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CHUCK GARIVALTIS: FROM SWAT KING TO TRUE PITTSFIELD HERO

2.5 16 votes
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BY DAN VALENTI

PLANET VALENTI NEWS AND COMMENTARY

(FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE, WEDNESDAY NOV. 25, 2020) — For decades THE PLANET has been hearing about this nation’s lack of heroes, as far back as the July 1959 issue of SPORT magazine, where writer Dick Young wondered where America’s heroes had gone.  Priests, social scientists, and the woman who used to run the ice cream counter at The Model Dairy on Ontario Street took up the call.

We have two-bit celebrities.

We have people who are famous for being famous (or have you not seen an episode of 90-Day Fiancee?).

We have Hogan.

But we don’t have heroes. They went the way of typewriters, white-out, and the double-wing formation.

As a lad THE PLANET had heroes, beginning with Dad. He fought as a rifleman, 394th regiment, 99th Infantry Division in the Battle of the Bulge and came back to not tell about it. Guys who went through that nightmare didn’t talk of heroics. They came back grateful and went ahead with the stoic task of building a life. Two other of our heroes were baseball star Ted Williams and Roy Rogers, “King of the Cowboys.”

Locally, we watched Carl Boteze pitched for Crescent Creamery against brother Pete and the Optimists, South Little League, Deming Park. Boteze later signed with the Boston Red Sox, pitching three years in the Sox chain, including AA 1969 at Pittsfield. We remember sitting in Wahconah Park watching 23-year-old Boteze pitch for the Red Sox and marveling how, a dozen years after LL days, there we were still watching him on the mound.

We tended to find heroes on the baseball diamond, where THE PLANET discovered our guy. One of our earliest toddler memories was hearing adults mention his name. This would be about 1953 or so and a high school team that was probably the best ever fielded in the history of Berkshire County baseball. The pitching rotation on that ’53 PHS team would have won games in the Majors, with a rotation led by ace Larry Bossidy.

Where is this all leading?

To a shout-out for Chuck Garivaltis, the .419 hitting left fielder of that legendary PHS squad.

Chuck is on the mend following a tough year with his health, back up to his playing weight of 175 pounds. Chuck, 85, remains the best pure hitter ever to come out of Berkshire County. After PHS, he and Bossidy went to Colgate, where they propelled the Raiders to the Division 1 College World Series, where they beat powerhouse Southern Cal. Chuck also played halfback and defensive back for Colgate, both ways, matches that included some of football’s biggest — Pete Dawkins, Bob Carpenter, and, of course, Syracuse’s Jimmy Brown. Do we have to mention the great photo of Chuck bringing down Brown with a solo tackle, the equivalent of trying to bench-press the Pentagon?

Didn’t think so.

Before turning pro signing with the NY-San Francisco Giants, Chuck set afire the American Amateur Baseball Association at Johnstown, PA. The AABA remains the country’s top such event. Countless Major League players appeared in the AABA, including Al Kaline, Manny Ramirez, Rico Petrocelli, Sparky Lyle, Reggie Jackson, Ken Griffey Jr., Rocky Colavito, Orel Hershiser, and Bernie Carbo. Garivaltis is the only player in that group to make the AABA Hall of Fame.

From the AABA website:

———- ooo ———-

Pittsfield Majestics

Pittsfield, Mass.

As many of you know, Chuck moved into a successful career in real estate and public service. He ran for mayor and lost, won office on the city council and school committee, and served in various advisory capacities, including the Pittsfield Parks Commission.

Heroes assume responsibility. Heroes are stand-up men who meet challenges with determination and effort, learning from failure and enjoying success without basking in it.

It has been THE PLANET‘s privilege to call this man our friend, for decades now.

The countless hours we have spent together over many a breakfast table can be counted among our most cherished.

Chuck, thanks for being you.

——————————————————————————————————- 

“The last of the human freedoms: to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way” — Neurologist and Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl.

“OPEN THE WINDOW, AUNT MILLIE.”

LOVE TO ALL.

The views and opinions expressed in the comment section or in the text other than those of PLANET VALENTI are not necessarily endorsed by the operators of this website. PLANET VALENTI assumes no responsibility for such views and opinions, and it reserves the right to remove or edit any comment, including but not limited to those that violate the website’s Rules of Conduct and its editorial policies. PLANET VALENTI shall not be held responsible for the consequences that may result from any posted comment or outside opinion or commentary as provided in Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act and this website’s terms of service. All users of this website — including readers, commentators, contributors, or anyone else making use of its information, hereby agree to these conditions by virtue of and contained in this notice. When PLANET VALENTI ends with the words “The Usual Disclaimer,” that phrase shall be understood to refer to the full text of this disclaimer. Copyright (c) 2020 by Dan Valenti.

 

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Jonathan Melle
Jonathan Melle
4 years ago

I hope Chuck Garivaltis gets well. My dad said he watched C.G. play baseball in Springfield back in the 1960’s. C.G. meant well in Pittsfield politics. I used to see him at City Hall at public meetings many years ago when I once lived there. I enjoy reading his blog posts on Planet Valenti. His heart is always in the right place. I admire people like C.G. who cares about his fellow man (and fellow woman). He grew up in a different Pittsfield than what sadly exists today. Downtown Pittsfield used to be a business district instead of “Social Services Alley” by day and “The Shooting Gallery” after hours. State and local politics wasn’t ran by the infamous two factions that both serve the same Democratic Party bosses in Boston back in the old days. I am sorry to know that C.G. has witnessed Pittsfield’s downward spiral over the decades. He was one of the good guys for sure.

