Jason VelázquezLovingly, if hastily, curated bites of local news to go with breakfast.
Emergency regulations implemented to protect striped bass from overfishing
The Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries is implementing an emergency change to recreational regulations for striped bass due to overfishing. The new size limit will be 28 to less than 31 inches, with a one-fish-per-day allowance. The previous limit was 28 to less than 35 inches. The change aims to protect the 2015 class of striped bass, which is crucial for replenishing the population. The Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission is also discussing potential rule changes for striped bass fishing in 2024, including size limits for recreational and commercial fishing.
Read more at WWLP.com
Longtime president and CEOof WAMC retires, prompting search for new leadership
Alan Chartock, the president and CEO of WAMC Northeast Public Radio since 1981, has retired abruptly. The decision came after Chartock took time off to consider ending his career, following a reduction in his airtime. Stacey Rosenberry, the current director of operations and engineering, has been named as the interim CEO while the station searches for a permanent replacement. Chartock, who is 81 years old, played a crucial role in the financial stability and growth of WAMC over the past four decades. His retirement will lead to an examination of the station’s operations and future needs.
Read more at The Times Union
Former community center set to transform into apartments, overcoming neighbor concerns
The former Adams Community Center building, vacant since 2019, may soon be transformed into nine market-rate apartments by Robert Hinton and Hinton’s Berkshire Homes LLC. Despite some initial concerns raised by neighbors regarding traffic, property maintenance, and privacy, the Adams Planning Board approved the site plan for the property. Conditions for approval included repairing the chain-link fence, installing downward-facing outdoor lights to minimize light spillover, and planting tall vegetation for privacy. Both the town’s Community Development Director and Town Administrator expressed support for the project, emphasizing the need for market-rate housing in Adams. The conversion of the community center into apartments is seen as a positive step for the community, expected to reduce noise and congestion compared to its previous use.
Read more at The Berkshire Eagle
W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Freedom and Democracy awarded $1.1 million grant
The W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Freedom and Democracy has received a $1.1 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The three-year Humanities in Place grant will support the restoration of the historic Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church building in Great Barrington, paying homage to Du Bois and Berkshire County’s Black communities. The funding will cover structural and architectural work, exhibition design plans, and the search for a permanent executive director. The Du Bois Forum, held in collaboration with the African American Trail Project, will also benefit from the grant, with Dr. Kendra Field assuming the role of Forum director. The church, built in 1887, is a registered historic place.
Read more at The Berkshire Edge
GenX City Councilor with antiquated views attempts to stifle participation of GenZ in local democracy
Pittsfield City Council in Massachusetts rejected Ward 2 Councilor Charles Kronick’s proposal to impose a minimum age requirement of 30 years for School Committee candidates and a one-year “cooling off” period for elected officials. Kronick argued that School Committee members needed life experience, including education, employment, and family responsibilities. However, many councilors and community members opposed the age specification, viewing it as restrictive and against the principles of diversity and inclusion. They emphasized the importance of engaging young people in local governance and attracting them back to the city. Despite opposing the proposal, Ward 1 Councilor Kenneth Warren called for further discussion rather than outright rejection.
Read more at iBerkshires.com
The Moms Fighting Against Moms for Liberty
Defense of Democracy, a nonpartisan, pro-democracy group, is taking on right-wing extremism in the Hudson Valley and beyond.
Read more at The River
Bennington Farmers Market moving to Pownal
The Bennington Farmers Market will be moving to Pownal after 15 years in Bennington. The market has been struggling to find a permanent home in Bennington, and the Pownal location offers more space and parking. The market will be held on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, starting on July 2nd.
Read more in the The Bennington Banner
