Our BerkshireTimes Magazine, Winter 2018

Complimentary

Cover Art by Tony DiTerlizzi, www.diterlizzi.com / Now on view at the Norman Rockwell Museum, www.nrm.org

Local Events | Art & Culture | Home & Garden | Vibrant Living

™

Our BerkshireTimes

Winter 2018, vol 46

“ ““

CARINGFOR FORPETS PETSSINCE SINCE1957 1957 CARING FOR PETS SINCE 1957 CARING

ConvenientLocation Locationwith withAmple AmpleParking Parking Convenient Location with Ample Parking Convenient onRoute Route 7less lessthan than aminute minutesouth southof ofGuido’s Guido’s on on Route 77less than aaminute south of Guido’s

PETWELLNESS WELLNESSISIS ISOUR OURSPECIALTY. SPECIALTY. PET WELLNESS OUR SPECIALTY. PET RAW-FEEDINGISIS ISOUR OURPASSION. PASSION. RAW-FEEDING OUR PASSION. RAW-FEEDING

ENSD DOTTER OTTER’’’SSSPPET ET ENS OTTER ET BBENS

940 MAIN MAIN STREET, STREET,GREAT GREAT BARRINGTON, BARRINGTON,MA MA 413-528-4940 413-528-4940 940 940 MAIN STREET, GREAT BARRINGTON, MA 413-528-4940

Ourscience scienceof ofraw raworganic organicfermented fermentedpet petfoods. foods.

Our Our science of raw organic fermented pet foods.

Ourpassion passionfor forcreating creating ahigher higherstandard standardof ofpet petfood. food.

Our Our passion for creating aahigher standard of pet food.

Winter 2018

Our BerkshireTimes™ PUBLISHERS Kathy I. Regan publisher@ourberkshiretimes.com Kevin J. Regan kevin@ourberkshiretimes.com _______________ EDITORIAL Kathy I. Regan editor@ourberkshiretimes.com Proofreader Rodelinde Albrecht _______________ DESIGN Magazine Design/Layout Kathy I. Regan Brianna I. Regan _______________ TO ADVERTISE CONTACT Account Representatives Kevin J. Regan kevin@ourberkshiretimes.com Debra Johnson debra@ourberkshiretimes.com _______________ Our BerkshireGreen, Inc. P.O. Box 133, Housatonic, MA 01236 Phone: (413) 274-1122 advertise@ourberkshiretimes.com www.OurBerkshireTimes.com Contact us to find out more about advertising. Please submit editorial content, illustrations, and cover art for consideration through our website.

Contents 4

art, culture & entertainment FUN THINGS TO DO TONY DITERLIZZI

8

love & romance special IS LOVE REALLY ALL YOU NEED? BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS WINTER GIFT GUIDE

12

food & drink A WINTER SALAD

14

animal talk RABBITS WILL CHEW BENSDOTTER’S PET

16

4

home & garden INDOOR SUCCULENTS DRONES ARE HERE TO STAY

20

health & wellness MERCURY AMALGAM FILLINGS RESTORE YOUR CONFIDENCE HYDRO HEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS

24

mind & spirit LABYRINTHS AS SACRED PLACES ASK VICKI

26

14

education & workshops MAKING DEPOSITS

27

crafts & hobbies special

COVER ILLUSTRATION

SEW MUCH FUN!

“Never Abandon Imagination,” 2017,

by Tony DiTerlizzi, www.diterlizzi.com

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Tony DiTerlizzi has created books for nearly two decades. From his fanciful picture books such as The Spider and The Fly (Caldecott Honor), to chapter books like Kenny & The Dragon, DiTerlizzi imbues his stories with rich imagination. With Holly Black, he created The Spiderwick Chronicles, which has sold millions of copies worldwide and has been adapted into a successful feature film. www.diterlizzi.com, email: studio@diterlizzi.com

1

30 31

have you heard? featured advertisers

S

ON THE COVER - “Never Abandon Imagination,” 2017, by Tony DiTerlizzi.

Colored pencil and acryla gouache on plate Bristol. Illustration for Norman Rockwell Museum exhibition. ©Tony DiTerlizzi.

Our BerkshireTimes magazine has been proudly created without Wi-Fi since it was first published in 2009. This publication is printed with soy ink on Forest Stewardship Council® certified paper. We distribute bimonthly (six issues per year) and most of our editorial content is contributed by our community members.

All content in Our BerkshireTimes™ is accepted in good faith. We do not necessarily advocate and cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by our authors, illustrators, and advertisers. We reserve the right to refuse advertising for any reason. For printing errors of the publisher’s responsibility, liability is limited to the cost of the ad space in which it first appeared. Unless otherwise noted, we use a Creative Commons License in place of a standard copyright.

3

Explore the Berkshires AND BEYOND - FUN THINGS TO DO!

“Never Abandon Imagination: The Fantastical Art of Tony DiTerlizzi” When: Now through Monday, May 28, 2018 Where: Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Glendale Road/ Route 183, Stockbridge, MA Cost: Free with museum admission, adults $20, kids free Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA, to view an exhibition of works by Our BerkshireTimes magazine’s current cover artist, New York Times #1 bestselling author and illustrator Tony DiTerlizzi. Best known for cowriting and illustrating The Spiderwick Chronicles, the hugely popular series of books, Tony DiTerlizzi has built a career centered around imagination. From his first job illustrating for the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons in 1992 through his current project, The Broken Ornament, DiTerlizzi infuses his work with a sense of wonder and innocence that has affected millions of readers. Join us for engaging lectures, fascinating programs, drop-in art classes, family days, special exhibition tours, and gaming at the museum with “Roleplay! Dungeons & Dragons,” based on this exhibition of Tony DiTerlizzi’s fantastical art. www.nrm.org

Guido’s Fresh Marketplace Cookbook Club Potluck When: The last Tuesday of each month in the Great Barrington store, and the last Thursday of each month in the Pittsfield store.

Where: Guido’s Fresh Marketplace, 760 South Main Street, Great Barrington, MA, and 1020 South Street, Pittsfield, MA Cost: Free Do you have a stack of cookbooks on your nightstand? Do your ears perk up at words like labneh, spätzle, and soufflé? It sounds like you should join the Guido’s Cookbook Club! Here’s how it works: Get your hands on a copy of the book of the month (from the library, borrow 4

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

from a friend, or buy it at Guido’s at 10 percent off). We’ll also have some key ingredients from the book at 10 percent off for the month.

Try out a few recipes, and pick a favorite to bring to the potluck. Let us know what it is! Enjoy a feast with all the cookbook club members. We’ll announce the next month’s book, and raffle off a copy. Send an email to achernila@guidosfreshmarketplace.com so we know you’re participating. www.guidosfreshmarketplace.com

The Constitution and the Presidency When: Saturday, January 20, 2018, 1pm Where: Berkshire Athenaeum, One Wendell Avenue, Pittsfield, MA Cost: Free Local author and BCC professor James Arpante will discuss “The Constitution and the Presidency.” This program is approved for Forum Credit for Berkshire Community College Students. Free and no registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Berkshire Athenaeum. (413) 499-9480. www.pittsfieldlibrary.org

Beekeeping and Organic Solutions When: Saturday, January 27, 2018, 10am-2pm Where: Berkshire Botanical Garden, 5 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA Cost: $5 - $10 The honeybee faces many affronts to its immune system in these days of Varroa mites and climate destabilization. The so-called colony collapse disorder now facing beekeepers makes it all the more imperative that local beekeepers, farmers, gardeners, and homeowners learn healthy ways to assist the honeybee and other pollinators. Following this class, participants are welcome to stay to meet and discuss beekeeping with others. Light refreshments will be provided. (413) 298-3926, www.berkshirebotanical.org

art, culture & entertainment

Beeswax: Production, Collection, Processing, and Uses When: Saturday, January 27, 2018, 1-3pm Where: Berkshire Botanical Garden, 5 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA Cost: $25 - $35

Dress Up Your Windows Window Treatments

Hunter Douglas ● Graber ● Norman Shutters Upholstery, Draperies, Fabric & Wallpaper

Beeswax is a unique substance produced within the body of the honeybee. This workshop will cover its origins to its human uses for health and healing, everyday practical use, and artistic expression. We will explore the origins of beeswax within the hive, its properties, how the bees use it, and how we can benefit from this incredibly useful substance. Space is limited! (413) 298-3926, www.berkshirebotanical.org

Moonlight Owl and Wildlife Prowl When: Tuesday, January 30, 2018, 6-7pm Where: Canoe Meadows, 309 Holmes Road, Pittsfield, MA Cost: $4 - $8 Enjoy a moonlit winter evening at one of our sanctuaries to listen and watch for owls and other nocturnal wildlife. We’ll explore fields, forests, and wetlands and learn about animal adaptations for hunting at night. We’ll warm up with tea and hot cocoa after the walk. Presented by Mass Audubon’s Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, (413) 637-0320, www.massaudubon.org

Kids Can Cook @ the Co-op Chocolate Mandalas & Sweetheart Soda

Window Treatments

Hunter Douglas • Graber • Comfortex • Norman Shutter For all Your Decorating Needs Upholstery, Draperies, Fabric & Wallpaper

BerkshireFabric Fabric & Wallpaper Berkshire & Wallpaper 274 Wahconah Pittsfield, 274 Wahconah St.,St., Pittsfield, MA MA

(413) 442-4420 413-442-4420

Open 10-5, closed Open dailydaily 10-5:30, SatSat 10-4,10-4, closed SundaySun

www.berkshirefabricwallpaper.com

STUNNING BERKSHIRE CONTEMPORARY

When: Saturday, February 10, 2018, 10:30-11:30am Where: Berkshire Co-op Market, 42 Bridge Street, Great Barrington, MA Cost: Free (sign up ASAP) Join us for a craft and cooking project! In this workshop, we’ll be melting delicious Equal Exchange chocolate that will be transformed into beautiful, edible mandalas. We will use seeds, dried berries, and cereal to create these tasty works of art. Finished chocolates can be taken home or gifted to your valentine! While the chocolates are cooling, we will be making a sweetheart soda using fizzy water, fruit, and fruit juice.

Please note, this will be a nut-free workshop. For more information, call (413) 528-9697. To reserve your spot in this free workshop, sign up at www.berkshire.coop.

