Charlemont approves tennis court repairs
CHARLEMONT — In a seven-minute meeting, 31 Charlemont voters unanimously approved a $200,830 repair project for the tennis courts at Hawlemont Regional School.
Town Administrator Sarah Reynolds said the meeting was brief, and most of the voters in attendance were residents who hoped to use the court after it was repaired.
The repairs include filling cracks; repaving the court for tennis, pickleball and basketball; and installing Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps and benches. The project will be funded by a $100,000 Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) grant and $100,830 in state earmark funds.
Double Edge secures inaugural theater tax credits
ASHFIELD — Double Edge Theatre was one of 28 theater companies in the state selected to receive a total $7 million through the newly established Live Theater Tax Credit Program, for its production of “The Heron’s Flight” this past summer.
The Live Theater Tax Credit Program was established under the Mass Leads Act, which was signed into law last November and invests billions into expanding and creating new tax incentives for a variety of sectors, from science to the arts. The tax credit program allows eligible theater companies to receive nonrefundable credits equal to 35% of qualifying payroll costs, 25% of production and performance expenditures, and 25% of transportation expenditures.
“From the Berkshires to Boston, this program helps our stages shine,” Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said in a statement. “By incentivizing live productions, we’re helping our local venues attract national-caliber performances, extend visitor stays and strengthen year-round tourism in every region of the state.”
Illumination Party set for Sunday
HAWLEY — Residents can expect an evening of carols, cocoa and cookies at the annual Illumination Party at the Hawley Meetinghouse at 332 East Hawley Road. The event will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14.
Participants can enjoy the lighting of the house for the holiday season. Attendees are encouraged to bring cookies and treats to share.