Mayor Domenic J. Sarno joined today with President of the Springfield St. Patrick’s Committee Siobhan Cullen to visit with the carpentry students in Mr. Stevens class at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy. Mayor Sarno recognized the students for their work on the Springfield Float which took home second prize for Irish Theme at this year’s Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day parade. The Springfield St. Patrick’s Committee and the Putnam carpentry students designed the float with the theme “Books are worth their weight in gold” which served as a tribute to Irish authors and to Springfield being home to many scholars and educational institutions.
Mayor Sarno presented a proclamation declaring today “Putnam Carpentry Day” in the City of Springfield and recognized the students as well teacher Mr. David Stevens for using their time and talents to construct such a beautiful float and for bringing home the second prize. Mayor Sarno also presented a citation to President Siobhan Cullen and the Springfield St. Patrick's Parade Committee for their excellent partnership and for earning the Second Prize.
Mayor Sarno was very happy to have a moment to chat with Principal George Johnson. He also popped into Putnam’s PE class where they were learning “retro” schoolyard games like 4-square. Mayor Sarno also took a moment to remember the late Judge Boyle who was a proud Putnam graduate and is remembered with a memorial street sign at the school, which was completely rebuilt in 2012.
Mayor Sarno states, “I want to thank Mr. Stevens and the carpentry department for welcoming us today. From the freshmen in the program just starting out, to the juniors and seniors who are getting ready to start their careers, you are doing an excellent job. I am also grateful to President Siobhan Cullen and the Parade Committee for their work year-round to make sure Springfield is represented well at the annual Holyoke Parade. The collaboration between the carpentry students and the Parade Committee produced such a beautiful and meaningful float that made us all very proud. Thank you for your dedication and congratulations on earning Second Prize! Continued success to each and every one of you.”
“I also want to commend Principal Johnson, all of the students, staff, teachers, and parents at Putnam Academy – every time I visit the school, the grounds, hallways, and classrooms are immaculate. You should be very proud of yourselves for maintaining such an excellent environment.”
“P.S. Thank you to the PE class for letting me join in on four-square today – what a throw back to my White Street School Days!”