Pine Cone Johnny

Surviving to tell the tale

2012-01-24T13:29:00.000-08:00

A nice mild winter day had me thinking of walking up a mountain. Mount Holyoke is close by. Let's go!

Started out on Mountain Road and Rt. 47 in Hockanum, Hadley.

This house on Mountain Road is certainly a "fixer upper." Doesn't look like there is any electricity connected. That's a plus for me.

One room schoolhouse across the street.

Got to this point from the road. Hmm. Should I take the trail or continue up the road?

Trail!

How bad can it be?

Well, turned out pretty bad. I was able to get past a pretty icy stretch only to turn the corner on a very precarious situation. Solid ice with water flowing over, a pretty steep grade and no footing on the left or right for about 50 ft. There was no turning back. Yikes! Take it slow, I kept telling myself.

Finally arrive on the south side, where the ice and snow were pretty much gone.

Author thankful to be able to tell the tale.

Not a big climb, but with that icy stretch, it took me a long time.

Views are still closed from the deck.

Deck and the structure beneath seem to be getting worse.

Isn't there some kind of grant the DCR can turn to for restoration help?

Skinner park.

In memory of those who fell here. On May 27, 1944 a U.S. Army Air Force B24-J from Westover crashed on Mount Holyoke. This memorial is dedicated to the crew who died.

View north east toward UMass.

A nice place to have a snack.

Looking north toward Northampton.

Time to go back. I think I'll take the road down.

Mini snowman on a post. He looks to be praying for colder weather.

Back to the bottom to check out items at the lost and found. Scarf, hat and lip gloss.

Missed Exit

2012-01-16T17:11:00.001-08:00

Not sure of the model. Found in a patch of woods around Holyoke/Northampton between I-91 and Rt. 5.

Know Your Town: South Hadley Falls

2012-01-16T11:07:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things we like about South Hadley Falls:

Stop & Go Convenience Store, Bardwell St.

I've never bought a sandwich here but I'm sure they're good. A good place to buy cigarettes. And they have the spiciest Slim Jims in town, I've heard.

Stoney's Pub, 1 Bridge St.

Good location for me to walk home. Thursday night is Steak and Bake night. Review from Josh on Foursquare: Paper City beer is delish :)

South Hadley Public Library, Bardwell St.

Great movie selection. This weeks picks: The Trials of Henry Kissinger; Freakonomics and Who Killed the Electric Car.

El Guanaco, Bridge St.

Great Mexican and El Salvadorian food. Be sure to stop in on Tuesdays for $5 chicken burritos.

South Hadley Falls Canal Park.

Great view of the Connecticut River and Mt. Tom. And there is some history here.

View from the platform overlooking the Connecticut River. It's certainly getting colder!

Beachgrounds Park, Main St.

Very nice spray park for the kids. Also swings, baseball fields and a basketball court.

Author enjoying the wading pool at the Beachgrounds in 1970. Lifeguards used to hand out red rubber balls. Which was awesome!

On the Town: Easthampton, Mass.

2012-01-15T17:42:00.000-08:00

Peter Pan Cafe on Pleasant St.

Here is a review from yelp.com:

Great for a collegiate sociological study of depressive group behavior...Awful for anything else...

And from a story last year by my friend brian steele:

That morning, officers were called to Peter Pan at 2 a.m. and found a man on the sidewalk with a stab wound to his arm. He had been assaulted elsewhere and called police from the bar, the only open business on the street at the time, McMahon said.

Searle Ave.

our great friend graeme on the road at home.

2012-01-13T21:44:00.000-08:00

we like him.

Visit PCJ on Facebook!

2012-01-12T21:12:00.000-08:00

Hope to see you soon!

A visit to Noble View Outdoor Center

2012-01-10T13:32:00.000-08:00

Taking the advice of friends I set out to Russell to visit Noble View, which is part of the Appalachian Mountain Club. The mountaintop, around 1,100 ft., boasts great views of the Pioneer Valley east to Mount Wachusett. The trails are very well marked and pass through several abandoned farm fields. There are also gurgling brooks, old cellar holes and stonewalls along the way. Camping is available and there are also modernized cottages for rent.

There are several cottages available. All with great views of the Valley.

Have a rest on an old tractor seat.

Hazy view of downtown Springfield.

North cottage.

Bath house.

Water pump outside Albert Noble house.

Looks like some old stove parts.

I started out down Laurel Lane on the way down to Pitcher Brook.

Trails are nicely marked. Maps are available.

Ashley Cellar Hole.

Decided to take a left, cross the brook and head around Border trail.

Vernal pool.

Lots of leaves made the trail hard to see. But the route was easy to navigate by following the yellow marks.

By checking the map I could see Spring Trail would take me right back up to Noble View. It was only 1/3 of a mile, but a challenging climb.

Finally! Made it to the top.

Entrance to Spring Trail.

Gowdy Cellar Hole.

View to the east toward Springfield.

The cottages.

Albert Noble House built in 1831.

A tired, hungry hiker! Maybe I'll come to snowshoe later this winter. And camp in the spring.

Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.

2012-01-01T21:22:00.000-08:00

As we look forward to a new year PCJ would like to acknowledge staff, family, friends and benefactors that made 2011 one of our most successful years. Although we’ve struggled through many changes and challenges we feel the support, dedication and loyalty of these folks was instrumental for our growth as an organization and we will depend on each of them in the coming year to make 2012 the best year ever. Congratulations to all!

Spud

Trish w/ Jay

Reaghan

Mike

Michael w/ author

Meir

Matt

Justine w/ Mike

Judy

Jude

Jim

Jay

Isobel

Hench

Bella

Becca

Audrey

Amber

Alexis

Places we like

2012-01-01T17:42:00.000-08:00

Here are some places that we like to visit:

Talcott greenhouse at Mount Holyoke College. Lots of tropical plants and flowers inside. My glasses fog up when visiting in the winter.

Visitor sits on a nice bench inside the greenhouse and drinks in the moist air.

Summit of Mount Tom in Holyoke, Mass. The star, dressed with light bulbs, gives off a bright, seasonal winter glow for the residents of Easthampton. If I removed one of the bulbs, would anyone below notice? Probably not.

Western view atop Mount Tom. I live near the bridge on the left side of the river. I can see the towers from my bedroom window.

1958 flashback.

2011-08-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

canal st. south hadley falls.

captions lifted from scrapbook.

me. taken day after prom.

bunny, me. linelda, girl from upstairs.

me.

seen at quabbin

2011-08-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

a 1939 lincoln zypher driven by some nice folks from spencer.

Observations and beliefs

2011-07-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

a new feature showcasing transcripts of real-life conversations of pcj staff members, reader and staff observations and area news and views.

(remote control device affixed to telephone pole, canal rd., south hadley)

from transcript #17 july 27, 2011:

"...it's fun to be busy but some days i'm not. some days, usually my days off, i don't do much. and i don't speak to anyone. not even a grocery clerk. or a neighbor or a postman. nobody. a day without speaking. it's not purposeful. like by some zen design, or way of thinking, or anything. it just happens that way."

-- pcj staffer

if you would like to contribute to our beliefs and observations column, send to: wilhelm.katarzyna@gmail.com

only things we like will be considered.

Can I hunt here?

2011-07-12T18:47:00.000-07:00

This is River Dog Cat.

She is the half sister of River Dog.

While visiting River Dog she sometimes hunts around.

Lots of stuff in here!

River Dog and River Dog Man sure do go for lots of walks. What's the point?

Cemetery Focus

2011-06-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

American traveler reflects on a visit to the World War II Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial in Margraten, the Netherlands.

(Mike, 1993)

He writes:

I think I cried.

I remember that being a significant paradigm shift in my life. I was 22 with my whole life ahead of me. So were most of the dead soldiers at that cemetery. Never forgot that. People take our freedom for granted.

Award Flashback

2011-06-06T21:44:00.001-07:00

Below, photo featuring recipient of the, "I Worked Christmas for the Upteenth Year and no Matter How Slow it Was We Still Didn't Make Deadline Award" for 1996.

Award winner showing the killed page that resulted in blowing lockup on the slowest news day of the year.