Night Hike at Alford Springs When: Saturday, February 10, 2018, 5-8pm Where: Alford, MA (see directions on website listed below) Cost: Free Take a night hike at Alford Springs, MA, with Berkshire Natural Resources Council on the Father Loop to the early successional, open habitat to take in the view of the night sky and enjoy hot apple cider before returning to the trailhead. 2 miles total (moderate pace, moderate continued on page 7

GREAT BARRINGTON | GUEST WING | GUNITE POOL The perfect combination of privacy and luxury, this fabulous Contemporary is an outstanding choice for the Berkshires...in a convenient location to everywhere you want to be!

Exclusively offered at $1,700,000

Steve Erenburg Associate

413 663 0457 413 637 1086 lenox, ma www.cohenwhiteassoc.com

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

5

art, culture & entertainment

Tony DiTerlizzi OUR BERKSHIRETIMES MAGAZINE'S WINTER 2018 COVER ARTIST

I

loved stories as a kid, both having them read to me and enjoying them on my own. All these stories inspired my imagination, and that’s what I have always aimed at doing for my readers: igniting their imagination. ~ Tony DiTerlizzi

Dust jacket for Kenny & the Dragon, Simon & Schuster, 2008.

Colored pencil and acryla gouache on Bristol board.

New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Tony DiTerlizzi (pronounced dee-tur-leet-zee) was born in Los Angeles, California, on September 6, 1969. The oldest of three siblings, he spent the majority of his youth in Jupiter, Florida, enjoying nature and outdoor activities such as bike riding, hiking, and taking photographs – especially macrophotography of insects.

After high school, DiTerlizzi enrolled in several colleges including a brief stint at Florida School of the Arts, and received his degree in graphic design at The Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale in 1992.

An avid bookworm, Tony grew up reading books like The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary, Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears by Leo and Dianne Dillon, and Watership Down by Richard Adams. Over the years he has collected a lot of early edition children’s books and classic literature, as well as old toys, games, and knickknacks from his childhood. As a movie lover, Tony especially enjoys seeing how stories are adapted into film.

DiTerlizzi has been creating children’s books for nearly two decades. From fanciful picture books like The Spider and The Fly (a Caldecott Honor book), to chapter books like Kenny & The Dragon and the WondLa trilogy, DiTerlizzi imbues his stories with a rich imagination. With author Holly Black, he created the middle-grade series, The Spiderwick Chronicles, which has sold millions of copies, has been adapted into a feature film, and has been translated in more than thirty countries. He teamed up with Lucasfilm to retell the original Star Wars trilogy as a picture 6

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

book and his collaboration with acclaimed author Mo Willems created the bestselling The Story of Diva and Flea. The beginning of Tony’s storied career is showcased in Realms: The Roleplaying Game Art of Tony DiTerlizzi. He has been featured in Time magazine, USA Today, CNN, PBS, the BBC, and The Today Show.

You can currently see an exhibition of DiTerlizzi’s work, Never Abandon Imagination: The Fantastical Art of Tony DiTerlizzi, at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA, through May 28, 2018. See www.nrm.org. DiTerlizzi’s books are available at fine bookstores everywhere. www.diterlizzi.com

Artist Tony DiTerlizzi at work in his studio.

art, culture & entertainment

Explore the Berkshires AND BEYOND - FUN THINGS TO DO! elevation changes). Please bring water, wear sturdy footwear (consider snowshoes and/or micro-spikes) and bring appropriate clothing. Email Mariah at mauman@bnrc.org or call (413) 499-0596 with questions. www.tinyurl.com/yclva62l

Websites 101: Designing & Maintaining a Website for your Business When: Thursday, February 22, 2018, 5:30-8:30pm Where: Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker Street, Lenox, MA Cost: $10 for Berkshire Grown members; $20 for nonmembers Supper will be provided; RSVP required, register online Join a panel of local website designers to learn about the options for an affordable, manageable website for your business, whatever your size and capacity. We’ll lay out your options for an online presence, from a free Facebook page to a website hosted and managed by local web professionals – and everything in between. We’ll cover the basics you need to know, break down the advantages and disadvantages of various arrangements, and get expert advice for an effective site. There will be plenty of time for questions. Panel presenters include Caroline Alexander and Glenn Geiger. www.berkshiregrown.org; register at www.tinyurl.com/yax7cnxj

/ continued from page 5

networking event for people involved in sustainable business, environmental and social causes, local and organic food, green architecture and design, media, communications, education, construction, clean energy and more.

It’s fun, it’s inspiring, it’s informal, it’s friendly, and it’s where we come together for the most important thing we need to sustain our work and community: it’s where we connect. www.greendrinks.org, www.facebook. com/nbgreendrinks/about

Southern Vermont Wings and Winter HomeBrew Festival 2018 When: Saturday, March 10, 2018, 12-5pm Where: See website for details Cost: $20-$45 Join us for our second annual Wings and Winter HomeBrew Festival! We had a sell-out crowd last year and have big plans for 2018: bigger venue, more wings, more homebrewers, and live music! Enjoy plentiful samples of wings from the area’s top restaurants and over 100 unique homebrewed beverages (to include beer, wine, cider, and mead!). Get your tickets early as we will sell out for this limited-ticket event! www.bennington.com/homebrew

Great Barrington Green Drinks When: Thursday, March 1, 2018, 5:30pm Where: The Prairie Whale, 178 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA Cost: Free admission What’s Green Drinks? It’s a free monthly social event for people interested in everything from environmental education to local agriculture, the arts, activism, green business and design, and the ways all of these intersect. So grab a friend or two and bring them down to share what you’re working on (green or not) and meet others in the community. We’ve been meeting monthly since March 2006! www.greendrinks.org, www.facebook.com/ GBGreenDrinks

Northern Berkshire Green Drinks When: Thursday, March 1, 2018, 5:30-7:30pm Where: The Purple Pub, 65 Spring Street, Williamstown, MA Cost: Free admission Northern Berkshire Green Drinks are informal monthly gatherings the first Thursday of the month starting at 5:30pm with special guest speakers at 6:15pm (10-15 min) hosted by The Purple Pub in Williamstown, MA. There’s always a good balance of serious talk and good humor. This event is sponsored by the Residents of the Northern Berkshires. No agendas, fees, or RSVP required (although RSVP is appreciated so we can tell the meeting site what to expect for seating). Green Drinks is a monthly community and www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

7

Is Love Really All You Need?

By Rodelinde Albrecht

“A

ll I know of love is that love is all there is.”

Easy enough for Emily to say. It’s a poet’s prerogative, after all, to distill an idea to its very essence.

Then it’s up to the rest of us to reconstitute that essence through our own understanding, expand it through our own interpretation.

Of course it’s not only poets who seek to plumb the depths of the meaning of love. Lyricists, too, have a strong tendency to use the word love – that pervasive and sublime human emotion – as text and as inspiration. Let’s take a look at some song fragments and see what they might help us discover.

“Love makes the world go round . . . ” Traditionally, love has been divided into three major types: agapé (benevolence), caritas (charity), and eros (sexual passion).

Cynics might say that the human race can propagate itself just fine, thank you very much, without love having to get into the mix. Romantics like me (and maybe you) will insist that eros is mostly what keeps babies happening all around the world.

And idealists like me (and maybe you) are convinced that only through agapé – and not at all through hate – do we have a hope of surviving as a species. We can show benevolence by being kind to strangers as well as to those who will love us back.

We can show it by forgiving those who have hurt us. We can show it by refusing to prejudge people. On a wider scale, we can demonstrate benevolence through caritas: giving of our time and our resources to the best of our ability.

“What the world needs now is love . . . ” It doesn’t take much looking around to see that we benighted human beings have gotten ourselves into quite a pickle. I’ve read that it’s estimated that there have been only 230 years of peace throughout the civilized world over the last 3,500 years.

That’s less than seven percent of that time span. The reasons for war are innumerable, but they seem to boil down to greed and hatred, two all-too-prevalent faults of human beings. Are there any antidotes to these failings? Yes: there’s wisdom, education, civilized behavior, thoughtfulness. And, above all, there’s love, in all of its manifestations.

8

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

“Someone to love is the answer . . . ” As a rule, healthy people long to be loved, but incoming love is not always within our reach. What is within our reach, if we are willing to make the effort, is being the one who loves. Being active rather than passive is satisfying, healing, and empowering. And there’s another benefit too. I’ve heard it said that when you love someone, you want to be a better person, so a nice side effect of loving is that we become better people: more appealing . . . and more lovable.

“There was love all around but I never . . . ” Open your eyes to the possible. Sometimes the routine of our daily life can preoccupy us so much that we can’t see the beauty and wonder around us. We need to pay special attention to see miracles or they’ll simply pass us by. Paradoxically, if we’re looking for a particular someone to love, we may need to close our eyes and open our heart, because the heart can see what the eyes might overlook.

“If you’re in love, show me! ” Words of love, so sweet and tender, can charm us and warm us.

But when “my fair lady,” the feisty Liza Doolittle, implores Freddy “Don’t talk of stars, burning above,” she clearly means that actions speak louder than words. Yes, she means hugs and kisses, but there are so many other ways of showing our love. This Valentine’s Day (and any day of the year) you can demonstrate your love with gestures small or grand. Give a gift that really means something, that you’ve chosen with the person you love in mind. Remember that a gift need not be an object; it can be a ticket or certificate to an event or an adventure. A skiing trip. A spa day. A helicopter ride.

A sunset sail. A concert of very special music.

I’d like to leave you with just a single thought:

“What’s love got to do with it? ” Everything. ~ Rodelinde Albrecht “knows something about love.” For more than thirty years, she’s helped people find each other through Concerned Singles, the introduction service for intelligent, thoughtful, involved singles who care about peace, justice, and our planet earth. www.concernedsingles.com

love & romance

Business Services

love’s synergy

“It was her compassion that was so pretty.”

LOVE MEANS LOOKING TOGETHER IN THE SAME DIRECTION

T

ogether, we can do more than we can alone. Today, more than ever before, what we need is someone to walk beside us who feels as we do about our world, who cares about other people, and who wants to help make things right. If you are still searching for that someone, if you want a love that’s more than just a flash in the pan, a love with staying power, a love that means moving forward together into a life that’s nourishing and fulfilling, join the Concerned Singles community. ~ Rodelinde Albrecht, Director

Close your eyes. open your heart. concernedsingles.com

bespoke cabinetry

L

(413) 274-1122 • www.HartsvilleDesign.com

WHERE ARTISTRY AND FUNCTIONALITY MEET

ooking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift? How often do we have the opportunity to get exactly what we want right down to the last detail? Choose the color, grain, size, shape, texture, hardware, and budget . . . and have it fit perfectly anywhere in your home or office. Be practical or wildly creative. Enjoy the luxury of bespoke cabinetry with beautiful hardwoods and simple clean lines or exotic veneers and whimsical curves. Hartsville Design can create a gift that will be treasured for generations to come.

we love to contour NEED A SPECIAL LOOK FOR A ROMANTIC EVENING OUT?

