An OceanState Job Lot is expected to move into the former Walmart store along with two other tenants. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels)
Two New Stores To Occupy FormerWal-MartBuilding
Ocean State Job Lot, a leading closeout retailer with 109 stores in New England and New York, has signed a purchase and sales agreement to acquire the former Wal-mart building on the Curran Highway in North Adams. Company officials said they plan to hire 30-40 employees for the new store. Ocean State Job Lot also announced that they intend to sublease 27,000 square feet of the former Wal-Mart building to Tractor Supply Company. All this is pending the approval of North Adams Planning Board. If all goes according to plan, all this could happen by the fall of this year. Job Lot has 45 stores in Massachusetts but none nearby while Tractor Supply Company has a store in Pittsfield and Bennington VT. North Adams Mayor Richard Alcombright said he is looking forward to welcoming Ocean State Job Lot and Tractor Supply to the city.
The Pittsfield Fire Department raised a flag on North Street for the motorcade to drive under. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
Hundreds Line Route Of Travel For Fallen Dalton Soldier
Area residents from Lee to Pittsfield lined the streets yesterday to honor fallen Army Specialist Mitchell Daehling, as a procession carried his body back to Berkshire County. The 24-year-old Wahconah High School graduate was one of four soldiers who were killed on May 14 in Afghanistan. Daehling's body was transported from Barnes Air National Guard Airport yesterday, escorted by Patriot Guard Riders, Dalton Police and state police, along with individual town police, to the Dery Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Hundreds of people lined North Street in Pittsfield yesterday, including those from local businesses, schools and organizations. The Pittsfield Fire Department raised a flag near the intersection of Bradford and North Streets for the motorcade to cross under as it made its way to the funeral home.
James Basiliere, center, explains the plans for his 18-hole golf course at Wednesday's permit hearing. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels)
Earth Removal Permit Approved for Clarksburg Golf Course
The Clarksburg Selectmen on Wednesday night approved a two-year permit — with a long list of conditions — for the removal of thousands of truckloads of dirt from the North Adams Country Club.
The club in 2011 intends to expand the nine-hole course into 18 holes and to rebuild the clubhouse over the next several years and to expand the course a along River Road south toward the Cross Road bridge.
More than 30 abuttors and interested community members attended the public hearing at the Senior Center, peppering Basiliere and his designer with questions on the removal of earth and concerns over the project being left unfinished. Several people questioned why material was going out but nothing coming in.
(Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/Joe Durwin)
StamfordVt Elementary Students Make Suggestions To N.A. Mayor
Nine 7th and 8th grade students from Stamford Elementary School met with Mayor Richard Alcombright this week with some suggestions for the location of a skate park in North Adams. IBerkshires.com reports that the students came up with three locations; Noel Field, Holden Street and Houghton (hoe-ton) Streets. The students also discussed safety, location and cost. After the presentation, two-thirds of the class voted that it liked the Houghton Street Park as the best spot. Mayor Alcombright told the students he’s expecting the project to be completed in three years in different phases. The City of Pittsfield already has a skate park across the street from Pittsfield High School on East Street….and that park is always packed with kids of all ages.
Pittsfield PD Arrest Second Suspect In Convenience Store Armed Robbery
Pittsfield police have arrested a second suspect they believe was involved in Sunday evening’s armed robbery of the Berkshire Pipe and Tobacco store on Tyler Street.
On Tuesday, 29-year-old Brian Boudreau of Pittsfield, was arrested and arraigned yesterday in Central Berkshire District Court, pleading not guilty to armed robbery charges. He was ordered held at the Berkshire House of Correction on $10,000 cash bail. 30-year-old Mark Rathbun, also of Pittsfield, was arrested was arrested shortly after the Sunday evening hold up, arraigned in court on Monday and was also ordered held on $10,000 cash bail. Both defendants are due back in court next month. Rathbun and Boudreau allegedly robbed Berkshire Pipe and Tobacco store on Tyler Street at knifepoint Sunday evening around 7pm.
Pre-Noon Drinks Ok For Lenox Restaurants And Cafes
The Lenox Select Board has approved a 10am time when restaurants and cafes in town can begin serving alcoholic beverages on Sundays. This new rule applies to all 39 establishments in Lenox holding full liquor licenses. Until now, the old start time was 12 noon on Sunday. Package stores in Lenox are not affected by the new rule and they must still begin Sunday sales at noon.
Funeral For Dalton Soldier Killed In Afghanistan Today.
The funeral for 24-year-old U.S. Army Specialist Mitchell Daehling, (Deal-Ling) will take place today at 12 noon at St. Agnes Church in Dalton. The Dery Funeral Home said yesterday that the hearse is planning to leave the funeral home around 11:30 this morning with an escort. The route of travel will be down North Street to Park Square, down East Street past Pittsfield High school, continue on East Street onto Merrill Road. The funeral procession will then take a left onto Plastics Avenue past General Dynamics and Sabic Plastics where people are expected to line the street. The procession will then take a right onto Dalton Avenue and proceed to St. Agnes Church.
Administrator: Marathon Victims Procrastinating
BOSTON (AP) — The administrator of the Boston Marathon victims' compensation fund says so far just five people have filed applications for a portion of the $30 million the One Fund has already collected.
Kenneth Feinberg tells the Boston Herald the families of the four people killed in the April 15 bombings and the ensuing manhunt, as well as the more than 260 who suffered physical injuries, have until June 15 to complete their applications. He says if they miss that deadline, they are out of luck.
Feinberg says he saw similar procrastination while serving as special master of the 9/11 Victims' Compensation Fund.
Feinberg has said that the families of those killed as well as victims who lost two limbs are likely to get about $1 million each.
Mass. Senate To Begin Debating State Budget Plan
BOSTON (AP) — The Massachusetts Senate is scheduled to begin debating hundreds of proposed amendments to its $34 billion state budget proposal.
Senators will begin making their way through 725 proposed changes to the spending plan outlined by the Senate Ways and Means Committee last week.
The Senate budget for the fiscal year starting July 1 calls for an increase of $1.4 billion, or about 4.4 percent, over the current year.
That includes new spending on housing, education, mental health and veteran services.
The Senate plan and a budget passed by the House last month both include $500 million in new revenue, including hikes in gasoline and cigarette taxes.
University of Massachusetts officials say the Senate budget does not include enough funding to allow the school to freeze tuition and fees as it hopes to do.
Mass. Bill Would Try 17-Year-Olds As Juveniles
BOSTON (AP) — Lawmakers are considering a significant change in how the state's court system handles teenage offenders.
A bill expected to be debated in the House on Wednesday would treat 17-year-olds accused of most crimes as juveniles, meaning their cases would automatically go to juvenile court instead of adult court.
The group Citizens for Juvenile Justice, which supports the bill, says Massachusetts is one of only 11 states in which 17-year-olds are prosecuted as adults. In most states, adult court jurisdiction begins at age 18.
Judges could still impose adult sentences on 17-year-olds convicted of very serious crimes, and all murder cases would still be tried in adult court. Backers of the legislation say passage would help Massachusetts comply with a federal law that seeks to reduce prison rapes by requiring that younger inmates be separated from adults.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Barely 6 percent of the town's voters attended Tuesday's annual town meeting, passing most of the articles with little or no discussion. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Stephen Dravis)
Voter Turnout In Williamstown Very Poor
Williamstown voters took up a 38-article warrant at their annual town meeting at Mt. Greylock High school last night and approved the fiscal 2014 budget of $6.7 million dollars….up about 2.4 percent over this year. Most of the 38 articles on the annual town meeting warrant passed with little to no comment in a meeting that took just about 1 hour, 45 minutes. Voters rejected a plan that would have appropriated $365,000 in town funds to help a residents cooperative buy the Spruces Mobile Home Park. The annual town meeting was attended by 283 of the town's 4,600 registered voters, or about 6 percent. More than double that amount had attended last month's town meeting.
N.A. Finance Committee Continues Review Of 2014 Budget Proposal Today
The North Adams Finance Committee began its review of the city's fiscal 2014 budget Monday and will continue with a line- by-line review of Mayor Alcombright’s proposed budget today. Monday, the Finance Committee took a close look at the Department of Public Services and spending at City Hall. Mayor Richard Alcombright’s $36.6 million dollar budget has to pass muster with the Finance Committee before it goes before the City Council for approval. Mayor Alcombright said the proposed budget is about $333,000 dollars over the 2013 budget. After tonight’s budget hearing, the next one will take place on Tuesday, May 28th at 5:30 at City Hall.
CountyUnemployment Unchanged In April
The Berkshire County unemployment rate for Aprilis exactly the same as it was in March. The county's jobless rate remained at 7.2 percent last month, according to figures released on Tuesday by the state Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, although there were fluctuations in the rates for the county's three labor market areas.
The figures for the county's total labor force remained unchanged between March and April.The local rate is still higher than the state unemployment rate, which fell from 6.8 percent in March to 6.3 percent in April . The national unemployment rate is 7.5 percent.
Natural Gas Pipeline From North Adams to Bennington, Vt., Proposed
An Ohio developer is proposing extending a natural gas line from North Adams to Bennington, Vt., a town currently without the low-cost fuel.
David Eigel, president of DEnergy Ltd., in Canton, Ohio says bringing natural gas service to Bennington would require an 18-mile pipeline, a distribution center in the Vermont town, and cost somewhere between $20 million and $25 million. The planning, permitting and construction would take about two years.
An ad hoc committee of officials and business leaders has been formed to gauge interest. Permitting would also be required.
Southern Berkshires Get Tornado Warnings
Residents in the southern Berkshires were given two tornado warnings by the National Weather Service in Albany yesterday afternoon. The first one was issued just before 5pm when a trained Skywarn member of the National Weather Service, spotted what is called a “wall cloud” near Copake, NY. Such a cloud has the potential to form a tornado funnel but that never happened. The second tornado warning was issued a short time later because the “potential” for a tornado existed as the same, intense thunderstorm moved into Litchfield County Connecticut….but once again, a tornado never formed. Gusty winds associated with the thunderstorms knocked down power lines and tree branches. More strong thunderstorms are expected later today, tonight and tomorrow.
Republican Senate CandidateGomez addressing dozens of supporters at Lenco in Pittsfield. (Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com)Andy McKeever)
Republican Senate Candidate In Pittsfield
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Gabriel Gomez was in Pittsfield yesterday, talking to a rally of republican faithful at Lenco Industries on Industrial Drive. Gomez arrived about 45 minutes late but soon had those gathered inside Lenco applauding and cheering. Gomez brought up many issues he differed with his Democratic challenger, Congressman Edward Markey. Gomez said one of the main differences between him and Congressman Markey, is that Markey will put party and politics above everything else. Gomez said he will always put the people ahead of party and politics. The statewide election will be held on June 25, leaving the campaigns just short of five weeks to rally their respective supporters.
Body Of Dalton Soldier Killed In Afghanistan Arriving Home Today
The body of 24-year-old U.S. Army Specialist Mitchell Daehling, is scheduled to arrive home today. The body of the Dalton soldier who was killed in Afghanistan on May 14, will be arriving at Barnes Air National Guard Airport in Westfield this morning then be transported to Dery Funeral Home in Pittsfield. Pittsfield Director of Veterans Services, Rosanne Frieri, said that the hearse is expected to travel down North Street in Pittsfield on its way to the Dery Funeral Home between 10:30 and 11am. Kathy Mickle, of the “Here At Home Committee”, is encouraging employers to allow their workers to be on North Street to greet the procession. American flags are encouraged. The funeral will take place tomorrow at noon at St. Agnes Church in Dalton. Dalton residents and members of the “Here at Home Committee” are expected to line the streets.
Tea Party Activists Plan IRS Protest In Boston
BOSTON (AP) — Tea Party activists are planning to hold a demonstration in downtown Boston to protest the Internal Revenue Service for improperly targeting conservative groups seeking tax-exempt status. The Greater Boston Tea Party said they plan hold the protest at noon on Tuesday outside the JFK Federal Office Building near Boston City Hall plaza, which includes IRS offices.
Activists say they want to protest the unconstitutional practices of the IRS in scrutinizing conservative and tea party organizations.
The extra attention by the IRS is giving the tea party increased visibility and helping bolster their fight against what they describe as big government.
Tea party activists are hoping the controversy helps pump new energy into the movement. They say no department of the federal government has the right to intimidate the free speech of political activists.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Finance Committee Chairman Alan Marden takes a question at Monday's Finance Committee meeting. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels)
N.A. Finance Committee Begins Review Of 2014 Budget Proposal
The North Adams Finance Committee began its review of the city's fiscal 2014 budget last night, reviewing line items in the Department of Public Services and City Hall. IBerkshires.com reports the the preliminary budget presented at last week's City Council meeting, is $36.6 million dollars….up about $333,000 over this year. Mayor Richard Alcombright told the Finance Committee last night that the budget is increased by less than one percent. The mayor said the budget includes a reduction in payroll of 5 1/2 positions, reductions in capital spending, decreases in health insurance and departmental consolidation for better efficiencies. It does, however, include increases in pensions, veterans benefits, public safety and the Hoosac Water Quality District, and overruns in police and fire salaries. The next Finance Committee meeting will take place tomorrow afternoon at 5:30 at City Hall.