"I'm proud to take home this award," said '96 award winner R. Genest. "It makes me feel a little bit closer to being human."

Officials were reluctant to comment on the killed page but released a statement that said, in part, "Sometimes a comma changes the meaning. It's very possible there was liable exposed. Bob might have done the right thing. Time will tell. "

Springfield's 375th Anniversary

2011-05-25T20:57:00.000-07:00

As we celebrate our city's 375th anniversary, PCJ takes a look at some of the city and state staff members that worked tirelessly to make our community a great place to live.

The state's oldest profession, the lifeguard, is featured here in this group photo, a selection from the photo gallery, "the Blunt Park Pool lifeguards of the 1980s."

Thanks for helping us to learn swimming! -- bob genest, a staff member of PCJ, is featured in the upper left.

Factory work is tough.

2011-05-24T22:19:00.000-07:00

Do you think these barrels will move themselves?

Bob knows they won't because he's been told that.

At least 5 times in the last 20 minutes.

It'll get done.

They will be moved.

And this area here should be cleaned up and organized.

There's a lot to get done. We need a plan.

Photos by Bill Kudla.

Area man looks for sneakers

2011-05-19T21:00:00.000-07:00

Bob contributes:

Now that I'm spending time around downtown Springfield I thought I'd go over to the Center Square Mall on Main street and try out some new kicks at the Foot Locker. Check out the new Air Jordans, maybe.

Pretty cool place, I recall. This photo from the Foot Locker at the Center Square Mall, 1986. I hope it's still there!

Here is a rare photo of a salesman in the back room. Hey, he's the official! I wonder if he still works there? We'll see!

Stops along the way

2011-05-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

SAN FRANCISCO -- In the early morning, before a long day as a senior accountant, Jay likes to stop at the warm-up court near the fields along Marina Blvd. to do some pull-ups.

Before any exercise it's important to stretch first. Everyone knows that.

It's also important to know when to breathe.

Is this 50? Smooth. Nice shoes, by the way.

Location of the warm-up court as captured by Google Earth.

We chatted with Jay via email:

PCJ: Why do you do pull-ups?

Jay: Doing pull-ups ensures that my back is strong and I've been doing them for about 23 years. I stopped for about a year and had a coupla bad back strains from golf (upper and lower). Better to keep doing them.

A new column: Heard on the radio

2011-04-21T21:51:00.000-07:00

Hemingway was once prodded to write a story in six words. He wrote: "For sale: baby shoes, never worn." He considered it his best work.

From Robin Young's "Here and Now" from wbur.org.

Staff file photo from Salvation Army Thrift Store, Hadley, Mass.

New feature on PCJ: On the City

2011-03-29T21:16:00.000-07:00

Springfield, Mass. – Killa’s hair studio, 1007 Main St., has closed its doors.

Story at 11:00.

Roads to nowhere

2011-03-24T07:42:00.000-07:00

Old roads are fun to find.

Around the Mountain Park access road in Holyoke, Mass., and behind the Castle Hill apartments (formerly the site of the Kenilworth castle), I discovered a road along a stream.

The road seemed wide enough for pedestrians, or maybe a horse and buggy, but it didn't seem suited for cars. In some places, the metal pipe barrier was still intact.

The road ended around 1/2 mile, blocked by a culvert built in the 60s to carry water under Interstate 91. The highway was built in the 50s, I think. I could have crawled under on the ledge right under the highway. But I thought better of it and turned back.

What a lovely walk this must have been. From rt. 5, folks could take a leisurely stroll through the woods directly up to the park.

The rushing stream originates at Whiting reservoir and flows into the Connecticut river.

Here's a link to the location. The road is unmarked but is easy to find directly behind the office for the apartments. The land is private property but I don't think visitors will draw too much attention.:

http://mapq.st/h0Xjy2

Signs of the times.

2011-03-07T06:31:00.000-08:00

There are some signs that we are evolving as a species and some signs that we are not. You decide:

Atop Mt. Tom. This reminds me of an old Star Trek episode where Kirk is tortured with very high pitched sounds. That's probably different than radio waves, I guess.

Haydenville, Mass. Who fixes this stuff any more? Chuck does, apparently.

Holyoke dam. Please don't run your boat over the dam. Thanks.

South Hadley, Mass. Llamas can bite. Who knew?

Chicopee, Mass. Anyone want a free copy of Awake! or the Watchtower? They are published in 185 different languages.

Chicopee, Mass. I got an A+ in learning how to smoke in school. They don't offer this course any longer, I see.

Springfield, Mass. All we are sayin...

Holyoke, Mass. They have been known to wear dresses, too.

Hadley, Mass. Sorry. The views are closed.

Around Quabbin. All you need...

will work for food.

2011-02-19T23:32:00.000-08:00

(i've always wanted to be an intern, 1989)

NOTEBOOK: If you're a photography intern, always be respectful of everyone. Everyone in the office has something to teach you. Even the guy dumping the waste bins... get to know him.

First priority: learn everyone's names. That will make it easy to approach folks with questions. It's better to say, "Betsy, can you remind me what the shortcut is to get the toolbar on the right side of the image?" Take the time to figure out how to remember that her name is "Betsy".

Another priority is keeping your opinion to yourself. Also, if others are swearing in the office, never join in. Nod or smile when it is appropriate. But try not to swear. Also, if you are able to keep your shirt tucked in, you should do so. If you practice these few simple things you will stand a better chance to survive subsequent programs that have other challenges. Good luck.

Local turkeys look to ways to outsmart hunters

2011-02-16T12:51:00.000-08:00

The International Brotherhood of Turkeys local 223 flocked to their annual meeting today near the Enfield lookout at the Quabbin Reservoir. The agenda was simple. Review casualty numbers generated from the fall hunting season and brainstorm tactics to outsmart hunters in the spring.

(A cold but bright and clear day greeted Pioneer Valley turkeys as they gathered for their annual state-of-the-turkey-union meeting at the Quabbin Reservoir.)

Spokesman, Jake Turkey, a veteran of 4 hunting seasons, says the meetings are simple and to the point. "We're really just looking for ways to outsmart the orangemen, (turkey talk for hunters)." Although Turkey would not reveal actual numbers, he said turkey casualties from hunters have gone down in recent seasons. "We're seeing numbers become increasingly lower," Turkey said. "Although our brains are really small, our members are becoming a bit smarter," he said.

Another reason for the lower numbers may be cheaper turkey calls that are made in China. "The 'made in China' turkey calls have a distinct sound that most of us pick up right away. You humans might say it's like trying to attract a female by using a recording of Don Rickles and Paul Lynde singing Simon and Garfunkle Christmas songs. It just doesn't work," Turkey said.

(Hen thinks twice about crossing)

While casualties from hunters are down, more turkeys are being hit by cars. "People don't know how to drive. Especially in winter. Humans have these big 4-wheel-drive cars and they just run us right down. It's pathetic," said Turkey.

(Hens cross busy intersection around Quabbin)

Just like humans, turkeys have to get from point A to point B. Crosswalks might help with the traffic issue but Turkey said crosswalks are not a cure for common sense. "We have to look both ways before crossing. That might keep the traffic fatalities down," he said.

(Union hens forage before the meeting)

Mountain Park Pavilion Collapses

2011-02-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

The last remaining structure from the original Mountain Park in Holyoke, Mass. collapsed recently. The pavilion was originally built over the foundation of the Stardust ballroom and Tap Room that was leveled by a gas explosion in the early 70s. New owner Eric Suher recently moved the pavilion to make room for a stage area for his new concert venue.

I discovered this today as I snowshoed around the parameter of the park. I couldn't help but wonder if the movement of the pavilion compromised its structural integrity. It is unknown if anyone was injured in the collapse.

Pavilion as it appeared in July 2010.

Winter Links

2011-01-10T17:35:00.000-08:00

I'm fairly certain I've heard of winter golf. But I'm not sure what the rules are. Maybe it doesn't really exist. But I still walk my local course and go over my game. After all, golf is a cerebral sport. Got to keep a leg up on the hacker competition.

Red marker. 100 yards to the pin. I pull out my 9 iron and choke up, since it's a bit downhill. I close my eyes and see green. But reality is a different story.

