Berkshire United Way celebrates 100 Years of Service

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PITTSFIELD, Mass — The board of directors and staff of Berkshire United Way invite members of the community to attend the organization's 100th anniversary celebration 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, at The Colonial Theatre, 111 South St., Pittsfield. 
 
During the celebration Berkshire United Way will present the Daniel C. Dillon Helping Hands, Caring Heart Award to Mary Wheat. She has been an active volunteer and guiding light with the South Community Food Pantry for more than 20 years. She also was a founder and longtime chair of the Thanksgiving Angels meal program. 
 
The event also will feature guest speaker Dr. Frances Jones-Sneed, professor emeritus of History and Political Science at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, who will reflect on the shared history of Berkshire United Way and the over the past 100 years. Jones-Sneed is a scholar and local history expert whose research and writing has focused extensively on the Berkshires and the local dimensions of African American history. 
 
Berkshire United Way was founded on April 7, 1924, as the Pittsfield Community Fund Association.
 
According to a press release:
 
As times and needs have changed, Berkshire United Way has adapted and evolved to remain relevant and effective in responding to the most pressing challenges facing people in Berkshire County. This anniversary event provides an opportunity to celebrate?100?years?of spirit and generosity in the Berkshires and to look forward to a bright, equitable, and vibrant future where everyone in our community can thrive.  
 
For event tickets and more information visit http://www.berkshireunitedway.org/centennial-celebration or call 413-442-6948 x12.

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Afternoon Arrival Estimated for Harris on Saturday

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to arrive in Pittsfield early Saturday afternoon, according to emerging information about the campaign event.

Gov. Maura Healey will greet her at Westfield-Barnes Airport around 12:30 p.m. The Pittsfield event is expected to start around 1:30 p.m.

"Please be advised that due to a special event occurring in the downtown area, we ask the public to follow all posted detours between 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 27," a press release from the city reads.

"Drivers should also expect delays downtown and should consider alternate routes. Parking restrictions will also be in place. Residents, visitors and event attendees should keep these temporary closures in mind when traveling."

Harris was scheduled for the sold-out event in downtown Pittsfield before being suddenly elevated to presidential candidate on Sunday. The original Biden-Harris fundraiser is now a Harris fundraiser but it was unclear if she would continue with her scheduled appearances.

Tickets sold out almost immediately, ranging from $100 to thousands of dollars.

"For security purposes," event details have not been disclosed such as the time and location.  It is assumed to occur at the Colonial Theatre based on a seating chart in the Eventbrite ticket link though, a representative from the theater last week denied knowledge of the event — then directed the caller to the Eventbrite link.

Josh Landes, WAMC's Berkshire bureau chief, has confirmed that he will be at the event and posted details to social media on Friday.

"We expect the program [at the Colonial Theatre] to begin at approximately 1:20 p.m. ET and for the show to conclude at 2:40 p.m. ET," the post reads.

"The program will include remarks from Senator Elizabeth Warren, Senator Ed Markey, Congressman Richie Neal, Fmr. Governor Deval Patrick and Heather Cox Richardson as well as performances by James Taylor, Yo-Yo Ma, and Emanuel Ax. Concessions will be available for purchase at the venue."

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