Y

ou’ve all heard of it, but what exactly does it mean to contour and how do you do it? For starters, you don’t have to be a Kardashian makeup artist to achieve perfect results.

Contouring with makeup means to create shadows and highlights to accentuate your natural features. When learning to contour there are two main techniques: lowlighting and highlighting.

Lowlighting refers to using a darker shade of color on the areas of your face that you want to recede or deemphasize. In this case, using a matte product rather than a frosty or shimmery product is best. The opposite of lowlighting is highlighting. Highlighting refers to using a lighter shade of color on the areas of your face that you want to emphasize or bring forward. In this case you can use either a matte or a shimmery product, whichever you prefer.

Need help? Face Haven makes beauty as easy as possible.

Owner and makeup artist Sherie Ross believes makeup should be fun, effortless, and enhance your inner confidence. Whether you just want to buy a new lipstick, have a full skincare or makeup consultation or lesson, or receive a professional makeup application for a special occasion, Sherie is there to guide you and help you select the right product that will address your concerns and complement your personal style. Looking for everyday skincare and makeup advice? Stop by Face Haven’s elegant Great Barrington studio for a visit, 10am ’til 5pm every day except Sunday.

Love to Contour ?

Chisel your features to perfection in three super-easy steps with Jane Iredale’s new Great Shape Contour Kits in warm or cool. You’ll also love these new must-have essential mineral makeup contour brushes made with the finest fibers for effortless application and gorgeous results.

Face Haven, 323 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA | (413) 528-4053 www.facehavenbeauty.com

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

9

shop local gift guide

winter giftguide

LOVE

Handcrafted Glass Pendants / Cheshire Glass

Give the gift of love and light. A one-of-a-kind, handcrafted glass pendant will be sure to steal her heart. Glass is fascinating and eye catching! Cheshire Glassworks, run by artist/owner Jill Reynolds, is an independently owned studio and gallery located in the northern Berkshires filled with everything from sparkling pendants, earrings, bracelets, and rings, to whimsical glass vases and imaginative sculptures. Jill lovingly creates each and every piece with the magic of fire, glass, and brilliant color. Visit Cheshire Glassworks at 24 South Street, Cheshire, MA. (413) 743-7828, www.cheshireglassworks.com

Fantastical Art of Tony DiTerlizzi IMAGINE The Norman Rockwell Museum

a RELAX

“Never Abandon Imagination: The Fantastical Art of Tony DiTerlizzi” exhibition catalog and print. Personally signed by the artist, available while supplies last! Exclusive companion catalog to the Norman Rockwell Museum exhibition, paperback, 96 pages - $20. Poster size giclée print (24” x 32”) produced exclusively for the exhibition, printed with archival-quality pigment inks on high-resolution, large format 12-color printers - $55. Norman Rockwell Museum holds the world’s largest, most significant collection of original Rockwell art and features the work of other American illustrators. The museum is dedicated to education and art appreciation inspired by Norman Rockwell’s legacy.

Open daily, year-round. 9 Glendale Road/Route 183, Stockbridge, MA (413) 298-4100, www.nrm.org

Natural Bath Salts / Wonderful Things

Who doesn’t love a long, hot bath with a luxurious bath product? Whispering Willow bath salts (in lavender, lemongrass, and rose) and soaps will help relieve aching joints, and freshen and soften your skin while providing a mild relaxing scent. Wonderful Things, owned by Harry and Debbie Sano, also has the largest selection of yarn, needlework, and craft supplies in the area along with a wide array of handcrafted gifts. Give the special person in your life these luxurious bath salts, a fabulous selection of yarn or other craft item, or a gift certificate. Visit 232 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (413) 528-2473, www.wonderful-things.com

10

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

shop local gift guide

Kits / Face Haven CONTOUR Contour Chisel your features to perfection in three

super-easy steps with contour kits by Jane Iredale in warm or cool. You’ll also love these new must-have essential mineral makeup contour brushes made with the finest fibers for effortless application and gorgeous results.

Face Haven owner Sherie Ross has the perfect studio for a makeup consultation – located on the corner of Bridge and Main Streets in Great Barrington, a private, well-lit space secluded from window onlookers. Open 10am until 5pm every day except Sunday. You will find natural healthy products that will address your concerns and complement your personal style. Visit Face Haven at 323 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. (413) 528-4053, www.facehavenbeauty.com

NOURISH

Gift Baskets / Berkshire Organics

Our signature gift basket highlights the finest the area has to offer with locally made jam and granola, honey and maple syrup, Ooma Tesoro homemade marinara sauce, Klara’s cookies, Berkshire Bark, a fresh assortment of freshly picked local apples and pears, and much, much more. Beautifully arranged in a wicker basket, wrapped with a bow, and delivered to their door. Help support our local community of farmers, producers, and artisans while delighting everyone on your list! Available in three sizes year round to suit your gift-giving needs. All of our gifts are available for shipping, and will be shipped in a gift box with the Berkshire Organics logo.

Visit Berkshire Organics at 813 Dalton Division Rd, Dalton, MA, or order online.

(413) 442-0888, www.berkshireorganics.com

a

Chocolate / Chocolate Springs TREAT Gourmet Joshua Needleman, the proprietor of Chocolate

Springs, is a master at the art of chocolate. Treat everyone you care about to decadent chocolate gift box assortments. In addition to classic assortments and themed collections in your choice of dark, milk, and white chocolate flavors, specialty chocolates include truffles, ganache, vegan and gluten-free selections, and chocolate-covered cookies, crackers, fruits, and nuts made fresh every day using only the finest seasonal and organic ingredients whenever possible. And let's not forget the award-winning hot chocolate! Chocolate Springs is a European-style chocolate and dessert café with decades of experience in crafting the finest handmade bonbons.

Visit Chocolate Springs Café in person at 55 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, MA, or order online. (413) 637-9820, www.chocolatesprings.com

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

11

A Winter Salad

by Guido’s Fresh Marketplace

S ome of the best salads are to be had in the winter. This stunning combination of radicchio and potatoes topped with a zingy dressing is just perfect. The fried cheese is an added bonus. Recipe from Rachel Oberg of Guido’s Fresh Marketplace’s Great Barrington store produce department. Serves 4.

Salad 1 T neutral high-heat oil 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled if desired, cut into 1 cm cubes ¼ tsp kosher salt ¼ cup Parmesan cheese 1 head radicchio or 2 heads endive, leaves separated and roughly chopped

3 red radishes or 1 watermelon or purple daikon radish, very thinly sliced Freshly ground pepper

Dressing ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 1 T balsamic vinegar 2 T red wine vinegar 1½ tsp maple syrup 1½ tsp Dijon mustard ¼ tsp kosher salt Freshly ground pepper

Directions 1) Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Heat the oil and add the potatoes. Cook, stirring frequently, until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle the potatoes with the salt as they cook.

2) Wipe out the pan and return it to medium heat. Add the parmesan in small, flat rounds, creating bite-sized cheese crackers. Fry until crispy, cooking in batches if needed.

3) Combine the olive oil, vinegars, maple syrup, mustard, ¼ teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper in a jar with a tightfitting lid. Shake to combine. Taste, and add more salt or pepper if you like.

4) Combine the greens, radishes, and potatoes in a bowl. Toss with dressing, and spread out on a platter. Top with cheese crisps and freshly ground pepper. ~ Guido’s Fresh Marketplace (located in Great Barrington and in Pittsfield), www.guidosfreshmarketplace.com 12

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

food & drink

NORTH EGREMONT COUNTRY STORE NEWLY EXPANDED DELI - FOOD MENU!

Wholesome ● Homestyle ● Delicious SoCo Ice Cream ● Local Free-Range Eggs Milk ● Liquor ● Beer ● Wine ● Pastries Lotto ● Post Office ● Fishing Bait Photo by John Phelan

Route 71, North Egremont, MA (Near Prospect Lake)

Call (413) 528-4796

Haflinger Haus

warm hearts & WE food delicious BERKSHIRE

CO-OP MARKET www.berkshire.coop

Restaurant  Tavern  Inn

Austrian-American Cuisine

17 Commercial Street, Adams, MA 413-743-2221 Welcome to the Haflinger Haus!

LOCATED AT 17 COMMERCIAL STREET, ADAMS, MA 01220

Special Valentine’s Day Menu 5-9pm. Call for reservations.

www.haflingerhaus.com

~ The Haflinger Haus Restaurant and Inn was voted Best of the Berkshires two years in a row ~ From Wiener Schnitzel, Hungarian Goulash, and Lobster Spätzle, to fresh seafood, steaks and pasta, we bring the best of Austrian and American cuisines to the Berkshires ~ Dine in the beautiful fireplaced dining room, the casual tavern or seasonal outdoor Biergarten where you can catch a glimpse of our vegetable and herb garden ~ Make it a special treat and stay over in one of our guest rooms located upstairs in this turn of the century mansion ~ We also host special events Like us on Facebook and see our weekly specials

½

entrées available

D-e-e-licious!

Tues-Sat dinner only • 150 Main St., Lee 413.243.6397 cheznousbistro.com www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

13

animal talk

Rabbits Will Chew . . . AND CHEW, AND CHEW / By Dawn Allen

P

et rabbits will chew your stuff. Really they will. A number of people have asked me how I keep our rabbit from chewing our wires.

Well, my answer is . . . I move my wires.

Rabbits instinctively need to chew (and chew and chew) daily to keep their teeth from growing too long. That may be why your rabbit chews things like your baseboards. Maybe. But it is not usually why your rabbit chews wires.

Rabbits plan their escape routes in advance. When you see a wild bunny zigzagging through a meadow into the briars, that is not random behavior. In an absolute emergency a rabbit may go off course, but normally their escape has been carefully practiced and planned. They run the course daily, clipping any vines or briars out of the way so they have a clear, rabbit-sized path that they can move through swiftly when being chased.

Rabbits usually like to plan sneaky escapes, so squeezing behind

CARING FOR PETS SINCE 1957 Your trusted source for quality foods and supplies.

