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.

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Neal's Office Among Those Targeted by Suspicious Mailings

Staff Reports12:28PM / Wednesday, October 21, 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — U.S. Rep. Richard Neal was among congressmen apparently targeted by someone mailing suspicious envelopes.

According to a report in The Berkshire Eagle, an envelope containing a powdery substance was discovered by postal inspectors before reaching Neal's Pittsfield office in the Silvio O. Conte Federal Building.

Nearly 40 members of Congress have received envelopes containing white powder, according to The Guardian. More than 100 letters are thought to be in the U.S. mail system and the FBI, Capitol Police and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service were investigating the mailings that have also been sent to elections officials in various states.

The mailings have been sent to both Republican and Democrat officeholders and several congressional district offices had to be evacuated in the last week or so after envelopes were opened in them.

Earlier today, my Bronx district office received an envelope delivered by mail that contained a suspicious substance. Local law enforcement responded swiftly and, after investigating, determined the substance to be non-hazardous.
— Rep. Ritchie Torres (@repritchie.bsky.social) October 16, 2026 at 3:10 PM

The Guardian reported that the FBI is warning officials to look for envelopes processed through a north Texas center and that carry a postmark or stamp stating "Thinking of You."

The Eagle states that Neal's office was alerted on Saturday that it might be getting a suspicious package; inspectors seized the envelope at the Fenn Street post office on Monday.

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