Groveland Firefighter Brian Belfiore Awarded for Saving the Life of Haverhill Man

pentucketporta on May 24, 2018

(Left-to-right: Groveland Fire Lieutenant Daniel Briscoe, Firefighter Brian Belfiore, and Interim Fire Chief Kurt Ruchala, at the Steward Health Care "EMS Stewards of the Community" awards night in Quincy on Tuesday, March 22. (Groveland Fire Department/Courtesy Photo)

(Left-to-right: Groveland Fire Lieutenant Daniel Briscoe, Firefighter Brian Belfiore, and Interim Fire Chief Kurt Ruchala, at the Steward Health Care “EMS Stewards of the Community” awards night in Quincy on Tuesday, March 22. (Groveland Fire Department/Courtesy Photo)

Firefighter Brian Belfiore was presented with the EMS Stewards of the Community Award from Steward Health Care for his quick thinking in saving the life of a man who suffered a heart attack while shoveling snow during one of last winter’s major storms.

On Jan. 4, during the “bomb cyclone” that occurred during the January 2018 North American blizzard, Firefighter Belfiore was operating a plow truck in the City of Haverhill when he heard on his fire department radio that a man had gone into cardiac arrest only a block away while shoveling snow.

Firefighter Belfiore took immediate action and arrived on scene seconds later, along with Haverhill Fire Chief William Laliberty, who is a neighbor of the victim. Together, and in low-visibility conditions the two trained emergency medical technicians performed CPR on the man until the arrival of a Trinity EMS ambulance. The victim was taken to Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, and he has since made a full recovery.

“Firefighter Belfiore’s actions in January represent the best of our profession. He relied on his training and skills when every moment counted, and he saved a life,” Chief Ruchala said.

Firefighter Belfiore is a 13-year veteran of the Groveland Fire Department. He serves as the department’s EMS Officer and is responsible not only for managing the operations of emergency medical services in Groveland but for also ensuring that other firefighters are properly-trained and that the department’s medical supply inventory is fully-stocked.

The awards were given on Tuesday, May 22 during a ceremony at The Tirrell Room in Quincy. A total of 24 professionals received awards, including Firefighter Belfiore and Chief Laliberty and two Trinity EMS paramedics who responded to the incident, recognizing each as “a leader and EMS Steward of the Community” according to the award inscription.

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West Newbury Police Officer Receives Letter of Recognition

pentucketporta on May 17, 2018

West Newbury Police Officer Danielle Burrill received a Letter of Recognition for her display of professionalism during an incident earlier this month.

While on patrol on May 4, Officer Burrill observed a known suspect with an active arrest warrant operating a vehicle that she knew had a revoked registration. She was also aware that the operator’s license had been suspended.

After a short pursuit, Officer Burrill stopped the vehicle in the driveway of the suspect’s residence. While trying to arrest the suspect, who was uncooperative and attempting to flee, there was a male family member making threats to shoot and kill Officer Burrill.

Officer Burrill was able to quickly arrest and detain the suspect, and was then able to calm the family member down to avoid further arrests or injuries.

As a result of her quick actions and recognizing that the family member may be suffering from a mental health condition, she was able to peacefully resolve the situation.

“I would like to commend Officer Burrill for her commitment to keeping our West Newbury residents safe at all times,” Chief Reed said. “She displayed an incredible level of professionalism while handling this incident and for that she absolutely deserves this recognition.”

Officer Burrill was honored during a small ceremony at the Board of Selectmen meeting on Monday, May 14.

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Groveland Police Supervisor Presented With Merrimack Valley Credit Union’s Biggest Heart Award

pentucketporta on April 6, 2018

Detective Sgt. Heather Riley (right) earned a Biggest Heart Award from Merrimack Valley Credit Union. (Courtesy Photo).

GROVELAND — Chief Jeffrey Gillen is pleased to announce that Groveland Police Detective Sgt. Heather Riley received a Biggest Heart award from the Merrimack Valley Credit Union at a ceremony earlier this week.

Detective Sgt. Riley was honored as MVCU’s First Responder with the Biggest Heart, in recognition of her dedication to her community and her compassion in the wake of a personal tragedy.

Following the passing of a lifelong friend after a lengthy battle with cancer, Detective Sgt. Riley did not hesitate before taking in her late friend’s teenage son, who was left without any family of his own after his mother’s death. In doing so, she committed to raising him just as his mother had, with strength and courage.

“The public expects our first responders to be selfless and dedicated to the community while they are at work,” said Groveland Police Dispatcher Catelyn Trudell in her nomination. “Heather is an example of someone who lives her entire life by that standard.”

