■Dr. Randolph W. Bromery, acting chancellor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus for the last six months, was named chancellor yesterday by the university board of trustees. Contacted at his home this morning, Bromery said he was “both surprised and flattered” by his appointment.
■Russell W. Carrier of 341 Ryan Road today formally announced his candidacy for delegate to the Democratic National Convention in the April 25 primary. Carrier, who is pledged to the candidacy of South Dakota Sen. George McGovern, is a social studies teacher at Van Sickle Junior High School in Springfield.
■Three members of Boy Scout Troop 109 recently attained the rank of Eagle Scout, in an Eagle Court of Honor ceremony presided over by Richard Slabinski at the Blessed Sacrament Church in Northampton. The three are: Christopher Root, Daniel Gleason, and Henry Hurteau.
■In a move to improve overall community services and build stronger links between police, citizens and town officials, Amherst has hired its first human rights director. Shenandoah Titus, 38, was hired from among some 14 candidates for the job, said Town Manager Barry Del Castilho, who added that he is “very excited for the town.”
■“We don’t need any Clint Eastwoods meting out justice on the streets,” said Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan, referring to a self-defense bill before the state Legislature. “‘Stand Your Ground’ opens up a lot of possibilities of people not using good judgment,” said Sullivan. The stand-your-ground law allows people to use deadly force if they feel threatened with serious injury or death.
■A local couple has challenged area residents to donate $30,000 toward the construction of the next Habitat for Humanity home in Florence. Jack Hornor and his husband, Ron Skinn, have offered to match every dollar donated until April 30, up to $30,000, to make that home a reality for a family in need.