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Rhode Island teen Kendra Bowers identified as victim of fatal skiing accident at Sugarbush Ski Resort in Vermont

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Vermont State Police have identified the victim of the fatal skiing accident at Sugarbush Ski Resort on Saturday as 19-year-old University of Vermont student Kendra Bowers.

WARREN, Vt. — Vermont State Police have identified the victim of the fatal skiing accident at Sugarbush Ski Resort on Saturday as 19-year-old University of Vermont student Kendra Bowers.

Police say Bowers was skiing with friends and family on the Lower Rim Run trail around 10:50 a.m. Saturday when she apparently lost control near the intersection with another trail. Troopers say she went off the right side of the trail striking a sign, sustaining injuries which ultimately claimed her life.

Troopers say Bowers was attending college at UVM in Burlington, but is a native of Newport, Rhode Island. The Associated Press reported Sunday that Bowers was a sophomore in charge of public relations for the a cappella campus signing group known as “ZEST.”

Police say an autopsy with the Chief Medical Examiner’s office in Burlington in pending.




Oscar-winning actor Philip Seymour Hoffman found dead in apartment at 46

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Trained in the theater, with a versatility and discipline more common among British performers than Americans, Hoffman was a character actor who could take on any role, large or small, loathsome or sympathetic.

NEW YORK (AP) — Philip Seymour Hoffman, who won the Oscar for best actor in 2006 for his portrayal of writer Truman Capote in "Capote" and created a gallery of other vivid characters, many of them slovenly and slightly dissipated figures, was found dead Sunday in his apartment with what law enforcement officials said was a syringe in his arm. He was 46.

The two officials told The Associated Press that glassine envelopes containing what was believed to be heroin were also found with the actor.

The law enforcement officials, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to talk about the evidence at the scene, said the cause of death was believed to be a drug overdose.

Hoffman — no matinee-idol figure with his lumpy build and limp blond hair — made his career mostly as a character actor, and was one of the most prolific in the business, plying his craft with a rumpled naturalism that also made him one of the most admired performers of his generation.

The stage-trained actor was nominated for Academy Awards four times in all: for "Capote," ''The Master," ''Doubt" and "Charlie Wilson's War." He also received three Tony nominations for his work on Broadway.

Hoffman spoke candidly over the years about past struggles with drug addiction. After 23 years sober, he admitted in interviews last year to falling off the wagon and developing a heroin problem that led to a stint in rehab.

The law enforcement officials said Hoffman's body was discovered in a bathroom at his Greenwich Village apartment by a friend who made the 911 call and his assistant.

Late Sunday, a police crime-scene van was parked out front, and technicians carrying brown paper bags went in and out. Police kept a growing crowd of onlookers back. A single red daisy had been placed in front of the lobby door.

Hoffman's family called the news "tragic and sudden."

"We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Phil and appreciate the outpouring of love and support we have received from everyone," the family said in a statement.

In one of his earliest roles, he played a spoiled prep school student in "Scent of a Woman" in 1992. One of his breakthroughs came as a gay member of a porno film crew in "Boogie Nights," one of several movies directed by Paul Thomas Anderson that he would eventually appear in.

He often played comic, slightly off-kilter characters in movies like "Along Came Polly," ''The Big Lebowski" and "Almost Famous."

More recently, he was Plutarch Heavensbee in "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire" and was reprising that role in the two-part sequel, "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay," which is in the works. And in "Moneyball," he played Art Howe, the grumpy manager of the Oakland Athletics who resisted new thinking about baseball talent.

Just weeks ago, Showtime announced Hoffman would star in "Happyish," a new comedy series about a middle-aged man's pursuit of happiness.

He was nominated for the 2013 Academy Award for best supporting actor for his role in "The Master" as the charismatic leader of a religious movement. The film, partly inspired by the life of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, reunited the actor with Anderson.

He also received a 2009 best-supporting nomination for "Doubt," as a priest who comes under suspicion because of his relationship with a boy, and a best supporting actor nomination for "Charlie Wilson's War," as a CIA officer.

Born in 1967 in Fairport, N.Y., Hoffman was interested in acting from an early age, mesmerized at 12 by a local production of Arthur Miller's "All My Sons." He studied theater as a teenager with the New York State Summer School of the Arts and the Circle in the Square Theatre. He then majored in drama at New York University.

In his Oscar acceptance speech for "Capote," he thanked his mother for raising him and and his three siblings alone, and for taking him to his first play. Hoffman's parents divorced when he was 9.

With a versatility and discipline more common among British performers than Americans, he could seemingly take on any role, large or small, loathsome or sympathetic, and seemed to be utterly lacking in vanity.

