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5 years later: Scars remain in Springfield in the aftermath of 2011 tornado and rebuild efforts continue

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The city of Springfield still shows some of the scars of the 2011 tornado ranging from the still unresolved rebuild of the Hill Homes housing complex of Old Hill to the long-awaited construction of a new regional high school on the vacant grounds of Cathedral High School.

SPRINGFIELD — Five years later, the city of Springfield still shows some of the scars of the tornado of 2011, ranging from the still-unresolved fate of the Hill Homes housing complex in Old Hill to the still-vacant grounds of Cathedral High School in East Forest Park.

While many homeowners who were insured were able to rebuild their homes or make full repairs that improved the quality of housing, not all news was rosy, said Geraldine McCafferty, the city's director of housing.

"At the same time, there are definitely lingering housing problems," MCafferty said. "Rental neighborhoods were hit particularly hard and recovery has been more difficult there. Landlords have less investment in immediately repairing and a number have walked away."

Other reminders of the tornado include the loss of the South End Community Center and the destruction of thousands of shade trees as a result of the tornado and an ice storm in late October of 2011. But the city has fought back with plans to build a new community center in the South End and the planting of more than 4,000 replacement trees, and counting through public and private funds, officials said.

The South End Community Center has operated at temporary locations since the tornado, but construction of a new center is slated to begin soon at Emerson Wight Park, officials said.

In East Forest Park area, there has been a tremendous recovery in new homes, officials said, but Cathedral High School in that neighborhood remains just open land surrounded by fencing following heavy damage from the tornado, and subsequent demolition.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield is preparing to build a new, smaller Pope Francis High School in its place.

Regarding the loss of housing in Springfield, the Hill Homes housing complex has "really struggled" in the aftermath of the tornado and legal issues, McCafferty said.

Hill Homes is a 90-unit, multi-family housing development on two parcels on Hickory and Hancock streets, owned by the Hill Homes Housing Cooperative, on behalf of the residents. The buildings on Hickory Street in Old Hill were struck by the tornado, with 26 of the 39 units condemned by the city due to severe damage, officials said.

Since that time, some of the buildings on Hickory Street were demolished by court order, and there has been no resolution to the future of that complex, officials said. There were disagreements between residents and the cooperative's board of directors if the property should be redeveloped, or if that site should be sold, and the development rebuilt at some alternate site, officials said.

There were also disputes and delays over insurance, residents said.

The experience since the tornado "was horrible," said Rhonda Sherrill, whose home was destroyed on Hickory Street. She moved to one of the other undamaged units. It was helped by the residents paying off a mortgage to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development last July, she said.

"The future of Hill Homes is we are finally looking at stabilizing, finally being in position to decide how we are going to redevelop to replace the 26 unites," Sherrill said. "It was very devastating and unsettling not to be assured of your housing."

The tornado did not just take housing and possessions but "makes you realize that your whole life can be turned outside down in a split second," Sherrill said.

On Hickory Street, three buildings remain totaling 13 units. An additional 51 units on Hancock Street were not struck by the tornado.

Five of the residents filed suit in Superior Court a year ago against the board of directors of the Hill Homes Housing Cooperative, saying the board failed to property represent them in the aftermath of the tornado. That suit remains unresolved.

Another housing development that has been unresolved are eight, two-bedroom apartments owned by the Springfield Housing Authority that were lost in the 2011 tornado at 425 Central St., in the Maple High-Six Corners area.

While tenants were relocated -- first to a hotel and then to other public housing -- the building is gone and the lot remains vacant five years later. The housing authority has filed repeated appeals with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for about $1 million in disaster funds, still under appeal.

The South End Community Center was displaced when its long-term site - the former state armory building - was struck and severely damaged by the tornado. The property was purchased by MGM Springfield, with the front of the building saved to become part of the casino design, but the community center was left waiting for a new site to be built.

The city will soon start construction of the new community center, with federal disaster aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, with the new site owned by the city and leased to the center.


Veterans visit Chapin Street School in Ludlow in advance of Memorial Day

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Students learned that the poppy is worn to honor the soldiers who died. The poppy flowers grew in Flanders Field and other fields where the soldiers were buried.

