In the News

HOLYOKE — A bright, rainbow sign greets visitors at the entrance to Harper’s Haven, a new playscape at Community Field that honors Harper Violet Brewer, who passed away at 15 months old in March.

Harper’s grandmother, Laura Ferriter, presided over a ribbon-cutting Wednesday that welcomed families as well as U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, state Sen. John Velis, state Representative-elect Patricia Duffy and city officials.

The joyful sounds of children at play echoed throughout the ceremony. The playground provides a safe and welcoming escape for toddlers, and a treehouse loaded with sensory games anchors the space.

Ferriter secured $38,000 in donations for the playscape that adjoins a swingset Harper often frolicked on. “We wanted to have a nice memorial for her. We thought it would complement the great facilities here already, something for toddlers,” Ferriter said after the ceremony.

Ferriter thanked Parks and Recreation Director Terry Shepard and City Engineer Bob Peirent for supporting the project and offering guidance. “We worked as a team to get this in place. I sent out letters, and we were able to secure private donations for almost all of it,” she said.

Major donors included Health New England and The Positive Regard Network/Center School, where Ferriter works. The Center School matched employees’ contributions. “It’s in memory of Harper but also the children of Holyoke and surrounding areas,” she said.

The Holyoke Community Preservation Act Committee awarded a $3,000 grant for fencing. The Hampshire Fence Company installed the fence free of charge.

“Harper was the most joyful little girl you ever met. We were so honored to have her as our grandchild. She loved to come to play here on the swings,” Ferriter said. The rainbow signs reflect Harper’s spirit and legacy.

Neal said the ribbon-cutting reflected a “Holyoke moment” involving people he’s known his entire life, the Ferriters and the Brewers.

“As we’re bonded by Harper’s memory, we’re also bonded by the consciousness of the laughter of those children in the background,” Neal said. “We know the memory of Harper will live on through those thousands of children over the years who will visit Harper’s Haven.”

In 2012, Community Field underwent a $3.1 million renovation. Neal recalled touring the park with then Ward 6 Councilor Todd McGee, who now represents Ward 7.

“I was inspired by what the people of Holyoke meant by the term community. We all pulled the wagon together,” Neal said. “There will be countless days for parents and grandparents when they come by this small piece of property. They will have fond remembrances of what this young life meant to them.”

The park remains a popular spot for local families, especially the playscapes, splash pad and dog park.

McGee said, “This is a beautiful project for Community Field because it ties everything into it. When I was the ward councilor, Community Field was pretty much shut down. It had Jersey barriers, and it was a mess.”

Harper’s Haven adds to Community Field’s ongoing transformation, McGee said. “Adding this portion to the park for the little kids, this makes it a true community park,” he said. “It’s awesome to have this here.”

Velis, elected to a full state Senate term in November, said, “I am constantly reminded by how much love and compassion there is for people in this community.”