NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Police Department oversaw what could only be described as a "steal" on Saturday morning.
The department auctioned off nearly 100 items, mostly bicycles, at the Armory for prices that rarely bumped past $5.
Auctioneer Roy Burdick of the town of Florida swiftly pushed through a listing of adult and children's bicycles that included Rands, Huffys and Schwinns. A practically new Diamondback worth hundreds went for around $50 but most went for a couple bucks.
A number of other items like scooters, kayaks, jewelry and small appliances were also sold off.
The department's Mary Ann King said the inventory came from lost and found and evidence. Most had been in police custody for a couple years. The last auction had been in April 2015.
"Some of these bikes are new," she said. "I don't understand why people don't come looking for their bikes."
A few dozen people gathered at the back of the Armory for the auction, which lasted about an hour. A couple dozen bikes failed to find owners and were being sold off as a lot. King bought up a few for $1 apiece to give to the bike group headed by Amanda Chilson so they could be refurbished and donated to children.
The money raised from the auction goes to the city to be used by the Police Department for community events.
"It helps us fund things like National Night Out," King said.
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Northern Berkshire Celebrates Spirit of Caring Award Recipients
By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
NBUW Executive Director Patti Messina recognizes two 'dynamic' women retiring this year: Janice Broderick and Christine MacBeth.
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Northern Berkshire United Way on Thursday saluted members of the community who have stepped beyond their roles to help and support others.
Among them was state Rep. John Barrett III, former longtime mayor of North Adams, who was recognized not only for his efforts on behalf of the city for so many years but a "softer side" not always apparent.
The celebration was NBUW's sixth annual Spirit of Caring Awards, held at Norad Mill and attended by its member agencies, sponsors and community members. The room was packed at 3 West for the presentations of the Spirit of the Future Award to Officer Stephanie Mirante, the newly named Steve Green Spirit of Community Award to Wild Oats and the Al Nelson Spirit of Caring Award to Barrett. Also recognized was Adams Heating & Plumbing for campaign of the year. Barrett also provided a proclamation from the House to his fellow recipients.
Executive Director Patti Messina first wanted to recognize two women who are retiring after years of serving the community: Janice Broderick of the Elizabeth Freeman Center and Christine Macbeth, president and CEO of the Brien Center.
"They leave behind a legacy of dedication, commitment and hard work to this community," she said. "We salute you and thank you for your accomplishments."
Sharon DeMyer-Nemser and Ellen Sutherland, both members of the board of directors, presented Barrett, elected to the House in 2017, with the award.
"Although John really needs no introduction, we would like to take a moment to review John's past and storied history in our community," said DeMyer-Nemser, ticking off accomplishments including fighting for the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and convincing political leaders that arts and culture are vital components in building a strong creative economy in the Berkshires during his 26 years as mayor and representing North Berkshire on Beacon Hill.
The Northern Berkshire United Way on Thursday saluted members of the community who have stepped beyond their roles to help and support others. click for more
The closure was announced on the store's Facebook page late Sunday night, where it immediately drew comments of remembrance and well-wishing.
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Spring arriving in all its raucous and deliberate awakening is heralded by a symphony of vanguard spring peepers, hyla crucifer, that transform the cold and drear into a circus of vivacious trilling. click for more