BCArc Names Executive Vice President

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — BCArc has named Sonja Haecker, Ed.D, Executive Vice President. In this new position she will oversee the Agency's Community Services programs, including Adult Family Care Program, Family Support & Advocacy, Employment & Vocational Services, Day Habilitation programs, and Community-Based Day Services. She will also oversee the Clinical Department, and Respite Services. 
 
In addition, Sonja will assist the President & CEO with strategic planning initiatives. 
 
Prior to this position, Sonja was Vice President of Community Services, where she expanded the Adult Family Care program, strengthened Family Support Services, and successfully spearheaded several new Agency initiatives.
 
"Sonja has demonstrated incredible leadership, and has implemented numerous innovative initiatives," said Maryann Hyatt, BCArc President. "We look forward to Sonja bringing her talents and skills to this new position."
 
Sonja has presented at conferences statewide and nationally, and has been recognized by the Arc of Massachusetts for her Leadership in Family and Individual Supports. She is a Massachusetts Ambassador for the national initiative "Charting the LifeCourse," and serves on the Berkshire Community College Human Services Advisory Board. She holds several training certificates in areas such as Positive Behavior Supports, and the Parent Consultant Training Institute.
 
Sonja worked with at-risk youth and low-income families before joining BCArc.
 
She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of New England, a Master's in Education from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, where she is a Distinguished Alumna, and a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from the College of Saint Rose.

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Pittsfield Holiday Inn Temporarily Closes

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— The Holiday Inn & Suites is temporarily shut down, and 101 Restaurant & Bar has closed its doors until further notice. 

The hotel has been closed since Sept. 25, after its last working elevator of three broke down.  The Berkshire Eagle reported that guests were forced to evacuate because an elevator broke down. 

On Wednesday, 101 Restaurant & Bar posted on Facebook that they would close until further notice due to circumstances beyond their control and the closure of the Holiday Inn. 

"We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. We thank you and our staff for your patience. We look forward to welcoming you back as soon as we are able," the owners wrote. 

The central downtown, 12-story hotel has nearly 180 guest rooms.  Massachusetts requires public multi-level buildings and facilities to have elevator access. 

The Holiday Inn recently demolished its crumbling parking garage and is replacing it with a smaller one.  The building at 1 West Street was constructed in 1972; it was formerly known as the Crowne Plaza. 

101 Restaurant opened five years ago within the hotel.  It is owned by John and Tucker McNinch, who formerly operated the Olde Heritage Tavern in Lenox. 

Signs on the hotel's entrance explain that the doors are temporarily locked.  Anyone with questions is encouraged to call (413) 499-2000. 

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