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Jonathan Melle
4 years ago

Nice piece, Jonathon. Indeed I have witnessed Pittsfield’s downward spiral and it makes me sick. We had no control over GE leaving town, but over the years we have had control over who is elected to Pittsfield’s power offices. That has been more of a problem. It is a problem because folks mean well even if they are politically limited. This is Pittsfield’s dilemma. It is the best we can do. That’s the problem we have. No end in sight.

Cove Vedd
Cove Vedd
4 years ago

Wish some us could have seen Chuck play. Happy Thanksgiving Chuck. Happy Thanksgiving Dan. And Happy Thanksgiving to all on here. May the Bird be with you.

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Cove Vedd
4 years ago

Thanks, Cove. When Chuck played it was at Clapp Park or Wahconah Park. Not 5 miles out of town at the bottom of West Mountain.

Johnny99
Johnny99
4 years ago

Mr. G, I wish you strength and good luck as you mend. Congratulations on being recognized and honored by The Voice of The Little Guy. It’s been my honor to read your wise words here over the years.

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Johnny99
4 years ago

Thanks, Johnny, for your nice note.

Magic
Magic
4 years ago

Thank you for this tribute Dan. It’s my pleasure to know Chuck. Happy
Thanksgiving

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Magic
4 years ago

To you Magic, Happy Thanksgiving.

ShirlYNuts
ShirlYNuts
4 years ago

Great change of pace Dan. Berkshire County has been blessed with residents who have excelled in their chosen endeavors. It is great to remember them and give them thanks for allowing us to share in their journey of life. I think everyone should hit the pause button this Thanksgiving season to give thanks to all we have in this great nation. I also want to thank all that write in here and for Dan continuing to do this blog. Mr. G you are in our prayers for a speedy recovery and hopefully many more years of sharing your knowledge and perspective.

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

SHIRL,nice of you to send a lovely note. Thank you.

Thomas More
Thomas More
4 years ago

You didn’t mention that he was also the president of his class, senior year at PHS.

Petuh Givaway
Petuh Givaway
Reply to  Thomas More
4 years ago

I believe he was part time janitor also Thomas,along with best looking, best personality,likeliest to succeed…

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Thomas More
4 years ago

Thanks, Thomas. I probably asked you for ideas on what to say to classmates and parents.

Give ‘em the heater⚾️
Give ‘em the heater⚾️
4 years ago

Well written , Mr.Valenti. As an avid Baseball fan , I very Much love the stories as told by the people who lived them. Pittsfield has a rich history with the Gentlemen’s’ game
of baseball. It’s a shame we do not put more effort into letting the country and region learn about our Baseball history , the documents citing players to not toss the ball near the town meeting hall for fear
of breaking Windows. I believe that was 1794? The first earliest known reference to baseball. Our cherished Wahconah Park. A still standing reminder of many years , many games and many of the greatest talents to ever step between the lines. Thank you sir, a welcome break from shortcomings and gaffes , from our “Stars & Celebrities” a phrase coined by the lady in the office , that I imaging is very hard @ work to do her best in securing another”AWARD” for her weekly spew on the most biased
P.C.T.V.Platform.

Pat
Pat
4 years ago

Wasn’t Carl Boteze also a teacher at North Junior High School (now Reid Junior High)?

TellitLikeitIs
TellitLikeitIs
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

I think he owned a corn field in Richmond too.

Paul
Paul
4 years ago

The heroes are around us every day, but they are hidden in plain sight. They are people like the firefighters at the Pecks Rd station who came through the door to try and save my father’s life with compassion and professionalism. They ask for nothing in return. They are our men and women serving in the military that give so much and make the ultimate sacrifice to protect us. Our law enforcement who put their life on the line every day and in today’s climate are anything but thanked. Our medical community performs selfless acts of kindness daily never knowing if today will be the day they bring a virus home to their families.
The list goes on and on.

However, with today’s social media and our slanted mainstream media they hardly get noticed, replaced by entitled celebrities,athletes and other self appointed talking heads.
Many times honoring our real heroes gets criticized by the perpetually offended.

AmandaWell
AmandaWell
Reply to  Paul
4 years ago

Council Grades
Connell A
Morandi A
Moon F
Lampiasi F
Marchetti B
White F
Persip A
Cohen F-
Caccamo A
Maffucio A
Kavey F

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  AmandaWell
4 years ago

GOBSIGs!

TellitLikeitIs
TellitLikeitIs
Reply to  Paul
4 years ago

Very well stated Paul

J2S
J2S
Reply to  Paul
4 years ago

Amen to your post Paul. I don’t understand in these times especially how the people, you have mentioned that don’t seek even a thank you for their efforts each and every time they are needed, are treated less than a hero by many of the population they serve.

Magic
Magic
4 years ago

Off subject for sure. I am on North St., every morning on way to work. This whole parking/bike path is mind boggeling (sp) How are plows going to plow and will there be that many people using that bike lane in the winter in the Berkshires. Perhaps I’m missing something, the oil tanker in the wrong lane missed something for sure.

Mad Trapper
Mad Trapper
Reply to  Magic
4 years ago

the asshats in Lenox screwed parking/snow removal too.

Ketchen is worse the Federspiel, and that’s a hard act to be a turd to.

Last edited 4 years ago by Mad Trapper
Petuh Givaway
Petuh Givaway
Reply to  Magic
4 years ago

It’s ridiculous. Another Tired move. Two bicyclist seen on sidewalk. I would feel very comfortable riding in the lanes.