LUDLOW - In advance of Memorial Day, Ludlow veterans visited Chapin Street School to explain the history and importance of the federal holiday to students in each 2nd and 3rd grade classroom.

Students and staff welcomed James Jyz, United States Air Force; Eric Segundo, Director of Ludlow Veterans Services and Christine Bassett, Retired United States Air Force & Commander of the Ludlow VFW Post 3236.

"We welcome the opportunity to visit schools because it is important to bring an awareness of the meaning of Memorial Day at a young age so children understand the day is about honoring those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom," said Segundo.

During their visit the veterans not only talked about the meaning of Memorial Day, but also shared the story of the Veterans of Foreign Wars "Buddy" Poppy. Students were excited when the veterans gave each of them their very own red silk poppy, and a placemat that tells the story of Flander's Field.
"Today we learned that Memorial Day is a day to remember people who were in the service and died," said 3rd grader Adrian Martins.

Carrie Joseph, a 3rd grade teacher at Chapin Street School, and the wife of a retired a U.S. Army National Guard member, also graciously donated four copies of the book, The Poppy Lady, written by Barbara Elizabeth Walsh, to Chapin Street School so that each classroom teacher could read the book to their students, as a follow-up activity to the visit.
As 3rd grader Sophia Scyocurka explained, "The red poppy flower is worn in honor of the soldiers that died. The poppy flowers grew in a cemetery where soldiers were buried. The Poppy Lady asked people to wear poppies on their shirts to remember the soldiers who died."

Before leaving each classroom, Segundo reminded the students about the yearly Memorial Day Parade that, this year, is scheduled for May 30th. Third grader Caitlyn Day said this will be her 4th year walking in the parade with Girl Scout Troop #12814 "and this year I'll wear the red poppy I was given today to remind me of the soldiers that died."

Tickets available for the Wolfe Tones concert at John Boyle O'Reilly Club

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A summer concert featuring the Wolfe Tones is scheduled June 3, at the John Boyle O'Reilly Club in Springfield.

The Wolfe Tones publicity shotThe Irish folk group, The Wolfe Tones, is scheduled to perform an outdoor concert at the John Boyle O'Reilly Club in Springfield on June 3. . 

SPRINGFIELD -- Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate for an outdoor concert featuring the Wolfe Tones on Friday, June 3, at the John Boyle O'Reilly Club.

The tickets are $25, and the gates open at 7 p.m. The concert begins at 8:30 p.m. under the tent.

For tickets, call Matt Keating at 413-530-0780, or call the club at 413-788-8603.

Chicopee Police warning residents of scam alleging to collect money for slain police officer

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Auburn Police Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. was killed in a routine traffic stop last week.

CHICOPEE - Police are notifying residents about a new telephone scam that claims to be collecting money for the family of slain Auburn Police Officer Ronald Tarentino, Jr.

"I have gotten a couple of messages about a caller raising money for Officer Tarentino," Michael Wilk, public information officer for Chicopee Police said. "This is a scam. Do not give any info. and hang up."

The caller number is 413-239-2393 and is being made from Northfield, he said.

Tarentino, 42, was killed on May 22 during a traffic stop. The suspect in his killing, Jorge Zambrano, was killed in a shootout with police later that day.

Tarentino leaves a wife and three children. His funeral was held on Friday.

The Auburn Police Department has set up a legitimate memorial fund to benefit the wife and children of Tarentino. Donations can be made to Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. Memorial Fund, C/O Savers Bank, 38 Auburn St. ,Auburn, MA 01501.

East Longmeadow to hold Memorial Day Parade

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East Longmeadow's annual Memorial Day Parade will step off Monday at 10:50 a.m.

EAST LONGMEADOW — East Longmeadow's annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday will include marching band music, military honors and a post-parade ceremony featuring speeches by various local and state politicians.

Participants will begin to assemble at East Longmeadow High School's parking lot at 10:30 a.m., and the parade is scheduled to step off at 10:50 a.m., according to the town.

"The units will proceed to the flagpole area by the American Legion Post 293 and the Italian American Veterans Post 64 will take place," a Town Hall statement says.

Following the parade, an East Longmeadow High School student will lead the group in a reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance, after which Sergeant at Arms Ed Brown will conduct military honors with volleys of rifle fire by a firing detail while the East Longmeadow High School marching band plays Taps.

