Home 2025 May (Page 4)

Month: May 2025

Free Music Fridays Return to MGM Springfield

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Summer in New England starts early this year as live music returns to MGM Springfield with the Free Music Fridays Concert Series.

Every Friday from May 23 to Sept. 5, some of the area’s most popular bands and national artists will perform on The Plaza at MGM Springfield in the city’s South End, starting at 7:30 p.m., (weather permitting), with the exception of the July 4th performance, which will begin at 6 p.m.

Kicking off the 2025 series is The Eagles Experience, billed as the most authentic tribute to the Eagles available today. Local favorites such as Trailer Trash, Back in Black, MALADO! and Aquanett will return to the stage, along with newcomers including Neon 90’s, Green Day tribute Dookie, the music of Billy Joel and Elton John with Billy and the Jets, and Springsteen rock-and-rollers, Tramps Like Us.

MGM Springfield will continue its partnership with the popular local brewery White Lion Brewing to provide guests with a wide selection of craft beer during each Free Music Fridays concert.

The series will also feature favorite local food trucks including Dev’s Mac n Eats, Batch Ice Cream, Wake the Dead Donuts, Jeannie’s Weenies, and the return of MGM Springfield’s Guac This Way.

Girls Inc. of the Valley Unveils New Program Space

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Girls Inc. of the Valley  unveiled its newly renovated program space yesterday on May 1 to celebrate the achievements of all girls and alumni leading up to Girls Inc. Week 2025 and Girls Inc. Together — Day of Giving.

Girls Inc. of the Valley is encouraging the community to support them in addressing a critical issue facing youth today: mental health.    

Girls Inc. of the Valley is joining forces with more than other Girls Inc. affiliates throughout the United States and Canada in Girls Inc. Week and Girls Inc. Together — A Day of Giving, to support the creation of a more balanced and sustainable future for girls. 

Guests and attendees had the opportunity to walk through Girls Inc. of the Valley’s newly renovated program space, and also had the opportunity to hear from award-winning children’s book author, and keynote speaker, Lesléa Newman. 

Girls Inc. Week will be taking place from May 5-9, and will culminate in the second-annual network-wide virtual fundraiser, Girls Inc. Together – A Day of Giving, taking place on May 8. Donations continue to be accepted, and all proceeds will support Girls Inc. of the Valley’s research-based programming, and improve access to, and quality of, mental health and wellness support.  

To be part of this effort, make a donation, and help all kids feel their best, contact Sasha at 413-335-0059 or [email protected]. 

The event was sponsored by bankESB, BonaVita Aesthetics, Comcast, Keiter Construction, Latka Printing, PeoplesBank, Sourcepass, and The Collins Companies.

 

 

Country Bank Names Kevin Hamel to Board of Trustees

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Daily News

WARE — Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Mass., announced the appointment of Kevin Hamel, CISM, to its board of trustees.

Hamel brings more than 30 years of experience managing information technology, cybersecurity, and risk management in the financial and healthcare sectors. With more than 15 years of direct board interaction at the executive level, he has cultivated a deep understanding of today’s organizations’ strategic and operational challenges.

“Joining Country Bank’s Board of Trustees is a tremendous honor,” said Hamel. “I’m inspired by the bank’s mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of its customers and communities. I look forward to contributing my experience in technology, cybersecurity, and risk management to help guide strategic decisions that support innovation, resilience, and continued growth.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Kevin to our Board,” said James Phaneuf, chair of the board of trustees. “Kevin’s experience leading IT and risk management, along with his proven ability to lead high-performing teams, will strengthen our governance and enhance the Bank’s strategic direction.” 

UMass, Herrell’s Partner for Ice Cream Product-development Competition

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Daily News

AMHERST — UMass Amherst’s Department of Food Science and Herrell’s Ice Cream announced that this year’s Annual Ice Cream Product Development Competition will be held on May 8, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at Furcolo Hall, room 125 (813 North Pleasant Street, Amherst).

“This year we have five teams competing, each with unique flavor profiles and ingredients; students applied their Food Science knowledge and techniques to study the flavor, texture, and overall sensory qualities of their product,” said Charmaine Koo, this year’s instructor for the class. “We’re so excited to showcase this to everyone. The first 100 people to arrive will have the opportunity to try each flavor and vote for the People’s Choice Award.”

