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Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce
November ARRIVE@5
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Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce (GNCC)
Call for Volunteers
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The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) is delighted to be named, for the fourth consecutive year, as the nonprofit beneficiary for the fall show of the Paradise City Arts Festival (PCAF) Silent Auction. PCAF is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024.
Volunteers are needed October 12th, 13th, and 14th, to help at the auction table, answer questions, and provide relief to artists who need to take a break from their booths. Volunteers will receive free admission to the show and access to VIP volunteer parking.
Join us in celebrating the arts in Northampton and help the GNCC with an important and impactful fundraiser. The funds raised by the Silent Auction support the GNCC's efforts to deliver meaningful programs and events that contribute to a strong economy and vibrant community. Click here to sign up for a volunteer slot! For questions about sponsorship or to donate an item to the Silent Auction, contact the GNCC's Senior Manager of Investor and Community Relations, Katie McLaughlin.
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If you’re visiting the Pioneer Valley or are an out-of-towner looking for something different to do, the Chuckling Charlie Comedy Bus Tour is the perfect activity. Experience local culture, enjoy delicious food, and laugh your way through an evening you won’t forget. It’s a fantastic way to see the sights and enjoy the local flavor in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Our comedians will keep you laughing with their edgy, irreverent humor and hilarious anecdotes as you travel through the picturesque Pioneer Valley. The tour includes a stop at one of the area’s best restaurants so you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the Valley’s culinary scene. Bring your own beverages and enjoy your favorite drinks while taking in the comedy and sights. The Chuckling Charlie is the perfect place for a fun, relaxed evening out with friends or family. And now, you can pay your fare with the Greater Northampton Gift Card! Learn more at funbus.org! | |
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Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce
Position on Ballot Question 5
The board of directors of the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) has taken a rare public position by supporting a “No” vote on Question 5 about minimum wage for tipped workers. By doing so, the GNCC stands with the Massachusetts Restaurant Association (MRA) and many local restaurants that are members of both the MRA and the GNCC.
Taking a position on a major policy or political issue is rare for the GNCC. However, after careful and thoughtful review of Question 5, the GNCC board determined that many businesses and tipped employees may suffer downstream negative implications including higher labor costs for businesses and potentially lower take-home pay for workers.
Another contributing factor to the board’s decision to support a “No” vote on Question 5 was research that shows that many tipped employees in the restaurant industry currently earn wages higher than the proposed minimum wage. Further, surveys conducted among waiters and bartenders convey that they do not favor sharing tips, which is also part of Question 5.
“The board also based its decision heavily on the GNCC’s mission and role in driving a thriving economy and community,” said Vince Jackson, executive director of the GNCC. “Restaurants are an important sector when it comes to economic growth and job creation in our community. Many GNCC restaurant members are concerned that increased labor costs could force restaurants to reduce hours for workers, provide fewer jobs, raise menu prices for customers, or even close their doors.”
“We are proud to stand with our local business community and look forward to continuing our work to support economic development and a sustainable model that benefits our local employers, workforce, and residents alike,” stated board vice president Jennifer Ewers, who led the GNCC board through its process to a decision on Question 5. “Supporting a ‘No’ vote on Question 5 is part of that work.”
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PeoplesBank
Charitable Contributor Award
PeoplesBank has been named a Top Corporate Charitable Contributor by the Boston Business Journal, which also recognized the bank’s employees by listing them as number three in the state for volunteer hours contributed. PeoplesBank was also included in the top three most generous corporate contributors in Western Massachusetts.
“Our emphasis on supporting the community demonstrates the power of a mutual bank,” notes Brian Canina, president of PeoplesBank. “Our focus is serving our customers and the communities where they live. The fact that we are not diverting funds to pay stockholders, means we can instead invest in nonprofit organizations that improve the quality of life for all.”