After the parade, a ceremony will be held in East Longmeadow High School's auditorium. The high school band will play the Star Spangled Banner before speakers including Board of Selectman Chairman Paul Federici, State Representatives Brian Ashe and Angelo Puppolo, and State Senator Eric Lessor address the crowd.

Closing remarks will be made by Thomas O'Connor, the commander of American Legion Post 293.

10 ducklings saved from under Canton waterfall

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Firefighters, police officers and animal control officers from Canton rescued 10 ducklings from under a waterfall in Canton over the weekend after they had been separated from their mother.

CANTON -- Firefighters, police officers and animal control officers from Canton rescued 10 ducklings from under a waterfall in Canton over the weekend after they had been separated from their mother.

Canton Police Officer Rob Quirk, the department's media relations officer, posted videos on Twitter Saturday night showing the rescue at Canton Center.



The ducklings were later reunited with their mother.


Route 9 in Hadley to close for Memorial Parade

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Detours will be in place to divert traffic around the parade.

HADLEY - A portion of Route 9 will be closed Sunday afternoon because of the annual Memorial Day parade.

The street will be closed from about 1:50 p.m. to 3 p.m., between East Street to West Street, Hadley Police said.

The parade will begin at the American Legion and end at the West Street common. Hadley traditionally holds its Memorial Day Parade a day early on Sunday.

Detours will be in place to divert traffic around the parade.

Pittsfield Police asking for help to identify man who pulled gun on cab driver

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The robbery was not successful and no one was injured, Police said.

PITTSFIELD - Police are trying to identify a man who pulled a gun on a cab driver and attempted to rob her over the weekend.

The man was sitting in the back seat of the cab, put on a mask and pulled out a gun. Pittsfield Police said they are not certain if the gun was real.

The suspect was last seen in the area of the New Amsterdam Apartments on Bradford Street. He is considered armed and dangerous so people should not approach him, police said.

No one was injured and the robbery was not successful, Pittsfield Police said.

Anyone who can identify the man caught on a video camera in the cab or has any information about the attempted robbery is asked to phone Officer Brett Henault, who is investigating the case, at 413-448-9700 ext. 431; leave a private message on the Pittsfield Police Department Facebook page or text a tip anonymously by typing in TIP411, Text "PITTIP" and then the message.


Auburn Police Officer laid to rest after being killed in line of duty: What people were Tweeting about Ronald Tarentino Jr.

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The suspect in his killing later died in a shootout with police.

AUBURN - Thousands gathered in support of the family and friends of Auburn Police Officer Ronald Tarentino Jr. during his funeral Friday.

It has been a long week for the central Massachusetts communities of Auburn and Leicester following the death of the 42-year-old father of three.

Tarentino was shot and killed during a routine traffic stop at around 12:30 a.m. Sunday. The suspect in his killing, Jorge Zambrano, was tracked down and killed in a shootout with police later that day.

A Massachusetts State Police trooper, who was shot in the shoulder during the shootout is recovering from his injuries and was released from the hospital Thursday. His name has not been released.

Tarentino lived in Leicester and had served as a police officer there for seven years before transferring to the Auburn Police Department.

Before the funeral in Charlton, Tricia Tarentino, widow of the police officer, expressed her thanks to the law enforcement officers and the communities that have rallied around her and her family since her husband died in the line of duty.

Here are some of the things people were Tweeting following the death of the police officer.

Chicopee adds seven recruits to Fire Department

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The seven men were sworn in this week and will now head to the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Stow for training.

CHICOPEE - Seven new Fire Department recruits were sworn in this week and will now be attending the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Stow before starting work.

The recruits are Norman Colon, Joseph Berge, Joshua Clegg, John Jebb IV, John James, Matthew Turgeon and Jeffrey Dias, said Mary Moge, chief of staff for the mayor's office.

Mayor Richard J. Kos appointed the seven new recruits on May 25 following interviews of the candidates. Acting Fire Chief Dean Desmarais was also instrumental in interviewing and selecting the candidates.

The recruits were officially sworn in by City Clerk Keith W. Rattell, Moge said.

