Day: April 20, 2026

Eastern States Exposition Welcomes Samantha Sawyer to Marketing Team

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Daily News

Samantha Sawyer

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Samantha Sawyer has started a full-time venture as brand creative coordinator at Eastern States Exposition (ESE). In this role, she will serve as the primary graphic designer for ESE and support the digital content manager by creating photos, videos, and multimedia assets for social media, digital ads, and websites.

Sawyer was an accomplished student during her undergraduate career, earning a spot on the dean’s list and a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Columbia College in Chicago. Subsequently, she worked for Bezz Training Club as a social media manager and graphic designer, then took on the same positions and later a promotion as marketing and brand manager at Matthews Fan Co. She brings experience in Adobe Suite, production, editing, and brand strategizing to her new role.

However, her relevant experience is not exclusive to marketing endeavors; she spent lots of time at the Middlefield Fair with her family as a child and currently supports content creation for that fair’s social media.

“I’m really looking forward for developing materials that illustrate the legacy of ESE and the Big E,” she said.

As brand creative coordinator, Sawyer will produce and edit short-form video content for a variety of programs, from agriculture to entertainment to community involvement. Hers will be the desk from which most digital and print marketing materials are designed.

“I was really looking for a role that felt aligned with my values,” Sawyer admitted. “I’ve found something very fulfilling here — something I really care about. I love the vibe at Eastern States Exposition, and I look forward to proving that I’m a great fit.”

Nominations Open for Third Annual Age of Excellence Awards

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Daily News

LONGMEADOW — Celebrating achievement, purpose, and possibility at every stage of life, Glenmeadow announced the opening of nominations for the Age of Excellence Awards: Celebrating Success Over 60 — now entering its third year of honoring remarkable community members.

Building on the success of the past two years, this signature event continues to spotlight older adults whose lives reflect vitality, resilience, and meaningful contribution.

“Each year, we are honored to celebrate extraordinary people whose stories remind us that purpose, passion, and achievement grow richer with age,” said Kathy Martin, president and CEO of Glenmeadow. “The Age of Excellence Awards shine a light on those who continue to inspire, lead, and make a lasting impact in our community.”

The Age of Excellence Awards honor individuals age 60 and above who are making significant contributions in a wide range of pursuits. It may be through innovative career achievements, active community involvement, ongoing personal development, or outstanding commitment to others. Rather than serving as a lifetime achievement recognition, the Age of Excellence highlights those who continue to engage and inspire, even after the traditional age of retirement.

Anyone who knows someone whose journey motivates, uplifts, and reminds others that success has no age limit is encouraged to submit a nomination.

Nominations are open through June 14 and may be submitted online at glenmeadow.org. Paper copy nomination forms are available at Glenmeadow’s concierge desk, or a PDF may be downloaded from the event page and mailed to: Age of Excellence Awards, 24 Tabor Crossing, Longmeadow, MA 01106. A distinguished panel of community leaders will thoughtfully review all submissions and select this year’s honorees.

Award recipients will be celebrated during an inspiring ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at Twin Hills Country Club. The evening will bring together honorees, family members, friends, and supporters for a memorable celebration of exceptional achievements and lasting impact.

For more information on the Age of Excellence Awards, including sponsorship opportunities, ticket purchases, and submitting nominations, visit glenmeadow.org or email Rania Kfuri at [email protected].

Farm Credit East Seeks Modern Agriculture Photos for Chance to Win $100

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Daily News

ENFIELD, Conn. — Farm Credit East is currently seeking creative images of modern Northeast agriculture, commercial fishing, and forest products to fill the pages of its 2027 Agricultural Views calendar. Upload picturesque images from the farm, woods, or dock at farmcrediteast.com/calendar by July 31 for a chance to win $100.

“Each year, we receive upwards of 800 images from dozens of talented photographers showcasing progressive agriculture operations,” said Kristie Matuszewski, Farm Credit East’s director of Marketing and Communications. “We look for fresh imagery that represents Northeast farming, horticulture, forestry, and commercial fishing during every season, as well as photographs that celebrate rural life in New England, New York, or New Jersey.”

Photos are selected based on technical quality, clarity, and composition, as well as photos that capture unique views of modern agriculture and rural life. From all entries, 14 photos will be selected for a $100 prize each. Additional photos will be selected to fill the calendar pages, each earning a $25 prize. Winning photographs will be featured in Farm Credit East’s 2027 calendar.

Only digital photos are accepted. Contest rules and an entry form, as well as inspiration from previous calendars, can be found at farmcrediteast.com/calendar.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Volunteers Come Together to Bowl for Kids’ Sake

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Daily News

PITTSFIELD — On April 11, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western Massachusetts (BBBSWM) supporters took to the alleys of K&M Bowling in Pittsfield. The event is meant to celebrate the volunteer fundraisers who support the agency’s programming throughout the region at the first of three Bowl for Kids’ Sake (BFKS) events.

