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There is a splash pad located at Clapp Park in Pittsfield.
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Ways to Cool Off this Summer

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
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Enjoy the splash pad at Noel Field in North Adams.

It's going to be hot this week, and if you'd like to beat that summer heat, here are some places to enjoy. Make sure to get outside during the tail end of summer and enjoy some of the water the Berkshires has to offer.

Clapp Park

Pittsfield

Clapp Park is a great area for little ones and even adults to cool off. The splash pads located behind the field are turned on daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Spend some time in the water as well as the small playground located next to it. Make sure to bring some sunscreen!

Noel Field Athletic Complex Splash Pad

North Adams

The splash pad is another great splash pad in the city where you can enjoy the water as well as the playground. Located at 298 State St and just a short drive from many places to get an ice cream or cool beverage to relax afterwards.

Lake Mansfield

Great Barrington

Enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing at the lake this summer. Located by entering through Christian Hill Road. There are also plenty of picnic tables to sit around and enjoy lunch together before heading back into the water.

Burbank Park/ Onota Lake

Pittsfield

Take a day at this beach location and enjoy a swim. You can even catch a fish or take a boat ride out into the lake. The beach also has a toy box for people to use and donate while playing on the sand. 

York Lake

New Marlborough

Enjoy this other family-friendly beach with picnic and grills. You're also welcome to fish or take a kayak out onto the water. It's located at East Hill Road off Route 183. 

Wahconah Falls

Dalton

Located at 1 North Street, enjoy the breathtaking views of a waterfall that's easily accessible. Dip your feet in the water and enjoy the scenery as well at one of the picnic tables on site.

 

Clarksburg State Park

Clarksburg

Enjoy a day at the Clarksburg campground where you can launch a boat, fish, or even swim at the beach. Enjoy a nice lunch at one of the many picnic tables. The campground also has an abundance of hiking trails through the shaded greenery to explore.

Lenox Town Beach

Lenox

The Lenox town beach is used by residents only but others are able to visit town hall for a pass to go to the beach. At the beach you can enjoy swimming. There is also a covered pavilion to enjoy a nice lunch. Build sandcastles and relax. Just a short drive from the beach you can also launch a boat to enjoy a nice float through Laurel Lake.




 


Tags: lakes, ponds,   

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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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