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Berkshire Family Hikes Launching Backpack Program

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The backpacks will have informational and educational materials, a safety kit and other items to make hiking enjoyable. 
DALTON, Mass. — Berkshire Family Hikes' "Uncommon Paths" program will allow hikers to borrow a backpack full of beginner hiking material from the Dalton Free Public Library starting May 20.
 
Library patrons can take out two curated backpacks filled with essential hiking supplies. Each backpack contains all the necessary gear for a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure, including field guides, hiking tips, a first aid kit, and more.
 
Library cardholders can borrow a backpack at no cost; hikers can rent the bag for one week, which is non-renewable. 
 
This initiative aims to promote outdoor exploration and community engagement in partnership with the library and the town's Open Space and Recreation Committee.
 
Berkshire Family Hikes will celebrate the program's launch with a kickoff hike event at the Pines Community Forest on Friday, May 17, at 1:30 p.m.
 
Participants will have the chance to experience the beauty of nature alongside fellow outdoor enthusiasts and see the backpacks in action. In the event of inclement weather, the rain date is set for Saturday, May 18, at 10 a.m.
 
This program is partly supported by a grant from the Dalton Cultural Council, which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.  In November, the Cultural Council approved the initiative for a $648 grant.
 
"We are thrilled to introduce the Uncommon Paths backpack program to the Dalton community. This initiative not only encourages individuals and families to connect with nature but also helps to boost the borrower's confidence in getting outdoors," Taylor Staubach, Founder of Berkshire Family Hikes, said. 
 
"We are deeply grateful for the support of the Dalton Cultural Council, as well as our partners at the Dalton Public Library and the Dalton Open Space and Recreation Committee, in making this program a reality."
 
Berkshire Family Hikes is a local organization dedicated to promoting outdoor exploration, education, and stewardship in the Berkshires through guided hikes, educational programs, and community initiatives. 
 
They strive to connect individuals and families with the natural world while fostering a sense of adventure and environmental responsibility.
 
The "Uncommon Paths" backpack program aligns with their mission to provide accessible outdoor experiences that promote physical activity, mental well-being, and 
 
More information about the Uncommon Paths backpack program and to stay updated on upcoming events here

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Afternoon Arrival Estimated for Harris on Saturday

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to arrive in Pittsfield early Saturday afternoon, according to emerging information about the campaign event.

Gov. Maura Healey will greet her at Westfield-Barnes Airport around 12:30 p.m. The Pittsfield event is expected to start around 1:30 p.m.

"Please be advised that due to a special event occurring in the downtown area, we ask the public to follow all posted detours between 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 27," a press release from the city reads.

"Drivers should also expect delays downtown and should consider alternate routes. Parking restrictions will also be in place. Residents, visitors and event attendees should keep these temporary closures in mind when traveling."

Harris was scheduled for the sold-out event in downtown Pittsfield before being suddenly elevated to presidential candidate on Sunday. The original Biden-Harris fundraiser is now a Harris fundraiser but it was unclear if she would continue with her scheduled appearances.

Tickets sold out almost immediately, ranging from $100 to thousands of dollars.

"For security purposes," event details have not been disclosed such as the time and location.  It is assumed to occur at the Colonial Theatre based on a seating chart in the Eventbrite ticket link though, a representative from the theater last week denied knowledge of the event — then directed the caller to the Eventbrite link.

Josh Landes, WAMC's Berkshire bureau chief, has confirmed that he will be at the event and posted details to social media on Friday.

"We expect the program [at the Colonial Theatre] to begin at approximately 1:20 p.m. ET and for the show to conclude at 2:40 p.m. ET," the post reads.

"The program will include remarks from Senator Elizabeth Warren, Senator Ed Markey, Congressman Richie Neal, Fmr. Governor Deval Patrick and Heather Cox Richardson as well as performances by James Taylor, Yo-Yo Ma, and Emanuel Ax. Concessions will be available for purchase at the venue."

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