Free Learn to Row Day on Onota Lake

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — On Saturday, June 7, 2025 when Berkshire Community Rowing (BCR) hosts its annual Learn to Row Program on Onota Lake.
 
Free rowing sessions will be held from 8:00 am to 9:45 am and again at 10:00 am to 11:45 am at the Berkshire Community Rowing boathouse in Burbank Park.
 
Registration is now open to reserve your Free Lesson. Please visit our website, berkshirecommunityrowing.org
 
"This is a fun community event that introduces Berkshire residents to the joy of a lifelong sport. The timing coincides with National Learn To Row events being held by rowing clubs across the country," said BCR board President, Connell McGrath. 
 
No rowing experience is required. Wear comfortable footwear and a hat for sun protection. Members of the Berkshire Community Rowing organization will guide participants through the basics of sculling with two oars and even coach you to take some strokes on the water. 
 
Berkshire Community Rowing is a non-profit organization that promotes the sport of rowing and encourages people of all backgrounds and levels of experience to row. The event will be held rain or shine. 
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Hinsdale OKs Police Department Audit After Fatal Shooting

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

HINSDALE, Mass. — The town has approved $25,000 for an administrative review of the police department, more than two months after police fatally shot 27-year-old Biagio Kauvil during a mental health crisis. 

Town Administrator Robert Graves said the shooting on Jan. 7 is not the only focus of the audit, and it will be several months before the Select Board receives a final report. 

During a special town meeting on March 11, an article appropriating $25,000 from free cash for an independent consultant to conduct a professional evaluation and audit of the Town's Police Department was approved. The audit includes a review of the department's policies, protocols, operations, and procedures, and concludes with a written report. 

"The Berkshire County District Attorney's Office and Massachusetts State Police are investigating the shooting, and we await their conclusions.  As we look to move forward, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, our insurance company (MIIA/Cabot Risk), and our legal counsel have recommended that the town hire an independent law enforcement consultant or firm to conduct a comprehensive administrative review of our police operation," Graves wrote in an email to iBerkshires on Friday. 

"This event is not their focus; they will assess the overall operation. We want a written assessment of our police operation's strengths and weaknesses to help Hinsdale make future changes and improvements." 

He said after completing the procurement process and signing a contract with a reputable consultant or business, it will most likely be several months before the Select Board receives the final report. 

"Still, it will help the town and police department move forward," Graves wrote. 

Last weekend, family and friends of Kauvil stood in Park Square asking for justice. A flier for the standout reads "Biagio was killed by police while experiencing a mental health crisis. Now, over seven weeks later, authorities have not yet provided any updates.

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