Voters at last month's special town meeting. Two articles set aside by voters will be back before them at Tuesday's annual town meeting. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner Berkshires.com)
Williamstown Voters to Decide Spending, Land Issues
Voters at last month's special town meeting. Two articles set aside by voters will be back before them at Tuesday's annual town meeting.
Williamstown Voters will take up a 38-question warrant at Tuesday night's annual town meeting, including two controversial land articles and a request to put aside money to fund a feasibility study for a new police station.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at Mount Greylock Regional High School.
There are two articles at the end of the warrant that would allow voters to remove land from conservation for development of affordable housing by majority vote, and take one land in particular — the Lowry property.
The 30-acre parcel off Stratton Road has become a flashpoint in the town's desire to increase affordable housing and close the Spruces Mobile Home Park.
The proposed fiscal 2014 budget is $6.727 million, up about 2.4 percent over this year.
Among the increases are a 36 percent hike in legal fees, from $25,743 to $35,000, because of events including the scuttled biomass plan in Pownal, Vt.; infrastructure projects and vehicle replacement. The budget also includes cost-savings efficiences, and two administrative posts that were combined.
Terry A La Berry sings with Rosey Dzierga's kindergarten and first-grade after-school class. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/John Durkin)
Brayton, Terry A La Berry Present Anti-Bullying Song, Video
Rosey Dzierga's kindergarten and first-grade after-school pupils shared their anti-bullying message through song with Lenox musician Terry "A La Berry" Hall to community members and families on Monday afternoon at Brayton Elementary School.
"They worked really hard... I think they deserve this recognition," Dzierga said.
The Mindfull program focuses on positive thinking and respecting others. Hall visited Dziegra's summer program last year where he sang the song "One People" with the pupils.
That experience went so well that Hall decided to call up Dzierga when his next project, a music video for his song, "Brave to be Kind," came to fruitation. Hall worked with the children to create a video, with them assisting in the chorus.
Kickoff Of Capital Campaign For Adams-Cheshire Educational Foundation Tonight
The initial kickoff of the 3-year Campaign for ACE….the Adams-Cheshire Educational Foundation, will take place today at the Bounty Fare Restaurant with a spaghetti dinner. The fund was established 11 years ago. The money raised tonight and during other up-coming events will go to support the foundation. Today’s spaghetti dinner at the Bounty Fare Restaurant will begin at 4pm. The price is right…$9 for adults and $7 dollars for seniors and students.
The Selectmen set the warrant on Monday for town meeting. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
Solar Array Going To Lanesborough Town Meeting Floor
Lanesborough,Voters are being asked to give the Board of Selectmen the authority to lease land for a solar project.
An energy committee previously identified land on Prospect Street as a viable location for a solar array.
The land was purchased by the town to be the site of a senior center but that never came to fruition because fund sources had dried up.
Now the town is considering using that land instead for a 1.5 megawatt solar array that could provide about $58,000 in revenue per year.
However, that will need town meeting approval so an article authorizing the board to enter into a lease will be on this year's town meeting warrant while the committee continues working on a proposal.
The article was a late addition to the warrant, which was nearly finalized on Monday.
Pittsfield Cuts Ribbon On 'Learning Trail' To Promote Literacy
Springside Park in Pittsfield is now a little more literary.
Mayor Daniel Bianchi cut the ribbon Monday on the new Born Learning Trail, which is a series of 10 signs around the playground outlining activities for children to do.
The effort was headed by Pittsfield Promise, a collaboration of organizations working toward improving early education literacy programs.
The trail is yet another effort toward reaching the goal of 90 percent proficiency. The activities mix physical activity, reading and hands-on context for the children. Some of the activities include asking children to pretend to be an animal or to find a flower.
The trail was funded by the state Department of Early Education and Care with federal funds. The park was chosen after speaking with many early education providers, who said it would get the most use there. Berkshire Fence and the city's parks and recreation department installed the signage.
Pittsfield PD Capture One Armed Robbery Suspect… One On The Loose
Pittsfield police have arrested one of two men they believe robbed Berkshire Pipe and Tobacco on Tyler Street Sunday evening. 30-year-old Mark Rathbun was arrested by police and arraigned in Central Berkshire District Court yesterday. Rathbun was ordered held on $10,000 dollars cash bail. Meanwhile, police say they are looking for the second suspect, 29-year-old Brian Boudreau and have an arrest warrant out on him. It’s alleged that the two men held up Berkshire Pipe & Tobacco at knifepoint around 7pm Sunday night then fled.
Republican Senate Candidate In The Berkshires Today
The last time Republican U.S. Senate candidate, Gabriel Gomez visited the Berkshires, he made an unannounced Sunday morning visit to Daddy’O’s dinner in Pittsfield and talked to diners who had little idea who he was. Word today is that Gomez will pay the Berkshires another visit and this time, he’ll make a 2:30 stop at Lenco Industries at 10 Betner Industrial Drive in Pittsfield. Lenco is a manufacturer of armored swat vehicles used by the military and police.
Berkshire Brigades Open Downtown Pittsfield Office
The Grand Opening of Berkshire Brigades’ Massachusetts Democratic Party’s New Office took place over the weekend. The new office located above the Beacon Cinema at 55 North Street and was officially dedicated by U.S. Congressman Richard Neal with 2nd Berkshire District State Representative Paul Mark handling the duties of Master of Ceremonies. The Berkshire Brigades were solidly behind Congressman Richard Neal during his last election and appear to be solidly behind Edward Markey for U.S. Senate.
Milling Work To Begin On South Street Today
Weather permitting, milling work will begin today and continue tomorrow on South Street to remove the top layers of pavement. The milling work will take place from Spadina Parkway to the entrance of Berkshire Life Insurance Company across the road from the Country Club of Pittsfield. Motorists can expect delays. It’s all part of the $6 million reconstruction of South Street that began last year.
Cleanup Of SilverLake In Pittsfield Continues
If you drive by Silver Lake off East Street in Pittsfield, you’ll notice work progressing as the cleanup of the little lake continues. So far, large amounts of PCB-contaminated sludge has been pulled up…along with several automobiles and other interesting objects. Workers said they’ve seen some large snapping turtles and other wildlife in the lake. To date, more than 16,500 cubic yards of contaminated sediment has been removed from the lake. The toxic refuse is stored temporarily at GE's building 65 in Pittsfield, before being shipped by truck or rail to a licensed landfill site in Michigan. The next phase to be conducted over the summer, will be the installation of a 14-inch cap composed of sand and composted material. The project will finish up with a 2,000 foot walking trail shrouded in 1,000 native trees and plants. The project could be completed by Labor Day.
Foxwoods Seeks A Financial Win With Mass. Casino
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut's Foxwoods Resort Casino is looking to expand next door in Massachusetts.
The operators of the biggest casino in North America are proposing a $1 billion, 300,000-square foot resort off I-495 in Milford, Mass., about 40 miles southwest of Boston. Plans call for more than 4,000 slot machines, dozens of table games and hotel rooms, restaurants and other attractions.
Foxwoods is pressed by stiff competition in the Northeast. It's seeking new markets and more revenue.
The casino can expect a barrage of questions from Milford officials and residents skeptical about its finances and the impact on traffic, water and sewer systems and police and fire services.
CEO Scott Butera says Foxwoods is on sound financial footing to take on the huge undertaking.
Sen. Mccain To Attend Rally For Mass. GOP's Gomez
BOSTON (AP) — Republican U.S. Senate candidate Gabriel Gomez is hoping to get a needed boost of cash and enthusiasm when U.S. Senator John McCain, an Arizona Republican and fellow Navy veteran, stops by for a fundraiser and morning rally.
The Monday rally is planned for a Boston VFW post in the city's Dorchester neighborhood. Tickets to the fundraiser range from $2,600 for lunch to $37,000 per person for a VIP round-table.
Democratic candidate Edward Markey on Monday is planning to attend a Congressional Badge of Bravery Ceremony at the Moakley Federal Courthouse in Boston to honor Woburn Police Officer Mark Gibbons for his actions after a jewelry store robbery.
Markey could also release six years of tax returns as early as this week. Gomez has already released six years of returns.
The election is June 25.
Mass. Energy Summit To Focus On Cutting Costs
NORWOOD, Mass. (AP) — Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley will host an energy summit to bring together experts in the field for discussions on ways to reduce energy costs and improve the state's competitiveness.
Coakley said businesses have frequently cited high energy costs as a major challenge for them to compete against companies in other states. She said the summit will focus on finding solutions to mitigate the costs of energy on businesses and families, while advancing the state's leadership in clean energy policies.
Nearly 200 elected officials, energy and environmental experts, clean energy advocates and business leaders are expected to attend.
The summit is scheduled for Monday at the Four Points Sheraton in Norwood.
Alice's Restaurant Walk Helps Fight Disease
GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. (AP) — About 130 people have retraced Arlo Guthrie's journey immortalized in the song "Alice's Restaurant Massacree" to raise money and awareness for Huntington's disease. The six-mile "Guthrie Historic Garbage Trail Walk" now in its 13th year, runs from the former Alice's Restaurant in Stockbridge to the Guthrie Center in Great Barrington. Arlo Guthrie's father, Woody Guthrie, died of complications from the neuromuscular disorder it in 1967.
The walk Sunday roughly followed the route covered by Arlo Guthrie and a friend in 1965 following a Thanksgiving Day dinner at Alice's Restaurant. Guthrie and his friend were arrested for littering after they dumped trash down an embankment because the town dump was closed.
The Berkshire Eagle reports that the amount raise has yet to be determined, but last year's walk raised about $10,000.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Amsler Campus Center filled with graduates, faculty and family (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels)
MCLA Hold Graduation Ceremony Saturday
The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams held their 114th commencement ceremony Saturday with Diane Patrick, the First Lady of Massachusetts was the keynote speaker. More than 400 students at MCLA were awarded degrees along with Diane Patrick and three others, receiving honorary degrees for extraordinary service in their professions. The First Lady told graduates about her struggle with depression and said it gave her an opportunity to learn about her strengths and challenges and that they should recognize the strength and determination that each of them has within them.
Adams Man Arrested On Assault Charges
A 38-year-old Adams man is being held on $50,000 bail at the Adams Police Department until he can be arraigned in court today. The Berkshire Eagle reports that David Faria was arrested Saturday for allegedly assaulting and kidnapping his wife and is facing nine assault charges including kidnapping, attempted murder, assault, intimidation of a witness and other charges. Police said it all happened after his wife came home around 4am Saturday morning.
The five-person panel consisted of state Rep. Gailanne Cariddi, Douglas Plachcinski of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, Town Administrator Jonathan Butler, Mayor Richard Alcombright and Lauren Stevens of the Hoosic River Watershed Association. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/John Durkin)
Expansion Of Ashuwillticook Rail Trail Being Discussed
Thousands of people enjoy a walk along the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail that runs from Lanesboro to Adams. Last week, a five-person panel consisting of State Rep. Gailanne Cariddi, Douglas Plachcinski of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, Adams Town Administrator Jonathan Butler, North Adams Mayor Richard Alcombright and Lauren Stevens of the Hoosic River Watershed Association, met at the Adams Visitors Center to look at plans to expand the trail into North Adams. Plans are still moving forward for an expansion with the approximately $1.9 million extension to Lime Street expected to be completed by mid-2014. Mayor Alcombright is already looking beyond that and the Hodges Cross Road extension, a project to cost about $2.3 million.
Massachusetts residents and a lot of people in 43 states were disappointed over the weekend when the Powerball drawing produced one winning ticket sold in the State of Florida. The single ticket sold at a supermarket in Zephyrhills, Florida had the winning number for the top prize an estimated at $590.5 million. Ticket sales accounted for about 80 percent of all possible number combinations. Powerball.com said the winner means the current estimated jackpot resets at $40 million or $25.1 million cash value.
Pittsfield Man Sentenced Friday For Long List Of Charges
A 25-year-old Pittsfield man will be spending a lot of time at the Berkshire County House of Correction after his sentencing on Friday. Berkshire Superior Court
Judge C. Jeffrey Kinder sentenced Christopher White to concurrent 18 month sentences on a total of 15 charges that included breaking and entering and larceny from a building. White was also placed on two year probation. White admitted to breaking into houses in Hancock, Hinsdale, Richmond, Dalton, Washington and Washington between September 2011 and January 2012.
Tyler Street Convenience Store Robbed At Knifepoint
Pittsfield police are investigating an armed robbery that took place early last evening at Berkshire Pipe and Tobacco store at 498 Tyler Street. Police said they were searching for two men who allegedly held up the clerk at knifepoint around 7pm last night. No one was injured and police did not say if the two suspects made off with anything. They did say that one suspect fled on foot and the other on a bicycle….both in the direction of Brown Street. Police brought in the city’s canine unit but was unsuccessful in locating either suspect. Police are asking anyone with any information to please call them.
Foxwoods Seeks A Financial Win With Mass. Casino
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut's Foxwoods Resort Casino is looking to expand next door in Massachusetts.
The operators of the biggest casino in North America are proposing a $1 billion, 300,000-square foot resort off I-495 in Milford, Mass., about 40 miles southwest of Boston. Plans call for more than 4,000 slot machines, dozens of table games and hotel rooms, restaurants and other attractions.
Foxwoods is pressed by stiff competition in the Northeast. It's seeking new markets and more revenue.
