OLLI at BCC Announces Winter 2026 Semester

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Berkshire Community College (OLLI at BCC) announced its Winter 2026 class catalogue, offering hundreds of courses, lectures, and events — online and in person — for adults seeking enrichment, connection, and community. 
 
Online registration is open at berkshireolli.org/winter2026.
 
Each winter, OLLI brings together a learning community from across the Berkshires. In Winter 2026, members may choose from a variety of classes, spanning literature, history, science, arts, current events and even practical topics such as self-defense and hiking.
 
Some highlights of the Winter 2026 offerings:
  • Whose Declaration?: Reflecting on the Meaning and Significance of the Declaration of Independence — a six-session online course exploring the creation, motives, and lasting meaning of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, part of OLLI’s Rev250 commemoration of the American Revolution.
  • A diverse array of courses including literature classics, modern political issues, creative arts, fitness & self-defense, theatre, music, and more — 40+ course titles listed for Winter 2026.
  • Outdoor-learning opportunities like Winter Hiking in the Berkshires, offered on Thursdays and Fridays in January–February for small, member-only groups.

Flexibility for busy schedules: many online courses are recorded, allowing members to access sessions at their convenience.

Winter semester fees are structured to encourage participation: $60 for a single course, $110 for two, and $150 for three or more courses. As always, membership in OLLI at BCC is required to register — a full-year membership is $75. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.
 
 

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Dalton Fire Makes Quick Work of Gasoline Fire

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — Firefighters made quick work of a fire that started in a garage on Main Street on Thursday at about 4:30 p.m. 
 
Fire Chief Chris Cachat said the occupant was working on some motorcycles and "gasoline spilled, and there was a space heater that ignited."
 
It was going to be ruled as accidental, he said. 
 
All the occupants were accounted for and one cat was rescued. He said there should be no problem with the occupants getting back into the house once the electrical inspector clears the 
 
"The crews did a great job," the chief said, adding the late afternoon provided for more hands. "Perfect time of day to have something like this happen. We were able to get in here, get it knocked down."
 
The Fire Department was supported by police, Hinsdale, Windsor and Pittsfield fire departments, County Ambulance, the Water Department and Eversource.
 
Main Street was closed from Weston to Depot street for about an hour and half. 
 
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