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We provide information for print, broadcast and digital outlets covering news about the Eastern States Exposition, year-round events, The Big E, and Storrowton Village Museum. If you are a member of the media and need further assistance or would like to become a member of our media list, please contact:

Elizabeth Gourde
Communications & Public Relations Coordinator
Eastern States Exposition
EGourde@TheBigE.com
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Transcript

NEWSLETTERS

Expo Edition Winter 2026

Expo Edition Spring 2026

PRESS RELEASES

Become a Friend of Storrowton Village Storrowton Village Museum of West Springfield, Mass., has launched a membership program, called “Friends of the Storrowton Village.” Members receive exclusive perks during each of the historic site’s year-round programs and special events. Storrowton Village Museum of West Springfield, Mass., has launched a membership program, called “Friends of the Storrowton Village.” Members receive exclusive perks during each of the historic site’s year-round programs and special events.

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Spend a Summer Day Touring Storrowton Village As you map out how you’ll be spending your staycation with your family, consider a trip to Storrowton Village Museum in West Springfield, Mass., for an exciting and educational day. As you map out how you’ll be spending your staycation with your family, consider a trip to Storrowton Village Museum in West Springfield, Mass., for an exciting and educational day.

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Summer Sessions at the Sam Adams Beer Garden The Sam Adams Beer Garden pop-up, nestled on the lush green lawns of Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield, Mass., is an idyllic setting for your summer evenings. The Sam Adams Beer Garden pop-up, nestled on the lush green lawns of Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield, Mass., is an idyllic setting for your summer evenings.

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How Cindy Westover is Keeping a Farming Legacy Alive Eastern States Exposition (ESE) debuts another installment in their Agriculture is Our Culture video series on Monday, May 4. The subjects of this springtime special are Dave and Cindy Westover of Great Brook Farm, a multigenerational sugarhouse in N.H. Eastern States Exposition (ESE) debuts another installment in their Agriculture is Our Culture video series on Monday, May 4. The subjects of this springtime special are Dave and Cindy Westover of Great Brook Farm, a multigenerational sugarhouse in N.H.

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Gene Cassidy Presents Spotlight Award As Chair of Explore Western Mass and President and CEO of Eastern States Exposition (ESE), Gene Cassidy had the honor of presenting Bradley International Airport with the Spotlight Award at the Howdy Gala on Monday, April 28. As Chair of Explore Western Mass and President and CEO of Eastern States Exposition (ESE), Gene Cassidy had the honor of presenting Bradley International Airport with the Spotlight Award at the Howdy Gala on Monday, April 28.

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Built from the Fairgrounds Up Dana Henry founded Rosie Robotics (#839) after attending a robotics presentation at The Big E. More than 25 years later, the club has positively impacted generations of students, and Henry has helped put ESE on the map through FIRST Robotics. Dana Henry founded Rosie Robotics (#839) after attending a robotics presentation at The Big E. More than 25 years later, the club has positively impacted generations of students, and Henry has helped put ESE on the map through FIRST Robotics.

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Kim Wolfe & Marvin Howard Nominated for Howdy Awards Kim Wolfe and Marvin Howard have both been selected as finalists for the Howdy Awards, the region’s recognition for excellence in hospitality. Voting for the Howdy People’s Choice award is live on ExploreWesternMass.com until April 23 at midnight. Kim Wolfe and Marvin Howard have both been selected as finalists for the Howdy Awards, the region’s recognition for excellence in hospitality. Voting for the Howdy People’s Choice award is live on ExploreWesternMass.com until April 23 at midnight.

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IAFE Designates Mackenzie Coburn a CFE The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) is proud to announce that Mackenzie Coburn, Sponsorship Sales Manager, of Eastern States Exposition has been designated as a Certified Fair Executive during the 2026 IAFE Management Conference. The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) is proud to announce that Mackenzie Coburn, Sponsorship Sales Manager, of Eastern States Exposition has been designated as a Certified Fair Executive during the 2026 IAFE Management Conference.

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Samantha Sawyer Joins Marketing Team Samantha Sawyer of Middlefield, Mass., has started a full-time venture as brand creative coordinator at Eastern States Exposition (ESE). Samantha Sawyer of Middlefield, Mass., has started a full-time venture as brand creative coordinator at Eastern States Exposition (ESE).

