Talking Chronicle, Greylock Federal Launch 'Financially Speaking'

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Talking Chronicle has launched its newest radio program, "Financially Speaking," created in partnership with Greylock Federal Credit Union.
 
This series is designed to help listeners build confidence and take control of their financial futures.
 
"Financially Speaking" will air Mondays at 12:30 and 7:30 p.m., with an additional broadcast Friday evenings at 7:30. Each 30-minute episode focuses on practical strategies for mastering money, offering clear, real-world guidance on topics that matter to individuals and families throughout the Berkshires.
 
The first three episodes in the series will cover:
  • How to Discuss Money as a Family
  • Preparing for Home Ownership
  • Understanding and Avoiding Predatory Lenders
The program is hosted by Cindy Shogry-Raimer, vice president and director of community development at Greylock Federal Credit Union. A certified credit union financial counselor, Shogry-Raimer brings more than 40 years of experience to the microphone. She began her career as a teller and has grown into a leadership role where she develops financial wellness programs, creates new products and services, and oversees a team of credit counselors. She also manages grant and certification reporting requirements for the U.S. Treasury.
 
Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is engaged in the community, serving on the boards of Pittsfield Community Television,Coolidge Hill Foundation, and Berkshire Training & Employment.
 
Through this partnership, the Berkshire Talking Chronicle continues its mission to provide meaningful, educational programming to the community, particularly for those who are blind, visually impaired, or print-disabled.
 
Listeners are encouraged to tune in and take the next step toward financial empowerment with "Financially Speaking."
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Arrest Warrants Issued for Pittsfield Shooting

Staff reportsiBerkshires

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Police were granted arrest warrants for two people suspected to be responsible for the Aug. 16 shooting on Francis Avenue. 

Jason Wright, 41, and an unnamed juvenile are charged with assault and battery, discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling, and possession of a gun without an FID card or license to carry. 

On Aug. 16, near 211 Francis Ave., three individuals suffered gunshot wounds and were all transported to Berkshire Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. This is one of four gun violence incidents on city streets this summer. 

Police say two of the individuals who suffered gunshot wounds are the subjects of the arrest warrants.

"I first want to commend the Pittsfield Police Department on solving this case in just eight days. They, along with members of the Task Force who provided support when needed, worked around the clock to identify those responsible," District Attorney Timothy Shugrue wrote on Monday. 
 
The DA said he understands that Pittsfield remains on edge, and said he is fully committed to providing resources, including funding for overtime and State Police detective resources, to support the Pittsfield Police Department as it continues its active investigations into the June 18, Aug. 4t, and Aug. 16 shootings. 

"No stone will be left unturned. If you bring violence and guns to our county, you will be held responsible to the greatest extent of the law," he wrote. 

The first arrest warrant issued is for a juvenile. The juvenile is charged with:

  • Two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, to wit a firearm
  • Attempted murder
  • Discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling
  • Possession of a firearm in commission of a felony
  • Possession of a firearm without an FID card/license to carry
  • Possession of ammunition without an FID card/license to carry

The second arrest warrant is for Jason Wright, 41, with a last known address on Woodlawn Avenue. Wright is charged with:

  • Attempted murder
  • Assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, to wit a firearm
  • Two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, to wit a Firearm
  • Discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a dwelling
  • Possession of a firearm in commission of a felony
  • Possession of a firearm without an FID/LTC
  • Possession of ammunition without an FID/LTC

There have been four gun violence incidents in Pittsfield since mid-June, leaving one person dead and a total of seven injured. Additionally, a Lanesborough man is facing multiple charges for allegedly shooting a gun near homes and a road while intoxicated on Sunday. 

On June 18, a person died after being shot in the area of Tyler Street and Pleasure Avenue, and another person was injured. Following an extensive investigation, police on June 23 had an arrest warrant out for Terry Martizna, 35, on a charge of murder.

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