The city of Forest City is mourning the loss of Mayor Byron (Barney) Ruiter, 72. City Administrator Daisy Huffman issued a statement on his July 18 death. “Barney Ruiter, Forest City mayor for six ...

Like all of you, I was deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected death of Mayor Barney Ruiter. As news of Barney’s death spread, it was like a pall of black smoke hung over the community. I think ...

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – It’s been more than half a century since the Springfield Elks Lodge first launched its youth fishing derby at Forest Park’s Barney Pond. It’s an event for children to enjoy ...