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West Springfield Leaders Visit Sister City in Ireland The Dingle Tourism Alliance and the Kerry County Council welcomed Mayor Will Reichelt of West Springfield, the Irish Cultural Center, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and other town leaders to Ireland for St. Patrick's Day. The Dingle Tourism Alliance and the Kerry County Council welcomed Mayor Will Reichelt of West Springfield, the Irish Cultural Center, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and other town leaders to Ireland for St. Patrick's Day.

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West Springfield Tartan Now at Cooper's Gifts Since 2016, the West Springfield Tartan has represented the town’s enduring Irish population. Given the pattern’s decade anniversary, the team at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) announces five new products and is now available at Cooper’s Gifts. Since 2016, the West Springfield Tartan has represented the town’s enduring Irish population. Given the pattern’s decade anniversary, the team at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) announces five new products and is now available at Cooper’s Gifts.

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The Big E Accepting Applications for The Big Parade Interested in showcasing your group or organization in The Big Parade at The Big E? Fill out an application through TheBigE.com, now through Friday, June 26. The Big Parade winds around the fairgrounds daily at 6pm during the Fair, Sept. 18 to Oct. 4. Interested in showcasing your group or organization in The Big Parade at The Big E? Fill out an application through TheBigE.com, now through Friday, June 26. The Big Parade winds around the fairgrounds daily at 6pm during the Fair, Sept. 18 to Oct. 4.

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Storrowton Village Sees Record Sales for Maple Harvest Day For years Storrowton Village Museum’s Maple Harvest Day and Pancake Breakfast has been a hallmark of the start of spring for many Western Mass. residents. On Saturday, March 14, an influx in ticket sales confirmed a 50% increase in sales. For years Storrowton Village Museum’s Maple Harvest Day and Pancake Breakfast has been a hallmark of the start of spring for many Western Mass. residents. On Saturday, March 14, an influx in ticket sales confirmed a 50% increase in sales.

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The Big E's Band Organ Finds New Home at Showmen's Musuem in Florida This staple of Eastern States Exposition (ESE) was recently purchased by Lee Stevens of the International Independent Showmen’s Museum in Riverview, Fla. It was unveiled at the museum during a press conference on Tuesday, February 10. This staple of Eastern States Exposition (ESE) was recently purchased by Lee Stevens of the International Independent Showmen’s Museum in Riverview, Fla. It was unveiled at the museum during a press conference on Tuesday, February 10.

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Representative Drye of New Hampshire Pushes for State Involvement at The Big E State Representative Margaret Drye of Plainfield, N.H., has proposed a bill to acknowledge the third Friday after Labor Day as “New Hampshire Day at The Big E” in the state of New Hampshire. State Representative Margaret Drye of Plainfield, N.H., has proposed a bill to acknowledge the third Friday after Labor Day as “New Hampshire Day at The Big E” in the state of New Hampshire.

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ESE Seeks Nominations for 2026 Agricultural Adventurers Award Nominations are now open for the 2026 Agricultural Adventurers Award, one of Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) most meaningful and prestigious accolades. Nominations are now open for the 2026 Agricultural Adventurers Award, one of Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) most meaningful and prestigious accolades.

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Intern Owen McIntosh Signs on Full-time with Storrowton Village Museum Owen McIntosh of Bloomfield, Conn., has accepted a position with Storrowton Village Museum as program assistant. His responsibilities will include processing applications for and facilitating youth education programs, collections projects and more. Owen McIntosh of Bloomfield, Conn., has accepted a position with Storrowton Village Museum as program assistant. His responsibilities will include processing applications for and facilitating youth education programs, collections projects and more.

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Pope Francis Student Joins ESE for a Day Gia Danso, a junior at Pope Francis Preparatory School (PFPS), recently shadowed Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) Marketing department. During her visit, she observed the team’s daily operations and gained insight on marketing initiatives. Gia Danso, a junior at Pope Francis Preparatory School (PFPS), recently shadowed Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) Marketing department. During her visit, she observed the team’s daily operations and gained insight on marketing initiatives.

