IF YOU JOIN THE CLUB, WILL HUGHES HIT YOU OVER THE HEAD WITH IT?
By DAN VALENTI
PLANET VALENTI News and Commentary
[ED NOTE: The following column quotes several sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity. All cited fear of retribution as the reason. This makes its own comment. ]
(FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE, THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2015) — The “elimination” of long-time Pittsfield Boys and Girls Club program director Chris Keegan‘s position represents the latest in a long line of firings, terminations, and resignations of veteran Club personnel that began with the hiring of current executive director Terry Hughes on April 11, 2014.
The larger question with this house cleaning has to do with the integrity of the Club itself. The Club appears caught in the throes of a bloody civil war. The “blue” and the “grey” can be found among the Club’s board of directors. As listed on the Club website, they are William Cameron, Kristy Conyers, David Crane, Jeconiah Cronze, Ron DeAngelis, Warren Dews, Jim Ditello, Evan Dobelle (emeritus), John Donna, Clement Ferris, George Haddad, Tom Hamel, Shaun Heimann, Christopher Jacoby, John Kittredge, William Parsley III, Steve Ray, Deborah Renzi, Gary Scrafoni, Marilyn Sperling, Cynthia Spinola, and David Tierney III — A veritable Who’s Who of Pittsfield Suits, Players, and Wannabes bucking for entrance.
But who on the board stands with whom? Who are Hughes’ Heroes? Who are Keegan’s Komrades and Harte’s Heckraisers? Where are the battle lines drawn, and more importantly, why? Isn’t the board supposed to be unified and acting honestly for the common good? Sadly, the rift has spilled down to the current staff. There’s bad blood on the Club floors, none of which bodes well for the kids who go there for fun, education, and direction.
Board Meeting Today, the Perfect Time to Show Up and Let Your Feelings Known
TERRY HUGHES, Club executive director … Under fire for recent firings. (Photo by Stephanie Zollshan, The Berkshire Eagle)
The outcome of this battle will determine the future of this long-standing community institution. Today at 3:30 p.m. in the Lighthouse at the Club, the board of directors will meet to discuss the latest volleys. The meeting was not supposed to be publicized. You weren’t supposed to know about it, and if you’ll notice, not one of the board members as listed on the Club’s website have contact information. Guess it’s like city hall. The Club doesn’t want you messing with their business, even though it has to do with your kids. THE PLANET, of course, got wind ofthe meeting, The Berkshire Eagle took up our challenge, and now the world knows of the gathering.
Just a thought: It might represent the perfect opportunity for those who are upset at the Club’s recent doings to protest at the meeting. If enough concerned citizens show up, it will make a neat photo op at the least. THE PLANET will always want to see citizen involvement in community affairs. If you think Hughes is doing a great job, you should show up and support that, as well.
Origins of the Civil War
More than a year ago, someone on the board, heading a faction, decided that long-time Peter Bell had to go. In establishing a disturbing pattern of secrecy and furtiveness, that faction fought and won the prize. They made life miserable for Bell and forced him out of the job in December 2013. Dave Harte Jr. took over as interim director. Harte was let go earlier this year. Hughes said Harte resigned. Harte says he was fired.
The board never made clear why these actions were taken, leaving concerned citizens to speculate and fill in the blanks. Bell fell on his sword and didn’t speak publicly on why he was fired. He took that to his grave after he fell two-and-stories from a roof in the summer of his dismissal. To this day, Bell supporters say he would be alive today if not for the actions taken by the Club administrators. Harte’s father vented in a letter to The Eagle earlier this month.
The longer the board remains quiet on these matters, the more the community will guess. That’s when the wildfires start. None of this is good for the Club.
It’s not clear where individual board members stand in this battle, although it seems by recent actions that the “Grey” (the rebels looking to remake the Club in their own image) have the upper hand over the Blue (loyalists to the traditional Club operations). It’s also clear that Hughes has been hired as the man to implement the change — or act as hatchet man, depending on who’s speaking.
The question looms, though: Who on the board is behind Hughes? And why? What’s really going on?
Change Is Inevitable, but Secrecy is Not
Every organization needs periodic adjustment and change. No one argues that. But why the secrecy? Why the brusque dismissals, which appear to be done in a manner than inflicts the most pain. Why the effort that seems designed to stir up the most staff discontent?
For example, when Keegan reported for work this Monday, sources say, he had no inkling of what was to transpire. He was called to Hughes’ office. When he got there, he saw that board member Cameron was also present, which one source called “the kiss of death” — in other words, Cameron’s presence meant instant bad news for his presence at firings, dismissals, and tongue lashings.
Hughes handed Keegan a letter and told him to clean out his office. Bing, bang, boom, just like that. The letter, dated March 16, reads as follows:
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Dear Chris,
As you know, there have been a number of changes in our organization over the last year. I have had to make some very difficult but necessary decisions to realign the Club for improved efficiencies which [sic] focus on serving more members, more often.
This decision requires me to eliminate your position effective immediately. As a consequence, unfortunately, you are being laid off. I am handing you a paycheck for today, and two weeks’ pay as defined in our employee handbook.
[ED NOTE: THE NEXT PARAGRAPH IS BOILERPLATE DEALING WITH INSURANCE.]
I realize that this will be a difficult time for you; however, I urge you to direct your attention and energies to your future. I thank you for your contributions to the Club in the past and wish you well in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
Terence Hughes, Executive Director
——– 000 ——–
Hughes could not resist taking a public parting shot at Keegan, who ran the Club’s basketball program among his other duties.
“The basketball program will run next fall and winter with a number of employees chipping in and making it happen, and I expect it will run even better,” Hughes told Eagle reporter Phil Demers. He means “even better” than it did under Keegan, a man who has received historically high marks for his work. That’s when the ref steps in and issues Hughes a warning for hitting below the belt.
