BMC Offering Diabetes Education Classes

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Diabetes Education Program at Berkshire Medical Center is offering classes in June and July for those with diabetes on a wide range of issues.

There are four classes scheduled on consecutive Tuesdays in June, from June 5 to June 26, each running from 6 to 8 p.m. at the BHS Diabetes Education Program offices at 510 North St. The July classes are held on consecutive Wednesdays, from July 11 to Aug. 1 from 1 to 3 p.m., also at 510 North St.

Advance registration and qualification is required for either series of classes. Register in the Diabetes Education Program by calling 413-395-7942 or by clicking on the Calendar link at www.berkshirehealthsystems.org. Interested individuals should enroll as soon as possible.

Class topics include: an overview of diabetes; achieving goals; blood glucose monitoring; pattern management; acute complications from the disease; high and low blood sugar; sick day management; nutritional management; meal planning; carbohydrate counting; artificial sweeteners; reading food labels; physical activity; medications and additional medications that may be recommended for diabetes management; chronic complications and their prevention and treatment; foot care; links between heart disease, stroke and diabetes; community resources; diabetes health; goal setting and problem solving; psychosocial adjustments; stress; and depression.

The classes are open to anyone age 18 and over with diabetes, and the cost is covered by most insurance programs. Call 413-395-7942 for more information and to enroll.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Taconic High Names Top Students of the Class of 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Taconic High School Principal Matthew Bishop has announced the valedictorian and salutatorian of the class of 2026. 
 
They will speak during the graduation ceremony on Friday, June 12, at 4 p.m at Tanglewood in Lenox. 
 
Gavin O'Donnell, son of Kevin and Colleen O'Donnell of Pittsfield, has been named valedictorian with a grade average of 103. Hunter Bentz, son of Heidi Bentz of Pittsfield, has been named salutatorian with a grade average of 102.4.
 
Throughout his high school career, O'Donnell has exemplified the values of leadership, commitment, and excellence that define the Taconic community. He achieved high honors all four years and made significant contributions to both the school and the wider community. He was an active member of the Link Crew, Green and Gold, and Class Council, just to name a few of his activities. 
 
A dedicated athlete, O'Donnell played soccer and baseball all four years and was named captain of the varsity soccer and baseball teams both junior and senior years. His commitment to service extended beyond athletics, as he volunteered with Unified Games and was a math tutor at Taconic. He has also been an active part of Pittsfield Soccer Club, where he has helped
referee youth soccer games and assisted in getting the fields ready for game days.
 
He has earned several awards, including being a member of the National Honor Society,  the John and Abigail Adams Award, and being an AP Scholar and an AP Capstone Graduate. 
 
O'Donnell plans to pursue a degree in finance at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., where he will continue to play baseball and hopes to excel as a student. 
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