Wednesday, April 16, 2014 by The Westfield News

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The Westfield News Serving Westfield, Southwick, and the surrounding Hilltowns

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Knapik, Westfield Day investigated

Planner seek plastic ordinance change By Dan Moriarty Staff Writer WESTFIELD – The Planning Board heard details of a proposed ordinance amendment last night which would allow the manufacture of plastic products in the Industrial A district, but continue to prohibit the actual manufacture of plastic in the city. The Board then furthered amended the proposed ordinance change, petitioned by the City Council, which will conduct its own hearing tomorrow night, to make the use of plastic, either pellets or recycled plastic, an allowed use by special permit. The board initially voted on a motion to send a positive recommendation to the City Council, which as the city’s legislative body has the authority to amend the city’s code of ordinances, but that motion failed by a 2-5 vote because of environmental concerns raised by several board members after hearing from four residents who spoke in opposition during the public hearing. The second motion to send a positive recommendation included the requirement that there be a review and local control through a special permit process. That motion was approved by a vote of 6-1. Planning Chairman Philip McEwan raised the concern about making the use of plastic for product production a “byright” use under the ordinance amendment sent to the board by the City Council. “I have a concern about it, that there is no review whatsoever,” McEwan said. “I’m not opposed to the industry, but there are different processes to See Plastics, Page 7

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Westfield Mayor Daniel Knapik, center, presented Don Podolski, left, Jeanne Chistolini with a citation after they were honored as Volunteers of the Year during a ceremony at Westfield City Hall last night. Podolski was nominated by the Friends of the Columbia Greenway and Chistolini was nominated by the Carson Center. The event was sponsored by The Non-Profit Volunteer Network of the Greater Westfield. (Photo by Frederick Gore)

Volunteers honored By David Kennedy Westfield News intern WESTFIELD – Last night, Westfield Mayor Daniel M. Knapik recognized both Jeanne Chistolini of the Carson Center and Don Podolski of Friends of the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail (FOCGRT) with a ‘Volunteer of the Year Award’ in the City Council Chambers of the City Hall. The annual ceremony was coordinated by the Non-Profit Volunteer Network (NPVN). The award was an acknowledgment of Chistolini and Podolski’s dedicated community service work in Westfield. They were picked out of a pool of ten candidates who had been nominated for the award by their respective organizations, all members of the NPVN. The NPVN is a local group of collaborating, non-profit organizations that seeks to broaden awareness of, and participation in, community work. The NPVN has facilitated the Volunteer of the Year Award Ceremony for over five years. “This is really all about these folks,” said Barbara Trant, one of the leaders of the NPVN. “Our purpose is to highlight the work that they do to support local non-profits, organizations that in turn serve the city.” Chistolini is a Carson Center Ambassador. She was nominated for her “record of exceptional generosity and dependable commitment as a volunteer in the Greater Westfield

Community,” and has been “the ‘go-to’ person for seeking to share resources and get things done,” noted the Center. Podolski, is the Director of Education at FOCGRT, which works to create a pedestrian and bicycle friendly community. FOCGRT said upon nominating him; “Podolski has been an advocate for bicycling for decades, including being one of the earliest voices for the idea of the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail.” He also served as the first Chair of FOCGRT. “These people were chosen based on how they served their communities,” said Trant. “We (the NPVN) are here to honor their service.”

Westfield Mayor Daniel Knapik, left, announces the winners at last night’s Annual Volunteer of the Year Award Ceremony sponsored by The Non-Profit Volunteer Network of Greater Westfield. (Photo by Frederick Gore)

Donate Life Month marked

The Rev. Bart Cochran leads a group gathered to commemorate Donate Life Month in prayer at Southwick Town Hall last week. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)

what you do with what’s been done to you.” — Jean-Paul Sartre

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014

VOL. 83 NO. 89

“Freedom is

By Hope E. Tremblay Staff Writer National Donate Life Month is being celebrated across the country throughout April, including right here in Westfield and Southwick. Flags were raised to commemorate the month and honor the generous donations of life given in both communities. In Southwick, a group of residents gathered at Town Hall to raise a flag and share stories. For Susan Sanders, who helped organize the event, an organ donation saved her life, and she will never forget and hopes others will consider giving the gift of life. “One donor has the power to save and enhance the lives of 50 people,” she said. This year, Noble Hospital raised the Donate Life flag for the first time in honor of employees Joan Murphy and Linda Gallo. Several years ago Gallo was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease. This causes kidney function to decline and eventually it becomes necessary to replace this function through dialysis or transplant. Gallo and Murphy have been friends and working together for close to 30 years. They were both happy to learn the donation could take place in September 2013. Now over six months later, Gallo and her donor Murphy are both feeling well. See Donate Life, Page 3

By Dan Moriarty Staff Writer WESTFIELD – A state Ethics Commission investigator requested Mayor Daniel M. Knapik to provide information pertaining to a social reception hosted by the mayor during the Big E’s Westfield Day event last fall. Knapik posted information yesterday on his Facebook account about the Ethics Commission investigation of a possible violation by elected officials and public employees for failing to report that they accepted gifts of food and beverages valued at $50 or more. “I spoke with the ethics MAYOR investigation for about a half DANIEL hour who was investigating M. KNAPIK an anonymous complaint,” Knapik said this morning. “I answered all of her questions to the best of my ability. “In theory, any elected officials or public employee could be in violation for accepting the food and beverages at that party if they have a value of more than $50,” Knapik said. “The violation is for accepting something valued at $50 or more that they received only because of their status as a public official.” “I take it very seriously, not just for Westfield, but for all officials who attended the state and city day events, which could be in jeopardy,” Knapik said. Knapik said he does not know who contacted the Ethics Commission, or the specific basis of the complaint, but noted that any decision finding him to be in violation could have a wide-ranging impact because the Big E funds mayoral receptions for most other surrounding communities. That impact could extend to the Governor’s office because of the Big E-funded reception during Massachusetts Day. “After asking questions about a paid event for public officials and employees, she asked if the Big E does business with any of the communities involved in the reception events,” Knapik said. “Westfield does not do business with the Big E, but West Springfield, and possibly Agawam, do because of payment in lieu of taxes.” See Knapik, Page 3

Boat patrol proposed for Hampton Ponds By Carl E. Hartdegen Staff Writer WESTFIELD – Residents of the Hampton Ponds section of the city may see a vastly increased presence on the ponds this summer if Police Chief Michael Camerota is able to realize an enforcement proposal he made at Monday’s meeting of the city’s police commission. Camerota said that the residents of the area are “starving for some law enforcement on the water” and reported that he has developed a plan to respond to their needs. He said that he has researched the problem and found that neither the state nor the environmental police forces are in a position to provide boat patrols on the pond but the city may be able to fill the vacuum. Camerota explained that efforts had been made to address the problem of not being able to respond to boating complaints in the past but said “we were never able to get to the enforcement level and we’re really trying to get there this year.” “There’s a family that wants to give us a pontoon boat at a very very reasonable cost,” he said. He said that he consulted Fire Chief Mary Regan while planning his proposal because there are “many many medical calls up there during the summer” and said “it would be in their best interest to have a paramedic on board with us.” Camerota said that the boat under consideration is big enough to comfortably carry as many as six persons, has plenty of room for necessary equipment and is well suited to operations on the ponds. Although the boat is used, he said “The boat is perfect. We saw See Boat Patrol, Page 7