Looking for Logic? Don’t Look Here
The situation also defies logic. In the letter, Hughes informs Keegan that “This decision requires me to eliminate your position effective immediately.” However, if the position of program director has been eliminated, why did he promote Shannon McMahon from aquatics director to “program director,” as she is currently listed on the Club website. It didn’t take long.
The same day Hughes eliminates the position of program director, Hughes names a new “program director.” Confusing to say the least.
Is There a Board Within the Board?
Club board director John Donna has justified the moves on the basis of what Hughes calls “a re-organization plan over the last eighteen months.” The goal of this new plan, as Hughes writes in Keegan’s termination letter, is “to realign the Club for improved efficiencies.” What does that mean?
He told Demers that he backs Hughes’ decisions “to the extent that [they are] consistent with the board’s interests in serving more members, more often.” Are those decisions, then, “consistent” with what the board wants? Donna did not qualify his qualifier. Donna would not comment either to THE PLANET or to Demers on the personnel issues, with Demers yesterday and with THE PLANET on several occasions of our previous Club coverage.
Donna’s statement doesn’t sound like a rousing vote of confidence in Hughes, but he said Hughes “knows what he needs in terms of staff and programming. Positions may be eliminated here and there; that’s part of the process as he sees it.”
Notice the phrase “as he sees it.” It puts a sanitized distance between him and Hughes, but what is Donna’s role in all this? Did Hughes have to run these changes by him? Other board members complain about being left completely in the dark on the personnel decisions, and they speak of the existence of an internal faction within the board, that operates out of the overall board’s control. Is there a Board within the Board? We have a request into Donna to comment on this.
Cost Cuts or More Spending?
“Realign the Club for improved efficiencies” — That vague, obtuse phrase indicates the Club is trying to cut costs, a noble goal — but is it? If the Club has a master plan involving operations, programs, hours, finances, why hasn’t it shared them with the board members? Why hasn’t it communicated these to the citizens of Berkshire County (the county is included, since the Club will be rebranding itself “The Boys and Girls Club of Berkshire County”). Why has it gone about the staff dismissals in so terse and peremptory a manner?
Is Hughes trying to cut costs? Donna says he would like $50,000 trimmed from the Club’s expenses. Sources, however, paint a different picture. They say that Hughes, a Connecticut native, “spent a fortune” to remodel the cabin at Camp Russell, just to the right of the boathouse on the lake front. “He gutted it from the top down and got the best of everything for himself,” a source says. They also say he purchased personalized, embroidered, top-of-the-line Under Armor “vests and uniforms” for certain staffers when less expensive professional wear was available.
THE PLANET put in a request for Hughes to comment on this an other matters, and he wrote back, “My door is always open, happy to share the great things the Club is doing for children here.”
We bet he is happy to share all the good news, but that’s not what we asked him. He ignored all of our questions. When we replied, trying to pin him down to a specific time for an interview, he did not return our request. THE PLANET was shooting for 11 a.m. today. No dice. We never heard back. We have requested again his responses, in writing, making it clear that we want to present his “version of recent events.” If he supplies them, we shall share them here. We want to make it clear, that we are open to all sides of this issue and want to hear from all constituencies. THE PLANET can’t, however, force anyone to speak.
Hughes Has His Say in Press Release — Except that He Didn’t Release It … But We Will
THE PLANET has obtained the full text of a press release Hughes had written up following the firing of Keegan. He was all set to pull the trigger on the release, but then at the last second, he decided not to issue it. We have a copy. It reads as follows:
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BOYS & GIRLS CLUB PROMOTES FROM WITHIN
Youth Development Leaders Promoted to Key Leadership Positions within Organization
Pittsfield, March 16, 2015 – As part of a re-organization plan over the last eighteen months the Club has promoted Tina Wixsom to Associate Director and Shannon McMahon to Program Director.
In an effort to serve more kids more often, the Club has recently adopted Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Formula for Impact, where programs are geared towards producing outcomes in Academic Success, Character and Civic Responsibility, and Healthy Lifestyles. The Club has also been slowly introducing their recent name change, Boys & Girls Club of the Berkshires to better represent the community they serve.
“I am a product of a Boys Club system, like so many men here in the Pittsfield community.” said Terry Hughes the Club’s Executive Director. “Clubs back then were mostly a place for kids to play ball, and build relationships with their peers and the staff. That hasn’t changed except it’s with girls now of course, in fact we’ll make sure every member continues to have those same opportunities, but we need to do so much more here. We need to have an impact in our member’s lives all year long and through their High School years. Tina and Shannon have shown a great willingness to adopt many of the core principles which makes Clubs across the country a special place for so many young people beyond the courts. Their dedication and leadership within the staff is already paying major dividends and creating more opportunities for our members to succeed here.”
Tina has been employed with the Club since 1991 running programs both on Melville Street and at Camp Russell. Tina joined the staff on a full-time basis in 2007 after many years in the public school system and in the private sector. She earned her degree in Education from University Of Massachusetts at Amherst. Throughout her tenure on Melville St., Tina is most known for her ties in the community, and her relationship with young adults, guiding and mentoring these young people to reach their full potential. “Tina has had the courage to stand alone and step up in difficult times to make a difference. To watch the steady stream of High School members go in and out of her office and who look to her for guidance is extremely reassuring to me to recognize the deep impact the Club has in the city and with our older members who have a choice as to whether or not they attend the Club. She is well respected throughout the community and with a diverse group of kids. Her new role will enable her to continue to make a difference with our members, while also helping run the business aspect of the organization,” said Mr. Hughes. “My family has deep roots with the Boys & Girls Club. It’s just in my blood to care for kids. Every morning I wake up anxious to get to work. I am blessed to have the type of job where I am involved in the lives of so many children and I cherish every “a-ha” moment with them,” said Tina as she described her love of the Club.