On Broadway, he took on ambitious roles like Willy Loman in "Death of a Salesman," Jamie in "Long Day's Journey Into Night" and both leads in "True West." All three performances were Tony nominated.

His 2012 performance in "Death of a Salesman" was praised as "heartbreaking" by AP theater critic Mark Kennedy.

"Hoffman is only 44, but he nevertheless sags in his brokenness like a man closer to retirement age, lugging about his sample cases filled with his self-denial and disillusionment," Kennedy wrote. "His fraying connection to reality is pronounced in this production, with Hoffman quick to anger and a hard edge emerging from his babbling."

Two films starring Hoffman premiered last month at the Sundance Film Festival: the espionage thriller "A Most Wanted Man," directed by Anton Corbijn, and "God's Pocket," the directorial debut of John Slattery.

Hoffman is survived by his partner of 15 years, Mimi O'Donnell, and their three children.

Obituaries today: Abigael Norwood was figure skater, dancer, softball player, sports fan

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Obituaries from The Republican.

020214-abigail-norwood.jpgAbigael Norwood 

Abigael Louise Norwood, 25, passed away on Jan. 26. She resided in Ludlow for over 20 years, was a 2007 graduate of Ludlow High School, and also was a student at Holyoke Community College. She was a figure skater with the Little Sun Valley figure skating club of Springfield, and also was in the pre-professional dance program at the New England Dance Conservatory in East Longmeadow. She was a member of the St. John's softball team in Ludlow for several years. She was a big Boston sports fan and attended many of the sporting venues with either her family or her friends.

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Top Republicans say they stand by NJ Gov. Chris Christie

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High-profile Republicans were adamant Sunday that New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie should not resign from his post as chairman of the Republican Governors Association.

High-profile Republicans were adamant Sunday that New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie should not resign from his post as chairman of the Republican Governors Association after a recent claim from a former ally that there is evidence Christie knew about an apparently politically motivated traffic jam earlier than he has said.

The support from former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and Wisconsin U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan put Republicans on the offensive and the Democratic chairman of a state legislative committee investigating the September lane closures near the George Washington Bridge on the defensive the day Christie's state hosts the Super Bowl.

Christie, a potential 2016 presidential contender, has been going about Super Bowl ceremonial duties and has not taken questions about the scandal in recent days. He didn't respond Saturday when some spectators booed him at an appearance in New York City's Times Square. He's scheduled to watch Sunday's game with his family from a luxury box at MetLife Stadium.

Giuliani, appearing on CBS' "Face the Nation" took aim at the credibility of two figures central to the scandal: John Wisniewski, who's leading the investigative probe, and David Wildstein, the former Christie loyalist who as an executive at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey last year ordered the lane closures, as someone with less than pure motives.

He said Wildstein "wants somebody else to pay his legal bills and he can't get them paid unless the governor is responsible."

On Friday, Wildstein's lawyer wrote a letter to the Port Authority saying evidence exists that Christie knew about the traffic jams in Fort Lee as they happened. But he did not disclose any evidence in the letter.

Giuliani said Wisniewski is prejudiced and has ulterior motivations as a "guy who'd like to be governor."

Wisniewski also appeared on "Face the Nation" and defended his role and his previously stated doubts about what Christie knew and when.

"What I've said is I have skepticism about the governor's statement," he said. "I haven't said that the governor has responsibility for this. I haven't said that the governor knew when this was happening."

Democrats have taken to other forums to bash the governor. The Democratic National Committee started posted an online ad Sunday comparing Christie to a football player who seemed unstoppable before the scandal. "It's going to be a long game," the ad says.

By Saturday, Christie's allies were striking back after Wildstein's claim. The governor's team sent an email to politically plugged-in allies who might be in a position to defend Christie, bashing Wildstein and his accusations.

The message to donors, journalists and voters: Christie was not ceding ground.

And the supporters picked up those themes.

Ryan, appearing on ABC's "This Week," described Wildstein's allegations as "one person's word against the other" and said, "Nothing has been proven and you always give a person the benefit of the doubt in those kinds of situations."

Jindal, last year's RGA chairman, said Democrats who have called for Christie to step down from the RGA don't understand the organization or the role of its chairman. "The reality is within RGA, no one governor is more important than the other," he said.


Joe Andruzzi, National Grid raise money for cancer patients and families

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The Place restaurant in Boston – the official “home” of the Points for Patients campaign during away games – also donated 20 percent of all sales generated during Patriots away games.

BOSTON – Though football season is winding down in New England, the Joe Andruzzi Foundation and local energy provider National Grid are still celebrating touchdowns – commemorating another year of successful fund-raising. The Points for Patients campaign, which kicked off this past August, raised more than $158,000 for patients and families dealing with cancer.

