Tri-Town Health Board Bans Tobacco Sales In Pharmacies

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LEE, Mass. — Tri-Town Health Department Director James J. Wilusz announced at a public hearing Monday that the Tri-Town Board of Health, which represents Lee, Lenox and Stockbridge, amended its local tobacco regulations.
 
In regards to the local regulation, "Restricting the Sale of Tobacco Products and Nicotine Delivery Products," pharmacies will not be allowed to sell tobacco products starting on July 1.
 
"It is illogical that a health care institution that promotes health and wellness, offers medical advice, and administers vaccinations to sell tobacco products and it is a direct conflict of interest of what they are trying to promote," Wilusz said.
 
The Board also banned tobacco sales in educational institutions, indoor e-cigarette use, outdoor smoking where food is served, and the sale of rolling machines.
 
Retailers are also now required to to post a cessation hotline number sign as well.
 
All regulations are effective July 1.

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Multiple Departments Respond to Lanesborough Structure Fire

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

LANESBOROUGH, Mass. — Multiple fire departments responded to a structure fire off Narragansett Avenue on Wednesday afternoon. 

The Fire Department received a call from the owner of 6 Bangor St. reporting a smoke and flames at around 1:44 p.m.

Firefighters arriving on scene reported heavy smoke emanating from the the 1940s single-family ranch home in the thickly settle neighborhood.

The blaze was brought under control in less than an hour and there were no civilian or firefighter injuries. 

"The homeowner was outside doing some work, evidently, opened the door when she came back in the house, and there were flames and smoke, so she backed out and called us, and that's all we know right now," Deputy Fire Chief Glen Storie said around 2:35 p.m. 

The fire was out at that time, and first responders observed "quite a bit of damage" to the home. The cause is still under investigation. 

Lanesborough, Cheshire, and Pittsfield departments responded to the scene, and Hancock covered the station during the call. 

"The first crew in knocked the fire right down with the first engine," Storie said. 

Smoke could be seen coming from the back of the home. Part of Narragansett Avenue and Bangor Avenue were blocked off while firefighters battled the blaze. 

 

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