Local Experts to Host Forum on Artificial Intelligence at BCC

08:50AM / Tuesday, December 30, 2025Print Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape how we live, work, and learn, many are left wondering what these changes actually mean for their daily lives.

To address these questions, Berkshire Community College (BCC) will host "AI: Benefits, Challenges, and Possibilities" on Jan. 21, 2026, at 6:00 pm. This event is free and open to the public.

This in-person event, held on campus in the Koussevitzky Arts Center in room K-111, brings together two distinct voices in the field of AI and communication for an open, informative discussion designed for the "curious and the cautious" alike.

The evening will feature an exchange of perspectives aimed at demystifying AI technology. Attendees will explore practical examples of AI in action, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss the ethical considerations of a world where AI is increasingly present.

Meet the Experts:

The discussion will feature two prominent local professionals:

Adam Graney: Founder of Gold Flamingo AI Solutions. With over 15 years of digital expertise and a focus on AI integration since the launch of ChatGPT-3.5, Graney specializes in turning AI complexity into a competitive advantage. His work helps businesses save hours of weekly workflow by architecting tailored AI solutions.
Hari Kumar: Founder of Convivo. A Berkshire-based entrepreneur and graduate of E4All Berkshire County, Kumar brings 20 years of facilitation experience. With a background in both engineering and communications, he focuses on helping people build authentic communication skills within the tech and higher education sectors.

The conversation will be moderated by Linda Clairmont, Executive Director of Workforce and Community Education at the College, ensuring a balanced and engaging dialogue that prioritizes community questions and concerns.

"Whether you're looking to save time in your professional workflow or you're simply trying to understand the headlines, this event offers a chance to learn and connect with others navigating these same uncertainties," said Clairmont.

Event Details:

Registration: Members of the public and the campus community are encouraged to RSVP at www.berkshirecc.edu/ai-debate.

Tags: BCC,

iBerkshires.com Text Ads

rk MILES Blding Materials

Are You Ready to Update Your Home? Start With rk MILES. 4 Locations (800)670-7433

www.rkmiles.com

RIBCO Supply

Check out our great lineup of Boss Plows, and spreaders. 2 Locations Clarksburg & Pittsfield!

ribcosupply.com

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Berkshire Towns Can Tap State Seasonal Communities Resources

10:15AM / Monday, December 29, 2025

BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey announced that 18 additional municipalities across Massachusetts have been designated as Seasonal Communities, opening up new tools, support and grant funding to help them manage seasonal housing pressures.

Created as part of the historic Affordable Homes Act signed into law by Governor Healey in 2024, the Seasonal Communities designation was designed to recognize Massachusetts communities that experience substantial variation in seasonal employment and to create distinctive tools to address their unique housing needs. The law also established the Seasonal Communities Advisory Council (SCAC).

"Our seasonal communities are a vital part of Massachusetts' cultural and economic fabric, but they're also home to essential workers, families, seniors, and longtime residents who deserve a place to live year-round," said

Governor Healey. "That's why we're committed to supporting these communities with innovative solutions like the Seasonal Communities designation to meet their unique needs, and I'm thrilled that we're offering this opportunity to 18 additional communities across the state. Everyone who calls these places home should be able to live, work and grow here, no matter the season."

The Affordable Homes Act identified several communities to automatically receive the designation, including:

All municipalities in the counties of Dukes and Nantucket;
All municipalities with over 35 percent seasonal housing units in Barnstable County; and
All municipalities with more than 40 percent seasonal housing units in Berkshire County.

To identify additional communities, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (HLC) reviewed available data, specifically focusing on cities and towns with high levels of short-term rentals and a high share of second- or vacation homes.

In Berkshire County, Egremont, Great Barrington, Lee, Lenox, New Marlborough, Richmond, Sandisfield, Sheffield, West Stockbridge and Williamstown were designated.

As with the statutorily identified communities, acceptance of the designation for municipalities is voluntary and requires a local legislative vote. HLC will open an application for newly eligible communities that haven't accepted the Seasonal Communities designation to request consideration.

View Full Story