Canina noted that he is especially proud of the bank’s associates for their commitment to volunteerism. “Being ranked number 3 on the list for Highest Average Volunteer Hours underscores our value of service. It’s part of our culture. We know that support often translates to more than a donation of money. Often, it means helping in the community or serving on a non-profit board — and our associates do both in record numbers of hours.”
Matthew Bannister, senior vice president and head of Marketing and Corporate Responsibility, notes that the bank’s charitable impact has soared over the last decade. “We now serve both Connecticut and Massachusetts, and our contributions, both in terms of financial support and volunteerism, have increased correspondingly.” Bannister estimates that the 10-year contribution total is now close to $13 million total when both states are considered.
A sample of Massachusetts organizations supported by PeoplesBank include The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Girls Inc. of the Valley, the Spirit of Springfield, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services. “PeoplesBank exemplifies an exceptional commitment to community by consistently responding to calls for action,” explained Shannon Rudder, CEO of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services in Springfield, Mass. Their proactive approach and focus on meaningful reinvestments truly strengthen and uplift our evolving neighborhoods. At MLKFS, we deeply appreciate their unwavering support and partnership, and we look forward to a collaborative future that continues to enhance our community.”
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Northampton Arts Council
Community Open House
The Northampton Arts Council is holding an open house event on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the A.P.E. Workroom, 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, to seek valuable input from the community.
Council members and staff will be on hand to answer questions about the Local Cultural Council grant round and other programs. Attendees can enjoy refreshments and appetizers while engaging in discussions in an open-house format.
The Arts Council will also distribute a community input survey to gather feedback on community priorities. For those who are unable to attend, you can complete the online survey here.
“Community input is essential in creating a framework for arts, culture, and community development that is relevant to and inclusive of our broader population,” said Kaye Carrol, Chair of the Northampton Arts Council. Brian Foote, Director of Arts and Culture for the City of Northampton, added, “Community input elicits thoughts and opinions and builds connections among residents, artists, local businesses, cultural nonprofits, municipalities, and other civic entities. These connections create multiple channels of access that support local programming and decision-making.”
For more information, please contact the Northampton Arts Council at arts@northamptonma.gov, call 413-587-1069, or visit northamptonartscouncil.org.
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CopyCat
New Location
CopyCat has moved to 241 King Street! Find CopyCat at the Potpourri Plaza, Suite 114, right next to Walgreens. Easy access and plenty of free parking. Stop by and say hello! Reach out at noho@copycatink.com or visit instagram.com/copycatink for more info.
Get started on your next business card, banner, or brochure at copycatink.com today!
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City of Northampton
2025 Senior and Veteran Tax Work-Off Program Applications Available
The City of Northampton is now accepting Senior and Veteran Tax Work-Off applications for the 2025 program year. In FY2023, 41 eligible seniors and veterans participated in the program providing quality volunteer services to city departments while earning $43,272 in property tax relief. In the current FY2024 program, which ends October 31, 2024, there are 49 participants. This valued program provides an opportunity for eligible residents in the community to share their skills and expertise to benefit the city while earning tax credits toward their property taxes.
More information on the Senior Tax Work-Off Program can be found by visiting https://northamptonma.gov/2066/Senior-Tax-Work-Off-Program or by contacting the Senior Center at (413) 587-1228 and more information on the Veteran Tax Work-Off Program can be found by visiting https://northamptonma.gov/1455/Veteran-Tax-Work-Off-Program or by contacting Veterans Services at (413) 587-1299.
Applications for interested seniors and veterans will be available on October 7, 2024. Applications may be downloaded from the website or may be picked up in person at the Assessor’s Office, Senior Center, or Veterans Services Office. Completed applications must be submitted by Friday, November 15, 2024.
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Freedom Credit Union
Rays of Hope Fundraiser
Throughout the month of October, Freedom Credit Union is accepting cash donations at all its branches to benefit Rays of Hope, a Baystate Health Foundation charity supporting breast cancer patients and survivors.