The casino can expect a barrage of questions from Milford officials and residents skeptical about its finances and the impact on traffic, water and sewer systems and police and fire services.
CEO Scott Butera says Foxwoods is on sound financial footing to take on the huge undertaking.
Washington Scandals Intrude On Mass. Senate Race
BOSTON (AP) — The controversies swirling around the Obama administration are threatening to engulf Massachusetts' special U.S. Senate election.
Those include the IRS targeting of conservative groups and lingering questions about last year's terrorist attack in Benghazi, Libya.
The troubles could make it harder for Republican candidate Gabriel Gomez to turn the focus of the race back to jobs, the economy and the budget as he tries to tie his rival, longtime Democratic Congressman Edward Markey, to the nation's sluggish recovery.
But the episodes could also prove problematic for Markey and other Democratic candidates if the public begins to blame President Barack Obama for the perceived overreach of the Democratic administration.
The special election to fill the Senate seat formerly held by Secretary of State John Kerry is June 25.
Sen. Mccain To Attend Rally For Mass. GOP's Gomez
BOSTON (AP) — Republican U.S. Senate candidate Gabriel Gomez is hoping to get a needed boost of cash and enthusiasm when U.S. Senator John McCain, an Arizona Republican and fellow Navy veteran, stops by for a fundraiser and morning rally.
The Monday rally is planned for a Boston VFW post in the city's Dorchester neighborhood. Tickets to the fundraiser range from $2,600 for lunch to $37,000 per person for a VIP round-table.
Democratic candidate Edward Markey on Monday is planning to attend a Congressional Badge of Bravery Ceremony at the Moakley Federal Courthouse in Boston to honor Woburn Police Officer Mark Gibbons for his actions after a jewelry store robbery.
Markey could also release six years of tax returns as early as this week. Gomez has already released six years of returns.
The election is June 25.
Mass. Energy Summit To Focus On Cutting Costs
NORWOOD, Mass. (AP) — Massachusetts Attorney General Martha Coakley will host an energy summit to bring together experts in the field for discussions on ways to reduce energy costs and improve the state's competitiveness.
Coakley said businesses have frequently cited high energy costs as a major challenge for them to compete against companies in other states. She said the summit will focus on finding solutions to mitigate the costs of energy on businesses and families, while advancing the state's leadership in clean energy policies.
Nearly 200 elected officials, energy and environmental experts, clean energy advocates and business leaders are expected to attend.
The summit is scheduled for Monday at the Four Points Sheraton in Norwood.
Making Mentally Ill Defendants Ready For Trial
KERRVILLE, Texas (AP) — Lawmakers in a number of states are scrambling to cut the cost of preparing mental
Friday, May 17, 2013
Army Spc. Mitchell Daehling of Dalton was reportedly killed in action in Afghanistan earlier this week. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner Berkshires.com)
Wahconah High Graduate Killed in Afghanistan
A Dalton local soldier was killed in Afghanistan earlier this week
Army Spec. Mitchell Daehling, son of Kirk and Brenda Daehling of Dalton, was a 2006 Wahconah Regional High School graduate. The school's flag was reportedly at half staff on Thursday and his parents had left to meet his body at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. Daehling is the third Berkshire County serviceman killed in action in the Afghanistan War, known under the operations name of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Army Sgt. First Class Daniel H. Petithory, a 1987 graduate of Hoosac Valley High School, was killed Dec. 5, 2001.,
Army Spc. Michael DeMarsico of North Adams was on his first overseas tour when he was killed in a roadside bombing last August .
Two other locally connected servicemen were lost while on active duty. Army Sgt. Glenn R. Allison, 24, of Pittsfield, died Dec. 18, 2003, from a physical ailment while serving during the Iraq War with the 10th Mountain Division. Marine Lance Cpl. Roger W. Muchnick Jr., whose family has roots in Lenox, was killed when a mortar shell exploded during a training exercise in Nevada in March.
Adams Preparing To SellCommunity Center
The Town of Adams is preparing to sell the former Community Center on East Street, where the Youth Center currently operates. The Youth Center has been planning on moving into the old Memorial School in the future after outgrowing the Community Center. IBerkshires.com reports that Youth Center's membership has grown from about 30 to nearly 200 members in just three years and the center has plans to expand programming to become a "full-fledged community center." Center officials are modeling their future after organizations like the YMCA or the Dalton Community Recreation Center but none of their expansion plans will be possible if they do not find the right facility.
(Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
HoosacValley H.S. Students Visited By Employers
Hoosac Valley High School students got a glimpse of their future yesterday when about 40 businesses and professionals filled the gym to explain their careers. IBerkshires.com reports that around 70 employers representing a wide range of professions, met with students from Grades 8 through 12 to share what their jobs entail and what qualifications are needed. The careers included local and state police, banking, manufacturing, EMS and physical therapy. Many presenters brought representatives from various professions within their organizations. The students were asked to fill out a questionnaire about the jobs they'd choose and note the educational needs and details of the profession.
A floating payloader is being used to pull up debris from SilverLake; disturbing the sediment caused recent spikes in airborne PCBs. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/Joe Durwin)
River Council Grills EPA On Silver LakeCleanup
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was taken to task on Wednesday for not doing enough to alert residents around Pittsfield's Silver Lake to airborne PCBs.
The toxic and cancer-linked chemicals were used by General Electric in capacitor production for years. Judy Herkimer, director of the Housatonic Environmental Action League blasted the EPA for not notifying the public of the spikes in airborne levels, which resulted from sediment being stirred up while removing major debris, including piers, pipes, tree branches and several automobiles.
To date, more than 16,500 cubic yards of contaminated sediment has been removed from the lake. The toxic refuse is stored temporarily at GE's building 65 in Pittsfield, before being shipped by truck or rail to a licensed landfill site in Michigan.
First Third Thursday Of The Season Draws Large Crowd
The first Third Thursday of the season drew a large crowd to downtown Pittsfield yesterday with an estimated 10,000 people making their way downtown to enjoy the party. With a theme of Youth, a ½ mile of North Street had stages on just about every block, featuring a wide assortment of entertainment featuring kids of all ages. The weather cooperated with temperatures in the low 70’s by 5pm and stayed warm thru the evening. North Street was closed to traffic from 5-8pm so people could walk the streets without worry. Pittsfield Cultural Director, Megan Whelden said next month, the Third Thursday theme will be “Play Ball” in honor of the great American past time being born in Pittsfield and the Pittsfield Suns opening their 2nd season next month at Wahconah Park.
Northern Berkshire Relay For Life Ready To Go Two Weeks From Today.
Two weeks from today, the American Cancer Society’s Northern Berkshire Relay for Life will get underway at Noel Field Complex on Rt. 8 in North Adams. The Relay gets underway on Friday, May 31st at 6pm and ends on Saturday June 1st. Northern Berkshire Relay Publicity Chair, Pat Decker, said that to date, the Northern Berkshire Relay For Life has raised $67,678 and currently has 56 teams registered. It’s not too late to join a team and you can certainly donate in advance to a team taking part in this year’s Relay for Life. Log onto Relayforlife.Org and enter the zip code for North Adams to find out more about teams, donations and activities at this year’s Relay for Life.
CEO Randy Kinnas outlined the new strategic plan on Thursday in a meeting with community leaders. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
Pittsfield YMCA Planning Major Changes In Operations
The Y is completely revamping that way it operates.
And presented a new strategic plan Thursday that calls for dramatically changing how they handle finances, recruit and retain employees and leaders, change the perspective the community has, collaborate with other agencies and embark on a capital project on its facilities. CEO Randy Kinnas said "The status quo is not an option,"
The Y is going to be revamping its programming to create a "Y without walls." The organization will going out into the community to partner with other organizations and run programs outside as well as inside the facility.
LeePublic Schools Get A New Leader
Lee Public Schools have a new Superintendent. John “Jack” Rizzo was named as the new Superintendent this week to replace “Jake” McCandless who is taking over as Superintendent of Pittsfield Public Schools as of July 1. Rizzo is from the West Springfield area and is currently head of a private catholic high school in Honolulu, Hawaii. Rizzo has 32 years of educational experience and has served as Superintendent of the Windham Southwest Advisory Union in Vermont and principal in the Ludlow and West Springfield school systems.
Bulger Prosecutors Want Criminal Checks On Jurors
BOSTON (AP) — Federal prosecutors in the upcoming racketeering trial of Massachusetts' reputed gangster Whitey Bulger want to do criminal background checks on potential jurors.
In a court filing Thursday, prosecutors cited the case of convicted killer Gary Sampson, who was sentenced to death for carjacking and killing two Massachusetts men and was also convicted of killing a New Hampshire man during a 2001 crime spree. Sampson's sentence was set aside by a judge who found that one juror repeatedly answered questions about her life dishonestly.
Prosecutors said conducting background checks will help determine whether potential jurors have truthfully answered questionnaires and minimize the chance of a mistrial.
The former leader of the Winter Hill Gang is scheduled to go on trial next month. An indictment accuses him of participating in 19 murders.
Mass. Senate Candidate Pays 2005 Appraisal Fee
QUINCY, Mass. (AP) — Republican U.S. Senate candidate Gabriel Gomez says he has paid an appraiser a $1,000 fee for an appraisal on his Cohasset home eight years ago, while saying he doesn't remember the bill.
Gomez said Thursday he paid the fee after The Boston Globe reported that the appraiser had filed a claim against Gomez in small claims court.
The appraiser said Gomez hired him in 2005 to help determine how much he could deduct from his federal tax return in exchange for agreeing not to make alterations on the facade of the historic home. Gomez reportedly declined to pay the fee after receiving a more generous evaluation from another appraiser.
Democrats have criticized the $281,000 tax break, saying local bylaws already prevented Gomez from changing the facade of the house.
Gomez has defended the tax deduction.
Primary Over, Groups Focus On Markey, Gomez Race
BOSTON (AP) — Outside groups are beginning to pour money into the U.S. Senate battle pitting Democrat Edward Markey and Republican Gabriel Gomez.
The Service Employees International Union's political action committee has reported spending more than $340,000 on voter canvassing efforts designed to encourage Markey supporters to get to the polls on election day.
Reports filed with the Federal Election Commission show the spending comes after Markey defeated fellow congressman Stephen Lynch in the Democratic primary.
During the Democratic primary, outside groups spent nearly $1.8 million supporting Markey and opposing Lynch.
That included the SEIU's Committee on Political Education, which spent nearly $320,000 to back Markey's primary bid.
The SEIU focuses on organizing workers in the health care, building maintenance and public services sectors.
The election to fill the seat left vacant by the resignation of John Kerry is June 25.
GOP Senate Hopeful Gomez Launches Television Ad
BOSTON (AP) — Republican U.S. Senate hopeful Gabriel Gomez is planning to release the first television ad of his campaign against Democrat Edward Markey.
Gomez introduces himself in Spanish in the 30-second ad and talks about the goal he had growing up of serving his parent's adopted country by becoming a Navy SEAL.
The ad is paid for by the Massachusetts Republican Party.
It comes after Markey released a new ad Thursday criticizing Gomez for opposing reinstatement of a federal assault weapons ban and a ban on high capacity magazines "like the ones used in the Newtown school shooting."
Gomez campaign officials don't dispute the ad's substance, but say it shows Markey wants to avoid talking about jobs, the economy and national security.
The June 25 election is to fill the seat left vacant by U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry.
Thursday, May 16, 2013 Youth Center Vice President Edmund St. John IV presented plans the nonprofit has for the former Middle School but selectmen said they are awaiting cost estimates for repairs before they can agree to a lease. (Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com)Andy McKeever)
Adams Selectmen Reconsidering Middle School Reuse Plan
The cost to repair the former Adams Memorial Middle School for reuse has led the Selectmen to reconsider the plan to lease it to the Youth Center and saucemaker Ooma Tesoro's.
The town had entered negotiations to lease space in the school for those two entities while it develops a long-term plan. However, engineers have looked at the building and say the town will need to invest in the roof, heating system and some of the building envelop just for the short-term usage.
The Selectmen are now awaiting cost estimates to decide the course of action but say they can't support having taxpayers pick up the tab for a costly repair. They cited an array of projects the town is already embarking on and the debt exclusion for the Hoosac Valley Middle and High School which will hit the tax bills next year.
Finance Committee members Mark Denault, left, and Lori-Anne Aubin meet with Selectmen Jeffrey Levanos and Chairman Carl McKinney. Also in attendance were Fin Com member Rebecca Buck, Town Administrator Thomas Webb and Town Accountant Christa Marsh.Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels)
ClarksburgTown Officials Yet To SetAnnualTown Meeting
Frustrated Clarksburg town officials have yet to set a date for their annual town meeting as they try to work through discrepancies in the town's financial accounts.
IBerkshires.com reports that the state Department of Revenue has informed town officials that Monday May 20th may be the earliest it can certify the town's free cash because of years of accounting errors. But it looks like it may be a June date instead because of a 20-day posting requirement. Two weeks ago, the Selectmen authorized the police chief to investigate the discrepancies of the year-end balancing between the treasurer and tax collector's offices going back years. The DOR also is looking at $24,000 in school choice funds placed in the wrong account and possible double entry of the recent Department of Public Works truck loan.