Your trusted resource for raw-feeding information and advice.

the couch is a favorite path of many pet rabbits. People often hide wires behind their furniture, so naturally your rabbit’s only option is to clip those intrusive “vines” to keep his escape route clear.

My rabbit, Bramley, used to keep our entire couch “clean” as it was one of his escape routes. He would pick up my daughter’s books and toys with his mouth and toss each one like a Frisbee onto the floor. Once the entire couch was clear he would flop down and relax.

Moral of the story: Your rabbit will plan an escape route (or two or three). You can learn what his plan is by watching how he hops through the house, and then you can plan accordingly, making sure you don’t place anything in his path that you don’t want chewed. (Bear in mind that sometimes a rabbit may even decide your couch is in the way.)

I know it would be nice if we could just tell our rabbits not to chew. And sometimes that works or at least helps, but going against their nature is very difficult. Moving your stuff is generally easier and less stressful in the long run. ~ Dawn Allen has worked professionally as an animal communicator since February 1998. Prior to that she was a student at Goddard College where she studied holistic methods of working with animals. She spent one year as an intern for Linda Tellington-Jones, Founder of Tellington TTouch™. Dawn also studied under animal communicators and authors Penelope Smith and Dawn Hayman and has continued to develop her understanding of animals from their point of view. Dawn lives in Westfield Massachusetts with her husband, Tim, daughters Sierra and Hannah, two cats, a horse, two donkeys, and a rabbit. www.dawnallen.org

BENSDOTTER’S PET 413-528-4940 940 MAIN STREET, GREAT BARRINGTON, MA 01230

Convenient Location with Ample Parking on Route 7 less than a minute south of Guido’s

Mon-Fri 10a-6p

Sat-Sun 10a-4p

www.bensdotters.com 14

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Advocates for Community Cats Celebrating10 10years years as Celebrating as Raising awareness through advocacy, education, and action.

Champions forCommunity Community Cats Volunteer for ● Donate ● Learn more Champions Cats

413.528.1328 413-997-2287 413.528.1328

P.O.Box Box1073, 1073,Pittsfield, Pittsfield,MA MA01202 01202 P.O.

find us on find us on

www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org

animal talk

C

onveniently located on Route 7 on the quiet south side of Great Barrington, BensDotter’s Pet is owned by Kristina “Tina” Dow, and is operated by Tina and her husband, Larry. BensDotter’s offers quality foods, equipment, and supplies for dogs, cats, and parrots. The store’s lovely atmosphere, combined with Tina’s commitment to and expertise in natural feeding and holistic pet care, distinguishes it as a destination for discerning pet lovers from the tristate area.

Q: Tina, how did you get started?

Q: What does BensDotter’s Pet offer?

A: I think the most important thing we offer is a deeply personal understanding and appreciation of how important our pets are to us, how much they enrich our lives, how deeply we love them, and how integral they are to the essence of our family. Putting that together with our technical understanding of the formulation of modern-day pet foods, our knowledge of alternative therapies, our ideas about what constitutes really, truly holistic pet care, and, “I quickly realized as well, our awareness of what the nuances of that I needed to be our pets’ behaviors tell us about their health and well-being, means that we are able to able to freely voice offer a unique perspective on pet care, and, and promote the in particular, the important role of pet food natural feeding and in pet care. Based on what our customers pet care I had come tell us, it’s that perspective and expertise that keep our customers coming back, and to believe in, and us many referrals from customers and so BensDotter’s Pet bring veterinarians alike.

A: When I retired 12 years ago after 30 years as a college administrator, owning and operating a retail pet supply store was just about the furthest thing from my mind. I had worked as a veterinary assistant, nurse, and technician while in college, and decided that would be a good thing to get back into in my retirement, not only to save a bit of money on pet care, but also because my interest in pet care had grown, came into being: A not diminished, over the 30 years since college.

Not only had I immersed myself in the world little bit conventional, Q: What is your philosophy? of dog showing, training, and breeding, I had a little bit alternative, A: For those of us at BensDotter’s, it’s all about also pursued extensive self-study in the areas healthier pets and happier pet families. a whole lot different!” of natural feeding and holistic pet care, and it was my expertise in raw-feeding that led to Q: How can we find you? invitations for me to manage two different retail pet supply stores BensDotter’s Pet is located at 940 Main Street in Great in the tristate area, both of which were affiliated with veterinary Barrington, Massachusetts, less than a minute south of Guido’s hospitals. Through those two management positions I learned a Fresh Marketplace and the Big Y Supermarket. We’re open great deal about the mechanics of operating a retail pet supply Monday though Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday and Sunday business, but I also learned that my definition of natural feeding 10am-4pm, and our parking is ample and convenient. Although and holistic pet care was not quite in sync with what was being we’re struggling with getting our Facebook act together, follow promoted by most veterinarians, even the self-described “holistic” us anyway so you don’t miss any of our in-store events, as well ones. I quickly realized that I needed to be able to freely voice and as links to our articles and columns we’ll be republishing in that promote the natural feeding and pet care I had come to believe in, forum. Feel free to call (413) 528-4940, and join our mailing list at and so BensDotter’s Pet came into being: A little bit conventional, www.bensdotters.com in order to receive appropriate reminders a little bit alternative, a whole lot different! and alerts. Cheers to our healthier pets! www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

15

home & garden

Indoor Succulents EASY-TO-CARE-FOR PLANTS THAT CAN BRIGHTEN YOUR HOME THIS WINTER / By Barbara Herring

F

or many years now people have been growing indoor plants and sometimes have not succeeded. If you are one of the people who have struggled, then you may wish to consider indoor succulents. They are the easiest-to-care-for indoor plants and survive with minimal effort.

The key to the plant’s survival is that they have adapted to dry indoor environments perfectly due to their thick stems, enlarged roots, and fleshy leaves. Because of these adaptations the plants can hold more water than usual, allowing them to survive longer in dry conditions.

This is especially helpful during the winter when the humidity level in our homes is low. Following are my top six recommendations for indoor succulents and how to properly care for them.

Crown of Thorns

T

he crown of thorns is a vinelike plant with thorns that is popular as an indoor plant and sometimes as a garden shrub. In appearance it has stout grey thorns and oval leaves that tend to drop as they age. This plant can also flower year round with a cluster of small flowers surrounded by two light red leaflike structures that live below the flowers.

Pincushion Cactus

P

incushion cactus is a somewhat upside-down pineapple shape that varies from a brownish color to a bright green or deep forest green. Certain strains of this plant grow bright pink/purple flowers on top and are very spiny.

Care Instructions: Being a very simple plant, it doesn’t take much care and is one of the better plants for beginners. Plant it in very gritty soil that has been well drained and allowed to completely dry out between waterings. Water moderately and as extra care, feed it every two to three weeks with a liquid fertilizer. In the winter it is best to keep the pincushion cactus almost completely dry.

Snake Plant

T

he snake plant looks similar to aloe vera plants but tends to stand more straight and has thicker leaves. In maturity, the leaves are dark green with light grey bands, and sometimes there is a lighter green outline on the leaves.

Care Instructions: Crown of thorns is a fairly hardy plant that can thrive in many types of conditions. It highly benefits from very little maintenance, so as it matures only lightly prune it. If you happen to notice rotting or brown patches on stems or leaves, trim these to prevent it from spreading. When watering this plant, water it well and then leave the soil to dry around 50 percent before watering again during the growing season. When it stops flowering, reduce the amount of water but never let it dry out completely.

At the end of each growing season remove any dead leaves and flowers that have begun to deteriorate, and branches that lack leaves, to stimulate new growth in spring.

Care Instructions: To properly care for a snake plant, position it in an east, west, or north window throughout the year. If you place it in a southfacing window, ensure that it is at least one foot from the window and turned to its side year round.

If possible, use some sheer drapes in order to filter the intense sunlight, and turn the pot a quarter turn every week for even exposure. Like the pincushion cactus, allow it to dry between waterings and water less during the winter months.

Burro’s Tail

B

urro’s tail has a look of woven leaves and is a grey to green, or even a bluish green color. It may have a slightly chalky look; however, this is of no concern as that is natural in this plant. It produces very long stems that hang down, similar to the way some bonsai trees do but it has a very different look with its long fleshy leaves.

Care Instructions: To care for this plant, you should place it in a shaded area that still gets some bright light or partial sun.

If you fail to provide these conditions then your plant will actually burn under the hot sun. As for watering, be careful not to overwater as the leaves store water and will rot if you provide too much. Watering every 10 to 15 days should be great for this plant; just give it a thorough drink when doing so. When the days are warmer, water it every 9 to 12 days to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

16

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Ponytail Palm

T

he ponytail palm is somewhat of an unusual plant. It has a bulbshaped trunk and very long curly leaves that are a bright green to dark green color and it’s quite visually appealing. The ponytail palm isn’t actually a palm nor a tree, it’s a part of the agave family.

Care Instructions: This plant needs very little care as it actually requires dry soil in order to thrive. Water it from spring throughout the fall, but allow the soil to dry on the surface in between. Only water occasionally during winter. Fertilize your plant once a year in the spring and move to a brighter room in the summer months. Repot your ponytail palm every other year in a container that is an inch or two bigger than the last. continued on page 18

home & garden

Indoor Succulents CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 / By Barbara Herring

Jade Plant

In Conclusion

J

ade plants are actually considered to be a lucky plant and this is why many people choose to have them in their homes. It’s an evergreen plant with thick branches and shiny, smooth, fleshy leaves that grow in opposite pairs along the branches.

These plants are usually a very rich green color but can also sometimes appear yellow.

Indoor succulents can make an amazing feature to your home. They are very attractive and require minimal effort to care for. Almost anyone can successfully keep them and have them thrive within their home. Special Note: Succulents tend to be bothered less frequently by insect pests than other houseplants, but should you have a problem try a natural remedy such as garlic bug spray. See my website for a baking soda mixture that can be used for fungus.

Care Instructions: When caring for your jade plant be sure to water it properly – you can’t let it dry out completely; however, watering it too often will cause it to contract root rot very quickly. You shouldn’t have a schedule to water your jade plant, rather water it when the soil begins to feel dry. Unlike the other succulents on this list, jade plants need full sunlight to grow properly or their growth will be stunted. Fertilize every six months or so.