Adding the seven firefighters is part of an effort to beef up the Fire Department and fill vacancies created mostly because of retirements.

In 2015, Kos hired a dozen firefighters and there have also been a number of promotions within the department.

Agawam, South Hadley cancel Memorial Day parades

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The National Weather service is calling for showers and some possibility of heavy rain most of the day on Monday.

Several communities have canceled Memorial Day Parades scheduled for Monday because of rain.

The National Weather Service is calling for showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 4 p.m. on Monday with the possibility of heavy rain, especially in the morning. The high temperature will be 76.

The Agawam parade, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. has been canceled. Earlier ceremonies to lay wreaths on monuments will still continue. They begin at 7 a.m. at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge on Bridge Street, with the West Springfield Veterans' Council. Ceremonies follow at 7:25 a.m. at American Legion Post #185; 7:40 a.m. at Springfield Street Cemetery; 8 a.m. at Granger School; 8:15 a.m. at South Westfield Street Cemetery; and 8:30 a.m. at Agawam Center Cemetery.

The South Hadley parade has been canceled but there will be a ceremony at 11 a.m. in the South Hadley High School Auditorium. Short memorial ceremonies scheduled prior to the parade will continue. They will be held at: 7 a.m. at Canal Park; 7:15 a.m. Everson Park; 8 a.m. Notre Dame Cemetery; 9 a.m. Evergreen Cemetery; 9:30 a.m. the Commons; 9:45 am St. Rose Cemetery and 10:15 am at Village Cemetery.

Eversource's Northern Pass transmission project hits regulatory snag

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The 192-mile powerline would carry Hydro-Québec electricity into New England.

New Hampshire's utility siting regulators have extended their deadline for action on the Northern Pass transmission project to Sept. 30, 2017, imposing a nine-month delay on plans for the $1.6 billion, 192-mile power line.

Eversource Energy had expected to obtain state and federal permits by the end of 2016 and begin construction in January. The new schedule pushes projected completion into 2020 instead of May 2019, as previously planned.

Financial analysts called the delay a "significant setback" for Eversource, a holding company with three segments: electric transmission, electric distribution, and natural gas distribution in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Eversource has partnered with Hydro-Quebec in the project, which would import 1,090 megawatts of hydropower to the New England power grid. The line would begin at the Canadian border and end in Deerfield, New Hampshire, while passing through the White Mountain National Forest, where Eversource has proposed to bury 60 miles of the infrastructure.

Following Thursday's vote by members of the New Hampshire Site Evaluation Committee, an Eversource spokesman said "we are evaluating our options for seeking reconsideration," and that the SEC vote would "only delay the realization of the substantial benefits of this project in New Hampshire and throughout New England."

The SEC agreed more time is needed to evaluate the proposal, according to the New Hampshire Union Leader. The Society for the Preservation of New Hampshire Forests, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and others had petitioned the committee, saying more time was needed to review extensive environmental information.

Eversource says Northern Pass would provide clean, renewable energy, reduce electricity rates, and boost the New Hampshire economy through a $200 million dedicated fund. The company estimates $3.8 billion in economic stimulus through its Forward NH plan.

Opposition has come from two sides normally at odds -- the environmental community and a trade group representing power plants in New England.

The New England Power Generators Association says the Northern Pass could interfere with competitive electricity markets and create a "carve-out" for Hydro-Quebec and Eversource, paid for by Massachusetts utility customers.

"There is the potential here for a sweetheart deal" with Hydro-Quebec, NEPGA president Dan Dolan told the Montreal-based Globe and Mail. Hydro-Quebec spokesman Gary Sutherland countered that it is "simply false" Massachusetts would be "subsidizing" the utility, saying it competes fairly in energy markets.

Foes including the Appalachian Mountain Club say the project threatens to ruin the state's scenic beauty and would disturb wildlife habitat and precious water resources. The Conservation Law Foundation maintains that Northern Pass would undermine the development of distributed renewables, and that its carbon footprint is actually large. Opponents say the project's economic benefits are overstated.

Meanwhile, Hydro-Quebec and Eversource have been banking on the passage of an energy bill in Massachusetts that would make electric companies buy hydropower.

