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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Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation Holds Awards Banquet

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. -- The Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation Friday honored outstanding contributors to the Berkshire County sports scene at its third annual Awards Dinner at the Polish Falcon Club.
 
The foundation supports youth sports throughout the county each year.
 
In 2025-26, those donations totaled more than $30,000 to groups ranging from youth football and cheerleading programs, Pittsfield Little League, Northern Berkshire Softball and the Pittsfield Boys and Girls Club Recreation Therapy Program, to name a few.
 
Funds raised by the foundation also go to support its annual Vera Barborotta Memorial Sportsman Scholarship, which this year went to Lee High School graduate Joey Abderhalden and Taconic grad Madeline Harrington.
 
Two other recently graduated high school standout athletes were recognized as winners of the Al Bianchi Memorial Athletes of the Year: Madison McCarthy and Cooper Calvert, both of Wahconah Regional High School.
 
Pittsfield High School girls basketball coach Kristy Conyers and Hoosac Valley boys basketball coach Matt Larabee received the foundation's Coach of the Year Awards.
 
John Castonguay received the Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation Living Legend Award. A.J. Ziter took home the Connie Bianchi Memorial Award of Merit. And Mark Moulton rounded out the honorees with the foundation's Volunteer of the Year Award.
 
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