“We’re always seeking new ways to uplift our community,” said Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch. “We know countless families who have been personally impacted by and involved with the battle against breast cancer. We’re humbled to have this opportunity to help.”
Since its inception three decades ago, Rays of Hope has raised $17.2 million toward studies at the Rays of Hope Center for Breast Cancer Research, and has provided funding for state-of-the-art equipment, breast health programs and outreach and education. It also provides grants for complimentary therapies and cancer programs to community partners throughout western Massachusetts.
The community is encouraged to donate at any Freedom branch through Thursday, October 31. Freedom Credit Union also has a team participating in the Rays of Hope Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer on Sunday, October 27. The event kicks off at 8 a.m. at Temple Beth El, 979 Dickinson Street in Springfield.
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Pioneer Valley Storage
Ribbon Cutting
You are invited to the grand opening and ribbon cutting of our newly expanded facility located in Hatfield! Stop by for tours, refreshments, and a scavenger hunt. Enter to win a year of free storage — the top prize is worth $2,100! Our celebration begins at 10:00am. Please RSVP to hatfield@pioneervalleystorage.com — we hope to see you there!
Saturday, October 19, 2024
Pioneer Valley Storage
10am-12pm
12 Elm St., Hatfield MA 01038
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The Sphere Northampton
October Updates
Whether you’re looking to enhance your professional skills, gain new perspectives, or enjoy the camaraderie of fellow book lovers, the Readers Roundtable is a new supportive environment for meaningful discussions and shared insights with business leaders and professionals. Dr. Jana Rosewarne, a volunteer with The Sphere, spoke to WWLP Mass Appeal to explain this new opportunity. Watch yesterday’s segment at https://www.wwlp.com/massappeal/readers-roundtable-launches-inspirational-gatherings/.
Office Hours are free drop-in hours at The Sphere Northampton where professionals can access free business advice. The best part is that you don’t need to be a Sphere Innovation Lab member to attend. Dr. Megan Allen, Co-founder of The Sphere Northampton and Founder of The Community Classroom, talked with WWLP News Channel 22’s Mass Appeal about the benefits of stopping by on Wednesday’s this month. Watch last week’s segment at https://www.wwlp.com/massappeal/drop-in-hours-at-the-sphere-offer-free-business-advice/.
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Northampton Education Foundation (NEF)
Call for Volunteers
Interested in doing work that directly impacts creativity and engagement in the Northampton Public Schools? The Northampton Education Foundation (NEF) is seeking volunteers for our fundraising events, committees and Board of Directors.
Established in 1991, the Northampton Education Foundation (NEF) is a non-profit organization created to fund projects and programs that expand educational opportunities, foster creativity, and enhance academic experiences in Northampton’s public schools while broadening community support for our public schools.
NEF has multiple grant programs that support educator projects and professional development, and has awarded nearly two million dollars since 1991. Money has gone to all four elementary schools, JFK Middle School, Northampton HS and Smith Vocational and Agricultural HS. Please consider getting involved at whatever level works for you. We welcome your participation.
Click here for more information about NEF, our grantees, our fundraising, our committees and our volunteer opportunities.
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Northampton Arts Council
Funding Proposals Sought
The Massachusetts Cultural Council has set a deadline of October 16, 2024, for organizations, schools, and individuals to apply for grants supporting community arts activities. These grants can support various artistic projects and activities in Northampton, Florence, and Leeds, including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies, school performances, workshops, and lectures.
This year, the Northampton Arts Council will distribute $23,600 in grants to support arts activities. First-time applicants are welcome. The link below contains resources for those new to the grant application process, including writing tips.
To apply, read our grant priorities, and complete information on Northampton Arts Council grants, including information about previously funded projects, visit https://www.northamptonartscouncil.org/lcc-grant.
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Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED)
Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program
The Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) are proud to announce the launch of the Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program, a new program through the state’s Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund.
