NASCAR Tickets Raffled For Woman Fighting Cancer

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Four tickets to the NASCAR Sprint Cup Race at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway on July 19 are being raffled to benefit a local woman battling cancer.

In March 2014, shortly before her 32nd birthday, Krista Pinsonneault, a high school history teacher at Drury High School, was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkins Lymphoma. What was supposed to be a relatively “easy” treatment regime turned much more complicated in July when her rather “traditional” cancer became refractory (a fancy word for extremely stubborn and resistant to chemotherapy). As a result, she has had to endure a much more difficult path toward recovery, one which will include a clinical trial in Boston over the next two years.

The tickets are $20 and can be purchased online.

In addition, any donation, big or small, will be appreciated; information on donating can be found online. All donations will go directly to Pinsonneault to help with her treatment and medical expenses.

Northern Berkshire Celebrates Spirit of Caring Award Recipients

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
06:22PM / Friday, May 10, 2024

NBUW Executive Director Patti Messina recognizes two 'dynamic' women retiring this year: Janice Broderick and Christine MacBeth. 

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Northern Berkshire United Way on Thursday saluted members of the community who have stepped beyond their roles to help and support others. 

 

Among them was state Rep. John Barrett III, former longtime mayor of North Adams, who was recognized not only for his efforts on behalf of the city for so many years but a "softer side" not always apparent. 

 

The celebration was NBUW's sixth annual Spirit of Caring Awards, held at Norad Mill and attended by its member agencies, sponsors and community members. The room was packed at 3 West for the presentations of the Spirit of the Future Award to Officer Stephanie Mirante, the newly named Steve Green Spirit of Community Award to Wild Oats and the Al Nelson Spirit of Caring Award to Barrett. Also recognized was Adams Heating & Plumbing for campaign of the year. Barrett also provided a proclamation from the House to his fellow recipients. 

 

Executive Director Patti Messina first wanted to recognize two women who are retiring after years of serving the community: Janice Broderick of the Elizabeth Freeman Center and Christine Macbeth, president and CEO of the Brien Center. 

 

"They leave behind a legacy of dedication, commitment and hard work to this community," she said. "We salute you and thank you for your accomplishments."

 

Sharon DeMyer-Nemser and Ellen Sutherland, both members of the board of directors, presented Barrett, elected to the House in 2017, with the award. 

 

"Although John really needs no introduction, we would like to take a moment to review John's past and storied history in our community," said DeMyer-Nemser, ticking off accomplishments including fighting for the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and convincing political leaders that arts and culture are vital components in building a strong creative economy in the Berkshires during his 26 years as mayor and representing North Berkshire on Beacon Hill.