Lisa Jacobs Memorial Scholarship Fund Accepting Applications

Print Story | Email Story
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — UCP of Western Massachusetts is now accepting applications for the Lisa Jacobs Memorial Scholarship Fund, a scholarship honoring the life of Lisa Jacobs and her belief in living a "Life without Limits."
 
The fund was established by Lisa's mother, Maren Jacobs, a Board Member of UCP of Western Massachusetts for nearly 50 years. Lisa passed away in 2019, and this scholarship carries forward her legacy by supporting college-bound students who demonstrate a commitment to community service and the betterment of others.
 
Scholarship will be awarded to two students and help recipients cover the cost of college tuition and books, easing financial barriers to higher education.
 
According to a press release, Lisa lived her life in Lenox, where she attended public school and made many friends. She faced numerous congenital challenges, including cerebral palsy, glaucoma, a heart defect, and developmental disabilities. Over time, these conditions affected her ability to walk, speak, and see. Despite these limitations, Lisa greeted each day with enthusiasm, determination, and a sense of humor that drew people to her.
 
Applications are due April 15. Recipients will be notified around May 1.
 
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

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.

View Full Story

More Pittsfield Stories