The staff realignment has eliminated several positions while naming Shannon McMahon as the new Program Director. “We had several program directors whose sole role was to focus on one area and the participation numbers over twelve months and the current budget simply couldn’t support these positions long term, “ said Mr. Hughes. “Shannon has shown skills beyond her duties of running the aquatics program and I look for her continued development to help us grow and offer programs in different areas.” Ms. McMahon has worked for the Club since 2007 after graduating from Westfield State with a degree in Movement Science. “I grew up here; this was my second home as a child and I know it’s the same for many of the children we see on a daily basis. I’m eager to continue to offer them the same opportunities they are use to as well introduce some new and exciting programs,” said Shannon.
Mr. Hughes was hired in May of 2014 after a fifteen year career running Clubs in New York City, and CT. Over the past ten months he’s seen his share of staff changes and heard the communities concerns over them. “Change is difficult, and I have learned quickly the people of the Berkshires are extremely loyal to one another, it’s an enviable trait. But at the end of the day, it’s my job to create unique opportunity for kids within a defined budget which is mostly derived from the generosity of others. We need to be fiscally responsible. This realignment, along with the goal to identify and obtain new local and federal funding, and by spreading the word that any changes here reflect more opportunity for children will ultimately prevail over a few who are concerned over the transition. I would challenge anyone to come and meet me with me to outline how any recent changes have had a negative impact on the members who attend the Club. My door is always open, and I welcome folks who are willing to take the time to share their concerns with me while standing behind their comments. I love this community, everyone has been extremely kind to me and I firmly believe that the Club will continue to evolve into a true partner in the well-being of young people. We have some very exciting programs that are soon to be rolled out thanks to Tina and Shannon’s leadership in working with the staff to develop some new ideas; we brought in IS183 as an Art option for our kids during vacation weeks and on Fridays, we’re partnering with 4H with a peer mentoring and STEM program with four different components this spring and more throughout the year, we’ve hired a local recent college graduate to oversee a mentoring program, we’re bringing in the head men’s soccer coach at UCONN (Ray Reid Soccer School) to run a clinic on March 27th, and a soccer camp this summer, we’re hoping to become trained to utilize the ropes course more at camp, we’re working on a Jr. Police Academy with other local agencies that gives Middle School students a closer look at police work in a fun and natural setting during the summer, we’re offering a Summer Brain Gain program here this summer that will focus on reducing the summer learning loss for elementary students, in addition to have the Club open for certain hours for those who cannot attend Camp Russell, and member-run basketball leagues in the evenings….I urge folks to please attend our Camp Russell Expo to be held in our gym March 27th-28th.”
For more Club information please call 413-448-8258 or visit www.bgcberkshires.org .
——– 000 ——–
This ponderous letter contains some hidden gems. Our favorite is this: I would challenge anyone to come and meet me with me to outline how any recent changes have had a negative impact on the members who attend the Club. My door is always open, and I welcome folks who are willing to take the time to share their concerns with me while standing behind their comments.
We encourage anyone who takes issue with the recent decisions made at the Club to take up Hughes on his offer.
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“Here a little child I stand, / Heaving up my either hand; / Cold as paddocks though they be, / Here I lift them up to thee, / for a benison to fall / On our meat and on us all.” — Robert Herrick, “Another Grace for a Child,” (1648).
“OPEN THE WINDOW, AUNT MILLIE.”
LOVE TO ALL.
As bad and unjust as this is to a man who dedicated 33 years of work and loyalty to his job, and youth of Pittsfield, …..this, unfortunately, is the “New” American Standard in America. They get away with abusing good employees and forcing them out by the term “Reorganizing”. I saw the emergence of this “Standard” right after the economic fall in 2009. Now it’s like a freight train in Companies. Forcing long term employees, who worked their way up the ladder, finally earning top salaries, out..usually by those newer employees that band together. It’s a sickening cycle. Goes right along with corrupt practices across the board in our Country…..political, Government, Law enforcement…you name it. It is Ugly at best. We have become a “Broken” Society. My sympathy for Mr. Keegan….no notice.. 2 weeks pay.. Disgusting!!!
Someone asked the other day on the planet for names. Names of the suits. Dan, your article today starts off listing a few.
He also said follow the money was vague. What money? – was asked.
“Here’s another clue for you all. The walrus was Paul”
I wrote you a letter. Did you get it? It expresses my concerns over what is happening at the Club. I am one of those long-term employees who left on her own accord because of the changes at the Club and who has a 5 generation connection with the Club. My main point is that the Club has not made it clear what their mission is. Change is necessary. I understand that, but, when you cloud it in mystery, inhuman actions, and blind ambition, you lose the mission. Terry Hughes may have a very good mission, but it is getting lost in the way things are being done. There is an inhuman method involved. There is no regard for the history, dedication and love of the Club for the people effected. My grandchildren have the Club and Camp Russell in their blood now. They will always have lessons learned and memories of a joyful time. I wish that the “inner Board of Directors” would take some time to recognize the heritage of those who served the Club so well and took it to the point where this change is necessary. I don’t object to the idea of change, but I do object to the way things are being done. Again, as I’ve said in the past – it’s not so much what you do, but HOW you do it…
Appears to be a microcosm of city hall with Mr. Hughes being from Connecticut with a New York City management style.
I, like most Pittsfield boys spent many years at “the club”, proudly collecting the membership ” badges ‘ from midget to senior under the leadership and often discipline of Fred Fahey and Jim Mooney, who I believe were Pittsfield natives. A feminine aquatic director in those long past times would have been embarassed by the pool’s swim suit options (you old timers know what I mean). Wonder if Mr. Hughes ever experienced 10 cent movies on Friday,carrom tournaments,The famous Cavaliers, drum and bugle corps., regular Lighthouse dances and many, many more legendary activities, all managed by we poor, unenlighted, Pittsfield born and raised.