~ Barbara Herring, a resident of Kentucky, found Our BerkshireTimes magazine online and requested to share some of her informative articles with our readers. Barbara describes herself as a self-sufficient gardener (as much as one can be!) and is currently working on a food production system on her four-acre property near Kentucky Lake. In 2009 after a job loss and the subsequent economic crisis, she set about documenting and relaying her 33 years of knowledge in the realms of gardening, hunting, fishing, and other foodgathering activities. www.the10thcircle.com.

Emergency Water & Fire Remediation

FAA Licensed & Insured

ServiceMASTER of the Berkshires ServiceMASTER of Columbia County, NY Full Video Production Company Specializing In Aerial Photography

413-445-5678 800-707-1441 • Licensed • Bonded • Insured

insurance • video your property • special events corporate • real estate tours • land mapping • news 800-707-1441

John Bianco / Matthew Greenfeld, proprietors

(413) 561-3496 • www.dronesonthejob.com

24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

EMERGENCY ON CALL SERVICE ● Emergency Water Damage Remediation Locally Owned ● Emergency Fire, Soot and Smoke Remediation and Operated. ● House Wide and Post Construction Cleaning ● Floor Maintenance ● Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning ● Animal Debris and Odor Clean Up ● Mold and Odor Remediation ● Sewer and Septic Clean Up ● We Will Use Green Cleaning Products Upon Request

Certified & Trained Technicians With More Than 15 Years Experience.

3 Westview Road, Pittsfield, MA

www.ServiceMasteroftheBerkshires.com 18

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Unusual and Thoughtful Gifts A Treasure Trove of Beautiful Things Visit our store in Lee or shop online at ebay: stores.ebay.com/arcnoli

413-358-0170

266 Main Street, Lee, MA gifts@theuptownstore.org

www.theuptownstore.org

home & garden

Drones Are Here To Stay

D

ENTERTAINMENT OR ENVIRONMENTAL MENACE? / By Nina Anderson

rones, more formally known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), are essentially flying robots. They may be remotely controlled or programmed with flight plans so they can fly autonomously.

Applications for drone usage are numerous. While most of us think of using drones to help with real estate sales (only commercial drone pilots can legally provide this service) there are so many other ways they can be effective. Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras can find defects in panels on solar farms and look for leaks in water pipes. They can inspect wind turbines, give a visual look at bridge infrastructure and tall buildings, monitor the progress of major construction projects, help with land surveys, evaluate beach erosion, look for deforestation from disease, and count trees. UASs have been used in search and rescue efforts to spot missing persons and deliver medicine and supplies, to assist lifeguards in monitoring sharks and to quickly deliver life preservers to swimmers. During natural disasters drones can be used for recovery efforts and to review security to help limit looting. Insurance companies utilize them to inspect and evaluate damage for claims (potentially speeding up the process of reimbursement). In Houston after the recent hurricane, for example, an entire “army” of commercial drone pilots were deployed to assess the situation.

On the farming front, drones can be used to support farmers in their efforts to achieve better land management, as a means to measure crop production, and for other agricultural-based needs such as spotting drought or pests so the situation can be immediately remedied before it becomes a costly blight.

The agricultural industry has the potential to use data collected

by UASs to increase arable farming efficiency and reduce the unnecessary use of pesticides and fertilizers. Drones can expose pollutants leaching into our waterways from industry and agriculture, supporting activism such as we see with local attempts to clean up the Housatonic River. They can even be used to assist in archaeological investigations.

Drones are surging in popularity, influencing media and entertainment (not to mention the future of shopping), and the technology offers many new career possibilities. They can be great fun . . . but they are also potentially a big menace and many people are rightfully concerned about privacy issues. If you have purchased your own drone or received one as a gift, the operator’s manual may tell you how to operate it but rarely advises where to and where not to fly. This can apply to airspace where you could conflict with and bring down Life Star (a critical care helicopter service), a private aircraft, or a news drone or copter. Recently, there have been numerous collisions and near misses with aircraft including a military helicopter that collided with a drone not far from the Statue of Liberty. Recreational drone pilots may not be aware of the no-fly-zones near airports and other restricted locations or airspace, and just one air disaster caused by a UAS could cause the industry to implode. Commercial drone pilots

must pass a rigorous FAA written test and are well schooled in legal airspace operation. Not so for the drone hobbyist, although many who have flown radio-controlled aircraft are very responsible and learn the rules. However, there are no licensing or training rules in force for recreational drone flyers!

Another thing to consider is that drones can scare wildlife. At Utah’s Zion National Park a drone scattered bighorn sheep, separating the mothers from their lambs. This incident resulted in the park banning drones without a special permit. UASs have also been banned from other parks where they are considered a risk for wildlife including nesting and migrating. Whether it’s causing animals stress, forcing them to relocate, or putting them in danger of physical harm, the increasing use of drones may be having a negative effect on wildlife in their natural habitats. On the other hand, drone usage has also helped wildlife by monitoring poaching and illegal hunting, and facilitating studies of sea ice dynamics and its impact on polar bear behavior. Drones have been useful in monitoring bird nesting sites, tracking migration, animal/flock counts, and habitat management.

If you plan to use a UAS commercially you must either become an FAA licensed drone pilot or hire one. Just because a recreational UAS operator can fly a drone does not mean they can use it for a commercial venture. There are many restrictions the operator must abide by, with fines and even jail time levied on the unwary pilot if he/she violates the rules. These are all facets that make commercial drone pilots invaluable.

There is no doubt that drones are here to stay. They can definitely be helpful in many ways, but the safety, security, and privacy issues of this new technology must be carefully addressed. Recreational UAV pilots need to learn how to fly responsibly – although they seem like toys, drones are aircraft that can hurt wildlife and people and infringe on privacy. For safety guidelines, see www.tinyurl.com/jt7n68b. ~ Nina Anderson is an FAA remote pilot and an airline transport pilot. She works with Thad Kubis, a drone photographer, providing commercial drone services.

(888) 217-7233. https://nlpberkshires.com/aerial-drone-photography/

Triad Drone Services Exceptional Aerial Photography

Beyond pretty images, TDS offers the visual and marketing strategy you will need to add to your bottom line.

Imagery • Strategy • Profit NLPBerkshires.com/aerial-drone-photography

(888) 217-7233 • thad@tbkphotos.com • FAA Licensed www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

19

health & wellness

Naomi Alson

LIC. ACUPUNCTURIST & HERBALIST

For general wellbeing . . .

With specialized training in: ● Alleviating the side effects chemotherapy ● Infertility ● Herbal treatments ● Regulating the immune system

At Lee Family Practice, Lee, MA

(413) 243-3223  naomifalson@gmail.com

ndy WeOPTICAL

Wendy is a licensed optician with 27 years experience fitting happy customers with beautiful frames and lenses in the Berkshires.

REPAIRS | CLEANING | ADJUSTMENTS

Flex Spend - Use it or Lose it!

56 Elm Street, Pittsfield, MA 413.445.5700 Wed-Sat 10am to 6pm

www.wendyoptical.com

31 Williamstown Rd., Lanesboro, MA 31 Williamstown Rd., Lanesboro, MA

413-442-7007 413-442-7007

Lisa Baumgart Lisa Baumgart,, MPT MPT Restoring Function & Fitness Restoring Function & Fitness

W

e offer a different approach to physical therapy by treating the whole body to while addressing specific areasskofLisa pain or sk Lisa to dysfunction. Providing individualized care with speak to your speak to your 1:1 therapist time promotes consistency in company, club or care and full healing.company, By focusing on finding club or organization successful movement patterns and building organization on this, our patients can achieve healing with complimentary! complimentary! minimal to no discomfort.

A A

~ Lisa Baumgart, MPT, FAFS

“Lisa Baumgart “Lisa Baumgart is a very talented is a very talented healer/therapist. healer/therapist.

In the very first session In the very first she reduced mysession pain she reduced my well over 50%.

Inpain a Greylock PT isIn very well over 50%. few weeks time, Iahad few weeks time, I had proud tonoannounce its almost pain.” almost pain.”

10-yearno - anniversary!

Don Rochelo

Connect | Share | Grow | Prosper June-July 2016 vol 26

Complimentary

(37)

Our BerkshireTimes

™

Local Events | Ho

den | Vibrant Living | Art & Culture

- Don Rochelo

We focus on dynamics Weoffocus on dynamics the whole body to of the whole body to determine your strengths determine your strengths and weaknesses. and weaknesses.

Our unique approach to Our unique approach to physical therapy is called physical therapy is called Applied Functional ScienceApplied or ChainFunctional Reaction Science orTransformation.

Chain Reaction Transformation.

Improve Improve

Mobility Mobility function! function!

greylockpt.com ● 31 Williamstown Road, Lanesboro, MA 20

Grow Your Business with Our BerkshireTimes Magazine

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Art & Culture in the Berkshires / Visit us at www.OurBerkshireTimes.com Cover Art by Deborah Van Auten / www.vanauten.com

 Proudly created without Wi-Fi since 2008.  Independently published and “locally grown.”  Thick, 80lb Forest Stewardship Council certified satin paper with soy ink and eco-friendly satin aqueous coating.

 The power of print plus the web. Find every

issue on our website, issuu.com, and scribd.com.

To advertise call (413) 274-1122 advertise@ourberkshiretimes.com www.ourberkshiretimes.com

health & wellness

Mercury Amalgam “Silver” Fillings

I

WE ARE NOT QUITE SURE WHERE THE LOGIC EXISTS / By Drs. Maureen & Jeffrey Viglielmo

t was many years ago, after we graduated from Georgetown Dental School in 1985, that we both came to the realization that mercury has no place in the human body. It may have been after we heard a local dermatologist, Dr. Alfred Zamm of Kingston, NY, speak of the unique chemistry of mercury and how it can damage all sorts of chemical reactions within us. He had examined numerous patients seeking help for their skin issues and found that many of them experienced improvement when their mercury fillings were removed.

As we now understand, mercury can affect every organ in our body and can cause or worsen many chronic diseases. Some of us are genetically better adapted to detoxify this heavy metal than others, and the health of our detoxification system will also influence our body’s ability to deal with it. In addition, some bacteria such as Lyme disease spirochetes store mercury within themselves and their bacterial colonies complicating diagnosis and treatment of both mercury poisoning and Lyme disease.

It is possible to be exposed to mercury from many sources including eating fish (especially larger fish), vaccines, industrial vapors, fluorescent light bulbs, batteries, over-the-counter products, and more. But the “silver” amalgam fillings in our teeth,

that are actually comprised of about 50 percent elemental mercury, are often our largest source of constant, ongoing exposure and absorption of mercury.