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Maple Harvest Day and Pancake Breakfast Maple Harvest Day & Pancake Breakfast returns to Storrowton Village Museum on Saturday, March 14, from 10am-1pm. Learn about the history of maple harvesting in New England while indulging in a delicious meal provided by the West Springfield Lions Club. Maple Harvest Day & Pancake Breakfast returns to Storrowton Village Museum on Saturday, March 14, from 10am-1pm. Learn about the history of maple harvesting in New England while indulging in a delicious meal provided by the West Springfield Lions Club.

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Jessica Cote Joins ESE as Full-Time Office Coordinator Jessica Cote of Longmeadow, Mass., has started a new role at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) as office coordinator. Jessica Cote of Longmeadow, Mass., has started a new role at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) as office coordinator.

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Tessa Morrissey Hired as Food Concession Service Manager Eastern States Exposition (ESE) welcomes Tessa Morrissey of Shelburne Falls, Mass., to the Sales department as food concession service manager. Eastern States Exposition (ESE) welcomes Tessa Morrissey of Shelburne Falls, Mass., to the Sales department as food concession service manager.

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"Stories from the Farm" Series Spotlights Mineral Hills Winery Our “Agriculture is Our Culture” initiative reminds the public of the not-for-profit’s guiding agricultural mission with its “Stories from the Farm” film series. On January 13, the series concludes its 2025 run with Mineral Hills. Our “Agriculture is Our Culture” initiative reminds the public of the not-for-profit’s guiding agricultural mission with its “Stories from the Farm” film series. On January 13, the series concludes its 2025 run with Mineral Hills.

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50th Anniversary Yuletide at Storrowton Village Museum Sets Attendance Record Yuletide presented by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) has been a time-honored tradition at Storrowton Village Museum for 50 years. This year’s semi-centennial celebrations, December 6-13, began with a free weekend that attracted nearly 700 people. Yuletide presented by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) has been a time-honored tradition at Storrowton Village Museum for 50 years. This year’s semi-centennial celebrations, December 6-13, began with a free weekend that attracted nearly 700 people.

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ESE Continues "Stories from the Farm" Series with Feature on MDAR Commissioner Randle “Stories from the Farm” continues December 16 with a special all about the impact of 4-H on students’ lives, featuring Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner Ashley Randle and Hampden County 4-Her, Lizzy Kadzik. “Stories from the Farm” continues December 16 with a special all about the impact of 4-H on students’ lives, featuring Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner Ashley Randle and Hampden County 4-Her, Lizzy Kadzik.

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The Big E Returns from IAFE Convention with Awards and Certificates ESE employees traveled to Denver, Colo., for the IAFE Convention and Trade Show, November 29 through December 4. The contingent returned with awards for photography, agriculture and innovation as well as graduate certificates. ESE employees traveled to Denver, Colo., for the IAFE Convention and Trade Show, November 29 through December 4. The contingent returned with awards for photography, agriculture and innovation as well as graduate certificates.

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ESE Welcomes Drew Dawson as Hooplandia General Manager Drew Dawson of Guilford, Conn., has joined ESE as Hooplandia General Manager. He will oversee operations for the event and strategize leading up to the festival, which is held the third weekend in June annually. Drew Dawson of Guilford, Conn., has joined ESE as Hooplandia General Manager. He will oversee operations for the event and strategize leading up to the festival, which is held the third weekend in June annually.

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The Big E Named Fourth Largest Fair The Big E, America’s only multi-state fair, has retained its standing as the fourth largest event of its kind in North America by Carnival Warehouse, the leading trade publication for the North American outdoor amusement and fair industry. The Big E, America’s only multi-state fair, has retained its standing as the fourth largest event of its kind in North America by Carnival Warehouse, the leading trade publication for the North American outdoor amusement and fair industry.

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Leaders from Fair Industry Advocate for Amusement Employees ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, ESE Trustees, leadership from the Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) and members of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) journeyed to the White House to advocate before Congress. ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, ESE Trustees, leadership from the Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) and members of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) journeyed to the White House to advocate before Congress.

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ESE Donates Trees Decked in ESE Cheer to Two Fundraisers this Year This past week, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) employees filled trees with tinsel and Fair tidings for the Springfield Boys & Girls Club's Annual Festival of Trees and the Melha Shriners’ Feztival of Trees. Both fundraisers are open to the public. This past week, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) employees filled trees with tinsel and Fair tidings for the Springfield Boys & Girls Club's Annual Festival of Trees and the Melha Shriners’ Feztival of Trees. Both fundraisers are open to the public.