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Navigating the service network for older adults can be an intimidating, time consuming, and daunting task. Programs vary in their funding sources, eligibility requirements, and availability. Without knowing where to begin, older adults, family members, or caregivers frequently give up before they ever get started. That may be the difference between an older adult getting appropriate housing, personal and wellness care, medications, transportation, proper nutrition, and even recreational opportunities or going without. In an effort to address this “information gap,” each year the Westfield Council On Aging sponsors its annual “Senior Options” event. What began years ago as a health fair, has expanded to include a broad spectrum of services and programs TINA GORMAN designed to enhance the well being of the community’s older adults. Representatives well versed in community support services, medical and disability services, consumer information, travel, housing, skilled nursing facilities, and recreation and leisure will be available for consultation by seniors and their family members. Senior Options 2014 will be held in the South Middle School cafeteria on Thursday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors will have an opportunity to sit with vendors one-on-one, ask questions, and obtain information. Representatives from the PVTA will be on hand to explain the PVTA van transportation system as well as to issue PVTA photo identification cards. Card carriers can ride the large PVTA busses at a discounted rate. In addition, the cards offer a form of identification for those who no longer carry a driver’s license. Local legislators will be in attendance to discuss concerns of particular importance to this population. The Westfield Police, Fire, and EMS Departments, the Alzheimer’s Association, Mercy Adult Day Health Center, Highland Valley Elder Services, HAP Housing Home Modification Loan Program, Whip City Travelers, The Arbors, Armbrook Village, and Noble Visiting Nurse and Hospice are just a sampling of the organizations that will be represented at the event. In addition, Millie Johnson from the Office of Consumer Information, specializes in identity theft, credit disputes, shopping rights, telemarketing, and landlord/tenant rights. Traditionally, a festive atmosphere permeates the event and this year should be no exception. Throughout the day, visitors can peruse an Art Show which will feature pieces on display and for sale by participants in the Senior Center’s “Art Unlimited” class. Lunch will be prepared by the Senior Center Cooking Crew and will be available for a nominal fee. Entertainment will be provided by the Senior Center’s Do Re Mi Singers followed by a Chinese auction and grand prize raffle, a television donated by Firtion Adams Funeral Service. This event is a public service provided to older adults and their family members so that they can learn how to access the services and programs that are most appropriate for them and their loved ones both currently and in the future. Senior Options 2014 provides an ideal opportunity to obtain valuable information in a socially energized atmosphere that would otherwise require dozens of telephone calls, hours of time, and probably a great deal of frustration. There is no admission fee for this “older adult informational one-stop shopping” opportunity. Tina Gorman Executive Director Westfield Council On Aging

48-52 Clear and cold. Widespread frost likely.

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Tolland

Corps supports rafters on Westfield River CONCORD – Controlled releases of water will be made by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, from Knightville Dam and Littleville Lake Dam in Huntington this weekend to provide adequate river flows for recreational canoeing, kayaking and rafting, according to Corps of Engineers officials. The Corps of Engineers will provide a water release flow from Knightville Dam of approximately 900 cubic feet per second (cfs) starting Saturday at 5:30 a.m. for the 61st annual Westfield River Wildwater Races, according to Park Ranger Edwin Lippman at Knightville Dam in Huntington. At this time, it appears spring runoff will be sufficient to sustain this flow for most, in not all, of the rest of the weekend. Also, a flow of approximately 300 cfs will be released from Littleville Lake Dam during those days and times. Knightville Dam, on the Westfield River in Huntington, was constructed at a cost of $3.3 million. The 1,200-footlong, 150-foot-high dam can impound a 49,000-acre-foot reservoir (equivalent to 15.8 billion gallons of water). Since its construction in 1941, the project has prevented flood damages of $336.4 million ($643.7 million adjusted for inflation). More than 41,000 annual visitors enjoy the variety of recreational pursuits available at Knightville, including picnicking, hiking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding and cross country skiing and snowmobiling in season. For up-to-date information call the Park Ranger staff at Knightville Dam at (413) 667-3430 or visit the website at http://www.nae.usace.army. mil/Missions/Recreation/KnightvilleDam.aspx. Depending on the weather, the Corps anticipates about 200 to 300 people taking advantage of the water release for recreational purposes. The water releases that support these recreational activities are subject to an adequate volume of water See Wildwater Races, Page 5

Odds & Ends THURSDAY

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Senior Options 2014

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WEATHER DISCUSSION Look for sunny skies today along with a north breeze. Thanks to that chilly breeze, temperatures will be about 20° cooler this afternoon, only topping out in the mid-40s. Expect sunny skies once again tomorrow with highs returning to the low-50s! Friday will have plenty of sunshine and highs in the mid50s!

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Maine animal shelter buried under carrot avalanche SKOWHEGAN, Maine (AP) — A Maine animal shelter has so many carrots it doesn’t know what to do. The Somerset Humane Society in Skowhegan received the carrots last week from a trucking company that wanted to get rid of them after a supermarket manager turned them away because some were bruised. The carrots were still edible and the trucking company didn’t want to waste them. Shelter Director Hattie Spaulding estimates they got three to four tons of carrots. She tells the Morning Sentinel (http:// bit.ly/1m4U6ui ) she’s donated them to area food pantries and homeless shelters, the county jail, and offered them for 50 cents a bag to the public. Most of the dogs and cats at the shelter aren’t particularly interested in carrots, but Spaulding says a local horse owner has offered to take some.

LOCAL LOTTERY Last night’s numbers

MASSACHUSETTS MassCash 04-09-12-15-29 Mega Millions 04-39-46-47-70, Mega Ball: 13 Estimated jackpot: $28 million Megaplier 3 Numbers Evening 0-8-8-1 Numbers Midday 0-4-6-5 Powerball Estimated jackpot: $110 million

CONNECTICUT Cash 5 01-07-17-19-24 Lotto 01-02-08-25-38-44 Estimated jackpot: $1.7 million Play3 Day 3-9-2 Play3 Night 7-6-8 Play4 Day 4-8-7-1 Play4 Night 8-8-4-9 Powerball Estimated jackpot: $110 million

THIS WEEK IN HISTORY Today is Wednesday, April 16, the 106th day of 2014. There are 259 days left in the year.

n April 16, 1964, The Rolling Stones’ first album, eponymously titled “The Rolling Stones,” was released in the United Kingdom by Decca Records (a slightly different version debuted in the United States a month and a-half later).