The Price Of Gasoline Is Going Up Again
Just in time for the Memorial Day holiday, gasoline prices are going up again after hitting a recent low of $3.39 seen in Pittsfield. Gasoline price watchdog, GasBuddy.com reports that the lowest price for a gallon of regular gasoline seen in the Berkshires yesterday, was $3.44 in Pittsfield and Lee. The Highest price for a gallon of regular gasoline was also seen in Lee….$3.59. Meanwhile, Massachusetts gasoline prices are up six cents this week, but are still below the national average of $3.48 a gallon. That's 10 cents below the national average, and 23 cents less than at the same time last year.
The Selectmen will set the warrant on Monday. (Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com)Andy McKeever)
Lanesborough Voters To Decide Fate Of Berkshire Carousel
Monday, Lanesboro Selectmen will set the warrant for the June 11th Town Meeting and voters will be asked to approve the borrowing of $500,000 dollars on behalf of the Berkshire Carousel. IBerkshires.com reports that Berkshire Carousel, a
non-profit engaged in hand carving and building a classic carousel, is asking the town to bond $500,000 to help build a facility at Laston Park. After bonding, carousel officials say they'll pay up to $25,000 a year to help pay off the bond. Some town officials expressed some concern about what would happen if the carousel failed at the location…a question they felt needed to be answered for voters.
Pittsfield Man Found Guilty Of Assault Charges
A 48-year-old Pittsfield man was found guilty yesterday in Berkshire Superior Court on several charges. The jury deliberated for about 4 hours before returning its verdict against Francis Daniel-Mensah. He was found guilty of single counts of aggravated assault and battery, assault and battery and a violation of an abuse prevention order. Judge C. Jeffrey Kinder ordered Mensah to serve 1 year of a 2 year sentence at the Berkshire County House of Correction. He was also placed on two years’ probation. The incidents occurred in Pittsfield between October and December 2011 and involved a 28 year old woman. Mensah was found not guilty on one count of rape and one count of intimidation of a witness or other person.
First Third Thursday Of The Season Today In Pittsfield
The first Third Thursday of the season takes place from 5-8pm tonight in downtown Pittsfield. The 7th season kicks off with its usual “Youth” theme with a long list of youth-oriented entertainment taking place. Pittsfield Cultural Director, Megan Whelden said there will an entertainment stage on every block of North Street from Park Square to the intersection of Linden and North Street. In addition, food vendors will be scattered throughout the downtown area with a wide variety of goodies. Pittsfield police will be closing off North Street from Linden and North to Park Square from 5-8pm. Parking is available at the city’s parking decks and parking lots on either side of North Street. Third Thursday event will run now through October.
New Information On Explosive Device Discovered On Reservation
Some new information has come out about the explosive device found on Monument Mountain in Great Barrington on Saturday. While searching for 28-year-old Edward Passetto of Pittsfield, searchers found a backpack they believed to belong to Passetto. A spokesperson from the State Fire Marshall’s Office, told 22-News that the backpack left behind by Passetto, had nothing wrong with it. They were told the explosive that was found, was discovered wedged between some rocks at the cliff. State Police blew up the explosive device in a controlled detonation. Passetto jumped to his death on the Monument Mountain Reservation Saturday. He was a Marine Corp veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Mass. House GOP: Audit IRS On Targeting Of Groups
BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts House Republicans are weighing in on the Internal Revenue Service's targeting of conservative groups.
Republican Leader Brad Jones is planning to offer a resolution in the Massachusetts House condemning the investigation of nonprofit groups with political affiliations.
Jones said the behavior of the IRS has drawn the ire of the groups that were targeted and taxpayers nationwide. He said those investigations amount to "a massive betrayal of public trust."
Jones said he'll offer the resolution during the next full formal House session.
The resolution will ask the state's congressional delegation to support the formation of a select committee made up of elected officials from both parties to investigate the alleged wrongdoings.
Jones said he wants to know if the investigations were the result of a few individuals or reflected a wider systematic failure.
Umass: Senate Budget Plan Won't Avoid Tuition Hike
BOSTON (AP) — University of Massachusetts officials are warning that the Senate's budget proposal doesn't include enough money for the university system to avoid tuition and fee hikes during the upcoming academic year.
Officials said they need $478 million, which Gov. Deval Patrick proposed earlier this year and the House adopted when they passed their version of the budget last month.
The Senate, however, has proposed $455 million. That's an increase over the $439 million the university currently receives, but not enough to guarantee a tuition freeze.
UMass President Robert Caret said university officials hope to press the Senate to adopt an amendment matching the higher number when they debate their nearly $34 billion state budget next week.
The new state budget must be approved by lawmakers and signed by Patrick by July 1.
Mass. Gov. Patrick Continues Ireland Trade Mission
BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Deval Patrick is continuing his trade mission to Ireland as he tries to strengthen economic ties with Massachusetts.
On Wednesday, Patrick and Massachusetts Senate President Therese Murray met with the Prime Minister of Ireland Enda Kenny.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for economic development and job creation between Massachusetts and Ireland.
Patrick also met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade for Ireland Eamon Gilmore on Wednesday and attended a Digital Health and Life Sciences Trade Summit, sponsored by the Massachusetts' Life Sciences Center.
In 2012, Ireland was the state's 14th largest export partner, with over $509 million in goods and services sent to the country. Massachusetts is also Ireland's sixth largest import partner. Patrick is set to return to the state on Friday.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
FY2014 Budget Presented At N.A.City Council Meeting
The North Adams City Council got their first look at the proposed FY2014 city budget last night. Mayor Richard Alcombright’s budget is asking for $36.6 million dollars. In a letter to the council, the mayor said the proposed budget is out of balance with anticipated revenues by approximately $453-thousand dollars and is truly reflective of necessary costs to maintain municipal and school services. Mayor Alcombright is asking the council to refer the proposed budget to FinCom and that three meetings be scheduled for review. He suggested meeting dates of May 20, May 22 and May 28th at City Hall. Mayor Alcombright said that after a review by FinCom, he will bring the finalized document with what is known as the “Classification and Compensation Plans” to the Council at their June 11th meeting with hopes of adoption at the June 28th meeting. The fiscal year kicks in on July 1st
Congressman Richard Neal Continues District Office Hours In The Berkshires
Congressman Richard Neal is continuing his district office hours in the Berkshires this week and yesterday, his staff held district hours in Clarksburg and Florida. Today, district office hours will be held at Adams Town Hall from noon – 1pm and at Lanesboro Town Hall from 1:30 – 2:30pm. If you can’t make it to his district office hours, Congressman Neal has a full time office in Pittsfield at the Silvio O. Conte Federal Building on Center Street.
Hadley Overpass To Be Closed Overnight Today And Tomorrow. 7pm – 6am
Mayor Richard Alcombright has issued the latest update from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation regarding the schedule for the Hadley Overpass. Mayor Alcombright said the Bridge is scheduled to close during the overnight hours today and tomorrow, from 7PM to 6AM. Construction workers will be doing a deck pour. Of course, the schedule is dependent on the weather.
Frosty Conditions Prevail Across The Region
The National Weather Service in Albany has been saying we could get some frost for the past couple of mornings and this morning, a widespread frost occurred as temperatures dropped into the upper 20’s in some areas. Under clear skies, the southern Berkshires saw temperatures dip below 30 degrees in a few areas with frost reported in some areas. Pittsfield and North Adams both reported temperatures in the upper 20’s with widespread frost. Average low temperatures during mid-May are supposed to be in the mid-40’s.
Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation Supports Elder Services’ Meals On Wheels Program
Elder Services’ Nutrition/Meals on Wheels program has received a $1,000 grant from Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation for Williamstown and a $4,800 grant from the James and Robert Hardman Fund, to provide meals for North Adams, Clarksburg, and Florida seniors. The grant money will support the Elder Services’ Nutrition/Meals on Wheels program, which provides hot, nutritious, noontime meals to over 1,000 Berkshire seniors each weekday. The money comes in handy since the cost of preparing, serving, and delivering the meals to Berkshire seniors continues to grow. Elder Services’ Nutrition program relies on community support to help keep Meals on Wheels rolling.
BRTA Details Phased Plan For Adding Buses & Routes
With a proposed state budget that would "forward fund" the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority, leaders are already eyeing nearly $10 million in expansion in five years. IBerkshires.com reports that Robert Malnati, BRTA assistant administrator, presented a schedule for the use of federal funds for the next five years at yesterday’s Transportation Advisory Committee meeting. The organization has been using federal reimbursements for operating costs, but with an increase in state funding, Malnati said they hope to use federal funds for capital investments. He outlined a list of expenditures that includes satellite facilities in North and South County, various new buses and upgrading the facility for natural gas.
Pittsfield Police Honor Fallen Officers
With Memorial Day approaching, Pittsfield police held their annual memorial yesterday in honor of police officers killed the line of duty…including 5 Pittsfield officers. The ceremony took place in front of police headquarters on Allen Street as part of National Police Week. The Honor Guard honored fallen Pittsfield police officers Capt. Michael Leonard, who died in 1898; Jailer James Fuller who died in 1901, Secret Service Operative William Craig who died in 1902, Officer Leo Sullivan who died in 1956 and Officer Timothy Shepard who died in 1988. All of them were killed while working in or for the city. Nationally, 321 new names will be added to the national list….120 of whom died in the line of duty last year.
Springfield Man Pleads Guilty To Drug And Firearm Charges
A 39-year-old Springfield man will be serving time in state prison after pleading guilty to drug and firearms charges yesterday in Berkshire Superior Court. Yarmi Lamart-Cofield pled guilty to multiple firearms charges including illegal ownership of a firearm, rifle or shotgun, illegal possession of ammunition and many more. He also pled guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. Superior Court Judge C. Jeffrey Kinder sentenced him to concurrent 4-5 years in state prison and time at the Berkshire County House of Correction. The charges stem from the execution of a search warrant at 76 Linden Street in Pittsfield on September 19, 2012.
Budget Debate Moves To Mass. Senate
BOSTON (AP) — Another step in the lengthy process of formulating a state budget is about to be taken.
The Senate Ways and Means Committee on Wednesday will unveil its version of the proposed spending plan for the fiscal year starting July 1.
The House passed a roughly $34 billion budget last month that increases total state spending 4 percent over current year levels. That was smaller than the 7 percent increase in spending sought by Gov. Deval Patrick.
The House budget included $500 million in new revenues, including hikes in gasoline and cigarette taxes that were approved as part of a transportation finance plan.
Patrick had asked for nearly $2 billion in new taxes, including a hike in the state income tax. The full Senate is expected to take up the spending plan next week.
MGM Requests July Casino Referendum In Springfield
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — MGM Resorts International has announced that it's requesting a July 16 referendum in Springfield on its $800 million casino plan.
The formal request Tuesday follows the Springfield city council's approval last week of a host community agreement signed by Mayor Domenic Sarno and MGM. The agreement calls for the company to make annual payments of more than $25 million to the city if the casino is built.
Sarno chose MGM's proposal over a plan offered by Penn National Gaming.
Voters must now approve the proposal before it can be formally submitted to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. MGM's is one of three companies vying for the state's lone casino license in Western Massachusetts. Mohegan Sun has proposed a casino in Palmer, and Hard Rock International is planning one in West Springfield.
Boxborough Selectmen Reject Slot Parlor
BOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Selectmen have voted down a Maryland developer's proposal to build a slot parlor in Boxborough, northwest of Boston.
Boxborough Selectman Chairman Leslie Fox tells the Worcester Telegram & Gazette Tuesday that a majority of the board and the town's residents opposed the plan.
The Cordish Companies had proposed a 1,250-machine slot parlor at a former Holiday Inn off Interstate 495.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission plans to award a license for one slot parlor in the state. Three remaining proposals are in Worcester, Raynham and Plainridge.
Fox said that after the company presented its proposal to the town April 22, selectman asked residents for their views. He said comments and emails they received ran about 88 percent against it. He said most expressed concern that it might change the rural town.
Tribe Unveils New Design For Proposed Mass. Casino
TAUNTON, Mass. (AP) — The Mashpee Wampanoag tribe has unveiled a new design for a resort casino it hopes to build in Taunton if the tribe wins state and federal approvals for the project.
The architectural renderings were released Tuesday at a meeting of the Taunton City Council. The S-shaped design of the hotel replaces earlier sketches that showed an L-shaped structure.
The tribe unveiled the plans on the eve of a key hearing before a legislative committee on a proposed casino compact it reached with Gov. Deval Patrick. If approved by lawmakers, the agreement would replace an earlier compact that was rejected by the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The state gambling commission recently voted to open up the southeastern Massachusetts region to commercial casino bidders, ending the exclusivity the tribe had enjoyed under the 2011 gambling law.
Mass. Police Investigate Reservoir Trespassing
BELCHERTOWN, Mass. (AP) — Massachusetts state police say they and the FBI are investigating a trespassing incident at the Quabbin Reservoir but have no evidence of terrorism.
The central Massachusetts reservoir supplies drinking water to Boston.
State Police spokesman David Procopio says Tuesday night that a trooper saw two cars parked at a reservoir park entrance at 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, then saw five young men and two young women walking toward them from the reservoir.
Procopio said they are from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Singapore with addresses in Amherst, Cambridge, Sunderland and Northampton, and New York City. He said law enforcement databases show no warrants, detainers or advisories on them.