The program will provide up to $25 million in grants to eligible marijuana establishments, medical marijuana treatment centers, and pre-licensed cannabis businesses. Grant award sizes will range from $25,000 to $500,000 and funding opportunities will be offered in four tiers based on license status and supporting the following goals:
· Tier 1: Entry into the regulated cannabis industry,
· Tier 2: Imminent or outstanding expenses essential to the operation of the business,
· Tier 3: Support for the acquisition of final licensure and commencement of business operations, or
· Tier 4: Funds to improve and expand the business.
Additional information and how to apply can be found on the Cannabis Social Equity Grant Program webpage. The deadline to apply is October 17, 11:59 p.m. ET.
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Amtrak News
The Valley Flyer
All aboard! Check out the Valley Flyer's daily passenger rail stops in Greenfield, Northampton, and Holyoke, Massachusetts! Use this convenient, accessible mode of transportation to visit Vermont, New Haven, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Relax and enjoy the landscape rolling by as you travel by rail or make use of the onboard WiFi to plan out what you'll do when you reach your destination!
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Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA)
Grants and Financing
There are a wide variety of grants and financing options that can help you expand your business, facilitate new infrastructure for your farm, or provide needed capital. CISA has compiled a list of financing opportunities, along with a number of state and federal grant programs, that can help you secure the funding you need for your goals. View the full list of financing opportunities here. If you have additional questions about your grant or financing options, or need help with one of these resources, please email Kristen Wilmer at kristen@buylocalfood.org.
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COVID-19 RESOURCES AND WORKFORCE PROGRAMS | |
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City of Northampton
Vaccine Clinics and Booster Shots
The Northampton Health Department offers both flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics. Appointments and the current clinic schedules are now available on the City of Northampton website. For more information or for help in registering for an appointment, call 413-587-1314.
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Resources from Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development
YOUTHWORKS
YouthWorks is a state-funded youth employment program serving individuals ages 14-25. It helps teens and young adults develop the skills and experience needed to find and keep jobs. Participants take part in short-term work placements during the summer and/or school year at public, private, and nonprofit work sites. Wages and worker’s compensation for the participants are paid through MassHire Franklin Hampshire Workforce Board. We traditionally run a 6-8-week YouthWorks summer program (July-August) and a year-round program (September-May). If you are an employer interested in hosting a young adult please email MassHire here.
WORKFORCE COMPETITIVENESS TRUST FUND GRANTS
This funding opportunity is being made available to support the ongoing economic recovery and growth objectives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. These strategic investments are part of the ongoing effort by the Massachusetts Workforce Skills Cabinet (WSC) to align public and private resources across the system and scale effective career pathway programs that better position residents who want to be hired into jobs that businesses need filled. Learn more here.
WORKFORCE TRAINING FUND EXPRESS
The Express Program provides employers fast, simple access to grant-funded training, helping businesses in Massachusetts respond to emerging needs. It is designed to help businesses respond quickly to change and keep employees engaged. With bite-size grants for just-in-time training and no waiting periods between grants, Express is our fastest path to funding, enhanced with an even more flexible directory of training options and 6 quick steps to success. Learn more here.
WORKFORCE TRAINING FUND GENERAL
Via General Program Training Grants, Businesses can apply for a grant up to $250,000. Employers, employer organizations, labor organizations, training providers, and consortia of such entities are encouraged to apply for funds to train current and newly hired workers. You may use a training provider of your choice. While we fund the majority of training content, courses that a company is legally mandated to provide (such as OSHA training) are not eligible for funding under this program. Training programs must be completed within two years. Learn more here.
WORKSHARE
Businesses can still take advantage of the WorkShare program. WorkShare is a program that offers a smart alternative to layoffs. Employees work reduced hours while collecting unemployment benefits to supplement their lower wages. Learn more here.
