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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Thistle 'N Thorn Floral Announces Closing

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Another North Street business has announced their sudden closure.

Thistle 'N Thorn Floral announced on Instagram that its doors will close. 

"What many people don't see behind a creative business is how much it grows, shifts, and eventually asks more of you than one person can realistically carry. Between the rising costs of flowers, increasing rent, and the sheer volume of work, the business has become almost too successful for one person to sustain alone."

Owner Ashley Davidson opened the shop at 393 North St. a couple years ago and was selling flowers long before that according to her social media history.

Thistle 'N Thorn sold floral arrangements for events like weddings, funerals, and more. She also sold gifts, bouquets and wreaths according to Downtown Pittsfield Inc. Davidson also hosted events and workshops for those to create their own arrangements. 

"While this chapter is closing, I want to be very clear about something. This is not the end for me," Davidson wrote on Instagram.

"I'm incredibly proud of what I built. It took vision, grit, creativity, and a lot of courage. Those things don’t disappear just because a business chapter ends. If anything, they’re the reason I’m confident stepping into whatever comes next."

She also said she will be honoring the weddings and events she has already scheduled and plans to offer more workshops.

 
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