John Donna.. get your legalese head out of where the sun doesn’t shine.
As one of the “unnecessary” employees, I just have to make the statement that all of these actionsg make me sick to my stomach. “Our community”, /The Club, was doing so much better 5 years ago when the staff was a ” family”. We all worked together, our goals were the same. As of last May, it was turned into whose team you were going to play on, or you were out. Staff members and community members wrote letters of support on Dave Hartes behalf, to no avail. David Harte is a good man, and now we can add Chris Keegan to the list of “family members” let go. I personally do not agree with these new assignments of titles/positions, it is sickening to me.
How can you claim fiscal responsibility in one sentence, then in another talk about wanting to increase hours of operation during the summer? That costs money! What a ruse. There are some good people on the list of board of directors that you posted. It’s too bad they are letting their reputations within the City be sullied by other members of the board and their appointed leader.
Keep in mind, the entire staff (in past years but who knows what this guys agenda is today… or tomorrow) works out at Camp Russell. You are totally right, staffing both = $$$.
The two weeks pay. Is that just the two weeks they held back when Keegan was hired? So, in essence he gets nothing?
Monteroso got a much better deal. Walking away with $150,000.00 for only 3 months on the job.
Mr. Hughes seems to be quite the hatchet man. His two girlfriends had better tow the line if they know what’s good for them. Or else they’ll be axed also.
Oh if only a fly on the wall in the extravagant Camp Russell cottage could speak. What stories would it tell?
This organization is for “the children”.
who’s monteroso?
Speaking of Monteroso. The golden hanshake sweetheart deal giving him $150,000.00 of taxpayer money…..
Lets say each home in Pittsfield pay $6,000.00 per year in taxes on average. I don’t know what the actual figure is but let’s go with $6,000.00.
150,000.00 ÷ 6,000.00 = 25
That’s 25 homes in Pittsfield that paid their taxes and their money was just thrown away.
Or 1 home in Pittsfield paying their taxes for 25 years for nothing.
This figure doubles and triples when you do the same for the needless move to 100 North St.
Add in the $100,000.00 free gift to the methodone clinic and pretty soon we’re talking real money.
Also, you know that in Kentucky you can buy a really nice home for $100-150 thousand US dollars. So, another way of looking at it is, this mayor gave Mr. Monteroso a free house.
Not bad when you consider he only spent 3 months on the job.
And with allegations of sexual harrassment. But thats a private matter.
25 Pittsfield taxpayers bought Monteroso a new home.
Can you pay off your mortgage working your job for 3 months?
Now let’s extrapolate that reasoning out to the 200 million dollar new high school. Let’s just say the State will pay 65% of the estimated $120.8 million. That’s lets see….
$120.8 X .65 = $78.52 million USD.
Now take $200 million – 78.52 million leaving the taxpayers of Pittsfield on the hook for $121.48 million dollars.
$121.48 ÷ 6,000 = 20,250 approx households paying their taxes for this.
Or one household paying for this for 20,250 years.
Or one person paying $1 a year for 121 million years.
Add in the $23 million Pittsfield owes for past renovations, New school busses plus what we owe still the old ones and carry the 1.
Superintendant says 66% of the households sending their children to Pittsfield Public schools are in poverty status. So Pittsfield taxpayer of all walks of life must subsidize this tremendous expense whether they have children or not.
No vote will be taken by Pittsfield residents like there was in south county over only a $50 million dollar school project. The good people to our south had the good sense to vote it down. No, the taxpayers of Pittsfield will get this shoved down their throats by the political structure set up in Pittsfield.
Lest I remind you that this is an election year.
Monteroso is the guy who was hired as the director of Berkshire Works. He was put on layoff with pay after only a couple of months on the job after numerous complaints from employees of Berkshire Works. After about five of so months of being on paid leave he was let go because employees of Berkshire Works didn’t want him back and he left with a $150,000.00 compensation package. It was ridiculous for someone who was on the job for such a short time. He was originally hired supposedly after an exhaustive search led by Mayor Bianchi.
Thank you
His two girlfriends? Attacking my mother’s integrity is despicable. You are also proving your stupidity and lack of class. Grow up!
No that it matters, but does Mr. Keegan have a College degree?
And Chris is a marine. Once a marine, always a marine. Their motto, “the few, the proud, the brave” fits Chris to a T.
No such thing as a ex- marine
there’s also an article in the Eagle today that talks about the possible elimination by Mr. Hughes of the Recreational Therapy Program at Camp Russell. That would be an absolute travesty.
I too grew up at and with the Club. I agree that there are some fine people on that board, many who disagree with what’s going on. Now is their time to stand up for what’s right, publicly reveal the full story of what’s going on or sit by and let this internal blight ruin their reputations.
I don’t know if the board realizes how this has enraged the community. I agree that change is good and often needs to be done. But that doesn’t excuse the manner in which Club administration is treating good people not only the people they have let go but also current staffers, who go to work with knots in their stomach.
Mr Hughes has a management “style” that is “my way of the highway.” I have many friends associated with the Club either as staff or volunetters and the stories they are telling are frightening.
should be “volunteers” in last section
I dont claim to be an insider or anything like that. I grew up in the club, have worked at the club, and have worked in similar fields since and have maintained a lot of contact with those who work(ed) there and others with info. That said, in my opinion, it all lies in this statement:
“Tina and Shannon have shown a great willingness to adopt many of the core principles which makes Clubs across the country a special place for so many young people beyond the courts.”
The national boys club made many changes about 10 years ago to follow the money of united way and other funding sources. The united way was doing this community impact model that focused on results, data, and more than just recreation. The local united way slowly made the same change, with a lot of pushback from local agencies and donors.
