PITTSFIELD, Mass. — State Sen. Paul Mark and state Sen. Robyn Kennedy of Worcester, chair for the Joint Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, recently spent time visiting Berkshire County Arc's programs. Mark is also a member of the joint committee.
During their visit, they spent time discussing short- and long-term plans for human services in Massachusetts.
BCArc offers a broad range of community-based services to individuals with developmental disabilities, brain injuries and autism.
In the photo above, from left: Pam Kight, director of employment and community-based day services; Cybele Kilby, vice president of day & employment services; state Sen. Paul Mark; state Sen. Robyn Kennedy; President & CEO Maryann Hyatt; Erin Manson, Department of Developmental Services residential services director; CFO Blanca Durant; Jessica Russo, director of family support & advocacy; and Scott Barschdorf, director of brain injury services.
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Mother's Day Women's 5K Marking 50th Year
Community submission
PITTSFIELD, Mass. – The longest-running all-female road race in the United States will celebrate its 50th running this Mother’s Day at Berkshire Community College.
What began as a pioneering event for women in sport has grown into a beloved Berkshire tradition—one that has, for five decades, championed women’s health, safety, and empowerment.
Since its inception, the Women’s Running Race has donated all proceeds to organizations supporting women in the Berkshires. Over the years, several race directors have carried that mission forward. For the past 15 years, race director Shiobbean Lemme has strengthened and streamlined the race’s philanthropic impact by designating the Elizabeth Freeman Center as the sole beneficiary. The center provides lifesaving and life-changing services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence throughout Berkshire County.
“The Mother's Day race is a part of EFC history, going back to the early days of Women's Services Center,” Elizabeth Freeman Center Director Divya Chaturvedi said. “As one of the oldest women-only races in the country, it represents so many of the values we hold as an organization: autonomy, community, progress. This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 50-year milestone of both EFC and the Mother's Day Race itself, a testament to the enduring strength and impact of this tradition. We're incredibly grateful to Shiobbean, Berkshire Running Foundation, and the race sponsor, MountainOne, for keeping this event alive and continuing to support EFC's mission."
This year’s race is scheduled for 8 a.m. on Sunday, May 10.
“This race has always been about women supporting women,” Lemme said. “Reaching our 50th year is a testament to the runners, volunteers, partners, and community members who show up year after year to make a difference.”
This year’s milestone event is presented in partnership with Berkshire Community College and proudly sponsored by MountainOne. To amplify the race’s fundraising power, participants are encouraged to create a personal fundraising page during registration. Runners who raise $250 will receive a limited-edition commemorative hat, and those who raise $500 will earn an exclusive “Women Run the World” hoodie.
Right after the School Committee voted to close Morningside Community School, members saw how it will affect the fiscal year 2027 budget.
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Several traffic requests were made at the City Council's last meeting, including a query about the deteriorating Dalton Avenue overpass and an ask to fix the raised crosswalk on Holmes Road. click for more
