WMHT to Hold Listening Session in Pittsfield

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ALBANY, N.Y. — WMHT Public Media announced it has begun the second phase of its Listening Tour, part of a continued effort to better understand the needs and issues affecting communities throughout its coverage area, and to develop and present content and programming to best serve those values and priorities. 
 
Up to a dozen town hall-style discussions will be led by WMHT President and CEO Anthony V. Hayes and members of WMHT's senior leadership team. They are open to residents and viewers, and will be held in public spaces throughout WMHT's coverage area, an expansive region that runs north to the Adirondacks, east to the Berkshires, south to Westchester County, and west to the Schoharie Valley.
 
One of these listening sessions will take place in Pittsfield on May 10 at the Pittsfield Public Library
 
WMHT Public Media is a multichannel public communications organization serving Eastern New York and Western New England,
 
The initial session was held April 10 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Upcoming forums are scheduled for April 30 at SUNY Schenectady County Community College; May 2 at the Albany Public Library; May 8 at SUNY Adirondack in Queensbury; May 10 at the Pittsfield Public Library; May 28 with the NAACP and Albany Black Chamber of Commerce; and June 7 with the Troy City School District. Sessions are also being planned in the Hudson Valley and Saratoga Springs, among other potential locations. 
 
"It is essential to hear directly from our residents and viewers to better understand what's happening in their communities, not only their success stories but also the challenges they face," said Anthony V. Hayes, President and CEO of WMHT Public Media. "As we gain deeper understanding of the needs, values and priorities of each community, WMHT will be well-positioned to develop and produce content and programming that educates, empowers, and enriches the lives of our audience." 
 
Building on initial research conducted last fall, phase two of WMHT's Listening Tour aims to more fully ascertain the unique and shared needs, wants and aspirations of the region's multicultural and multiethnic communities. Additionally, it will look closely at the next generation of public-media consumers. Fueled by that information, WMHT can take action to positively impact the lives of community members, friends, and neighbors throughout its coverage area. 
 
More details about the WMHT Listening Tour, including an updated schedule of events with registration information, can be found at https://www.wmht.org/blogs/press-releases/wmht-continues-community-listening-tour/.
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School Officials Offer Condolences for Herberg Student's Sudden Passing

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A Herberg Middle School student has been identified as the presumed drowning victim at Benedict Pond in Great Barrington last week. Earl Giver Essien, who would have entered eighth grade in the fall, was remembered for her brightness in personality and academics.

Superintendent Joseph Curtis shared reflections from Herberg staff at the beginning of Monday's School Committee meeting. Faculty say Giver was a remarkable seventh-grade student whose "bright light shone brilliantly in every aspect of her life" and a "diligent rule follower who was structured and always on time."

"She was known for her strong and confident presence," Curtis said.  

"Giver loved learning and was driven by an insatiable curiosity, always asking great questions and excelling academically. She was a seeker of justice, advocating passionately for herself and everyone around her. Her warm and kind nature made her a beloved figure among peers and teachers and staff alike."

The student cherished her family deeply and had a great love for art and music, he added.

"Giver's happiness was infectious and he had a sweet tooth, especially for candy," Curtis said. "She will be remembered by the entire Pittsfield Public School community as a bright, joyful soul who touched many lives with their kindness and zest for life."

He sent his condolences to Giver's family and friends and offered full support from the Pittsfield Public Schools in any way it can. The Essien family has informed the district that services are expected to take place this week.

According to Great Barrington Police, first responders received a 911 call shortly before 2 p.m. on July 17 of a teen who was unaccounted for in the pond's beach area.

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