Letter: A Standing Ovation for The Adams Theater

To the Editor:

I recently attended the performance of "Selected Shorts" at the Adams Theater, and I left feeling incredibly grateful for what this venue has brought to our community. As I sat listening to Brooke Adams, David Strathairn, and Tony Shalhoub bring short stories to life on stage, I was struck not only by the extraordinary talent before us, but by the vision and dedication that made such an evening possible in the Town of Adams.

In just five years, Yina Moore and her team have transformed the former movie house at 27 Park Street from a vacant building in need of major renovation into a vibrant cultural destination for North Berkshire. Today, the theater offers an impressive range of programming — live music, theater, dance, comedy, spoken word events, and community programs — truly creating something for everyone.

The Adams Theater is more than just a performance venue; it is a testament to what passion, creativity, and investment in community can accomplish. Bravo to Yina Moore, the staff, volunteers, and Board members who continue to make the arts accessible and thriving in our region.

Christine Hoyt
Adams, Mass.

Hoosac Valley Third-Graders Host Memorial Day Celebration

By Jack GuerinoiBerkshires Staff
03:51PM / Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Jason Civello, a Hoosac Valley High graduate, spoke about his 31 years in the Army and National Guard. 

ADAMS, Mass. — Hoosac Valley Elementary School third-graders hosted a Memorial Day celebration for families, community members, local veterans, and school administration on Tuesday.

 

Guest speaker retired Command Sgt. Maj. Jason F. Civello, a Hoosac Valley graduate, asked the students gathered in the school auditorium to raise their hands if they liked to help people. He said those who raised their hands have a lot in common with military personnel.

 

He then talked about his experience in the Army and how it has shaped his perspective on Memorial Day.

 

"As someone who spent over three decades serving in the United States Army, I can tell you that military service is built on many things: discipline, sacrifice, teamwork, loyalty and love of our country," he said. "But there is something else that every service member understands. Service means that some will give everything and Memorial Day is about those heroes."

 

He added that he served with many people from different backgrounds, races, and religions.

 

"Once we put on that uniform we were all one team, one mission, one family. Among those people were individuals willing to sacrifice everything for the persons standing next to them and for the country they love," he said.

 

Civello went on to say that Memorial Day is more than a summer cookout or the unofficial start of summer. He said although there is nothing wrong with enjoying these moments with friends and family, it is important to remember the real meaning of Memorial Day.