2008 Berkshire International Film Festival

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The Berkshire International Film Festival (BIFF) today announces that Kevin Bacon will receive its annual Achievement in Film Award at this year's Festival held May 15 ­ 18, 2008 in Great Barrington, MA. The evening celebrating Mr. Bacon will be held on Friday, May 16 at the historic Mahaiwe Theatre.

Mr. Bacon's acting career spans some 30 years and over 60 films beginning with his break-out role in "Animal House." His incredible and diverse career has garnered numorous awards and nominations. His roles include such films as "Diner," "Footloose," "The River Wild," "Apollo 13," "The Woodsman," "The Big Picture," "Mystic River" and the upcoming Ron Howard film "Frost/Nixon."

"We are thrilled to be honoring such a talent as Kevin Bacon at this year's BIFF," said director Kelley Vickery. "He not only has had an incredible career as an actor, but also as a director and a musician. We are pleased to honor him as an artist and as a member of our Berkshire community."

The evening will begin with a cocktail reception on the stage of the Mahaiwe Theatre followed by the Tribute which will include special guests and film clips. A selection of Bacon's films will be screened throughout the BIFF weekend.

Last year's recipient of the award was acclaimed director Arthur Penn.

For passes, tickets, sponsor and volunteer opportunities and further information on the Berkshire International Film Festival, visit our website at  or call 413-528-8030.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Taconic High Names Top Students of the Class of 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Taconic High School Principal Matthew Bishop has announced the valedictorian and salutatorian of the class of 2026. 
 
They will speak during the graduation ceremony on Friday, June 12, at 4 p.m at Tanglewood in Lenox. 
 
Gavin O'Donnell, son of Kevin and Colleen O'Donnell of Pittsfield, has been named valedictorian with a grade average of 103. Hunter Bentz, son of Heidi Bentz of Pittsfield, has been named salutatorian with a grade average of 102.4.
 
Throughout his high school career, O'Donnell has exemplified the values of leadership, commitment, and excellence that define the Taconic community. He achieved high honors all four years and made significant contributions to both the school and the wider community. He was an active member of the Link Crew, Green and Gold, and Class Council, just to name a few of his activities. 
 
A dedicated athlete, O'Donnell played soccer and baseball all four years and was named captain of the varsity soccer and baseball teams both junior and senior years. His commitment to service extended beyond athletics, as he volunteered with Unified Games and was a math tutor at Taconic. He has also been an active part of Pittsfield Soccer Club, where he has helped
referee youth soccer games and assisted in getting the fields ready for game days.
 
He has earned several awards, including being a member of the National Honor Society,  the John and Abigail Adams Award, and being an AP Scholar and an AP Capstone Graduate. 
 
O'Donnell plans to pursue a degree in finance at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., where he will continue to play baseball and hopes to excel as a student. 
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