Aquatics Department wants to help you go from Overweight 2 Healthy!
03/14/2025
- The City is offering an Aquatic Fitness Program called O2H -
For someone who struggles with their weight, exercising can be very physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging. You are not alone! The City of Springfield’s Aquatics Department will be hosting an aquatic fitness program called O2H, for those who are overweight or obese. This program offers a safe, supportive, and effective way for those individuals to begin to develop a healthier lifestyle in a protected environment with other people who are also overweight.
This fitness program is designed to meet the specific needs of those who are overweight or obese. Exercising in the water allows for low-impact movements that increase range of motion and circulation. Whether you are simply walking or using our aquatic fitness equipment for extra resistance, we can offer a personalized workout for you at your own pace. No swim experience is needed, and we will have a trained lifeguard on staff for everyone’s safety.
The O2H program will be offered at Milton Bradley School on 22 Mulberry St, Springfield, MA. There is a walk-in ramp for easy access to the pool. The program will run twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30pm – 6:30pm beginning April 1, 2025 until May 29, 2025. Pre-registration is required, and there is a cash or check only fee of $60.00 per person for City residents and $70.00 per person for non-City residents. There is also a special rate for Baystate Weight Management patients, available at only $50.00 for the entire session (which includes 16 classes)! All fees are due on the first day of class. The capacity for the program will cap at 25 swimmers, so call to register soon!
For more information about the O2H program, or any other Aquatics programs, please call Joe Federico, Aquatics Director, at (413) 787-6298. Do not think of what you have to lose, think of all you will gain!
Fabulous February 2025
What an amazing time we had at our 'Fabulous February' event at the ECOS building this past Saturday, March 1, 2025! Huge thanks to our incredible partners for their hard work and dedication in making it a truly memorable event. We couldn’t have done it without you!
Already counting down the days to next year’s event!
Putnam Vocational carpentry students restore Forest Park’s historic spaces
Students in the carpentry program at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy are shaping their futures through hands-on projects. The latest group of 20 students is engaged in public service, restoring historic buildings in Forest Park and constructing homes for Habitat for Humanity.
Supervising teacher David Elia highlighted the students' contributions to various park structures over the years, including the trolley pavilion and Barney Carriage House. Currently, they are working on a stone hut and a wooden footbridge near the park's duck pond. On a recent morning, the students faced a flooded floor in the hut, which they quickly addressed. Elia noted that such challenges provide valuable experience. Isabella Santana, 16, appreciates the hands-on nature of the program, stating, "It's rewarding to create something from nothing." The students are also replacing wooden planks on a nearby deck.
In addition to on-site work, students participate in carpentry classes, learning about essential tools and safety protocols. Elia emphasized the importance of familiarity with various tools for different tasks. Students spend three to four hours a day on job sites, adapting to weather conditions with appropriate gear. Many students aspire to become union carpenters, with potential earnings of up to $100,000 annually. Derli Morales, 17, chose carpentry after being inspired by his sister and enjoys the teamwork aspect. He plans to pursue a career as a union carpenter post-graduation.
Elia noted that carpentry is a popular choice at Putnam, thanks in part to the engaging curriculum and collaboration with other trades. While traditionally male-dominated, the program is seeing an increase in female students, reflecting industry trends. The program fosters civic pride by allowing students to contribute to the community. Senior Kelsie Dixon expressed satisfaction in leaving a positive mark on Springfield through their projects. Thomas Ashe, executive director of parks, buildings, and recreation for the City of Springfield, praised the strong partnership with Putnam, highlighting the benefits of student involvement in local projects.
2024 Angie Florian Tree Lighting
The 61st anniversary of President John F. Kennedy
As we reflect on the 61st anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, we remember not only the tragic loss of a young leader but also the enduring legacy he left behind. Kennedy’s vision for a brighter future—marked by a commitment to civil rights, space exploration, and global diplomacy—continues to inspire generations. His call to "ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country" remains a timeless reminder of the responsibility we all share in shaping the world around us. Kennedy's leadership in moments of crisis, his ability to inspire hope, and his unwavering belief in the potential of the American people offer a model for future leaders. Though his life was cut short, his ideals and his belief in progress, unity, and public service continue to guide us as we strive toward a better tomorrow.