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ESE Presents Media Awards at MAFA Conference On Saturday, November 15, members of the Eastern States Exposition staff, led by ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, traveled to Devens, Mass., to present media awards at the Massachusetts Agricultural Fairs Association (MAFA) Conference. On Saturday, November 15, members of the Eastern States Exposition staff, led by ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, traveled to Devens, Mass., to present media awards at the Massachusetts Agricultural Fairs Association (MAFA) Conference.

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ESE and Central Chevrolet Host Caravan of Toys with Local Car Clubs The Car Club of New England and Corvette Club of Western Mass. partnered with Central Chevrolet and Eastern States Exposition (ESE) to host a toy drive in West Springfield, Mass. The Car Club of New England and Corvette Club of Western Mass. partnered with Central Chevrolet and Eastern States Exposition (ESE) to host a toy drive in West Springfield, Mass.

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ESE Rounds Up Beef from 4-H Sale for Donation to Hunger Relief Efforts Annually, the ESE Board of Trustees donates beef purchased at The Big E’s 4-H Beef Sale to organizations that combat food insecurity in Western Mass. Annually, the ESE Board of Trustees donates beef purchased at The Big E’s 4-H Beef Sale to organizations that combat food insecurity in Western Mass.

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"Stories from the Farm" Series Features E. Cecchi Farms The “Stories from the Farm” series continues November 19 with a feature on E. Cecchi Farms of Feeding Hills, Mass. Brothers Bobby and Michael Cecchi share the touching story of a farm passed down from generation to generation. The “Stories from the Farm” series continues November 19 with a feature on E. Cecchi Farms of Feeding Hills, Mass. Brothers Bobby and Michael Cecchi share the touching story of a farm passed down from generation to generation.

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The ESE-West Springfield Trust Provides Funding for Boys & Girls Club Technology Lab On Monday, October 20, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Town of West Springfield visited the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club to present a check for $6,000 that afforded the club an all-new technology lab for the students it serves. On Monday, October 20, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Town of West Springfield visited the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club to present a check for $6,000 that afforded the club an all-new technology lab for the students it serves.

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NAME Generously Donates Steer Back to 4-H Beef Sale On Monday, September 22, The Big E hosted its annual 4-H Beef Sale at the Mallary Complex. The event was well attended and welcomed many buyers, including North American Midway Entertainment (NAME) which generously donated their steer back to the sale. On Monday, September 22, The Big E hosted its annual 4-H Beef Sale at the Mallary Complex. The event was well attended and welcomed many buyers, including North American Midway Entertainment (NAME) which generously donated their steer back to the sale.

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OABA Jamboree Sets Fundraising Record at ESE The Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) Jamboree, an annual fundraiser that brings together leaders from the fair and carnival industries, took place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield, Mass., during The Big E 2025. The Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) Jamboree, an annual fundraiser that brings together leaders from the fair and carnival industries, took place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield, Mass., during The Big E 2025.

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"Stories from the Farm" Returns with Special on Yankee Rock Farm Meet sweethearts Siri and Colin of Yankee Rock Farm when "Stories from the Farm" returns on October 27. Meet sweethearts Siri and Colin of Yankee Rock Farm when "Stories from the Farm" returns on October 27.

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Hammersmith Belgians Inducted into ESE Hall of Fame On Saturday, September 27, the Hammersmith Belgian hitch completed its final lap at The Big E Draft Horse Show and was inducted into the Equestrian Hall of Fame at the Coliseum in West Springfield, Mass. On Saturday, September 27, the Hammersmith Belgian hitch completed its final lap at The Big E Draft Horse Show and was inducted into the Equestrian Hall of Fame at the Coliseum in West Springfield, Mass.

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The Fiber Festival of New England Returns to Eastern States Exposition, Nov. 1 & 2 Visit The Fiber Festival of New England at the Mallary Complex in West Springfield, Mass., on Saturday, November 1, from 9am-5pm, and Sunday, November 2, from 9am-3pm. Visit The Fiber Festival of New England at the Mallary Complex in West Springfield, Mass., on Saturday, November 1, from 9am-5pm, and Sunday, November 2, from 9am-3pm.