Merry & Bright
Merry & Bright
Reply to  Magic
4 years ago

Did this Administration pay a consultant to come up with this total disaster? Speaking of a disaster, would hate to be at the Boys/Girls Club myself or have a love one there if a fire should break out. Explain to me how the Tower One fire truck would ever make it down Melville Street to fight the fire. Find it amazing that the Mayor and City Councillors feel this disaster has improved Pittsfield. Then again they never seem to come out of hiding unless the Mayor is having a STAR Dance Party and it is quite evident they don’t care about the condition of the City. That was very evident during last nights ZOOM meeting. When a 12 year old young lady calls in and speaks more professionally and intelligently than the whole CC combined, kudos to that young lady, but shameful to our CC. Caccamo, Kavey Maffuccio, Marchetti, White & Persip don’t have a set of hoo hoos combined. So, this Administration is going to help folks that make six figures but don’t know how to budget their money?! Only in Tyerville, is she going to slip some money to her pal Andrea to catch up on her bills? CC is evidently terrified of the Mayor and can’t think for themselves except for Chris and Kevin. Pathetically sad. Thank you Chris and Kevin for once again trying to fight for the taxpayer.

Maggie May
Maggie May
Reply to  Merry & Bright
4 years ago

We should get Krol .,Wait he leaves quickly and his family.Or how about the catholic yons oh wait that’s all talk …What about the crooked fighting cop Happy 4th of July

Yeah Right
Yeah Right
Reply to  Maggie May
4 years ago

You really should really try to give thanks tomorrow and heck take the day off from being so miserable all the time. Plenty of time to be the Grinch

J2S
J2S
4 years ago

God Speed Chuck! We need your wisdom, Pittsfield think & sport’s history posts on the Planet board for a much longer time. More importantly, your family needs you most. I can hear the college band playing the Fight Song, now !

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  J2S
4 years ago

Fight Song always helped except when we played Syracuse and Jim Brown made mince meat of us. Six touchdowns by Jim and 5 extra points set a national record in 1956. Next year he was pro-footballs rookie of the year. Hard to believe in our freshman year we beat the “cuse” freshman team, and yes, Jim Brown was on that team.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
4 years ago

Mark Belanger deserves mention – 8-time Gold Glove shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles, who got his start at PHS. Mark would come to our St. Joe baseball team practices to coach us on fielding techniques, at the request of his brother Al who was our coach. He and Brooks Robinson at 3rd base made the left side of the Oriole infield impenetrable.

J2S
J2S
Reply to  Jerry Packard
4 years ago

Boog was waiting at first after those guy’s scooped up everything that came their way.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  J2S
4 years ago

Boog ‘Stone Fingers’ Powell. Right, Dan?

Who was on second.

No, Dave Johnson was on second. : )

Brooks Robinson: the human vacuum cleaner.

Last edited 4 years ago by Jerry Packard
Blair Runnor
Blair Runnor
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

You must have also known that Belanger spent time up at the G Mans nest.

Hung Wang
Hung Wang
Reply to  Blair Runnor
4 years ago

And G have many story.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

I do remember the party at Karen’s house. Mark’s presence was such a big deal. He ended up marrying Dee, Karen’s sister.

Acute Angina
Acute Angina
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

As I recall his batting average was several points above his personality.

Petuh Givaway
Petuh Givaway
Reply to  Jerry Packard
4 years ago

I saw Brooks make two errors in one inning at Fenway back in the sixties. Stayed at the old Sommerset Hotel and got Yaz’s utograph at midnight at Bar after hours. True story.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  Petuh Givaway
4 years ago

I sent Brooks a baseball card to Memorial Stadium in Baltimore when I was about 10 and he signed it and sent it back. Class act.

Petuh Givaway
Petuh Givaway
Reply to  Jerry Packard
4 years ago

Guess who greeted us during one of the games? Sheriff Car.

Blair Runnor
Blair Runnor
Reply to  Jerry Packard
4 years ago

Belanger was a selfish cigarette smoker and his brother left St Joe for greener pastures.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  Blair Runnor
4 years ago

all true

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Jerry Packard
4 years ago

Mark certainly deserves mention as the all-time great. Don;t forget his brother, Al, who was an outstanding baseball player, too.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Speaking of sports, Jason Whitlock just absolutely killing it this morning on the Glenn Beck Blaze TV Circus as guest host.

I only caught him between 11:300 and noon.

Just nailing it. I don’t how he knows all this stuff, but he’s always right on the money.

He was talking about Mike McCarthy doing a Gallagher bit in mashing watermelons, which of course is racist. White lib/black HYPOCRISY.

https://www.outkick.com/jason-whitlock/

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

comment image

Petuh Givaway
Petuh Givaway
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Taking the f in knee

Kermit Frog
Kermit Frog
4 years ago

God I miss baseball. Being a professional baseball player seems like the best job in the world.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  Kermit Frog
4 years ago

That’s what we all wanted to do, right?

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

I remember in 8th grade my first ‘homer’ over the fence at Mt Carmel.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

Not sure!

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Kermit Frog
4 years ago

Kermit, sometimes best job in the world, sometimes. I remember a Saturday night game in Allentown, Pa. that ended at midnight and we has to return to Springfield for a 1PM. game. Arrived in Springfield at 6 that morning and had to be at Pynchon Park at 11:30 AM to prepare for our game. No beer drinking or smooching that night I can promise you. That’s the minors. Not all fun.

Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth
Reply to  Chuck Garivaltis
4 years ago

Chuck. I never had the honor of meeting you, but your well deserved legacy still rings proudly on Allen St, where I likewise served on several appointed boards. Regarding your excellent athletic achievements; although I lettered in the 60’s at PHS I was more focused on my contemporaries, like Dave Southard, Monk Scago and Tommy Grieve. I regret however not being more aware of your outstanding feats. I was aware of Pittsfield’s great baseball history, but not a die hard fan except for players like my cousin Armand Walger and personal friends like Mark Belanger and Paul Pierce. I also have very close friend who you may have played against in the minors, Jack Wells of Greencastle, PA. Jack also held the PA high school basketball scoring record for some 50+years. Happy Thanksgiving and wishing you the best,

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Sojourner Truth
4 years ago

Enjoyed your message, Sojourner. Armond Walger sounds familiar but I do not recall him. Same with Jack Wells. Don’t believe I played against him. Recall others though. All of them great players. Dave, Monk, Tommy, Monk, and Paul. They did not come any better.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

No evidence:

PA State Legislature hearing today:

Rudy: Of the 600K votes added during curious “spikes” in PA, how many went to Biden?