Peter Bell refused to make these changes. He wanted the club to be what it always has been, with some improvements to facilities, etc. In fact I once actually heard him say that he didnt care what the national model was and he wasnt going to change things just to chase funding. He felt that the donors appreciated the club for what it is.
From what I have been told, this was the beginning of the end for Peter. Some of the board wanted change, to chase united way dollars, etc. This was also one of the driving forces in hiring Hughes. He wanted to follow more of the national model. Many of the staff who have left or been let go were resistant to these changes.
Im sure there are many other factors too. But from what ive seem, it began with that philosophical difference. No one likes change. Not too many people seem to like Hughes. But you have to respect the fact that if one of the driving forces behind the firings is resistance to change, what CEO, leader, manager, etc in any field or workplace would keep around staff who dont believe in where you are heading? Regardless where you stand on your feelngs for Hughes or what is going on at the club, you have to acknowledge that letting go of personnel, while upsetting, is a part of running a business, even nonprofits. The club is known for its sports programs. If a basketball player is too short to play center, the coach still puts him at guard even if the parents dont like it. Or if the game evolves to a certain style and the players dont fit, they are benched in favor of players who fit the style. If the player is our child, or our favorite superstar, we dont like it, but usually it has a way of working itself out. The player improves, or finds a new role, or a new team, or a new sport, etc… Hopefully the club regains its balance.
Its not a democracy, you cant just not like what they are doing and decide that they must change back. But like a democracy, you can have your voice heard, literally at the meeting and through your votes, in this case your donations.
Ive only met Hughes once. He was personable. But from what ive heard he is a bit of a bully or at least very rude to staff and members. Im not condoning any of that but I do think that people often need to take a step back and look at it from more than just their own perceptions. There are reasons, right or wrong, agreeable or not, possibly sneaky and/or contradictory, for why these changes are occuring. But just because Keegan is your friend or you dont like what youve heard doesnt make this the scandal of the century.
With Mr. Hughes renovating what appears to be his personal cabin at Camp Russell, he appears to to be emulating the glided and national model of the club’s board of director emeritus, the impeachable Evan Dobelle. Quite an outstanding role model, be it Hawaii or Westfield.Follow the money and salaries.
Stepping back; perception is reality.
That saying is such crap. Its just as bad as any other cop-out. Not defending the person, or the obvious bad choices, but the writing is on the wall that the club is changing from the club we had, like it or not, and if you are a staff member, get on board or go.
Why the element of surprise and lack of respect toward a 33 year employee? Dirty tactics, and disregard for a man’s livlihood. Then promote…the very next day with his title. I don’t know anyone at the Boys/Girl’s Club, but if it smells like fish….Guess What?
Look, i dont think firing keegan makes the club better by any means. And like i said, ive heard all about hughes’ attitude and the so called dirty tactics. But theres always three sides to a story, yours mine and the truth. So do i agree with the methods, at least what we have heard about the methods? Nope. But the reasons are justifiable. Maybe keegan had no warnings. Maybe he did. Ive been a manager before. If my employees werent coming around after 11 months, they should be fired, but there would have been discussions leading up to it. Did that happen here? We dont know. I have no problem with the replacement the very next day, except that the stated reason was to eliminate the position. Maybe its more that the job description itself changed? I dunno, not a fan of that either, but really, with how things had been going there, keegan and everyone else should be prepared and not surprised.
Mr Keegan in not my friend. Only no him from my 2 kids playing organized ball at club. That both had great experiences and league’s were well run.
My kids played basketball at the club and went to Camp Russell. I think the board chose Mr. Hughes to make changes. It is obvious no one likes changes. Especially when someone has been around for a long time.
I think all the nay sayers should give this guy a chance. Honestly I agree it seems like he is stream lining positions instead of having program directors for every sort there is only one.
You all like to talk about the GOB …please the boys club had there on set of GOB. why don’t you look at the last names of the kids who win youth of the year
My brother was a youth of the year and we certainly dont get any special treatment
Anne White,
Give this guy a chance?
They have given him a chance. Everything Terry is saying is a complete lie. To say that my father only ran the basketball program is bullshit. Yeah my last name is KEEGAN. Also, the past youth of the years, as you stated, would be my brother Michael KEEGAN. He won that award because he was top of his graduating class, vice president of the senior leaders, involved in sports, club employee, and also donated countless hours of volunteering for the Club. so needless to say it has nothing to do with his last name. You’re look stupid and arrogant.
I believe the entire spotlight is on the “Terry Show” now, so we have no choice other than to give this guy a chance. He made sure of that. That being said, I believe you tried to take a subtle jab at my last name implying that I did not deserve the award. Yes, my last name is Keegan. I am proud beyond words of that fact. I did win the award in 2010, and that was voted upon by the staff. My father is a very honorable man, so he abstained from participating in the vote. That award was one of the proudest moments of my life, and I worked really hard in all aspects of life to achieve it. Seeing people like you who don’t even know me discredit my accomplishments is heart-breaking. I have done nothing but good for that organization as a student, a player, an employee, and a (former) donor.
The overarching theme of Dan Valenti’s column and readers’ responses is that it is all about MONEY.
Sort of like what former GE CEO Jack Welch did to Pittsfield.
The irony is that in a local economic system, the people are the biggest economic resource, while money is secondary.
That is why Pittsfield always loses in the long run. Pittsfield politics places money ahead of its people.
Again, my point is not what is changing at the Club, it is how it is being done.
The Board and Mr. Hughes missed a great opportunity to make all of this a very positive move for the future. If, maybe last fall, they had been up front about what the Club was to become and the kinds of things that could happen, all of this would be viewed in a more positive way.
