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Ruberto, Bianchi Spar in 'Pub' Debate

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
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Dan Valenti introduces the candidates at the PCTV studio on Thursday. The audio is below.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Mayoral candidates James M. Ruberto and Daniel Bianchi traded jabs for an hour Thursday afternoon in live match on Pittsfield Community Television.

The meet was the idea of commentator and writer Dan Valenti, who wanted to take the candidates out of a structured forum for a face-to-face conversation as if they'd sat down together discuss the issues at Patrick's Pub.

With but a slight push from Valenti, incumbent Ruberto and challenger Bianchi traded blows over crime statistics, campaign smears and financial acuity.

We'll have more on the story later, but for now you can hear the conversation for yourself.

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Pittsfield Firefighters Battle Early Morning Blaze in Extreme Cold

iBerkshires.com Staff
PITTSFIELD, Mass. – No injuries were reported after firefighters extinguished a fire in a two-story detached barn and garage at 566 South St. early Sunday morning.
 
The Pittsfield Fire Department just after 2 a.m. responded to reports of a building “fully involved” with the blaze.
 
“All personnel battled the blaze under extreme cold conditions with the main body of fire being brought under control within an hour,” according to a news release from the department.
 
The two-alarm fire brought all on-duty personnel to the scene, where they remained until about 6 a.m. to extinguish all remaining hot spots.
 
Hinsdale Fire Department was asked to respond with its firefighter rehab bus “due to the extreme cold conditions,” according to the news release.
 
There are three residences within 100 feet of the barn, but none were in danger during the fire, Deputy Chief Neil Myers said in the release.
 
The owner’s residence was not damaged in the blaze.
 
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