“Our team is excited to participate in our second BFKS fundraiser to expand awareness of the work of BBBSWM and the life-changing impact mentoring can have on youth and their families,” said Stacy Parsons, the newest member of the BBBSWM board and captain of the Jury’s Still Out fundraising team. “Folks have created raffles, hosted trivia events, and reached out to their friends and family to raise funds that go back into our communities. It’s amazing to see our efforts make such a difference in the lives of children throughout the Berkshires.”

All funding raised will be used by BBBSWM to support youth programming across Western Mass.

“I am thankful to the volunteers, fundraisers, community members, donors, staff, and our board members for playing their part in this event. We’d also like to thank our presenting sponsor, Country Bank, for making any of this possible at all,” BBBSWM CEO David Beturne said. “It isn’t always the right time to volunteer as a mentor. Events like Bowl for Kids’ Sake are a great way to volunteer with us until you feel ready to support a kid in the community.”

Two more events are scheduled for Saturday, May 2 at 10 a.m. at French King Bowling in Erving, and Wednesday, May 6 (with a corporate mixer-focused event) from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Bowlero in Chicopee. Those interested in registering should visit beacons.ai/bbbswm.

MountainOne Announces Nick Darrow as AVP, Human Resources Officer

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Daily News

Nick Darrow

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne announced the appointment of Nick Darrow as assistant vice president, Human Resources officer, based in the company’s North Adams corporate office.

In his role, Darrow leads recruitment and onboarding initiatives while supporting professional development, employee engagement, and recognition efforts across the organization. He also contributes to a wide range of HR programs and operations, helping to strengthen the overall employee experience.

Darrow holds a professional in human resources certification from the Human Resource Certification Institute. Prior to joining MountainOne, he served as a Human Resources generalist at Greylock Federal Credit Union. He serves on the executive board of the Berkshire County affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

“I am thrilled to welcome Nick to the HR team and to the MountainOne family,” said Beth Petropulos, senior vice president, senior HR and SAFE Act officer at MountainOne. “He brings a thoughtful, people-centered approach to his work. Nick’s energy, genuine enthusiasm, and professionalism will strengthen our efforts and the impact we have in supporting our people and helping them build meaningful careers with us.”

MassHire Holyoke Career Center Celebrates 30 Years of Workforce Impact

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — The MassHire Holyoke Career Center will mark a major milestone with its 30th anniversary celebration on Thursday, April 30 at Mill 1 at Open Square in Holyoke, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The event will bring together community leaders, employers, partners, and residents to celebrate three decades of strengthening the regional workforce and expanding economic opportunity.

For 30 years, MassHire Holyoke has served as a critical connector between job seekers and employers, helping thousands of individuals access meaningful employment while supporting local businesses with talent, training, and workforce solutions. What began as CareerPoint of Holyoke has grown into a cornerstone of opportunity across Holyoke and the surrounding region.

“One thing we always emphasize is that, while our name is MassHire Holyoke, we have proudly served all of Hampden County for the past 30 years,” Executive Director Ramona Rivera-Reno said. “This celebration is both a reflection on that impact and a renewed commitment to the future.

“Even in good times, so many challenges can often stand in the way of people earnestly seeking employment, to better their and their families lives. In uncertain times as we are experiencing now, the people we serve need every possible advantage we can help them achieve to succeed,” Reno added. “We are here for the future workforce, but also for employers in the region seeking qualified workers to help them achieve their business goals.”

The anniversary event will highlight the organization’s measurable impact, including more than 200,000 job seekers served, more than 10,000 employers supported, more than 15,000 training grants awarded, nearly 29,500 youth served, and more than 27,000 re-entry and recovery customers assisted since 2003.

The evening will feature networking opportunities, recognition of community partners, and live entertainment by Brass Attack, adding to what is expected to be a vibrant celebration with many of the organization’s longstanding partners and supporters. Click here for more information about the event and for sponsorship opportunities.

Springfield Chamber Players to Present Mozart and More at 52 Sumner on May 17

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Chamber Players will present the SCP Oboe Quartet at 52 Sumner on Sunday, May 17 at 3 p.m. Marsha Harbison, assistant concertmaster of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO), will lead the group to perform works by Mozart and more. She will be joined by SSO oboist Karen Hosmer, SSO violist Dani Rimoni, and SSO cellist Boris Kogan.

This concert is the last of a five-concert series at 52 Sumner, where the Springfield Chamber Players will have finished their second season.

Also, this concert will be in honor of Marsha Harbison, who is retiring from the Springfield Symphony Orchestra after 49 years, and her late husband, Dr. William Harbison, who was a staunch supporter of the Springfield Chamber Players.