PITTSFIELD, Mass. — City and law enforcement officials are urging local seniors to be vigilant with COVID-19 Vaccination Buddy System.
The state's COVID-19 vaccination buddy system, an initiative meant to increase participation among seniors 75 and older in mass vaccination clinics by having an accompanying "caregiver" receive one as well, has resulted in an alarming increase in direct solicitation and advertising to seniors from individuals seeking to get vaccinated.
Following the buddy system's official implementation on Thursday, Feb. 11, throughout the state, online sites such as Craigslist are filled with ads targeting seniors with offers of payment to serve as their caregivers to take them to their vaccine appointments.
"This is deeply disturbing in so many ways. I want to remind our seniors that there are legitimate and available resources on hand to help them if they need assistance," said Mayor Linda Tyer. "The City of Pittsfield is continuing to explore additional ways to support and address the needs of our seniors who may have challenges getting to the vaccination clinics, but for now, I encourage any senior who has questions to call the local Council on Aging for guidance and assistance."
Chief Michael Wynn, of the Pittsfield Police Department, said that these solicitations may also provide a window for other deceptive behavior.
"By communicating with these individuals, seniors may be opening themselves up to additional fraudulent activity," Wynn said. "We know that once an elder is victimized to this kind of fraud, it's not just one trip to the well for the offender."
James Clark, executive director of the Pittsfield Council on Aging, said the council is ready to help seniors navigate through this process. To date, the council has completed more than 1,000 reservations for dose 1 and 2 of the vaccine for those 75 and older.
"If they have any questions or are in doubt, we want them to call us. We are in constant communication with the Berkshire Vaccine Team and we can assist them," he said.
As a reminder:
Those 75 and older who plan to attend a vaccination clinic by way of the vaccination buddy system, please only bring a caregiver or family member.
Do not make contact with individuals advertising (online or otherwise) their services to take you to a vaccination appointment.
Additionally, if you have been contacted by one of these individuals or have witnessed this type of activity, please contact your local council on aging for legitimate assistance.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.
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Friday Front Porch Feature: A Luxurious Home for Hosting
By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — Are you looking for a luxurious home with tons of amenities? Then this might be the home for you.
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 65 Johnson Road.
This 1998 single-family is newly remodeled and has four bedrooms and four bathrooms. It is 4,298 square feet on more than an acre.
It is on the market for $1,075,000.
The home includes a two-car basement garage, a home gym with equipment, and a custom mudroom. There is also a salt water pool and outdoor fire pit. The kitchen has custom built-in freezer and refrigerator, perfect for hosting, and comes with countless built-in space and custom drawers, including a built-in Miele coffee machine.
We spoke with Mia and Melissa Mazzeo with Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Barnbrook Realty, which has the listing.
What do you think makes this property stand out in the current market?
Mazzeos: What truly sets this property apart in today's market is the exceptional quality and thoughtful attention to detail throughout. The sellers didn't just update this home — they reimagined it with care, intention, and craftsmanship. Every improvement was carefully considered, creating a move-in-ready space that feels both elevated and effortlessly livable
What was your first impression when you walked into the home?
It was an instant 'wow' moment. We were immediately impressed — and we absolutely loved the open floor plan. The space feels bright, connected, and perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.
Are there any standout design features or recent renovations?
Yes — this home truly has it all. Since 2018, the property has been fully renovated with both luxury and long-term quality in mind. Major improvements include a new roof, new windows, updated electrical and plumbing systems, new mini-split systems for efficient heating and cooling, new vinyl siding, and Trex decking for low-maintenance outdoor living. The pool has been converted to salt water, and the professionally updated landscaping enhances the home's curb appeal and outdoor enjoyment.
Inside, the level of customization is exceptional. Every detail was thoughtfully designed with built-in space for everything — including a dedicated coffee station, double dishwashers, a pullout shelf for your stand mixer, and custom drawers for cooking utensils. The large Sub-Zero refrigerator blends seamlessly into the cabinetry for a clean, sophisticated look. The dining room features a stunning built-in buffet complete with pullout refrigerator and freezer drawers, perfectly balancing elegance and functionality.
What kind of buyer do you see this home being perfect for?
This home is incredibly versatile. It's perfect for the buyer who loves to host and entertain, but just as ideal for a family seeking space and thoughtful design. And for someone who simply wants a private, peaceful setting to come home to — this property delivers that balance beautifully.
What would you say to a buyer trying to imagine their life in this space?
Close your eyes and imagine your dream home — every update completed, every amenity thoughtfully added, nothing left to do. Picture yourself soaking in the beauty of Berkshire County's ever-changing seasons through the windows of your all-season sunroom. Imagine the laughs and smiles that fill the air as you host loved ones in your chef's kitchen, designed perfectly for gathering and entertaining.
Now open your eyes… and you'll see 65 Johnson Road — the true definition of move-in ready.
You can find out more about this home on its listing here.
*Front Porch Feature brings you an exclusive to some of the houses listed on our real estate page every week. Here we take a bit of a deeper dive into a certain house for sale and ask questions so you don't have to.
Caprese Conyers scored 22 points, and Kyana Summers had a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds to go with eight assists as Pittsfield got back to the state semi-finals for the second year in a row. click for more
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 65 Johnson Road.
click for more