On this date: In 1789, President-elect George Washington left Mount Vernon, Va., for his inauguration in New York. In 1862, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln signed a bill ending slavery in the District of Columbia. The Confederacy conscripted all white men between the ages of 18 to 35. In 1879, Bernadette Soubirous, who’d described seeing visions of the Virgin Mary at Lourdes, died in Nevers (nehVEHR’), France. In 1889, comedian and movie director Charles Chaplin was born in London. In 1912, American aviator Harriet Quimby became the first woman to fly across the English Channel, traveling from Dover, England, to France in 59 minutes. In 1935, the radio comedy program “Fibber McGee and Molly” premiered on NBC’s Blue Network. In 1947, the French ship Grandcamp blew up at the harbor in Texas City, Texas; another ship, the High Flyer, exploded the following day (the blasts and fires killed nearly 600 people). Financier Bernard M. Baruch said in a speech at the South Carolina statehouse, “Let us not be deceived — we are today in the midst of a cold war.”

In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. wrote his “Letter from Birmingham Jail” in which he said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” In 1972, Apollo 16 blasted off on a voyage to the moon with astronauts John W. Young, Charles M. Duke Jr. and Ken Mattingly on board. In 1986, dispelling rumors he was dead, Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi appeared on television to condemn the U.S. raid on his country and to say that Libyans were “ready to die” defending their nation. In 1994, Ralph Ellison, author of “Invisible Man,” died in New York. In 2007, in the deadliest shooting rampage in modern U.S. history, student Seung-Hui Cho (sung-wee joh) killed 32 people on the campus of Virginia Tech before taking his own life.

Ten years ago: Videotape broadcast on the Arab TV station Al-Jazeera showed Army Pfc. Keith M. Maupin, abducted during an attack on a fuel truck convoy near Baghdad a week earlier. (Arab television reported June 29, 2004 that Maupin had been killed; his remains were recovered in 2008.) President George W. Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair, meeting in Washington, endorsed giving the United Nations broad control over Iraq’s political future.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama issued a statement saying CIA officials who’d used harsh interrogation tactics during

the Bush administration would not be prosecuted; the president traveled to Mexico, where he pledged to help the country in its battle against drugs and violence. The crew of the cargo ship Maersk Alabama, who’d thwarted pirates off the Somali coast, returned to the U.S.; ship’s captain Richard Phillips, held hostage for five days, arrived in Kenya aboard the USS Bainbridge. U.N. nuclear experts ordered to leave by North Korea departed the country. The Cleveland Indians ruined the Yankees’ first game at their new stadium by beating New York 10-2.

One year ago: Federal agents zeroed in on how the Boston Marathon bombing was carried out — with kitchen pressure cookers packed with explosives, nails and other lethal shrapnel — but said they didn’t know yet who’d done it, or why. An envelope addressed to Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., tested positive for ricin, a potentially fatal poison. NFL playerturned-broadcaster Pat Summerall died in Dallas; he was 82.

Today’s Birthdays: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is 87. Actor Peter Mark Richman is 87. Singer Bobby Vinton is 79. Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II is 74. Basketball Hall-of-Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is 67. Ann Romney is 65. NFL coach Bill Belichick is 62. Rock singer-turned-politician Peter Garrett is 61. Actress Ellen Barkin is 60. Rock musician Jason Scheff (Chicago) is 52. Singer Jimmy Osmond is 51. Rock singer David Pirner (Soul Asylum) is 50. Actorcomedian Martin Lawrence is 49. Actor Jon Cryer is 49. Rock musician Dan Rieser is 48. Actor Peter Billingsley is 43. Actor Lukas Haas is 38. Figure skater Mirai Nagasu is 21.

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

Billions approved for transportation BOSTON (AP) — Construction could begin in the near future on several high-profile transportation projects around the state following an agreement reached by legislative negotiators on a $13 billion bond bill. The deal was reached by a six-member conference committee late Monday and was expected to go before the full House and Senate later in the week. The bill would authorize the state to borrow for a range of projects, many of which have been on the drawing board for years, including $2.3 billion for the expansion of commuter rail service to the South Coast region of Massachusetts. The bill also authorizes $325 million for improvements to Boston’s South Station, and calls for the regional rail hub to be renamed The Governor Michael S. Dukakis Transportation Center in honor of the former governor and onetime Democratic presidential candidate, who has long advocated for improved passenger rail service. The compromise also includes up to $1.3 billion for the extension of the MBTA’s Green Line to Medford, and $2.5 billion for the purchase of new Red Line and Orange Line trains, with a stipulation that final assembly of the new vehicles be done by a company in Massachusetts. It would also increase penalties for MBTA fare evaders. The measure authorizes $300 million for local road improvement, $100 million more than had previously been put aside by Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration under the state’s Chapter 90 municipal road program. Cities and town officials were hoping to receive funds in time for the spring and summer construction season. Tucked in the bill are also dozens of smaller transportation projects, some of which were added to the legislation at the request of individual lawmakers during earlier debate in the House and Senate. Final passage of the measure would not guarantee that all the projects ultimately go forward, nor is there any timetable for construction to begin. But Secretary of Transportation Richard Davey said last week that the state was ready with a list of priorities once the bond bill was in place. The transportation agency in January released what it called a first-of-its-kind, five-year $12.4 billion capital improvement plan that included many of the proposals included in the bill. Prospects for upgrading the state’s deteriorating infrastructure got a boost last July when the Legislature approved a transportation financing bill that included higher taxes on gasoline and cigarettes, as well as a tax on computer software services that was later repealed under pressure from technology companies. While Patrick had sought more financing than what was provided in last year’s bill, the administration has welcomed the funding as a key step forward in rebuilding the state’s transportation network. “Transportation improvements and Chapter 90 funds are essential to providing stability and spurring economic growth in Massachusetts,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo in a statement yesterday. “That growth starts on the local level which is why the House has been, and will continue to be, an unyielding champion of municipalities across the state. “The funding in this bill builds upon last year’s transportation finance legislation which is resulting in sustainable, lasting changes and provides cities and towns with the funds they so rightly deserve,” said DeLeo. “I thank my colleagues in the House, the Senate and the conferees for their work on this crucial legislation.”

Donate Life Continued from Page 1 Another Noble employee, Mary-Lou Keefe, received a double lung transplant from Pittsburg Medical Center. She was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, a chronic lung disease in 2008. Since her 2011 transplant she’s been able to return to work, and enjoy the active lifestyle that wasn’t possible for her before. “The smallest donation can make the biggest difference in someone’s life,” stated Keefe. Noble Hospital Vice President of Community Development Allison Gearing-Kalill said that the hospital participates in the donation of organs and tissue regularly. The hospital was recently awarded “Outstanding Support of Tissue Donation in 2012” by LifeChoice Donor Services. Noble Hospital received this award by achieving a 42 percent conversion rate, above the donation service area conversion rate of 32 percent. This year, in addition to raising the Donate Life flag in April, Noble Hospital will also raise the flag when a donation is made, such as the one for Gallo. Sanders said she looks forward to seeing the flag at the hospital. “When you see the flag there, you know there’s been a miracle,” Sanders said. According to donatelife. net, currently more than 110,000 men, women and children are awaiting organ transplants to save their lives. Thousands more are in need of tissue and cornea transplants to restore their mobility and sight.