Nice view of Mt. Tom., but I can't let the scenery distract me. I have a hybrid 2 iron I've been dying to use. Ball is sitting up. This is my chance.

60 degree wedge from here, but I have to be careful. A deep sand trap just to the right.

Uphill lie and 180 to the pin. What would Jack do here? Lay up and chip? I'll go for it.

Cart path. I'll walk.

I'm pretty sure I skulled it into the woods. But not out of bounds, hopefully. Nobody is behind me so I'll take my time and look for my ball.

Dog leg to the right but I'll take my chances with a 4 iron over the trees. Again, uphill, but I think I can make it over as the leaves are mostly gone.

Well, I shot an 84. Pretty respectable given the conditions.

Ice Sounds

2010-12-19T06:45:00.000-08:00

Around the Oxbow along Rt. 5 in Northampton, Mass, the ice begins to take form.

The morning sun creeps over the mountain.

The ice begins to growl as if it is hungry.

Pancakes, anyone?

Fire and Ice

Some say the world will end in fire,

Some say in ice.

From what I've tasted of desire

I hold with those who favor fire.

But if it had to perish twice,

I think I know enough of hate

To say that for destruction ice

Is also great

And would suffice.

-- Robert Frost

Eyebrow Clucking

2010-12-16T21:54:00.000-08:00

Overheard in the living room:

Your eyebrows look different. Have you been getting them done?

"Yes, for the last 6 months. You mean to tell me you've only just noticed?"

I guess. They look good. Even, like. Who's been doing them?

"Miranda."

Doesn't that hurt?

"No, she waxes them."

Oh, that's good.... Can you pass me the remote? Anderson Cooper is on.

-- photos from McCray's farm, South Hadley, Mass.

Urban Walkabout: Chicopee

2010-12-04T13:01:00.000-08:00

I grew up here. It was here I learned to read and write, add and subtract, ride a bike, play soccer, basketball and baseball, learn piano and trumpet and drive a car. It was also here that I learned to smoke and drink beer, fight, kiss girls, manipulate my way through high school and avoid the police. I’ve been away most of my adult life and walking though this city seems strangely foreign to me. The sights and sounds are unrecognizable. The memories seem like something I read in a book or seen in a movie. Like all those things happened to someone else. In some other place.

Let’s take a walk:

Cabot Mill. Just one of the places I never really noticed. The old mills are beautiful artifacts related to the history of the city. Dad says a few German POWs during WWII were housed in these mills. There was also a camp at Westover AFB. Although a good portion of them were taken to upper-state Maine.

Chicopee High School. The absolute worst years of my life were spent here. I nearly didn't graduate because I refused to take gym class. Spending 3 or 4 hours a day after school at baseball or soccer practice was enough exercise for me, I thought. The vice principal thought differently. My cousin, Miss Pula, a gym teacher, saved me. Although I didn't deserve it.

I often played pool here. I got into a fist fight once that spilled out into the street. It was over a girl, of course. When the cops came I got away. I always did.

I scored a few goals here. Our team won the state soccer championship in 1984 against some team from eastern Mass. But our highlight was beating Ludlow in the Western Mass finals.

Szot Park. After snapping this photo a young boy and his dad approached me. "It's decommissioned", the boy said. "So am I", I countered.

The Collegian Court is for sale. Looking through the windows I notice the tables are neatly set, bottles of booze adorn the bar, menus are stacked and waiting, cloth napkins are folded neatly. But the doors are locked.

The old Fisk/Uniroyal tire plant still stands proudly. I recall buying sneakers here. PF Flyers. I guess they made the rubber soles.

I'm sure I bought beer here. I looked old for my age. When I was 15 I looked at least 18. Although the drinking age was 21.

The old Rivoli theater. Saw many movies here. Recently, there was hope that some Russian entrepreneurs would renovate the building and create a night club. Many dreamed of a new Brighton Beach dinner club scene. It never happened.

I always joked with my Mom that she should be careful. She might end up here one day. Those days are coming closer.

Typical 4 floor walk-up in the center of town. I've been to this house many times. But not lately. The clothes lines are a nice, new added feature.

I must have walked past this building dozens of times. But only now do I take time to notice its uniqueness.

The entrepreneurial spirit is always alive here. Bob's bakery: keeping Chicopee nice and happy. And fat.

Author's reflection in the window of Chicopee Savings Bank

Wachusett Mountain State Reservation: The climb and views are great. The beer? Not so much.

2010-11-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

I often notice 12 packs of blueberry beer from Wachusett Brewing Company in the case at my local liquor store and think, "one of these days I’ve got to go up to that mountain."

The CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) built wonderful stone steps along Pine Hill trail which led to the summit. This made the ascent a breeze. I love those guys.

If there is a fire, they'll see it first, probably.

I spoke to a kid who drove up the ski trail on an ATV. He asked me if I wanted a ride down. Although it might have been fun, I politely declined.

View into New Hampshire. I haven’t been to Mt. Monadnock in quite some time. Glad to see it’s still there.

Looking east. The Boston skyline faintly in the distance.

Place to sit and enjoy the view. Looking northeast towards Fitchburg. I snacked on some almonds here.

The visitor’s center had a fire going. It was peaceful to sit and reflect on a nice walk. On the drive home I stopped and bought a mixed 12 pack of Wachusett beer. Thumbs up on the hike. Thumbs down on the beer.

The Iceman Cometh, Ed Asner, zip lines and riding in cars

2010-10-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

(Southampton, Mass.) We drove up to Crooked Ledge rd. to explore an old unmarked road. It's always mid-afternoon when I end up at these places. Who knows what the best light is? Who cares?

Stone walls and foundations. "Look here," I say. "That rock under there? Who knows when the last time it was touched by a human being? 300 years ago? Amazing, right?"

But I only pretend to say it. I keep it to myself and just sigh.

Whispered, I hear, "I think Rob is looking tired, and was he mumbling about being an iceman and how icemen could make a comeback, and you have to capture the opportunity or something. Being an iceman? Do you think Rob looks tired?"

Leave him alone, he's fine, I hear countered. Complemented with a sharp burp.

Brush with fame is the game. Go: Ed Ansner is named. "He was rude at an event I coordinated but later found out he was just bored and messing with me because I was new." Lots of snappy responses, including: appropriate ways of dealing with the Ted Knight laugh, Mary, Betty White. Lots of laughing. Good times.

"Nice cold storage. Drag ice here from the pond. Or put it up on your wagon. Either way you could get it here. If I had a block of ice here in July or August? I could get some syrup and make a fortune..."

I turn and realize I'm talking to myself.

A walk up an old unmarked road wouldn't be complete without an old car. Not sure of the make of this but I'd guess the late 60s or early 70s. First car I drove was a '72 Cadillac.

Has a UMass parking sticker on the bumper. Maybe Tommy Devine rode in the back seat at some point? Hubba hubba!

Turns out this was Edwards Rd., which lead into a residential neighborhood.

Trail description:

Rocky and can develop into a small stream after a decent rainstorm. 90 mins up and back to car. No dramatic incline. A zip line was discovered (below).

Trees of Peace: Mohawk Trail State Forest

2010-10-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

The weather forecast indicated clear skies. But we ended up sitting in the car for about 45 minutes waiting for a snow squall to pass. Although it was late in the afternoon we stuck it out.

Cold river. And it was.

Built by the CCC. Cabins are available all year. We'll come back for snowshoeing and spend the night here.

We like tent camping but this might be a little warmer in the winter months.

Lots of different trees having a meeting. The United Nations of the Mohawk trail.

Trails in the woods lead to an open meadow.

White pines are very tall. It is reported the tallest tree in Massachusetts is here someplace.

Old stone walls. There are ghosts here.

This sign was off the trail. I noticed it by accident.

Walking down to the natural trail and meadow.

Old truck from the 40s. Who doesn't love finding old cars in the woods?

Scrapbooking

2010-09-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

Here are some places around that are not here, still here and modified a bit:

Taken at my grandparents' house on Lyman St., in S Hadley in 1968. Probably while Dad was experimenting with his coffee treatment. Poppy was the caretaker for the Notre Dame cemetery for many years. The house was located on the cemetery and was moved, eventually. Not sure where.