Witness: “I think our figures were about 570-some-odd-thousand.”

“And how much for Trump?

Witness: “I think it was a little over 3,200.”

*crowd erupts in gasps, laughter*
 
https://twitter.com/TheFirstonTV/status/1331678013931589634

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Who doesn’t know this stuff about Belanger and the Orioles? I used to listen to the games on my little transistor radio in the 70s. Who was the Orioles announcer? Dan, you can’t answer, no fair.

Trump scores another run in the bottom of the second:

Pennsylvania Judge Delays Election Certification Pending Republican Legal Challenge
https://www.breitbart.com/2020-election/2020/11/25/pennsylvania-judge-delays-election-certification-pending-republican-legal-challenge/

Petuh Givaway
Petuh Givaway
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

alt General Flynn pa donned. Uh? Oath?

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

Shithead.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

Very impressive, like Kramer dominating the kids in his karate class.

All about the Dan.

Kerk Leslee
Kerk Leslee
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

You’ve had two thousand posts on here. All about the Murrow!

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  Kerk Leslee
4 years ago

All about the truth of what’s going on in our country. I understand that you don’t care.

The school committee
The school committee
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Counting votes in democratic cities that were told by President of the United States Don Trump to go rot,yes the President told these cities to rot and you thing he should have gotten more votes.Trump is a hater of America and democracy and a admirer of Putin/Russian/Oligarch power.It means we are still under the threat of a coup.If that happens then they come for your guns.Your problem wont be Biden as you will get what you wish for.

Acute Angina
Acute Angina
Reply to  The school committee
4 years ago

Trump is a real estate genius. He lives rent free in TSC’s head.

Rudy Sideleek
Rudy Sideleek
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

Fast Eddie. With posts, that is.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

I’m willing to allow that I was not precise in my “can’t,” as in you don’t know the answer. I should have said, “Dan, I know you know this, but give the other kids a shot at answering.”

People's Republic of Pittsfield
People's Republic of Pittsfield
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Speaking of Belanger. I have to hand it to him. His lifetime batting average was ten points higher than Pete Gray’s.

Jerry Packard
Jerry Packard
Reply to  People's Republic of Pittsfield
4 years ago

He didn’t give us any hitting advice.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  Jerry Packard
4 years ago

He must have shown you how to sacrifice bunt, no?

Too bad Mark didn’t have Charlie Lau as his hitting coach every season, instead of just the one(?). He hit .280 that year?

MathewShriff Dillund
MathewShriff Dillund
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

He hit over 3.00 one year.

Fred Rutherford
Fred Rutherford
4 years ago

Court Documents Show Discord Between Judge, Berkshire DA’s OfficeBy JOSH LANDES  16 MINUTES AGO
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  • The door of the Berkshire District Attorney’s office in downtown Pittsfield, Massachusetts.
  • JOSH LANDES / WAMC

Listen
Listening…

3:32
A back and forth over a defendant’s request for a new trial captured in court documents reveal sharp criticisms of the Berkshire County District Attorney by a superior court judge.
Judge John Agostini denied two motions in October and earlier this month for a new trial from DA Andrea Harrington’s office for Adalberto Santana Jr., who was arrested in 2017 and convicted of distributing cocaine in 2019. The DA’s office said it would abandon its prosecution of Santana in a new trial given that he has already served his two-year sentence in the Berkshire House of Correction and in acknowledgement of issues raised by the defendant.

In both denials, Agostini described the office’s actions as disingenuous.

In the first, dated October 5th, he says the office was too vague in its request for a new trial, citing no specific errors with the first trial but “based on the cumulative effect of the errors alleged in conjunction with the time served by the defendant.” Agostini suggests the DA avoided drawing attention to criticism of her office in the first request.

The judge determined that there is no evidence of the Drug Task Force engaging in witness entrapment as suggested by the defendant, and rejected claims from the defendant that the court erroneously excused two potential jurors “leaning against the prosecution.”

The first charge of disingenuousness from Agostini comes around the prosecution’s concerns about the time served by Santana. He says the Commonwealth failed to note that the case was tried “due to the Commonwealth’s insistence of state prison prior to trial,” and that the assistant DA recommended two and a half to three years in state prison. Santana was ultimately sentenced to two years at the Berkshire House of Correction. Agostini ends his note on the matter by writing “I sense that something else is going on.”

In her response to the first denial, dated November 3rd, Harrington says her office is backing Santana’s request for a new trial as part of its evolving understanding of the opioid epidemic and a War on Drugs it describes as punitive. She argues that Santana was an addict who occasionally sold drugs as opposed to a full-on dealer, and that the two jurors had been dismissed in pre-trial questioning because of “a perhaps intuitive sense that there appear to be racial disparities in the administration of criminal justice.” She also makes it clear that there was nothing to suggest any racial discrimination in the case in question. The DA concludes her argument by saying that undercover drug enforcement operations concentrate on neighborhoods “grievously afflicted with opioid addiction and trafficking,” and that law enforcement must consider how to eradicate that threat in a manner that doesn’t further social inequity.

In his second denial for a new trial, dated November 4th, Agostini draws attention to a changing narrative from the DA, noting that in her assent to the defendant’s motion for a new trial she acknowledges the claims of multiple errors in the process – the issues raised around the drug task force’s behavior and the dismissed jurors – but then the DA says she does not concede that the claims raised by the defendant were in fact error in the second request to consider a new trial.