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Green Pastures Agricultural Awards 2025 On Friday, September 12, dairy farm families from across the Northeast gathered to be recognized for their excellence at the New England Green Pastures Recognition Banquet at The Big E in West Springfield, Mass. On Friday, September 12, dairy farm families from across the Northeast gathered to be recognized for their excellence at the New England Green Pastures Recognition Banquet at The Big E in West Springfield, Mass.

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Senator John Velis Receives Quilt of Valor On Friday, September 12, Senator John Velis received a Quilt of Valor for his service to our country and contributions to veteran relief, including securing funding for the rebuilding of the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke, Mass. On Friday, September 12, Senator John Velis received a Quilt of Valor for his service to our country and contributions to veteran relief, including securing funding for the rebuilding of the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke, Mass.

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Virginia McMullan Presented with Donald Dowd Award Annually, the final day of The Big E is the Fair’s Salute to Special Olympics, brought to you by Bulkley Richardson. The day begins with a reception at the Storrowton Gazebo. This year, Virginia McMullan of Agawam, Mass., was presented with an award. Annually, the final day of The Big E is the Fair’s Salute to Special Olympics, brought to you by Bulkley Richardson. The day begins with a reception at the Storrowton Gazebo. This year, Virginia McMullan of Agawam, Mass., was presented with an award.

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Grand Champion Horses Retires ESE is honored that Ricky Harris, Cheryl Innis and Rodney Hicks, owners of the 2021 World’s Grand Champion, My Casey, chose The Big E for their award-winning saddle horse’s retirement. ESE is honored that Ricky Harris, Cheryl Innis and Rodney Hicks, owners of the 2021 World’s Grand Champion, My Casey, chose The Big E for their award-winning saddle horse’s retirement.

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4-H Beef Scholarships Just before the 4-H Beef Auction began, Mike Gauvin, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) 4-H Chairman, called eight students to the front of the arena to each receive recognition and a $1,000 scholarship. Just before the 4-H Beef Auction began, Mike Gauvin, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) 4-H Chairman, called eight students to the front of the arena to each receive recognition and a $1,000 scholarship.

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Fair Food Drive for Rachel's Table On Monday, September 29, Jessica and Mike Craig, volunteers with Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts (RTWM), arrived at the fairgrounds to collect food donations. On Monday, September 29, Jessica and Mike Craig, volunteers with Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts (RTWM), arrived at the fairgrounds to collect food donations.

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Trustee Scholarships for UConn Students The recipients of this year's $3,000 trustee scholarships were UConn students Rebecca Syme and Alexandra Garlick. The recipients of this year's $3,000 trustee scholarships were UConn students Rebecca Syme and Alexandra Garlick.

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FFA Star Awards Presented at The Big E Eastern States Exposition’s annual FFA Star Awards were distributed to four hardworking students on Saturday, September 13, under The Big Top Tent at The Big E. Eastern States Exposition’s annual FFA Star Awards were distributed to four hardworking students on Saturday, September 13, under The Big Top Tent at The Big E.

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Connecticut River Valley Navy Week at The Big E The Big E is rolled out a star-spangled lineup now through Sunday to educate the public about the importance of the U.S. Department of Defense’s maritime service branch. The Big E is rolled out a star-spangled lineup now through Sunday to educate the public about the importance of the U.S. Department of Defense’s maritime service branch.

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ESE Gives Grant to Outfit WSPD Motorcycles Eastern States Exposition has given a generous grant to the West Springfield Police Department to outfit two motorcycles with essential equipment, including computers, printers, cameras and other traffic safety resources. Eastern States Exposition has given a generous grant to the West Springfield Police Department to outfit two motorcycles with essential equipment, including computers, printers, cameras and other traffic safety resources.

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Martha Seifert Receives the Vermont Building Award Saturday, September 20, was Vermont Day at The Big E, and Martha Seifert of Middlebury, Vt., was presented with the Vermont Building Award in front of the award’s namesake on the Avenue of States at Eastern States Exposition (ESE). Saturday, September 20, was Vermont Day at The Big E, and Martha Seifert of Middlebury, Vt., was presented with the Vermont Building Award in front of the award’s namesake on the Avenue of States at Eastern States Exposition (ESE).

