Market 32 Launches Pet Food Drive

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. In celebration of Market 32's 10th anniversary, Market 32 and Price Chopper stores are inviting customers to help make a difference in the lives of pets in need through the purchase of $10 bags of pet food.

Now through Oct. 4, shoppers will have the option to purchase and contribute a bag containing five dog food or cat food items. All donations will be distributed to animal shelters local to each store, ensuring these organizations and local families facing hardship can keep their pets healthy and well-fed.

"Pets are family, too," said Pam Cerrone, director of community relations for Market 32 and Price Chopper. "We're happy to provide a simple and affordable way for customers to support animal shelters and neighbors who may be struggling to feed their pets. Together, we can make sure that every pet gets the care and nourishment they deserve."

The donated pet food will benefit animals awaiting adoption at local shelters, as well as outreach programs that provide support to pet owners experiencing food insecurity. It will help stretch resources further and keep pets healthy.

 

 

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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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