwood Ave., $438,500.
Renato P. Bartoli to David L. Boardman, trustee, Tanya T. Boardman, trustee, and David L. Boardman & Tanya T. Boardman Revocable Living Trust, 74 Barrett St., $205,000.
NORTHFIELD
Jean L. Wagener and Jerrold Wagener to Jefferson Wagener, 639 Mount Hermon Station Road, $450,000.
PALMER
B & B Realty Partners LLC, to Bailee C. Fontaine and William R. Fontaine, 3205 B Main St., $501,678.
Diane W. Miller and Robert L. Miller to Lise K. Benware-Hesse and Elizabeth A. Benware-Hesse, 1029 Baptist Hill Road, $364,900.
JM Properties LLC, to Ileana Garcia, 2B Forest Hill Drive, $248,000.
PLAINFIELD
Erik R. Pizani to Aline Marion Smiley, 127 Summit St., $85,000.
Erik R. Pizani to Michael J. Smiley, 127 Summit St., $85,000.
RUSSELL
James E. Cortis and Carol L. Cortis to Jacob Wojcik and Kathleen Wojcik, Westfield Road, Par A, $10,000.
Zack & Sons LLC, to AK Remodeling Inc., 0 Woodland Way, $105,000.
SHELBURNE
Joseph A. Poirier Sr., and Joseph A. Poirier Jr., to Rebecca Brown and Adam Duso, 188 Skinner Road, $765,000.
SOUTH HADLEY
Michael J. Hobbs and Bruce A. Skiba to Michael J. Hobbs, 32 Mary Lyon Drive, $88,750.
Miranda J. Sexton and Miranda J. Ouellette to Sophie Theroux, 36 Hollywood St., $270,000.
Magali Medina to Eric D. Nelson and Elizabeth H. Nelson, 6 Valley View Drive, $724,000.
Anthony J. Scibelli, trustee, and Revocable Indenture of Trust of Anthony J. Scibelli to Jean De Dieu
Karera and Favorite Iradukunda, 33 Upper River Road, $599,000.
SOUTHWICK
Benjamin Noga, estate, and James D. Noga, representative, to Alkame Projects LLC, 434 College Highway, $153,300.
Chester Sulborski III, and Diane M. Barnes to Siarhei Ryhal, 67 Tannery Road, $90,000.
Edward Graczewski Jr., to Christopher Johnson and Danielle J. Edgley, 383 College Highway, $200,000.
Shelbey A. Thayer, Philip I. Lemire Jr., and Martha L. Lemire to Kenneth J. Roberts Jr., and Carolyn Roberts, 4 Woodside Circle, $392,500.
SPRINGFIELD
Alexander H. Racicot and Ammelia Racicot to Vitaliy K. Oliyevskiy, 61 Clearbrook Drive, $315,000.
Allied Property Management LLC, to Stephanie Joanides and David Kelly Sr., 251 Jasper St., $263,000.
Allison M. Hanna and Brendan M. Hanna to Peter Kochanowski, 1730 Parker St., $320,000.
Amanda L. Upchurch to Abigail Morales, 153 Ellsworth Ave., $250,000.
Autumn Briggs, Autumn Ricci and Colin Briggs to Dieu Lam and Hung Quach, 39 Hartwick St., $355,000.
SMS Real Estate Investments LLC, to Cosmic Developers LLC, 50 Stevens St., $1,750,000.
Carlos A. Henriquez and Carol L. Henriquez to Laura Borges and Steven Borges, 140 Chestnut St., Unit 610, $87,000.
Carmen Jones-Greenberg and Carmen Jones to Vanessa Payamps De Payamps and Eddy A. Payamps Rodriguez, 25 East Canton Circle, $285,000.
Christian Wiernasz to Emmanuel J. Tejada, 77 Lorimer St., $442,500. Detric Watkins to Jean Marie Obedi and Nsengiyumva Jeanette, 17-19 Crown St., $345,000.
Dominic Santaniello, trustee, Lucas Giusto, trustee, Naples Home Buyers Trust, trustee of, and Naples Home Buyer Trust, trustee of, to Carrasquillo Fix Up LLC, 40 Goldenrod St., $200,000.