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM

Government Meetings WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16 GRANVILLE EMTs at 7 pm

BLANDFORD Finance Committee at 7 pm Board of Health Meeting at 7 pm

WESTFIELD Off-Street Parking Commission at 7 pm

HUNTINGTON Water & Sewer Department Conservation Commission will not meet Selectboard at 5:30 pm

THURSDAY, APRIL 17 WESTFIELD Contributory Retirement Board at 3 pm City Council at 7 pm

GRANVILLE Library Trustees at 7 pm

BLANDFORD Library Trustees Meeting at 7:30 pm

MONDAY, APRIL 21 GRANVILLE Monday Night Meetings at 7 pm Planning Board

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014 - PAGE 3

Knapik Continued from Page 1 Ward 4 Councilor Mary O’Connell was unavailable for comment for this article but she did comment in an article published last fall about the list of invitees to the mayor’s reception. The Westfield News reported in that Sept. 13, 2013 article that O’Connell had filed a Freedom of Information Act request for information from Knapik regarding a social gathering the mayor was sponsoring at the Big E on Westfield Day. O’Connell said that the Big E has sponsored a Westfield Day “forever” and that the mayors in office over the years have taken a “non-partisan” approach to inviting all elected officials, city officers and many residents to a social gathering held that day. “I did not get an invitation this year and I called the Big E to see if it was an oversight,” O’Connell said for that article. “I was told that it was not a mistake.” O’Connell contacted Knapik asking to be added to the list of invitees. Knapik declined that request based on the policy of inviting people who attended the previous year. At-large Councilor Brian Sullivan said this morning that the ethics violation complaint “is a sad day for both the Big E and local communities.” “Regardless of whatever decision comes out of this investigation by the Ethics Commission, this will have a chilling impact on future participation by the entire city, the Boys and Girls Club and Westfield High School marching band, as well as other organizations which march in the parade,” Sullivan said. He said the Mayor’s Reception is a special event “because every year they recognize an outstanding resident for their contribution, usually through volunteerism, to the community as that year’s representative at Westfield Day.” “It’s unfortunate that someone’s personal agenda is effecting a feel-good day for all of the kids and residents of our community,” Sullivan said.

TOLLAND LEGAL HOLIDAY-Town Hall Closed All Day Men’s Coffee at PSC Building at 7:45 am

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PAGE 4 - WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014

We the citizens of Westfield elect our city council members. We vote based on who we feel will be the most diligent when it comes to what is best for our community, and the city as a whole. Decisions should not be based solely on what is easiest to get passed, or what is the cheapest way out, but should also take into consideration what is morally the right path to take. In this instance, the bike path plans should have been better thought out. I realize that the original plans were drawn up before Ralph Figy was elected to the City Council, but that does not mean that he has to just accept what is going on in his ward. If anyone has not seen the “progress” being made for the access ramp for the bike path, please take a little time and drive down East Silver St. The access ramp is plotted out, and will be approximately 10 feet away from the abutting homes. Not only should the disruption of the lives of the abutting families been taken into consideration, but apparently there was minimal thought to the safety of any children who would be exiting on the access ramp on East Silver Street. There is nothing in the plans as of yet to show how the children will be kept from ending up in the middle of East Silver Street if they are unable to stop at the bottom of the ramp in time. This street is considerably busier than most people realize. Some may ask, “Why not just go directly to Mayor Knapik with our concerns, as he lives only a few houses down from the spot where the access ramp would be built?” The answer to that is simple. He is far enough away so as not to be affected by the increase in noise levels that the abutters will have to deal with (now that all the trees have been cut down), nor will he see his property values decrease. I am sure that any trash that is thrown from the ramp will not end up on his property. The abutters’ privacy will be disturbed, but rest assured, his will not be. The citizens of this neighborhood are not against the bike path going through Westfield, but the plans need to be reworked so as to make sure that public safety is protected. This decision affects not only those people who live near the bike path, but all of the citizens of Westfield and the surrounding communities who plan to use it as a safe form of recreation and exercise. There are other options that the city has available for the access ramp that can be utilized without causing lower property values and lack of privacy to the families who have lived in this neighborhood. If the access ramp is allowed to go through as the plans were presented, there are bound to be injuries from bikers finding themselves in the middle of the street. Hopefully, this will not turn into an “I TOLD YOU SO” moment. How many times do you see an ex-con or a formerly convicted felon involved in a mass killing? Can you think of any? More often than not, the mass murderer is someone who has never been convicted of a serious crime or someone who has served in the military. Think about that. There is more of a chance someone gone wacko will come down from Barnes, Westover, or back from Afghanistan and reign hell on the local citizenry than someone being released from prison or the local jail. If you look at the history of mass murderers in the United States, you’ll find this is an actual fact. Yes, about the Notre Dame and North Elm Street problems. There has been problems there for years but we don’t get much work done in this area. Most of it is in Boston or up as far as Worcester. But I got a kick out of it. The work is going to be done, the same as the Drug Store Hill Bridge on Pochassic Street there. How long has that been going on? If they take that long or longer to do Notre Dame Street you might was well just forget the bus route. They’re going to have to go up Clay Hill and all the way around the other way. Thank you. Continue the conversation http://thewestfieldnews.com/pulseline-form

Recent Poll:

Uninsured drops in key states By Lucy McCalmont Politico.com States that have expanded Medicaid and opened their own exchanges have seen a higher rate of decline in the number of uninsured, compared to other states, a new poll show. The 21 states and the District of Columbia, which have done both, saw an average decline in uninsured of 2.5 percent, according to a poll released Wednesday by Gallup. The other 29 states that didn’t enact both measure had a dip in uninsured of less than 1 percent on average. The number of Americans who reported that they were uninsured has also dropped to 15.6 percent from 17.3 percent in 2013. The uninsured rate hit a high of 18 percent in the third quarter of 2013—ahead of the opening of exchanges. The pollster notes that the states that chose to implement both measures already had lower uninsured rates to begin with. But the gap in uninsured rates between states that expanded Medicaid and set up their own exchange to those that have done one or neither has grown 4.3 percentage points in the most recent quarter. The poll’s 2013 data was collected from Jan. 2 toDec. 29, 2013 and surveyed 178,068 respondents and has a margin of error of plus or minus 0.3 percentage points. The poll’s 2014 data was collected from Jan. 2 to March 31 and surveyed 43,562 respondents and has a margin of error of plus or minus 0.6 percentage points.

