SU FYI

1. Thank you! Through the Hyman Family Charitable Foundation, Allen and Valerie Hyman...

...donated money to purchase a big-screen TV for the Heaton Court community room. Now folks can watch TV together — much more fun.

2. Acknowledging generosity? Do you know Olga Weiss?

See article below. She donated 64 acres to Lenox and received a plaque (forty-nine years later). Her cousin, David Rothstein, architect and co-founder of Music Inn, donated 30 acres to Stockbridge around Lily Pond. Even though it is 50 years later, doesn't David deserve a plaque? Never too late to say thank you. By the way, it's just grand they are both still here!!

3. SBPHC Shared Regional Health Agent

The Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative, through the Tri-Town Health Department, is seeking a Shared Regional Health Agent.

Position is full-time with benefits. Compensation negotiable depending on the qualifications/experience. Duties include conducting sanitary code inspections, helping member towns, and related operations of the SBPHC.

Experience: Two years in public health or related field, or any equivalent combination of education or experience. Position is hourly, non-exempt, tobacco and vape free. Willing to train the right person. This posting will remain open until filled. Salary range $23.00-$28.00/hr. but negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to: Executive Director of Public Health, 45 Railroad Street, Lee, MA 01238 or jim@tritownhealth.org. To access the full job description, please visit www.tritownhealth.org.

4. Jim Wilusz, Executive Director, Tri-Town Health Department

Tri-Town has added the recent Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Air Quality advisory to the Tri-Town Site.

We've received quite a few inquiries related to the impact of the Canadian wildfires that are impacting the Berkshires. In addition, the Tri-Town Boards of Health Chair Charles Kenny and I recommend the use of n95 masking for those that feel it will help. Folks should contact their primary care physicians if they experience any side effects of respiratory concerns. Hopefully, this will pass in the next 24 hours. We are not issuing a formal advisory but rather sharing important information that will help those that are seeking it. As follows:

N95 masks are designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including small particles and liquid droplets. They are highly effective in protecting against particles such as dust, smoke, and various pollutants. N95 masks are commonly used in situations where there is a risk of airborne transmission of infectious diseases or exposure to hazardous particles.

If the air quality in the Northeast United States is severely compromised due to pollution, smoke, or other harmful particles, wearing an N95 mask can provide a certain level of protection. However, it's important to note that N95 masks are designed to fit tightly to the face to create a seal, and proper fit is crucial for their effectiveness. If the mask doesn't fit properly, it may not provide the expected level of protection.

Tells: Dr. Kenny agreed with SU that ducks herding their ducklings back into the water is a tell that the algae is not poisonous and Kenny adds, when the smell is gone so us danger from the smoke. Not science, folks, just a tell — an indication.

I was asked to give a talk on Stockbridge at a historical conference in Devens, MA. Their local pond had swans!