Edwin Rivera, Edwin P. Rivera and Hector R. Rivera to Elaida De La Rosa, 176 Florida St., $370,000.
Emmanuel D. Tejada, Emmanual D. Tejada and Yelena Pantus to Gandy Vasquez-Mora, 51-53 Sterling St., $385,000.
Emtay Inc., to Mischael J. Morency, 36-38 Dearborn St., $353,000.
Emtay Inc., to Shantal Vasquez Reynoso, 23 East Hooker St., $330,000.
Deeds
Felipe Rivera and Benigno Rivera to Juan C. Garcia-Cortez, 122-124 Kensington Ave., $57,000.
Francisco Torres to Wileyka Lara and Santana Real Estate Inc., 0 Juliet Street, $65,000.
Gemini Town Homes LLC, to Alison Gearing, 86 Central St., Unit 306, $189,000.
Gemini Town Homes LLC, to Edwin Rodriguez, 84 Central St., Unit 305, $170,000.
Gemini Town Homes LLC, to Jessica N. Wangia, 59 Morris St., Unit 205, $189,000.
Hedge Hog Industries Corp., to Abhee Singh, 40 Preston St., $319,900.
Illumination Home LLC, to Yaribel Nieves Navarro, 49 Hillmont St., $340,000.
James J. Przybla to Joseph O’Malley, 14 Lorraine St., $78,000.
James Moro and Anna Myrrah Moro to Sara Andrade, 64-66 Knollwood St., $400,000.
Jeffrey Leblanc and Jeffrey A. Leblanc to Emmanuel Lee Russell and Olivia Natalie Russell, 88 Redlands St., $315,000.
Jermel Jacobs and Selenia Jacobs to Stephen McGibbon, 62-64 Catharine St., $285,000.
Jordan A. McEwan and Rachel M. McEwan to Siahra Feliciano, 17 Glenoak Drive, $305,000.
Karl W. Rehbein, Karl Rehbein and Jason Rehbein to Kevin Johnson, 16 Crescent Hill, Unit 9, $529,000.
Kelnate Realty LLC, to Ronny Leonardo, 68-70 Massachusetts Ave., $397,000.
Kimberly L. Williams to John M. Breton, 81 Carnarvon Circle, $240,000.
Malia Homebuyers LLC, to Lindsey Roberts, 89 East St., $247,500.
Maria T. Matos to Anthony M. Santaniello, 26 Dwight Road, $137,000.
Michael H. Joseph to Stanley Home Investments LLC, 105 Overlook Drive, $230,000.
Michael J. Jaczyk and Monica L. Jaczyk to James J. Dowd II, 117 Regal St., $250,000.
Michelle Vernon to Jose Elias Paulino and Rosa Espejo, 60 Sylvan St., $275,000.
Miguel A. Suarez to House Hack Helpers LLC, 342 Wilbraham Road, $210,000.
Naples Home Buyers Trust, trustee of, Dominic Santaniello, trustee, and Lucas Giusto, trustee, to Donavan Earl Dulude, 53 Champlain Ave., $175,000.
NRES LLC, to Gloria Yanifel Sanchez, 42 Fenwick St., $305,000.
Paul H. Francisco to Toyin Adeniyi, 92-94 Hamburg St., $295,000.
Peter J. Houser, trustee, David P. Houser, trustee, and Olmsted Realty Trust, trustee of, to Yuderka Santana and Yuderka A. Fernandez, 230-232 College St., $380,000.
Phyllis Sharon, representative, Sandra B. Clark, estate, and Sandra Ann Clark, estate, to Charlene Coelho, 392 Parker St., $385,500.
Richton & Wynne LLC, to Nitza Denisse
Ortiz Borges, 197 Pheland St., $280,000.
Robert A. Desautels and Gina A. Desautels to Geecaa Investments LLC, 32 Marsden St., $320,000.
Round Two LLC, to Luis D. Lopez Santos, 171 King St., $310,000.
Ryan A. Hess and Jillian Hess to Anthony Diaz and Karen Diaz, 70 Hartwick St., $490,000.
Springfield City to Masjid Al-Tawheed, West Side Oak Street, $200.
Susan Lam to Grace Liz Acosta, 144 Lang St., $260,000.
