American Graduate: Sci Tech Band
In January 2007, Springfield’s Sci Tech High School had a band of about 20 members. Since UMass grad Gary Bernice joined the school the program has grown to over 500 students. The band has received recognition from all over Western Mass. Known as the “Pride of Springfield”; students also focus on developing leadership skills that go beyond the classroom. Connecting Point Contributor Carolee McGrath talks with Band leader Gary Bernice and several of its members to find out how the band has helped the students evolve as both musicians and people. Watch this segment.
Sci-Tech Band on Facebook
Sci-Tech Band
American Graduate
CISA: Wineries
According to massvacation.gov, Massachusetts features 40 licensed wineries, across, roughly 2,200-acres of wine farmland, where 439 acres are devoted exclusively to wine production. Phil Korman Executive Director at CISA, Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture, visits two local wineries in this region to learn how the business of making wine is flourishing in western Massachusetts. Watch this segment.
Mount Warner Vineyards
Black Birch Vineyard
CISA
Mason Square Boxing Coach
Rupert Daniel, a Springfield police officer, takes time out of his schedule to coach some twenty boxers ages 6 to 22 at the Dunbar Community Center in Springfield. Rupert a Lieutenant on the Springfield force was tired of locking up kids and sending them into the Juvenile court system. Mason Square Boxing gets them off the street and teaches them life lessons like discipline, respect and commitment. Watch this segment.
Mason Square Boxing on Facebook
Making It Here: A.L. Avery & Son
A.L. Avery and Son on Route 2 in Charlemont, MA has been serving the residents of the area for over 150 years. A fifth generation owned family business, Avery’s is much more than a general store – it’s both a touchstone to the past and a look at the future of retail in rural communities. Producer Tony Dunne and Videographer Mark Langevin share their story in tonight’s Making It Here. Watch this segment.