The way that all of this has happened is what disturbs me the most, both from Mr. Hughes and from the evidently “split” Board. It has been handled badly for those staff who have been railroaded out by Terry and his “my way or the highway” approach. People go their whole careers in fear of their position being eliminated or not doing their job well enough to keep it. After about ten years in a company, staff tend to feel they’re doing their jobs fairly well and that their ideas and suggestions will be listened to.
I left the Club willingly – to retire quite a few years before I wanted to, mainly because I was noticing the handwriting on the wall and did not personally agree with Terry’s management style .I am not some “coddled” employee who only worked at the Club. I was in the business world for almost 30 years and have never experienced a situation where staff was treated so poorly callous and secretive. And, like many of the others who have left or been asked to leave, there were hundreds of hours outside of regular hours where we stayed to get extra work done or volunteer at Club events.
The “door” may always be open for you to go in, but good luck getting back out.
Evan Dobelle…. Yes, he should be on the Board of Directors. Isn’t that always the way, while hard working, very well respected people lose their livlihoods…. they, who helped build the bricks of the institution. What the hell have we become?
One of the board members facebook posts regarding the current fiasco. It sounds like he’s happy the way things are going.
Thomas J Hamel In my opinion – the alumni (and donors) should “research the “new club”” – as a number of changes where requested by and/or received their genesis from some of the 7 no longer there.
The Club – through the board’s, the administration’s and staff’s unified efforts- continues every day to serve the mission and ideals established by Zenas Crane.
March 2 at 7:49am · Like
My relative won the award also. Was an educator and Administrator for thirty some years. Captained his college baseball and basketball teams, was a Camp Councilor and worked at the Boys Club in high school. He wasn’t connected Anne.
Does anyone know why this Shannon McMahon was let go from the St. Josephs Swim Coach? Was it for “cause?” the club is going to fall.
Two weeks severance pay?
Oh please, look into how many Barbarotta’s have benefitted from being related to the “newly appointed” Assistant Director. Red Sox tickets, etc… It is all about who you know, who you are related to, and how far you want to go, doesn’t matter who gets hurt on the way, its all about the money. Zenas Crane and other founding fathers are beyond disbelief that the organization they wanted to simply benefit local children, has turned into this “how can I benefit the most”.
Seriously Donna? Not only did that newly appointed assistant direct put her time and hard work into making the Club a better place for kids, the Barbarottas that you speak of give back to kids with our Bianchi/Barbarotta foundation. Your comment proves your stupidity and lack of class.
Donna, what a cowardly thing to do. To call my family out and not attach your name? What a cheap shot. Regardless of what is happening at the club my family selflessly has donated so much time and money, NEVER looking for anything in return. My sister Tina has never done anything to anyone, only things for people. I challenge you to find a more selfless, caring person. She does her job, always has, with kids best interest at heart. Struggle all you need to with the changes, thats your right. Taking cheap shots at my family is not your right!
Chris is correct. His sister Tina is beyond reproach and is one of the good people and probably hanging in at the Club by her finger nails. Like a lot of families in Pittsfield, the Barbarotta’s have donated time and money to the Club. What is concerning is that unlike the Barbarotta family, a lot of these families and donors have been alienated from the Club by Mr. Hughes and the board of directors. If you alienate your long time supporters, who will you have left?
Tina has always been a Club person. She works hard and does what she does very well. I have no problem with her or Shannon McMahon getting rewarded with promotions – I only worry that they are blindly following Mr. Hughes and not standing up for themselves. It seems like they are being given 20 things to do in the time that it would take to do 10 of them. It’s great to challenge staff, but you set them up for failure or half done tasks if you give them too much to do.
Donna,
I believe your accusation borders on slander and I will be contacting a lawyer to see if we have legal recourse against you. You crossed the line when you accuse my family of benefitting through my wife’s position.
Mr. Valenti, if we find that this is an actionable offense, I expect that you will do the right thing and provide any and all information necessary to identify this person.
Good for you, Rick.
RICHARD
DONNA’s comments, while they may be disturbing, do not rise to the level of libel. Not even close. DONNA has expressed an opinion, which has been forcefully countered by contradicting posts. THE PLANET allows anonymous posts to encourage a full range of views in the public “marketplace of ideas.” That is the only way to ensure people can post without fear of retribution, which is often how it works in the city. Of course, we could encourage people to post as you did, under your real name. In a perfect world, that is what we would get. This is not a perfect world. A society in such an imperfect place can only aspire to noble goals such as freedom of expression. THE PLANET does its best to keep the discussions here on point, reasonable, and civil. In a community discussion such as the one so many are engaged in on the Club right now, emotions are running high. People need a certain amount of leeway in venting. This serves as an “escape valve” in keeping the public peace. Those who post to the website are assured of identity protection. We would not compromise that in this case. We thank you for sharing your concerns, and we shall continue our best to address yours and the many that come our way.
My name is Dale Phelps, Jr. I grew up in Pittsfield, and for this response, you may as well consider me Dale Barbarotta. My mother is a Barbarotta. And she’s a great woman who would do anything for anyone. And she’s probably done selfless acts for people you know. Like all of the Barbarotta women. Like all of the Barbarottas. Like Tina (Barbarotta) Wixsom. Unlike Tina, my mother does not work at the Club any more (but you probably know that.) You’ll probably say it’s the Barbarotta name as to why my mother no longer works at the Club too, right?
Well, like a lot of people, we just have no idea until we walk in someone’s shoes.
Donna (who’s true identity remains unknown to me), I’ve looked into it. ALL THE BARBAROTTAS have benefited from being related to the newly appointed Associate Director, Tina Wixsom. As a matter of fact, she’s one of the best women I have ever had the privilege of knowing–related or not. She is a woman who would do anything to help the youth at the club–you cannot find a better person.