Tavernier Investments LLC, to Dayairis Mejia, 38-40 Longhill St., $557,000.
Tony Visone, trustee, and 128 Mill St. Realty Trust, trustee of, to 128 Mill LLC, 128 Mill St., $800,000.
U S A Veterans Affairs to Minh Thuy Tien Nguyen and Xuan Tan Nguyen, 19 Taft St., $212,500.
Vincent C. Moretti, representative, and David Scott Moretti, estate, to Juan Crespo Acevedo, 519 Newbury St., $320,000.
Word Of Life Ministries and Word Of Life Ministries Inc., to Linc Suppliers Corp., 282 White St., $180,000.
SUNDERLAND
Laszlo M. Tikos, trustee of the Doris Tikos 2014 Trust, to Laszlo M. Tikos, trustee of the Laszlo M. Tikos 2014 Trust, 499 Hadley Road, $100.
TOLLAND
Susan Cutillo, representative, and Joseph J. Juhasz, estate, to Dianne Pothier, Owls Nest Lane, Lot On-17, $290,000.
WARE
Frederic A. Kozyra, trustee, Frederic M. Kozyra, trustee, Joseph E. Kozyra, trustee and Kozyra Doane-Walker Realty Trust to Samantha Lee Chevrette and Matthew Ryan Gromosky, Doane Road, $50,000.
Kris Johnson to Hector Hernandez, 15 Richfield Ave., $100.
Hector Hernandez to Frederick Koomson, 15 Richfield Ave., $70,000.
U.S.A. Housing & Urban Development to Nasser H. Chehimi and Ahmad Sultan, 44 South St., $161,500.
Frank J. Gervais and Dolores A. Gervais to Rebecca A. LaMadeleine, Lori B. Jones and Christopher B. Gervais, 105 Osborne Road, $100.
Jason Malek, Kelly Malek and Kelly Koomler to Sanuska Poudel-Mullarkey and Owen William Mullarkey, 36 Dunham Ave., $495,000.
Jack Boggess and Jennifer Boggess to Jennifer Boggess and Jennifer Anne Boggess, 77-79 West Main St., $100.
Ware Masonic Building Association Inc., to Trinity Episcopal Church, 80 Pleasant St., $180,000.
Charming Enterprises LLC, to Roland F. Toussaint and Mireille Carrie, 20-22 Walnut St., $320,000.
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Congamond Management LLC, to Mahmoud Hamad, Hatem Hamad and Sabah Hazaa, 40 Connecticut Ave., $480,000.
Edwin R. Colon and Maria Colon to Asia M. Higginson and Lucis Sambou, 18 Kings Highway, $343,000.
Raphael Deh-Atheba and Eliane D. Deh Atheba to Nathaniel James, 36-38 West School St., $335,000.
Robert J. O’Brien, trustee, Arlene J. O’Brien, trustee, and O’Brien Family Trust, trustee of, to Samantha Whelihan and Randy Solano, 274 Lancaster Ave., $365,000.
Ronald J. Howley to Shi Hong Wu, 19 Talcott Ave., $233,800.
Timothy J. Gonzalez to Tomly Yau, 42 Fabyan St., $254,900.
West Co. Investments LLC, to CGS Realty LLC, 80 Brush Hill Ave., Unit 56, $167,000.
WESTFIELD
CHK Realty Partnership and Dennis Kubeck to MPS Monarch RE LLC, 24 Elise St., $1,000,000.
Donna J. Hoynoski to PAH Properties LLC, 12 Franklin Ave., $275,000.
Donna J. Prendergast, representative, Judith Mary Sheman, estate, Judith M. Sherman, estate, and Judith Mary Sherman, estate, to Katie Spaulding, 56 Lewis Road, $79,000.
Global Mill Street LLC, to 89 South Maple Street LLC, 72 Mill St., $555,000.
Leonard C. Phelon to Maureen A. Freniere and Andrew J. Freniere, 0 Prospect Street Extn., $100,000.
Miles Stern and Melissa Stern to Phong H. Nguyen and Belqis A. Mejia Nguyen, 3 Allen Ave., $372,500.
Richard E. Bach, representative, Glenn S. Bach, estate, Bonnie M. Michelman and Colleen M. Bach to Ievgenii Gusiev, 360 Falley Drive, $295,000.