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COMMENT

Letter to the Editor We would like to bring attention to a caring group of workers from C&S Wholesale in Westfield, MA. These workers went above and beyond fundraising for our son’s team, Drew’s Doose Dragons, in the Epilepsy walk on Sunday April 13th. A loving friend who works for C&S, Chris Bernier shared our story. Even though they had not met 5 yr old Andrew, who started having seizures 2 years ago. They raised along with their company matching donations $2500. The struggle of a seizure free and healthy quality of life is a hard one. We walk and advocate for this cause with HOPE that a cure will be found. With our hearts full of thanks! Amy Daudelin and Tony Palazzi

Why Unmarried Women are the key to 2014 By STANLEY GREENBERG and ERICA SEIFERT Politico.com Last week, Washington discovered unmarried women. As pollsters who have been studying this group of voters for years, we say: Welcome to the party. Admittedly, it’s an unusual way to slice the American electorate. After all, it’s not like widows, divorcées and single women in their 20s think of themselves as a group, as a unique voting bloc or even call themselves “unmarried women.” They are more likely to call themselves “working women.” But marital status is one of the strongest predictors of whether a person will vote and for which party, which is why so many progressives and Democrats are paying attention now. A majority of American households are now unmarried, and nearly a quarter of the presidential-year electorate were unmarried women. But marriage is now politicized too. Nearly 60 percent of those who call themselves Republicans are married and three-quarters of the conservative Republican base are married. By contrast, two-thirds of unmarried women voted for Barack Obama and Democrats for Congress in 2012; two-thirds voted for Terry McAuliffe for Virginia governor in 2013. But if you want to know why unmarried women are now the focus, it is not because they are assuredly Democrats, or even assuredly voters. In an off-year election, and when so many are struggling economically, unmarried women are no guarantee at the polls. In Virginia, unmarried women voted heavily Democratic, but their modest turnout took their vote share down from 4 years earlier in the state elections. In our most recent national survey, just two-thirds of unmarried women who voted in 2012 said they were almost certain to vote in November, and 10.5 million unmarried women who voted in 2012 are project to stay home in November. And in our latest poll done for NPR – conducted jointly by Democracy Corps and Resurgent Republic – the Democrats were ahead by 1 point in the generic congressional ballot (44 to 43 percent), but unmarried women gave Democrats 58 percent of their votes. That sounds high, but it is nearly 10 points below what we would see in a presidential-year election, suggesting that Democrats have some work to do. So, if you are a Democrat and want to change your electoral fortunes in November, unmarried women are the biggest and best opportunity. Right now, these are votes on the table—pity the Democrat who would leave them there in November. What unmarried women (widows, never-marrieds and divorcées) share—and what makes them lean so heavily for Democrats—is being on their own, vulnerable economically, at a time when jobs that pay enough to live on are very scarce. That is the main finding of the research we have conducted over the last couple of years. For most Americans, the economy is a challenge every day. It’s a challenge at the grocery store, the day care and the gas pump. It’s a challenge to pay rent, afford education or take time off for work to care for sick children. In focus groups our participants tell us that jobs don’t pay enough anymore so they have multiple jobs to make up the difference. Or they save money by sharing intergenerational housing (i.e. living with their parents, a trend that became increasingly uncommon through the twentieth century and now has become much more common again). They make big cuts at the grocery store. They postpone retirement—or work in post-retirement jobs. And for the 25 percent of unmarried women with children under 18 living at home—the median income is just $23,000 and 82 percent do not have a college degree – the economy is particularly tough. They are pretty sure that women get less pay than men and face huge obstacles getting ahead. You might assume that unmarried women are the main target for Democrats in 2014 because they are pro-choice, pro-birth control and pro-women’s health. While it’s true—these women are pro-choice—our research shows that what motivates them to vote are economic issues, particularly those that affect working women and mothers. In Virginia, much of the Democrats’ advertising was focused on abortion and contraception and no doubt increased Democratic support, but it did not raise turnout among unmarried women. Unmarried women want leaders who understand their lives and address issues that matter for them. When we first started this work a year ago, we learned that unmarried women—more than almost any other group—did not feel like the national political debates were addressing the issues important to them. This is so critical to whether they will vote or not: They still need to see that they have a stake in this election. With women Democratic leaders in the House and the U.S. Senate taking the lead, we began to examine the surprising impact of focusing like a laser on the economy and advancing

an economic agenda for working women. This agenda is popular among all voters, but it is especially powerful among unmarried women. Hearing that agenda increased the support for a Democratic candidate on our surveys, but much more important, it greatly increased their likelihood of voting. Four essential pieces of the working women’s agenda had the highest level of support and increased turnout on our survey: 1. Equal pay: Helping women with better pay by making sure women get equal pay for equal work and making sure insurance companies no longer charge women more than men. Unmarried women believe they struggle to earn enough and ending paycheck discrimination allows women to get better pay and ending insurance discrimination means women will not pay more for health care. This is a very tangible economic agenda that gets the attention of unmarried women more than any other. 2. Help for working mothers: Finally recognizing that working mothers need help and offering a group of policies that can make a difference – ending discrimination against pregnant workers and new mothers, providing paid leave so people can care for children and families and expanding access to affordable childcare. 3. Raising the minimum wage: Helping working women get to better wages and better jobs by raising the minimum wage to $10.10 and expanding access to scholarships and get school costs down. This recognizes unmarried women’s very real struggle with pay and offers affordable training and education to get jobs that pay better in the future. 4. Safeguarding benefits: Protecting Medicare to ensure there is no reduction in benefits and protect Social Security so seniors can retire at a reasonable age. These policies recognize that retirement security is critical for unmarried women—a portion of whom are older women and widows. This agenda works. It increases unmarried women’s likelihood to vote and increases the chance that they will vote for Democrats. In our surveys, after hearing this agenda and also the best policies and messages from Republicans, the twothirds of unmarried women who say they were almost certain to vote increases to 83 percent. That math could make the difference in November. These are numbers, but they are also common sense, which is why we have seen more focus on unmarried women and more focus on an economic agenda that will get the attention of working women and make a difference in their lives. It starts with understanding how our country is changing, but also being deeply alert to how much a struggle it is for so many families. If unmarried women are front and center, it may force both parties compete to fashion modern work and family policies that bring the kind of economic changes unmarried women deserve. Stanley Greenberg has served as polling adviser to presidents and prime ministers, CEOs and dozens of campaigns in the United States and around the world. He is co-founder, with James Carville, of Democracy Corps and the author most recently of It’s the Middle Class, Stupid! Erica Seifert is senior associate at Greenberg Quinlan Rosner, where she is the lead analyst for Democracy Corps. She is most recently the author of The Politics of Authenticity in Presidential Campaigns, a history of recent U.S. political culture, American self-representation and political media.