Massachusetts House releases energy bill
Last Monday the Massachusetts House released its long-awaited energy bill, and it would require the state's utilities to solicit long-term contracts for 1,200 megawatts each of offshore wind and hydropower. The bids would have to be "reasonable and cost-effective" and could be solicited with other New England states. The Legislature has until the end of the July to act on the measure.

The bill is intended to address the state's power needs as nuclear reactors and coal- and oil-fired plants shut down, and as the state faces pressure to meet its 2020 target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25 per cent from 1990 levels.

The hydropower requirement in the energy bill would be contingent upon the completion of a major transmission line. The Northern Pass is one of several proposed transmission projects in the Northeast.

In addition to state permits, the Northern Pass needs approval from the U.S. Department of Energy and a certificate under the federal Clean Water Act.

Springfield Mayor calling for churches to chime bells, residents to reflect on 5th tornado anniversary

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The tornado traveled 37 miles from Westfield to Charlton.

SPRINGFIELD - Mayor Domenic J. Sarno is calling for all religious organizations to chime their bells together at 4:38 p.m. on Wednesday to mark the fifth anniversary of the tornado.

He is also asking for all residents and business to take a moment and pause and reflect on the anniversary.

The EF-3 tornado traveled 37 miles from Westfield to Charlton, killed three, injured countless others and damaged or destroyed hundreds of buildings.

In Springfield the tornado left a 6.2 mile long scar through a variety of neighborhoods, starting from the South End and downtown and then snaking through the Maple High-Six Corners area and continuing through sections of the Old Hill, Upper Hill, Forest Park, East Forest Park and Sixteen Acres neighborhoods.

It damaged nearly 900 homes and apartment buildings in Springfield, at least three schools, numerous business properties, roads and sidewalks, parkland and thousands of trees. The damage to public property alone was estimated at $103.5 million.

"I believe it would be a fitting tribute to pause and reflect on our ability to join together and to work so diligently on making our city whole again," Sarno said in a letter sent to a wide variety of religious organizations in the city.

For those who cannot ring bells, he asked congregations to gather in prayer and reflection.

"The goal is to reflect on how far we have come in the past four years," he said. "To be where we are today, with over $2.7 billion in economic development projects underway, is a testament to the patience and fortitude the City of Springfield has exhibited over the past three years to come back stronger and more determined to forge a brighter future."

Gorilla killed after grabbing, dragging 4-year-old boy who fell into Cincinnati Zoo enclosure

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Panicked zoo visitors watched helplessly and shouted, "Stay calm!" while one woman yelled, "Mommy loves you!" as a 400-pound-plus gorilla loomed over a 4-year-old boy who had fallen into a shallow moat at the Cincinnati Zoo. Watch video

CINCINNATI -- Panicked zoo visitors watched helplessly and shouted, "Stay calm!" while one woman yelled, "Mommy loves you!" as a 400-pound-plus gorilla loomed over a 4-year-old boy who had fallen into a shallow moat at the Cincinnati Zoo.

The boy sat still in the water, looking up at the gorilla as the animal touched the child's hand and back. At one point, it looked as though the gorilla helped the youngster stand up.

Two witnesses said they thought the gorilla was trying to protect the boy at first before getting spooked by the screams of onlookers. The animal then picked the child up out of the moat and dragged him to another spot inside the exhibit, zoo officials said.

Fearing for the boy's life, the zoo's dangerous-animal response team shot and killed the 17-year-old ape, named Harambe.

The child, whose name was not released, was released from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center on Saturday night, hours after the fall.

His family said in a statement Sunday that the boy was home and doing fine.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks for the quick action by the Cincinnati Zoo staff. We know that this was a very difficult decision for them, and that they are grieving the loss of their gorilla," the family said.

Zoo Director Thane Maynard said the gorilla didn't appear to be attacking the child but was "an extremely strong" animal in an agitated situation. He said tranquilizing the gorilla wouldn't have knocked it out immediately, leaving the boy in danger.

"They made a tough choice and they made the right choice because they saved that little boy's life," Maynard said.

Zoo officials said the 4-year-old climbed through a barrier at the Gorilla World exhibit and dropped 15 feet into the moat Saturday afternoon. He was in there for about 10 minutes. Two female gorillas also were in the enclosure.