Judging will be done by Herrell’s Ice Cream President and CEO, Judy Herrell, and Herrell’s Ice Cream & Kitchen Production Manager, Rose Ritter. The criterion for judging includes texture, overrun, sustainability, olfactory, and taste.

“This year’s teams have come up with cool and fun exciting ice cream ideas,” said Herrell. “Several of which are unique and tricky to make. It will be a fun-filled event with new ideas in ice cream development.”

The final winning flavor will be announced at the end of the presentations.

Three Easthampton Farms Receive Local Farmer Awards

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Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — Three Easthampton farms — Underline Farm, Mountain View Farm, and Park Hill Orchard — are among the 116 recipients of this year’s Local Farmer Awards, a community-funded grant initiative that supports farm improvements across Western Mass.

Now in its 11th year, the Local Farmer Awards program has granted a record $267,850 to farmers across the region in 2025. The Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation leads the program in partnership with Big Y, the Mass. Society for Promoting Agriculture, the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation, and a network of local funders.

Each grant of up to $2,500 helps farms invest in essential infrastructure and equipment. Easthampton’s Underline Farm will use its award to purchase grain silos.

The Local Farmer Awards have a broad impact across the region, with the majority of funding going to farms in Hampshire and Franklin counties. The funded projects range from new livestock equipment and grain storage to permanent infrastructure and technological upgrades.

To learn more about the Local Farmer Awards and view the full list of 2025 recipients, visit https://hgf.org/programs/local-farmer-awards.

Freedom Credit Union Supports A Bed for Every Child

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — During May, Freedom Credit Union is inviting the community to donate money at any of its branches throughout Western Mass. to benefit A Bed for Every Child.

The Lynn-based organization builds and donates beds for children who lack proper sleeping arrangements. 

“Every child deserves a comfortable place where big dreams can happen,” said Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch. “We’re excited to support this effort because we know a good night’s sleep can boost focus, mental health and well-being.”

A Bed for Every Child teams up with community groups such as schools and healthcare agencies to identify needs and engage volunteers to participate in the Build a Bed Project. Statistics show that as housing expenses skyrocket, essentials like beds often get passed over. A Bed for Every Child strives to make sure Massachusetts children are not deprived of this basic necessity.

This donation is part of Freedom Credit Union’s ongoing effort to collect donations for a different charity each month as part of its Month of Giving campaign. This year, Freedom asked its members to nominate charities.

Holyoke, Chicopee, Springfield Head Start Turns 60

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — May marks 60 years since the inception of Head Start, the nation’s most comprehensive early childhood education program. Since the organization’s founding in 1965, Head Start has helped more than 37 million children across the United States prepare for school and build strong foundations for lifelong learning and well-being, while also providing resources for families and caregivers.
Locally, Holyoke, Chicopee, Springfield Head Start (HCS Head Start) has been a proud part of this 60-year legacy — serving thousands of children and families in neighborhoods across Western Mass. With a mission to provide every child with the opportunity to thrive, HCS Head Start continues to serve as a cornerstone of high-quality early education, comprehensive services, and holistic family support.

Head Start was founded as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, and despite current proposed federal cuts, remains committed to providing vital early learning services for young children and families. Today, Head Start and Early Head Start serve nearly 1 million children each year — providing early learning, health screenings, nutritious meals, social-emotional support, and family resources at no cost to eligible families.

“Head Start’s birthday is a celebration of what’s possible when communities invest in their youngest learners,” said Nicole Blais, CEO of HCS Head Start. “We’re incredibly proud to do this work, and although we are enjoying the celebration and reflection, we’re also reminded this isn’t just a look back; rather a launchpad for what comes next. At HCS Head Start we’re energized for the future as we continue to innovate, adapt, and support the next generation.”
To mark this milestone throughout May, HCS Head Start will host birthday-themed activities across its sites to honor the impact of Head Start in area communities, from classroom celebrations to staff appreciation events.

MGM Slates ‘Tribute to Taylor Swift’

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Legends in Concert will present ‘A Tribute to Taylor Swift (Legends’ Version)’, starring Elizabeth Burnett, at MGM Springfield’s ARIA Ballroom on June 28 at 7 p.m.

Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. MGM Rewards members can be among the first to get tickets with exclusive presale access today.