The men told police they are recently graduated chemical engineers curious about the reservoir. Procopio said they will be summoned to court later on trespassing charges.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013 Selectwoman Jane Allen has organized a committee comprised of the heads of most of the town's boards to research the possibility of developing subsidized housing on the Lowry property. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Stephen Dravis)
Williamstown Agrees to Accept FEMA Grant
The Williamstown Board of Selectmen on Monday authorized the town manager to sign a $6.1 million Hazard Mitigation Grant Contract that will result in the town's acquisition and eventual closure of the Spruces Mobile Home Park.
Town Manager Peter Fohlin explained that although an agreement has not been signed with the park's current owner, he is confident that such an agreement will be reached. But he advised that the town not spend a dollar of the grant money until Morgan signs on the dotted line.In other business on Monday, the Selectmen granted a request for a change in license to serve alcohol at the Williamstown Theatre Festival from the festival itself to local restaurant Hops and Vines, and it moved forward with a plan to create a community electric aggregation along with several Berkshire County communities, including the city of North Adams.
Saturday’s Postal Letter Carriers Food Drive A Big Success
Postal letter carriers throughout the Berkshires conducted their annual food drive this past Saturday and it appears it was one of the best ever. In the northern Berkshires, Al Nelson from the Berkshire Interfaith Action Initiative and a volunteer with the Friendship Center Food Pantry, said the numbers were very impressive. 30,000 pounds of food was collected in the central Berkshires and over 15,000 in the southern Berkshires. The total amount countywide was also very impressive….71,500 pounds of food…a total increase of 24,500 pounds. The donated food was used to service over 29 local food pantries and feeding programs in Berkshire County.
Dug-Out Motel Can Be Auctioned If Owners Or Lenders Will Not Pay
The Dug-Out motel in Adams may soon be auctioned off if someone doesn’t get paid.
In Pittsfield Housing Court last week, New York attorney Douglas Rose, receiver of the 99 Howland Avenue motel, was granted permission to sell the property on public auction as early as this summer. Neither the owner, Shoba Inc., nor the mortgaging bank, Bayview Loan Servicing, has reimbursed Rose the $15,000 in expenses he incurred while running the motel during his receivership, which began in December.
The motel was ordered vacated by the town Board of Health in November due to flagrant sanitary concerns and state building code violations.
Chamber President Glenn Maloney opens a session on upcoming events in the city, including the return of Wilco's Solid Sound Festival. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels)
N.A. Gearing Up For Solid Sound Festival Next Month
Galleries and merchants in North Adams are once again gearing up for a welcomed invasion of Wilco fans next month. Iberkshires.com reports that Solid Sound brought 5,000 people to North Adams the last time it was here. The star of the Solid Sound Festival next month is Grammy-award winning Wilco. The festival, which will take place on June 21-23, also offers a weekend of special installations and concerts, and alternative fare for all ages. The North Adams Chamber of Commerce and the city are teaming up for a "Talk to a Townie" promotion in which local volunteers on the Mass MoCA campus, will don brightly colored T-shirts that say "I'm from North Adams, ask me anything." The chamber will also be distributing promotional materials including a map and an advertising brochure for restaurants. The city has also created a new website, in cooperation with the North Adams Chamber of Commerce, at “explorenorthadams.com.”
Mass. Gas Prices Up 6 Cents This Week
BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts gasoline prices are up six cents this week, but are still below the national average. AAA Southern New England reports Monday that the average prices for a gallon of self-serve, regular in the state is $3.48 per gallon.
That's 10 cents below the national average, and 23 cents less than at the same time last year. AAA found self-serve, regular for as low as $3.35 per gallon and as high as $3.69.
Congressman Richard Neal Continues District Office Hours In The Berkshires
Congressman Richard Neal is continuing his district office hours in the Berkshires this week and today, his staff will hold hours at Clarksburg Town Hall from noon – 1pm and Florida Town Hall from 1:30 – 2:30pm. Tomorrow, district office hours will be held in Adams and Lanesboro. In addition to his district office hours, Congressman Neal has full time office in the Berkshires located in the Silvio O. Conte Federal Building, 78 Center Street, Pittsfield.
Selectman Robert Barton is resigning from the Board of Selectmen two years into his three-year term. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
Lanesborough Selectman Resigning For School Committee Run
Lanesborough Selectman Robert Barton is resigning from the board.
Barton submitted a letter asking the Board of Selectmen to accept his resignation effective at the end of June while he runs for a seat on the School Committee.
Barton had hoped to resign earlier enough for his selectman's seat to be filled at the June 25 town election but didn't provide quite enough notice.
In other business, the town's dock bylaw voted last year has gone into effect and the Selectmen are now calling for the state Department of Environmental Protection to place a moratorium on issuing licenses for docks in rights of way and on town roads.
Pittsfield Man Pleads Guilty To Larceny Charges
A 31-year-old Pittsfield man pled guilty yesterday afternoon in Berkshire Superior Court to several charges. John Meyette appeared before Judge C. Jeffrey Kinder and pled guilty to single counts of larceny over $250 and conspiracy to commit larceny over $250. Judge Kinder ordered Meyette to serve a 32 day sentence at the Berkshire County House of Correction on the charge of larceny over $250. He was also placed on 1 year probation on the other charge. The charges stem from an incident in Pittsfield on July 20, 2011. One count of breaking and entering a motor vehicle in the nighttime with intent to commit a felony was dismissed at the request of the Commonwealth.
Last Chance For Convicted Bank Robber
A 23-year-old convicted bank robber who is on probation, has been given one more chance to clean up her act. The Berkshire Eagle reports that in Berkshire Superior Court yesterday, Judge C. Jeffrey Kinder told Brenda Santos of Whitman, Massachusetts….that he would agree to let her return to a Boston area drug treatment program. Judge Kinder told Santos to treat this decision as her last recourse. Santos is on probation for the March 2012 daylight robbery of the Greylock Federal Credit Union office on Elm Street in which she passed a teller a note and made off with $2,900 in cash. Last month, she was placed on two years of probation after pleading guilty to a single count of unarmed robbery.
Group: Doctors Have Right To Discuss Gun Safety
BOSTON (AP) — The Massachusetts Medical Society is reaffirming the right of doctors in the state to discuss gun safety with their patients.
During its annual meeting on Saturday, the statewide association for physicians and medical students adopted a policy on gun violence.
The policy says physicians have the right to talk to their patients about gun safety and the ownership and storage of guns in the context of obtaining a private medical history.
The policy encourages health care providers to review gun safety as a routine component of preventive care.
The policy also says that the medical society can promote and support state legislative efforts to make licensing and background checks mandatory for all firearm sales and can work with the American Medical Association to support efforts to do the same on a national level.
Monday, May 13, 2013
New Walmart Superstore In N.A. Draws Weekend Crowds
The new Wal-Mart Superstore in North Adams drew quite a crowd during their grand-opening weekend. Rain on Saturday prompted shoppers to invade the store….
Friday, May 10, 2013
The RenfrewCenter in the AdamsCorporatePark will be the new home of TOG Manufacturing. Town meeting will take up a tax incentive toward the company's relocation and investment. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
TOG Manufacturing In N.A. Moving To Adams To Expand
A North Adams manufacturing company will be moving to Adams in order to triple in size. IBerkshires.com reports that TOG Manufacturing located in the Hardman Industrial Park in North Adams, is expected to move south to the Renfrew Center in the Adams Corporate Park. The company has outgrown its current space but has no opportunity to expand in their currant location, so officials are looking to the mostly vacant 79,000 square foot building at 43 Printworks Drive in Adams. The company employs 45 full-time residents in the Northern Berkshire area and the move will create even more jobs.
Volunteers Needed For Flag Placement At AdamsCemetery
One of the sure signs of spring is the sudden appearance of American flags in local cemeteries, placed at the graves of departed veterans. In Adams, the flags are placed on the graves by local volunteers, Boy Scouts and veterans representing the American Legion Post 160 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1995. Tomorrow at 9am, flags will be placed on the graves of veterans at Bellevue Cemetery in Adams and Flag coordinator John Bordeau, says that local volunteers are always welcome to lend a helping hand in distributing the flags. Bordeau said he will be at Bellevue Cemetery at 9 am tomorrow to distribute the flags. He also said that all participants are invited to “pizza party” at the Adams American Legion once the project is completed.
Elms President Mary Reap and BCC President Ellen Kennedy signed an agreement Wednesday that further builds a relationship the two schools already have. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
ElmsCollege Bringing BA Program To BerkshireCounty
The chance for BCC students to earn a bachelor's degree from Elms College just got a lot closer by about 40 miles.
Officials from Berkshire Community College and Elms signed an articulation agreement Wednesday that will bring Elms human services professors to Lee Middle and High School to teach Saturday courses.
Starting in September, students who graduate BCC can go on to earn their bachelor's degree in social services without leaving the Berkshires.
The off-site campus is the next step in a lengthy partnership the two colleges have had. Audrey Ringer, BCC human services professor, said the majority of her students who go on to bachelor programs, go to Elms. The two schools have worked collaboratively for the 16 years she has been there to align their programs.
Annual Postal Letter Carriers Food Drive Tomorrow
The 20th annual postal letter carriers food drive is scheduled for tomorrow throughout the Berkshires. Letter carriers are asking residents to put donations of non-perishable food items in plastic bags near their mailboxes where the food will be picked up and brought to distribution centers where it will go to local food pantries. The Letter Carriers food drive is the largest food drive in the Berkshires and raised nearly 47,000 pounds of food last year. This year, the Pittsfield post office mailed specially marked plastic collection bags to residents. Post offices taking part in the Berkshires include Pittsfield, North Adams, Lanesboro, Great Barrington, Lee and Williamstown…to name a few.
New Principal And Assistant Principal At Mt.GreylockHigh School
Mt. Greylock High School in Williamstown is having a complete change of authority at the top. Superintendent of the schools Rose Ellis, has appointed Mary MacDonald as the new principal of Mt. Greylock High School effective July 1st. MacDonald replaces Principal John “Jack” Kurty, who was hired only last year. Kurty has been on a leave of absence prior to his resignation last month. MacDonald takes over as Principal after serving the school district for nearly 20 years and has been coordinator of curriculum instruction and assessment for the Williamstown-Lanesboro Public Schools.
State Rep. William 'Smitty' Pignatelli, left, poses with Barbara Minkler, Carol Ide, Charles Bradshaw, Mayor Richard Alcombright and Cindy Brown. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/John Durkin)
Three Educators Honored At MCLA Award Ceremony
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts is making sure teachers are recognized for their efforts with the annual Berkshire County Educator Recognition Award.
This year, Charles Bradshaw from Wahconah Regional High School in Dalton, Carol Ide of Undermountain Elementary School in Sheffield and Barbara Minkler of Muddy Brook Elementary School in Great Barrington received the awards, presented by 4th Berkshire district state Rep. William "Smitty" Pignatelli.
Above, School Committee members Chairwoman Margaret McComish, left, and Valerie Hall at Wednesday's meeting, at which the committee went over the final spending numbers for this year. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Stephen Dravis)
Williamstown Elementary Finances in Good Shape
At its monthly meeting, the Williamstown School Committee took a look at how its fiscal 2013 budget is faring. And the news was all good, mostly because the relatively mild winter helped the school district save significantly on its heating bills.
The revolving funds — the equivalent of a municipality's "free cash" — are a surplus account that the school district normally might use to close gaps in the budget.
But if the fiscal year ending June 30 continues as it has through the first three quarters, the district will be able to keep its budget in balance.
The numbers showed the district saved more than $30,000 on its line item for natural gas. And it picked up another $7,500 from its projected expenditure for electricity.
Mayor Richard Alcombright speaks to a crowded Congregation Beth Israel during the Spring Neighborlies award ceremony on Wednesday evening. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/John Durkan)
Coalition Delivers Spring Neighborlies at Award Ceremony
Northern Berkshire Community Coalition director Al Bashevkin told a packed Congregation Beth Israel that when big disasters happen, people try to help, whether by visiting the lands and lending a hand or donating money.
But on Wednesday, he wanted to recognize something different — being a good neighbor. Mayor Richard Alcombright presented the awards, which were announced by the coalition's Wendy Krom and Steve Green, a member of the coalition's board of directors. The following people and groups received a Spring Neighborly award.
Farmer’s Market Returns To Downtown Pittsfield Tomorrow
A new and improved farmer’s market will make its debut tomorrow in Pittsfield. The farmer’s market will take place every Saturday from 9am – 1pm in the First Street parking lot, across from the Commons. The farmer’s market is a collaborative effort between the City of Pittsfield, Downtown INC and the Alchemy Initiative. Alchemy Initiative Director, Jess Conzo, said the beefed up farmer’s market will include a long list of farm vendors, artisan vendors and even “live” music. Pittsfield residents may recall a farmer’s market that set up shop in the Park Square area of town but the new farmer’s market offers much more room for vendors and plenty of parking.
Pittsfield Man Pleads Not Guilty To Breaking And Entering Charges
A 22-year-old Pittsfield man was held on high bail at the Berkshire County House of Correction this week after pleading not guilty to a long list of charges in connection with incidents in Pittsfield and North Adams. James Mullen appeared before Berkshire Superior Court Judge C. Jeffrey Kinder and pled not guilty to 14 charges including five counts of larceny over $250 from a person 60 years of age or older. Other charges included breaking and entering in the daytime, larceny, receiving stolen property and others. The incidents are alleged to have occurred in Pittsfield and North Adams between August 3, 2012 and April 4, 2013. Judge Kinder ordered that he be held on $25,000 cash bail or $250,000 surety bail.
