2nd Street Elects New Executive Director

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The 2nd Street Board of Directors has elected Sergeant Lindsay Maynard as its new executive director following the departure of Jason Cuyler, who recently announced he has taken a position as Assistant Deputy Superintendent of Community Engagement at the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office. Maynard will take the reins at 2nd Street on April 1, 2024.
 
"Jason's leadership has been a key element in the extraordinary success of 2nd Street. His knowledge of our clients' needs and available services, as well as his vast network and credibility in the community, assured a level of trust and confidence from those we serve and those who support us. We are happy to see him advance in his career," said Mark Gold, president of the 2nd Street board of directors. "We look forward to working under the leadership of Lindsay, who brings considerable skills and ability to lead 2nd Street into the next phase of its growth."
 
Maynard, a native of Lanesborough, is currently a corrections officer and corrections caseworker for the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office. She holds a bachelor's degree in rehabilitation and disabilities studies with a minor in psychology, along with a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling, from Springfield College. She is also a graduate of the Western Massachusetts County Correctional Officers Academy.
 
Maynard has been "an integral part of 2nd Street since its inception," Gold said, noting that the organization works closely with the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office to place referrals, facilitate aftercare case management, create workshops and other events, and help maintain a seamless transition between incarceration and reentry into the community.
 
"Gratitude fuels my excitement as I step into the role of Executive Director of 2nd Street. I'm grateful for the trust of Sheriff Tom Bowler and the advocacy of Mark Gold, and I give special thanks to Jason Cuyler for his leadership and guidance," Maynard said. "I am ready to carry forward the community 2nd Street has created."
 
Jason Cuyler said his experience at 2nd Street will help drive him forward at his new position.
 
"Working collaboratively with fellow Berkshire County community agencies and the 2nd Street support staff has been an honor, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to sustain these partnerships in my new capacity with the Sheriff's Office," Cuyler said. "Providing services and support for formerly incarcerated clients has been a rewarding journey, and I look forward to continuing this vital work for the betterment of our community."
 
Sheriff Thomas Bowler praised both Cuyler and Maynard for their accomplishments.
 
"I am extremely proud of the incredible work Jason Cuyler has done as executive director of 2nd Street. What started as a simple vision — to work collaboratively with community agencies to address the needs of the formerly incarcerated — resulted in the creation of something very special," Bowler said.
 
"Jason proved to be the right fit at the right moment in time. The time has come, however, for Jason to take on an even bigger role within the Sheriff's Office," Bowler continued. "I could not think of a better person to assume his role than Sergeant Lindsay Maynard. Lindsay is extremely qualified and is respected by her clients and her peers. I am confident that she will continue what Jason has started with great success. Our community is blessed to have such talented individuals devote their lives to helping others in need."
 
 
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Pittsfield Superintendant Warns of Prohibited Toy Guns

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The district has been alerted of a concerning trend that is prohibited on school grounds: Orby or Orbeez gel guns.

The toy guns shoot gel or water beads and are said to pose a risk of physical harm and being mistaken for a real firearm. They are a violation of the Pittsfield Public School's code of conduct and could result in a suspension of 11 days or more.

"Though these may appear as simple toys, it's crucial to recognize the potential risks tied to their usage. By raising awareness, we aim to educate our community about the possible hazards associated with these items, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and responsible behavior," said Superintendent Joseph Curtis in a memo to the Pittsfield Public School community on Friday.

Last fall, someone used a similar gun to target cross-country students and a coach from Lee High. No one was injured in the incident. 

Given the frequency of school shootings nationwide, Curtis said schools cannot afford to accommodate anything that even remotely that resembles a firearm. The toy guns and gel beads are secured behind a locked case in Walmart on Hubbard Avenue, many indicating that they are for ages 14 and older.

"The Pittsfield Public Schools firmly maintains that Orby toy guns and any associated pellets should not be brought onto school premises, including both indoor and outdoor areas. This directive is in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, staff, and visitors within our educational environment," he wrote.

"We stress the significance of following this directive to prevent any potential hazards or disruptions that may arise from the presence of these items on school grounds. By upholding this standard, we aim to cultivate a secure and conducive learning environment for everyone within the Pittsfield community."

The superintendent listed three potential hazards of the water-bead guns in the schools:

  • Physical Injuries: The guns have the capacity to propel projectiles at considerable speeds, posing a risk of injury to the eyes, skin, and even teeth, particularly when fired in close proximity.
     
  • Misidentification Risks: Due to their realistic appearance, some Orby guns may be mistaken for genuine firearms. Such misidentification could result in confusion and potentially perilous encounters, especially if law enforcement or bystanders perceive them as real weapons.
     
  • Public Disruption: The act of firing Orby guns in public settings can be highly disruptive and alarming to others. Such behavior may instill fear and panic among individuals nearby, potentially leading to charges of disorderly conduct or harassment.
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