For this year’s program, National Grid pledged to donate $500 to JAF for each and every New England Patriots touchdown scored during the 2013-2014 NFL season.

The Points for Patients campaign also included opportunities for the public to help tackle cancer’s impact, with the energy company matching donations made by the public, dollar for dollar up to $75,000.

The Place restaurant in Boston – the official “home” of the Points for Patients campaign during away games – also donated 20 percent of all sales generated during Patriots away games.

“The Points for Patients program has been such an overwhelming success for our foundation, and Jen and I are truly moved by the generosity of National Grid and its employees this season,” said Joe Andruzzi, former New England Patriot and three-time Super Bowl Champion, who co-founded the Joe Andruzzi Foundation after recovering from non-Hodgkin’s Burkitt’s Lymphoma six years ago. “Our foundation has a longstanding motto – to ‘pay it forward’ – and we couldn’t wait to visit the Waltham office.

Boston's two medical marijuana dispensaries still have regulatory hurdles to clear

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Of the five companies that applied for a medical marijuana dispensary license in Boston, only Green Heart Holistic Health & Pharmaceuticals and Good Chemistry of Massachusetts were awarded the opportunity to set up shop. Watch video

Boston Medical Marijuana Dispensaries View full sizeA map of medical marijuana dispensaries in Greater Boston.  
BOSTON — Of the five companies that applied for a medical marijuana dispensary license in Boston, only Green Heart Holistic Health & Pharmaceuticals and Good Chemistry of Massachusetts were awarded the opportunity to set up shop.

Both have a bit of a ways to go, though, before their doors will actually open.

Jaime Lewis, chief operating officer of Good Chemistry, said that the company will go through the zoning and permitting process next week, as well as meet with local neighborhood groups.

Good Chemistry, set to open up at 364-368 Boylston St., near Arlington Station on the Green Line, was challenged at first by trying to find a space that complied with the regulations that require a dispensary to be 500 feet away from the nearest school.

The security firm LAN-TEL will protect the facility Lewis said.

Lewis praised the DPH for the smoothness of the medical marijuana licensing process.

"It's amazing how the Department of Public Health handled this situation, in such a short amount of time. We've worked closing with other states in developing a medical marijuana program and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health handled it the best, really set the tone for other programs," said Lewis.

Green Heart Holistic Health & Pharmaceuticals could not be reached for immediate comment on their license. They plan to open a dispensary at 70 Southampton St. in the Newmarket neighborhood of Boston.

 The other three Boston companies that applied for licenses, Centers for Alternative Medicine, MA Care Connect, and Prime Wellness, were not on the list of applicants instructed to pick a different location.

Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh, an opponent of the medical marijuana law as a state legislator,

Paul Ryan: Immigration legislation unlikely in 2014

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Immigration legislation is a dicey political question for the GOP. The party's conservative base opposes any measure that would create a pathway to citizenship for immigrants living here illegally, but many in the party worry that failing to act could drive many voters to Democratic candidates.

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Days after House Republicans unveiled a roadmap for an overhaul of the nation's broken immigration system, one of its backers said legislation is unlikely to pass during this election year.

Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., said distrust of President Barack Obama runs so deep in the Republican caucus that he's skeptical the GOP-led House would pass any immigration measure. He said a plan that puts security first could only pass if lawmakers believe the administration would enforce it -- an unlikely prospect given Republicans' deep opposition to Obama.

"This isn't a trust-but-verify, this is a verify-then-trust approach," Ryan said.

Last week, House Republicans announced their broad concerns for any immigration overhaul but emphasized they would tackle the challenge bill-by-bill. Immigration legislation is a dicey political question for the GOP. The party's conservative base opposes any measure that would create a pathway to citizenship for immigrants living here illegally, but many in the party worry that failing to act could drive many voters to Democratic candidates. In 2012, Obama won re-election with the backing of 71 percent of Hispanic voters and 73 percent of Asian voters. The issue is important to both blocs.

Republicans have preemptively been trying to blame the White House for immigration legislation's failure, even before a House bill comes together. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor said "there's a lot of distrust of this administration in implanting the law." And Republican Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., last week warned that distrust of Obama would trump the desire to find a solution for the estimated 11 million people living in the United States illegally.

"We just don't think government will enforce the law anyway," Rubio said, recounting conversations he's had with fellow Republicans.

House Republicans are pushing a piecemeal approach to immigration that puts a priority on security before considering a pathway for those here illegally to earn citizenship. That strategy runs counter to a comprehensive bill, passed through the Senate seven months ago with bipartisan support, that includes a long and difficult pathway to citizenship.

The White House, meanwhile returned to its position that any legislation must include a way for those living here illegally to earn citizenship and that the system cannot divide Americans into two classes -- citizens and noncitizens.

