Market 32 and Freihofer's Launch Campaign for Parkinson’s Research

Print Story | Email Story

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — Market 32 and Price Chopper have partnered with Freihofer's Baking Company to launch an in-store fundraising campaign benefiting the Parkinson's Foundation.

The initiative, running through March and April, provides financial support for research, patient care, and efforts to find a cure for Parkinson's disease.

During the two-month promotion, $0.10 from every purchase of select Freihofer's products will be donated to the foundation. Participating items are identified by specially marked shelf tags in most Market 32 and Price Chopper locations.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition and the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States. According to the organizations, the disease affects nearly one million Americans, with a new diagnosis occurring approximately every six minutes.

"Parkinson's disease touches countless families across our communities," said Pam Cerrone, director of community relations for Market 32 and Price Chopper. “By partnering with Freihofer's, we're inviting our customers to join us in making a tangible difference."

The collaboration is part of a decade-long charitable history between the retailers and the baking company. Since 2014, the partnership between Market 32, Price Chopper, and Freihofer's has raised a total of $2.5 million for various non-profit and charitable organizations.

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

BRPC Votes in New Director, Bids Farewell to Matuszko

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The BRPC board voted Thursday to make Laura Brennan its next executive director.

Brennan is the economic development program manager for the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. She has been in the role since July 2023 but has been with BRPC since 2017, first serving as the senior planner of economic development. 

She earned her bachelor's degree from Franklin & Marshall College in Pennsylvania and earned a graduate-level certificate in local government leadership and management from Suffolk University.

Brennan was the preferred candidate the Executive Search Committee, which voted last week to present her and candidate Jason Zogg to the full committee. Zogg withdrew his application on Wednesday.

Board members congratulated Brennan, who was in attendance, with Chair Douglas McNally saying they have her back.

The commission voted to create a three-person negotiation subcommittee with executive committee members Malcolm Fick, Buck Donovan, and Sam Haupt. They will negotiate benefits, compensation, and terms of employment.

Brennan will be taking over for retiring Executive Director Thomas Matuszko. Matuszko was appointed as executive director in 2018, having previously been a principal planner from 1997 to 2000 and then assistant director from 2001. The new director will be the fourth in nearly 60 years.

Matuszko gave his last executive director report, amending the bylaws and changing the wordage to be more inclusive among other notes.

McNally said he was grateful that he made sure to do that before his leave.

Since it was Matuszko's last meeting those in attendance thanked him for his time at the BRPC.

"I had to just say you have had a huge positive impact on the Berkshires and thank you," said McNally.

"Thanks for my internship, Tom, 20-plus years ago, and everything you've done for Berkshire County," said Sarif and Matuszko said he was happy to still see her here after this long.

"I think Laura has learned a lot from you, and so she'll just be able to carry on. And so tonight is a great night for Berkshire County," said Christine Rasmussen.

"It's really, it's been a great ride, and I've enjoyed it almost all the time," said Matuszko. "There have been only very few times that hasn't been extremely enjoyable and satisfying. So I mostly appreciate the support that you all have given me and delegates and alternates over the years have given me and provide our staff."

He urged them to have the same relationship with Brennan, and provide her the help and support to be successful. 

"Thank you for all you've provided me with an opportunity, a great opportunity. I couldn't have asked for a better career."

View Full Story

More Pittsfield Stories