20 Grandview St., S Hadley. Babcia and Jaju had this really cool pool. It was seasonal.

Brand new house at 91 8th avenue in the Fairview section of Chicopee. Nice placement of shrubs, I think. Here's a modern day walk through this neighborhood.

Mighty Tasty

2010-09-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

The tomatoes look pretty good. And the raspberries are huge. Let's get some!

(Oliver st., Easthampton, Ma.)

Field of Ferns

2010-08-27T05:07:00.000-07:00

Walking along Blue Meadow Rd., Belchertown, near the Quabbin.

Making new friends

2010-08-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

I'm determined to be more social and get out there and meet some birds. Here's some folks I met over the last few weeks. Some were chatty. Some didn't say much.

(Quabbin Reservoir)

Mr. L decided to drop in. He was being noisy. But I like it.

Some of us have more to say than others.

(Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Lenox, Ma.)

Lunch with Mr. Blue Heron. I already ate my rodent, but please, dig right in!

(Around Bassett Island, Quabbin)

We were invading this young eagle's turf. So we moved on. He was nice about it, though.

(Connecticut River, Holyoke, Ma.)

We chatted about the Patriots upcoming season. Then Mr. 'GBH had to fly off.

(Canal Park, S Hadley, Ma.)

Mrs. E has got the itch for more cowbell, probably. We chatted about bugs.

(Canal Park, S Hadley, Ma.)

(Lower Pond, Mt. Holyoke College)

Mrs. D told me she can't wait for the day they can drive themselves around.

Reflections on Shorelines

2010-08-20T16:40:00.000-07:00

We certainly like the mountains around the Pioneer Valley, but we also enjoy the rivers, ponds and reservoirs. Here's a look at some of our favorite spots, around the neighborhood and beyond!

(Bench on dock, Connecticut River, South Hadley, Mass.)

We'll sit here for awhile. Someone took away the diving board!

(PCJ staffer, Quabbin Reservoir, around gate 31)

No shore fishing here, better move along, pal.

(Ashley Reservoir, Holyoke, Mass.)

Let's go for a run!

(Sunset over Mt. Tom, Connecticut River, South Hadley, Mass.)

We don't like the mucky shore when the water is low.

(Newton Pond, Quabbin Reservoir)

Water reflects like glass with a quick twenty foot drop. Where is the rope swing?

(Oar House, Connecticut River, Canal Rd., South Hadley, Mass.)

Book your wedding party here. Capacity: 8.

(Sand Bar, Quabbin Reservoir)

Hey, buddy, you better get back in the boat!

Deja Vu in Monson

2010-08-07T07:19:00.000-07:00

Found myself in Monson the other morning and decided to take a ride over to Peaked Mountain. It's run by the Trustees of the Reservations. They do a good job protecting trails from erosion, eradicating bad plants, putting little wood chips down and making nice benches and picnic tables. I like them.

I could have sworn I'd been here before. Before this fancy sign was here. Experiencing deja vu while walking the trails of Monson is probably common, though.

Lunden Pond. There was on old hunter's cabin close by. And lots of mosquitoes.

Top of Peaked. Quabbin reservoir watershed is out in this direction.

Looking east towards Worcester.

let's get lost.

2010-07-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

here are some random things i've been doing over the past month:

1. Gardening.

2. walking.

3. running: greatest 5k loop ever.

4. making new friends.

5. more gardening.

6. anticipating.

7. wondering who would do this?

8. walking up here.

finding stuff.

1. tiger lily.

2. river rd. s hadley. i'm having a tooth extracted on thursday, actually. but not here.

3. ashley reservoir, holyoke, mass.

4. s hadley canal park.

5. bridge of flowers, shelburne falls, mass

6. mt. park

7. boys & girls club property, holyoke.

8. old ski trails, mt. park.

The Rebirth of the Park Near the Mountain

2010-07-02T12:51:00.000-07:00

We sort of like what is happening at Mountain Park. The music isn't for us. But we'll see a show. We're thinking the Disco Biscuits might be fun.

Babcia might not recognize any of the acts on the schedule. Although a polka was named after the park, we don't see any polka bands on the agenda.

Parking lot. We hope they don't paint any white or yellow lines.

Grass is growing.

This rock didn't make the cut. "Outside of the fence for you!"

For those who can't afford the ticket prices, here is a path from the reservoir leading to the fence.

We can watch from here!

I close my eyes and can hear Happy Louie!

View from the "cheap" seats.

Airline Drive-in, Chicopee, MA.

2010-06-06T19:03:00.000-07:00

Last movie I saw here was Cujo, a Stephen King story. It was pretty scary. I remember watching the entire movie. So it probably wasn't a date.

(Photo of dilapidated drive-in theater by M. Longhi of Holyoke. The bulldozer is warming up.)

On Oct 8, 2004 at 9:55am, from cinematreasures.org/, MDRedDevil wrote:

I was born on Westover AFB in the late 60's, and remember Airline Drive-in with great fondness. It was the place were I watched features such as Western World, and several of the "Herbie The Love bug" movies. This drive-in was located on Memorial Dr. which was (and is still) an "American Graffiti-isk" setting for local kids drag racing. Today, Whenever I am filling up my SUV at Bj's, and the horizon is painted with the pink/blue colors of dusk, the warm summer breeze brings back fond memories of a time when playing with Gi Joe's and Sam Cobra in the woods behind Zarres, watching cartoons on Saturday mornings, and Roller-skating at United Skates of America on Saturday night constituted my whole weekend. One of my good friends has part of that great 50's era neon Airline Drive-in Sign.

Arial shot from 1971:

http://www.historicaerials.com/default.aspx?poi=8258

Cars in the woods

2010-04-24T17:58:00.000-07:00

There is something ghostly about finding old cars in the woods. When I come across cars like this I can't help but try to tap back in time to get a sense what happened here. The imagination runs wild.

If it was a crash or stolen it probably would have been removed. It was abandoned. Pushed down the embankment. But why?

The old work truck has been here for decades. It belonged to a farmer before the government knocked on his door and made him an offer. The railroad was coming through. The farmer ended up in Pittsfield where he ran a bookstore for many years. Never married and childless, he died alone in 1974. Only one sister, Eunice from Caselton-On-Hudson, made it to the service.

This Ford Fairlane is at rest but not comfortably. After careening over the granite bridge wall it never really settled. But is firm in the ground.

The hood is gone. The driver side door is pulled open off the hinges like someone ripped at it violently. Maybe to pull someone out.

Someone smoked cigarettes here every morning on the way to work. WHYN 560 played Judy Collins, Both Sides Now. Unfastoned kids jumped around in the backseat. "I'm going to stop this car if you don't behave!" The car mostly ended up stopping for ice cream.

Bullet holes. It's now target practice. Here's an old Web site featuring some old cars in the woods in Farmington, Connecticut.

Children of the mill workers of Holyoke, Massachusetts, 1941

2010-04-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

The kids play in safety in the FHA (Federal Housing Administration) low income housing project.

Plenty of room to hang laundry.

Balsa wood airplane, comic book. Must be Saturday!

This girl's mother is Lithuanian and her father is Polish.

There is plenty of fresh air and sunlight here at the housing project.

America from the Great Depression to World War II: Black-and-White Photographs from the FSA-OWI, 1935-1945 -- Library of Congress

Visiting some friends at Mt. Holyoke College

2010-04-12T18:39:00.000-07:00

I like trees because they seem more resigned to the way they have to live than other things do.

-- Willa Cather, O Pioneers 1913

‘Hally Jolivette’ Cherry. This guy will bloom for the next two weeks.

Japanese Flowering Apricot. What a lovely fragrance! Small yellow fruits follow the blooms. Don't eat them!

Saucer Magnolia is getting on in age. Getting a little round. Bring on the late frost! We can take it!

We can see why this is called the Amazonian Zebra Plant

Where are the frogs?

Amaryllis 'Pink Impression'. We like the white stripes on the petals

The ubiquitous geranium. We'll bring one to the cemetery in a few weeks.

Glastonbury: Blackledge Falls

2010-03-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

While visiting friends in Glastonbury, Ct., we decided to take a walk around Blackledge Falls.

