nbCC December Newsletter: Coalition News

Dear Northern Berkshire,

Please enjoy a sampling of articles from our December 2023 newsletter. To read the entire issue and see lots of photos of what the Coalition was up to last month, download the PDF here.

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Infrastructure Project Updates Draw Residents to November Forum

November’s forum was reserved for discussion of three major infrastructure projects in the early planning stages in North Adams. Infrastructure projects often have the most significant effect on any kind of public work. A new bridge or road can completely transform a community; and each of these projects could have that level of impact on North Adams and the Northern Berkshire region as a whole.

In February, the city and MASS MoCA received $750,000 in federal funding through the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program to study Veterans Memorial Bridge, also known informally as the Route 2 overpass. The goal of the program is to undo damage and other harms brought about by past infrastructure projects, particularly those relating to urban renewal in the 1950s and 60s. Jenny Wright, the former director of communications and current research consultant at MoCA, discussed the project at length during the forum.

Wright said the overpass was a good fit for the program and spoke heavily of urban renewal and the impact it had on North Adams. Specifically, Wright said it led to the demolition of numerous historic buildings and the resettlement of some 200 families in the Center Street area. The intent of renewal was to spur economic development, but the work also completely changed the makeup of the city. Before-and-after photos shown by Wright showcased the vast changes made in only a decade.

Wright urged attendees to look at the overpass with new eyes, which she said is probably quite hard for people who are used to seeing it or driving on it nearly every day. The overpass, she explained, cuts the Main Street area off from the rest of downtown and serves as an obstacle to downtown North Adams. Wright said several studies of the downtown area over the years, including the city’s own comprehensive plan, mention the overpass as a sort of barrier to connectivity.

Wright said the outcome of the study will be a report of findings, an outline of several possible options for the overpass and a recommendation for what the city should ultimately do.

Judy Grinnell, founder of the Hoosic River Revival (HRR), updated attendees on their ongoing work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which plans to reengineer the flood control system for the Hoosic River. The HRR, along with the city and the corps, began a three-year $3 million feasibility study in August and have already conducted several listening sessions to gather feedback.

Grinnell provided attendees with pamphlets of information, explaining the original flood control system is nearing the end of its functional life. She gave a brief history of the system, including major flood events in the 1930s and 40s which necessitated its creation. Construction by the corps on the original project began in 1950 and was completed in 1961. The first major test of the system, Grinnell said, was likely Hurricane Irene in 2011, a whole five decades later.

The walls of the flood chutes, comprised of 20-foot concrete slabs of varying heights, have slowly deteriorated. Five of the slabs have fallen completely and nine more are leaning. Other parts of the system are also in disrepair or were possibly faulty to begin with, according to Grinnell. The study hopes to modernize the flood control system and, where possible, make it more accessible and aesthetically appealing for the community. Grinnell cited examples of communities in Colorado and Korea which use their river systems as a key area for recreation, social and economic development. She said the community wants something to happen downtown.

Eric Kerns of Tourists discussed the third project, the North Adams Adventure Trail. The proposed 3.4-mile bike trail seeks to connect downtown North Adams to the bike path in Williamstown. The route would repurpose old, unused infrastructure to create a scenic bike route that takes riders through to MoCA and other major landmarks. The ultimate end goal, Kerns said, is to connect to the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail in Adams.

Bikers in North Adams now often have to share space with cars to get around, which he and attendees agreed can be unsafe and stressful. While the exact path of the trail is not finalized, Kerns said it would take riders along a calmer route and would avoid main roads as much as possible. Unlike other nearby bike paths, a rail trail is not possible in North Adams because rail lines in the city are still active. The end result, Kerns argued, would be a game changer for the region and something unique in the world to the Northern Berkshires.

Kerns showed attendees a headline from the North Adams Transcript which highlights residents’ desire to have a bike path as far back as 1896. He also highlighted a study completed by students at Williams College in 2002, which also explored the possibility of such a bike path and the benefits it would have on the local community. Kerns said, in doing his research on making the Adventure Trail, he found many involved in past bike trail projects were not avid bikers and did not consider the project a high priority.

Something Wright, Grinnell and Kerns all stressed throughout the meeting was how interconnected the three projects are and how crucial it is for city and community leaders to be well informed on all of them. Wright said that the work has to be done together, as a community.