Robert J. Marco and Libia G. Marco to Artsem Ivanou and Ilya Ivanou, 30 Lozier Ave., $357,000.
Samantha W. Bouthillette, Samantha L. Whalen and Alex G. Bouthillette to Liam Holohan, 9 Brenda Drive, $390,000.
Sandra C. Masek to Rodrigo Aguirre and Nancy Rios, 98 Ely St., Unit 98, $314,500.
Timothy B. Wengert and Donna Marie Wengert to William Riley and Cynthia Riley, 33 Briarcliff Drive, $419,900.
Wicked Deals LLC, to Extremely Clean (2) LLC, 15 Bates St., $215,000.
William A. Baines, representative, and Gerald E. Baines, estate, to Christine A. O’Connell, Chris A. Rowell Jr., and Katlyn V. Rowell, 12 Hayre St., $266,000.
WILBRAHAM
2301 Boston Road LLC, to John W. Czapienski and Elaine C. Czapienski, 39 Cherry Drive, $465,000.
AC Homebuilding LLC, to Michael M, Cuccovia and Gail D. Cuccovia, 71 Sandalwood
Drive, $579,900.
Catherine G. Jurgens to Roger L. Chapdelaine Jr., Terri Chapdelaine, Hunter Chapdelaine and Brittany M. Thomas, 10V Federal Lane, $102,000.
Elizabeth Anne Alicea-Torres, Elizabeth Anne Alicea Torres, Christina Stavroula Kuhn and Christina Starla Kuhn to Colleen Bach, 2205 Boston Road, Unit E44, $236,500.
Joanne Hetherington to Araya Property LLC, 23 Briar Cliff Drive, $1,001,000.
Mark Chapin and Jennifer Chapin to Joanne Hetherington, 1335 Tinkham Road, $612,000.
WILLIAMSBURG
Richard J. LaMagdelaine, estate, Corina Barrett, personal representative, and Jeffrey Barrett, personal representative, to Corina Barrett and Jeffrey Barrett, 13 Fairfield Ave., $100.
Nancy I. Ferguson to Jillian Gadreault, 16 Hemenway Road, $250,000.
Carrie A. Laird to Luke Ratcliffe, 17 Mountain St., $235,000.
WORTHINGTON
Bethany F. Corbett to Carmen E. Kaechler, 79 River Road, $645,000.
Rachel H. Flichtbeil to Sarah Ivone Antunes Blaser, 8 Ring Road, $215,000.
Does my garbage disposal ever need to
be cleaned?
By Jeanne Huber
The Washington Post
Q.Do I need to clean my garbage disposal and, if so, what’s the best way to do it?
A. Given that it’s called a garbage disposal, you might think that this appliance is likely to reek if it’s not cleaned frequently.
But a garbage disposal is not like a garbage can. If you use it properly, a disposal is generally remarkably self-cleaning.
Manuals for popular models — including those from InSinkErator, Moen, and Moen-related companies Whirlaway and Waste King — don’t say to clean daily or weekly or even monthly. Instead, Moen just says, “The garbage disposal is self-cleaning and scours its internal parts with each use.” InSinkErator suggests cleaning if off-putting smells develop.
The exception, according to both Moen and InSinkErator, is the splash guard. Also known as a sink baffle, this is the rubberlike piece that fits in the drain and helps keep food waste from being spit back at you while the machine is running. It also helps muffle sound.
Splash guards do get grimy, and unlike disposal interiors, they are highly visible and could come in contact with food or dishes you want clean. So they definitely need to be cleaned. In some models, the splash guard just lifts out so you can wash it with a toothbrush in warm, soapy water in the sink. Some splash guards can even go into a dishwasher. But the splash guard on other models can be detached for cleaning only if you remove the disposal from the sink.
Although that’s not terribly complicated, getting everything back in place can be tricky, especially if you don’t have a helper to support the machine while you are trying to tighten the bolts or screws that hold it in place. To simplify things, try cleaning the top of the splash guard with a brush or cloth and then reaching through the rubber flanges with an old toothbrush to clean the underside. Resort to taking out the disposal to clean the splash guard more thoroughly only if odors persist.
