AMHERST — Amherst musician and teacher José González was recently honored with the 2025 Latino Excellence Award, hosted annually by the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus.
Jointly nominated by State Rep. Mindy Domb, D-Amherst, and State Sen. Jo Comerford, D-Northampton, González is considered one of Puerto Rico’s premier musicians, and a major performer and composer of the cuatro, the island’s national instrument.
During the late September event at the State House, González said he received a short guided tour of the building, and thanked the legislators and their staff members.
“Well organized and well attended,” González said. “Great to see the statewide Latino talent recognized and appreciated.”
González has performed as a touring concert guitarist with major artists, such as Sandro, Libertad Lamarque and Braulio, and was also a teacher in the Holyoke Public Schools system, directing a music magnet program for 25 years. He is often seen performing at local places, such as the Amherst Survival Center, and at community Latinx events.
“Through his music and his commitment to sharing Puerto Rican culture through music, Jose is a local treasure, building bridges across our community, introducing and
affirming his cultural heritage in multiple ways,” Domb said. “Through concerts,
community celebrations and events, he continuously teaches us about the power of culture, joy, diversity and connection.”
Comerford calls him “a light and a force for building and sharing Puerto Rican culture in the wider community. “I am deeply grateful for the powerful impact of his music in sharing his cultural heritage,” she said.
Fire station open house
Fire Prevention Week will be celebrated with the annual open house at the Central fire station, 98 North Pleasant St., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Activities will include interaction with firefighters and mascots Sparky the Fire Dog and Smokey Bear, displays of new equipment and a live fire safety demonstration at noon.
The family friendly event is free and will be held rain or shine.
Amherst Community Connections milestone
A “Sweet 16” celebration for Amherst Community Connections, the organization that helps people access affordable housing, pay rents and utilities, obtain public benefits and prevents eviction, takes place Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 256 North Pleasant St.
During the afternoon, artists will be on hand to showcase their works and perform for visitors. These include Sharon Carty, who has crocheted afghans for people in need, and Bryan Caswell, who has told his life story through rapping.
“We invite everyone to stop by, connect with neighbors and community members, and be inspired,” said Hwei-Ling Greeney, founder and executive director of Amherst Community Connections.
Jones Library project
With the 1993 addition to the Jones Library completely removed to make way for the latest expansion project, the Jones Library Building Committee recently got an update on progress on the $46.1 million project.
Trey Logie, the owner’s project manager with Colliers, said the back side of the Amity Street building is where much of the visible work has happened, with riprap stones placed there to retain water and prevent runoff to the neighboring CVS Pharmacy property.
Fontaine Brothers, the general contractor, worked with a company to make sure that 75% of waste material from the demolished section was recycled. Fontaine also ensured that the original part of the library remained structurally sound.
Inside that portion has been abatement of asbestos by removing plaster and historic
millwork. A company does daily testing inside and has found no issues so far, Logie said.
Pouring the foundation for the new addition will begin within the next month.
Racial justice goals
The Judy Brooks Conversation Series is returning Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. with a discussion about how Amherst has done in meeting racial justice goals.
Sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Amherst, panelists will outline findings of a study committee. To register, go to lwvamherst.org.
In November, the conversation will focus on BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of color) youth empowerment programs in the community.
Indigenous Peoples Day
A blanket permit has been issued by Police Chief Gabriel Ting allowing retail stores to be open during regular hours on Monday, Indigenous Peoples Day.
Meeting
TUESDAY: Amherst Regional School Committee, 6:30 p.m., high school library.