The last time a president or vice presidential candidate came to Western Mass. was more than a decade ago. Now, supporters are getting ready to roll out the red carpet with hopes that there will be many future visits to the Pioneer Valley.

"We're really thrilled that the Senator is coming. I can't remember the last time a presidential or vice presidential candidate came to Western Massachusetts," said Tom Lesser, an attorney from Northampton and a member of the New England Steering Committee of Obama for America.

He is probably not alone with that thought. When Senator Biden makes his way to Holyoke, not only will it be during his first campaign trip to New England, but it is the first candidate seen in the Pioneer Valley since President Bill Clinton in 1996, when he held a rally in Springfield's Court Square two days before the election. Local political leaders explain why the campaign scene in Western Mass. has stagnated.

"Because Massachusetts is primarily a 'blue state', and because of the Electoral College, there's usually not a big reason for any of the national party candidates to make an appearance this close to an election in Massachusetts, let alone Western Mass.," said Chicopee Mayor Michael Bissonnette, who plans to attend the Biden fundraiser Wednesday evening.

And because of that issue, one question on many minds is just how did the Western Mass Democratic faithful win over the campaign to get a visit from Biden?

"We've raised a tremendous amount of money in Western Mass., and that got the attention of the people in Boston, and so they're rewarding us with this event. It's up to us to show that we can come out and support a candidate like this," Lesser said.

While Senator Biden campaigned Tuesday afternoon in Ohio, back in Holyoke, preparations were underway at the Log Cabin for approximately 300 expected guests. The cost to attend the reception is $500. Dinner and a photo with Biden will cost $2,300.

"We've been in business for 13 years, and this is the highest dignitary that we've had here in our history. It's kind of cool," said Peter Rosskothen, co-owner and president of the Log Cabin Restaurant. He added he was busy working with Secret Service details and campaign managers in preparation for Wednesday's event.

Sen. Biden is expected to arrive at the Log Cabin on Easthampton Road at 5:30 p.m. after spending the day campaigning in New Hampshire.