Our next forum will once again be hosted by Kayla Allen, director of the Dispute Resolution Center at Berkshire County Regional Housing Authority. It will be the third in a series on having difficult conversations and different communication methods.

~Brian Rhodes, Program Administrative Specialist

COMMUNITY FORUM SCHEDULE

Dec. 8, 2023 | 10am-12pm | 1st. Congo. (Williamstown) Topic: “Reframing” Session

Jan. 15, 2024 | 9am-2pm | MCLA MLK Jr. Day of Service

Feb. 8, 2024 | 4-6pm | Terra Nova Topic: Youth Led Forum

March 14, 2024 | 4-6pm | Terra Nova Topic: “Promoting Emotional Intelligence & Self Awareness” Session

April 11, 2024 | 4-6pm | Terra Nova Topic: “Identity in Conflict” Session

MAY 9, 2024 | 4-6pm | Terra Nova Topic: “ Problem Solving & Negotiation” Session

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR TO THE COALITION?

Contributions can be made online or mailed to:

Northern Berkshire Community Coalition

61 Main Street, Suite 218

North Adams, MA 01247

2023 Neighborlies Event Introduces the

Steve Green - Neighbor of the Year Award

Steve Green was a committed and generous member of the northern Berkshire region. Steve could be found many places around town, volunteering his time and making sure people were being taken care of. And, every year, Steve could be found recognizing and celebrating the various “neighborly acts” and “good deeds” at the Neighborlies event. This event was meaningful to Steve and one he believed was important to growing gratitude and positivity in our world.

Our community meant a lot to Steve and this was seen through his years of service on the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition Board of Directors and his dedication to educating the next generations of helpers and social workers while at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

In honor of Steve’s memory, his gift of gratitude, and his dedication to helping others, nbCC has created the Steve Green Neighbor of the Year Award to honor a member of our community for their service to their community. This year’s award was presented by Steve’s wife, Sue Walker, to Kristen Tool of Lanesborough.

Kristen has been on several town boards and committees. She and her husband, Chris Olsen, run a local organic farm and people can purchase a share of the farm’s products through a CSA. She also runs Heart and Soil Collective, which, in cooperation with other farms in the area, give free produce to seniors in need, and in the winter provide soup for them, all made with organic produce grown on local farms. She engages the police department & ambulance service to assist with delivery thereby connecting emergency service to seniors. She is a cheerful presence who will lend anyone a hand if she can.

MLK Jr. Day of Service Committee Seeks Nominations for the 2024 Peacemaker Award

The Peacemaker Award is given annually to an individual or group in Northern Berkshire. The award, which originated as part of the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, is made to persons who have contributed substantially to peace in our region. In general, the Peacemaker Award recognizes persons who have a history of working with people and/or neighborhoods and communities to provide for greater tolerance, understanding, and caring. While the award may be made to a person or group well known in the region, those making nominations are particularly urged to consider those who have worked hard and have made contributions without much recognition.

Past Peacemakers include Kenna Waterman, Don Quinn Kelley, Mark Rondeau, Mark Lincourt, Pastor Dave Anderson, Al & Cindi McLain, PopCares, Inc., Dick Alcombright, Bilal Ansari, Kerri Nicoll, and Mary Lou Accetta.

The MLK Jr. Day of Service Committee is also seeking new members interested in helping to plan the January 2024 event. To join the committee, please call the Coalition at (413) 663-7588. To nominate a Peacemaker, pick up a form at the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition office at 61 Main Street, Suite 218, North Adams or nominate online at https://bit.ly/Peacemaker2024. Nominations must be received by December 17, 2023.

For any questions or additional information on the event please contact the Coalition at 413-663-7588 or info@nbccoalition.org

Donna's Tip for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

One of the struggles for grandparents raising grandchildren is the added financial responsibility. Most grandparents are on a fixed income. Grandparents raising grandchildren can apply for cash assistance through something called a Child Only Grant.

If you are the guardian of your grandchild through Probate and Family Court, you are entitled to apply for a TAFDC child-only grant through the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA). You will need to apply in person at your local DTA Office (check out www.mass.gov/org/department-of-transitional-assistance/locations).

To complete the application, please bring the following items:

• Guardianship paperwork from the Probate and Family Court or other documentation indicating your daily care and control of your grandchild

• Proof of relationship with the child (birth certificate, court papers)

• Proof of immunization record of the child

• Proof of living arrangement (can be self-declared).

