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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Pittsfield Council OKs Underground Fiber Network

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — More underground fiber internet cables will be installed in Pittsfield. 

On Tuesday, the City Council approved Gateway Fiber's request to install an underground fiber network infrastructure within the city's right-of-way.  

The company was given the go-ahead for an aerial network last year alongside Archtop Fiber, marking the beginning of construction with a ribbon-cutting at the Colonial Theatre. Gateway Fiber will offer subscription plans ranging from $65 to $150 per month, depending on speed. 

Wards 3 and 4 will see the most work in the first phase, according to an underground fiber deployment plan.  Fourteen streets in Ward 4 will see underground fiber deployment; 13 streets in Ward 3.  

Ward 4 Councilor James Conant voted in opposition for personal reasons, as he signed up for Gateway Fiber briefly last year and said he had poor service and poor communication from the company. 

Some councilors and community members appreciated bringing competition to Spectrum internet services. Ward 5 Councilor Patrick Kavey pointed out that it costs about $90 per month for 500 megabytes per second with Spectrum, and that all three fiber services that have come to Pittsfield are cheaper. 

Operations Manager Jennifer Sharick explained that they were seeking approval for underground fiber deployment as part of the next phase in Pittsfield. The city was found to be a "very" viable community for underground fiber. 

Gateway Fiber, she said, originally served a community of 250 residents outside of St. Louis, Mo. 

"Following the pandemic, we saw the need, and what people need for fiber and reliable internet service to bring residents and businesses the opportunity for connectivity," Sharick said. 

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