Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation Raises Over $40K at Golf Tournament

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation announced that the 28th Annual Golf Tournament, held at the Wyndhurst Golf Club, raised over $40,000. 
 
Each year, the foundation awards $5,000 in scholarships to local student-athletes pursuing higher education. This support helps them achieve their academic and athletic goals at colleges and universities. Moreover, the foundation recognizes outstanding community service by awarding $2,500 annually to a "Volunteer of the Year." This award is designated for use at a non-profit organization chosen by the recipient, fostering a spirit of giving and community support.
 
"We are incredibly grateful to all the participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made this year's golf tournament such a success," said John Barbarotta, president of the Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation. "Our community's continued support enables us to enhance the lives of local youth and promote volunteerism, reflecting the foundation's enduring commitment to making a positive
impact."
 
2024 Award Recipients:
 
Bianchi-Barbotta Scholarship Award Winners
? Rylan Padleford - Wahconah
? Genevieve Collins - Lenox High School
 
Al Bianchi Memorial Scholarship Winner
? Kaden Tatro - Hoosac Valley
 
The Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting youth sports, educational scholarships, and community volunteerism in Berkshire County. For over four decades, the foundation has made significant contributions to the local community, promoting health, education, and community service.
 
According to press release, the Bianchi-Barbarotta Foundation has been a cornerstone of the Berkshire County community. Recent accomplishments include the construction of scoreboards at both the Berkshire Community College (BCC) turf field and the Pittsfield YMCA. In addition, the foundation sponsors numerous youth sports teams and leagues, such as the Pittsfield Bulldogs, South Little League, North Adams Youth Football, Baseball and Softball.
 

Tags: scholarships,   golf,   

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Hinsdale OKs Police Department Audit After Fatal Shooting

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

HINSDALE, Mass. — The town has approved $25,000 for an administrative review of the police department, more than two months after police fatally shot 27-year-old Biagio Kauvil during a mental health crisis. 

Town Administrator Robert Graves said the shooting on Jan. 7 is not the only focus of the audit, and it will be several months before the Select Board receives a final report. 

During a special town meeting on March 11, an article appropriating $25,000 from free cash for an independent consultant to conduct a professional evaluation and audit of the Town's Police Department was approved. The audit includes a review of the department's policies, protocols, operations, and procedures, and concludes with a written report. 

"The Berkshire County District Attorney's Office and Massachusetts State Police are investigating the shooting, and we await their conclusions.  As we look to move forward, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, our insurance company (MIIA/Cabot Risk), and our legal counsel have recommended that the town hire an independent law enforcement consultant or firm to conduct a comprehensive administrative review of our police operation," Graves wrote in an email to iBerkshires on Friday. 

"This event is not their focus; they will assess the overall operation. We want a written assessment of our police operation's strengths and weaknesses to help Hinsdale make future changes and improvements." 

He said after completing the procurement process and signing a contract with a reputable consultant or business, it will most likely be several months before the Select Board receives the final report. 

"Still, it will help the town and police department move forward," Graves wrote. 

Last weekend, family and friends of Kauvil stood in Park Square asking for justice. A flier for the standout reads "Biagio was killed by police while experiencing a mental health crisis. Now, over seven weeks later, authorities have not yet provided any updates.

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