We like the sound of rushing water.

We hear some pheasants in the distance.

Small streams. We think the water levels should be higher given all the rain. Where are the fish?

Foot bridges make it easy to get across.

Where is the falls? Maybe we should go this way? Who has the map?

We follow the water up the hill.

We never did find the falls. Maybe next time!

Urban Walkabout: Florence

2010-03-07T04:37:00.001-08:00

Constructed by the Worcester Lunch Car Company in 1941

Reviewing Cafe Evolution on happycow.net, jennicide writes: i love evolution cafe so much i feel sad when i am not there.

A cute house only visible in winter, we suspect. An armed and dangerous purple bag patrol officer from Northampton Media, lower right.

Artifacts 20th Century has an Eames lounger by Herman Miller. We've always liked the style. But the price was way beyond our budget.

We've brought chairs like this to the dump in years past. What were we thinking?

Sleds, shovels, salt and sand are displayed on the porch of the hardware store. We think they can put this stuff away.

We've recently purchased a high efficiency washer & dryer. We really like having them. Although pulling a load of towels through town looks like fun.

Recent Acquisitions to the PCJ Library

2010-03-01T18:27:00.001-08:00

From artist C. Bator of Chicopee, this profile of Vincent (1977) captures the restauranteur as she saw him. Confident. Successful.

A PCJ staffer worked at Vincent's Steakhouse, West Springfield, as a bus boy in 1984. He never saw a ghost.

A sunflower with wooden bird by D.J. Lang (2005?) of Chicopee. We like how the sunflowers are shivering. And not cause it's cold.

Sharkey's, Famous Chicopee Drive-In, For Sale

2010-02-28T17:25:00.000-08:00

We can't help but daydream about owning this place. We get together and start tossing ideas.

Mike: Let's talk about financing options.

Vince: I'll make pierogis and galompki!

Let's call the bank!

Grandview St.

2010-02-26T19:48:00.000-08:00

I think I found this same mink stole in the basement. It looks in great condition. It doesn't quite fit my shoulders, though. What should I do with it?

Should I call Max Zeller?

Walk through town: Easthampton with Spud

2010-02-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

Eastworks: Pleasant St. "NOPE The Invisible Fountain" We don't know what it means, but it's probably cool.

We like Easthampton: Prospect St. Green, blue and red.

Mannequin: Union St. We like this boutique. 23 skidoo!

Valentine's Day display: Cottage St. We're getting some gift ideas. Some good deals here.

Eastworks buildling 2nd fl. Let's take a break. It's warm up here by the hot water heater. And the sun beams through the windows.

Dilapidated factory: Pleasant St. I climb up on the old rusty fence to get this shot. Be careful!

Coke machine: Adams St. Storefront with old arcade video games in various stages of disrepair. We peer into the windows. We want to take a closer look at these old machines. We knock on the door but no one answers.

Union Mart: Cottage St. We think Union Mart should pick up all the trash around their store.

Steve Earle: Cottage St.

We're fairly confident. And we're somewhat hopeful.

Mural on the side of the Movie Gallery on Union St., Manhan rail trail. Movie Gallery is going out of business.

Mural: We remember getting our ankles caught in the spokes. We're glad to see advances in bike seats.

Someone left a shopping cart on High st. We should bring it back.

Extra!: Summer St.: dogs don't even like the Republican's delivery methods.

Shoe: Searle Ave.

Walk to School: Fairview Elementary 1971-74

2009-10-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

I attended Fairview Elementary from kindergarten to 3^rd grade. On a recent rainy Friday afternoon I retraced my steps. The 1.75-mile walk to school was shorter than I remember.

Jay, Rob, Dad and Mike in our living room on 8th Avenue in the Fairview section of Chicopee in 1972.

Our house. It was a bit different in 1971. We didn't have the garage. Or second floor. No deck. No pool. It was a small house back then. But big enough for us.

We had some interesting neighbors. Mrs. Ouimet lived here, I think. I used to knock on her door and ask for candy. She always had a bowl close by like she was expecting me.

Turning the corner I made my way to school. There was a deaf kid who lived on 9th St. I would pal around with him from time to time. He had a hearing aid that he said didn't help him. And it made a high-pitched noise that he said he couldn't hear.

I would pass "Ronnie Radio Man" on my way. He was mentally retarded. He was often sitting on a chair in the front yard listening to the radio. I would chat with him but he would only smile at me.

Crossing Montcalm St., I made my way to the sidewalk. We didn't have crossing guards.

Faith United Methodist church. I would attend Cub Scout meetings in the basement here. I didn't keep up with the Scouts. I think I quit after the first or second meeting.

Just about halfway there. It was raining. During walks to school in the rain I would get drenched. Teachers would often want us to put our wet clothes on the heater. I kept my wet pants on till they dried.

School pool is closed for the season. State pool on Memorial Drive has been filled in, but School pool lives on! To the left is the fence of a new condo complex.

I learned to swim here. The pool is in great condition and was recently featured in a WWLP story.

This building once housed a variety store. All Star, I believe it was called. I would buy pixie sticks, Mike and Ikes, Sugar Babies, hot balls.

Finally arrived with time to spare!

Navy Flashback: January 1962

2009-01-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

My dad was knocked overboard when a hose became loose during a refueling effort.

I found this edition of the Springfield Rifle in a photo album that belonged to my grandmother. I've heard this story and had seen the article but this version of the Springfield Rifle was in plastic and pristine.

Good job there, Buddy.

Final score: Deep Freeze 1 PCJ 0

2009-01-01T16:46:00.000-08:00

The kayak is close by and we could drag it down right quick.

We could break through this ice. No sweat.

Well, on second thought, the wind. BRRRR!

We heard there is a Looney Tunes marathon on Cartoon Network. Let's do that instead!

Pine Cone Holiday Party Flashback

2008-12-19T18:59:00.000-08:00

(From left: Nana, Uncle Paul, Grandma, Mike, Jay, Poppy, Author. Note the high school photo of Uncle Paul atop the piano. )

I found this photo in a box and remember seeing it on Grandma's refrigerator many years ago. The photo was snapped before the folks went off to a Christmas party. We were left as a sleepover, obviously. I saw a ghost that night.

Reader responds: the year must be 1971. michael was born in jan 1970. what wonderful fun times. yes, i remember you telling me about the ghost. grandma told you it was uncle paul, coming up the stairs and not a ghost. still believe it was a ghost?

It was a ghost, for sure.

Pine Cone Walkabout: Let's check out the dam!

2008-12-14T07:39:00.000-08:00

We start out on Canal St. in South Hadley falls. The river is high so we think it best to check on our old friend.

The churning waters splash up to the hanging branches. We've paddled here many times. Not today!

We like how the Texon building stands bravely as the water pours over the dam. The old building knows the rules and has an intimate relationship with the river and its tempestuous nature.

Over the bridge, we walk into Holyoke and up Canal St. and take a right on Lyman. The engineer sits and waits on tracks near Gatehouse Rd. We wave to him but he ignores us. He's eating a sandwich.

We walk down Gatehouse Rd. to view the dam from the Holyoke side. A driver stops and asks where the road ends. We tell him it's a dead end. He turns around.

We turn up John St. and come across Ye Olde Bud building. VanDog posted some nice shots of this building earlier this year.

Turning onto High St. we look over our shoulder and see the Caledonian staring down at us. We see the Trustees of Reservations has an office on the first floor. We've noticed their sign at the Dinosaur Footprints on Rt. 5.

We're getting hungry as we start home. Is that kielbasa and kapusta we smell? Perhaps it is our imagination. Gramps is close by. Let's go!

We like all dogs. Their owners? Well?

2008-12-12T21:03:00.000-08:00

Sign on Mt. Holyoke College grounds. We like the dog talk. We guess Bark, Woof means the dogs should at least consider waiting till they are off campus to poop. We're not sure how to translate Grrrrr.

Christmas Shopping Focus: Yankee Candle

2008-11-20T19:35:00.000-08:00

One of these photos was taken in Deerfield, Mass. Can you guess which one?

We really like Yankee Candle. It reminds us of our visits to Monschau, in the German forest.