Detective Sgt. Riley is an 11-year member of the Groveland Police Department. She became the first female supervisor in the department’s history last summer following her promotion to that rank.

“Detective Sgt. Riley is the embodiment of what it means to have a big heart, and I can’t imagine anyone who is more deserving of this honor than her,” Chief Gillen said. “I know her as a committed police officer and I have no doubt that she will fulfill her promise to take excellent care of this young man.”

With the award, MVCU presented a $500 donation to Cervivor — an organization that focuses its efforts on cervical cancer — on Detective Sgt. Riley’s behalf in honor of her late friend.

Groveland, Georgetown and Newburyport Police Recognized for Life Saving Actions

pentucketporta on February 13, 2018

GROVELAND– Groveland Police Chief Jeffrey T. Gillen, Georgetown Police Chief Donald C. Cudmore and Newburyport Marshal Mark Murray are pleased to announce that members of all three departments were recognized yesterday for saving a man’s life.

On Feb. 12, during two ceremonies — at 1 p.m. in Groveland during an informal open house and at 7:30 p.m. at a City Council meeting in Newburyport — officials recognized Groveland’s Sgt. Eric Gorski and Detective Steve Petrone, Georgetown Sgt. Kevin DeFeo and Newburyport Lt. Matthew Simons for their response after a Georgetown man crashed his car into a telephone pole and was left unconscious.

In Groveland, officers received citations from the Board of Selectmen, presented by Chairman Michael Wood and Personnel Director Denise Dembkoski. In Newburyport, Mayor Donna Holaday presented a citation to Lt Simons. He also received citations from state Sen. Kathleen O’Connor Ives and state Rep. James Kelcourse, along with a citation from Gov. Charlie Baker, which was presented by Rep. Kelcourse.

“This was a true collaborative effort between the Groveland, Georgetown and Newburyport Police Departments,” Chief Gillen said. “I want to commend these officers for their quick and efficient police work, which ultimately saved this man’s life.”

On Saturday, Jan. 27, Sgt. Gorski and Detective Petrone responded to a report of a single motor vehicle crash with personal injury on School Street and Salem Street, in the area of the Tea Garden in Groveland. Given the close proximity to Georgetown, Sgt. DeFeo also arrived on scene to assist.

Upon arrival, officers located Lt. Simons, who was off duty at the time, administering CPR to a 57-year-old Georgetown man. Detective Petrone and Sgt. DeFeo assisted with an AED and continued chest compressions until the man regained consciousness. He was transported to an area hospital, where he was treated and is expected to recover.

An investigation into the incident revealed that the Georgetown man was traveling north on School Street when he is believed to have suffered a medical event, causing his vehicle to cross over the southbound lane and travel up onto a curb before crashing head-on into a telephone pole.

Lt. Simons, who was driving on the southbound side of School Street noticed something off about the vehicle’s path of travel, and after looking in his rear-view mirror, saw the crash occur. He immediately turned around, pulled the unconscious victim from his car and began providing aid.

“This is a prime example of the fact that a police officer’s job does not stop when their shift ends,” Marshal Murray said. “Lt. Simons is a dedicated public servant whose keen observation skills allowed him to recognize the signs of a crash before it even took place. His dedication and professionalism to his job is a testament to his character.”

“These officers should be proud of themselves for their work that day,” Chief Cudmore said. “Our partnerships with neighboring police departments are vital in providing our residents with the best quality service, especially in emergency situations like what occurred during this motor vehicle crash.”

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Bagnall Elementary School Engages Whole Community With Design and Engineering Expo

pentucketporta on January 29, 2018

GROVELAND — At its first Design and Engineering Expo, Bagnall Elementary School united people of all ages from several communities around science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM).

“The close knit community of Groveland is one of my favorite things about being the principal of Bagnall,” Principal Emily Puteri said. “Seeing so many people in our community interested in what we’re doing was a really proud moment for all of us.” 

Approximately 200 students, parents and residents of surrounding towns participated in the Jan. 19 expo, which featured innovators, makers, artists and engineers who showcased their work and gave attendees a chance to explore a variety of STEAM projects. 

Some of the work on display included Pentucket Regional High School student Emily Stys’ project on animal prosthesis created with 3D printing, PRMS student Nicole Zahornasky’s hydraulic arm that she created, Bagnall sixth grader Colton Scally’s representation of a working record player and fifth grader Micheal Doucette’s working dirt bike. The expo also gave Bagnall students a chance to see how the school’s community garden is put to use by cafeteria staff who use the produce to prepare school lunches each day.

