Pittsfield Superintendant Warns of Prohibited Toy Guns

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The district has been alerted of a concerning trend that is prohibited on school grounds: Orby or Orbeez gel guns.

The toy guns shoot gel or water beads and are said to pose a risk of physical harm and being mistaken for a real firearm. They are a violation of the Pittsfield Public School's code of conduct and could result in a suspension of 11 days or more.

"Though these may appear as simple toys, it's crucial to recognize the potential risks tied to their usage. By raising awareness, we aim to educate our community about the possible hazards associated with these items, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and responsible behavior," said Superintendent Joseph Curtis in a memo to the Pittsfield Public School community on Friday.

Given the frequency of school shootings nationwide, Curtis said schools cannot afford to accommodate anything that even remotely that resembles a firearm. The toy guns and gel beads are secured behind a locked case in Walmart on Hubbard Avenue, many indicating that they are for ages 14 and older.

"The Pittsfield Public Schools firmly maintains that Orby toy guns and any associated pellets should not be brought onto school premises, including both indoor and outdoor areas. This directive is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, staff, and visitors within our educational environment," he wrote.

• Physical Injuries: The guns have the capacity to propel projectiles at considerable speeds, posing a risk of injury to the eyes, skin, and even teeth, particularly when fired in close proximity.
   
• Misidentification Risks: Due to their realistic appearance, some Orby guns may be mistaken for genuine firearms. Such misidentification could result in confusion and potentially perilous encounters, especially if law enforcement or bystanders perceive them as real weapons.
   
• Public Disruption: The act of firing Orby guns in public settings can be highly disruptive and alarming to others. Such behavior may instill fear and panic among individuals nearby, potentially leading to charges of disorderly conduct or harassment.

Riverside Public House Offers Warm, Friendly Atmosphere

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
05:45AM / Friday, January 09, 2026

Riverside opened on Depot Street with some interior changes and a new menu —with a few popular holdovers. 

DALTON, Mass. — A new restaurant is trying to fill the hole left by the iconic Dewey's Public House.

 

Robert Collins opened the Riverside Public House recently in the former pub.

 

Dewey's owner closed the restaurant in July to "prioritize his health and family," according to a Facebook post. 

 

"I was a longtime patron of Dewey's Public House, and I always admired the fresh food and the homestyle cooking and broad range of menu items that he always either had on his menu, or it was always evolving and changing," Collins said. "I felt like there was a hole in town that missed that farm-to-table/pub atmosphere in town."

 

Collins was able to negotiate with Joe Dewey to acquire the items inside the restaurant. He changed some things like the tables, lighting, and the menu, but still paid homage to some of the classics, like Dewey's Milltown Pizza.

 

He also plans to have some events with music and a special prime rib night.

 

"We started on Saturday nights having a prime rib special every Saturday. And basically we're just gonna go with it until it runs out. We fix so much prime rib, and when it's gone. It's gone," he said.