Community Pitches in on CRA Gym Renovation

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DALTON, Mass. — More than 50 volunteers came together Sunday, Sept. 28, to begin a major renovation of the Community Recreation Association's (CRA) Dalton Youth Center (DYC) gymnasium. 
 
Volunteers from the Dalton Benefit Association, Champlain Masonry, Baumann Trucking, CRA staff and Board of Trustees, and Wahconah Regional High School boys' football, basketball, and soccer teams joined forces to remove the gym's 50-year-old floor, paving the way for construction to begin.
 
The $80,000 renovation project will transform the gym with a brand-new playing surface, upgraded bench seating, wall pads, hoops, scoreboard, and a fresh coat of paint.
 
On Sept. 20, the CRA announced that the remodeled DYC gym will be dedicated as the Dan McMahon Court, honoring the CRA's longtime recreation and social program director who retired last year after 33 years of dedicated service to the organization and community.
 
"This project is about more than updating a gym — it's about honoring Dan's legacy and ensuring the next generation has a place to gather, play, and grow," said CRA Executive Director Alison Peters. "We're grateful for all those who turned out to get us off to a great start."
 
Construction is expected to be completed in time for the start of the CRA youth basketball season in Nov. 
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Berkshire Money Management Welcomes Financial Advisor

DALTON, Mass. — Berkshire Money Management (BMM) announced that Financial Advisor PJ Gagne, AIF has joined the firm. 
 
He brings a grounded, values-based approach to financial planning, helping professionals and business owners in their 50s and 60s answer financial questions and move toward retirement with clarity and confidence.
 
Gagne specializes in guiding clients through decisions—such as when to take Social Security, how to protect their children's future, and how to turn a lifetime of hard work into long-term financial security. His collaborative planning style helps clients understand their best-case scenarios while preparing for uncertainties.
 
"PJ's ability to simplify complex decisions and help clients move forward confidently makes him a tremendous addition to our team," said Allen Harris, Founder and CEO of Berkshire Money Management. "His expertise will support our continued growth as we expand services across the region and open our new Williamstown office."
 
As the firm announced earlier this year, BMM's newest location at 136 Water Street, Williamstown will be open by appointment later this month.
 
Gagne lives in South Hadley with his wife, their children, and pets. He enjoys home projects, coaching soccer, and time with family. He holds a BA in Economics from Fairfield University and is an Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF).
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