(Author is thinking of getting some tea lights. Lemon Lavender, maybe)

Even though he sold the place, we think Michael J. Kittredge is pretty pleased how things turned out.

We like the train that runs through Santa's Village. It's just over the bridge!

I think this photo was taken in Valkenburg, NL. But who can tell?

Sports Flashback: Ward 6 Chicopee 8-12 League Boys Soccer, 1975

2008-11-07T19:54:00.000-08:00

Standing from left: Peter Reznicki, Alain Beaulier, Coach Pete McGarry, Tim Burke, Mike Lafreinere, John Birks. kneeling: Unknown (I think the kid moved), author with big smile, Ron Desellier, Mike Simpson, Pat McGarry, Tim Foley, Unknown.

We came across this photo in a box of old trophies. Baseball, Soccer, Basketball. Ward Six Civic Association handed out many awards. Even in losing seasons.

Shadows around sundown at Ashley

2008-11-07T18:59:00.000-08:00

Soon the wind will blow cold here.

We've got some new gear. Bring it on!

Sunday Dinner

2008-11-02T17:56:00.000-08:00

(Turkey, Jim, 1980)

I snapped this photo of Dad after he took the bird out of the oven. This could have been any Sunday. We had big dinners every Sunday for many years.

I still call Dad for cooking advice. I planned to make a pot roast tonight and needed some direction. It came out good. Thanks! These photos were taken in our Chicopee home in 1980.

Babcia, Jaju, Grandma, Poppy, brothers, sisters would come to these events. Post dinner conversation was always lively.

Below, Poppy settles in to digest. Where is the piano?

Update. Reader writes: as for the piano, we didn't have one yet. dad purchased the old babcia's piano from a fella who worked with dad. apparently it was sold to him when the house on hildreth ave in south hadley for sold. think mid 80's. we have the piano [bench] in our posession now. gave the piano to charity in 90's.

Pack Up Your Troubles

2008-10-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

Although the top photo is from 1960 and the bottom photo is from 2008 for some reason I'm thinking of this song from 1916. Somebody is telling me something.

Reader writes: Wow, now that picture is old. On the left is Uncle Pete, Patty Ryan, me and dad, all pushed together.

On the Street Where You Live

2008-09-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

Bardwell St. 01075

We are walking to the library to pick up some CDs and we see these two chairs. What were they talking about earlier? We think the Presidential debate. "This is more important than convictions." says one. "What would that objectivist say?" says the other.

We like that the porch post on the second floor needs to be painted. But the post on the first floor looks fine.

We like this little pond mostly because the gate is open. Perhaps the lighthouseman is in. Give a knock and say hello!

Back to the conversation. "Did you sleep well?" says one. "I did" says the other. "And did I snore? I wasn't wearing my mask." says one. "I didn't notice" says the other.

Corner of Bardwell and Elm.

Ford F-150. Wow. Does anyone know the year?

We've painted our share of houses but never this color. We like it.

The boy thinks of lighting his pipe. The girl tries not to notice the huge frog to her left.

Litterbug! Litterbug! Fly away home.

2008-09-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've ever tried these. You can also get them in low fat. That's good.

America runs on Dunkin. Delicious full-flavored refreshment

Oh, this reminds me. I need to get new tires before winter.

I hope Luis kept his appointment. He dropped his reminder.

I've never tried the French onion flavored. Good Fun!

I sometimes get these out of the machine at work. Eat better all day!

Yummy! I could eat two of these in one sitting.

System wiring diagram for a 1997 Buick Century Custom. Nice ride.

The king of Belgian beers.

Better than soft drinks at Wendy's, some think.

Hey, you dropped something! At least the cap was put back on. Very thoughtful! Thanks!

Easthampton: The Other Side of the Mountain

2008-09-19T20:56:00.000-07:00

We live in South Hadley and can't see over the mountain. This is what it's like over here!

Looks like an old farm. The sun is hot but the air is cool. The crickets have lots to sing about. Can you hear them?

This looks like a road we'd like to walk down. We do.

Looks pretty lush in here. We like it.

I think this crossing is going to take awhile. I'll take a rest and have a drink and watch.

The sunflowers look down and laugh at us. HA!

Remembrance: Robert S. Bator 1934-2008

2008-09-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Community Volunteer, Artist and Saloon Singer Searched for Productive Tranquility

Bator wrote his own obituary in the late '80s. Here it is transcribed from handwritten notes. Bator died in 2008:

He was an Army veteran of the Korean Era, serving from January 1955 to 1958. Two and one half years were spent at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland during the height and beginning of the Cold War. Bator spoke and was further trained in the Russian language and sometimes worked in civilian clothes. Aberdeen Proving Ground was and still is a testing ground for ordinance and Army tanks. It hired many civilians that got through the oracles of its top security personnel structure. There were many covert sting operations that Bator was involved in while the McCarthy hearings were taking place. Upon his discharge and duties that satisfied the Army and the government, he went on to Minneapolis College of Art and Design and graduated with a B.F.A in 1962. He came back to his birthplace of Chicopee and took on additional Art courses in the Springfield School System with 'on the job' training with Rich Lithograph, Whittum Printing and Eastern Etching in Chicopee. He developed his graphic techniques in commercial art with photo lab techniques in time exposures. Eventually he branched out in free-lance work in Cleveland, Ohio and designed many Restaurant menus (chain operations on a national level). In the late 60s Bator started creating record jacket covers, when they were an art vehicle for the commercial artist and had excellent exposure in what was once called Record Stores. Bator also followed up on his musical talents doing various voice blends with chorus and duo groups of that period. He recorded with Shaggy Dog Studios* in West Stockbridge -- a Capitol Records affiliate of that time period. Recorded on Rex Records with Larry Chesky and a few pop tunes with Les Barry in the late 50s. Les Barry was a 17-year-old accompanist for the great Al Jolson and tutored Bator on lyric and poise (phrasing) technique. Also supplying him with a few original compositions that were never published but were performed at various U.S.O. tours around the eastern seaboard and various government medical facilities. Bator sang with the Springfield Symphony Chorus in 1959 and 1960. Also performing radio and television commercials for Yale Genton in the early 70s. He tried saloon singing in the early 50s in great showplaces like the former Red Barn and worked with pop singer Dick Haynes back in '54 for one dramatic evening in Chicopee, Mass.* Saloon singing was popular in the 50s and also early 60s -- if you had the moxie to take the rough crowds. Bator said once 'if they’re drinking and heckling, drink and heckle back at them and sing or do your act...whatever.' Sometimes it wasn't too smooth of an operation and early exits were called upon for certain performers. But it was fun and one heck of a head-trip. The music industry supplied Bator with a visual vehicle to perform and design...but alcohol began to take its toll in the early 60s and there would be numerous rehabs and programs in AA that would give him only brief periods of productive tranquility. He explored fine art, abstraction paintings, trying desperately to find a void where Pollock left off. Funding was limited for large canvas attempts in this action art series. Spin offs of Jackson Pollock's style were not always accepted in the 80s when he tried to develop an extension of what he believed the great artist would have liked trying. Bator exhibited once in New York, in Cleveland and Minneapolis at the Minneapolis School of Art and Design Gallery and the Eastern States Expo back in 1962. He was active in community theater groups such as the East Longmeadow Community players. In the mid 70s while freelancing in art, he worked for the City of Chicopee in the Office of Community Development. While block grants were available, Bator did many rehabilitation projects in cost estimates and code enforcement. He was active in rehab work with the mentally challenged on a state level and retired in the field of commercial art. Bator devoted his time to fine art projects and community volunteer work. An active member of the Board of Health, he broke his anonymity in AA by taking part in community related addiction programs for step-by-step recovery and public relations on his own individual effort. He was tireless in trying to reach out for those who had an alcoholic persuasion (affliction). He leaves his wife Joan, and his former wife Celine of Chicopee. His sons Vincent and Yoland of Somerville, daughter Dominique of Chicopee.

*Many pop singers such as Dick Haynes or Don Cornel were on a downward trend because of rock n' roll and played in nightclubs in Western Mass. such as the Red Barn.