Burnett was born and raised in Charleston, S.C. Her musical training began in choirs at church and school. At age 15, her brother taught her to play Taylor Swift’s “Love Story” on the guitar. Playing guitar and singing instantly fascinated Elizabeth, and in Taylor Swift she found a musical role model and inspiration for her style.

Burnett first performed as Taylor Swift at an elementary school. This quickly led to performances at birthday parties, charitable events and other social occasions. More recently, she has received main stage billing in national festivals. Her success led her to pursue being a Taylor Swift tribute artist more seriously. Having been an avid Taylor Swift fan since 2006, Burnett has learned Taylor’s entire catalogue and matches the charisma and personality of her idol on stage.

Legends in Concert is known as the pioneer of live tribute shows. Celebrated worldwide for its award-winning productions, Legends features accomplished tribute artists who not only bear an uncanny resemblance to iconic stars but also sing live, backed by a talented cast of singers, dancers and live musicians.  

For more information on Legends in Concert presents A Tribute to Taylor Swift (Legends’ Version) at the ARIA Ballroom, visit MGMSpringfield.com.

GCAi’s Nathan Dion Earns New Certifications

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Daily News

 SPRINGFIELD — Nathan Dion, a digital public relations analyst for Garvey Communication Associates Inc. (GCAi), has earned several new digital marketing certifications from LinkedIn and Meta.

Dion worked for two years under the supervision of Los Angeles-based James Garvey, vice president of Digital Marketing for GCAi, before taking over specific client accounts. His new certifications include:

  • LinkedIn Advertising Fundamentals: Launching successful LinkedIn advertising campaigns, optimizing targeting and reporting;
  • LinkedIn Advertising Marketing Strategy: Full-funnel marketing strategy and using LinkedIn for brand awareness and lead generation; and
  • Meta Digital Marketing Associate: Campaign creation, management, and reporting through Meta Ads Manager.

“Nate has entered a rare space in modern public relations – having expertise in digital content creation and dissemination,” said” John Garvey, founder of GCAi. “The spray and pray days of pestering reporters and readers are over. Both want relevant content delivered to their door, and Nate is an expert in accomplishing that.” 

Dion is also an experienced video producer and has worked on video productions for automotive, financial services, and retail clients, managing the film crew and working in the GCAi edit suite. Some of his most recent work includes pro-bono videos for Square One, Tech Foundry and Helix Human Services. 

Dion is a Westfield State University graduate, earning a bachelor’s degree in Communication with a dual concentration in Media Arts and Analysis and Public Relations. He also minored in Graphic Design.

Springfield Museums Slates ‘Astronomy Day 2025’

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Museums presents ‘Astronomy Day 2025,’ an annual event that is part of a nationwide, grass-roots movement to bring astronomy to the people, on May 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Attendees will enjoy hands-on astronomy activities for all ages, planetarium shows, and (weather permitting) sunspot viewing. All activities are free with museum admission.

Astronomy Day is co-hosted by the Springfield STARS Club. Founded in 1934, its mission is to inform and motivate people of all ages and backgrounds in the mysteries and science of space at all levels, near and far. Members will be on hand to meet visitors and talk all things modern astronomy.

Beginning in California in 1973, Astronomy Day was created by president of the Astronomical Assoc. of Northern California Doug Berger to bring astronomy directly to the public. Instead of trying to entice people to travel far distances to participate in astronomy, they would set up their telescopes in urban, highly populated areas so that anyone passing by could enjoy the activities. Now celebrated both nationally and internationally, Astronomy Day is the perfect time for people of all ages to explore the stars with their community and connect with local astronomy enthusiasts.

“Astronomy is one of the core strengths of our museum,” said Jenny Powers, director of the Springfield Science Museum. “It is always fun and exciting to share the wonders of the cosmos with our visitors. Everyone will enjoy the activities and programs we have planned.”
All planetarium shows are free on Saturday, May 3. Tickets for each show are limited, and available first come, first served:
One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure in English, 11:15 a.m.
Big Bird, Elmo and their friend from China, Hu HuZhu, take viewers on a journey of discovery. The show aims to nurture a child’s natural sense of wonder about the night sky while forging cross-cultural connections and bridging kids across nations through a common bond in learning about the sky together. Recommended for the youngest visitors.

