Join BEAT To Free a Tree From Invasive Hardy Kiwi

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Join BEAT on Saturday, Aug. 8, at Burbank Park in Pittsfield to remove invasive hardy kiwi.

Hardy kiwi is an ornamental plant known for its fast and dense growing patterns that has become a significant issue in Berkshire County. The dense curtains can smother native plants, creating a monoculture that threatens biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, according to a press release.  

To help free the area of this harmful invasive, the BEAT team and volunteers will meet at the Onota Boat Launch on Saturday, Aug. 8 from 9:00 AM - Noon. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Participants will pull and cut kiwi vines, specifically removing any fruit to keep wildlife from eating it and spreading the plant further.

Participants should come prepared to walk approximately 10 minutes into the forest and spend an hour or two pulling hardy kiwi. Wearing long pants, long socks, and closed-toed shoes is important. Additionally, participants are encouraged to bring a full water bottle and any equipment, such as gloves, shears, or loppers they possess. BEAT has equipment participants can borrow. Before the pulling begins, BEAT will direct volunteers to sections of hardy kiwi and provide any necessary instructions. This event is open to everyone, regardless of previous experience. 

Register at https://tinyurl.com/beat-kiwi-pull-2026 For more information, visit thebeatnews.org or call (413) 464-9402.


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Pittsfield's Christian Center Rebrands as 'The Center'

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— The Christian Center is becoming The Center, and assures the community that while the logo and name have changed, "Our heart has not." 

The rebrand was announced on Tuesday after months of listening sessions, community conversations, and surveys.  It was emphasized that the organization's heart, mission, and commitment to the community are unchanged. 

The Center will host its annual Community Day, including a name change celebration, on Aug. 22 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"While our name is shifting, our core purpose remains steadfast. Alongside our new name, we are introducing our defining tagline—Nourish. Empower. Connect.—which reflects the three principles guiding everything we do," Executive Director Jessica Jones wrote in a newsletter. 

"Whether through our food pantry, meal program, free clothing boutique, or community events, our work remains focused on helping our neighbors access essential resources, build connections, and thrive."

The new logo features a fork, carrot, heart, and shirt, representing the pillars of The Center's service. 

The Christian Center was incorporated in 1974, but it dates back to the early 1890s, when it was the Epworth Mission, founded by the Methodist Church. 

Today, its main focus is food insecurity, but it also provides clothing, household items, and sanitary supplies to those who need them.  The Center operates a food pantry, upstairs free shop, and serves breakfast and lunch, as well as offering assistance in accessing resources. 

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