*** MEDIA ADVISORY ***
March 7, 2015
Media Briefing 7:00 p.m.
The primary goal for March 7 was to provide a safe environment free from any large scale disturbances. The Town of Amherst believes this has been a success. Amherst will maintain vigilance tonight to ensure the safety of the community. Police officers staged in various locations within the community reported cooperation, respect and positive communication with the community members and students. Amherst Police reported only 3 arrests and the University of Massachusetts Police reported 3 arrests. At a free afternoon concert for UMASS students at the Mullins Center Amherst Fire treated 19 persons and transported 1 to Cooley Dickinson Hospital.
Extensive planning, preparation and collaboration with community stakeholders has been instrumental to ensure the overall success of the daytime events. Amherst Town Manager John Musante said, “This has been a true team effort. I would like to thank those partners that were vital to this operation, including the Amherst and UMASS Police, Amherst Fire Department, University Administration, students, law enforcement mutual aid partners, downtown bar owners, retail establishments and property owners.
UMass Amherst officials praised the cooperation of students and the efforts of police in promoting safe and responsible behavior throughout Amherst on March 7.
Following a successful concert at the Mullins Center that was attended by nearly 6,000 UMass Amherst students, Enku Gelaye, vice chancellor for student affairs and campus life, said, “Our students rose to the occasion and demonstrated their UMass pride by acting respectfully and responsibly. They played an active role in the planning of today’s events and their efforts really paid off.”
She also credited months of extensive planning with Town of Amherst officials, including the police and fire departments, for creating an atmosphere of respect and cooperation among students, residents and law enforcement personnel.
“I’m grateful for the way we are engaging each other to make our community a safe place,” said Gelaye.