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Southampton Road Elementary School

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014 - PAGE 5

Obituaries Dennis E. Day

Members of the Southampton Road Elementary School fourth and fifth-grade chorus sing “Seasons of Love” during yesterday’s spring concert A Broadway Review in the school auditorium. The one-hour concert was part of a school-wide event. (Photo by Frederick Gore)

A Broadway Review

Sam MacMunn performs a piano solo while singing “Edelweiss.” (Photo by Frederick Gore)

Erin Gour, Bethany White and Ryan Beattie perform “Castle in the Cloud” during yesterday’s spring concert at Southampton Road Elementary School. (Photo by Frederick Gore)

Students from the second-grade of Southampton Road Elementary School take stage for the song “It’s a Hard Life” with speaking parts by students, Lindsey Deland and Ariana Mikhaylichenko during a spring concert at the school Tuesday. (Photo by Frederick Gore)

SOUTHWICK - Dennis E. Day, age 77, of Southwick, Massachusetts passed away in the company of loved ones in Punta Gorda, Florida on April 8, 2014 after a lengthy, but courageous, battle with cancer. Dennis was born May 23, 1936 in Waterville, Maine to Earl L. and Abbie (Bagley) Day. He graduated from Portsmouth, New Hampshire High School and shortly after moved to Buzzards Bay, MA where he operated the Speedway gas station for many years. In 1984 he began work as a campus police officer for Massachusetts Maritime Academy, from where he retired after 15 years of dedicated service. In 1999 Dennis relocated to Southwick, Massachusetts where he spent many happy hours with his family and grandchildren. His favorite activities included traveling, watching and feeding all of the birds in the neighborhood, and working in his yard. Dennis was a faithful member of the Southwick Congregational Church, and a devoted supporter of the Southwick Fire Department. He also wintered in Punta Gorda, Florida where he met and enjoyed many new friends. He was loved by all. Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 54 years, Barbara and two sons, Dennis Jr. and his wife Melissa of Southwick and Steven Day. Dennis leaves five grandchildren, Shannon and Melanie of Southwick, Stephanie of Florida and Nicholas and David of Argentina. He also leaves two sisters, Lorraine Casey of South China, Maine and Elaine Kay of Portland, Oregon along with many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at the Southwick Congregational Church of Southwick, MA on Sunday, April 27, 2014 at 1:30 p.m.. Memorial donations may be made to Southwick Congregational Church, Box 260, Southwick, MA 01077.

Joseph A. Walsh AGAWAM – Joseph A. Walsh, 53, a resident of Agawam, died early Friday morning, April 11, 2014 at Heritage Hall South. He was born in Westfield, raised and educated in Southwick, a son of the late Joseph E. and Marilyn (Brown) Walsh. Joe was previously employed for several years as a fork lift operator with Hood Ice Cream Corporation of Suffield. Joe was a free spirit who lived life on his own terms. He was a hard worker, an honest man who loved working on his cars, riding in his boat, enjoyed the outdoors, and loved nature and trees. He was a wonderful friend to many and did whatever he could to put smiles on his children’s faces. He loved fiercely. He lived his life to the fullest and will be missed. He leaves two loving children, Kathleen R. Walsh of Chicopee, and Joseph R. Walsh of Springfield; the love of his life, Marie Woodell Mathes of Agawam; four siblings, Linda J. Nicholson and her husband David of Southwick, Jim A. Walsh and his wife Ellen of West Boylston, Susan L. Walsh and her longtime companion Frank Phillips of Granby, CT, and Lauren E. Walsh Cruz and her husband Joe of North Grafton; his former wife, Gabrielle Collins of Westfield; and his former longtime companion and mother of his son Joseph, Heather Pirnie of Springfield; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. His funeral will be private and at the convenience of his family with burial in the Walsh family lot in New Cemetery in Southwick. There will be no calling hours. Memorial contributions in Joe’s memory may be directed to the American Diabetes Association, 2080 Silas Deane Highway, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067. Arrangements are by the Southwick Forastiere Funeral Home, 624 College Highway, Southwick. For more information please visit www.forastierefuneralhome.com

LOST AND FOUND

Lost:11-year old “Zoe Wright”, missing since 3-22-14 ... Westfield. Please call 824-9035. Found: South Maple Street-set of keys with coins attached on key ring. Call 562-6559. (2/27/14)

Southampton Road Elementary School first-grade students perform “Do, Re, Mi” during a spring concert featuring A Broadway Review which featured songs from Grease, Rent, The Sound of Music, Hairspray, Wicked, The Musical Annie and Les Miserables. A solo performance was also presented by Jaylen Alcime. (Photo by Frederick Gore)

Wildwater Races Continued from Page 2 being available for release and could be can- website at: celled during low flow or high flow events, or http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/ storm events. Recreation/LittlevilleLake.aspx. Littleville Lake, on the Middle Branch of the The Westfield River Canoe Club will hold Westfield River in Huntington and Chester, is their Westfield River Wildwater Race on 1,360 feet long, 164 feet high and cost $6.8 mil- Saturday, with the awards ceremony being held lion to construct. The reservoir can hold a at Strathmore Park in Russell. Both the novice 23,000-acre-foot pool or 7.5 billion-gallons. It and expert races will be held on the same day. has prevented flood damages of $151.5 million Registration for the novice race will open at 8 ($223.7 million adjusted for inflation) since it a.m., with the race starting at 10 a.m. at the was placed in operation in 1965. The reservoir DPW yard (below the green bridge) in area offers many recreational opportunities Huntington. The expert registration will open at including picnicking, fishing, hunting, canoe- noon, with the race beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the ing, boating, nature study and cross country base of the Knightville Dam (off Route 112). skiing and snowmobiling (on marked trails) in For more information you can visit the website season, and attracts more than 39,000 visitors at www.westfieldriverraces.com or contact us annually. by email at paddling4fun@gmail.com or by For details on Littleville Lake call the Park phone at (413) 636-2397. Registration forms Ranger stafff at (413) 667-3656 or visit the are available to download from the website.

Zoe Wright

$100. REWARD. LOST: BRACELET, black leather and silver on 12/5/13. Vicinity Westfield Shops parking lot possibly Friendly’s, Big Y areas. (508)6857949.

PAGE 6 - WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014

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FOODTRAVEL

Easter dinner An easy meal to entertain family and friends

Roast Leg Of Lamb

Easter Pineapple Sour Cream Pie

Yields 8-10 servings

From Sophie’s Kitchen

4 pound leg of lamb boned, rolled & tied 1 lemon cut in half 1 (10 oz.) jar of mint jelly 1 tablespoon powdered ginger 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 can beef consomme’ On the day before roasting remove excess fat from lamb and cut roast in several places.Rinse well and rub with lemon. Mix jelly with seasonings. Place marinade in a large zip-lock bag and put roast in bag. Refrigerate overnight turning occasionally. Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Roast lamb 30-35 minutes per pound,basting occasionally. Pour off fat drippings and mix with consomme’. Serve au jus. Note: Roast and sauce will be a dark brown.

Belgian Endive Salad 1 pound Belgian Endive 4 tablespoons Gorgonzola cheese 6 tablespoons plain yogurt 2 tablespoons brandy Pinch of cayenne pepper

1 package (5 1/2) instant vanilla pudding 2 cups sour cream 1/2 cup chopped nuts 1- 9 inch graham cracker crust 1 can (8 oz.) crushed pineapple 1 tablespoon sugar whipped topping Combine instant pudding mix with pineapple and its juice, sour cream and sugar. Beat slowly with electric beater on slow speed for one minute. Add nuts and pour into pie shell. Chill for at least 3 hours. Garnish with frozen whipped topping or whipped heavy cream.