Sports Flashback 1980

2008-09-04T19:28:00.001-07:00

Chicopee High School: Valley League Golf Champs

The Chicopee High School golf team compiled a 12-3 overall record and a leading 11-1 Valley League record for the 1980 season. Members of the team are: from left, Coach John Stewart, Rusty Randall, Andy O'Brien, Dave Boudreau, Dennis Houle, Jim DiRico, Jim Genest and Brian Maslak.

This just in: Summer is almost over

2008-08-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

(Photo by Uncle Fred)

Bob is too young to be starting school. He'll spend the warm August afternoons shopping and visiting with relatives. The Old Babcia obviously says something disagreeable in this 1968 photo.

Can I help with the dishes?

2008-08-05T18:56:00.000-07:00

Don't take a picture of the pots and pans! Not Funny!

Judy and Babcia work at the sink on Grandview St. in South Hadley, Christmas, 1966.
I'll bet the photographer ended up NOT helping with the dishes.

Pine Cone Paddleabout

2008-08-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

A Trip into the Marsh Near Veterans Bridge, Rt. 202, Holyoke, Mass.

The Veterans Bridge connecting South Hadley and Holyoke.

We often drive over this bridge into Holyoke and look into the marsh. Here's a view from the other side.

The vegetation is thick. The foliage has a tasty looking texture. Could this be good with a little butter and garlic? Probably not.

Frogs croak and fish splash. Dragonflys hover. Not a soul in sight.

It's slow moving as the paddle pushes through the soup.

Paddling out of the marsh we head north to High Rock and Low Rock on the Holyoke side of the river. Locals often swim and jump off the rocks.

Someone left a thick rope to make it easier to climb up.

High rock. I've never jumped.

Low Rock

Rt. 47 to Sunderland

2008-07-26T18:26:00.000-07:00

Lots of Places to Stop Along the Way

Jim and Judy stop for produce. Looks like someone snuck off to get some ice cream! We see you over there, Mister!

Walkabout: Mt. Tom State Reservation

2008-07-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

The Rise and Fall of Eyrie House, Holyoke, Mass.

1861 - Hiram Farnum & Wm Street leased 10 acres on the summit of Mt. Nonotuck, they built a 22 x 26' Hotel, the first two years of the lease were free, then $50.00 a month.
1861 July 4 - Opened & dedicated Eyrie House (Eagles Nest). Room & Board $1.00/day or $5.00 a week.
1861 August - Mr. Farum takes leave of the operation. Mr. Street becomes sole owner of Eyrie House.

1863 June 23 - Holyoke Cornet Band entertains a crowd of 200. Many similar concerts all year.
1864 May 23 - Hotel and grounds well received. Large crowds daily.
1866 June 2 - New Menagerie along summit paths enjoyed by all.

1868 June 16 - Average of 50 patrons a day enjoy the Hotels hospitality and fare.
1870 May 31 - Picnic Grove crowded to capacity. 125 people most days.
1872 June - Many Patrons return yearly for a week or two of pure mountain air

1875 May - First talk of inclined Railway to summit. Survey underway.
1876 June 3 - Steam Pump used to pump water up mountain to Hotel.
1877 June 30 - Construction started on Pavilion & Stable. Pavilion to hold 400 guests.

1878 June 1 - Enlargement of Hotel complete, now 40 x 49', more than 25 guest rooms.
1880 June 1 - Failure of Roller Skating in pavilion due to poor quality skates.
1881 June 1 - Another enlargement of Hotel, now 40 x 60'. 30 plus guest rooms.

1882 June 1 - Dining room seats 80, full menu 50 cents. Board now $8.00 per week.
1883 June 1 - All Promenades complete. Wires were strung and a telephone installed.
1885 May 30 - New Carriage Road to summit completed. Telephone removed (Too costly).

1887 May 30 - Many new animals added to Menagerie. Bear, Monkey & Alligator, etc.
1889 May 25 - Hotel & Grounds still enjoying large crowds. Clam bakes a real hit.
1891 June 6 - Enlarge patron Stable, now holds 40 horses. Windmill now pumping water to summit.

1893 May - Work on the new Hotel and inclined Railway begins (Now the rock ruins we have today).
1895 June 5 - Business fair, work on the new inclined Railway to Mt. Tom Junction continuing.
1897 - Business starting to drop off. New Mountain House on Mt. Tom the new public attraction.

1899 - Only annual Patrons and Picnics kept the Eyrie House going.
1901 Apr. 13 - Hotel, Pavilion & Stable burn to the ground, all is lost. Caused by negligence in cremation of several horses which had recently died.

1904 - The Mt. Tom Reservation Commissioners offered Mr. Street $5,000 for his property. Mr. Street wanted $25,000. Neither side would budge, so the Commissioners issued their check and took the property by eminent domain. Mr. Street never accepted the settlement, so the money was deposited in a bank in Mr. Street's name, where it remained till his death in 1918 at age 78. Over the years, Mr. Street made 23 land purchases and accumulated approx. 100 acres of land near Mt. Nonotuck summit.

-- Text from sign on path leading to Eyrie House.
Photos by PCJ staffer Bob Genest

June is wedding season

2008-06-23T20:23:00.000-07:00

Happy anniversary, Mom & Dad! The reception following the ceremony at St. Patricks Church in South Hadley, Mass, 1963.

Reader responds: thanks for the look back, to a very happy fun filled day.

Random Dads

2008-06-16T18:01:00.000-07:00

My Dad has three sons. Author in the middle. My brother Mike, right, has twin girls.

Brother Jay has a daughter, Audrey.

Dziadzu had two daughters. One of his daughters has three sons.

Dad was always home. Except for Friday nights.

The last thing on Poppy's mind as a boy, standing far right, is being a dad. But he had 2 boys and a girl, eventually. And they have various children. And now those children are parents.

A Day on the Town!

2008-06-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

Here's today's quiz:

Everyone knows that's Aunti Anne, Poppy, Grandma and Uncle Paul. Name the man and boy in the middle!

Update: Reader writes:

the picture was taken in nyc. uncle sonny, eleanor's husband. eleanor was poppy's sister, and next to sonny is gene bouchard. gene died at 60 and sonny, his father is also gone.
dad was in the navy. at first i thought it was a picture of dad, but, after i enlarged, it was uncle paul.

Holyoke Savings Bank 1963

2008-06-06T20:24:00.000-07:00

Judy, far left, and crew at the H.S.B. It's almost quarter to six and the manager's carnation still looks fresh. I figure the doors were locked at 4pm. I guess there was lots of money to count!

Good to be home II

2008-06-02T19:21:00.001-07:00

Finding a way to keep cool is essential in the hot summer sun, 1944. The sailor, stays in uniform.

Who is the woman with John and Cas?

Update: Reader writes, "the old woman wtih cas and john is their grandmother on my father's side. her last name was Gripp. she and her husband had many acres of land on new ludow road.

Keeping Cool at Misquamicut State Beach

2008-06-02T18:53:00.000-07:00

Blanket to Blanket Fun!

Author, pre-summer buzz, ready to soak up some rays, 1978.

Jim and the Toyota Cressida, 1989, getting a prime spot in the lot.

River Dog Paddleabout

2008-06-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

An afternoon on the Connecticut River

We often launch our canoe from this spot.

We paddle into the sandy river's edge. We walk up the bank and into a sunny, green area. There are no footprints. As we walk through the bushes we get stung by the prickers. Ouch! We stay here for awhile and keep a lookout.

Mt. Tom. The communication towers blink at us. I always get a good signal from here. We paddle on.

We see a shape in the distance.

Branches break from trees along the banks and drift till they get caught close to shore. We like how they create shapes and personalities. This one will probably stay all summer. We'll call him Leopold!

Walkabout: Bash Bish Falls

2008-05-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

Bash Bish Falls, Mt. Washington, Mass.

Before the white man came to North America, many Algonquin tribes populated the northeast, among them the Mohicans of western Massachusetts. Within their society, polygamy was not uncommon and divorce was frequently countenanced. Adultery, however, was an intolerable offense and was punishable by death. This legend revolves around a beautiful Mohican woman named Bash-Bish who was accusd of this gravest of crimes, found guilty, and condemned to death as prescribed by tribal law, despite her persistent protestations of innocence. For the execution of her sentence, a canoe equipped with leather thongs was secured in the swift water upstream from a waterfall. Bash-Bish was to be bound to the vessel, which was then to be released and drawn by the current over the fateful cataract.