Beyond the splash guard, a disposal can sometimes develop unpleasant smells because people run it with an eye toward minimizing how much water they use or how often they turn it on. Some foods can start smelling in a day or two, especially in a warm room.
Leaving food remnants to rot, even out of sight, is never a good idea, so it makes sense to switch on the disposal at least once a day if you’ve put any food down the drain. Use cold water, especially if food is greasy, because hot water could liquefy fat that you want to send down the drain in a solid form, rather than as melted fat that could congeal when it reaches cold pipes, plugging them. With the water running, switch on the machine, then add the food gradually.
Once the machine stops shredding food, a stage that’s clear from the change in sound, leave the water on so all the ground-up food gets rinsed away. InSinkErator recommends leaving the water on for “a few seconds.” Moen says 15 seconds. (Most kitchen faucets are now set to a maximum flow rate of 2.2 gallons per minute, so leaving the water running that long would use
If you use it properly, a disposal is generally remarkably self-cleaning. (ADOBE STOCK IMAGE)
Splash guards do get grimy, and unlike disposal interiors, they are highly visible and could come in contact with food or dishes you want clean. So they definitely need to be cleaned.
a little over 2 quarts, if the tap is open all the way.)
InSinkErator recommends periodically running fruit pits, small bones and ice through the disposal to help scour the interior. Don’t worry about dulling blades — garbage disposals don’t have blades. They have impellers, or lugs, mounted on a spinning plate that continuously forces food waste against a grind ring.
If the sink starts stinking, you can’t go wrong by following advice from InSinkErator, regardless of the brand of your disposal. Place a stopper in the sink, fill the basin halfway with warm water, add a fourth of a cup of baking soda, then simultaneously remove the stopper and turn on the disposer. The baking soda should neutralize the odor and cut through any greasy food caught in the dispenser, and the rush of warm water should help rinse away food remnants. Consider adding citrus peels for the disposer to grind up; it will help create a fresh scent. Repeat the
procedure if one cleaning isn’t enough.
You’ll find advice online about putting baking soda into the drain and then rinsing it down with vinegar. Baking soda is alkaline and vinegar is acidic. Their opposite chemistries produce a violent reaction, just as in the liter bottle rockets you might have made as a child. But there’s no need for this in a disposal, and some plumbers worry that the added pressure could actually cause leaks in old plumbing.
And if your disposal is clogged, baking soda and vinegar won’t help. That’s because with most clogs, the culprit is coins, screws, bottle caps, plastic wrap or other things that people accidentally let slip down drains. If one of these items gets stuck, it can keep the parts that shred food from turning, and that in turn can lead to foul smells. Instructions for clearing clogs vary by model.
Many disposals come with a little wrench about four
inches long with a bend near each end. One end functions like a handle; the other, like a one-fourth-inch Allen wrench (and you can use an Allen wrench if you don’t have the wrench made for unclogging a disposal). Fit it into the center hole on the bottom of the dispenser and work the wrench back and forth to loosen the clog. When you can make one full revolution, reach into the top of the dispenser, through the drain, with needle-nose pliers or long-handle tongs and remove whatever had been stuck. Don’t reach in with your hands. If there is no center hole for an Allen wrench at the bottom of your disposal, reach into the disposal from the top with the handles of one or two wooden spoons. Work them back and forth until you can get the spinning plate to turn. Then use tongs or pliers to remove what caused the clog. Or use Moen’s Garbage Disposal Unjamming Wrench ($19.08 at Home Depot), which works from the top.
After you remove the clog, if the disposal won’t turn on, you might need to press the reset button (it’s usually red) on the bottom of the unit. Turn on the water before you switch on the disposal.
PUBLIC AUCTION
PUBLIC AUCTION
PUBLIC AUCTION
info@towneauction.com / 781.790.7870 www.towneauction.com
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 03, 2025
2 PM 100 Chestnut St, Hatfield, MA FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 07, 2025
2 PM 167 Daniels Ave, Pittsfield, MA Terms of Sale: Deposit by bank check required to register to bid at time of sale. Visit: currentauctions.towneauction.com or call. Balance to be paid 30 days from sale date. Other terms announced at sale. Auctioneer makes no representations to the accuracy of the information contained herein. NO CASH - S Hill - MA Lic. AU 3381
