Ashe grew increasingly confident as the results came in Tuesday night, and was cheered by his supporters gathered at Bertucci's Brick Oven Pizzeria in Longmeadow.

"This is so exciting," Ashe said. "All the hard work has paid off. There is a long way to go, a lot of work."

The Democrats "are hungry to get back that seat," Ashe said, adding that he is confident he will win.

Walsh said she was disappointed by the outcome and voter turnout, but looks forward to continuing to serve on the City Council.

"I had a great time running," Walsh said. "We ran a very positive campaign, had good support. I can't think of anything we could have done differently. We did everything we had to do."

The 2nd Hampden District consists of Longmeadow, Hampden, Monson, half of East Longmeadow, and two precincts in the Forest Park section of Springfield.

Both candidates had family ties with top county officials. Ashe is the son of the county's Register of Deeds Donald E. Ashe, while Walsh was joined on the campaign trail by her brother, Hampden County District Attorney William M. Bennett.

Donald Ashe lives across the street from Walsh in Forest Park on Magnolia Terrace, and Brian Ashe won that precinct.

The largest vote tally was in Longmeadow where Ashe won by a vote of 1,883-718. The vote in Springfield was 208-206. "It's nice to know in your own hometown you have made an impression to get people out (to vote), Ashe said.

Ashe is a unit manager with the Hampden County Sheriff's Department. He is not related to Sheriff Michael J. Ashe.

Two years ago, Ashe ran for the state Senate seat vacated by Sen. Brian P. Lees, but was defeated in the Democratic primary by current state Sen. Gale D. Candaras, D-Wilbraham.

Ashe said he has a lot of respect for Walsh and knows she worked hard during the campaign. Growing up, he lived across the street from her, but has lived in Longmeadow the past 15 years.

A key issue is ensuring that the district gets its fair share of local aid, Ashe said.

Scibelli last night congratulated Ashe on his victory and said he looks forward to the general election. He said there are substantial differences between him and Ashe, that he will emphasize in coming weeks.

(9-15-09)
Our endorsements for primary votes
by The Republican
Monday September 15, 2008

2nd Hampden District
The decision of State Rep. Mary S. Rogeness, R-Longmeadow, to retire has sparked a lively primary contest for her district, which encompasses Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Hampden, Monson and two precincts in Springfield's Forest Park neighborhood.

Sparring for the seat are Democrats Brian M. Ashe, 45, of Longmeadow, and Kateri B. Walsh, 63, of Springfield. We strongly support Ashe over Walsh, who we have long criticized for her opposition to the state-appointed Springfield Finance Control Board. As a veteran city councilor, Walsh is tied inextricably to the city's near-bankruptcy and, thus, bears some of the responsibilities for the city's fiscal troubles.

Ashe has served on the Longmeadow Select Board for eight years and has been a member of the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority Advisory Board for eight years. We believe Ashe will be a much more effective voice for Greater Springfield.

(9-3-08)
Walsh Shrugs Off Federal Violation
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the federal agency that regulates radio and television stations, says the equal air time law requires that stations afford equal opportunities for air time to competing political candidates, according to Mark Berlin, from the Policy Division of the FCC. Berlin notes there are exceptions with regard to the air-time being a documentary, a bona fide news interview, a scheduled newscast or an on-the-spot news event, none of which apply to this situation.

"It is a fundamental aspect of fairness for all political hopefuls," Ashe said. "This is election season and it costs a lot of money to run an effective campaign to get your name out to as many residents in your district as possible. Kateri has essentially had free airtime since her name was placed on the ballot. This is the very reason the FCC created this law."

It's been clearly demonstrated that a violation exists, yet in spite of the position of the FCC, Cele Hahn's actions in a similar situation, and WHYN management's willingness to negotiate for equal radio time Kateri Walsh is in denial.

According to the Springfield Republican's report, Walsh said she does not see any political advantage as host of the radio program titled "Reporter's Roundtable," and does not believe the station has any legal requirement to give Ashe equal time. However, up until Ashe brought the matter to the FCC last week, Walsh advertised the radio program on nearly every page of her website.

"Kateri should have removed herself from her radio show effective from the date she turned her signatures in to get her name placed on the ballot, not only because it was illegal or unfair but simply because it would have showed she had the integrity to do the right thing."