"We ought to see a pathway to citizenship for people," White House chief of staff Denis McDonough said Sunday. "We don't want to have a permanent separation of classes or two permanent different classes of Americans in this country."

Last week, Obama suggested that he's open to a legal status for immigration that falls short of citizenship, hinting he could find common ground with House Republicans.

"I'm going to do everything I can in the coming months to see if we can get this over the finish line," Obama said Friday.

Obama's flexibility was a clear indication of the president's desire to secure an elusive legislative achievement before voters decide in the fall whether to hand him even more opposition in Congress. Republicans are expected to maintain their grip on the House and have a legitimate shot at grabbing the majority in the Senate.

McDonough said the White House remains optimistic that legislation that includes citizenship could reach the president's desk: "We feel pretty good that we'll get a bill done this year."

Not so, countered Ryan, the GOP's vice presidential nominee in 2012.

"Here's the issue that all Republicans agree on: We don't trust the president to enforce the law," he added.

Asked whether immigration legislation would make its way to Obama for him to sign into law, Ryan said he was skeptical: "I really don't know the answer to that question. That is clearly in doubt."

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, a Republican and son of immigrants, said Congress needs to address the "completely backwards system" not because it's good politics for the GOP but because it's the right thing to do.

"If the president had been serious about this the last five years, we'd be further along in this discussion," Jindal said. "But I think it's also right the American people are skeptical."

Ryan spoke to ABC's "This Week." Cantor was interviewed on CBS' "Face the Nation." McDonough appeared on NBC's "Meet the Press" and CBS. Jindal spoke to CNN's "State of the Union."

Four Chaplains, World War II heroes, recalled at rite at VA

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A commemorative service was held at the U.S. Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Leeds to honor four chaplains who are remembered for their selfless reactions as the ship sunk.

By ALEX LYMAN
NORTHAMPTON – Seventy-one years after the USS Dorchester sank, four members aboard the ill-fated ship are still being remembered.

A commemorative service was held at the U.S. Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Leeds to honor four chaplains who are remembered for their selfless reactions as the ship sunk.

The Dorchester carried troops during World War II and four chaplains of Protestant, Catholic and Jewish faith. The ship went down on Feb. 3, 1943. But instead of despairing, the Four Chaplains, as they have come to be known, gave up their life preservers, linked arms and prayed together. Fellow passengers joined in, feeling a moment of unity and comfort in the impending disaster. Of the 904 men on board, 605 died.

Springfield resident Harold Burt, who is a retired Petty Officer First Class in the Navy, explained the heroism that the Four Chaplains exemplified:

“Someone that serves aboard a ship has many choices to make,” he said. “Are you going to live or die? It’s a hard choice to make. They let someone else live, and gave up their own lives. If you give up your life preserver, it’s like giving up your air.”

In the years since their deaths – Rabbi Alexander Goode, the Rev. George L. Fox, the Rev. Clark V. Poling and the Rev. John P. Washington – have had chapels named for them and stained-glass windows designed with their likenesses.
In 1948 a commemorative U.S. postage stamp was issued, and in 1960 Congress created a special Medal of Valor that was awarded posthumously for their bravery.

“It’s hard for people who went to war to tell others what it’s like,” added Burt. “I’ve been there and can imagine what it was like for those chaplains to see the water coming in and knowing that was it. It’s important to remember what they did.”

The ceremony honoring the chaplains included their life synopses, the telling of the ship’s saga, and the placing of a memorial wreath.
It was sponsored by the American Legion.


Ex-Vermont Gov. Howard Dean endorses Democrat Steve Grossman in Massachusetts gubernatorial race

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As the latest Democrat to come out in support of Grossman, Dean, who remains active in party politics, cited the treasurer's progressive battles and values as reasons for backing him. Watch video

Former Vermont Governor and one-time presidential hopeful Howard Dean threw his support behind Massachusetts Treasurer Steve Grossman in the Bay State's gubernatorial contest on Sunday.

As the latest Democrat to come out in support of Grossman, Dean, who remains active in party politics, cited the treasurer's progressive battles and values including his "commitment to economic fairness, civil rights for LGBT families, and empowerment of young people to participate in the political process" as reasons for backing him.

"Steve Grossman is a bold progressive leader," Dean said in a press release announcing the endorsement. "He shares an ambitious vision to fight income inequality and allow all working families opportunity and access to the American Dream."

Grossman, who was endorsed by Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno on Friday, said he is appreciative of Dean's support.

"I'm deeply grateful to earn the support of Howard Dean, a pioneering leader who has taken bold stances on the tough issues long before it was politically popular to do so," Grossman said. "We share a vision for the Commonwealth and our nation that provides all its citizens, no matter who they are, where they live, or what they look like, with equality of opportunity."

