Dog deemed nuisance by Erving Selectboard
ERVING — The Selectboard declared Jewels, a blue heeler and pit bull mix owned by Kristal Brow, a nuisance during a dog hearing on Monday, July 13, following a May 5 incident at Weatherheads Apartments.
A report about the May 5 incident by Erving Police Sgt. Adam Paicos that was included in the meeting materials states that complainant Marcie Rockwood spoke to him about Jewels leaping from a second-story window and attacking her dog, a chihuahua mix named Benjamin. Paicos’ report said Brow confirmed that Jewels did leap from the window that was normally shut, and the window had since been closed.
Paicos’ report and a review of the incident by Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Officer Kyle Dragon both note that officers were unable to visually confirm any injuries to Rockwood’s dog, and Rockwood said there were no injuries to herself or the dog after the incident on May 5. However, on May 8, Paicos said Rockwood claimed she and her dog did have injuries, but there was no vet visit to document them. Erving Police Chief Robert Holst said that no documents have been provided.
Following a discussion between Dragon, the Selectboard and town counsel, the decision was made to issue the nuisance dog order and place conditions that will be drafted by the town, based on a recommendation from the Sheriff’s Office.
New RiverCulture website launches
MONTAGUE — The RiverCulture website has a new look after a redesign to highlight the weekly newsletter, and showcase the cultural events and history of the five villages.
RiverCulture Director Suzanne LoManto presented the new website to the Selectboard last week and explained some of the new designs and features, including an update to the RiverCulture logo, and website tabs dedicated to the Cultural District, Montague’s Indigenous culture, cultural attractions and events.
The website was designed with help from Peter Chilton of Nova Motorcycles, and with feedback from the RiverCulture Steering Committee, local businesses and the public.
“We hope it struck the right balance of representing a fun look, but also really clear and really useful,” LoManto said.
A special feature of the website that LoManto highlighted is tied directly to the newsletter, which is that when an event passes, it comes off the website’s main page. Visitors can view these events when scrolling down on the homepage.
RiverCulture is the creative economy program for the town of Montague. The new website is live now and available at riverculture.org.
Gill looks to clarify tree warden responsibilities
GILL — Tree Warden Joe Williams is expected to bring forward a proposal for how his elected post as tree warden can best operate, following a discussion with the Selectboard last week over the required duties of the position.
During the discussion, Williams presented what responsibilities he believes he has per state law, while Highway Superintendent John Miner contends that certain requirements are not being met, including documentation of any tree cutting or removals.
To help clarify responsibilities, Williams was asked to write out a proposal of what his position should look like from his perspective, which can be presented back to the Selectboard. Board members can then work with Miner to begin getting a better understanding of what responsibilities each person has.
Wednesday night concerts underway in Montague Center
MONTAGUE CENTER — The Falltown String Band and Becky & John will perform at the First Congregational Church at 4 North St. on Wednesdays, July 22, and July 29, respectively, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
These two concerts are free to attend, and guests are encouraged to bring a chair and a beverage. The concerts will be held rain or shine.
July 22: Brick House holding outdoor family program
TURNERS FALLS — The Brick House Community Resource Center’s Parent and Family Program will be held at the sunshade at Unity Park, 56 First St., on Wednesday, July 22, from 10 a.m. to noon.
Parents and caregivers will have an opportunity to get together while their children play on the playground. Snacks will be provided. For more information, contact Stacey Langknecht at slangknecht@brickhousecommunity.org or 413-800-2496.