The judge again calls the DA disingenuous in wanting to blame the dismissal of charges on the court and law enforcement officers. He accuses Harrington of not “standing up and telling the court the real reasons for the dismissal,” and implies that she threw the court and police under the bus. He suggests to the DA that “if the Commonwealth wants a charge dismissed, it is advisable that it simply tell the truth and the court will do everything to accomplish that goal.”

Through a spokesperson, the District Attorney’s office declined to comment on this story while the case remains pending in Appeals Court.

James
James
Reply to  Fred Rutherford
4 years ago

Harrington incompetence strikes again. Agostini says what the f@ck are you doing??! Surprised anyone?

MathewShriff Dillund
MathewShriff Dillund
Reply to  James
4 years ago

Actually the same question should have been asked on many of the Judges decisions. Like what is he doing?

Jesse’s watching
Jesse’s watching
Reply to  Fred Rutherford
4 years ago

Is someone keeping a talk somewhere of all these fumbles on her part, I don’t know if I can keep track anymore but I’ll try:
Her countless lies about lacking systems already in place during her campaign, drug court, valor act, on call ADA’s, her telling a judge she was incompetent, only having 7 district court appearances.
Her cronies coming up with unsubstantiated threats by opposing Attorneys families.
Raised the infamous left hand.
Supposedly misappropriated money for her inauguration party.
Showed up at her first murder and only had coffee and donuts to bring to the table.
Her question of if a “shell casing” could be removed from a murdered victim.
Fails to pay property taxes to the point of making it in the classified ads.
Goes after the town for putting her name in the paper.
Spends countless dollars on traveling to another country, Washington DC and countless times to Boston to buddy up in the political scene. Stuff Capeless never did.
Got stopped for speeding while leaving town for one of those conferences and forgets to pay the fine. But don’t worry, that was New York’s fault.
Don’t forget her photo op with the homeless, Kennedy and Hinds and all they were going to do for them, oh yeah, they’re all getting the boot now from her buddy Linda. And Kennedy lost.
Got caught driving a state vehicle the wrong way on primary day, where was she headed?
Had a suspended license when stopped, was that New York or Massachusetts fault, I forget.
Spent seven hours on the phone with the registry because of that when the rest of the commonwealth would’ve had to gone to a hearing on a suspended license to get their license back, that was the Eagles fault.
Skated the CWOF the rest of society would’ve got because she was never cited, that was the planets fault for revealing it.
Came up with a policy that any police officer with a CWOF was on that list, made that list just in time to distract attention from her wrong way stop.
Her friend Helen pointed out she was only treated that way because she was a white woman, Helen still hasn’t produced those documents so who knows who’s fault that is.
Got totally embarrassed by Judge Vrabel in North Adam’s trying to play prosecutor.
Tried to incarcerate a man for burning hay bails that happened to be against the Democratic Party, that got overturned.
Got served with angry creditors paperwork, I think she said that’s the Sheriffs departments fault but the facts of that haven’t come out yet.
Now this!
Her countless press releases that distort sentencing recommendations to “her office securing another conviction”, when it was a plea. Oh, wasn’t her PR guy a supposed impartial journalist during the campaign.
Am I missing any?
How are her OD and suicide numbers that she said she’d fix?
How many Williams College cases have been brought forward?
All of simons rock was a mess.
Oh yeah, dancing in the park over a presidential election. Whether you’re for progressive justice or law and order justice; someone in her position that is this worried about image is the most dangerous person in the criminal justice system, and in my opinion, the biggest threat to public safety.

NewsBoi
NewsBoi
Reply to  Jesse’s watching
4 years ago

Andy McKever, Josh Landes both news bois who look the same during dark sticky groupings especially to an ambitious DA candidate looking for a “leg up” and “good press” while trying to get “ahead”.

NewsBoi
NewsBoi
Reply to  Fred Rutherford
4 years ago

A jilted lover finally doing his job? When you are on the DL with the DA and she dumps you for an former iBerkshires reporter, this is the quality reporting you get. At least he’s doing his job now instead of trying his hand at getting a job.

Can somebody actually explain what’s going on? The defendant wants a new trial? In hopes of getting the conviction overturned? But the DA isn’t up for it because
Racists courts
Racist cops
Time served

But nothing to do with her incompetence? I think Andrea thinks it’s her job to defend the drug dealer? Does she know her job? Where the court is? Which way she’s driving? If she has a license? When her taxes are due?

How can a pro woman’s right DA send her kid to catholic school? Did she pay his tuition?

Mc Squeaky Toy
Mc Squeaky Toy
Reply to  Fred Rutherford
4 years ago

Squeaky really doesn’t know WTF she is doing.
When a judge puts you on blast on the record, it’s just an embarrassment all around. I think she’s too ambitious and stupid even to understand.

Jesse’s watching
Jesse’s watching
Reply to  Fred Rutherford
4 years ago

Did the judge question her integrity at the end, interesting point given her high and mighty stance on integrity. I still think Helen Moon has a ton of secrets and the rumors of her office investigating her democratic friends and burying the reports are out there. Her incompetence appears to be coming together now.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

PA State Legislature hearing in Gettysburg today.

Rudy and witnesses. 3+ hours.

I’ll give you just one for now, so you don’t have to scroll so much: scroll, scroll, scroll in the hay.

Olivia Jane Winters, Philly, minority inspector, registered Dim
 
Immediately met with hostile attitude from other poll workers at 6:30 am. Another poll worker wearing Biden hat, shirt, etc, which is illegal.
 
Judge of elections left the building—not allowed—supposed to sign a replacement ballot. Olivia objected but was confronted. “Shut up. Sit down.” Threatened with slap in face. “It will become a racial issue”—but no race involved. She called ward leader.
 
“You don’t belong here. Shut up. F you.” She continued to be threatened. Another poll worker also wearing Biden stuff.
 
