Games, rides and plenty of food will be featured in this years carnival hosted by the Southwick Fireman’s Association. This year the carnival will be located on the grounds of the Powder Mill Middle School. (File photo by Frederick Gore)
SOUTHWICK – The annual Fireman’s Carnival could stay put this year, despite an initial hesitation on the part of the school department.
The carnival, set for July 18-21 this year, is traditionally held on school grounds. Because of construction set to begin at the schools this summer, Superintendent John Barry originally did not want to host the event. But he changed his mind.
“We are going to have a conversation about using the baseball outfield,” Barry told the School Committee this week, adding that he did not want fireworks on the grounds.
Committee member Darrell Cass asked if Whalley Park could be utilized instead.
“No,” said Barry, “it is closed for construction.”
The carnival would take place a little closer to the street if all parties agree to Barry’s suggestion.
“It would be 125 yards closer than it was before,” he said about concern for Powder Mill Road residents brought up during the meeting.
The carnival is organized by the Southwick Fireman’s Association. The carnival traditionally included fireworks, rides, games, food, live music and helicopter rides. Funds raised by the Association benefit high school scholarships, ambulance and firefighting equipment, and local donations.
Association President Michael Ferraraccio had been working with the Southwick Recreation Center to use their parking lot and said he is happy Barry is reconsidering using the school fields.
“I hope it all works out and we can work together,” said Ferraraccio.
The event this year is set to include the Sothwick Rotary Club’s annual Grillin Daze and the Association is working with the Economic Development Commission to include even more attractions.
Russell Fox, vice president of the Recreation Center, said he was glad to hear the news.
“It will be great if all the groups can come together and draw more people – it benefits everyone,” said Fox.