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Learning Together
Funding, Education, and Business Resources
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Think Again Training & Consulting
Professional Development Opportunities
Think Again Training & Consulting supports individuals, organizations, and communities to enact social justice principles in their life and work. Our goal is to inspire positive change and foster a more inclusive and equitable society for all. Upcoming professional development opportunities include:
Antiracist Development Group for White Leaders
Tuesdays Oct 8 - Dec 3, 3:30-5:00pm
Cross-Class Dialogue Circle
Wednesdays Oct 9 - Dec 11, 5:30-7:00pm
News and resources from Think Again team members:
Is Evaluation a Dirty Word? with Chelsey Branham
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Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC)
Business Basics Webinar
This free Business Basics Webinar will help entrepreneurs start a business plan and provide structure to starting and managing their venture. Topics will include:
- Introduction and need for planning
- Basic business plan format
- Choosing your legal form of organization
- Marketing, market planning and research
- Cash flow projections
- Financial statements
- Financing
There is no charge for these workshops, but pre-registration is required. This workshop is offered on several convenient dates. A Zoom link for the webinar will be emailed to you after registration.
Dates & Times: Typically held on the first Monday (1:00 - 4:00 p.m. EDT) and third Thursday (9:00 a.m. - 12 noon EDT) of the month. Click here to learn more.
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Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED)
Business Front Door Resource Guide
The Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) has announced a new Business Resource Guide, which will be part of the upcoming Business Front Door program. Modeled after the Community One Stop for Growth, the new Business Front Door portal will create one online “front door” to access state resources, and to enable more coordinated, organized responses from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. In essence, this new system aspires to operate as a concierge for new and existing businesses seeking to expand in Massachusetts.
Click here to access the Business Resource Guide.
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Live Local
Community Events, Specials, and Campaigns
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Straw Dog Writers Guild (SDWG)
October Events
Straw Dog Writes Weekly Writers Meet Up
Straw Dog Writers Guild members who would like to spend some time writing together can join a Zoom session. We will spend 15 minutes on introductions, a 45-minute writing session, have a 15-minute discussion, then write for a second 45-minute period of time. Afterwards, the Zoom room will remain open for a half hour for discussion and chat.To register and receive the zoom link, contact Steven D. Brewer at sdbrewer@stevendbrewer.com
Second Sundays Open Mic
Come create community on second Sundays of every month 6-8pm EST with Straw Dog Writers Guide via a virtual open mic on zoom. Read a 3-minute piece. Please contact Lindsay Rockwell for zoom link if interested: emonrock@mac.com
Surprising Readers and Ourselves: Playing with Hermit Crab Essays, Poems, and Stories
Upon first glance, “Hermit Crabs” (stories or poems or essays that borrow another “shell” or form, also known as the False Document or Trojan Horse poem or Constraint Essay) look like literary play (and they are fun!). But they’re also great tools to break through writers’ block or overcome resistance to topics that feel heavy, complex, or overwhelming. Author, editor and teacher Faith Adiele will review the history and rules of the form, share best practices for fusing form and content, and provide prompts for playing with this deceptively accessible form that has the potential to surprise both your readers and yourself. Join Straw Dog Writers Guild on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 7:00-8:30pm via Zoom. Register for this free event HERE.
A Writer's Night with Poet Doug Anderson
On Thursday, October 17 from 6:45-7:30pm Straw Dog Writers Guild and The Longmeadow Adult Center present A Writer’s Night with poet Doug Anderson.
Register by calling 413-565-4150, option 1.
The Longmeadow Adult Center is located at 211 Maple Road, Longmeadow, MA
A Transformational Poetry Share
Come read and listen on Wednesday, October 23, 6:30-8:00pm in the Belding Memorial Library Meeting Room with poet Arianna Alexsandra Collins of Offerings for Community Building. Wine and chocolate will be served. This program is free and open to the public. Please register by contacting Belding Memorial Library at bmlashfield@gmail.com or 413-628-4414.
The Library is located at 344 Main St. in Ashfield, MA.