At the appointed hour, the Indians, including the woman's infant daughter, White Swan, solemnly gathered for the ceremony. Suddenly a curious thing happened. A fine mist began to slant in from the sun while, simultaneously, a ring of bright butterflies circled Bash-Bish's head. As the Mohicans fell back in awe of the unexplained phenomenon, the condemned woman broke away, dashed to the edge of the falls and flung herself over the cruel shawl of water, the butterflies spiralling downward behind her. The pool below has never given up her body.

-Excerpt from "Haunted New England, A Devilish View of the Yankee Past, by Mary Bolte, 1972

Good to be home

2008-05-25T05:19:00.000-07:00

Dziadzu (John), far right, visits his parents' house on Hildreth Ave., South Hadley, Summer, 1944. He was on leave from duties in the South Pacific. Uncle Cas, far left.

Dziadzu with my mother, Judy.

Dziadzu and Cas ready for a good meal.

Cas was on leave from the U.S. Army Air Force from his duties as a tail gunner. He was stationed in England.

Walkabout: Mt. Holyoke College

2008-04-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

We started out for the museum, but got sidetracked by the greenhouse.

It was nice and tropical and we got carried away by the climate. It was just like southwest Florida, where we have visited many times.

We walked past the waterfall, by the tennis courts, then up to the track.

Time to do some sprints!

Creating Perspective

2008-04-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows Grandma was a good housekeeper. The photographer obviously uses his/her sense of humor to frame this shot at our Chicopee home in 1976. With two working parents, and three young boys, cleaning the bathrooms usually took a backseat to wiffle ball.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2008-04-14T18:07:00.001-07:00

These four guys want to wish you a Happy Birthday! Mike looks hungry!

You've made many cakes over the years. Here is one for Jay's sixth birthday. Na zdrowie!

Summer Fun: Pool at the South Hadley Beechgrounds

2008-04-11T20:31:00.001-07:00

(Author with ball. Mt. Tom in background, Summer, 1970)

(Same spot, Spring, 2008)

Hopefully the pool will be open soon!!

Walkabout: Roaming Around the Northampton Parking Garage

2008-03-30T15:37:00.001-07:00

A 1962 Oldsmobile F-85 Cutlass on level 4. Nice ride.

Our friends, the Pedal People, house their tools under the staircase

View from the top looking north towards Pleasant st.

View of the Holyoke Range from the top floor.

Spending the Afternoon at Woodlawn Playground, South Hadley

2008-03-29T06:37:00.000-07:00

These two certainly look like they are enjoying the summer sun in July, 1957.

Judy writes on photo: Handsome, considerate, sweet. Yes, that describes Jim! Don't forget smart. And a fancy dresser and a fabulous polka dancer!

And a sense of humor, too!

Fairfield of Dreams

2008-03-28T19:10:00.001-07:00

The Fairfield Mall, which opened in 1974, closed in 2001.
In its heyday, Two Guys and Forbes and Wallace brought in lots of traffic.

What's the difference between the stores that are in this location now and the stores that were there in the past? Not much.

Looking north. CVS to the left. There was a bookstore and record store nearby. I bought 45s at the record store.

Looking north into Caldor. GNC on the right, Andersen Little on the left. Barber's pole for the Headquarters is past GNC to the right. I always got a good haircut there. I always walked out of the Headquarters looking like Caesar.

Food court wasn't there when I was a kid.

I played pinball at Just Fun. But not much. I thought that stuff was a waste of money.

I think this entrance was on the side of Andersen Little.

On December 3, 2005,
Scott Stambaugh said:

I was the manager of Zales Jewelers at the Fairfield Mall in Chicopee, MA in the 1970's. In fact I was transferred there in 1974 when the mall was still under construction. I took part in overseeing the store's construction, hiring employees, checking in all the merchandise and preparing the store for the mall's grand opening in October 1974. At that time the mall manager was Joe Aaron and the anchor stores were Two Guys, and Forbes and Wallace. There was an excellent mix of stores including Anderson Little, Friendlys, and a neck tie shop that sold men's neckties for only a dollar each. I used to buy one every payday. My Zales store was located next to Spencer gifts. We were the only jeweler in the mall and business was excellent. During the first couple of years we were setting all kinds of sales records. I had an excellent staff of employees that all worked well together as a team. On grand opening day the featured guest star was Donald O'Conner and they also had the Philip Morris midget handing out to everyone. The mall owner, Ed Debartalo (owner of the SanFransisco 49ers) also was there and gave a speech. That mall was extremely successful at the time and I cannot believe it is now closed. All of the store employees were like a family and I have a lot of good memories from working there.

On September 19th, 2007,
Joe Collins said:

I took the photos of the inside of the mall while home from college for Thanksgiving. Weird…I had totally forgot about this until a friend of mine stumbled upon it recently. The mall is completely raised, and in fact the Walmart on the site is now transforming into a Walmart Supercenter. When the store was in the planning stages, Stop & Shop and Big Y fought having a grocery component. Maybe they gave up…I wonder how well they will do once the Supercenter opens. In any case, the Chicopee Savings / Ocean State Job Lot building is now being completely renovated. I guess a Panera is moving in along with a jewelry store and some other businesses. I will have to check it out when I go home for Thanksgiving this year (I now live in California). Also, I must say I agree with Brian Lapointe in that I miss that Kielbasa Fest and the Taste of Chicopee. The 4th of July timed Fest-Of-All just isn’t the same.

comments from deadmalls.com
photos by Joe Collins from labelscar.com.

The Falls: Mid-Afternoon Sun

2008-03-23T13:07:00.000-07:00

(Old Firehouse Museum, South Hadley Falls, Mass. (left), United Methodist Church steeple (center), Mt. Holyoke Masons building (right).

A brisk afternoon walk in the Falls. The warm sun heats the roads and the bricks. My coat is open and I'm not wearing a hat.

(The Richmond apartment building, Main St., South Hadley Falls)

(Dzaidziu owned several buildings in South Hadley. He always had his eye on the Richmond, I'm told. )

Bob Judge, President of the South Hadley Historical Society said, "The building was built for my great-grandfather, Martin Judge (1865-1929). The family folklore is that it was named "Richmond" because his wife was born in Richmond, VA., which she was."

(Doorway on Bardwell St.)

Happy Birthday, Jay!

2008-03-21T20:18:00.001-07:00

Jay and Mom enjoying the springtime air on Canal St., 1964.

(An accountant by trade, Jay ponders inventory dates)

Pine Cone Songs

2008-03-05T16:51:00.001-08:00

Grandma plays the piano in our Chicopee home, 1987.

The tempo picks up here, obviously.

Grandma and Poppy in their kitchen, South Hadley, 1974

Snowed In? Let's Play Checkers!

2008-02-28T16:13:00.000-08:00

(Brother J.J. and Nana react to a special surprise, Christmas, 1966.)

Who wouldn't scream with delight discovering the entire day will be spent with Nana! Cards, checkers, puzzles. NON STOP FUN!

Just don't dig any holes in the yard and everything will be fine.

(Nana poses in driveway at Lyman St., South Hadley after snowstorm around '62)

Nice Suit

2008-02-27T17:44:00.000-08:00

(Left: Author, Above: Jim at the motor lodge)

I had the seersucker first. I was fairly sure of it. Guess not. Jim's pants ride up a little higher than mine, though.

Breaking into Song

2008-02-16T17:45:00.000-08:00

November 1950. Paul (Poppy) far left, singing at Teacher's Convention in Springfield Auditorium. Claude Lagace at piano. Mr. Holedrige conducting. -- Grandma's notes on the back of the photo

(Author, left, with carnival crew. I didn't want to wear makeup)

Dutch Carnival, Heerlen, 1992. A colleague described this scene in Maastricht: "I was leaving for work around 8:30am and I saw these three clowns sitting on the curb. Two were keeled over and the other was vomiting. Fullmakeup. Big shoes. Big red wigs. I wish I hadn't seen that."