Pittsfield Getting A New Personnel Director
Pittsfield Mayor Dan Bianchi announced yesterday the appointment of
John DeAngelo as city’s new Personnel Director. The Mayor’s office said the appointment will be put before the City Council at their May 14th meeting. DeAngelo has been serving as Human Resources Director at the Kolburne School for the past 14 years and during the last 11 years, he was also responsible for employee relations. The Mayor’s office said that teamwork is one of DeAngelo’s strong points and that he is looking forward to working with employees in the City of Pittsfield.
Three Arrested On Drug Charges
Pittsfield police have arrested three people who they say were involved in an oxycodone trafficking operation. Arrested were 40-year-old Nisheen (NI-Sheen) Davis who gave both a Pittsfield address and a Bronx, NY address,
59-year-old Gerald Ramos of the Bronx, NY and 43-year-old Nathaniel Robinson of Queens, NY. All three were arraigned in Central Berkshire District Court this week and all three pled not guilty to the charges. The Berkshire Eagle reports that when arrested, police confiscated more than oxycodone pills, a gun and several thousand dollars in cash. All three will be back in court next month.
ElmsCollege Bringing BA Program To BerkshireCounty
The chance for BCC students to earn a bachelor's degree from Elms College just got a lot closer by about 40 miles.
Officials from Berkshire Community College and Elms signed an articulation agreement Wednesday that will bring Elms human services professors to Lee Middle and High School to teach Saturday courses.
Starting in September, students who graduate BCC can go on to earn their bachelor's degree in social services without leaving the Berkshires.
The off-site campus is the next step in a lengthy partnership the two colleges have had. Audrey Ringer, BCC human services professor, said the majority of her students who go on to bachelor programs, go to Elms. The two schools have worked collaboratively for the 16 years she has been there to align their programs.
Lieberman: Boston Bombings Could Have Been Stopped
WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman says failures by national security agencies tainted investigations into the Boston bombing plotters — and says the scheme could have been discovered beforehand.Lieberman testified Thursday at a House Homeland Security Committee hearing on the attacks. He says it would have been hard, but not impossible, for law enforcement to uncover the bombing plot before the Tsarnaev brothers allegedly set off two blasts that killed three people and injured more than 100 people last month.
Lieberman says that the failure to communicate vital information between agencies was a major flaw in government oversight.
The former lawmaker acknowledges the blizzard of information confronting national security agencies. He says officials often struggle to, quote, "separate the wheat from the chaff" in pinpointing threats.
Mass. Panel Reviewing Benefits To Bombing Suspects
BOSTON (AP) — A legislative committee has been meeting behind closed doors at the Statehouse to review whether the Boston Marathon bombing suspects improperly received public benefits.
Members of the House Post Audit and Oversight Committee met Thursday with interim commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance Stacey Monahan to discuss the benefits.
As she headed into the meeting, Monahan declined to say how much the family may have received in benefits. She said it was part of an ongoing investigation she's ordered into the case history.
She said as soon as that review was completed, she would share it with the committee.
The head of the committee has previously said the panel is reviewing more than 400 pages of documents collected from state agencies that may have provided benefits to the suspects or their families since 2002.
Mass. Trial Begins For Man Accused In Fatal Fire
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — Attorneys in the murder and arson trial of a Northampton man acknowledge there's no physical evidence or eyewitness testimony linking him to the crimes, but they say his own comments are key.
Twenty-eight-year-old Anthony Baye has pleaded not guilty to charges including arson and murder. He is accused of setting 15 fires on Dec. 27, 2009, including a house fire that killed 81-year-old Paul Yeskie Sr. and his son, 39-year-old Paul Yeskie Jr.
Prosecutor Brett Vottero said in his opening statement Thursday that Baye lied to police who stopped him twice in the area of the fires that night, and his comments show he was to blame.
Defense attorney David Hoose said Baye lied only to cover up drunken driving, and he isn't guilty. He said police were under pressure to arrest someone.
Mass. High Court Mulling Drug Lab Case Procedures
BOSTON (AP) — Justices of Massachusetts' highest court are deciding whether special magistrates who are dealing with of a flood of drug cases tainted by a state laboratory scandal may release convicts on bail before they're granted new trials.
Special court sessions began after authorities closed a state lab in Boston last summer.
That happened following allegations that former chemist Annie Dookhan faked drug test results and tampered with evidence. She has pleaded not guilty to charges including perjury and obstruction of justice.
The Essex County District Attorney's Office objects to letting convicts out on bail before a decision about whether those people will get new trials.
But the American Civil Liberties Union and the state's public defender agency say defendants deserve immediate relief.
The Supreme Judicial Court will rule within 130 days.
n:&*bkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) — The Environmental Protection Agency and other departments are expanding a program for restoring and improving urban waterways nationwide.
The program operates in seven locations. Officials said Friday they're adding the Grand River in Grand Rapids, Mich., the Middle Rio Grande in Albuquerque, N.M., and nine other sites.
New sites also include the Big River and Meramec River in the St. Louis area; the Delaware River in Philadelphia, Camden, N.J., Chester, Pa., and Wilmington, Del.; the Green-Duwamish River in Seattle; the Mystic River in metropolitan Boston; Martin Pena Canal in San Juan, Puerto Rico; the Middle Blue River in Kansas City; Passaic River in Newark, N.J.; Proctor Creek in Atlanta; and Lake Erie near Toledo, Ohio.
Existing sites are in D.C., Maryland, New York, California, Louisiana and Indiana.
PEOPLE-PSY-HARVARD
Korean pop sensation cracks jokes at Harvard
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (AP) — Dozens of screaming and shouting Harvard University students have welcomed South Korean pop star PSY for a conversation inside an ornate church dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in World War I.
PSY began addressing students and faculty by noting that his presence at the Ivy League school "is so weird." He recalled spending four years studying management at Boston University while marveling at Harvard from afar.
The pop star, whose real name is Park Jae-sang, also joked Thursday night that he's heard that he is the first person to make a speech at Harvard without a written script.
Harvard professor of Korean History Carter Eckert says the discussion is looking at PSY as a modern global digital culture phenomenon.
PSY cracked jokes throughout this speech and said he was very shocked as his "Gangnam Style" video went viral.
Thursday, May 09, 2013
The town's Affordable Housing Trust meets on Tuesday evening. Both the trust and committee heard the highlights of a housing needs study. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Stephen Dravis)
Housing Review Finds Need for Williamstown Elders
The consultant hired to assess Williamstown’s ,housing needs presented his final report on Tuesday night, and the problem is as bad as town officials thought — especially when it comes to meeting the needs of older residents.
"The nature of the senior need in Williamstown has changed over time," Montpelier, Vt.,-based consultant John Ryan said. "It is now, I would say, close to exclusively folks who own their home. Typically, they're single individuals, 75 and over, living on fixed incomes in a home that's increasingly difficult to maintain.
In other business Tuesday night, the Affordable Housing Committee agreed to spend about $6,300 to help pay Westfield engineering firm Tighe & Bond for further study of contaminated land at the town-owned site on Cole Avenue formerly occupied by Photech. The committee hopes to develop at least some of the 10-acre parcel if and when the soil contamination is remediated.
The Affordable Housing Committee also discussed a possible joint meeting with the town's Conservation Commission at the latter's regularly-scheduled May 23 meeting.
North Adams Man Pleads Guilty To Assault And Battery
A 29-year-old North Adams man pled guilty yesterday in Berkshire Superior Court to an assault charge. Shane Rohane appeared before Judge C. Jeffrey Kinder and pled guiilty to a single count of assault and battery on a person 60 years of age or older. Judge Kinder ordered that he serve 2 to 4 years in state prison. The charge stems from an altercation in North Adams on October 4, 2012 when Rohane beat up a 60 year old man. Two counts of assault by means of a dangerous weapon were dismissed at the request of the Commonwealth. The investigation was conducted by members of the North Adams Police Department.
Brush Fire In Adams
Adams firefighters had their hands full yesterday when they tackled a stubborn brush fire on East Road. The blaze took over 5 hours to extinguish and was located near some power lines on Burnett Farm. Fire officials locally and throughout the state have been battling brush fires due to the dry conditions caused by a lack of rain. The little rain some parts of the Berkshires received yesterday won’t help much and the fire danger remains high. The cause of yesterday’s East Road brush fire remains unknown.
NA School Committee To Address $20K In Overdue Meal Accounts
The North Adams School Committee is considering implementing a no-charge policy for student lunches following discussions on how to address a $20,460.47 in delinquent meal accounts.
During Tuesday's meeting, committee members and the administration discussed how to both collect money and not bring children into the issue. Mayor Richard J. Alcombright suggested bringing the students' parents or guardians to small claims court in order to collect money.
"I think people will act much differently from a phone call from a lawyer than a school lunch person or a principal," he said.
In related business, the committee voted an increase in school meal prices. Student lunch increased from $2.00 to $2.10 and student breakfast increased from $1.00 to $1.10. Adult breakfast increased from $1.75 to $2.00 and adult lunch increased from $2.75 to $3.00.
In other business, the committee approved 11 early dismissal days at the elementary and high school level for the 2013-2014 school year for professional development. The number is up from last year's request for nine, Montepare said, because of new mandated requirements including CPR certification.
Joe Avellone of Wellesly is running (Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com)Andy McKeever)
Bio-Tech Industry Leader Running For Governor
Gubernatorial candidate Joe Avellone says he has exactly the right skills needed to lead the state into a "new economy."
Avellone is the senior vice presiden
Friday, May 03, 2013
The Prudential Committee had hoped to have a land sale agreement ready for its annual meeting. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Stephen Dravis)
Williamstown Fire District Waiting on Lawyers for Land Buy
The Williamstown Fire District's efforts to relocate its station about a half mile are being held up by the inaction of parties 3,000 miles away.
The Prudential Committee, which oversees the district, met on Wednesday evening at the firehouse on Water Street. The three-member panel had hoped to be able to approve a purchase-and-sales agreement on a 3.7-acre Main Street parcel.
But committee member Edward Briggs shared the disappointing news that the estate's lawyers in California are not ready to submit a contract to the district for its approval.
Briggs said he heard back Wednesday evening that while the local attorneys are still optimistic, they had no progress to report from the West Coast other than to say they expected something "in a couple of days."
Selectmen OK Investigation Into Financial Discrepancies In Clarksburg
The Clarksburg Selectmen have given Chief of Police Michael Williams permission to investigate financial discrepancies in the town's accounts.
Town Administrator Thomas Webb said the town is investigating following a citizen's complaint. So far there has been no comment from Chief Williams.
The Board also finalized warrant articles for the Special Town Meeting and Annual Town Meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, May 29.
The selectmen also granted the minor league baseball team permission to use the field adjacent to Town Hall for practice, with the exception of Wednesday evenings.
St. Francis Pastor Claims Potential Sale Being Blocked By City Officials
According to the pastor of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish, Rev. William F. Cyr, the sale of St. Francis of Assisi Church and its rectory is being blocked by city officials.
In an open letter sent to parishioners last week the, Pastor stated that for the last three years, a developer associated with CVS Pharmacy has been interested in purchasing the 1.39-acre lot at the intersection of Union and Eagle streets. However, he said that each time a proposal has been submitted by the developer, it has been rejected by Mayor Alcombright. He added he was very frustrated and angry.
Alcombright confirmed that the city has been approached by Colebrook Realty and the diocese about the sale of the property on several occasions. He said the plan submitted by CVS in 2010 saved the church, but the offer was to give the church to the city -- something he could not agree with.
Auditor Suzanne Bump gathered supporters in the Berkshires on Thusday to tell them that she has every intention to run for re-election. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
State Auditor Tells Berkshire Supporters She'll Run Again
Suzanne Bump feels she has unfinished business in the auditor's office.
And while the election is still a year and a half away, Bump gathered supporters in the Berkshires on Thursday to tell them that she has every intention to run for re-election.
Bump is in the third year of her four-year term after being elected in a close race. Prior to that she was the secretary of labor for Gov. Deval Patrick.
Shortly after election, Bump made a splash when she launched an audit on the department she was taking over and later terminated 27 employees and reassigned 14 more because they were under qualified for the job.
Since then, she has continued to audit every department in state government and particularly dug into the the MassHealth system. There she found benefits being distributed to people who were not qualified, bills being duplicated and dentists performing unneeded tests.
Humane Race For Berkshire Humane Society Saturday
The Humane Race is becoming well-known as a pet-friendly event that draws hundreds of people and dogs to Spring Street in Williamstown. This year's race, a 5K fun run and one-mile walk, begins at 10 a.m. at 16 Water St. on Saturday with the finish line on Spring Street.
This year, the team of six organizers and roughly 50 volunteers are expecting nearly 400 people and 200 dogs -- or more. Since the beginning of the event, the Humane Race has raised more than $120,000 to help operate the Berkshire Humane Society's homeless pet shelter in Pittsfield.
One of the prizes is a photo session with premiere pet photographer Amanda Jones.
Berkshire Carousel, Lanesborough Eye Plan To Put Ride At LastonPark
With the town of Lanesborough's help, the Berkshire Carousel group wants to construct a facility at Laston Park to house the year-round amusement ride and amenities.