Other Democrats running for governor in Massachusetts include Don Berwick, a former administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid under President Barack Obama, state Attorney General Martha Coakley, former homeland security administrator Juliette Kayyem and Joe Avellone III, a surgeon and former Wellesley selectman.

All the Democrats running participated in a forum in Northampton this past week ahead of the Democratic caucuses, slated to take place across the commonwealth from Feb. 8 through March 2. In order to proceed to the primary election in the fall, Democratic candidates need to land at least 15 percent of the vote from delegates at the convention in June.

Charlie Baker, who unsuccessfully ran for governor in 2010, is facing a challenge for the Republican Party's nomination from tea party member Mark Fisher of Shrewsbury. Baker is running as a team with lieutenant governor candidate Karyn Polito, a former state representative who ran unsuccessfully for state treasurer in 2010.

Health care executive Evan Falchuk is running under his newly created United Independent Party and Jeffrey McCormick, a founder of the Boston venture capital firm Saturn Partners, took out nomination papers in October to potentially run as an independent. The Springfield-based anti-gay minister Scott Lively also recently announced his candidacy.

The primary election in the gubernatorial race will take place on Sept. 9, with the general election slated for Nov. 4.


ArtsWorcester college art show provides space for young, upcoming artists

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It takes more than technique to produce great art and the 48 students selected for the Tenth Annual College Show at ArtsWorcester have the extra piece of the puzzle.

MeredithFoote_Scissorhands"Scissorhands" by Meredith Foote. 22" x 30", acrylic, gouache, pastel, ink, and pencil. 

WORCESTER — It takes more than technique to produce great art. The 48 students selected for the Tenth Annual College Show at ArtsWorcester have the needed final piece of the puzzle.

“The artwork needs to say something beyond language. There needs to be something in the artwork that you can’t describe, which I think it a pretty fantastic way to think about art," said ArtsWorcester Executive Director Juliet Feibel.

Nick Capasso, Director of the Fitchburg Art Museum, evaluated selections from roughly 150 area artists based on a number of criteria, including mastery of their chosen medium. His unique perspective drew out art that is not just excellent college pieces, but great art beyond the academic environment, said Feibel. The show features artists from all of Worcester's colleges and in the past has featured 90 artists, she said. The final show this year will feature 48 students and roughly 70 pieces of artwork, ranging from graphic design to more traditional portraits and sculpture.

"A broader selection did a wonderful job of recognizing students at multiple levels," said Feibel. "The show that Nick pulled exhibits the best technical work, the best concept and the best content."

Capasso's new directorship of the Fitchburg Art Museum has revolutionized its focus, she said, making displaying local artists a priority. Having someone with a trained eye select pieces for the show has lead to a whole new representation of upcoming area art.

"In a way it’s a very provocative view into what artists are making in this area,” said Feibel. “We see this year, a good deal of graphic and illustration, which we have not seen so much of in the past.”

The show also allows college artists to meet their peers both among other colleges as well as in the greater Worcester artist community.

“This is where you see ideas being exchanged and telephone numbers being exchanged," said Feibel. "This is where mixing it up ... truly transpires.”

The opening will be held at ArtsWorcester, 660 Main St., on Friday, Feb. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. Gallery hours run Thursday through Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m. through March 15. The reception and gallery are free and open to the public. Additionally, there is free parking available in the paved lots belonging to the Freemasons', at the corner of Ionic and Beacon Street.

Western Massachusetts environmentalists plan Monday night vigil asking President Obama to reject Keystone XL pipeline

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The State Department last week reported no major environmental objections to the proposed $7 billion Keystone XL pipeline from Canada to Texas.

AMHERST — Local environmental activists are planning to hold a protest vigil on the Town Common on Monday night at 7 to urge President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL Pipeline following the release of the State Department's Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement on Friday.

The State Department reported no major environmental objections to the proposed $7 billion pipeline that would run from Canada to Texas, according to the Associated Press.

Environmentalists say that the pipeline “would be a huge source of carbon pollution and thus clearly fails the climate test set by President Obama,” according to a press release from the Amherst event organizers. 




The event is organized and sponsored by Greening Grace, Climate Action Now MA, 350MA and the Enviro Show as part of a national campaign led by the groups CREDO, Rainforest Action Network and the Sierra Club, according to the release.

The report stops short of recommending approval of the pipeline, but the review gives Obama new support if he chooses to endorse it in spite of opposition from many Democrats and environmental groups, according to the news agency.

Beginning Wednesday there will be a 30-day comment period on the pipeline.


Obituaries today: James Yvon was teacher in Westfield and Springfield, member of Dan Kane Singers; played Santa in Westfield

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Obituaries from The Republican.

