WRRS 104.3 LPFM Launches Radio Series Exploring Child Growth

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — WRRS 104.3 LPFM, a community radio station owned and operated by UCP of Western Massachusetts, announced the launch of a new original radio program dedicated to supporting families, caregivers, and educators as children grow from kindergarten through fifth grade.
 
The new series focuses on the personal, academic, and emotional development that takes place during each year of elementary school. Through conversations, practical insights, and real-world classroom perspectives, the program helps listeners better understand the milestones, challenges, and triumphs children experience at every stage.
 
Each episode highlights a specific grade level, exploring topics such as building foundational literacy and math skills, developing friendships, strengthening executive functioning, fostering independence, and nurturing emotional resilience. The series also examines how families and schools can work together to support children as they grow socially and academically.
 
As part of the program, WRRS interviews experienced educators, including a local second grade teacher who shares firsthand insight into what students experience during this pivotal year. The discussion explores how children transition from early learning foundations to increased academic expectations, while continuing to grow in confidence, empathy, and self-awareness.
 
"This series is designed to give parents and caregivers a clearer picture of what growth really looks like from year to year," said Sandra Seefeldt, program creator and host. "Elementary school is a time of extraordinary development, and understanding those changes helps adults better support the children in their lives."
 
The program reflects WRRS's ongoing commitment to providing informative, community-centered programming that serves listeners of all ages and backgrounds. As part of UCP of Western Massachusetts' mission to support individuals of all abilities, WRRS offers inclusive content that is accessible, educational, and relevant to families throughout the region.
 
The new child development series will air on Thursdays at 3pm and 9pm. It will also be available through the station's online streaming platform.
 
For more information about WRRS 104.3 LPFM, programming schedules, or ways to support the station, visit www.UCPWMA.org or contact Liz Irwin Radio Station Manager at 413-442-1562 ext. 122.
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Dalton Redevelopment Authority Seeks to Attract Veterinarian

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — The Dalton Redevelopment Authority is looking at revamping zoning to make it easier for a veterinarian to open an office. 
 
This was prompted by resident Kevin Herkelman, an animal nutritionist who worked with veterinarians before retiring and moving to the area about a year ago.
 
He and his wife have many animals and found that area vet offices weren't accepting new patients or were booked out for a long time.
 
"When we moved here, we were looking for a vet. We have five dogs and a cat. I used to show dogs and things like that. When we tried to find a vet, we had a hard time even finding people taking new clients. So we ended up going over to Northampton. That's where we still are," he told a recent meeting of the authority.
 
He said it's more difficult to have to travel far, and even if residents have a veterinarian, it's likely in Pittsfield so they have to leave town. 
 
Currently a veterinary office is only allowed in a B1, R1, or I1 zone and must be 100 feet from a boundary.
 
Herkelman and Chair John Boyle have been looking for a suitable location to entice a vet to come to the area but zoning has been an issue as it is very restrictive. 
 
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