(8-30-08)
Friends and Family Fun at Forest Park Neighborhood Block Party
Brian attended a block party in the Forest Park neighborhood where he grew up on Saturday. "It was nice to see my old friends and have the opportunity to meet new neighbors. I grew up on Magnolia Terrace which is part of this beautiful historical neighborhood.  I was very pleased with the overwhelming support I received.  These folks expressed that they want an honest and genuine person to represent them.  They want straightforward answers to their questions and know that's what they can expect from me."

(8-28-08)
Monson Selectboard Member Kathleen Norbut Endorses Brian Ashe

(8-23-08)
Monson Townwide Tag Sale
What a great concept!  Stop on Main Street in front of Town Hall to pick up your map showing the multitude of tag sales you can spend your Saturday perusing through.  In your tag sale packet is a sort of scavenger hunt contest.  You'll need to visit some spots on the map to gather the answers to the questions which could make you a prize winner.  This is just one way Monson town residents come together.  "I spent a few hours with Kathleen Norbut and Gerry DePace watching the enthusiastic tagsalers start their days at this well-organized event; now in its sixth year.  I also had the opportunity to speak with many folks here about their Lower Hampden Road project, letting them know that I voted in favor of keeping this project funded as a member of the Metropolitan Planning Organization. The day was perfect for getting out to meet our Monson neighbors. And yes, my wife insisted on stopping at a few tag sales!"

(6-25-2008)
Ashe Holds Fundraiser
Longmeadow Select Board member Brian M. Ashe held a fundraiser to support his candidacy for State Representative in the Second Hampden District on Wednesday, June 25th. The seat is being vacated by Assistant Minority Leader Mary Rogeness.

The event was held Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at the Longmeadow Community House in Longmeadow. "I am ready to work hard for the people in Western Massachusetts in an effort to acquire an increase in aid to the cities and towns in the 2nd Hampden District,” Ashe said.

“It is always nice to see old friends and meet new supporters. I am thrilled with the amount of support and excitement I am receiving early on in the campaign. It really makes you want to get out there and work hard. I look forward to representing the district with the same dedication to listening, communicating, and taking action on behalf of the district’s citizens as I have shown the Town of Longmeadow over the past 7 years.”  Brian is currently a three-term Selectman in the Town of Longmeadow.

(5-17-2008)
Ashe Honored to Represent the Town in Annual Long Meddowe Days Celebration

Longmeadow, MA - Brian Ashe was asked to speak on behalf of the Town’s elected officials at Sunday’s Memorial Service on the Town Green. “It was an honor to share the spotlight with keynote speaker Colonel James M. Linder, the Commander of the 439th Operations Group at Westover Air Reserve Base. We owe our lifestyles to these brave men and women who have gone before us to pave the way to freedom.” said Ashe.

The honor of pushing the “Harrison Campaign Ball” in the Longmeadow Town Parade on Saturday morning was also bestowed upon Ashe. When asked by the Longmeadow Historical Society to help man this 8-foot canvas-covered replica election ball on loan from Old Sturbridge Village, Ashe enthusiastically responded saying, “I think it would be very fitting, considering this is an election year for me.” Ashe is running for the seat of State Representative, which is being vacated by Mary Rogeness.

(4-30-2008)
Ashe Formally Announces Candidacy For State Representative Seat
Longmeadow Select Board member, Brian M. Ashe, has formally announced his candidacy for State Representative of the 2nd Hampden district, the seat being vacated by Mary Rogeness after 18 years of service. Ashe complimented Rogeness on her commitment and work ethic. “I have had the privilege of working with Mary and it would be my honor to carry on after her,” Ashe stated.

Ashe is no stranger to politics. He is currently a three-term Selectman for the Town of Longmeadow. He has attended regional Selectman meetings for the past 8 years to address issues of this district. Ashe has also served on the PVTA Advisory Board for the past 8 years. He was a member of the Metropolitan Planning Organization from 2004-2007, dealing with transportation and development issues throughout the Pioneer Valley.

