Big Y Partners with Red Cross Relief Campaign in Response to California Wildfires

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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. Big Y is partnering with the American Red Cross to raise donations for those affected by the California Wildfires. 
 
Now through Friday, Jan. 31st, Big Y customers and employees will have the opportunity to donate to American Red Cross Disaster Relief at all Big Y supermarket locations throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut.
 
Donation containers for cash donations will be available at all Big Y registers, with the ability to donate with credit or debit at the register, via the myExpress Checkout app or https://bit.ly/BigYCaliforniaWildfiresSupport.
 
"The American Red Cross is focused on making sure everyone has a safe place to stay, and no one faces this heartbreaking crisis alone," said Holly Grant, Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross Massachusetts Region. “The Red Cross is working closely with our partners to provide safe shelter, food, emotional support and other critical services to those in need."
 
According to President and CEO Michael P. D'Amour, "For years, our Big Y customers and employees have come together to support those in need through the Red Cross. Currently, their kindness and ongoing contributions are making a meaningful difference in the lives of families affected by these wildfires. We are deeply thankful for everyone's generosity and commitment to helping those facing this devastation."
 
The funds raised through this campaign will support people in the communities affected by these fires.

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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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