The EPA classifies mercury as a hazardous material, stating in a report that “all forms of mercury are quite toxic and each form exhibits different health effects” (from serious central nervous system malfunction to mental retardation to kidney damage, and more). As a result, mercury has been removed from many products such as thermostats, thermometers, and blood pressure cuffs. You may have heard in the news that even a small spill will close a school until it is properly cleaned up. New York state has mandated that all dental offices have a containment system for mercury containing amalgam scrap after it has been removed from a tooth. Several countries have banned or restricted the use of mercury fillings. And yet, ironically, in this country mercury has not been banned from use in dental fillings. So, basically, it is illegal for us to flush the amalgam down the toilet, yet it is legal for us to place it in your mouth. We are not sure where the logic exists to continue to allow dentists to place mercury fillings.

Next issue, we will discuss how we safely remove amalgam fillings. ~ Drs. Viglielmo Biological Dentistry, (845) 339-1619, www.drvigs.com

Drs. Maureen & Jeffrey Viglielmo Biological Dentistry The beautiful smile we can help you create is the gateway to a healthy body.

As biological dentists we provide safe mercury removal, biocompatible restorations, and customized periodontal therapy. Our office is located in Kingston, NY– a pleasant, scenic drive from the Berkshires and well worth the trip! ● Mercury-safe amalgam removal ● Invisalign® ● Biological periodontal therapy ● Mouthguards ● Customized supportive nutrition ● Intraoral imaging ● iTero® digital goop-less impressions ● Ozone therapy ● Only a little more than one hour from the Berkshires, MA ● Cosmetic & restorative dentistry ● Phase contrast microscope ● Digital radiography

(845) 339-1619 ● www.drvigs.com ● 56 Lucas Ave, Kingston, NY www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

21

Restore Your Confidence

health & wellness

M

IMMEDIATE RESULTS THAT LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION

By Messenger Digital Dentistry

illions of people around the world struggle with loose or poor-fitting dentures. If you have this problem, you already know how embarrassing it is when they slip, how it feels not to be able to eat the foods you love, and how much bother it is dealing with messy denture adhesives. But now TeethXpress® (implantsupported dentures) offers a way to keep your dentures secure, and typically the procedure is completed in just one day!

Restore Your Confidence Too many people who have conventional dentures don’t like to wear them because they don’t stay in place. TeethXpress® will allow you to go about your daily life with confidence. Dentures supported by implants have been successful for hundreds of thousands of people.

The number of patients is growing rapidly due to the effectiveness, long-term durability, and high success rate of the procedure.

Why TeethXpress®?

Loss of bone from dentures can lead to changes in facial features and premature aging. TeethXpress®, like natural teeth, stimulates the jaw and prevents bone loss, and BioHorizons dental implants used exclusively for TeethXpress® have a 99.2 percent success rate.

TeethXpress® Benefits ● Eat the foods you love, while enjoying a better diet ● Enjoy increased comfort with reduced gum tissue irritation

● No more costly and inconvenient denture adhesives ● TeethXpress® can often utilize your existing denture ● No more embarrassment and difficulty speaking because of slipping dentures ● The procedure is minimally invasive and can generally be completed in one day What to Expect During the TeethXpress® procedure, four to six titanium implants are placed into the jaw with abutment posts. Your denture is then attached to the abutments. The procedure can typically be done under local anesthesia and completed in one day. Discomfort from TeethXpress® is usually minor and temporary. A soft diet may be required during the initial healing phase. ~ Messenger Digital Dentistry.

Dr. Messenger is one of three dentists in Massachusetts who is a certified TeethXpress® provider. He is excited that he is able to change a person’s life in a matter of a few hours! www.reasons2smile.com Editor’s Note: Titanium is a metal alloy. People with autoimmune conditions, compromised immune function, galvanic current sensitivities (from more than one type of metal placed in the mouth), electromagnetic sensitivities, or metal allergies, should research these topics and consult their heath care practitioner before considering dental implants. Zirconium implants may be better tolerated. See www. tinyurl.com/ov4ajrf. For metal allergy testing see www.melisa.org.

Messenger Digital Dentistry ● One visit crowns with no impressions. ● Single visit root canal therapy, post, core, and crown. ● Computer guided implant placement allows for less

Dr. Gene Messenger

Dr. Mohammed Forhad

More than 25 Years in Practice Graduate from the University Received Diplomate Status in the IDIA of Pennsylvania Has a Fellowship in ACCD and Special Training in Surgical Extractions, Laser Dentistry from WCLI Bone Grafts, Endodontics, Mentor/Trainer for Implants and Cad Cam and Pediatric Dentistry

1111 South State Street North Adams, MA 01247 22

invasive surgeries and precise implant placement. ● Amalgam (silver)-free fillings. ● Digital x-rays we use allow for 90% less radiation. ● On-site laboratories for denture repairs and relines. ● One visit smile makeovers, veneers, crown, and bridges. ● Computerized periodontal evaluation. ● Advanced Zoom tooth whitening. ● Six Month Smiles - clear braces. ● Extraordinary Dental Care.

(413) 664-6545

www.reasons2smile.com

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Hydro Health

of Western Massachusetts

Colon Hydrotherapy, Ozone Sauna Therapy, and Far Infrared Sauna If you are serious about healing, regenerating, and revitalizing your body, starting a detoxification program will be the most important paradigm shift of your life. ~ Bruce Collingwood

O

n a daily basis we are exposed to, and steadily accumulate, disease-producing toxins through the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat.

Even negative emotions can add to our toxic load. In this age of environmental stressors, these toxins must be removed from our bodies on a regular basis or we set ourselves up for chronic illness.

Bruce Collingwood, the owner of Hydro Health of Western Massachusetts and a certified colon hydrotherapist, says “If you are serious about healing, regenerating, and revitalizing your body, starting a detoxification program will be the most important paradigm shift of your life.” In his hygienic, comfortable Pittsfield, MA, healing center, Bruce offers effective detoxification therapies that can help you make that shift including colon hydrotherapy, ozone sauna, and far infrared sauna.

Q: Bruce, please tell us more about what you do.

A: As an I-ACT certified colon hydrotherapist, I can help you reduce your toxic body burden in my highly personalized, private, clean facility, using state-of-the-art FDA-approved equipment.

Our bodies use many pathways to eliminate toxins. The pathways that I can help you more effectively utilize are your gastrointestinal tract, lymphatic system, and integumentary system (skin). The experience is relaxing and restorative.

Q: How did you get started?

A: For years my wife, Connie, suffered with gut issues including colitis, constipation, IBS, and severe diarrhea. She was introduced to colon hydrotherapy by a therapist in Kansas who had regained her health after being chronically ill, so Connie and I made the decision to become certified and start Hydro Health of Western Massachusetts so we could provide this service for local residents.

Q: Can you describe your therapies in more detail?

A: Colon hydrotherapy (also known as colonic irrigation or high

enema) gently cleanses the colon of waste material using warm water and gentle abdominal massage. The therapeutic effects include improved muscle tone that facilitates peristaltic action of the colon and a reduction of bacterial toxin concentration. Far infrared sauna therapy is one of the safest and most efficient detoxification methods for expelling harmful environmental toxins, insoluble chemical residues, and heavy metals. I also offer relaxing ozone steam sauna therapy, and IonCleanse® foot baths which helps the body detox through the healing power of ions.

Q: What is your philosophy?

A: You will quickly feel like you become part of the family when you visit Hydro Health of Western Massachusetts. You are welcomed into my home where I provide a quality experience in my separate healing center. My clients’ needs are my highest priority.

Contact information Bruce Collingwood, I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist 51 Stearns Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201 (413) 445-7470, bcollingwood@nycap.rr.com

Hydro Health of Western Massachusetts Body Detoxification for Wellness Colon Hydrotherapy (Colonic) Ozone Steam Sauna Therapy Infrared Sauna Therapy IonCleanse® Foot Baths Bruce Collingwood, I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist

(413) 445-7470 ● 51 Stearns Ave, Pittsfield, MA www.hydrohealthwesternmass.com www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

23

mind & spirit

Labyrinths as Sacred Pathways DISCOVER THE DEPTHS OF YOUR SOUL AND COMMUNE WITH THE DIVINE / By Sheilaa Hite

A

labyrinth is a curved, intricately designed, singular path leading to a center and out again.

Unlike a maze, which is built to confound with its multiple entrances, exits, and dead ends, a labyrinth’s function is to guide you on a clear, direct path to Divine Source. Resembling the left and right lobes of the brain, and used to facilitate walking meditation, it offers a way to consciously move from the concerns of the outer world to the depths of the inner world of one’s soul.

Considered a sacred pathway to communion with the Divine, labyrinths have been used by a wide variety of spiritual seekers for more than 4,000 years. They are built indoors, as well as outdoors as part of a garden for private use or on community land that can be accessed by the general public. In the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church began inlaying them within its cathedrals. Today, the most prominent church labyrinths include the twelfth-century cathedral of Chartres, France, and two in the San Francisco based Episcopal church, Grace Cathedral.

Chartres Cathedral is huge and its history and beauty span a millennium. Most of its legendary 176 stained glass windows are original and rival the beauty of the stained glass windows in Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The windows tell the story of Christ and the development of Christianity. There’s even a window with all of the symbols and signs of the zodiac!

I’ve benefited from walking many labyrinths, including the ones at Grace Cathedral. It wasn’t until my recent trip to Chartres Cathedral, though, that I truly underwent a profound soul awakening as I gave myself over to one of the most beautiful spiritual experiences of my life.

Upon entering this huge, timelessly beautiful space, I immediately felt the energy of centuries of faith, devotion, and prayer and I

S

heilaa Hite Intuitive Counselor

Featured in Paulette Cooper’s directory, ‘THE 100 TOP PSYCHICS in AMERICA’

Tarot • Astrology • Palmistry • Psychometry Mediumship • Past Life Regression Hypnotherapy • Life Coach Consultations in Person, by Phone or Skype Classes, Parties and Events

413-637-0085

“SHEILAA’s accuracy rate is 95-100%.”

MANAGER

– MALIBU SHAMAN BOOKSTORE – MALIBU, CA

www.SheilaaHite.com 24

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

knew my being there was a blessing. As my eyes adjusted to the ethereal light of the interior, I saw the labyrinth and the other pilgrims who had come from all over the world. I made my way to one of the chairs in the front row and sat in quiet awe at the immense beauty of the cathedral, the labyrinth, and the open-hearted wonder of all who were gathered there. I silently thanked God for my being there and I asked to be open to receive whatever guidance and messages I had come for.