Eligibility is based on your grandchild’s income, not yours.

Questions? Give us a call at 413-663-7588 or email dsenecal@nbccoalition.org

Holiday Tips for Families with Young Children

Simplify your priorities.
It’s okay to not please everyone, manage relatives’ expectations.
Make homemade gifts instead of buying gifts, or pick names from a hat to only buy for the person you choose.
Talk to your kids before going somewhere that can get overwhelming for them. Have a “code” word to let each other know when you’ve had enough without hurting anyone’s feelings.
Clarify your expectations of them before you go.
Be prepared with whatever will help keep your little one from having any meltdowns.
Encourage gratitude with your children.
Don’t force them to hug relatives they aren’t comfortable around; it’s okay. Try a high-five or a fist pump instead.
Try and keep their naps & schedules as close as possible.
Laugh! Have a sense of humor with whatever comes your way and enjoy your time with your Family & Friends.

Ideas for Your Family Holiday Budget & Giving Back

It’s that time of year already, you know the one where people are going crazy, trying to fit in their holiday shopping and stay on a budget. Every year I know I say, “oh next year I’m going to start shopping earlier so I’m not so stressed”. If you’re like me and everyone else I know, it usually doesn’t work out that way.

How can we teach our children and ourselves that more isn’t always better? I’m going to give you some ideas on how to stay on a budget for the holidays AND keep you & and your children happy.

Here are some helpful tips;

Each pay week, set aside a certain amount either in a savings account or in a jar in your house and be faithful to it.
Another way to try and save a little money is to collect loose change and put it in a jar, it can really add up.
Have a family meeting, and talk with your kids about your budget and why it is important for you to stick to it. (Age-appropriate of course)
During the year, volunteer at your local food pantries, or churches so they get the opportunity to see people that aren’t as fortunate as they are, it will change their outlook on other people and they can self-reflect on that.
Homemade gifts are the best! And it will strengthen your bond with your children. You can make ornaments, jams, holiday cards, mason jar cocoa or you can use a clear frosting sleeve and put the ingredients in instead.
In the Spring, help your children go through their toys and ask them to donate “gently” used toys for the holidays. (It’s a win, win, you’re helping out children and cleaning out the clutter).

~ Jennifer Parker, Family Support Worker

nbCC Events and Programming this Month

OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED ON MONDAY, DEC. 25 & MONDAY, JAN. 1 IN OBSERVANCE OF CHRISTMAS DAY & NEW YEARS DAY. THERE WILL BE NO PROGRAMMING HELD ON THOSE DAYS.

nbCC Monthly Forum: Reframing

Friday, Dec. 8, 10:00am-12:00pm, at First Congregational Church, 906 Main St., Williamstown

Join us for our December forum, a session exploring reframing, a process of reconceptualizing a problem by seeing it from a different perspective. The forum will begin with a round of introductions and opportunity for announcements before the presentation begins. Light refreshments served.

The forum will begin with a round of introductions and opportunity for announcements before the presentation begins. Light refreshments served.

FREE & open to the public.No registration required. All are welcome. Time for announcements and introductions during the first portion of the forum. Questions? 413-663-7588.

Learn Through Play: What Do You See?

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10:00am - 11:00am, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

In collaboration with Child Care of the Berkshires. Activities and circle time will focus on books by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle. Best for ages 0-5 years. Registration required. Space is limited. Contact us at 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

Walk Down Memory Lane with nbCC

Saturday Dec. 16, 9:00am-3:00 pm, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

Stop by the UNO Center and browse the thousands of photos of we’ve collected from community events and nbCC programming over the past 30+ years. We’ve digitally archived them all and welcome the community to come and take whatever they want. First come, first served. Free and Open to the public. For more info: 413-663-7588

Adams Winter Scavenger Hunt: Find the Penguins!

Saturday, Dec. 16, 9:00am-12:00pm, Adams Visitors Center, 3 Hoosac Street, Adams

Visit some of the local businesses in Adams and look for the penguins hidden inside! Pick up your passport at the Visitors Center then explore downtown. Prizes will be given out to those with fully stamped passports. For more information, call nbCC at 413.663.7588 or email gglasier@nbccoalition.org

Family Skate Day

Wednesday Dec. 27, 11:30-1:30pm, North Adams Ice Rink, 1267 South Church Street

Join the nbCC during the holiday break for FREE skating, skate rentals and snacks! No registration needed. For more info: 413-663-7588

Movie Time for Youth

Thursday Dec. 28, 3:00-5:00pm, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

Join the nbCC during the holiday break for a movie and snacks! For more info: 413-663-7588

WEEKLY EVENTS/PROGRAMS

nbCC Youth Empowerment Program

Mondays, 5:00-6:30 pm, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams.