“I am excited about campaigning as I enjoy meeting and helping people, that is what keeps me in politics. I want to continue to meet more people in the district and listen to their concerns and suggestions. I’ve learned that people are people and it doesn’t matter where they come from – they each have their concerns and goals.”

“People want to know who you are and find out what you are all about. If they can shake your hand and look you in the eye, then they may feel comfortable enough to vote for you.”

“As a Selectman I am aware of the many issues that the towns in this district are facing. Over the years we have received less and less state aid, which has not kept up with the rate of inflation for our cities and towns. Health care is escalating out of control. The cost to educate our children is rising every year; our roads and sidewalks need repair and replacement, yet there is less funding every year to accomplish these necessities. We are forced to do more with less, and we need help.”

Brian M. Ashe is a graduate of Cathedral High School. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and obtained his Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Westfield State College. Ashe has been employed by the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department for the past 15 years and has been a manager for the past 10 years.

Ashe and his wife Sonja, who is employed by WWLP as Art Director, have lived in Longmeadow for fifteen years and have two children, Tiernan, 10 and Kyra, 8. Ashe is very active in local sports and coach’s youth baseball and soccer. His father is Donald E. Ashe, Hampden County Register of Deeds.

Ashe Visits Hope Center and Brings a
Piece of History With Him
While recently visiting the Hungry Hill Senior Center, Brian Ashe brought a copy of a picture that was printed in the Springfield Daily News (now the Springfield Republican) in 1973. The picture displayed Brian and childhood friends Timothy Rooke and John Schoolcraft holding a banner in the heart of Hungry Hill, at the corner of Carew and Armory Streets, welcoming home Vietnam veterans.

<< Click on the photo to the left for a larger view.
 

(7-30-2006)
Puerto Rican Day Parade
Brian M. Ashe marched in the Puerto Rican Day Parade with his family, friends and supporters down Main Street through the north end of Springfield.
 

He was overwhelmed with the 90+ degree heat as well as the cheers along the route. His children handed out candy to the children along the parade route as he waived, shook hands and posed for numerous pictures. Ashe remarked, “The great thing about running for an office like this is the many different people you get to meet.” Ashe was welcomed up on stage at the end of the route where he thanked the Puerto Rican Cultural Center for having him march in the parade and congratulated them on a wonderful event.


He stated, “This is a great event for the city as it brings people to downtown Springfield. It is fun for children, families, seniors and politicians too! We need more family-friendly events in the city as we look to the future.” 

(7-6-2006)
Ashe Visits Pine Pine Senior Center in Sixteen Acres
Brian M. Ashe visited the Pine Point Senior Center Thursday in Springfield. Ashe accompanied by several members of his campaign team took his time to meet each and every one of the 40 plus seniors in attendance.

After meeting with all of the seniors, he addressed the group with a short speech. Ashe discussed his candidacy, why he is running and touched on some of the hot issues. He was questioned about his thoughts on the Control Board and the Springfield trash fee. Ashe stated that while he was not part of the leadership that brought the Control Board in he would certainly do everything in his power when elected to get Springfield back in shape so that the Control Board has no reason to stay. In his speech, Ashe focused on the importance of public safety and the key that it has in the revitalization of Springfield.

He also went on to say that he was very dissatisfied with the trash fee that had been implemented in Springfield by the Control Board. With no dialogue, public forums and a total disregard for a non-binding referendum vote, this was a slap in the face to those residents that have stayed in Springfield through thick and thin. Ashe closed by thanking everyone for sharing their time with him and asked them to remember him on September 19th as they go to the polls.

(7-4-2006)
East Longmeadow 4th of July Parade 
Brian was out in full force on Tuesday, July 4th as he marched in the parade with the Longmeadow Democratic Town Committee. The parade route was lined with folks waving to Brian, shaking his hand and hundreds of children holding his balloons.  His son Tiernan threw candy to the kids along the way, as is the long-standing tradition in the 2-mile plus stretch.  A fellow Longmeadow Democratic Town Committee member remarked he thought Brian shook nearly every hand along the parade route.  Brian loves crowds and the crowds seemed to return the sentiment in the 90 degree+ humidity. One parade goer came out to Brian to offer him a cold bottle of water as another was spraying his garden hose in the air for anyone in need of cooling off.  Brian willing accepted!  The campaign trail continues..