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United Way of Franklin & Hampshire Region
Annual Campaign Kick-Off
The United Way of Franklin & Hampshire Region is pleased to announce Claudia Pazmany and Jane Wolfe as co-chairs for our Annual Campaign. Please join us in thanking them for their commitment and consider making a personal or corporate gift, or jumpstart a Workplace Campaign today! Join us for our Annual Campaign Kick-Off Breakfast on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 7:30am at the UMass Student Union Ballroom. Click here to learn more.
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The Sphere Northampton
Book Club
Join The Sphere Northampton for our first Readers Roundtable, a dynamic and engaging book club designed to foster both personal and professional growth. This unique gathering is where literature meets leadership, offering participants a chance to delve into thought-provoking books that inspire, challenge, and empower.
Book: Collaboration is the New Competition by Priscilla McKinney
Facilitator: Jana Rosewarne
Dates: October 10, October 24, and special meet-the-author Q&A on November 7
$20 Tickets include: signed copy of the book, reading guide, and book-related goodies; 3 small group meetings at The Sphere co-working and event space in Florence, and virtual access for those unable to attend in-person. Each session will include guided discussion of the book’s themes and potluck-style snacks. Click here for more information and tickets.
Learn more about the book here, and get a sneak peek of the book here.
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Spill the Tea Sis Apothecary
Sunday Block Party
Join Us Sunday, October 13th, from 11am-5pm for our Northampton Sunday Block Party: Halloween Market, our BEST market of the year, with The Sanderson Sisters from Noon to 4pm!
A family friendly outdoor market showcasing a collaboration between Spill the Tea Sis and a diverse group of local businesses, this initiative brings together both established and emerging artists, small businesses, and visitors of all ages. The Sunday Block Parties transforms Main Street between Center Street and Cracker Barrel Alley into a hub of artistic creativity and celebration, offering an array of carefully curated merchandise, programs, and arts displays.
The Sunday Block Party series is supported by Spill the Tea Sis, the Daily Hampshire Gazette, and Copy Cat Northampton. Click here to learn more.
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Paradise City Arts Festival (PCAF)
October Show in Northampton
Celebrating their 30th year hosting Paradise City Arts in Northampton, the Paradise City Arts Festival team has assembled 220 expertly curated artists + makers from across the country, and are featuring the special show “Fables & Folklore: Reframing the Classics”, a themed exhibit where age-old stories meet modern creativity. Come spend your holiday weekend at New England’s premier show of contemporary craft & fine art; featuring handmade home decor, sculpture, fashion, jewelry, and more.
Where:
At the 3 County Fairgrounds, 54 Old Ferry Road, off Rt. 9 in Northampton, MA 01060.
When:
Oct 12, 13 & 14, 2024
Indigenous People’s Day Weekend
Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm; Monday, 10am-4pm. Click here to learn more.
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Queer Curiosities
Outdoor Art Market
Queer Curiosities presents their inaugural outdoor art market, located in the plaza between E. John Gare Parking Garage and Thornes Marketplace. Queer Curiosities will feature over 20 local LGBTQIA+ artists, makers and crafters. The market will also feature live music by DJ Cachetona. The event will be from 11am until 5pm. Producers will be hosting a raffle featuring items donated by the artists, with proceeds going to Northampton local non-profit Translate Gender.
Details:
Saturday, October 12, 2024
11am-5pm
Between Thornes Marketplace and E. John Gare Parking Garage
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Cancer Connection
October Events
Tickets are now available for the Valley Players’ October production, Constellations, Nick Payne’s play about fate, free will, love, multiverse theory, and honey. The play marks the first full production for the new Connecticut River Valley theater company, which was founded in January of this year. Constellations begins when Marianne, a theoretical physicist, and Roland, a beekeeper, first meet at a barbecue. The action then splinters into multiple lines of action that explore the different possibilities of their relationship, touching on fidelity, infidelity, marriage, cancer, ballroom dancing, quantum mechanics, beekeeping, and more.
