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Pictured, left to right, Sai Meesala, Charlie Thompson, and Isaac Schultze

Lenox VFW Voice of Democracy Essay Winner and Runner Up

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LENOX, Mass. — On 11 November 2022, Veterans Day, the Lenox VFW Post recognized this year's Post level winner and runner up in the VFW Voice of Democracy competition. 
 
The theme this year was "Why is the Veteran Important?" The winner and recipient of the Post's first place prize of $300 was Sai Messala, a Freshman at Lenox Memorial Middle and High School. 
 
The runner up and winner of the $200 second place prize was Isaac Schultze, a Sophomore at Monument Mountain Regional High School. 
 
Sai Meesala will now move on to compete at the District level. 
 
Presenting the awards and prizes this year was Lenox VFW's Junior Vice Commander, Mr. Charlie Thompson. 
 
The Voice of Democracy competition is conducted every year and is open to all LMMHS 9-12 graders as well as qualified family of Post members. In addition, 6-8 graders who meet the same eligibility criteria can participate in the annual Patriot's Pen competition. 

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Berkshire Natural Resources Council Welcomes Director of Advancement

LENOX, Mass. — Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) announced the appointment of Emily Daunis as the organization's new Director of Advancement. 
 
With a background spanning over 15 years in strategic fundraising, major donor development, and building inclusive philanthropic programs, Daunis will lead BNRC's fundraising and engagement initiatives to support its mission of land conservation and access to nature in the Berkshires.  
 
In her most recent role as Director of Development at Berkshire United Way, Daunis played a part in advancing the organization's revenue goals by conducting new sponsorship initiatives and engagement strategies. Her extensive background also includes fundraising roles at prominent regional institutions such as the Clark Art Institute, MASS MoCA, and UMASS Amherst. 
 
"Daunis joins BNRC at a critical time, when we need to do even more to conserve land and help people connect to nature in the face of a changing climate. Her ability to connect to people in all walks of life and to create innovative fundraising strategies will enable BNRC to reach its ambitious strategic goals of conserving 20,000 more acres of habitat by 2030," Jenny Hansell, president of BNRC said. "I'm really looking forward to seeing how her leadership will help BNRC forge deeper connections with our supporters, engage new allies, and broaden our impact across the Berkshires." 
 
Daunis, an active member of the local community, holds leadership roles in North Adams, including serving as an elected member of the North Adams Public School Committee. In her new role at BNRC, she will continue her commitment to fostering a culture of philanthropy that is inclusive and rooted in the local community. 
 
"Joining BNRC is an opportunity to help conserve the landscapes that mean so much to everyone in Berkshire County," said Daunis. "I look forward to collaborating with the dedicated team, board of directors, volunteers, and supporters who care so deeply about protecting natural resources. Together we can make an impact that lasts generations." 
 
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