Honey Orange Ham Glaze From Dad’s Kitchen 1/4 cup honey 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup orange juice dash of ground cloves or stud with whole cloves (optional)

Mustard Sauce for Ham

To make a glaze mix ingredients together. Bake your ham at 325 following attached directions for poundage. when done remove from oven and score in diamond shapes. spread on glaze and return to a 450 degree oven. Bake until brown.

Trim wash and dry endive leaves. Slice leaves in half lengthwise and arrange on salad plates. In a small bowl using a fork ,mash cheese and yogurt well. Add brandy and cayenne pepper. To serve spoon dressing over endive leaves. Serves 4

1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup water 1 tablespoon butter 1 egg, beaten 1 bouillon cube- chicken or beef 1/4 cup vinegar 1 tablespoon brown mustard Cook sugar,mustard,vinegar,water,bouillon cube and butter stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Add hot mixture to egg a little at a time then return to pan. Cook a few minutes more until thick.

Gingered Carrots Serves 4

Garden Stuffed Baked Potatoes Serves 4 Note: Preheat oven to 425 degrees

4 russet potatoes 2 tablespoons butter 1 small onion chopped 1 (10 ounce) package chopped broccoli, thawed and drained 1/2 cup ranch salad dressing 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 teaspoons dried parsley salt & pepper Bake potatoes in oven for 20 minutes- or microwave for 12 minutes Slice off potato tops. Scoop out pulp keeping skins intact. Mash pulp in a medium bowl. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add butter. Add onion,broccoli and salad dressing to potato pulp and mix well. Brush outside of potato skins with oil. Spoon potato mixture into shells,dividing evenly. Place on a baking sheet. bake potatoes until heated thoroughly(about 15 minutes). Sprinkle with salt & pepper and parsley to taste.

7-8 carrots 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 cup orange juice 2 tablespoons butter chopped parsley Cut carrots on the bias so that slices will be about 1/4 inch thick. Cooked, covered in boiling salted water until tender. ( about 8-10 minutes). Combine sugar, salt, cornstarch and ginger in a small saucepan. Add orange juice and cook stirring constantly until mixture thickens and bubbles. Boil for one minute and then stir in butter. Pour over hot carrots and toss. Add chopped parsley to garnish.

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Gateway Superintendent’s Corner PARCC – the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers— involves a consortium of 19 states and has the potential to replace the current MCAS tests. While the assessment protocol includes a number of tests, the current understanding is there will be two tests if Massachusetts adopts PARCC: the Performance Based Assessment (or PBA) and the End of year Assessment (or EOY) in English Language Arts and Mathematics. We’re told that there are compelling reasons for potentially switching from MCAS to PARCC – a test that’s more closely aligned to the new Common Core Curriculum standards, a broader base of students across the U.S. to compare student performance with, a quicker turn-around time from testing to getting the test results (due to the tests being computer-based), and financial sav- Dr. David Hopson ings over the Commonwealth having to develop their own new test. PARCC has an FAQ page with more details at https://www.parcconline.org/sites/parcc/files/PARCCFAQ_9-18-2013.pdf. As part of the development process, students across the PARCC states were chosen to ‘pilot’ the tests. These pilot tests returned no scores to the students, the school, or the district; did not involve receiving any additional financial resources to run the tests; and do not count towards determining student performance this year. The positive aspects were the experience in preparing equipment, students, and staff to pilot the test with a small group of students in advance of the potential rollout across grades 3-8 in the 2014-2015 school year. Gateway successfully completed ‘piloting’ the Performance Based Assessment (PBA) for mathematics with a small group of students taking the test on computers (there were some schools that piloted the test not using computers). In preparing for, and completing, this pilot test we noted a number of issues that we’ll have to address if the state moves in this direction. One issue is finding, acquiring, and preparing enough computers (laptops, desktops, tablets) that meet the testing requirements for a much larger group of students. What we’ve found is that about 50% of our computers, which are only a few years old, cannot be used for PARCC testing. In addition, each computer has to be reimaged for the test, and then returned to the original image for use in the classroom, which was a time consuming process. Another issue is ensuring enough bandwidth within the schools for testing numerous students at the same time, especially using a wireless network. Related to this is a need for additional time to train staff and students on using computers to take these tests, which are significantly different from our current computer-based assessments. Another challenge of switching to PARCC, which requires more higher-level thinking skills and involves much more reading, interpreting, and creating answers (including pulling relevant information from a number of provided resources, without having the ability to have multiple documents in front of you at one time) is that this is far from what is routinely done in the classroom. While I think this is a move in the right direction, the lack of resources (including time and money) to prepare for such a significant change and the failure to move beyond primarily testing knowledge (and leaving out many of the skills that are in demand in the marketplace) seems shortsighted. As citizens in the new ‘digital’ society, many of our students are very good at using a wide range of electronic resources to complete work, but these are denied to them while taking these tests. This is a little like testing students on driving a horse and buggy to determine if they’re eligible to get a license to drive a car.

Boat Patrol Continued from Page 1 it, it would certainly suit our purposes.” He also said that he has consulted the state police to consider jurisdictional concerns and reported to the commissioners that the colonel of the state police has assured him that the city’s department would be given “concurrent jurisdiction” to give boat patrol officer authority to work on any part of the ponds. With the support of the commission, Camerota said that he will prepare a proposal for the mayor and city council seeking their support too. He said that the city department is in the process of getting information from Southwick police, who operate a patrol on the Congamond Lakes, about the rules, regulations and training necessary for officers staffing a boat patrol and said that once that information is received and evaluated a plan will be formulated suitable for operations on the Hampton Ponds by city officers.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014 - PAGE 7

Plastics Continued from Page 1 manipulate plastics.’ something going on, some environmenMcEwan said that while the plastic tal factor.” industry is regulated by the state and Resident Mary Ann Babinski said federal governments, which issue per- residents of the city share those conmits for emissions, without a special cerns about potential negative environpermit process “there is no local con- mental effects of a plastic ejection or trol, no opportunity for residents to molding process. voice concerns. I’m in favor of chang“Those are our concerns, too,” ing the ordinance to allow this use, but I Babinski said. “Communities are spendthink there has to be some review pro- ing time and money to ban the use of cess.” plastic, especially disposable bottles Board members Carl Vincent and which are not environmentally friendly. Jane Magarian both said they are con- There are some very hazardous chemicerned about possible environmental cals that go into the manufacturing of impacts. plastic, especially for women. “I have a problem about how it effects “I hope this board takes the time to do the environment without any permitting research,” Babinski said. “I’d want to process,” Vincent said. have a lot more information before I Magarian, a teacher in the city’s made this zone change.” school district, noted the “astronomical Jean Carpenter agreed, saying that increase” in the number of children there are “too many toxins in plastic.” diagnosed with autism in recent years. “We don’t know how much emissions “Two or three years ago, one in 200 will be produced (during plastic product children were found to have some form manufacturing),” Carpenter said. “We of autism. Now that number is down to have enough pollution. We don’t need one in 50,” Magarian said. “There’s any more. We don’t want it.”