Featuring a cast of eight local actors, the production is funded in part by a Projects & Festivals grant from the Mass Cultural Council. Tickets for Constellations are available on a pay-what-you-can system, but seating is very limited, so reservations are recommended. Constellations runs October 11–20, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm, at the Munson Memorial Library, 1046 South East Street, in Amherst. The play is approximately one hour, fifteen minutes, with no intermission, and contains adult language and themes that may not be appropriate for all ages. Fifty percent of the show’s net ticket revenue will benefit Cancer Connection. Click here to learn more.
On October 17, 2024, Cancer Connection will host our annual Harvest Dinner – this year at the beautiful Inn on Boltwood in Amherst. It is going to be a wonderful evening, held at a New England inn at the height of fall, with a delicious farm-to-table dinner, live jazz, a silent auction, and more. This festive evening will bring our community together – and raise critical funds to bring our support groups, integrative therapies, and educational programs to a larger, more diverse population of cancer patients and their caregivers. Click here to purchase tickets, and learn more about Cancer Connection at www.cancer-connection.org.
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BusinessWest
2024 Healthcare Heroes Award Gala
Tickets are now on sale for the eighth annual Healthcare Heroes award gala, hosted by BusinessWest, the business journal of Western Massachusetts, and its sister publication, the Healthcare News.
The event will take place on Thursday, October 17, 2024, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. They can be purchased at
https://businesswest.com/healthcare-heroes-tickets/
The eighth annual Healthcare Heroes program is presented by Baystate Health & Health New England and sponsored by Trinity Health of New England/Mercy Medical Center. The Healthcare Heroes program was created in 2017 to honor the heroes working across the region’s wide, deep, and all-important healthcare and wellness sector. These leaders, innovators, and collaborators have devoted their careers to improving the quality of individual lives and the health of entire communities.
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The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
Cauldron Bubble Bash
Celebrate the spooky season at The Carle with a monster puppet show, singalong storytime, and plenty of bubbles! Guests are invited to wear their Halloween costumes, or make their own unique costumes in the Art Studio. Costumes inspired by your favorite picture books are encouraged! Click here to learn more.
Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 10 am - 4 pm
Free with Museum admission and Free for Museum members
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Kestrel Land Trust
Mt. Tom Trail Race
Be a part of the 2024 Mt. Tom Trail Race and support Kestrel Land Trust, whose mission is to conserve, care for, and connect you to the forests, farms, and trails of the Connecticut River Valley of Massachusetts. Kestrel has helped conserve more than 29,000 acres for recreation, wildlife, food security, and a healthy planet. This race supports Kestrel’s efforts to enhance public access to Mt. Tom, including creating the Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park (Underwood Aid Station!) with the City of Easthampton, restoring Anniversary Hill Park with the City of Holyoke and an innovative effort to conserve 40 acres of open space in Eastampton while also establishing a new affordable housing community. Race date is set for October 19, 2024.
Click here for details or to register today!
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Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Happy Valley Half Marathon and 5K
Cooley Dickinson Hospital is thrilled to once again be the fundraising partner for this year’s Happy Valley Half Marathon & 5K on October 20th, 2024, at Look Park. Whether you run or become a sponsor, you will be supporting your own health and your community hospital. The breathtaking course is designed to showcase some of the most beautiful roads that New England has to offer during peak fall foliage. The Happy Valley experience only gets started at the finish line. Your achievement will be celebrated with breweries, food trucks, and the enthusiastic support of the local running community.
This event makes a positive impact year-round, as the Happy Valley Half Marathon & 5K has partnered with Transforming Emergency Care: The Campaign for the Cooley Dickinson Emergency Department to help make our community safer, happier, and healthier. Click here to learn more.
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Northampton Education Foundation
Spelling Bee
Can you spell affenpinscher, tergiversation, or borborygmus?