Beyond the Telescope: Many Ways to Enjoy Astronomy, 1 p.m.
Learn about the diverse range of astronomy activities that are available to everyone.

Virtual Space Trip to the Planets and Beyond, 2 p.m.
Using real data from NASA science missions, set foot on other planets and venture out into the galaxy and beyond.

Your Night Sky Live, 3 p.m.
Using the historic star projector and effects from the Zeiss full-dome system, museum staff guides the audience through the stars, constellations, and other sights in the night sky that can be found over the next few weeks.

MassMutual is the season supporter of the Springfield Museums.

Square One Supporters Gather for Annual Kentucky Derby Party

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — On Saturday at 5 p.m. The Armory at MGM Springfield will the setting for hats, horses and hors d’oeuvres to celebrate the 150th Annual Kentucky Derby.

The sold-out event, presented by lead sponsors PeoplesBank, Alekman DiTusa, and Meridian Industrial Group, will raise much-needed funds for Square One’s programs and services.

“Short of heading to Churchill Downs, we cannot think of any better way to enjoy the greatest two minutes in sports,” said Kristine Allard, vice president of Development & Communications for Square One. “We are so grateful to our sponsors and guests for joining us for what promises to be a great party, in support of the work Square One does every day to support our community’s children and families.”

Since 2016, this annual event has become a signature fundraiser for Square One. Decked out in their derby best, 250 guests will watch the race on a giant screen, while enjoying traditional mint juleps, and participating in raffles and a silent auction.

In addition to the lead sponsors, the derby party is being supported by USI Insurance, INSA, Agawam Crossing Dental, UMCASS Amherst Center at Springfield, CJC Lighting & Projection, Michael’s Party Rental, Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone, Napatree Capital, deVillier Petrangelo Wealth Management, Events by Jackie M, Fontaine Bros., Eversource, Polish National Credit Union, St. Germain Investments, Fiducient Advisors, Health New England, Antonacci Family, Tim & Maureen Knight, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., 6 Brick’s, Rocky’s Ace Hardware, Alera Group, Window World, Flannery McFall Foundation, Marcotte Ford, Berkshire Bank, NEPM, East Springfield Veterinary Hospital, Northern Tree, NRG Realty, Andrew’s Associates, Paylocity, ChikMedia, Bay Path University, Fathers & Sons, Springfield Housing Authority, and Freedom Credit Union.

For more information on Square One or to purchase tickets, visit www.startatsquareone.org.

Ventfort Hall Slates Ghost Tours

By
Daily News

LENOX — Robert Oakes, author of Ghosts of the Berkshires, will lead tours through the rooms and halls of Ventfort Hall, sharing tales of its hauntings, on May 10 and 24 at 7 p.m.

Visitors can stand in the places where the eerie encounters occurred, listen to the first-hand accounts of those who experienced them, and maybe even experience something unusual themselves.

Oakes is an author, teacher, storyteller, and performing songwriter. He has written three books, The Ghostly Tales of the Berkshires (2023), Ghosts of Northwestern New Jersey (2022), and Ghosts of the Berkshires (2020). He has also released numerous recordings of original songs.

Since 2010, he has led immersive ghost storytelling experiences at historic locations in the Berkshires, including Ventfort Hall and Edith Wharton’s The Mount. He has also given talks and readings and led a writing workshop at Arrowhead, home of Herman Melville. He has appeared on Syfy’s Ghost Hunters, Jeff Belanger’s New England Legends series on PBS, and The Apple Seed show on BYUradio and has been featured in The Boston Globe, The Berkshire Eagle, and numerous other media outlets.

Admission to the May 10 and 24 tours is $30, and minimum age to attend is age 12. Reservations are strongly recommended as tickets are limited. Walk-ins accommodated as space allows. For reservations visit https://gildedage.org/pages/calendar or (413) 637-3206.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated by the Mass. Cultural Council as an important partner of the Lenox Cultural District, one of the five such Berkshire County districts, Ventfort Hall Gilded Age Mansion and Museum was built in 1893 for George and Sarah Morgan, the sister of legendary financier J. Pierpont Morgan.

Self-guided tours of the historic mansion are offered daily, as well as talks, such exhibitions as the Bellefontaine Collection, concerts, theater, ghost tours and hunts as well as other programs.