 
020314-james-yvon.jpgJames Yvon 

James N. Yvon, 70, of Westfield, died Saturday. He was born in Springfield, graduated from High School of Commerce and Westfield State College, and was a long-time resident of Westfield. He was an elementary principal in Granville and Bernardston, but his love was his 50 years of teaching children in Westfield and Springfield until his retirement in 2013. He was a board member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, president of the Westfield Education Association, president of Westfield Babe Ruth Baseball and a current member of the "esteemed back row" of the Dan Kane Singers. He was known as THE Santa Claus throughout the greater Westfield area.

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Springfield launches effort to renovate 16 schools with new roofs, windows and heating systems

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Springfield officials, as part of a continuing effort to maintain and improve school buildings across the city, have prepared "statements of interest" in pursuing state funds to assist projects proposed at 16 schools, ranging from new windows to new heating systems.

SPRINGFIELD — City officials, as part of a continuing effort to maintain and improve school buildings across the city, have prepared “statements of interest” in pursuing state funds to assist projects proposed at 16 schools, ranging from new windows to new heating systems.

The city plans to submit the statements of interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority, and could be eligible for 80 percent state reimbursement of costs, local officials said.

Superintendent of Schools Daniel J. Warwick said the average age of Springfield public schools is more than 55 years old, and said the city has “benefited tremendously” in its working relationship with the state’s school building authority on school construction and renovation needs.

“They’ve been a true partner in every sense of the word, going above and beyond to ensure that our buildings are afforded state-of-the-art new construction, upgrades and repairs that provide our students with environments that are most conducive for effective teaching and learning,” Warwick said.

The work being proposed includes:

New roofs at the following schools:

  • Balliet Elementary
  • Brunton Elementary
  • Hiram L. Dorman Elementary
  • Kensington International Elementary
  • Mary M. Lynch Elementary
  • STEM Middle Academy
  • Van Sickle Middle

New heating systems are proposed at:

  • Balliet
  • Brunton
  • Chestnut Accelerated Middle
  • Glenwood Elementary
  • Kensington
  • Liberty Elementary
  • Sumner Avenue Elementary
  • Arthur T. Talmadge Elementary
  • Mary M. Walsh Elementary

New windows and doors are proposed at:

  • Balliet
  • Brunton
  • Kennedy Middle School
  • Kensington
  • Alfred G. Zanetti Montessori Magnet School

The School Committee voted to support the newest statements of interest, and also voted in December to submit a formal request to the state authority to rebuild Homer Street and Brightwood elementary schools.

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno also praised the state building authority for its ongoing support of Springfield in building new schools and in major renovation projects.

“Obviously, we have to keep working on the physical plant of our buildings,” Sarno said. “Why not take advantage of 80 percent state reimbursement?”

Major projects in recent years have included construction of a new Putnam Vocational Technical Academy and a renovation-expansion of Kennedy Middle School. The state authority also authorized full funding for the ongoing construction of a new Brookings School and major renovations to Mary Dryden School, after severe damage from a 2011 tornado.

Patrick J. Sullivan, the city’s director of parks and buildings, said the city has a multi-year plan to repair and renovate schools, with the schools in greatest need pursued first.


Hadley Town Meeting moderator recalls Dennis Hukowicz as police chief who put residents first

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Hukowicz joined the department in 1974.

Updates a story posted at 11:58 a.m.


HADLEY -- Town meeting moderator and former selectman Gerald Devine on Monday recalled Hadley Police Chief Dennis J. Hukowicz as a town native who always put the needs of his fellow residents first.

Hukowicz died Sunday, the Daily Hampshire Gazette reports, after taking a sick leave in November. He joined the department in 1974, was promoted to sergeant in 1980, and had served as the town's chief of police since 1993, according to court documents.

"He was very concerned about the citizens and their input," Devine said. "He was budget-conscious. He always tried to do the best he could with what he had available to him."

Devine said that during his four-decade career Hukowicz saw the town go through changes as the malls came in and the department grew. "I think that the job has changed and I think he was able to adapt and adjust to those changes," Devine said.

Hukowicz was always level-headed in his decision-making, Devine said, adding that he hopes his friend's work will serve a model for the next chief.

"I think it's a tremendous loss to the town," Devine said. "I think he was an outstanding servant to the people, and I am going to miss him."

Thomas Waskiewicz, a former and long-time School Committee member and life-long friend of Hukowicz, said the police chief “really had Hadley at the heart of everything he did. I think with every breath he was thinking ‘What can I do best to help this town?'"

Like Devine, Waskiewicz said Hukowicz made sure the department grew along with the town over the years, adding: “He also worked closely with the neighboring police departments, Amherst and Northampton, to make sure there was the best coverage possible."

