Election 2009: Bianchi Hosts Small Business Forum

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Mayoral candidate Daniel Bianchi will be hosting an open forum and listening session on small business to be held at the GE Athletic Association on Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 5:30 p.m.

The forum is designed for members of the business community and the community at large to share ideas, concepts, and concerns relating to their business and the process of doing business in the city. Bianchi, a current city councilor, is soliciting comments and discussion that may help and improve Pittsfield's economic development. The session will provide an opportunity to discuss the issues facing many of Pittsfield's small businesses.

"Small businesses are the backbone of the city of Pittsfield. Individually, they may offer a few jobs, or 40 to 50 jobs, but collectively, hundreds of families rely on the successful operation of small businesses," said Bianchi.

"It is important that the city of Pittsfield be aware and responsive to the needs of small businesses, making it easier for them to operate and grow. We should be encouraging existing small businesses and helping to facilitate their growth as well as attracting new businesses."

"Existing small businesses in the community deserve an equal opportunity for local government support. Creating an equitable, supportive atmosphere for existing business can be the foundation for new business expansion."

Light refreshments will be provided. Members of the business community are encouraged to attend. For more information, call the campaign office at 413-442-2555 or Bianchi's home at 413-443-0180.
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Possible Measles Exposure at Boston, Logan

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed Wednesday that an out-of-state adult visitor who spent time in Boston and Westborough earlier this month was diagnosed with measles and was present in a number of locations.
 
This could have resulted in other people being exposed to measles virus.
 
The visitor arrived at Logan International Airport on American Airlines flight 2384 from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, on Dec. 11 at 2:39 p.m. They stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough in Westborough and departed the state on Dec. 12 via Logan at 9:19 p.m. on JetBlue flight 117 to Las Vegas.
 
DPH is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local partners to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to measles from this individual.
 
"Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease, which has increased significantly in the United States because of the unfortunate decrease in vaccination rates. It is also a preventable disease," said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein. "This current situation serves as an important reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting our communities. While Massachusetts has not had a measles case this year, 2025 saw the highest number of nationwide cases in more than a decade — nearly 2,000 in 44 jurisdictions, and sadly, three deaths. 
 
"Fifteen years ago, measles had been considered eliminated in the United States, but that tremendous progress is at risk. Vaccines are one of the most important public health interventions ever — they are safe, effective, and lifesaving."
 
Measles is very contagious. However, the risk to most people in Massachusetts is low because the vaccination rate in the state is high. People who are not immune and visited any of the locations on the following dates and times may be at risk for developing measles.
 
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