NorthamptonWinter Craft & Splash program

NORTHAMPTON — The Northampton Parks & Recreation Department is now accepting registrations for Winter Craft & Splash Program.

Participants will make a family craft, individual crafts, decorate a cookie to eat and go for a swim at JFK Middle School.

The event is Sunday, Dec. 17, starting at noon at JFK Middle School. It is designed for families with children up to 13 years old.

For more information or to register, email or call the Northampton Parks & Recreation Department at 413-587-1040 or recreation@northamptonma.gov. Registration online is available at northamptonma.gov/recreation.

Christmas pageant to be held in Hadley on Sunday

HADLEY — An annual outdoor Christmas pageant, featuring live animals, is being staged at the First Congregational Church of Hadley Sunday morning.

The performance of the traditional Christmas story with Christmas music, at 10 a.m. on the steps of the church, or in the church if there is now, features nativity roles played by churchgoers and local farm animals.

A “microservice” with the “lighting” of the outdoor Advent wreath begins the pageant. That wreath will remain lit into the evening.

Lila West, writer and director for the pageant, said it’s a long-held tradition at the church, that was moved outdoors in 2020 so that more members of the public can observe the Christmas story.

“Live farm animals have always been a highlight, but being outside allows us to invite even more four-legged friends to participate,” West said.

People are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to set up on the front lawn of the church or to stay in their vehicles in parking spots across the street.

The First Congregational Church of Hadley is located at 102 Middle St.

STEM scholarships available at HCC for spring semester

HOLYOKE — Students enrolled in chemistry, biology, engineering, mathematics, physic, or other STEM fields at Holyoke Community College can apply now for a National Science Foundation scholarship of up to $10,000 a year for tuition and fees.

Through HCC, the National Science Foundation Scholarship offers on average $6,500 per year to qualified full-time students and prorated amounts for part-time students. Both new and returning HCC students are encouraged to apply.

The application deadline for the spring 2024 semester is Jan. 7. Recipients will be notified by Jan. 12.

Students chosen for the National Science Foundation Scholarship become members of HCC’s STEM Scholars 2.0 Program, also known as SCoRE (STEM Cohorts for Research & Engagement).

Scholars are expected to maintain enrollment in a STEM program, be in good academic standing, complete an associate degree at HCC, and/or transfer to an accredited STEM degree program at a four-year institution. The scholarships are renewable every year students continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility guidelines for the National Science Foundation Scholarship in STEM can be viewed at hcc.edu/stem-scholarship.

For more information, please email nsfstem@hcc.edu.

St. Patrick’s Committee to host holiday pop-up

HOLYOKE — The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke will host its Tartan Holiday Pop-Up event on Saturday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Holyoke Merry Go Round, 221 Appleton St.

This shopping experience will feature holiday gifts and decor, a selection of Holyoke Tartan items and a photo opportunity with Santa.

For more information, visit holyokestpatricksparade.com.