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Ruberto, Bianchi Spar in 'Pub' Debate

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
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Dan Valenti introduces the candidates at the PCTV studio on Thursday. The audio is below.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Mayoral candidates James M. Ruberto and Daniel Bianchi traded jabs for an hour Thursday afternoon in live match on Pittsfield Community Television.

The meet was the idea of commentator and writer Dan Valenti, who wanted to take the candidates out of a structured forum for a face-to-face conversation as if they'd sat down together discuss the issues at Patrick's Pub.

With but a slight push from Valenti, incumbent Ruberto and challenger Bianchi traded blows over crime statistics, campaign smears and financial acuity.

We'll have more on the story later, but for now you can hear the conversation for yourself.

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Summer Wrapping Up for Pittsfield, Berkshire Students

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Students in Pittsfield and beyond are enjoying their last days of summer before classes begin. 

Most Berkshire County teachers return to work this month, and students follow in late August and early September. 

For Pittsfield Public Schools, staff returns on Aug. 26 and students' first day is Aug. 31; pre-kindergarten and kindergarten begin school on Sept. 2. 

Labor Day is on Monday, Sept. 7. 

"The summer is pretty much done, and we will be ready and excited to open the doors in about two and a half weeks,” Superintendent Latifah Phillips told the School Committee on Wednesday. 

Phillips is returning this year as the permanent superintendent.  She was appointed the interim superintendent last spring, and the School Committee voted to hire her permanently in June

This year also brings the middle school restructuring, moving fifth grade to the middle school level, and the retirement of Morningside Community School. 

Welcome night for Reid Middle School students new to the building is on Aug. 18 at 6 p.m.; Herberg will have a sixth-grade welcome night at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 25, and at the same time on Aug. 26 for fifth grade. 

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