Adams Parks Commission Not Happy Russell Field Condition

The grass on the field is more brown than green in spots. 

ADAMS, Mass. — The Parks Commission is disappointed in the condition of the playing fields at the newly renovated Russell field.

Member Jim Fassell, after hearing complaints from Michael Mucci about the poor condition of the grass there, said, "I as an individual am very disappointed at the care of Russell Field by the contractors."

Mucci was at the bimonthly meeting of the commission to request the use of the field for Adams-Cheshire Youth Football. He said the league typically practices three times per week — Tuesday through Thursday — with Friday as a makeup day if need be.

But he noted that the grass at Russell Field has not been growing properly.

"Sometimes I see very minimal upkeep" at the field, he said, asking whether the town has been taking care of the field as well as it should have.

Rebecca Ferguson, program manager in the Community Development Department, said the field had been fertilized in the spring and that it is scheduled to be fertilized again sometime soon.

Regardless, Fassell was not happy with the contractors for the field, who he says have not done enough to maintain it.

"I don't think the contractor's fulfilled his part, and I don't think the junior football and senior football should suffer because of it."

Russell Field was also the subject of another topic of discussion at the meeting. The commission voted to accept a $3,750 donation from the Lion's Club to purchase a new scoreboard. The commission reviewed quotes from two vendors and decided to go with BSN Sports.

In other news:

• Lassie League softball will use Reid Field from Sept. 1 through Nov. 30 on Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, and every other Friday for practices.
• Adams-Cheshire Girls softball will also use Reid Field from September 1 through October 31. They will share the field with the Lassie League and work out the time-sharing arrangement among themselves.
• Renfrew Field will be used for two soccer games for Hoosac Valley on October 4 and 18.
• The next meeting of the Parks Commission will be September 13 at 5 P.M.

Cheshire Festival of Trees on View Until Dec. 31

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
12:19PM / Thursday, December 18, 2025

Businesses, nonprofits, schools and town departments provided trees for the display that reflected their missions or services. 

CHESHIRE, Mass. — There is still time to experience the festive atmosphere of the Community House. 

 

The moment you step into the town offices, you're greeted by the scent of fresh pine wafting from about 70 beautifully decorated trees on display. 

 

The town's festival of trees will be on display Monday through Thursday from 10 to 4, Friday and Saturday from 10 to 8, and Sunday from 10 to 5 until Dec. 31. The building will be closed Dec. 24 and 25. 

 

The idea started four years ago with Department of Public Works Director Corey McGrath's vision to display a decorated, lighted tree in all 13 windows of the Community House, the former Cheshire School.

 

A large part of it was to bring the community back into the building that was a mess five years ago, he said. 

 

The purpose of the building is in its name — a community pillar housing the town offices and Youth Center Inc., and a community hub featuring activities from dancing, craft fairs, wrestling, and more.  

 

Since its establishment, the display has grown into the festival it is today featuring raffles, a Christmas village, nutcrackers, and, of course, trees.