Westhampton eyes better communications in storm emergencies

Following a public meeting last month on emergency management practices, town officials say they will work on improving communications during weather emergencies and will set up a daytime warming center at Westhampton Elementary School.

Division 3 wrestling: Ben Galica of Hampshire Regional wins sectional title

NORTHFIELD - Hampshire Regional senior Ben Galica added another win to his already impressive season Saturday, as he earned his first championship at the Western Massachusetts Division 3 Wrestling Tournament at Pioneer Valley.

Frankie Weir, Nate Ghareeb pile up wins for Hampshire Regional wrestling

WESTHAMPTON - Frankie Weir has already wrestled his way into the 100-win club at Hampshire Regional. With a strong postseason, teammate Nate Ghareeb can do the same.

Daniel J. Fisher, outdoorsman

HATFIELD - Daniel Joseph Fisher, 54, known to many as "Wild Dan the Mountain Man," formerly of Westhampton, died Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012, at his residence in Hatfield.

He was born March 3, 1957, in Northampton, the son of Clifford and Elizabeth (Balise) Fisher.

Kieran Ramsey leads Holyoke Catholic basketball over Sci-Tech

Kieran Ramsey kept her recent string of strong play going as the Holyoke Catholic girls basketball team defeated Sci-Tech 52-35 at Holyoke Community College on Saturday.

Ramsey, who is averaging eight points per game on the season, has scored 47 points in her last three games for the Gaels (7-7, 4-2 Bi-County West).

Westhampton woman's golden years tarnished after Friendly's bankruptcy

WESTHAMPTON - The letter Mae Pelissier received from the Friendly Ice Cream Corp. was dated Jan. 5, but did not arrive in her mailbox until the 13th. It did not contain good news. It began, "Dear Retiree," and said benefits Pelissier had earned from a 28-year career as a Friendly's restaurant employee were being terminated as of Jan. 9 as a result of the Wilbraham-based company's bankruptcy filing.

Briefs

Amherst

VOLUNTEERS WANTED: Hospice of the Fisher Home in North Amherst will hold volunteer training sessions beginning in March. Adults interested in visiting with patients, providing emotional support and assisting with kitchen chores are welcome to apply to become volunteers.