Dalton National Guard Airman Receives New Rank, New Responsibilities

02:08PM / Wednesday, May 28, 2025Print Story | Email Story

LATHAM, N.Y. — A Dalton, Mass., airman has been promoted in rank in the New York Air National Guard.

Charlotte Weiskotten, assigned to the 109th Airlift Wing, received the promotion April 15 to the rank of airman, first class.

She is a cybersecurity analyst and a graduate of Wahconah Regional High School and the Community College of the Air Force and is currently attending the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael Bank, the commander of the New York Air National Guard, announced the recent promotion of members of the Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Promotions are based on a airman's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential.

"The New York Air National Guard is built on a foundation of talented and motivated Airmen, and this month's promotions are a shining example of that excellence," Bank said. "I am honored to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our airmen, and I look forward to seeing their continued growth and contributions to our organization."

More information on the Guard here.

Tags: military news,

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New Camp Is Safe Place for Children Suffering Loss to Addiction

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
06:26AM / Saturday, December 27, 2025

Last year's Happy Campers courtesy of Max Tabakin.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A new camp is offering a safe place for children who have lost a parent or guardian to addiction.

Director Gayle Saks founded the nonprofit "Camp Happy Place" last year. The first camp was held in June with 14 children.

Saks is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor who works at the Brien Center. One of her final projects when studying was how to involve youth, and a camp came to mind. Camp had been her "happy place" growing up, and it became her dream to open her own.

"I keep a bucket list in my wallet, and it's right on here on this list, and I cross off things that I've accomplished," she said. "But it is the one thing on here that I knew I had to do."

The overnight co-ed camp is held at a summer camp in Winsted, Conn., where Saks spent her summers as a child. It is four nights and five days and completely free. Transportation is included as are many of the items needed for camping. The camp takes up to 30 children.

"I really don't think there's any place that exists specifically for this population. I think it's important to know, we've said this, but that it is not a therapeutic camp," Saks said.

She said the focus is on fun for the children, though they are able to talk to any of the volunteer and trained staff. The staff all have experience in social work, addiction and counseling, and working with children.

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