The Northampton Education Foundation (NEF) Adult Spelling Bee returns on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at BOMBYX Center for Arts & Equity in Florence. Businesses, organizations, and community members are invited to register a Spelling Bee team for $300. If you want to sponsor but don’t want to put together a team, NEF can match you with one. If you want to form a team but don’t have funds to register one, NEF will match you with a sponsor. All funds raised by the NEF Spelling Bee support our Small Grants for Teachers program. Go to the NEF website for more information and to register.
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Smith College Executive Education
Community Keynote
In our age of unprecedented change, professionals must tap into their most powerful resource: the human brain. Smith College Executive Education’s October Community Keynote, led by Smith alum Jamie Lee, offers evidence-based tools to overcome the effects of harmful gender socialization that lead to gender pay and leadership gaps. By leveraging practical neuroscience techniques, you’ll walk away with actionable insights to enhance your negotiation and leadership confidence.
The Confidence Lab: The neuroscience of building leadership confidence
October 24 | 1:00 p.m. ET | Smith College Executive Education
This is a virtual event; registration is open to all.
Program contact: Joy Hermansen, leadership@smith.edu
https://bit.ly/OctoberCommunityKeynote
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VisitHampshireCounty.com >>
The online home of the Hampshire County Regional Tourism Council (HCRTC), VisitHampshireCounty.com offers a county-wide look at what makes our part of Massachusetts so special. With event listings, the VisitWidget trip-planning tool, and more, VisitHampshireCounty.com is a great resource for visitors and locals alike!
Northampton.live >>
Northampton.live is a hub that makes finding Northampton's small businesses simple, and includes information on how your favorite shops, salons, and restaurants are currently operating. Keep it local, and stay informed with Northampton.live.
GNCC on YouTube >>
Interested in joining GNCC's virtual events, but can't make it during your busy day? Check out our archive of program recordings on YouTube.
ShopNoho.com >>
A website created by local retailers for the community to be able to support them while shopping online. Visit SHOPNOHO.com where you can shop online and local!
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Historic Northampton
Business Manager
The Business Manager will be primarily responsible for managing and implementing Historic Northampton’s financial and related administrative activities. This position requires regular and open communication with the Co-Executive Directors, other staff members, Finance Committee members, and the Board Treasurer. The Business Manager reports to the Co-Executive Directors. This is a 0.6 FTE position (24 hours/week), Monday-Friday. Flexible schedule possible. Salary commensurate with experience, $38,000-42,000. Click here to learn more.
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Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA)
Executive Director
CISA is looking for a leader with vision, experience, and familiarity with agriculture. The search follows the announcement that longtime leader Philip Korman will step down on August 30th.
“As we seek a new leader, we are committed to a process that honors the needs of CISA’s many constituencies and partners,” said Jenny Ladd. “We are looking for a strategic leader with vision, experience and financial acumen. They must be invested in collaborating with others, building community support, and deepening CISA's commitment to equity," said Jenny Ladd, Chair of CISA’s Board of Directors.
Click here to learn more.
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Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA)
Office Administrator
The full-time Office Administrator position is responsible for overall office systems and facilities for our 21-person hybrid organization with a physical office space in South Deerfield. Our ideal candidate is a self-motivated problem-solver, someone who enjoys helping set up and manage an array of systems, with a willingness to focus on the details. They provide critical support to the entire CISA team and are often the first interaction the public has with CISA. Click here to learn more.
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City of Northampton
Northampton Job Board
The City of Northampton maintains a list of job openings, and also offers job seekers the opportunity to be notified of new openings as they are posted. Review the positions available (in schools, public works, recreation, and more) by clicking here!
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Be Featured in This Newsletter!
To have your news or event featured in the Community Connector, please submit the following via email to jack@northamptonchamber.com. Deadline for inclusion is 12pm on Monday before the Tuesday that the Connector is published. Submissions may be edited for clarity and length.
- 100 words communicating your message
- Your organization's logo
- A link to more information or an email contact
- Include "Connector Submission" in the subject line
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