Pittsfield Superintendant Warns of Prohibited Toy Guns

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.

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.

• 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.

Signaled Intersection Proposed for West Street in Pittsfield

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
01:13PM / Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Ward 6 Councilor Dina Lampiasi speaks at public hearing on plans to reduce speeding on West Street. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The city believes that traffic lights at the intersection of lower and upper West Street will improve safety.

Last week, a hearing was held for improvements on the roadway that saw two pedestrian deaths last year. After a few iterations, the updated design reduces the footprint and adds a signal at the intersection of lower and upper West.

"This is a big change," City Engineer Tyler Shedd said.

"Traffic signals are expensive and it's part of the reason why we decided to reduce the sort of scope along West Street and stopping at Backman Avenue instead of continuing with the resurfacing all the way to Valentine Road."

All three directions will have a signal and it will be bordered by three crosswalks.

The City Council has authorized a $2 million capital borrowing for the streetscape improvements on the corridor and the hope is to bid work in the fall with construction beginning in the springtime.

Ward 6 Councilor Dina Lampiasi appreciates the effort and a lot of the work done to improve safety in the corridor but is hesitant about the light.

"I'm going to be honest, I'm not a big fan of the light," she said. "And residents I've spoken to I think it's about a 50/50."