Letter: Get Information About Dangers of Youth Vaping

To the Editor:

The start of the school year and new routines brings new worries about teen vaping. These concerns are important, especially now, because smoking and vaping may put people at higher risk of complications from COVID-19.

One in three Massachusetts teens vape and talking with young people about the dangers of vaping can make a difference. Learn more and watch videos at GetOutraged.org, part of a public information campaign from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Get Outraged! aims to spread the word that vaping products contain nicotine, can damage a teen's developing brain, and are addictive. The campaign also shares tips on talking with kids about vaping and resources to help them quit.

Get Outraged! complements "Facts. No Filters." a campaign with videos and information about vaping for youth at mass.gov/vaping by the Department of Public Health in collaboration with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

In addition, handouts about vaping and quit resource cards for youth are available free of charge at the Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse.

For more information and to help you educate young people about vaping, contact Joyce Brewer at the Berkshire Tobacco-Free Community Partnership, jbrewer@berkshireahec.org
 

Joyce Brewer
Dalton, Mass.

Joyce Brewer is the program manager for the Berkshire Tobacco Free Community Partnership of Berkshire AHEC.

Weekend Outlook: Art Week, Farmers' Markets, Pancake Breakfasts

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
01:09PM / Thursday, May 14, 2026

Despite the chilly weather, we know that summer is on the way with the start of the local farmers' markets. Saturday is the first outdoor markets for North Adams and Williamstown and others will be added as the month continues. Look for our listings each week.  

Editor's Picks

Art Week Berkshires
Various times and venues

The Berkshires celebrates the arts during the sixth annual Art Week with exhibitions, open studios, presentations and events starting Friday.

 

Find the full calendar of events here. 

 

North Adams Farmer's Market  

Main Street

Time: Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

The south side of Main Street from American Legion Drive will be closed to make room for the city's weekly farmers market, which will kick off this Saturday. Explore downtown North Adams and discover local businesses and fresh produce from local farms. More information here. 

 

Pittsfield Farmer's Market

Pittsfield Common

Time: 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.