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.

Clarksburg Students Write in Support of Rural School Aid

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
07:25AM / Sunday, March 15, 2026

Mason Langenback calculated that Clarksburg would get almost $1 million if the $60 million was allocated equally.

CLARKSBURG, Mass. — Eighth-graders at Clarksburg School took a lesson in civic advocacy this week, researching school funding and writing letters to Beacon Hill that call for fully funding rural school aid. 

 

The students focused on the hardships for small rural schools and their importance to the community — that they struggle with limited funding and teacher shortages, but offer safe and supportive spaces for learning and are a hub for community connections.

 

"They all address the main issue, the funding for rural schools, and how there's a gap, and there's the $4 million gap this year, and then it's about the $40 million next year, and that rural schools need that equitable funding," said social studies teacher Mark Karhan.

 

A rural schools report in 2022 found smaller school districts cost from nearly 17 percent to 23 percent more to operate, and recommended "at least" $60 million be appropriated annually for rural school aid. 

 

Gov. Maura Healey has filed for more Chapter 70 school aid, but that often is little help to small rural schools with declining or static enrollment. For fiscal 2027, she's budgeted $20 million for rural schools, up from around $13 million this year but still far below the hoped for $60 million. 

 

Karhan said the class was broken into four groups and the students were provided a submission letter from Rural Schools Advocacy. The students used the first paragraph, which laid out the funding facts, and then did research and wrote their own letters. 

 

They will submit those with a school picture to the governor.