“My election inspector voted—and then voted again.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJ2fTf-wVxQ

President Donald J. Trump calls into the hearing!
 
Watching the hearing from Oval Office. We won easily, by a lot. We won PA by a lot, and all of these swing states by a lot. Election night I received all kinds of congratulation calls from big political people. Poll watchers treated horribly, moved out of the room all over. Had to use binoculars. GOP watchers treated like dogs. Rough tactics.
 
Many, many cases—elderly woman walks in—“You already voted” “No I didn’t” (for Biden, of course). Given a provisional ballot, which goes nowhere.
 
Dead people were requesting ballots.
 
The whole world is watching us. Judges are cowards. Hundreds and hundreds of affidavits. Why not overturn these fraudulent results?
 
More votes than voters in Detroit. Two GOPers don’t want to certify. Harrassed.
 
More votes than voters.
 
GA, WI, MI—a lot of good things are happening.
 
PA and Philly—kept people in pens and out of building. TV monitors can’t see anything.
 
This election was lost by Dims. They cheated.
 
Very important moment in the history of our country. Dims are thugs and bullies. They’re bad people. Horrible people.
 
After Nov. 3—illegal votes. SCOTUS justice caught this.
 
It was a fraud. We have many more votes than we need. We got more votes than they thought possible. They got caught. They got caught spying on my campaign.
 
We have all the evidence, all the affidavits.
 
Rudy is great. Other lawyers are cowards. Rudy the greatest mayor.

Last edited 4 years ago by Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

GOP controls state legislatures in five of the six swing states. Four more of these hearings and . . .

Three hours of evidence.

Watch the Dims and lamestream hacks lie some more.

Last edited 4 years ago by Edward R. Murrow
Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
4 years ago

Picture of Art Ditmar in this piece jarred a few memories. I grew up on Euclid Ave. as did Art Ditmar. Art had a few years on me and I admired him as a great athlete at PHS and a friendly neighbor. Art made the majors and had a great career. He pitched for the Yankees and had the honor of starting a world series game. This is a team coached by Casey Strengel with Mickey Mantle, Whitey Ford and Yogi Berra as star players. Dosen’t get much better than that. Art has long retired to South Carolina and a neighbor of his in Carolina is Bobo Quadrozzi, the former great basketball and baseball player for PHS. Bobo pitched PHS to the 1949 state championship. Art and Bobo are two of Pittsfield’s all-time great athletes.

Slacaopp Defund
Slacaopp Defund
Reply to  danvalenti
4 years ago

Belanger replaced one of the all time greats Little Louie .

Ed has got to go
Ed has got to go
4 years ago

So my bet is Murrow is actually Andy from the DA’s office.
Completely stark raving mental polluting up the board with spam to drive readers away and play up that right wing kook narrative.
Well it’s working!

Acute Angina
Acute Angina
Reply to  Ed has got to go
4 years ago

Andy’s not smart enough .

Ed Has Got To Go
Ed Has Got To Go
Reply to  Acute Angina
4 years ago

You mean dumb enough. Murrow isn’t smart enough to hold down a job.

Slacaopp Defund
Slacaopp Defund
Reply to  Ed has got to go
4 years ago

Well it ain’t working. Biden’s President.

Mr. Fritz
Mr. Fritz
Reply to  Ed has got to go
4 years ago

And it’s obvious you are a leftist loon trying to stifle free speech.
In the words of a fellow Planeteer, “ya dumb!”

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  Mr. Fritz
4 years ago

True dat.

Jonathan Melle
Jonathan Melle
4 years ago

November 25, 2020

Hello Ashley Guerra-Agramonte,

I really enjoyed reading your essay on Beacon Hill’s rigged and undemocratic one political party system of government.

Diversity, competitiveness remain low in Mass. politics – MassINC

I believe that Beacon Hill politics uses retribution and fear to keep the incumbent career politicians in safe seats for decades. My dad was a politician in Western Massachusetts from the Spring of 1996 – July 1, 2000. For years, my dad and my family faced retribution from insider Beacon Hill politicians and their minions. (edited).

I read letters to the editors, blog posts, CommonWealth Magazine opinion articles, and essays such as the one you wrote today, and they all have the common theme that Beacon Hill politics is corrupt, rigged, secretive, undemocratic, and full of bureaucratic career state representatives and senators that don’t care about their legislative districts and the disenfranchised people who live in them. Beacon Hill lawmakers vote themselves huge pay raises, generous benefits and compensation, and then when they leave office and collect their taxpayer-funded state pension, they use their political connections to become registered Beacon Hill Lobbyists, or (edited) owners of marijuana businesses.

Beacon Hill’s unpassed fiscal year 2021 state budget is around 5 months late. The lawmakers voted for a 5.5% or $2.4 billion increase in state spending, but the Massachusetts state budget has an estimated budget deficit of $3.6 billion. The lawmakers’ math doesn’t add up. Their financial shell games don’t make any financial sense. The lawmakers waited until after the November 3rd, 2020, state election to vote on the still unpassed very late state budget, and they are waiting until after the new year to propose state tax hikes. The lawmakers are not offering to cut their own taxpayer-funded public perks, while they are asking taxpayers to pay for future tax hikes.

I believe it is time to term limit these corrupt buffoons on Beacon Hill. I believe that retired lawmakers should be barred from becoming registered Beacon Hill Lobbyists. (edited). I believe that Speaker for Life Robert DeLeo (2009 – ?) should no longer serve as Speaker in the new year of 2021. I support Act on Mass’ mission for transparency in the Boston Statehouse in the new year of 2021.

Thank you for speaking out about Beacon Hill’s entrenched and closed door politics and government.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Jonathan A. Melle

Ya Dumb
Ya Dumb
4 years ago

Andrea Harrington ya drive wrong, ya can’t argue a case, ya can’t pay no taxes or fines on time, ya got nappy hair and…ya dumb.