The two females complied with calls from zoo staff to leave the exhibit, but Harambe stayed, Maynard said.

Witness Kim O'Connor said she heard the boy say he wanted to get in the water with the gorillas. She said the boy's mother was with several other young children.

"The mother's like, 'No, you're not. No, you're not,'" O'Connor told WLWT-TV.

O'Connor shared video she and her family recorded of the boy and Harambe. The two appear in a corner of the exhibit while visitors yell, "Somebody call the zoo!" and "Mommy's right here!" The station did not air portions of the video showing the gorilla dragging the boy.

Another woman said that just before the boy fell, she saw him in bushes beyond a fence around the exhibit.

"I tried to grab for him. I started yelling at him to come back," Brittany Nicely told The Cincinnati Enquirer. "Everybody started screaming and going crazy. It happened so fast."

Zoo staff cleared the area and visitors heard gunfire a few minutes later. Firefighters then rushed into the enclosure and picked up the boy.

Lt. Steve Saunders, a Cincinnati police spokesman, said there are no plans to charge the parents.

Animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals said the zoo should have had a second barrier around the exhibit.

"Even under the 'best' circumstances, captivity is never acceptable for gorillas or other primates, and in cases like this, it's even deadly," PETA said.

The exhibit opened nearly 40 years ago, and this was the first breach, the zoo said.

Maynard called the killing a tragic death of a critically endangered species and a huge loss for the zoo and the gorilla population worldwide. The gorilla came to Cincinnati in 2015 from the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas.

Visitors left flowers at a gorilla statue Sunday. Gorilla World remained closed, but the rest of the zoo was open.

One father said he was shocked that the boy was able to get past the fence and bushes that surround the exhibit. He expects the zoo will take a close at it.

"They probably thought the moat and the fence was good enough," said Alex Salcedo. "Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like it was if a 4-year-old can get through."

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Associated Press writer John Minchillo wrote this report. Associated Press writers Dan Sewell and John Seewer in Cincinnati contributed to this report.

Photos: Paradise City Arts Festival in Northampton

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The Paradise City Arts Festival in Northampton, Massachusetts continued on Sunday, May 29, 2016 and will conclude on Monday at 4 p.m.

NORTHAMPTON - The Paradise City Arts Festival continued on Sunday and will conclude on Monday, May 30, 2016 at 4 p.m.

The event, held twice a year at the Three County fairgrounds, features artwork from artists from across the United States. The festival also features live music and food from local restaurants. The Paradise City Arts Festival was founded in 1995 and produces award-winning shows of contemporary craft and fine arts.

Vistors to the festival can discover one-of-a-kind gifts of original works in furniture, jewelry, garden sculpture, ceramics, art glass, fashion design, painting and photography.

For more information, visit the festival's website www.festivals.paradisecityarts.com


Ludlow police: Shirley man faces drunken driving and other charges after crashing into utility pole

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The accident, which was reported early Monday, occurred on West Street near the Granby line, police said.

LUDLOW -- A Shirley man was arrested on drunken driving and other charges early Monday after he crashed into a utility pole on West Street, police said.

The accident, near the Granby line, was reported shortly before 1:30 a.m., according to a release issued by Sgt. Daniel Valadas.

Responding officers discovered the pole was sheared and held up by surrounding trees.
The suspect, who had been driving a 2002 BMW 330, was identified as 22-year-old Christopher Leaman.

He was charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, possession of open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle and a marked lanes violation.

Leaman refused medical attention and was released on bail at approximately 8 a.m. with a date to appear in Palmer District Court.

Veterans, families gather at Smith & Wesson to celebrate heroes on Memorial Day

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The rain held off Monday as residents and veterans attended the "Celebration of Heroes" Memorial Day event at Smith & Wesson on Roosevelt Avenue in Springfield.

SPRINGFIELD -- The rain held off during the third annual "Celebration of Heroes" Memorial Day ceremony at Smith & Wesson Corp., as veterans and residents gathered for music, food and family fun while paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for their country.

The free event on the spacious grounds of Smith & Wesson on Roosevelt Avenue drew hundreds of people and was preceded by a rain-soaked motorcycle ride.