Waskiewicz, an educator with the UMass Extension 4-H Youth Development program, said that Hukowicz, a fellow farmer, was a dedicated 4-H volunteer. Hukowicz, he said, would purchase “top-of-the-line sheep” and turn them over to 4-H youth so they could learn about the sheep industry and gain poise and confidence as they presented the animals at area fairs.

“He showed his support by going to the fairs each weekend and cheering them on and sharing his enthusiasm like a parent,” Waskiewicz said. ”We are going to feel his loss on so many levels.”

“It won't be the same without him,” said Town Clerk Jessica Spanknabel. News of his death spread through the town Sunday morning. “He’s been part of this town for 37 years. He loved working with with the kids. He loved being a farmer,” she said.

Sgt. Damion Shanley is currently the town's acting police chief.

Redesigned Hampden Country Club site plan approval overturned by Hampden Zoning Board of Appeals

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Hampden Country Club spokesman Jonathan Murray said he looks forward to an amicable resolution with the abutters.

HAMPDEN — The Zoning Board of Appeals has overturned a decision by the Planning Board that had approved a site plan for the redesigned Hampden Country Club.

With about 60 abutters of the country club in attendance, the Board of Appeals voted 5 to 0 on Jan. 28 to overturn the Planning Board’s site plan approval.

Phillip Schneider, of Raymond Drive, a spokesman for residents who formed a group they call the Hampden Country Club Buffer Committee, said the group is waiting to receive the written decision from the Board of Appeals. “We’re gratified by the Board of Appeals’ decision,” Schneider said.

The abutters complained that the country club in renovating the golf course had ignored a 1973 zoning bylaw which requires a 100-foot landscaped buffer strip between the golf course and abutters’ homes.

In the past year and a half, the new owners of the Hampden Country Club, Jerry Antonacci, president of USA Hauling and Recycling in Enfield, which bought the country club in 2012 at auction for $1.4 million, has taken out 40-year-old trees in the buffer and extended the course to the property lines of residents on Wilbraham Road, Raymond Drive and Pinewood Drive.

The vote by the Board of Appeals requires that the buffer be reinstated and the trees replanted, Schneider said.

Jonathan Murray, spokesman for the Hampden Country Club, said after the Board of Appeals’ decision, “From the day we purchased Hampden Country Club, we have abided by all requests from town officials and complied with all applicable bylaws in order to revitalize one of Hampden’s most iconic landmarks.”

Murray said, “We will await the ZBA’s written decision before determining any further course of action.”

Schneider said the ruling by the Board of Appeals requires that the 1973 town bylaw be followed by everybody, “including those who live in town and those who are from out of town.”

Murray said, “We were gratified to hear at Tuesday’s meeting that although our neighbors have some concerns, they share our goal of bringing this great course back to life. ... We remain committed to coming to an amicable resolution on this issue and we will work tirelessly to create a world-class facility that the town of Hampden and the entire region can be proud of.”



Springfield police: ATV crash leaves 29-year-old Sixteen Acres man in critical condition

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Investigators believe the victim had been wearing a helmet and that it popped off in the crash.

SPRINGFIELD -- A 29-year-old ATV rider who crashed in the Sixteen Acres neighborhood Sunday night was taken to Baystate Medical Center with serious injuries.

Officer Jose Canini, summoned to the area of Keddy Street and Leatherleaf Drive at about 8:30 p.m., found that an ATV had crashed on Keddy Street and that the driver struck his head on the curb, Sgt. John M. Delaney said.

Investigators believe the victim had been wearing a helmet and that it popped off in the crash, said Delaney, aide to Commissioner William Fitchet.

The victim, who lives on Leatherleaf Drive, was conscious at the scene of the crash and initially refused to go to the hospital, Delaney said, adding that he was listed in critical condition shortly after his admittance.

Police were sent to the area after receiving a report of two ATVs speeding on city streets. The second operator did not remain at the scene, Delaney said.

Sgt. Steven Wyszynski of the Traffic Division is investigating.


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Former assistant district attorney Hal Etkin running for Hampden DA

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Hal Etkin, 56, of Longmeadow, served as assistant Hampden district attorney from 1984 to 1991 and director of the Western Massachusetts Police Academy from 1993 to 2002.

SPRINGFIELD — Hal Etkin, a former assistant district attorney and director of the regional police academy, has announced his candidacy for Hampden district attorney.

Hal EtkinAttorney Hal Etkin of Longmeadow, candidate for Hampden County district attorney.  

Etkin, 56, of Longmeadow, served as assistant Hampden district attorney from 1984 to 1991 and director of the Western Massachusetts Police Academy from 1993 to 2002.

In his first bid for public office, Etkin said his experience has given him the deep understanding of law enforcement necessary to serve as the county’s top prosecutor.