Pittsfield ya mayor don’t care, she fat, and she married a strange boy, ya diversity coach had to be forced onto a selection committee (ain’t no pay), ya got bikes on the sidewalk and kids playing in the street and…ya dumb.

Berkshire Hills ya got the covid in da classroom, ya be lying about it and ya let a kid spread Covid in that for days and…ya dumb.

Yuki ya nasty, everybody knows ya business and…ya dumb.

Dat market ya owner be touching the girls, ya be paying extra bumble cash to keep it quiet, ya not paying your taxes, ya stealing the sales tax money and…ya dumb.

The school committee
The school committee
Reply to  Ya Dumb
4 years ago

Fake

James
James
Reply to  Ya Dumb
4 years ago

Don;t forget Moon according to today’s Eagle is the recipient of a Public Service Award presented by the Massachusetts Women’s Political Caucus which she chairs. The other chair is City Councilor Dina Guiel Lampiasi. How many are in this group? Let me guess, two?

Lame Clownsill
Lame Clownsill
Reply to  James
4 years ago

Good for them. A new Group. THEM. To help empower me.

Auto Phil
Auto Phil
4 years ago

Nice piece Dan! Happy Thanksgiving to you and Chuck and everyone here on The Planet.

Chuck Garivaltis
Chuck Garivaltis
Reply to  Auto Phil
4 years ago

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, Phil.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Kraken released yesterday in GA and in MI.

https://www.defendingtherepublic.org/

From yesterday’s hearing:

David Shetokis (?), lawyer, election law enforcement, election vet, lead counsel on IL voter case
 
Monitoring process almost impossible.
 
Put in a corral [this word mentioned a lot by WITNESSES yesterday], fenced-in area. 15/20 feet at the closest. Ballots came in already sliced open at the top. No concept of what was going on. Big armloads of ballots came in. Ballots folded, had to unfolded, flatten the ballots took for hours. Feeding the ballots into machines, some would kick out, different piles, run some through again??? Stacks of ballots, run them through the machines.
 
Q: Can you explain to me the process of what happens to the ballots?
PA election official: “No.”
 
Q: Can you tell me where the ballots go at each step, any written protocol?
PA election official: “No.”
 
I have 25 other affidavits, most of them lawyers, who witnessed what I did.
 
PA Supreme Court = whacked.
 
US Const.: “Every state shall have a republican form of government.” But not PA apparently!

Mr. Fritz
Mr. Fritz
4 years ago

On this Thanksgiving Day, I am especially grateful for the freedoms “we the people” are guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution – that even tyrants like Andrew Cuomo cannot take away!

https://www.breitbart.com/faith/2020/11/25/supreme-court-sides-with-religious-groups-against-andrew-cuomo-5-4-barrett/

Be The Change
Be The Change
Reply to  Mr. Fritz
4 years ago

Define “guaranteed”. It depends upon what “is”, is.

Mr. Fritz
Mr. Fritz
4 years ago

I’m also thankful for this group of patriotic lawyers who are fighting against the Communist takeover of our nation!

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2020/11/president-trumps-dream-team-greatest-assembly-attorneys-us-history-fighting-survival-nation/

Gigi
Gigi
4 years ago

Joe Biden, the “devout Catholic” during his Thanksgiving address;

Watch: Joe Biden Quotes the Bible’s ‘Palmist’ in Thanksgiving Message (breitbart.com)

What a tool! What a turkey!

Ron J
Ron J
Reply to  Gigi
4 years ago

Syracuse football player lost another. Markus Paul former Bear and strength conditioning coach for Dallas. R I P .

MathewShriff Dillund
MathewShriff Dillund
Reply to  Gigi
4 years ago

Pleeeeeease give it up Trumpers. Your guy lost.

Mr. Fritz
Mr. Fritz
Reply to  MathewShriff Dillund
4 years ago

Don’t be too hasty, dude….

Mad Trapper
Mad Trapper
Reply to  Gigi
4 years ago

The Pope wants to make Biden a Saint.

He rose millions of people from the dead on Nov 3rd.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Be sure to read your palms, you faithful Catholics and other Christians:

https://twitter.com/HowieCarrShow/status/1331748486950350851

“Where am I? How did I get here? Why are you asking me questions? What are all these words on these screens in front of me?”

Joke Biden, you’re no Dan Quayle.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Fareed actually makes sense here–shocking, I know.

One thing, though. I’m not sure that some state governors or secs of state could choose the electors, because US Constitution clearly says that is the power of the state legislatures.

https://twitter.com/Annakhait/status/1331518315148308480

knock Hardnoc
knock Hardnoc
Reply to  Edward R. Murrow
4 years ago

Hitchcock Classic movies channel 58. Including Plant look a like Sean Connery in Marnie. Also,Psycho,Rear Window,Strangers on a Train,The Birds.

Lying Lyon
Lying Lyon
4 years ago

Candace Lyon and Proprietors at it again
They caused the closedown.
They have more violations than anyone in the short time they were open.
Their Halloween candy dinner spread Covid to 11 people so far.

Proprietor’s Lodge in Pittsfield will close indefinitely after this weekend following the city’s pause on in-person dining.

“Safety is our number one priority,” she said. “And, you know, maybe by us closing, we can help the restaurants that are remaining open, since there’s one fewer option.”

Candace Lyon I don’t believe this.

Faluttin Nancy
Faluttin Nancy
Reply to  Lying Lyon
4 years ago

Candace ought to question the neighbor who’s son cheated on his first wife as a girls softball coach.