Then I stood up, took a deep breath, and entered the labyrinth.

There is almost no way to describe the sensation of stepping onto a path that countless numbers of seekers have trod upon for nearly one thousand years. As I began my journey, I became aware of the mind chatter that ceaselessly tries to run my life.

Instead of doing what I usually do – fight it – I simply opened my heart and allowed it to be.

As I did so, I felt a strong wave of beautiful energy wash over me and music started to play. And not just any church music.

Here, in a cathedral in a small French town fifty miles outside of Paris, the tune that I heard was being played on bagpipes! (This was the only music that played during the entire time I was in the cathedral.) I was then given a message that confirmed my soul connection to Scotland. I thanked all that is sacred as tears of joy and gratitude rolled down my cheeks.

In almost every section of the labyrinth, so much happened, so many messages of love were given to me, that by the time I got to the center of the labyrinth, and I was told to remove my shoes and walk the rest of it barefoot, my mind had ceased its chatter and joined my heart. If walking the labyrinth shod was intense, walking it barefoot was a whole other level of traveling. With my shoes on, I could feel that God was in my heart; barefoot, I could feel that I was in God’s heart.

I want everyone to experience this joy, this level of communion and gratitude. Find a labyrinth in your area and walk it often. Go to Chartres. Quiet your mind, listen for your messages, feel your connection to the Divine. Give yourself this gift – you deserve it. ~ Sheilaa Hite, CHt, CLC, is an intuitive counselor, author, teacher, Life/ Success Coach, certified hypnotherapist, and spiritual guide who is listed in Paulette Cooper’s book, The 100 Top Psychics and Astrologers in America. Sheilaa can be reached at (413) 637-0085 and through www.sheilaahite.com.

Editor’s note: You can find a local labyrinth on the grounds of the First Congregational Church of Sheffield, Old Parish Church, www.firstuccsheffield.org, as well as an extensive New England labyrinth locator at www.labyrinthguild.org.

mind & spirit

Ask Vicki

Send Your Questions to vicki@vickibaird.com

By Vicki Baird

F

ifteen years ago, I quit my corporate job to discover my own path. Today, I help people just like you develop your gifts, harness them, and take them out to the world. Welcome to Ask Vicki where I use my Intuitive Life Coach and Belief Repatterning™ experience to answer your questions. If you have a concern (career path, relationships, or mind and spirit related issues) email me at vicki@vickibaird.com.

Hi Vicki!

My friend and I were talking about how sometimes it feels like we seek out new relationships with different people to fill voids in our current romantic relationship. If, for example, after years of marriage, housework, kids, and crazy work schedules you don’t get out or laugh together as much as you used to . . . is it normal and/or healthy to seek that experience with a different person? It’s tricky because it could almost feel dangerous, but sometimes you just want to go out with someone who still enjoys a good beer and can stay up past 10pm on a weekend. ~ Robin, Ashley Falls, MA Robin, It’s a great question and one I agree is healthy to address. I feel that in this scenario as long as the relationship is platonic, then oh my goodness, yes. My husband and I had these friends. He would go on whale watches with one of his female friends because they bored me to tears, and I would never ask him to go to a musical unless it was a doo-wop show. It is important that the trust is there, of course, and that each person realizes it is about being individuals who may enjoy different friendships. If either party feels insecure about it, that would need to be addressed as it is an indication of deeper issues. I think making new connections can actually add to an intimate relationship because we aren’t asking our partners to be something they aren’t. Of course, keeping a strong connection to your partner is the most important element to success. We evolve, and relationships change and hopefully grow. ~Vicki

Dear Vicki,

I have been in a two-year relationship and then a nine-month relationship in the past ten years. The last one ended with him cheating on me multiple times. We were living together, and the betrayal was really difficult on me and my children. My question is: Am I destined to live my life as a single woman? I seem to be attracted to men who end up breaking my heart. Could there be someone out there with the same beliefs, morals, and values in my near future that I can share my life with? ~ Mickey, Hudson, NY Mickey, Thank you for asking how to change this pattern. I know that wasn’t your direct question, but that is what I hear you want. The knowledge of being attracted to those who will break your heart is important to look at, as it can be from a deep hidden belief system. It is often how we feel about ourselves that creates the connection with those that are not the most faithful. I would

suggest you look at why it is that you would, one, move in with someone so early into a relationship (and yes, nine months is early even in these times of speed), and two, where you need to improve your relationship with yourself so that you can discover how to value yourself so much you will be able to more clearly see other’s intentions. I do believe there is someone who aligns with each of us, when we do the work first. ~ Many blessings, Vicki

Dear Vicki,

OK, please answer this question for me; do we have soul mates and have I missed mine? ~ George, Reading, MA George, I’d like to a get right to the point! I do believe we have soul mates, but I don’t believe that we should be asking for them as a life partner. It has been my experience that soul mates are here to help accelerate our growth process here on earth, and it isn’t always through hugs and sweetness. Typically a soul mate is one we have strife and frustrations with, and while we can learn a lot about ourselves in a relationship like this, it can be exhausting. We can have a soul mate relationship with anyone – a parent, a boss, even a pet, as well as with intimate partners. We have hundreds of potential partners in each lifetime. I would rather that you don’t fixate on the idea of finding the one, but rather how to calmly find ways to love yourself more and allow someone into your life who wants to do the same. Have fun with it. ~ Huge heart hugs, Vicki ~ Vicki Baird, Intuitive Life Coach and Certified Belief Re-patterning™ Practitioner. www.vickibaird.com

Vicki Baird Intuitive Life Coach Imagine what could happen . . . if you believed in you!

Experience Belief Re-patterning™ to help you change your belief systems.

(413) 499-9791 Vicki is the only certified practitioner in the USA.

www.vickibaird.com www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

25

Engaging children 15 months through 8th grade

Montessori means

expression

education & workshops

Making Deposits IN OUR RELATIONSHIP BANK ACCOUNTS

By K. Meagan Ledendecker

A

n accidental bump as someone walks by. A look from across the room. A forgotten request.

No big deal, right?

That is, unless we are feeling particularly annoyed or frustrated by something that happened previously. Then we mutter about how we can’t believe so-and-so did that again, or how could they look at us like that, or how dare they, and on and on. Our response tells a lot about how we are feeling about the other person involved.

Often when I find myself facilitating a conversation between two young people, especially one in which there seems to be a long progression of misunderstandings and misinterpretations, I bring up the idea of a relationship bank account.

Sean Covey introduces the relationship bank account (RBA) in his book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens. The essence of RBA is that we have different connections with the people in our lives.

And between each of us we have an unseen measure of how we are connecting. We can visualize that measure as a bank account.

Just like with a bank account, we can make deposits or withdrawals.

When I greet a coworker in the morning with a smile and a compliment, I’m making a deposit. Over time, with lots of deposits, a large cushion of goodwill is created in our relationship bank account. When a large cushion is there, my coworker is likely to be understanding when one morning I have a scowl on my face and barely mumble, “morning.” She might wonder if I’m okay and want to do something to help me feel better.

But let’s imagine, that instead of making regular deposits into our relationship bank account, I’ve either not taken the time for a kind greeting, or perhaps have been complaining about something

she’s done. These little acts end up draining our relationship bank account, like little withdrawals, until there is little to no cushion of goodwill between us. If that’s the case, when I scowl and mumble, “morning,” she reacts with anger and frustration, fed up with my attitude and ready to retaliate.

In simple terms, our relationship bank account is like a cup that gets filled or emptied.

I sometimes draw a cup when working with young people and we graphically fill up the cup as we imagine different acts of goodwill or empty it with little thoughtless or unkind acts. We brainstorm different kinds of deposits we can make, different ways to fill the cup between us.

When we think about the little acts of kindness between us as being a way to build up our relationship bank account, sometimes we are more able to shift gears in how we relate.

Ultimately, we can become more mindful of the actions between us. We can be careful not to bump into each other. We can look across the room with warmth. We can acknowledge a mistake and work to make amends.

When we make deposits, we connect and cultivate goodwill. This season, let’s mindfully make more deposits. ~ K. Meagan Ledendecker regularly takes stock of her relationship bank accounts both with her three children and with her husband, as well as with the many children and families involved with The Montessori School of the Berkshires. www.berkshiremontessori.org www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

27

crafts & hobbies

Sew Much Fun! THE SATISFACTION OF THE ACT OF CREATION

By Rodelinde Albrecht

aybe it’s because I love my sewing machine so much (it’s a vintage Singer I affectionately call Nana) that I’ve always assumed that Isaac Merritt Singer invented the sewing machine. But I thought I’d better check on that before writing this article. Here’s some of what I learned.

M

embellishments from prosaic zippers and snaps and seam binding to decorative buttons and woven borders and sparkly beads and sequins and intricate lace and fanciful fringes and.... golly, doesn’t the thought of all that possibility make you want to run right out and get whatever you need to make something extraordinary?

It turns out that what Singer did was improve upon the design of the first practical sewing machine, which was patented by Elias Howe in 1846. But even Elias didn’t come up with the idea himself. The first person to mechanize the typical motions of hand sewing was a French tailor by the name of Barthelemy Thimonnier. (He planned to mass-produce uniforms for French soldiers.) This was in 1830. But going back even further, a London cabinetmaker, Thomas Saint, successfully patented a rudimentary sewing machine in 1790. His machine was never built, but the plans for it were discovered in the 1800s. The design needed to be modified before the machine would actually work, but this was an important step on the road to the modern sewing machine. Isn’t the evolution of technology fascinating?

But maybe you never learned to sew. Nowadays, with clothing so affordable and so readily available, who needs to know how to sew? And yet there’s clearly been a resurgence of interest in the way people used to do things when no other options were available. And I don’t think that it’s just nostalgia. As more and more things are done for us, made for us, many of us experience a need to do things ourselves, to make things ourselves. It’s one small way of reclaiming a measure of autonomy, the satisfaction of the act of creation, even a way of giving a present that involves more than the mere spending of money.

Hand sewing, of course, was invented much, much earlier; thousands of years ago in fact. Perhaps for the sake of modesty but certainly for protection from the elements, our caveman (caveperson?) ancestors fashioned crude garments by joining hides and furs, using needles handmade from bone, and animal sinew or strips of hide for thread.