Later this spring, town meeting voters will be asked to approve a $500,000 loan toward the estimated $1.4 million cost to construct a permanent structure for the carousel ride at Laston Park along Route 7.
The borrowing is contingent on the carousel receiving a $500,000 grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, according to town officials.
Carousel organizers would have to raise the remaining $400,000 and also be responsible for repaying the loan. If all the funding is secured, the carousel could be operation in October.
Pittsfield Panel Endorses Revised City Charter
After seven months of deliberation and decision-making, the Pittsfield Charter Review Study Committee has endorsed the first major overhaul of the city charter in more than 80 years. The 11-member ad hoc committee on Wednesday unanimously approved a revised charter following a review process that began in late September. Peter Marchetti, committee member and former councilor at large, noted the new charter reflects municipal government in the 21st century.The committee will now forward its recommendation to Mayor Daniel L. Bianchi and the City Council. The goal is to have both those entities approve a final charter version in time for necessary review and approval by both the state Legislature and governor. Doing so would allow the revisions to be placed before city voters on the November ballot.
First Fridays Artswalk Event Today
This month's Artswalk begins at 5 p.m. today in Pittsfield, with more than 41 downtown businesses participating. A one-year anniversary party will take place at Spice Dragon on North Street from 8 to 10 p.m
Remains Of BostonMarathon Bombing Suspect Claimed
BOSTON (AP) — The body of Boston Marathon bombing suspect Tamerlan Tsarnaev has been claimed. Massachusetts Department of Public Safety spokesman Terrel Harris says a funeral home retained by Tsarnaev's family picked up his body Thursday. He has no more information.
Tsarnaev's widow in Rhode Island had wanted his side of the family to claim his body. His uncle in Maryland had said the family would claim it.
Tsarnaev died after a gunfight with authorities.
Police have said he ran out of ammunition before his younger brother dragged his body under a vehicle while fleeing the scene.
Brother Dzhokhar Tsarnaev faces a charge of using a weapon of mass destruction to kill.
Their mother says the allegations are lies.
Cambridge Mosque Leader Disavows Marathon Bombers
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (AP) — People who worship at the Cambridge mosque where the Boston Marathon bombing suspects prayed have held an interfaith service with community members during which a leader condemned the attacks as a "grotesque perversion of the teaching of our faith."
Anwar Kazmi, a member of the executive board of the Islamic Society of Boston which runs the mosque, effectively disavowed the bombing suspects during the interfaith service Thursday evening. He cited a warning from Mohammad that anyone whose actions make neighbors feel insecure is not a Muslim.
Kazmi was speaking after an estimated 300 people marched from the Cambridge City Hall to the mosque to pray for peace and declare their solidarity with worshippers there. Those who marched include residents as well as political, community and religious leaders.
GOP Senator Wants Info On Student In Boston Case
WASHINGTON (AP) — A Republican senator wants more information about how a student from Kazakhstan charged with helping cover up for one of the Boston Marathon bombing suspects was allowed to come into the country without a valid visa.
Iowa Republican Sen. Charles Grassley says in a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano that he wants to know what information Customs and Border Protection had about Azamat Tazhayakov when the student arrived in New York in January.
At the time Tazhayakov was not a student at the University of Massachusetts Darmouth and his student visa had been terminated. He was allowed into the U.S. anyway.
Tazhayakov and two other students were arrested Wednesday on federal charges of trying to cover up for bombing suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev.
Mass. Senate Backs Local Road And Bridge Funding
BOSTON (AP) — The state Senate has approved a bill that would provide $300 million to cities and towns for road and bridge projects, a $100 million increase over last year.
Municipal officials have been pressing lawmakers to approve the so-called Chapter 90 funds as the spring construction season begins.
The measure passed Thursday has also been approved by the House but needs a final vote in both chambers before going to Gov. Deval Patrick's desk.
Senate Republican Leader Bruce Tarr says he's concerned that the funding for cities and towns could yet fall victim to disagreements between the governor and lawmakers over the amount of new revenue contained in a broader transportation finance plan.
That bill, calling for $500 million in new taxes, is currently being negotiated by a House-Senate conference committee.
Senate Hopefuls Spar On Debates, Bin Laden Raid
BOSTON (AP) — The special U.S. Senate campaign between Republican Gabriel Gomez and Democrat Edward Markey is heating up just two days after the candidates won their respective party primaries.
Gomez is pressing Markey to agree to a series of three debates before the June 25 election. Markey says he plans to debate Gomez but his campaign has not yet announced specifics.The Democrat, meanwhile, is highlighting Gomez' ties to a political advocacy group that produced a video faulting President Barack Obama for taking too much credit for the raid two years ago that killed Osama bin Laden.
During an interview last year on MSNBC, Gomez credited Obama for giving the green light for the special operation to kill bin Laden, but defended the video that was released during last year's presidential campaign.
Group: 'Pledge' Worked In Curbing Outside Groups
BOSTON (AP) — The government watchdog group Common Cause Massachusetts is calling on U.S. Senate candidates Gabriel Gomez and Edward Markey to agree on a plan to limit the influence of outside spending in the campaign.
The group said a similar "People's Pledge" between Democrat Elizabeth Warren and Republican Scott Brown in last year's U.S. Senate race greatly reduced the amount of undisclosed cash spent on the campaign and the number of negative ads that would otherwise have been seen.
Common Cause released a report on Thursday that showed spending on outside groups totaled only 9 percent in the Warren-Brown race, while outside groups outspent candidates by an average 34 percent in three other competitive races studied in Virginia, Wisconsin and Ohio.
Gomez, a Republican, has rejected a call by Democrat Markey to sign a pledge limiting outside spending.
Thursday, May 02, 2013
The board met on Wednesday for the last time before the Monday's election, when two new members will be elected. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
Adams Considering Overturning Ban On Dogs In Cemeteries
The Adams Selectmen will consider reversing a bylaw that prohibits dogs from cemeteries. The town is working with the state-supported Mass In Motion program to create walking loops and access to Maple Street Cemetery would allow pedestrians a safer route.
In other business, Town Administrator Jonathan Butler said the town has met with engineers about the Memorial Middle School and the deterioration of that building was worse than town officials had previously thought. The cost analysis will be used to direct the town in negotiations with a sauce-making company and the Youth Center about short-term leases.
The Selectmen also agreed to host a meeting with downtown merchants to share information about the Berkshire Scenic Railway project.
Everyone's a Winner in Williamstown Races
It was an uneventful town election day on Tuesday in Williamstown, with all of the candidates on the ballot easily winning their non-races.
Jane Patton won a seat on the Board of Selectmen, which also will see the return of incumbent Ronald Turbin. Patton garnered 748 and Turbin accumulated 788. Blank entries in the selectmen's vote totaled 569, and five voters turned in ballots with write-in candidates.
One thousand, fifty-five voters took ballots in the town election, which was held in conjunction with the statewide primary for the special election to fill the U.S. Senate seat formerly held by Secretary of State John Kerry.
Hancock Election: Incumbents Re-Elected
Two incumbents have been re-elected to the School Committee in what was the only contested race in Tuesday's Hancock election.
Robert Smith and Melissa Leab were re-elected for three-year terms Selectman Art Williams was re-elected for a three-year term. Two open seats on the Board of Health were filled by incumbent Melanie Jackson and Peter Morin.
The under-construction science center at MassachusettsCollege of Liberal Arts made the list but not the massive library building project at WilliamsCollege. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
CountyPlanners Creating List of Economic Initiatives
The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission is working with the Comprehensive Economic Development Committee to find major projects that somehow got missed in Berkshire County . So the BRPC is asking private companies, towns, agencies, contractors and banks to tell them about upcoming plans.The full list will give projects exposure and be used by planners in other facets — such as for the MassWorks Grants on which BRPC comments. For example, the commission will be studying locations for passenger rail on the Housatonic Rail Line and would be able to consult that list to see what other developments are in the works to complement the location. BRPC staff has revamped the questionnaire so that it narrows the focus to get a better sense of the stage of development, which will help even out a problem the committee had in 2011 when some projects were submitted with little information while others had a lot.
NA: Chili Cook Off To Benefit Leadership Conference Nominees
A chili cook off will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday at the American Legion to support Isabel Lescarbeau and Erin Marceau, students at Sullivan School, who have been nominated for the Junior National Young Leadership Conference to be held in Washington, D.C., this summer.
The evening will also include a 50/50 raffle, basket raffle, and music. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children.
The conference will include visits to the National Museum of American History, the Lincoln Memorial, a sleepover at the Maryland Science Center, and workshops on social advocacy topics.
Proceeds will be used toward the conference tuition and travel expenses.
To make a donation, mail checks payable to Isabel Lescarbeau or Erin Marceau, to 125 East Quincy St., North Adams MA 01247.
Council President Kevin Sherman being sworn in as council president. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com)
Pittsfield's Council President Opts Out Of Re-Election Bid
Pittsfield Council President Kevin Sherman will not be running for reelection.
Sherman released a statement on Wednesday saying he will serve out the remainder of his term but will not return to the council after the next election. Sherman has been a councilor at large for the last six years and was elected president last year.
The MPO voted to send the updated plan out for public comment.Cost Increase Likely to Delay Dalton Road Project (Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com)Andy McKeever)
Cost Increase Likely to Delay Dalton Road Project
Pittsfield Planning officials are recommending Dalton hold off on the Housatonic Street project for another three years after estimated costs jumped by $2 million.
Instead, the money set aside for the Dalton project would to go Lee.
The Metropolitan Planning Organization, a subset of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission that prioritizes local construction projects for the state, moved to replace the funds on Tuesday.
The Lee project will reconstruct two miles of Tyringham Road — a project that has been fully designed for the last year and wait for funding.
The amended plan now goes to public comment before facing ultimate approval.
Pittsfield Firefighters Squelch 2-Acre Brush Fire Near Velma Avenue Neighborhood
A two-acre brush fire off Industrial Drive in Pittsfield Wednesday afternoon delayed a train on the Housatonic Railroad and came dangerously close to a residential area, according to fire officials. The cause is still under investigation.
The fire was reported around 2:30 p.m., when the smoke was seen from the fire department. The fire started in a heavily wooded area between Industrial Drive and Velma Avenue. The fire was brought under control in about an hour.
Lawyers: 2 Didn't Know Of Boston Attack Plans
BOSTON (AP) — Lawyers for two men charged with conspiring to obstruct justice in the Boston bombing case say their clients had no idea the attack was being planned.
The lawyers for Azamat Tazhayakov and Dias Kadyrbayev held a brief news conference Wednesday after their clients' initial court appearance.
Attorneys Robert Stahl and Harlan Protass say their clients were just as shocked as everyone else and didn't have anything to do with the attack.
They are accused of removing a backpack containing hollowed-out fireworks from suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev's dorm room three days after the attack to keep him from getting into trouble.
A third man, Robel Phillipos, is charged with making false statements to federal investigators. He awaits a court appearance.
Mass. Child Abuse Suspect Faces More Charges
SALEM, Mass. (AP) — A Wakefield man facing charges in Middlesex County for allegedly sexually abusing children at his wife's day care is facing new allegations in Essex County.
John Burbine was arraigned Wednesday in Salem Superior Court on one count of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14.
Prosecutors say the alleged assaults occurred between 1990 and 1994 in Saugus starting when the victim was 5 years old. Prosecutors say that person came forward after publicity surrounding the 49-year-old Burbine's arrest in Middlesex County.
Prosecutors allege that between August 2010 and August 2012, Burbine molested children ranging from 8 days to 3 1/2 years old at his wife's day care, recording the assaults. Authorities say the day care didn't have a state license.
Burbine has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and is held on $1 million bail.
MGM To Sign Casino Deal With Mass.City
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno says he's confident the city will have the best casino proposal to offer in the western Massachusetts region.
City officials on Wednesday formally signed a host community agreement with MGM Resorts International. Sarno announced on Tuesday that he had selected MGM over a competing proposal from Penn National Gaming.
The agreement calls for the company to make annual payments to Springfield of more than $25 million if the casino is built. MGM has proposed an approximately $800 million casino on 14.5 acres of land in the city's South End.
The agreement must now win approval from the city council and from Springfield voters before it can be formally submitted to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.
Mohegan Sun and Hard Rock International have also proposed casinos in the western region.
Mass. US Senate Hopefuls Spar Over Spending Pledge
BOSTON (AP) — Republican U.S. Senate hopeful Gabriel Gomez and his Democratic rival Edward Markey are wasting little time lobbing attacks at each other after securing their party's nominations.
Gomez quickly rejected calls by Markey to sign a pledge to limit spending by outside groups on television, radio and Internet ads during the special election campaign.
Gomez said Markey has spent decades in Congress building a war chest of outside special-interest money and benefited from outside groups during the primary.
Markey warned that without a pledge, Republican-aligned groups will pour millions into the race in the hopes of winning back a seat in the Senate.
Gomez spent the morning greeting commuters in South Boston while Markey joined with other Democrats, including primary rival Stephen Lynch at a unity breakfast.
The special election is June 25.
Lawmakers To Meet On Tax Bill For Transportation
BOSTON (AP) — Beacon Hill lawmakers are getting back to work on a plan to raise $500 million in new taxes to help fix and modernize the state's transportation system.