Those in attendance included members of the family of Marine Gunnery Sgt. Thomas J. Sullivan, a local serviceman who was killed in the terrorist attacks on military installations in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on July 16, 2015.

Proceeds from the event benefited The Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan Scholarship Fund, the Friends of the Springfield Vet Center and the Friends of Ward 8. The event was free to the public, but there were proceeds from food and beverage sales, as well as various veteran booths, tents and a musical stage and games for the family.

Joseph Sullivan, the brother of Thomas Sullivan, said he and a few dozen "die-hards" took part in the motorcycle ride. The rain did not deter him and would not have stopped his brother either, he said, but the rain stopped before the four-hour celebration.

"It's an honor," Joseph Sullivan said of Monday's event. "It's an honor for my family. It's a good way to spend Memorial Day and remember why it's happening."

It also marked the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, being marked for a 13-year period.

Fred Bruni of Palmer, who is a Vietnam veteran, said he was proud to be part of the event to remember the fallen.

"I'm glad to see everyone supporting the veterans who gave their lives to their country so we can free," Bruni said.

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno thanked Smith & Wesson and the various corporate sponsors of the Memorial Day event.

The Sullivan family "has turned a tragedy into a positive legacy making sure that each and every one of our veterans is respected and remembered," Sarno said.

He praised the Vietnam veterans for leading the way to make sure that all veterans are honored properly after many of those from the Vietnam era returned from war "disrespected and misunderstood."

Those participating in Monday's event included the Central High School Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps, and 15-year-old Sydney Scott singing "The Star Spangled Banner."

Mark Smith, president of manufacturing services at Smith & Wesson, said the company is honored to sponsor the annual event, and knows that a large number of its employees are veterans.

The event "has a special place in our heart," Smith said.

"While nothing compares to the sacrifices of those who have given their lives for our country, we must do everything we can to preserve their memory and honor that commitment," Smith said.

Charles Laramee, who retired in January after working nearly 49 years at Smith & Wesson, said the event is special for him in multiple ways including his love for the company, and to honor those killed in action including his great nephew, the late Marine Sgt. Joshua D. Desforges, who was killed in Afghanistan in May of 2010.

"We can't do enough for veterans, said Rose Marie Laramee, Desforges' great aunt.

Photos: Celebration of Heroes Motorcycle Rally remembers Gunnery Sgt. Thomas J. Sullivan

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The rally, which consisted of an estimated 50 motorcycles, left the Smith & Wesson parking lot for a 35-mile run.

SPRINGFIELD -- A motorcycle rally to honor the late Thomas J. Sullivan, one of four Marines killed at a Chattanooga, Tennessee, naval reserve center last year, was held Monday morning.

Sullivan grew up in Springfield and concluded two tours of duty in Iraq, earning two Purple Hearts.

The rally, which consisted of an estimated 50 motorcycles, left the Smith & Wesson parking lot for a 35-mile run. The motorcycle rally was staged by the Guardian Soldiers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club and originally slated for a 50- to 60-mile run through the Quabbin Reservoir, but organizers said they would reduce the mileage due to rain.

Riders returned to the Smith & Wesson parking lot to participate in the third annual Celebration of Heroes get-together, with proceeds from food sales and donations going to the Gunnery Sgt.Thomas Sullivan Scholarship Fund, the Friends of Ward 8 and the Springfield Veterans Center. The event was free and open to the public.

Photos: Easthampton Memorial Day 'one small spark in a flame of pride that burns across our nation'

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Following the annual parade, veteran and VA staffer Anne Murray delivered remarks.

EASTHAMPTON -- A light drizzle gave way to a humid morning as Easthampton residents gathered to honor members of the military who died in the service of their country.

Marching bands, flag-decorated vehicles and community groups lined up for the annual parade and made their way down Cottage, Union and Main streets before arriving at the War Memorial at the Emily Williston Memorial Library for a ceremony.

The Easthampton High School band performed the national anthem, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mark Subocz, commander of Dalton Lavallee American Legion Post 224.

Thomas Gallivan, chaplain of the legion post, delivered an invocation. "Help us to remember the valor and devotion of our departed comrades," he said. "Not only those whose bodies consecrate our soil, but those who sleep beyond the seas, and those others whose resting place will not be known until the last day."