“I decided that we needed an event that would inspire our students to become active and excited about their learning at Bagnall,” Bagnall STEAM Coordinator Brooke Welch said. “As a community, it is important to celebrate each other’s successes and failures, learn from one another and share experiences within our district and surrounding communities. The driving force behind the expo was to establish a maker community and to include the families of Bagnall in our shared vision.”

Principal Puteri said she only heard one complaint about the expo, which came from a second grade student who wished the Friday evening event could have lasted longer. 

“It was just so nice to see our teachers and students in a different light, and have parents and their kids being engaged together,” Principal Puteri said. “It was really nice for kids to be able to make real world connections to what they’re doing in school.” 

The expo included exhibitors from MIT, Code and Circuit and a group representing First Robotics. Also among the presenters were:

  • Allegro Microsystems: Christopher Carnie
  • Environmental Engineering: Paula Morse
  • Organic Farming: Doug Morse
  • Pottery: Chris Brennan and Lindsey Laudenslauger
  • Science on the Street: MIT Branch
  • The Whalemobile: Cydne McInnis
  • Squishy Circuits: Kelsey Hicks

Students, parents and even community members who don’t have a formal connection to Bagnall were also able to spend the evening making electrical circuits, creating flying devices and developing a stronger understanding of coding and robotics.

“My children were inspired, as they had face to face conversations with creative and innovative community members that volunteered at the event,” said Kim Dowling, president of the Bagnall Education Foundation (BEF). “It linked the STEAM curriculum that the students are learning with real world examples of how it can be applied.”

The expo was made possible by the generous support of BEF and the Bagnall PTA.

Welch and Puteri are looking forward to planning future Design and Engineering Expos, as well as additional events that will give the whole community a chance to participate and further their learning.

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Groveland Police Officer Completes First Day of D.A.R.E. After Program Reinstated

pentucketporta on January 11, 2018

Detective Josh Sindoni completed his first day of the D.A.R.E. program at Groveland’s Dr. Elmer S. Bagnall Elementary School, teaching this kindergarten class about when and why to dial 911. Students gave a thumbs up when they thought a proposed situation required a 911 call. (Courtesy Photo Groveland Police Department)

GROVELAND — After a 12-year hiatus, the Groveland Police Department has reinstated its Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program, and Detective Josh Sindoni completed his first class at the Dr. Elmer S. Bagnall Elementary School this week.

On Monday, Jan. 8, Detective Sindoni visited the school’s kindergarten classes as part of an eight-week curriculum centered on helping students make responsible decisions.

In October, Detective Sindoni completed two weeks of D.A.R.E. training with the New Hampshire Fire Academy in Concord and is certified to teach the D.A.R.E. curriculum, which addresses drug use, violence, bullying, internet safety and other issues that impact students’ lives.

During his first week with students, Detective Sindoni went over the procedure for dialing 911. Simulating different scenarios, kindergartners learned when they should and should not call 911 using a thumbs up or thumbs down. Detective Sindoni also stressed the importance of learning their home address, as it will be the first thing a dispatcher asks for on a 911 call.

“The first session went great,” Detective Sindoni said. “All the kids were excited about learning and were engaged in the activity.”

Over the next several weeks, Detective Sindoni will return to each of Bagnall Elementary School’s kindergarten classes, educating students on topics including stranger danger, prescription drugs, bullying and understanding street signs.

Detective Sindoni’s work at the elementary school marks the revival of Groveland’s D.A.R.E. program, which was in place from 1993 to 2006 under the leadership of Lt. Dwight McDonald until it was halted due to lack of funding.

“We’re excited to have D.A.R.E. up and running after more than 10 years without it,” Chief Jeffrey Gillen said. “Through this program we’re reaching students at a young age to not only educate them about the basics of keeping themselves and others safe, but to help them make responsible and positive decisions into their adult lives.”

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Merrimac Fire Department Battles 3-Alarm Blaze in Apartment Complex

pentucketporta on November 17, 2017

MERRIMAC — Fire Chief Ralph Spencer and Police Chief Eric M. Shears report that a major fire destroyed an apartment building Friday morning.

Police officers and firefighters responded at 8:43 a.m. to the Greenleaf Park apartments, located at 1 Greenleaf Drive for an activated fire alarm. Fire was evident immediately upon arrival, and Working Fire, Second Alarm, and Third Alarm responses were requested in rapid succession, sending additional units and mutual aid to the scene.

One woman was trapped inside a second floor unit and jumped at the urging of Merrimac Police Officer Robert Coppola into his arms and was brought to safety. She was taken to Anna Jaques Hospital for evaluation.

The four-unit apartment building is considered a total loss. High winds fed the fire and necessitated a large response of personnel and apparatus. Chief Spencer praised the professionalism of the firefighters and other first responders at the scene, and is pleased to report that no civilians were seriously injured. The fire was contained to the original building and did not damage any other buildings in the complex.