My favorite part about reading these posts written by anonymous people is that everyone is so quick to have their anonymous voice heard, but you either: A. Don’t verify facts. B. Make things up or C. Enjoy drama.
If you think the Barbarotta name is the reason for Tina’s promotion, you enjoy drama, you make things up, and you don’t verify the facts.
I am not upset with your assumptions though.
If you look into it, to be associated with the name “Barbarotta” is certainly not a bad thing. To be associated with the Barbarotta Family is to be associated with a legacy of amazing people, a love for family, and a love for kids. And within that family, if you look into it, you’ll find generations of former Club Members, Youth of the Year, Leaders’ Club Members, educators, coaches, and many, many people who help make Pittsfield a better place.
Back to how many Barbarotta’s benefitted from being related to the new Associate Director (I hope you see the exceptional humor in your statement by now), we have ALL benefited from being related to such a kind, caring, and compassionate person. And there’s a good chance that many people you know have benefited from knowing her as well. She has earned every opportunity and promotion. She has nothing to hide, and certainly nothing to prove to all of the people who simply want to complain about the changes at the Club.
Tina Wixsom opens her doors year after year as a host for baseball and softball players from across the country, or wayward Club kids. She and her husband took a teenager into their home knowing he had serious personal issues to try to get him on a good path. They fed him, clothed him, and even bought him a cell phone (out of their pockets). Donna (if your name really is Donna), if you didn’t understand the kind of caring person you’re trying to throw under the bus, I hope it comes to you at some point.
There’s no doubt that most of the people who’ve been let go are great people too. I do not question that. But the reality is change is difficult. It’s not easy, and it can be painful. Tough decisions must be made and not everyone will be happy. There is a major change in culture at the club, and there will be the people who embrace the vision and the mission and those who do not. I do not know all the circumstances that have led to terminations, but I know there’s a capable board of directors whose sole purpose is to move the Club in the best possible direction. And the people who don’t embrace the change and the vision simply choose their own destiny–like it or not.
So, if you look into the Barbarotta name, you’ll find something. You’ll find a family who cares. You’ll find a family who gives back to Pittsfield. You’ll find a family bond so much stronger than a silly social media thread where anonymous people leave angry messages, make untrue statements, and attack people behind a guise.
And if you look into it, you’ll find an entire Barbarotta family and a community of children and friends who have all benefited from being related to the new Assistant Director at the Club.
Congratulations on your promotion, Aunt T! The people who matter most are proud and we understand the heart and love that you put into your position.
Dale Phelps, JR
Thank you, DALe, and all who spoke out on behalf of Tina Wixsom, whose contributions to the CLub have been both a community asset and treasure.
They probably thought Chris was getting bored.
Not the reason to let someone go. Especially a United States Marine.
So does Mr Hughes have an explanation for the expenditures on the Camp Russell digs? Is this a place the public can see or use themselves? Or is this newly remodeled hideaway for special interests only?
The public? Its not a governmental agency. If donor money was used, then i can see your point and the donors can see it
I think people missed what Tim was trying to say. It all started with the United Way. Why is this company allowed to go into people’s businesses and extort money? It all seems illegal to me and should be stopped. I enjoyed bringing my kids to the club and remember all the director’s and employees fondly. This is a sad dark chapter that is happening. Life is all about change but there are positive ways to promote change and negative ways and I believe the current board and leader have chosen the wrong path. I hope all employees who have lost their jobs and careers know the positive impact they have had on the children of Pittsfield! Good Luck
Well i wasnt saying the united way is the problem, just a big reason why the clubs around the country are changing. Call it extortion if you want, but you dont have to donate to the united way. I dont. I donate my time and money direct to the agencies that i choose. And i dont feel guilty about it at all… Or extorted by the united way or by my places of employment.
Thank you, Shirley.
Hey is Gary Scarfoni, member of the board, the $500,000.00 City Hall move recipient? Maybe he could donate a few “G’s” for the former workers!
Wrong Scarafoni.
it seems to me from what im hearing and reading it seems that if you don t agree or kiss the new directors butt you are history i grew up at the boy s club and there are not to many names i recognize on the board of directors so it s not too late for you people strap on a set of balls admit you made a mistake send mr hiughes packing because you don t the boys and girls club will never be the same
Nice show tonight on PV-TV. Folks you should check out DV’s comments on the television. PCTV website will have times for hte replay of the show, tomorrow four times it will be shown. Also anytime via to the PCTV website. DV as usual reveals the truth about the dirty business going down at the ailing failing Mr. Hughes Private Club. formerly known as the Pittsfield B&G Club
My kids played for Chris’ basketball leagues,he a great guy,and deserves so much better than this.Chris coached me in high school and I’ll always be loyal to him, the club will NEVER be the same.my youngest won’t be there I will say that.
I have known of the Barbarotta family all my life, all great kids growing up. I remember as a kid, one of my siblings lost my Dads money from his paycheck from G E, it was about 80 bucks if I recall, a lot of money back then. One of the Barbarotta girls found it and got it back to family.
Whats sad is that now we have a fued. The Keegans vs the Barbarottas, two competing visions for the Clulb, a board of directors that is warring with itself, and an exec director who is from the bully style of management. I am a long-time supporter and donor of the Club. No more. Not until the board comes clean.
I would urge all of my Pittsfield friends and neighbors to withhold all donations of time and money until the board admits its mistake with the executive director.
Why wouldn’t anyones fight not be with the Board of Directors?!?! They are the ones who have created this whole mess.