“My criminal experience prosecuting cases – especially at the trial level – is necessary to select, evaluate and guide the prosecutors in the office,” said Etkin, adding that his experience includes hundreds of criminal jury trials.

“Being a prosecutor and running a police academy taught me how difficult it is for police officers protecting our community. Stopping a car alone at night or responding to a motor vehicle accident can be dangerous and stressful for police officers,” he added.

He is seeking the post held by Hampden District Attorney Mark A. Mastroianni, who has been nominated for a federal judgeship. If Mastroianni is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Gov. Deval L. Patrick will appoint an interim Hampden district attorney to serve until the 2014 election.

If elected, Etkin said, he will serve only two terms; during his first term, Etkin promised, “more criminals will go to jail than ever before.”

If his office fails to reduce crime during that first term, “I will be too embarrassed to run for a second term,” he said.

“With God’s help, we can reduce crime and make all of Hampden County a better place to live,” he said.

Etkin graduated from Western New England University School of Law, where he served on the Law Review. He lives with his wife of 29 years, Linda, and a daughter.

He has served as prosecutor for Southwick Police Department cases, and taught criminal justice at a variety of colleges, including Anna Maria College, Bay Path College, Quincy College and Springfield Technical Community College.

He also has been active in community organizations, including the Springfield Boys and Girls Club, where he is president-elect, and the Drama Studio in Springfield.

As an assistant district attorney, he served as chief prosecutor for the newly created child abuse unit and was later appointed as adviser to the Washington D.C.-based National Center for the prosecution of Child Abuse.

“The district attorney must work both inside and outside the courthouse to be effective. I am a strong believer in crime prevention. After all, fewer crimes means fewer prosecutions,” he said.


Home in Orange heavily damaged in fire

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Reports from the scene have the roof and exterior walls collapsing.

ORANGE – Firefighters are on the scene of a fire at 18 Terrace Street that caused heavy damage to single family home.

American Red Cross Pioneer Valley has dispatched volunteers to the scene to assist firefighters on the scene and to offer any aid needed by residents.

The fire was reported just before 10 a.m.

Orange firefighters were assisted at the scene by fire departments from surrounding towns including Athol, Warwick and Phillipston.

Fireground360 is reporting the roof and an exterior walls of the home have collapsed. There were no reports of any injuries.

Fireground 360 published several photos from the scene on its Facebook page that show the building sustained extensive damage and may well be a total loss.

According to the Orange Board of Assessors, the property is owned by Charles E. and Luanne Pierson. The home, constructed in 1900, is a two-story wood frame, and the property has a total valuation of $120,000.

This is a developing story. More information will be posted as it is known.


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Worcester man punches 64-year-old in the face after demanding cash

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An 18-year-old Worcester man has been accused of demanding money from a 64-year-old man before punching him in the face at a gas station Saturday.

WORCESTER — An 18-year-old Worcester man is accused of demanding money from a 64-year-old man before punching him in the face at a gas station Saturday.

"According to the victim (the suspect) approached him demanding money and then punched him in the face," stated a release from the Worcester Police Department. "The force of the assault caused the victim to fall to the ground."

The victim was transported to the hospital and treated for a facial injury after police arrived at approximately 11:20 a.m. on Saturday, according to police. Before being transported, the man reportedly told police he had pumped gas for the suspect — later identified as William Cordor, 18, of 5 Ashley St. — who had been driving a white Cadillac. After paying for the gas and driving off, Cordor allegedly returned to the station and punched the man in the face as he demanded cash, police stated.

Police tracked down the owner of the Cadillac using a license plate number provided by the victim. The owner gave them Cordor's name, according to police. Police and Cordor's family members attempted to get ahold of him on Saturday.

At approximately 2:50 p.m., Cordor met with detectives and was arrested on charges of aggravated assault and battery causing serious bodily injury and armed assault to rob on a person over the age of 60.

Malia Gomez, accused of stabbing Dana Robinson to death in Cambridge, held without bail

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40-year-old Malia Gomez of Cambridge was formally charged in the stabbing death of Dana Robinson in Cambridge District Court Monday morning.

BOSTON -- 40-year-old Malia Gomez of Cambridge was formally charged in the stabbing death of Dana Robinson in Cambridge District Court Monday morning.

Gomez pleaded not guilty to armed assault with intent to murder and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. She was held without bail.

Robinson, 46, was allegedly stabbed by Gomez in a Putnam Avenue apartment building on Sunday morning.

Gomez was transported to a Boston area hospital and later pronounced dead.

Officials have not elaborated on the relationship between the two, but a woman claiming to be a relative of Gomez's told the Boston Herald that the incident was a case of mental illness and that the two were acquaintances.

Gomez is due back in court later this month.

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