Five people were displaced in the fire. Chief Spencer estimated the damage at $1 million.

The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation by the Merrimac Fire Department, Merrimac Police Department, and State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey’s office.

The building did not have sprinklers, as it was built before they were required.

The Merrimac Fire Department received extensive mutual aid from neighboring agencies and the Seacoast Chief Fire Officers Mutual Aid District, which send firefighters from throughout the Massachusetts and New Hampshire Seacoast to assist. Mutual aid was received from: Amesbury, Salisbury, West Newbury, Newburyport, Newton (New Hampshire) and East Kingston (New Hampshire) while fire units from Groveland, Georgetown, and Plaistow (New Hampshire) covered the Merrimac Fire Department during the incident.  The State Fire Marshal’s Office rebab unit also responded.

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West Newbury Police Staff Member To Participate In Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk

pentucketporta on August 22, 2017

Susan Curry and her daughter-in-law, Sarah Curry, have participated in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk together in recent years. (Courtesy Photo)

West Newbury Police Administrative Assistant Susan Curry will be walking in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk next month for the 29th straight year.

Curry has participated in the walk along the 26.2-mile Boston Marathon course each year since its inception in 1989. According to the Jimmy Fund, Curry is motivated by a desire to fight back after her mother succumbed to breast cancer in 1981 and will join an expected 9,500 fellow walkers in the nation’s most successful single-day fundraising walk on Sunday, Sept. 24.

Curry’s mom, Thelma Perry, passed away in 1981 and since then both Curry’s sister and husband have fought their own battles against different types of cancer.

“I don’t know of a single person who can say cancer has not affected their life in some way,” Curry said. “I am so grateful to all of my family members, friends and co-workers who have supported me this year and in years past.”

Members of the community can help Curry reach her $2,500 fundraising goal by clicking here.

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West Newbury Assistant Fire Chief Joins International Efforts to Battle Canadian Wildfires

pentucketporta on August 7, 2017

WEST NEWBURY — Chief Michael Dwyer announces that Assistant Fire Chief Ben Jennell is one of 16 Massachusetts firefighters who traveled to British Columbia, Canada to battle fires that have spread across more than a million acres of land.

Assistant Chief Jennell left on Aug. 3 for a two-week assignment through the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Bureau of Forestry and Fire Control and Department of Fish and Game. He joins an international crew of wildland firefighters involved in the effort.

More than 110 fires have spread throughout the region, causing thousands to evacuate their homes. Throughout their time in Canada, crews will focus on securing perimeters, protecting vital structures, working on the fire line, building fire breaks and containing fires.

On Aug. 6, Assistant Chief Jennell and the Massachusetts fire crew began their first assignment on Elephant Hill where 275,000 acres are actively burning.

“We couldn’t be more proud of Assistant Chief Jennell for using his expertise to help aid a neighboring country in its time of need,” Chief Dwyer said. “Crews have done an excellent job so far, working around the clock to help suppress the large-scale wildfires affecting British Columbia. I wish them good luck as they progress through this assignment.”

Assistant Chief Jennell has been a member of the DCR since 2010 and a longtime member of the West Newbury Fire Department.

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Merrimac Fire Department Purchases Automated CPR Device

pentucketporta on July 31, 2017

MERRIMAC — Chief Ralph Spencer is pleased to announce that the Merrimac Fire Department has purchased a new life-saving automated CPR device.

Merrimac Fire recently purchased the LUCAS 3 Chest Compression System, which performs consistent, accurate chest compressions without experiencing fatigue, as humans do when performing CPR.

The device costs $15,000 and was purchased through generous donations from local businesses and fundraising efforts by the department. Salter Bus Company, Rick and Eric Fournier of 1st Payroll and Haverhill Bank all contributed funds toward the life-saving device. Merrimac Fire personnel Will Howard, Shane Sevigny, Nichole Richard, Kris Smith, Brandon Cox and Jay Fournier spent a month fundraising the rest of the money to purchase the machine.

“During my 30 years in the fire service, I have always been impressed by the ability of members of the fire service to see a need and get things done to meet that need,” Deputy Chief Greg Habgood said.

Firefighters were trained on how to use the device on July 25 at the Merrimac Fire Department.

“I am very proud of the job this committee did to raise funds to purchase the LUCAS device and am thankful for the generous donations from our local businesses,” Chief Spencer said. “While we hope that we never have to use this machine, we have added a modern, state-of-the-art tool as a resource to keep our community safe.”

The LUCAS device will be stored on Merrimac Fire’s front-line ambulance, which is the primary ambulance that responds to medical calls.

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