If you want to acquire a new and rewarding skill, there are any number of ways you can learn. There’s YouTube, of course (just Google “sewing lessons youtube”). Stores such as JoAnn Fabrics in Pittsfield, MA, offer classes at all levels, even for children. If you’d like to learn quilting, Pumpkin Patch in Lee, MA, can help. Or if you have a friend who sews and is willing to teach you, what a great way to spend time enjoying each other’s company while creating something beautiful.

Just imagine if you had to go out and catch the source of your fabric and thread and prepare it yourself! How easy, by contrast, we have it today. We can walk into a store and choose from a dizzying array of textiles and thread, not to mention all the

~ Rodelinde Albrecht loves to make things.

Even her organization, Concerned Singles, creates something: the opportunity for people of like mind to find one another. Find out more at www.concernedsingles.com. See ad page 9.

28

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

crafts & hobbies

Business Services

knit & crochet

NE BUY O E N O T E G SALE! FREE

VISIT US TO BEGIN YOUR CREATIVE JOURNEY

F

ellowship and community building are crucial for humans to share knowledge and grow in spirit. My favorite time at The Spin-Off Yarn Shop is Sit & Knit, when knitters from all walks of life gather with infectious enthusiasm. Whatever the reason we knit and crochet – to escape life’s stressors, keep hands busy, or for creative outlet – knitting provides health benefits by exercising the brain and developing spatial skills, focus, and concentration.

Visit us to begin your creative journey. ~ Beth Phelps, Proprietor

Join us for Sit & Knit!

Wed & Fri 2-4pm and Wed 5-7:30pm All skill levels welcome.

Open Wed-Thurs 12-5pm, Fri-Sat 10-5pm

130 Water Street, Lower Level, Williamstown, MA

www.spinoffyarnshop.com ● (413) 344-6257

enjoy writing . . .

BUT NEED A LITTLE HELP TO TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL?

I

t takes a true love of words and a keen sense of what makes this language of ours so exquisite to gently but firmly and thoroughly polish the glory from a work of prose. Rodelinde Albrecht is a Brown-educated, highly experienced freelance copyeditor, proofreader, and translator. From a yellow farmhouse in the Berkshires, with the company of a cat named Minerva, she makes the English language her life and her livelihood. A more pleasant and dedicated associate is not to be found.

simply wonderful

Now celebrating our 45th Year!

Wonderful Things

A GOURMET CANDY STORE FOR FIBER ARTISTS

W

Largest Selection of Yarns and Unique Handcrafted Gifts in the Berkshires

onderful Things, owned by Harry and Deborah Sano, has the largest selection of yarn, needlework, craft supplies, and handcrafted gifts in the area. As one customer aptly put it, Wonderful Things is a gourmet candy store for fiber artists of all types and skill levels!

Check out their Facebook page and website to see just some of the craft supplies and American-made and artisan gifts that they carry.

Stop in to browse, for supplies, to buy a gift, for a free knitting lesson, or just to ask a question. Gift certificates available.

S

Gift Certificates  Free Knitting Lessons Open Mon-Sat 9:30-5, Sun 12-4 232 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA (413) 528-2475 ● www.wonderful-things.com

small pieces of wood Need small pieces of wood for a project?

I may have some left over from a job.

Contact Kevin at kevin@hartsvilledesign.com

H

FOR A VARIETY OF CRAFTS AND HOBBIES

artsville Design Woodworking has, from time to time, small batches of wood leftover from woodworking jobs that are perfect for a variety of crafts and hobbies. Reasonably priced, sold by the piece or by the box. To find out what is currently available email Kevin at kevin@hartsvilledesign.com.

Hartsville Design is a custom cabinetry and woodworking shop that specializes in cabinetry, architectural millwork, fine furniture, kitchens, bathrooms, home offices, restorations, and repair. www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

29

HAVE YOU HEARD? TO LOVE DOGS SWEET LOVE CATS

Love is friendship that has caught fire. It is quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weaknesses. ~ Ann Landers

Feel the love. If you have a pet, remember that just a few minutes of petting your dog or cat can promote the release of your body’s “happiness” hormones, including oxytocin.

LMLM

Thank you!

A heartfelt thank you to all of our readers, writers, and advertisers since 2008. We sincerely appreciate your patronage. ~ Kathy, Kevin & Brianna Regan Our BerkshireTimes Magazine

b

M

THE INTELLIGENT HEART

any of the changes in bodily function that occur during the coherence state revolve around changes in the heart’s pattern of activity. While the heart is certainly a remarkable pump, interestingly, it is only relatively recently in the course of human history – around the past three centuries or so – that the heart’s function has been defined (by Western scientific thought) as only that of pumping blood. Historically, in almost every culture of the world, the heart was ascribed a far more multifaceted role in the human system, being regarded as a source of wisdom, spiritual insight, thought, and emotion.

Intriguingly, scientific research over the past several decades has begun to provide evidence that many of these long-surviving associations may well be more than simply metaphorical. These developments have led science once again to revise and expand its understanding of the heart and the role of this amazing organ.

In the new field of neurocardiology, for example, scientists have discovered that the heart possesses its own intrinsic nervous system – a network of nerves so functionally sophisticated as to earn the description of a “heart brain.” Containing over 40,000 neurons, this “little brain” gives the heart the ability to independently sense, process information, make decisions, and even to demonstrate a type of learning and memory. In essence, it appears that the heart is truly an intelligent system. Research has

30

Joy is the simplest form of gratitude.

Winter 2018 | www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

~ Karl Barth

b

also revealed that the heart is a hormonal gland, manufacturing and secreting numerous hormones and neurotransmitters that profoundly affect brain and body function. Among the hormones the heart produces is oxytocin – well known as the “love” or “bonding hormone.” Science has only begun to understand the effects of the electromagnetic fields produced by the heart, but there is evidence that the information contained in the heart’s powerful field may play a vital synchronizing role in the human body – and that it may affect others around us as well.

Research has also shown that the heart is a key component of the emotional system. Scientists now understand that the heart not only responds to emotion, but that the signals generated by its rhythmic activity actually play a major part in determining the quality of our emotional experience from moment to moment. These heart signals also profoundly impact perception and cognitive function by virtue of the heart’s extensive communication network with the brain. Finally, rigorous electrophysiological studies conducted at the HeartMath Institute have even indicated that the heart appears to play a key role in intuition. Although there is much yet to be understood, it appears that the age-old associations of the heart with thought, feeling, and insight may indeed have a basis in science. ~ Article made available by HeartMath LLC., www.heartmath.com

featured advertisers

BENSDOTTER’S PET 413-528-4940

An education for life.

e date!

Save th st Fe Winter 20

Toddler Children’s House Elementary Adolescent Summer

940 MAIN STREET, GREAT BARRINGTON, MA

Jan 9-12

BerkshireMontessori.org

Quality Foods, Equipment, and Supplies

413.637.3662

Tours by appointment

MORE THAN 30 YEARS IN BUSINESS It's time for your winter tune-up.

We'll be happy to check your wipers, tire pressure, and anti-freeze.

Alignments ● A/C ● Brakes ● Timing Belts ● Much More!

W

Convenient Location with Ample Parking

ILLIAMS & KINGSLEY

on Route 7 less than a minute south of Guido’s

AUTO REPAIR, INC.

Monday-Friday 10a-6p

413-442-1620 ● 763 East Street, Pittsfield, MA

Saturday-Sunday 10a-4p

Serving ServingBerkshire BerkshireCounty CountySince Since1844 1844

GENERAL MERCHANDISE

The Areas #1 Power Equipment Dealer

“Service, in the true sense of the word, has been our business since 1937.”

At H.D. Reynolds, we always spend whatever time it takes to listen to your needs and help you match them with the right product for the job. We provide parts, sales, and service, and are here to answer questions before, during, and after the sale so you getCounty the mostSince out of 1844 your equipment purchase.

Serving Serving Berkshire Berkshire County Since 1844

1844 1844 - J.B. - J.B. Dean Dean & Son & Son opens opens for business for business

1844 1844 - J.B. - J.B. Dean Dean & Son & Son opens opens for business for business

1844 - J.B. Dean & Son opens for business

1937 1937 - Harold - Harold D. Reynolds D. Reynolds purchases purchases business business

1997 - Business - Business incorporates incorporates withwith George George and and James James Reynolds Reynolds 1967 - Stanley - Stanley Reynolds Reynolds purchases purchases business business fromfrom his his father father 1997 1937 1937 - Harold - Harold D. Reynolds D. Reynolds purchases purchases business business 1967

1937 - Harold D. Reynolds purchases business

1967 - Stanley Reynolds purchases business from his father

1997 - Business incorporates with George and James Reynolds

Since Since 1937, 1937, service service , in, in thethe true true sense sense of of thethe word, word, hashas been been ourour business. business.

Areas Areas Number Number 11 Power Power Equipment Equipment Dealer Dealer 52 Church Street, Cheshire, MA | Serving Berkshire County Since 1844

Parts Parts| Sales | Sales| Service | Service

5252 Church Church St., St., Cheshire, Cheshire, MA MA 01225 01225

413-743-9512 413-743-9512 (413) 743-9512 ● www.ReynoldsLawnMower.com H.D. H.D. EYNOLDS EYNOLDS 6 minutes 6 minutes north north of of thethe mall mall

Mon, Tues, Tues, Wed, Wed, & Fri & Fri 8-5,8-5, Thurs Thurs 8-7,8-7, SatSat 8-38-3 GENERAL GENERAL MERCHANDISE MERCHANDISE Mon, www.ReynoldsLawnMower.com www.ReynoldsLawnMower.com

1997 - Business - Business incorporates incorporates withwith George George and and James James Reynolds Reynolds 1967 1967 - Stanley - Stanley Reynolds Reynolds purchases purchases business business fromfrom his his father father 1997

Since Since 1937, 1937, service service , in, in thethe true true sense sense of of thethe word, word, hashas been been ourour business. business.

Parts Parts| Sales | Sales| Service | Service

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com | Winter 2018

31

Behind Every Great Home ...

NO OBLIGATION IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION CONSTRUCTION • RENOVATION • WEEKLY SERVICE www.aquapool.com • (800) 722-AQUA (2782) HIC.0503482 • SPB.0000044 • NHC.0010353 • MA. LIC 113981 RI. LIC 37265 • N.Y. LIC WC 5600-H93 • N.Y. LIC. PC 679

MULTIPLE WINNER: TOP 50 POOL BUILDER IN USA!