Freedom Credit Union collecting donations for Toys for Tots

SPRINGFIELD — Freedom Credit Union is collecting donations of toys and cash at its branches throughout western Massachusetts, including in Greenfield and Turners Falls, in support of Western Mass Toys for Tots, which covers Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off through Saturday, Dec. 9, and cash donations will be accepted through Friday, Dec. 29.

“There is nothing so magical as seeing the holidays through the eyes of a child,” Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch said in a statement. “We want to make them shine this season, and we know we can count on our members, staff and community to help. Last year alone, Western Mass Toys for Tots distributed books and toys to 36,762 children throughout the region. Together, we can help spread that joy even further in 2023.”

While donations are accepted at all Freedom Credit Union branches during normal business hours, residents are also encouraged to visit their local branch to help “stuff” the Freedom Van. The Greenfield branch at 74 Main St. will host the van on Monday, Dec. 4, from 9 to 10 a.m.

Silver screen holiday classics being shown through Dec. 23

GREENFIELD — The Garden Cinemas has launched the second annual, five-week series of silver screen holiday classics on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. Sponsored by Liberty Tax Service, these screenings are free for the public to attend.

“We had so much fun with Liberty last year we had to do it again,” Garden Cinemas co-owner Angela Mass said in a statement.

Having launched on Small Business Saturday with a screening of “Boys Town,” the series continues:

■Saturday, Dec. 2, at 10 a.m. — “A Christmas Carol” (1938). Santa will also be at the theater from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. as part of Jinglefest.

■Saturday, Dec. 9, at 10 a.m. — “Batman Returns” (1992). The Garden challenges anyone to watch this film and not agree it is a Christmas movie. Full refunds of admission will be provided for anyone who disagrees.

■Saturday, Dec. 16, at 10 a.m. — “Gremlins” (1984).

■Saturday, Dec. 23, at 10 a.m. — “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”

Dec. 23 will also feature a free 11 a.m. showing of “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” From noon to 7 p.m., representatives of Duckworld, a duck rescue facility and sanctuary at Ripley Farm in Montague, will be on hand with live mallards in celebration of the new Illumination film “Migration.”

Franklin County CDC holds 44th annual meeting

GREENFIELD — The Franklin County Community Development Corporation held its 44th annual meeting at Gateway City Arts in Holyoke on Thursday, Nov. 16.

Two longtime board members stepped down after many years of service. Darren Gale of Innovative Design Concepts joined the board in 2008. Andrea Nathanson of Springfield Technical Community College served since 2014.

Both have led the organization as board chairperson for at least two years. They were thanked for their contributions to the Franklin County CDC. Nathanson and Gale have agreed to serve on the organization’s advisory board.

Four new board members were elected: Carey Baker of Midnightson Designs, Rochelle Bellin of DAISA Enterprises, Michelle Laurie of Greenfield Savings Bank and Tina Stevens of Stevens Design.

The 44th annual meeting celebrated entrepreneurs throughout western Massachusetts who create jobs and keep the local economy vibrant. From Africana Villa owner Roseline Chiuwa, attendees heard about the persistence, hard work and ultimately joy in creating community in Springfield around west African food. Chelsea Beaudry of Sweet Babu’s described the pandemic project that turned into a thriving granola business with a presence in 20 regional venues. Hameed Bello talked about what it takes to be of service to society through his Agric Organic farm and soon-to-open retail store in Springfield.

Additionally, Executive Director John Waite presented a snapshot of the organization’s activities during fiscal year 2023. The Franklin County CDC worked with more than 350 entrepreneurs and approved 33 loans totaling $2.826 million. Its work resulted in the creation or retention of 184 jobs in western Massachusetts.