2008 Berkshire International Film Festival

Print Story | Email Story
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.

Kennedy Calls BCC Workforce Graduates Inspiring

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

The programs ranged from emergency medical technician to computers to commercial drivers. See more photos here. 
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Community College Workforce and Community Education graduates were encouraged to be all they can be on Wednesday.
 
Graduates, families, friends, and staff gathered in Boland Theatre to celebrate around 100 graduates who completed a variety of courses.
 
They included community health worker, emergency medical technician, phlebotomy technician, registered behavior technician, AI fundamentals, Commercial Drivers License Class A and B, CompTIA Tech-plus, para educator, and English for Speakers of Other Languages.
 
College President Ellen Kennedy said it was amazing that this might be her last public speaking event before her tenure comes to an end.
 
She acknowledged the diverse reasons for their studies including career advancement and personal growth, commending their vulnerability and dedication. 
 
"Some of you explored AI, some of you improved your English speaking in really important ways, and the reason that each of you is here is because you decided to put your heart and soul to get vulnerable to do something that might have felt a little bit uncomfortable," she said. "And you did it, and we are so incredibly proud of you, and so happy to be here tonight, celebrating you."
 
Keynote speaker Shirley Edgerton, founder of Rites of Passage and Empowerment (ROPE) encouraged the graduates to reflect on their accomplishments and look forward to the future.
 
View Full Story

More Berkshire County Stories