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Meet Storrowton Village Museum's Summer Interns This summer, the Museum’s internship program welcomed Owen McIntosh and Bella Theodorou as helping hands. Both interns assist with the curation and care of the Village’s 18th-19th century library archives. This summer, the Museum’s internship program welcomed Owen McIntosh and Bella Theodorou as helping hands. Both interns assist with the curation and care of the Village’s 18th-19th century library archives.

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Linda McLaughlin is New ESE Fund Manager Linda McLaughlin recently accepted the position of manager of the ESE Fund, the not-for-profit organization’s fundraising department that works to build donor support for ESE’s year-round programming. Linda McLaughlin recently accepted the position of manager of the ESE Fund, the not-for-profit organization’s fundraising department that works to build donor support for ESE’s year-round programming.

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Maddy Murphy is Marketing's New Intern Throughout summer of 2025, Madeline “Maddy” Murphy, of Wilbraham, Mass., has served as a part-time communications intern with Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) Marketing department. Throughout summer of 2025, Madeline “Maddy” Murphy, of Wilbraham, Mass., has served as a part-time communications intern with Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) Marketing department.

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34 Local Organizations Benefit from the ESE-West Springfield Trust On June 12, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and members of the wider team visited the West Springfield Town Hall to present a check for $370,970 to the trust, which is the organization’s largest donation to date. On June 12, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and members of the wider team visited the West Springfield Town Hall to present a check for $370,970 to the trust, which is the organization’s largest donation to date.

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Mo Freniere Inducted into BusinessWest's 40 Under Forty Maureen “Mo” Freniere, deputy director of Sales at Eastern States Exposition (ESE), has been welcomed into Business West ’s 40 Under Forty class of 2025. She is recognized for her salient contributions to ESE and a life committed to agriculture. Maureen “Mo” Freniere, deputy director of Sales at Eastern States Exposition (ESE), has been welcomed into Business West ’s 40 Under Forty class of 2025. She is recognized for her salient contributions to ESE and a life committed to agriculture.

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2024 Economic Impact Totals Nearly $1.2 Billion Regional Economic Models, Inc. (REMI) of Amherst, Mass., found that Eastern States Exposition’s economic impact on Hampden County was $235 million in Gross Regional Product and its larger footprint across New England and New York was $1.167 billion. Regional Economic Models, Inc. (REMI) of Amherst, Mass., found that Eastern States Exposition’s economic impact on Hampden County was $235 million in Gross Regional Product and its larger footprint across New England and New York was $1.167 billion.

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John Ramirez Promoted to Manager of Public Safety & Security John Ramirez has been promoted to Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) Manager of Public Safety and Security. In this role, Ramirez will assume many of the responsibilities previously assigned to ESE’s former Director of Public Safety and Security. John Ramirez has been promoted to Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) Manager of Public Safety and Security. In this role, Ramirez will assume many of the responsibilities previously assigned to ESE’s former Director of Public Safety and Security.

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The Big E Gold Medal Cheese Competition New England’s best licensed cheesemakers congregate in West Springfield, Mass., to showcase their finest products, gain industry recognition and reach a broad audience. The competition returned to ESE on Friday, July 11. New England’s best licensed cheesemakers congregate in West Springfield, Mass., to showcase their finest products, gain industry recognition and reach a broad audience. The competition returned to ESE on Friday, July 11.

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Samantha DePergola Promoted to Assistant Director of Education & Human Resources Samantha DePergola of West Springfield, Mass., has been promoted to assistant director of Education & Human Resources at ESE, effective June 2. Samantha DePergola of West Springfield, Mass., has been promoted to assistant director of Education & Human Resources at ESE, effective June 2.

