Exhibit explores Northampton’s Revolutionary roots
NORTHAMPTON — The Betty Allen Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is collaborating with Forbes Library to present a special America 250! display highlighting Northampton’s Revolutionary-era history and the local patriots who helped shape the nation.
From June 1-13, visitors are invited to stop by Forbes Library to explore historical documents and informational displays showcasing the city’s contributions to what George Washington famously called “the cause of liberty.” The exhibit also features information about Revolutionary War Patriots buried in Northampton’s historic Bridge Street Cemetery.
In addition to the historical displays, visitors can browse and borrow books specially selected by Forbes Library librarians, participate in a librarywide history scavenger hunt, share reflections and appreciation in a community gratitude box, view two award-winning essays written by students from John F. Kennedy Middle School and learn more about Northampton’s role in America’s founding and its enduring legacy.
The celebration will culminate on Saturday, June 13, from 10 a.m. to noon, when community members gather at Bridge Street Cemetery to honor approximately 175 Revolutionary War Patriots buried there. The ceremony will commemorate their service and sacrifice and recognize Northampton’s important place in the story of American independence.
For more information, contact the Betty Allen Chapter DAR at regentbettyallenchapterdar@gmail.com or Forbes Library.
Northampton summer clothing drive
NORTHAMPTON — A summer clothing drive sponsored by the Northampton Department of Health & Human Services, Division of Community Care, continues through Friday, June 5. The drive is intended to support community members experiencing financial hardship, housing instability, and other challenging life circumstances.
As the cost of living continues to rise and many individuals struggle to meet basic needs, DHHS has seen increasing demand for essential clothing and supplies through its outreach and community response efforts. Donations will be distributed locally through DHHS programs and community partner organizations serving vulnerable residents throughout Northampton.
The following new or gently used items are needed: shirts, shorts and pants, socks and shoes, raincoats, hats, blankets and sleeping bags. While all donations are appreciated, DHHS notes that men’s clothing is currently the greatest area of need.
Donations may be dropped off at the following locations: Forbes Library, 20 West St.; Lilly Library, 19 Meadow St.; Northampton Fire/Rescue Department Headquarters, 26 Carlon Dr.; Northampton Police Department, 29 Center St.; Northampton Senior Center, 67 Conz St.; Division of Community Care, 1 Roundhouse Plaza; and Thornes Marketplace 150 Main St.
Limited donation pick-up may be available for community members unable to travel to a drop-off location. For more information or to arrange a pick-up, contact health-dept@northamptonma.gov or call the Division of Community Care at 877-322-0413.
Care over Cuts rally, vigil in Northampton on Friday
NORTHAMPTON — Indivisible Northampton will hold a rally and candlelight vigil on Friday, June 5, called “Save Medicaid, Medicare & Healthcare Jobs,” from 7:15 to 9 p.m.
Attendees are asked to meet at Bridge Street School at the intersection of Bridge and Parsons streets for a march to City Hall that begins at 7:30 p.m. The rally and vigil will begin at 8 p.m.
The event is organized by Indivisible Northampton and co-sponsored by Rise Up Western Mass, Indivisible Easthampton, FCCPR, River Valley Freedom Road Socialist Organization, and others.
For more information, visit www.indivisiblenorthampton.org.
Networking for Good event to support hospital
NORTHAMPTON — Greenfield Cooperative Bank will hold its upcoming Networking for Good event benefiting Cooley Dickinson Hospital Behavioral Health Unit on Thursday, June 11, from 8-9 a.m., at Familiars Coffee and Tea, at 6 Strong Ave.
To support the Behavioral Health Unit, GCB will collect new and gently used books — from graphic novels to romance and history — that are in good condition and appropriate for all readers. The CDH Behavioral Health Unit offers community members in crisis a safe and comfortable space to recover and move toward a life of greater stability and growth.
Holyoke Rows to hold Shad Festival
HOLYOKE — Holyoke Rows invites the community to its second annual Shad Fest, a celebration of the Connecticut River and the annual shad migration in western Massachusetts. The festival will take place on Sunday, June 7, from 12-4 p.m. at 25 Jones Ferry Road.
This free, family-friendly event offers an afternoon along the river featuring food, free kayaking, free rowing instruction for beginners, fishing, river-themed arts and crafts, local vendors, music, salsa lessons, free ice cream, and more.
Free parking is available along both sides of Main Street and at Dean High School. For more information, visit www.holyokerows.org, or call 413-320-3134.