House and Senate negotiators are scheduled to meet on Thursday to work out differences between versions of the bill that were passed by both chambers earlier in the month.
Gov. Deval Patrick called the original version of the bill proposed by legislative leaders a "fiscal shell game," without enough revenue to address the state's long-term transportation needs. Patrick said a later Senate version was a step forward, but stopped short of saying whether he'd sign it into law.
Patrick had asked for nearly $2 billion in new taxes for transportation and education.
The Legislature's plan calls for hikes in gasoline and cigarette taxes.
Mass. Sets New Goal For Solar Power
BOSTON (AP) — Gov. Deval Patrick's administration has set a new goal for solar energy installations in Massachusetts after reaching its initial target four years early.
Patrick said the state's new goal will be 1,600 megawatts of solar energy by the year 2020. That would generate enough electricity to power 240,000 homes per year and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by the equivalent of 166,000 cars.
The governor and other state officials said on Wednesday that with the help of solar energy incentives offered by the state, Massachusetts had already reached a goal of installing 250 megawatts of solar power by 2017. That is enough to power for 37,000 homes. Officials also cited a report from the Solar Energy Industries Association that residential solar electricity prices fell 28 percent in Massachusetts last year.
Wednesday, May 01, 2013
Supporters, including Councilors Jennifer Breen and Lisa Blackmer, were at the polls at St. Elizabeth's. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels, John Durkan & Stephen Dravis)
Conte School Project Wins Narrow Victory in North Adams
North Adams Voters gave the Conte School project a thumbs up in a squeaker vote on Tuesday, allowing the city to move ahead with its plans to renovate the historic school.
The unofficial tally had the vote at 1,386 to 1,250, a difference of only 136 votes.
The outcome of Ward 4 had been in some doubt after opponents had talked up the possibility that voting down Conte would put Greylock Elementary School in line for renovation. Ward 4 was the only ward to defeat the project, 362-321, a difference of 41 votes. The City Council had approved bonding for the $29.7 million project but a citizens petition that garnered more than 1,300 signatures put it on the ballot. It's been hard to get a handle on just exactly how the voters have felt about the project. There have been fervent proponents, reluctant supporters who thought it was the best deal the city could get, and outright opponents who listed a wide range reasons (some contradictory) to reject the school.
Edward Markey speaking with voters in Pittsfield earlier this year (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Andy McKeever)
Markey, Gomez Reel In U.S. Senate Campaign Nominations
Businessman and former Navy SEAL Gabriel Gomez and U.S. Rep. Edward Markey will face off in the special election for U.S. Senate.
The two men — one a veteran congressman, the a other newcomer to the political scene — are vying for the unexpired term of John Kerry, who was appointed U.S. secretary of state in January.
Markey defeated U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch by a 57 percent to 43 percent margin. Gomez defeated former U.S. Attorney Michael Sullivan and state Rep. Daniel Winslow with 50 percent of the vote compared to 36 percent to 13 percent, respectively.
Markey had even stronger support in the Berkshires, where he reeled in 76 percent of the vote. Gomez also had a strong showing with 56 percent of the Berkshire vote.
The Housing Authority approved an additional $20,955 grant for the Flood House, which will likely fund Americans with Disabilities Act related issues. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/John Durkan)
North Adams Housing Agency Approves More Flood House Funding
The North Adams Housing Authority approved an additional $20,955 — $66,304 over the next three years — in funding for the Flood House at Monday's meeting, but the site's future is still uncertain.
The funding, which came from the state Department of Housing and Community Development, will likely go to ADA compliance, because the DHCD dictates the spending, unlike the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funding.
Another possibility is the Housing Authority leasing to a nonprofit to provide a similar housing service and sublease to the tenants.
Chairman James Canavan and Hohn agreed selling the Flood House is their ideal situation, for which they would need permission. In addition, Canavan said Mayor Richard Alcombright told him they need to execute the bidding process carefully, making sure to give every nonprofit a chance.
North Adams Employee Charged With Not Reporting Diesel Spill
A North Adams municipal employee is facing criminal charges related to an October 2012 diesel spill in which fuel leaked into the Hoosic River.
Glenn Robert, 63, of North Adams, pleaded not guilty on Monday in Berkshire Superior Court to three charges: violation of the notification requirement of a release or threat of release of oil or hazardous waste, illegal disposal of hazardous waste, and discharging a pollutant into the waters of the commonwealth.
He was released on his own recognizance by Judge Daniel A. Ford and is expected back in court in July for a pretrial hearing.
The city will get more than expected in Community Development Block Grant funds this year, but diminishing amounts mean reductions in staffing in the Community Development office. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/Joe Durwin)
Pittsfield Anticipates Increased Community Block Grants
After three consecutive years of reductions in local Community Development Block Grant funding, what was at first expected to be a further cut because of the federal sequestration may now amount to a small increase in the coming fiscal year.While the city had been told early this year to expect as much as a 10 percent cut in its CDBG allotment, which comes from the federal Department of Housing and Development (HUD), it now expects around $1.16 million, which combined with program income brings the total budget to $1,673,883. The change comes following a determination that HUD will be able to utilize $300 million in disaster funding to augment its community building allocations this year.
Ticks Are On The Move
Now that spring has finally arrived state health and agriculture officials are warning pet owners, and anyone who spends time outside, to be on the look out for ticks. The number of reported cases of Lyme Disease has been on the steady rise over the past few years.
A State Entomologist says even though spring had a late start this year he is already hearing pet owners, gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts who are finding the tiny insects on their bodies, clothes and pets.
Northern Berkshire Police To Conduct Compliance Checks
For the next one to three months members of the Adams, North Adams, and Williamstown police departments will conduct compliance checks at all licensed alcohol outlets to determine if any are illegally selling alcohol to those under 21.For more information, visit www.nbccoalition.org.
Festival co-Chairman Don Quinn Kelley, left, Ivan Newton of the Samuel Harrison Society and Mary McGinnis and Meghan Whilden of the city of Pittsfield at the Lift Ev'ry Voice announcement.Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com/ Tammy Daniels)
African-American Heritage Celebrated Countywide This Summer
North Adams Downstreet Arts' first Thursday in June this year coincides with the launch of the biennial countywide celebration of African-American heritage in Berkshire County. Lift Ev'ry Voice — a festival of artistic endeavors and historical events — brings a World Music Dance Party to Main Street and a reading of civil rights activist Frederick Douglass' Fourth of July Address on June 20.
The festival was founded three years ago as a way to give voice to a significant element of the county's history and culture that ranges from Elizabeth "Mumbet" Freeman who sued for her liberty to the Rev. Samuel Harrison of the famed 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry to historian and civil rights activist W.E.B. DuBois to astronaut Stephanie Wilson.
Pittsfield Man Sentenced To 9 Months In Jail
A 50-year-old city man who was caught shooting heroin into his IV line while he was a patient at Berkshire Medical Center was sentenced to nine months in jail.
In Central Berkshire District Court on Tuesday, Kenneth Rathbun pleaded guilty to misdemeanor possession of heroin as well as larceny over $250 from an earlier shoplifting case.Rathbun will serve his sentence at the Berkshire County Jail & House of Corrections. Rathbun was given 35 days credit for the time he has served awaiting the outcome of the case. The second case Rathbun pleaded to was from December 2012 and involved shoplifting from a local Walmart.
New Steakhouse Restaurant Plans Opening On Winter Street
The Pittsfield Licensing Board cleared the way Monday for the opening of a new restaurant at the former Winter Street location of Mazzeo's Ristorante, which moved to South Street. The board unanimously approved the all-alcohol restaurant license for the 7 Winter Grille, which is expected to feature steakhouse fare. The hours of operation will be from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week.
MGM To Sign Casino Deal With Mass.City
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno says he's confident the city will have the best casino proposal to offer in the western Massachusetts region.
City officials on Wednesday plan to formally sign a host community agreement with MGM Resorts International. Sarno announced on Tuesday that he had selected MGM over a competing proposal from Penn National Gaming.
The agreement calls for the company to make annual payments to Springfield of more than $25 million if the casino is built. MGM has proposed an approximately $800 million casino on 14.5 acres of land in the city's South End.
The agreement must now win approval from the city council and from Springfield voters before it can be formally submitted to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.
Mohegan Sun and Hard Rock International have also proposed casinos in the western region.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Voters will decide the fate of the ConteSchool on Tuesday. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Story and Photo Courtesy of Media Partner Berkshires.com)
North Adams to Vote on Conte Renovation Project
North Adams voters will go to the polls on Tuesday to determine the fate of the Conte School project.
The vote will be up or down to authorize total borrowing of $29.7 million, $6.5 million for which the city will be responsible. The split is 80 percent state, 20 percent city. The state grant cannot be used for any thing other than the Conte renovation.
Should the vote fail, the city is expected to have to resubmit another statement of interest next year. According to the Massachusetts School Building Authority guidelines, "the MSBA cannot indefinitely tie up funds allocated for a project that lacks local support."
Voting will be from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
St. Elizabeth's Parish Center: Wards 1, 2, 3 & 5
Greylock School: Ward 4
Voters should note that the state primary is being held the same day so the polling setup will be for two elections.
MCLA Students Unveil ‘Eagle Street Rising' Project
A project by 16 Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts students on Saturday showed city residents how Eagle Street could be revitalized into a "better block."
Eagle Street Rising, organized by students in Professor Elena Traister's Green Living Seminar, used ideas from the Better Block Project, a group which provides cities around the country with tools to help redevelop communities and revitalize business districts.
One of the most popular features of the event were several "parklets" along the street, which turned parking spots into an extension of the sidewalk.
Plane Crashes In HoosickFalls; Pilot In Critical Condition
A single engine airplane crashed at the western edge of the Hoosick Falls Country Club Sunday afternoon, approximately 100 yards from homes and people enjoying an afternoon of golf.
Hoosick Falls Police Chief Robert Ashe said the pilot of the craft, Stanton King, of Bunker Hill Road in Valley Falls, N.Y., suffered injuries to his head and neck and was taken to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington by the Cambridge Valley Rescue Squad.
SVMC Spokesman Kevin Robinson said King was transferred from the hospital to another facility in critical condition.
The crash was reported shortly before 1 p.m. Ashe said King had flown the airplane out of Cambridge.
Dakota Steakhouse In Pittsfield Closes
The Dakota Steakhouse restaurant on South Street, one of Berkshire County's most popular restaurants, has closed because its parent company was unable to "structure payment terms on historic tax debt" and suffered "economic pressures arising from cash seizures."
In a written statement issued Monday, the eatery's San Diego-based owner, called "continued operations unsustainable."
The Pittsfield Dakota, the last of a small chain of steakhouses in Vermont, New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts, closed Sunday night following dinner service. The restaurant employed about 50 people.
Pittsfield Police Search Hit And Run Vehicle
Police are looking for a green Jeep Grand Cherokee in connection with a hit-and-run accident on Sunday afternoon.
The collision with a motorcycle took place around 4:30 p.m. at the corner of Linden and John streets.
The driver of the motorcycle, Brad Humphrey, 58, of Stephentown, N.Y., was struck by the Jeep Grand Cherokee and seriously injured. The driver of the Jeep sped away.
Police are looking for a late ‘90s or early 2000s Jeep Grand Cherokee that's missing its rear bumper and a rear taillight.
U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, Mayor Daniel Bianchi and Fire Chief Robert Czerwinski announced the grant on Monday. (Courtesy of Media Partner iBerkshires.com)Andy McKeever)
U.S. Rep. Neal Announces Grant For Pittsfield Fire Department
The Pittsfield Fire Department will be purchasing 28 new air packs with the help of a $132,300 federal grant. The grant announcement was made by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and Fire Chief Robert Czerwinski Monday. The airpacks will meet National Fire Protection Association standards and replace ones dating back to 1997. The city is putting $14,700 toward the purchases, which will be ordered in July and expected to stock every truck. The air packs are critical for firefighters entering burning buildings. Neal said cities often can't upgrade the expensive equipment on their own so the federal government's support is crucial.
Mass. Voters To Decide US Senate Primary Winners
BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts voters are heading to the polls to decide which Republican and Democratic candidates will win their party primaries and go on to run in the state's second special U.S. Senate election in four years.
The race to fill the seat formerly held by Secretary of State John Kerry has been overshadowed by the Boston Marathon bombings. A light turnout is expected Tuesday.
The Republican candidates include former Navy SEAL Gabriel Gomez, former U.S. Attorney Michael Sullivan and state Rep. Daniel Winslow.
The Democratic primary is pitting congressmen Edward Markey and Stephen Lynch against each other.
A win would help Senate Democrats maintain a caucus edge of 55-45 as they press forward on issues including immigration.
All five candidates are planning separate campaign night parties.
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Springfield Mayor To Announce Casino Plans
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno is set to announce the city's deal or deals for a casino community host agreement.
The announcement set for Tuesday morning is the first step toward a local referendum on which casino application to support.
Springfield has been in talks with MGM Resorts International and Penn National Gaming, each of which has proposed $800 million projects. MGM has a plan to build in the South End, and Penn National in the North End.
The state's casino law allows the state gambling commission to award one license for western Massachusetts. Besides Springfield, casinos have been proposed in Palmer by Mohegan Sun, and in West Springfield by Hard Rock International.
The gambling law also provides for one casino license in east