I do not think that is the case. Tina has helped me tremendously throughout my life growing up at the Club, and she is always been a friendly face to see. Her children were my counselors when I was a camper at Camp Russell. When i was I counselor, I worked right alongside her nieces and nephews. If there is bad blood, then I know nothing of the sort. The Barbarottas I know definitely did not want to see my father fired; they’re club kids at heart. I think the real problem lies with this insecure director. Terry fired Dave Harte and my father, coincidentally the two most respected people in that building. Terry wants to run his show… bottom line. In my opinion, this “vision” is completely exaggerated. I welcome anyone to go out to Camp Russell this year (assuming numbers allow it to exist), and go see all of this wonderful change in action. This is just a cowardly man afraid of anyone who will second-guess his opinions.
I do agree however that anyone who donates to the Club should stop by and see their money being put to work. Refreshments in the Hughes Estate near Richmond Pond will be on house!
Michael …that is usually how the bully rolls. He doesn’t want any competition, or anyone more competent than himself around. This is surely the absolute wrong way to Reorganize..and un just to some very, good people.
Thank you Michael! We wish only the best for the Keegan family and there is no war. We wouldn’t let some unintelligent coward such as Donna have that power.
At Shirl, you said you had kids at the club? Did you have a kid, we used to call him Co Co?
Regarding the Youth of the Year… I sat through 9 of the selection meetings for this reward and there was NEVER a connection made with family that was on staff. I think it has been a great tribute to staff who parented those kids who got it. It proves that they passed on their family values and deep felt concern to their kids and the Club members reaped the benefits. This history is definitely not nepotism. Those kids earned their accolades. Yes, there was someone in my family who got the reward, but, I’ll tell you, she worked so hard for that honor, never expecting to get it. The Club is in our family blood, as it is with so many staff folks. It will be hard to replace that staff with other folks who have that kind of dedication.
That’s because these people built the bricks and mortar. You cannot replace or duplicate that. Change will come …. the Institution will crumble without the walls.
Thanks Linda,
I couldn’t agree more.
I went to the “meeting” with the board of directors and Terry Hughes present yesterday, and basically all they did was give 2 minutes to anyone who wanted to speak. I did say a few things in support of Chris Keegan, but should have pointed out that when I was a kid going to the boy’s club, the first person I saw upon entering the building was Mr. Mooney. Mr. Hughes has been there for almost a year now, and I personally have never had any sort of interaction with him until yesterday (even then, he never spoke to me). How can you lead any organization without actually being accessible to the people who SUPPORT the organization. I feel that there is a “Hatfield and McCoy” dynamic going on at the club now and the reason Mr. Hughes terminated Chris was because he didn’t kiss his butt. We all know that in every workplace not everyone is going to get along all of the time, but we sometimes need to put our personal differences aside for the good of the cause, which in this case, is the kids. I also think that if the club keeps going in the current direction that they are, the once great basketball program will wind up like the hockey program (no house league, just travel) only accommodating the families who can afford to pay thousands of dollars to keep their kids in said program. It is a dark time in club history, but hopefully some changes will be made to help right this sinking ship.
All I can say is this.. I have seen first hand this man in charge dismiss things a director should be very concerned with.. He avoids contact with anyone who could possibly question his decisions and authority. There are so many questions about what’s happening.. Why it’s happening.. Plain and simple.. Mr Hughes and the board of directors.. If there is nothing to hide.. Then why are you hiding behind closed doors. I suggest the club and its director and board of directors hold a meeting.. Open to the public.. With a chance to in orderly fashion ask the questions we all want answers to. If there is nothing to hide than what’s the problem? Bring your treasurers report.. Bring your financial records to back up what your saying.. You have nothing to hide after all right?
The controversy would be eliminated, or at least reduced, if Hughes could carefully describe the objectives of the club. People could then see how many people are needed and then what funds are available to achieve them. I was the chair of a local (Bloomington) charity and we had to fire a long time employee and outsource her work. It was not easy and we (probably) could have afforded to keep her but the money was better spent on other purposes.We had full disclosure of the money and people knew the objectives. It also helped that we collected comparative information from other charities.
I spent many hours at the Boys Club of Pittsfield and went to Camp Russell a few times. I hope that Hughes is more open and develops more trust with the community. He is not doing a great job of this at the momemt.
“We had full disclosure.”
That’s the difference here, CT. There has been no disclosure. The terminations may be justified by the objectives, but the community has no way of judging that, since the Hughes has not conveyed the strategic objectives. Neither has the board. Moreover, it seems that the terminations were done to instill fear in the remaining staff.
I will try to keep this as short as possible, but I will also be Very Clear in my feelings and Voice to be heard!
Donna, whomever you are, how Dare you! Coming from a Barbarotta that worked at the Boys & Girls Club for 10+ years, grew up there, devoted my heart and soul yet still wasn’t “handed Youth of the Year” because oh, THATS NOT HOW IT WORKS! My entire Family has played their roles and dedicated so much time and effort to our Youth, serious Shame on You for trying to slander our name and make that assumption. We work HARD and are rewarded the same as anyone else that does so. As for attempting to bad mouth my Aunt, Tina Wixsom, shame on you Twice! I don’t need to justify all she has done, and will continue to do both in and out of that building. Her promotion was more than Deserving, and to say otherwise is blasphemy. That brings me to Foxy, shame on You also! To say there is now a feud between 2 very strong and supportive families is just asking for it. I can speak for myself, and my family when I say that we feel for Chris and his family. There has never been, nor will there be any “bad blood” between us, especially not because of your very petty, wrong accusations. I encourage you, Donna, to go and donate to our Family Foundation that is growing by the minute, that is built for our Youth. To say our families haven’t given all they can to the Club is a flat out lie. I’m outraged that someone so insecure to not even state their name would think to point a finger at even one Barbarotta, but all of us? Good Luck. The very best of wishes to the Keegan Family. And Michael, Linda, I personally thank you for such kind words about my aunt Tina, who is more than deserving of all good things that come her way!! If you don’t have Facts, your better off keeping your opinion to yourself.
Terry Hughes just fired from club