MountainOne to Launch Second Children’s Book, 'Something to Save'

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.— MountainOne, a community-based financial institution, announced it has partnered once again with storybook author Doug Murphy and illustrator Laura Salafia for "Something to Save," the follow-up to MountainOne's debut book, "How to Climb a Mountain." 

MountainOne's second children's book, "Something to Save," featuring Mo, the MountainOne Spokesgoat, was released at the MountainOne Annual Meeting on April 7, 2025.

In this new adventure, Mo and his trusted friend Penny the Chipmunk set out on a journey to understand the value of saving and planning for the future. The book encourages children to understand that starting small—whether by gathering, planning, or setting aside resources—can lead to meaningful and positive outcomes in the future. The story celebrates financial education at an early age, all while remaining fun and relatable for young readers.

"The response to 'How to Climb a Mountain' was fantastic, and we're excited to continue Mo's journey with 'Something to Save,'" said Jill Amato, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Community Banking at MountainOne. "These books promote reading literacy and financial responsibility in a fun and memorable way. We look forward to bringing the storybook experience—with book readings, activities, and even some special appearances—to each of our communities this spring!"

Robert Fraser, President and CEO of MountainOne, emphasized the book's broader impact.

"'Something to Save' is more than just a story—it's a tool to help families start conversations about smart financial habits. We hope it encourages families to think about saving and goal setting from an early age," he said.

MountainOne invites local elementary schools, after-school programs, libraries, and community partners to request free reading events featuring a storytelling experience with Mo the Spokesgoat. Children who attend receive a copy of the book, and activity packets designed to reinforce key financial literacy concepts. Upcoming readings will be announced on MountainOne's social media pages. To learn more, request an event, or explore Mo's storybook adventures, visit mountainone.com/mo-storybook.

Vermont National Guard Members Depart From North Adams

By Jack GuerinoiBerkshires Staff
04:20PM / Friday, June 05, 2026

About 50 people waved flags to the see the Guardsmen off on their bus. The members were staying in North Adams because of a lack of hotel rooms in Bennington, Vt.

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Residents came together Friday to see some Vermont National Guard members off.

 

The American Legion Riders organized a send off for a group of 75 or so Guard members who were staying at Hotel Downstreet.

 

"We are going to escort them to the Bennington Armory," Riders President Mike Lewis said. "They are going to gear up there, and then I am not sure where they are going. I don’t even know if they are all going to the same place."

 

Fifty or so people met in the Hotel Downstreet parking lot to show their appreciation. They waved flags and held signs. A bagpiper was also present.

 

The Riders contacted the Fire Department who helped organize the send off. North Adams Police cruisers and Northern Berkshire EMS were also on site to help see the bus off.

 

Lewis said there was not enough rooms in Bennington for the National Guard members. He added because of the trend to use vacant hotel rooms as low-income housing, the group had to look toward North Adams.

 

It's not clear where these Guard were off to, but about 500 members of 3-172 Infantry Battalion were expected to go to the Middle East with U.S. Central Command. According to Vermont Digger, this deployment was scheduled prior to the strikes on Iran.