Free and open to youth, 6-8th grade, who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. A weekly group to talk about school, emotions, navigating teen years, making friends and more. Snacks provided; transportation available. Register: call 413-663-7588

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Group

1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 4:00pm - 6:00pm. nbCC’s FRC living room, 61 Main St., Suite 212, North Adams

This is a group for grandparents who are actively parenting their grandchildren giving them a safe and confidential space to share similar experiences with other grandparents. Free pizza and childcare are provided, but you must register beforehand.663-7588 or email dsenecal@nbccoalition.org.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Coffee Time

Friday, Dec. 15, 10:00am - 12:00pm. UNO Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

This is a group for grandparents who are actively parenting their grandchildren giving them a safe and confidential space to share similar experiences with other grandparents. Coffee and snacks provided. Please let us know if you are coming. 663-7588 or email dsenecal@nbccoalition.org.

Youth Leadership Program

Tuesdays, 5:00pm - 7:00pm, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams.

Free and open to youth ages 14-19 who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. Young people are changing the world and you can too. Make a positive change in yourself and the world around you. Develop leadership skills, discuss what drives you, meet other young leaders and plan projects in your community. Snacks provided; transportation available. Register: call 413-663-7588

Family Resource Center: Parenting Together Group

2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 9:30 -10:30 am, UNO Center, 157 River Street, North Adams.

A peer-driven/peer-supported group in a judgement-free, confidential space. Snacks provided. Children welcome. 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

nbCC Bike Collective Open Hours*

WINTER HOURS

1st & 2nd Wednesdays, 4:00-6:00pm, The Armory, 206 Ashland St., North Adams

Bring your own bike or work on a bike at the bike collective. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from other community members on basic bike fixes, or team up with more experienced bike mechanics to rebuild a bike. Tools and stands are provided. All NB residents are welcome! For more info, call us at 413-663-7588.

Teen Writing Workshop

Wednesdays, 5:00 - 7:00 pm, held at nbCC, 61 Main St., Suite 218, North Adams.

Free and open to youth ages 13-19 who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. Aspiring writers and poets! Join this incredibly supportive group and get 1-on-1 help with your writing and performance style. Opportunities to perform and be published. Snacks and supplies provided; transportation available. Register: call 413-663-7588

24/7 Dads Parenting Group

Thursdays, 10:00am - 12:00pm, UNO Center, 157 River Street, North Adams.

A support group for dads. Children need their fathers. Fathers need their children. Discuss difficult issues and develop more effective coping techniques. No registration required. For more information: 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

Youth Health Collaborative

Thursdays, 5:00 - 7:00 pm, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams.

STARTING OCT. 12 -(14-19 Yrs. Old) This program is intended to engage young people in supporting the health of their peers in the region. The aim of this program is to benefit the community by directly engaging young people in the act of bettering their environments. This is the only program with a limit on attendance, as there are only ten spots available!

Participants will receive a stipend for completing this program. Please call or email to apply: 413-663-7588 or csacherski@nbccoalition.org

UNO Community Center Coffee Time

Fridays, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm, 157 River St., North Adams

Come on over and join the UNO neighbors for coffee and conversation. All are welcome.

Here are a few other upcoming and recurring events happening at the UNO Center at no, or low cost to participants:

Every Wed: 6:30-10:30 PM | Berkshire Gamers - Board Game Night (No Admission fee. Open to the Public)
Wed. Dec 13th: 3-5:30PM | Afterschool Board Games (No Admission fee. Open to Elementary & Middle school Students. FREE games!)
Every Thurs: 4PM | Mary J’s Afterschool Help

(No Admission fee. Open to school age youth)

Every Sun: 2:00-6:00 pm | RPG Game Night - $2 Admission Fee. A collaborative storytelling game where one person plays the narrator and supporting cast to the ensemble played by the other players. Open to the public to drop in, learn how to play and connect with the community of gamers.

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Click here to see what's going on at nbCC in DECEMBER!