Bright Nights trip a hit with seniors

Date: 12/1/2009

By G. Michael Dobbs

Managing Editor



CHICOPEE -- Mayor Michael Bissonnette's Special Projects Manager Heather Canady said last week there has been an overwhelming response for the free trip to Bright Nights from both seniors and sponsors this year.

This year's trip marks the second time the Bissonnette Administration has organized a free bus trip to see the lighting display at Springfield's Forest Park and Canady said about 600 seniors will be participating.

"It's doubled in size from last year," she told Reminder Publications.

Seniors must have a reservation to participate and Canady said the trip is essentially full, with up to 12 buses supplied by King Ward Bus Line viewing the holiday show on Dec. 16 and 17.

The trip includes a spaghetti supper at the Knights of Columbus on Granby Road.

The trip is free to seniors and to taxpayers as well, as contributions from a variety of area businesses and individuals have made the outing possible, Canady added. Among the businesses are: Geno's Auto Service, Biermann Services, Dave's Truck Repair, Ludwin Oil, Leclerc brothers, Inc., Phil Beaulieu & Son Home Improvement, Flanagan's Package Store, Golden Mirror Beauty Salon, Westover Building Supply, Alarm Works, St. Pierre-Phaneauf Funeral Chapels, J. Polep Distribution, Valley Opportunity Council, Ames Privilege, Elms College, Chicopee Savings, Peoples Bank, Ross Insurance, Burger King and many more.