Springfield Park celebrates renovation with new patio
Italian Feast returns to Springfield's South End with reopening of historic social club
The Jaime Ulloa Park is a stomping ground for many residents in the north end of Springfield. Some issues with the pavilion in the park made it hard for retired groups like the Domino Club to enjoy.
'The water was leaking from the roof, you couldn't play when it was raining, and it was uncomfortable,' said Jose Riveria, a Domino Club member.
City Councilor Maria Perez brought the concerns to Mayor Domenic Sarno once she learned of the current conditions, and in a joint effort along with park management, it was time for a change.
'I came here every afternoon and I check how they are doing, what is needed,' said Perez.
This t$225,000 project helped renovate new tables, posts, but a few benches were kept to keep the nostalgic feel of the area. It was all made official in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The Morgan Street Domino Club has been playing in the same spot for over 30 years, it's their home, and they're glad that they were heard. Playing dominoes isn't just an activity for the Latino community here; it's essential to embracing their culture.
'This is the beautiful things that happen to us. And we appreciate it from the bottom of our hearts,' said Tony, another Domino Club member.
A new mural is possibly in the works as an addition to the new pavilion, and it might even honor the local legacy of the Domino Club.
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.
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Vox
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- Vox
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Los Angeles Times
2 days ago
- Los Angeles Times
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New York Post
5 days ago
- New York Post
Husband of Telemundo host and ex-beauty queen stole $1.6M from fitness influencer, lawsuit alleges
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