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Roberta G. Doering School Celebrates Bring a Vet to School Day at ESE On Friday, June 13, students from Robert G. Doering Middle School in Agawam, Mass., congregated at Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) historic Coliseum for Bring a Vet to School Day. This ceremony is an annual tradition that honors the men and women who ha On Friday, June 13, students from Robert G. Doering Middle School in Agawam, Mass., congregated at Eastern States Exposition’s (ESE) historic Coliseum for Bring a Vet to School Day. This ceremony is an annual tradition that honors the men and women who ha

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Feed The Children Resource Rally at Eastern States Exposition On Tuesday, June 11, Feed the Children held a Resource Rally, sponsored by Price Rite, at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass. The charitable organization partnered with the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club and the Parish Cupboard. On Tuesday, June 11, Feed the Children held a Resource Rally, sponsored by Price Rite, at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass. The charitable organization partnered with the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club and the Parish Cupboard.

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ESE Presents Three Local Seniors with $4,500 in Scholarships This year’s recipients are Meksha Patel, Eibhlinn White and Jordyn Rossi. They were presented with their awards by ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy on Tuesday, June 10. This year’s recipients are Meksha Patel, Eibhlinn White and Jordyn Rossi. They were presented with their awards by ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy on Tuesday, June 10.

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ESE Presents Copps Island Oysters with Agricultural Adventurers Award On Monday, June 9, Eastern States Exposition bestowed Copps Island Oysters by Norm Bloom and Son, LLC with the Agricultural Adventurers Award. On Monday, June 9, Eastern States Exposition bestowed Copps Island Oysters by Norm Bloom and Son, LLC with the Agricultural Adventurers Award.

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Cliff Hedges, Director of Public Safety & Security, Retires Cliff Hedges, Director of Public Safety and Security at Eastern States Exposition (ESE), has retired as of May 30, 2025. He has agreed to return during The Big E 2025, per request of ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, as ESE’s Public Safety Liaison. Cliff Hedges, Director of Public Safety and Security at Eastern States Exposition (ESE), has retired as of May 30, 2025. He has agreed to return during The Big E 2025, per request of ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, as ESE’s Public Safety Liaison.

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ESE Team Recognized with Patriot Awards for Military Support On Friday, May 23, Earl T. Bonett of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), visited ESE to recognize ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and Johnny Ramirez, ESE’s Captain of Public Safety, with the Patriot Award. On Friday, May 23, Earl T. Bonett of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), visited ESE to recognize ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy and Johnny Ramirez, ESE’s Captain of Public Safety, with the Patriot Award.

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The Big East Regional Youth and Jackpot Show at ESE is a Hit! The Big East Regional Youth and Jackpot Show returned to Eastern States Exposition, May 2-4, accompanied by the New England Hereford Association’s Regional Show and the Northeast Highland Cattle Association (NEHCA) Spring Show & Gathering. The Big East Regional Youth and Jackpot Show returned to Eastern States Exposition, May 2-4, accompanied by the New England Hereford Association’s Regional Show and the Northeast Highland Cattle Association (NEHCA) Spring Show & Gathering.

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Students Represent ESE at Massachusetts Agriculture in Action Expo On Saturday, April 26, three students from the Sutton 4-H Club of Sutton, Mass., represented Eastern States Exposition (ESE) at the Massachusetts Agriculture in Action Expo at Mount Wachusett Community College. On Saturday, April 26, three students from the Sutton 4-H Club of Sutton, Mass., represented Eastern States Exposition (ESE) at the Massachusetts Agriculture in Action Expo at Mount Wachusett Community College.

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Samantha DePergola Attends Creative Sector Day at the State House To keep pace with ever-changing policies, Samantha DePergola, Eastern States Exposition’s adult education coordinator, represented Storrowton Village Museum and the ESE History Museum at MASSCreative’s Creative Sector Day in Boston, Mass. To keep pace with ever-changing policies, Samantha DePergola, Eastern States Exposition’s adult education coordinator, represented Storrowton Village Museum and the ESE History Museum at MASSCreative’s Creative Sector Day in Boston, Mass.

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ESE Promotes Agriculture at Springfield Regional Chamber Beacon Hill Summit Tim Garstka, director of Sales, and Sam Roberts, Hooplandia event coordinator, both attended as representatives of Eastern States Exposition, intent on promoting the organization’s mission during the gathering. Tim Garstka, director of Sales, and Sam Roberts, Hooplandia event coordinator, both attended as representatives of Eastern States Exposition, intent on promoting the organization’s mission during the gathering.