PAGE 8 - WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014

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THE WESTFIELD NEWS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014 - PAGE 9

WWW.THEWESTFIELDNEWS.COM/SPORTS

THE WESTFIELD NEWSSPORTS

Westfield Little League Opening Day Westfield Little League celebrated Opening Day in the Whip City in grand fashion with a parade through the city streets and ballgames at local fields this past weekend. (Photos courtesy of Janine Queenin)

Laraway signed to Assumption EASTHAMPTON – “If you’re not outlined in chalk, you’re fine to play” is the motto by which Catie Laraway has played field hockey her entire career at the Williston Northampton School. That kind of toughness and dedication resulted in some broken front teeth (since repaired) and a knee that her coach, Logan Brown, thinks somehow has two kneecaps. It has also resulted in the Westfield native setting a new career goals record at Williston with 85 goals scored, solidly breaking the previous record of 60. She also set a new record for goals in a single season, with 38 this season, 10 over the previous record. Following the fall season, Laraway was voted the Wildcats Most Valuable Player for the second year in a row. In addition, she was named to the Western

As she leaves Williston, Laraway took a moment to reflect on her career as a Wildcat. She remembered this year’s Northfield Mount Hermon game during which she scored her 85th goal as a highlight. “It was awesome, and they gave me the game ball,” she said. “It was an accomplishment I worked hard for over four years on varsity field hockey.” Varsity field hockey coach Logan Brown added, “Catie will be remembered for her grit and determination. She always worked hard in practice, showed incredible toughness, and was one of the most aggressive players I have ever encountered. When she puts her game face on—watch out—she is unstoppable. I am confident that she will add a lot to Assumption’s program next year.”

Catie Laraway, of Westfield signs her letter of intent to attend Assumption College to play field hockey. Laraway is currently attending Williston-Northampton Prep School. (Submitted photo)

More LOCAL SPORTS photos available at ...

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New England All-Star Team and to the New England Prep School Athletic Conference (NEPSAC) Class B AllTournament Team. Those accomplishments led Laraway to sign a letter of intent to play Division II field hockey next year at Assumption College (Worcester, MA), a member of the Northeast-10 Conference. She chose the school because of Coach Annie Lahey and her belief that she would be a good fit for the Greyhounds. Athletic Director Mark Conroy praised Laraway’s achievements. “In a program with such a rich tradition,” Conroy said. “Catie’s accomplishments were truly outstanding. It is more than coincidence that all four of her teams won the Class B Western New England championship while qualifying for the very selective NEPSAC tournament.”

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PAGE 10 - WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, 2014

THE WESTFIELD NEWS

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS SCHEDULES WEDNESDAY April 16

THURSDAY April 17

FRIDAY April 18

SATURDAY APRIL 19

MONDAY April 21

TUESDAY April 22

WESTFIELD HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS’ V TENNIS at Amherst, Amherst Regional Middle School, 4 p.m. BASEBALL vs. Minnechaug, Bullens Field, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL vs. Minnechaug, WHS, 4 p.m. BOYS’ V LACROSSE vs. Agawam, 4 p.m. BOYS’ JV LACROSSE vs. Agawam, 4 p.m. SOFTBALL at Pittsfield, Doyle Field, 4:30 p.m. JV SOFTBALL at Pittsfield, 4:30 p.m. GIRLS’ JV LACROSSE at East Longmeadow, 5:30 p.m. GIRLS’ V LACROSSE at East Longmeadow, 7 p.m.

BASEBALL vs. Central, Bullens Field, 4 p.m. BOYS’ V TENNIS vs. Sabis, 4 p.m. SOFTBALL at Holyoke, John Young Softball Field, 4 p.m. JV SOFTBALL at Holyoke, Crosier Field, 4 p.m. GIRLS’ V TRACK & FIELD at Holyoke, Roberts Sports Complex, 4 p.m.

No Sports Scheduled

GIRLS’ V TENNIS vs. Holyoke, 1 p.m. BASEBALL at Cathedral, Forest Park, 4 p.m. GIRLS’ JV LACROSSE vs. Minnechaug, 4 p.m. GIRLS’ V LACROSSE vs. Minnechaug, 5:30 p.m.

BOYS’ V TRACK & FIELD vs. Central, Westfield State University, 10 a.m. BOYS’ V LACROSSE at East Longmeadow, noon BOYS’ V TENNIS vs. Holyoke, 1 p.m. BOYS’ JV LACROSSE at East Longmeadow, 1:30 p.m.

BASEBALL at Hampshire, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL at Hampshire, 4 p.m.

BASEBALL vs. Palmer, 4 p.m. SOFTBALL at Central, Blunt Park, 11 a.m. JV SOFTBALL at Central, Blunt Park, 11 a.m.

SOUTHWICK-TOLLAND REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL vs. Monson, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL vs. Monson, 4 p.m. SOFTBALL vs. McCann Tech, 4 p.m.

SOFTBALL vs. Holyoke Catholic, 4 p.m. JV SOFTBALL vs. Holyoke Catholic, 4 p.m.

BASEBALL at Sabis, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL at Sabis, 4 p.m.

SOFTBALL at Palmer, 4 p.m.

No Sports Scheduled

GATEWAY REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL vs. St. Mary’s, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL vs. St. Mary’s, 4 p.m. SOFTBALL at Granby, 4 p.m.

No Sports Scheduled

SAINT MARY HIGH SCHOOL BOYS’ LACROSSE at Granby, 4 p.m.

BASEBALL vs. Holyoke Catholic, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL vs. Holyoke Catholic, Westfield Middle School South, 4 p.m. GIRLS’ TENNIS at Palmer, 4 p.m.

BASEBALL at Gateway, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL at Gateway, 4 p.m. BOYS’ TENNIS vs. Greenfield, Municipal Tennis Courts, 4 p.m.

No Sports Scheduled

WESTFIELD VOCATIONAL-TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL at Commerce, Marshall Roy, 4 p.m.

BASEBALL vs. Pioneer Valley Christian School, Bullens Field, 4 p.m. SOFTBALL vs. Putnam, Whitney Field, 4 p.m.

SOFTBALL at Dean Tech, 11 a.m. BASEBALL vs. McCann Tech, Bullens Field, 4 p.m. JV BASEBALL vs. McCann Tech, Jachym Field, 4 p.m.

No Sports Scheduled

WESTFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY SCHEDULES Westfield State 2014 Baseball Schedule

Men’s Golf 2014 Spring Schedule Day DATE OPPONENT TIME April 17 Western New England University Invitational Thursday Veterans Memorial Golf 10:00 Course, Springfield Monday April 21 Assumption College Invitational Heritage Country Club, 10:00 Charlton, Mass. Tuesday April 22 Elms College Invitational Westover Country Club, Granby, Mass. 10:00

Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track and Field DAY DATE OPPONENT

Place

Saturday

Day DATE OPPONENT

TIME

Wednesday

April 16

WESTERN NEW ENGLAND