Wellness Day To Be Held at the North Adams American Legion

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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The community is invited to "Wellness Day: A Live Well Event" on Saturday, May 23, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the American Legion Post 125, American Legion Drive. 
 
Sponsored by the Commission on Disabilities, it is free of charge and open to the public. There will be giveaways.
 
Professionals from a variety of fields will be on hand to share their expertise with community members, highlighting valuable services and resources. Attendees can explore practical tips and guidance on mental and physical health, as well as healing practices for individuals spanning children to elders. 
 
Guests will have the opportunity to experience services such as massage and reiki, connect with a child and adolescent therapist, and speak with a special education teacher about individual needs and behavioral supports. Learn about local support groups and services that promote healthy, independent living for people of all ages and abilities, as well as engaging and educational programs designed for older adults.
 
The event will also feature a display of prosthetics and orthotics that support active living. Learn about the health benefits of plants. Attendees can consult with experts on health insurance, meet members of the Urgent Care North team, explore assistive technology options, and meet representatives from the City, including the Veterans Services Agent, ADA Coordinator, Police, Fire and Ambulance first responders, members of the Commission on Disabilities, among others.
 
For more information contact Elena Sprague, chairperson, Disabilitycommission@northadams-ma.gov
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North Adams Housing Authority Director Steps Down

Staff Reports

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Jennifer Hohn, the longtime executive director of the North Adams Housing Authority (NAHA), has stepped down after 24 years with the agency.

The Berkshire Eagle reported that Hohn resigned from her position on Thursday. The NAHA Board of Commissioners is currently developing a transition plan.

Her resignation follows rising tension between Hohn and the tenants association. Residents—particularly at the Spring and Ashland Park apartments—have raised specific concerns regarding building security, drug activity, and trespassers.

This summer, Tenants Association President Corey Fortin posted a video on social media demonstrating that door alarms in some of the buildings were not functioning.

Shortly after the video was posted, the tenants association's office was locked. Members alleged Hohn locked the space in retaliation, while Hohn maintained it was a matter of tenant safety. Hohn also stated that NAHA does not officially recognize the association because it has yet to go through official channels for certification—a claim the tenants association disputes.

The dispute culminated in plans for a formal grievance hearing between Hohn and the association. Both sides agreed to hold a meeting on Oct. 3, but the hearing had not yet been scheduled at the time of her resignation.
During her tenure as director, Hohn oversaw significant changes at NAHA, including expansion and the dissolution of Housing Opportunities Incorporated, a program founded over 30 years ago to assist first-time homebuyers. Most recently, she led efforts to transition NAHA properties from traditional public housing models to the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program. She also directed the rebuilding of a Greylock Valley Apartments building after it was severely damaged by a fire.

The NAHA Board of Commissioners meets monthly, typically on Mondays.

 

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