Gallivan introduced guest speaker Anne Murray as a veteran and someone who has been working helping veterans for 25 years.

"The servicemen we honor today came from all walks of life," said Murray. "Many of them didn't ask to leave their homes to fight on distant battlefields.... They did not go to war because they loved fighting. They were called to something bigger than themselves."

Murray stood up for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, saying it is working diligently to lower wait times and to improve satisfaction at its medical centers.

"Everyone knows the VA has taken a beating in the media," she said. "But despite the coverage you may have seen, Secretary (Robert A.) McDonald is by no means taking his eye off the ball when it comes to wait times for health care."

A Chicago-area native and Indiana University graduate, Murray was commissioned in the U.S. Air Force as a supply operations officer in 1978. Upon discharge in 1991 as first lieutenant, she started with the U.S. Veterans Administration in Illinois, and later transferred to the VA hospital in Leeds, now the Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System. She served in various capacities and is now manager of voluntary services.

"The VA is a wonderful place to work," she said. "It is a great honor to have a career where my purpose is to love and serve veterans on behalf of a grateful nation."

Murray said she is always looking for volunteer drivers willing to transport veterans to and from medical appointments. The volunteers drive government vehicles in all five central and Western Massachusetts counties. She said interested parties should contact her at the hospital.

"Our gathering in Easthampton is just one small spark in a flame of pride that burns across the nation today and every day," Murray said.

A wreath-laying ceremony followed as a bugler played taps. The high school band played "God Bless America."

Veterans and their friends, family and supporters made their way to the American Legion post at 190 Pleasant St. for a traditional frank-and-bean luncheon.

"It's an opportunity for us to get together," said James Zedonis, a World War II Army veteran who will turn 92 in August. "I was on Okinawa when the war ended. There aren't that many of us left."

Mary Serreze can be reached at mserreze@gmail.com.

Memorial Day 2016: Gov. Charlie Baker speaks of monuments and remembrance at Agawam observance

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The Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam opened in 2001 has interred approximately 9,400 veterans and their dependents.

AGAWAM -- Gov. Charlie Baker on Monday referenced Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address while marking Memorial Day at the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

"The last full measure of devotion," Baker said. "That is what we are here today to celebrate, to honor and to remember."

Baker told the crowd of several hundred gathered on the cemetery's parade ground of his home on Monument Avenue in Swampscott. The street gets its name from the row of monuments Swampscott has erected over the centuries -- markers for every war and conflict, engraved with the names of every Swampscott resident who served.

Those who gave their lives -- their last full measure of devotion -- are marked with a star, Baker said.

"If you live in town for more than a few years, you know the names," Baker said.

He described seeing families gather at the monuments, an older relative pointing out one name or another: "You can tell they are telling stories about a member of their family."

He also described seeing an older veteran play taps over the monuments at dusk each Memorial Day. "And everything stops," the governor said.

Baker also attended the Cedar Grove Cemetery Memorial Day Parade in Dorchester Center, and planned to visit the Holyoke Soldiers Home later on Monday.

The Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam covers 61 acres and opened in 2001. In that time, it has interred approximately 10,000 veterans and their dependents.

U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield, also spoke, along with State Sen. Donald F. Humason Jr., R-Westfield; State Rep. Benjamin Swan Sr., D-Springfield; State Rep. Nicholas Boldyga, R-Southwick and Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno.

Neal reminded the crowd that the United States created 1 million more veterans with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Of those, he said, 5,000 were killed and 50,000 were wounded. All need the services they were promised, he said.

"Sometimes there is a gap between the pat on the back you get when you sign up and the needs that must be addressed when you come home," Neal told the crowd.

Swan, an Army veteran, spoke of his trip last week to a Memorial Day observance conducted by and for veterans incarcerated at Massachusetts Correctional Institution in Shirley. He described how the prison group helps the veterans deal with ongoing issues in their lives.

"And we must do all we can to help them," he said. 

Eugene Murphy of Holyoke served in an Army mortar platoon in South Korea from 1960 to 1963 -- after the active fighting of the Korean War, but while tensions on the peninsula were still strong. He said a visit to the veterans cemetery is a fitting way to spend Memorial Day afternoon.

"Our brothers are here," Murphy said. "They sacrificed so much for us."

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