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The Amherst Railway Society Gifts ESE Model of the Young Building The Northeast Large Scale Train Show, organized by the Amherst Railway Society, rolled into ESE, May 3-4. Show organizers presented ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy with a model diorama of the Young Building. The Northeast Large Scale Train Show, organized by the Amherst Railway Society, rolled into ESE, May 3-4. Show organizers presented ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy with a model diorama of the Young Building.

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Stephen Morrissey Wins Howdy Award for Excellence in Hospitality In 2025, ESE was well represented at the Howdy Awards to support the organization’s two finalists, Freddie Marion and Stephen Morrissey. During the gala, Morrissey was announced as the winner in Transportation. In 2025, ESE was well represented at the Howdy Awards to support the organization’s two finalists, Freddie Marion and Stephen Morrissey. During the gala, Morrissey was announced as the winner in Transportation.

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Anthony Yacovone Jr. Joins ESE's Full-Time Staff Anthony “Tony” Yacovone Jr., of Springfield, Mass., has accepted a full-time general maintenance position in the Operations department at Eastern States Exposition (ESE). He and his family have been a proud part of ESE's team beyond this promotion. Anthony “Tony” Yacovone Jr., of Springfield, Mass., has accepted a full-time general maintenance position in the Operations department at Eastern States Exposition (ESE). He and his family have been a proud part of ESE's team beyond this promotion.

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The Big E Wins "Best Local Festival" in Best of the Valley 2025 The votes are in for Valley Advocate’s Best of the Valley 2025, and The Big E in West Springfield, Mass., has won “Best Local Festival!” ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy extends his gratitude to surrounding community for their consistent support. The votes are in for Valley Advocate’s Best of the Valley 2025, and The Big E in West Springfield, Mass., has won “Best Local Festival!” ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy extends his gratitude to surrounding community for their consistent support.

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Storrowton Village Museum's Maple Harvest Day and Pancake Breakfast Sets Record Attendance The event proved a sweet success with record-breaking attendance! The West Springfield Lion’s Club served sausage and homemade pancakes to nearly 400 visitors, and topped each plate with pure maple syrup generously supplied by Ferrindino Maple. The event proved a sweet success with record-breaking attendance! The West Springfield Lion’s Club served sausage and homemade pancakes to nearly 400 visitors, and topped each plate with pure maple syrup generously supplied by Ferrindino Maple.

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ESE Brings a Touch of West Springfield Tartan to Holyoke's St. Patrick's Day Weekend Eastern States Exposition (ESE) debuted a booth at Holyoke’s St. Patrick’s Road Race for the first time on Saturday, March 22. Eastern States Exposition (ESE) debuted a booth at Holyoke’s St. Patrick’s Road Race for the first time on Saturday, March 22.

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ESE Hosts Blessing of the Float Event After Holyoke’s St. Patrick’s Road Race on Saturday, March 22, the West Springfield Parade Committee made their way to the Young Building at the Eastern States Exposition (ESE) complex for the reveal of the West Springfield Colleens’ parade float. After Holyoke’s St. Patrick’s Road Race on Saturday, March 22, the West Springfield Parade Committee made their way to the Young Building at the Eastern States Exposition (ESE) complex for the reveal of the West Springfield Colleens’ parade float.

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ESE Debuts "Halfway to Something" Irish Lager at Two Weeks Notice Brewing Co. Kick off St. Paddy’s Day weekend on Saturday, March 15, from 12pm to 10pm, at Two Weeks Notice Brewing Co.’s St. Patrick’s Day Party. This event promises double the excitement with all-day entertainment and the debut of a brand-new beer collaboration. Kick off St. Paddy’s Day weekend on Saturday, March 15, from 12pm to 10pm, at Two Weeks Notice Brewing Co.’s St. Patrick’s Day Party. This event promises double the excitement with all-day entertainment and the debut of a brand-new beer collaboration.

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Samantha DePergola Attends Museums Advocacy Day in Washington D.C. Samantha DePergola, ESE's Adult Education Coordinator, attended the American Alliance of Museums's has group outing to Congress in honor of Museums Advocacy Day, February 23-25. Samantha DePergola, ESE's Adult Education Coordinator, attended the American Alliance of Museums's has group outing to Congress in honor of Museums Advocacy Day, February 23-25.

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