Honorees Chosen for the 2022 Berkshire Nonprofit Awards

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GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires announced the names of 7 honorees receiving recognition at the 5th annual Berkshire Nonprofit Awards on May 24. 
 
The Berkshire Nonprofit Awards recognize the accomplishments and dedication of the people who work in the nonprofit sector.
 
A panel of 21 judges from the business and nonprofit sectors deliberated via Zoom to choose one honoree in each of 7 categories from among 86 nominations. The honorees are:
 
Board Leadership: Marie G. Rudden, MD/Berkshire Community Diaper Project
 
Executive Leadership: Ananda Timpane/Railroad Street Youth Project
 
Lifetime Achievement: Gerard E. Burke/Hillcrest Educational Centers
 
Rock Star: Katie Clarke/Community Access to the Arts (CATA)
 
Samya Rose Stumo Youth Leadership: Jade Schnauber/Lever, Inc.
 
Unsung Hero: Courtney Kimball/Construct Inc.
 
Volunteer: Charles Bonenti/Berkshire Immigrant Center
 
"The process of judging many excellent nominations was educational, inspiring, and extremely difficult," said Liana Toscanini, Executive Director of the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires. "Truly, each nominee deserves recognition and thanks for their dedication and humanity."
 
On May 24, Representative William "Smitty" Pignatelli will co-host a 45-minute virtual event featuring a presentation to the honorees, a message of inspiration from Lieutenant Governor Polito, entertainment by Music in Common, and a drawing for a $3,000 cash prize for one nonprofit in attendance. 
 
The event is free and open to the public.
 
Register to attend the Berkshire Nonprofit Awards online at npcberkshires.org or call (413) 441-9542.

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Victim Identified in Fatal Richmond Crash

Staff ReportsiBerkshires

RICHMOND, Mass. — A 25-year-old South County man died Thursday in the fiery crash on Route 41. 

The Berkshire District Attorney's Office on Friday reported that the victim was Christopher Lee Kilmer, 25.

The single-vehicle accident took place on Route 41 in Richmond near 2715 State Road. A Hyundai Sonata driven by Kilmer was travelling northbound when it crossed into the southbound lane and off the road; the car was engulfed in flames when first responders arrived.

According to the DA's Office, West Stockbridge Fire and County Ambulance declared Kilmer dead at 9:53 a.m. when the Fire Department "was able to extinguish the fire." 

"It was at this time (when the fire was extinguished) that first responders observed a single occupant in the vehicle and made the declaration of death," according to the press release.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has taken custody of the body. 

On Friday morning, several South County fire departments posted tributes on Facebook to Kilmer, who they reported was a member of the West Stockbridge and Alford fire departments.

"Every first responder carries a fear that one day the next emergency call will involve someone they know, a friend, a neighbor, or someone they love. But perhaps the greatest fear of all is when that call involves one of our own," the post read. 

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