Lying Lyon
Lying Lyon
Reply to  Faluttin Nancy
4 years ago

Crack head Haily is that you?
Candace should ask her husband how many 20 somethings he’s nutted into on “business trips”

Faluttin Nancy
Faluttin Nancy
Reply to  Lying Lyon
4 years ago

One of the neighbors near Proprietors.

Lying Lyon
Lying Lyon
Reply to  Lying Lyon
4 years ago

Dan you keep editing posts. You lose safe harbor if you edit.
You changing the last line makes you the editor.
Do you realize the problems that brings for you and the dishonesty that is as you extoll your “integrity”.
I have a screen shot of the original post waiting for moderation. If you are going to change what people say, you should note what it is and why or reject the whole thing.
You are now an editor, you are now responsible for all the honesty or lack there of once you change the posts.

Mad Trapper
Mad Trapper
4 years ago

Lawsuits filed in GA and MI by Sidney Powell

copy of Georgia complaint:

https://defendingtherepublic.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/COMPLAINT-CJ-PEARSON-V.-KEMP-11.25.2020.pdf

NATURE OF THE ACTION This civil action brings to light a massive election fraud, multiple violations of Georgia laws, including O.C.G.A. §§ 21-2-30(d), 21-2-31, 21-2-33.1 and §21-2-522, and multiple Constitutional violations, as shown by fact witnesses to specific incidents, multiple expert witnesses and the sheer mathematical impossibilities found in the Georgia 2020 General Election.11. As a civil action, the plaintiff’s burden of proof is a “preponderance of the evidence” to show, as the Georgia Supreme Court has made clear that, “[i] was not incumbent upon [Plaintiff] to show how the [] voters would have voted if their [absentee] ballots had been regular. [Plaintiff] only had to show that there were enough irregular ballots to place in doubt the result.” Mead v. Sheffield, 278 Ga. 268, 272, 601 S.E.2d 99, 102 (2004) (citingHowell v. Fears, 275 Ga. 627, 571 S.E.2d 392 (2002). ……………

Mad Trapper
Mad Trapper
Reply to  Mad Trapper
4 years ago

The Michigan complaint:

https://defendingtherepublic.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Michigan-Complaint.pdf

1 IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRCT OF MICHIGAN

TIMOTHYKING,MARIANELLEN SHERIDAN, JOHN EARL HAGGARD,CHARLES

JAMES RITCHARD, JAMES DAVID HOOPER and DAREN WADE RUBINGH, Plaintiffs.

v.GRETCHEN WHITMER, in her official capacity as Governor of the State of Michigan,

JOCELYN BENSON, in her official capacity as Michigan Secretary of State and the

Michigan BOARD OFSTATE CANVASSERS. Defendants.CASE NO. COMPLAINT FOR

DECLARATORY, EMERGENCY, AND PERMANENT INJUNCTIVE RELIEF

NATURE OF THE ACTION 1.This civil action brings to light a massive election fraud, multiple violations of the Michigan Election Code, see, e.g., MCL §§ 168.730-738, in addition to the Election and Electors Clauses and Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution violations that occurred during the 2020 General Election throughout the State of Michigan,1as set forth in the affidavits of dozens of eye witnesses and the statistical anomalies and mathematical impossibilities detailed in the affidavits of expert witnesses. ……..”

Mad Trapper
Mad Trapper
Reply to  Mad Trapper
4 years ago

https://hereistheevidence.com/

Due to the irregularity of this current 2020 Presidential Election, this is a crowdsourcing tool for organizing anomalies and legal issues. Our desire is that more of the election process would be made transparent so there would be unquestionable confidence in our voting systems.

This is for aggregating publicly available items of evidence that would be admissible in court, not general election news stories or updates.

Edward R. Murrow
Edward R. Murrow
Reply to  Mad Trapper
4 years ago

OK, this looks great after a short perusal. Thanks. Just a shame that it takes so long to load–a whole 30 seconds–and to return to the main page. This machine I’m on is Stone Age anyway.

Eagle Reportage
Eagle Reportage
4 years ago

Blox CMS is a horrible content platform.
The board of the Eagle should meet once a month, not once a quarter.
The paper is failing quickly and badly.
Morale is at an all time low as we get more content from services outside.
Heather got hit hard for her good work.
Local govt does absolutely interfere in news coverage. Crime reporting is non-existent.
You could fill pages of newsprint with all the petty crimes happening in the Berkshires.
The police have actually stopped taking reports on much of the crime that’s low level and quality of life because they don’t have the staff and the DA isn’t going to do anything that goes against her narrative.
The DA’s office is the most secretive and corrupt in generations, all the inside forces that are left are trying to keep out of the glare of, as the call her, mini Medusa aka Andrea Harrington.
There are lots of rumors of inappropriate relationships in that office, no one will go on record.
The city is dying and it’s due to lack of leadership on all levels.

Stories that have died due to editorial decisions via pressure from local politicians:
Harrington and her driving record. Including who was paying for the car.
Why Adam Hinds was forced to leave UN service.
Alleged misappropriation of funds at Soldier On. They had a work program and would “collect and invest” the funds of the clients. Many of those that lived there claimed their money was taken, there was an investigation going on, reporters were tasked, and it disappeared. Poof!
An investigation into corruption at the highest levels of the PPD including allowing certain dealers to work certain areas unfettered.
Millions of dollars of missing funds at city hall, all under Kerwood’s watch.
If you don’t think TFB and Tyer don’t influence news stories remember the Berkshire Museum.
Eagle editors and staff knew about the focus groups, knew about the sale months before it was news. There’s a whole series of photos of meetings, the paintings, people from the auction house doing inspections. The Eagle supported the sale, the Eagle let the Tyer, Hinds, and the museum board set that narrative.
The Eagle has failed the population of Berkshire county. The circulation is down because everyone knows it’s a propaganda arm of the local gobsigs.