Inside this issue Focus on ◆ crossfit aficionados have new venue in pittsfield...... 2 Discovering doors provides ◆ real-world implications of trend toward less tax relief...... 10 delights of portal to new ballroom retail venture ◆ homebuilder adds ‘consider it done’ to handle smaller tasks .....17 dancing — page 4 ◆ organizations team up to promote culinary tourism...... 21 — page 18 Ber kshir e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e monthly Vol. 17 No. 9 “The Business Journal For Berkshire County” JANUARY 2014 Meals On Wheels BREW with a view looks for ways to do more with less Funding doesn’t keep up with rising costs, increased demand

By John Townes In the economic and political climate of recent years, nonprofit service agencies have had to deal with the fallout of the recession as well as ongoing cuts and calls for further reductions in the budgets of local, state and federal governments. The impact of these pressures are varied, and they depend on the circumstances of individual agencies. However, almost every agency has had to find strategies to do more with less, while also seeking ways to maintain their budgets and to make up for this loss with revenues from other sources. One example of this dynamic in play is Meals On Wheels, a countywide program that delivers nutritionally balanced hot meals to home-bound seniors. It also serves other elderly clients at congregate meals at local senior centers and other facilities. Meals on Wheels is operated by Elder Services of Berkshire County, a regional agency with an $11 million annual budget. Elder Services of Berkshire County provides a variety of programs for seniors, including home care and personal care management, and other services to help the elderly live as Evan Williams (left) and Ezra Bloom raise a glass at Glass Bottom Brewery. The new venture combines brewing operations in Lee and farming in Housatonic. independently at home for as long as possible. It also serves as an ombudsman and advocate Glass Bottom aims for transparency with craft brewing venture for this sector of the population. Elder Services receives federal and state By Brad Johnson Along the way, both inside and out, they encountered set- funding for its programs as a designated “area Two kindred spirits are taking a literal approach to the concept backs and stumbling blocks that tested their resolve to bring agency on aging” for Berkshire County. It of being a farmer-brewer. the brewery into operation. Adding to the challenge was the also relies on support from private contribu- Evan Williams and Ezra Bloom spent this past spring and shoestring budget within which their self-financed start-up tions and grants. summer working both outside in the fields and inside deep had to take shape. Meals on Wheels currently receives within a warehouse complex to get their new venture, Glass But, by virtue of their toil – and, as Bloom commented, $525,000 in federal nutrition funds. It also Bottom Brewery, ready to launch. their “vow of poverty” – the first kegs from Glass Bottom receives income from the state through ser- The outdoor work involved tending to a fledgling hopyard Brewery were making their way to a handful of taverns by vice contracts. as well as other agricultural activities aimed at producing some early autumn. In terms of public funding, Meals on of the ingredients to be used in their craft brewing venture. “We’ve managed to work through the predictable head- Wheels has a somewhat different problem Inside, they spent long hours converting a section of aches,” said Bloom, a stoic 28-year-old transplant from than agencies that have seen their funding warehouse space within the Lee Corporate Center into a eastern Massachusetts. from government sources shrink. working microbrewery. continued on page 12 continued on page 22

‘the traveling professor’ Former math teacher rewrites equation to transform avocation into new career

By John Townes describe himself, because his former avoca- For most of his working life, Stephen tion has become his career. Solosky was a professor of mathematics, sta- Solosky, who lives in Monterey, operates tistics and information The Traveling Professor, technology at Nassau a business that arranges Community College on the job and leads group tours in Garden City, N.Y. to various destinations As a change of pace from his Long Island from Paris to Peru. In addition, he frequently base, he also traveled extensively to Paris gives travel talks to groups. and other international destinations on his He is also the author of The Traveling vacations. Professor’s Guide to Paris, which he self- Today, at 56, Solosky still refers to himself published in 2009 and sells on Amazon.com. as a professor, but the context is different. Solosky is soon to release a second edition Stephen Solosky – aka “The Traveling Professor” – joins members of his tour group for a photo at Machu He has retired from academia, and now of that book. Picchu in Peru. The Monterey resident and retired college professor has built a new career leading inter- uses the title of “The Traveling Professor” to continued on page 23 national tours and penning travel guides, including one on the Berkshires that is planned for 2015. 2 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e Ja n u a r y 2014

Balanced Approach… FRONT pages Rock Solid Advice CrossFit aficionados now have Pittsfield location By John Townes Three local adherents of the CrossFit multidisciplinary conditioning program, have opened up a training center at 505 East St. in Pittsfield. CrossFit Pittsfield – also known as “The Pitt” – is owned and operated by Jamie and Erica Law and Erica’s mother Susan Rathbun. It opened in October, with a formal grand opening on Nov. 30. It is located in a 6,200-square-foot open space on the lower level of the St. Luke’s Plaza commercial complex by the intersec- tion of 4th and East streets. They have con- verted the space into a gym-like facility. CrossFit Pittsfield (413-626-6325) is a licensed affiliate of CrossFit, an international business owned by Greg Glassman, who developed the exercise program. It has some 4,000 locations worldwide. The Laws and Rathbun are residents of southern Berkshire County. Prior to opening CrossFit Pittsfield they had been members of CrossFit Great Barrington. They also have other jobs. Erica works in Erica Law (left), her husband Jamie and her mother Susan Rathbun have established CrossFit Pittsfield, a frame shop, Jamie is a furniture maker and a new licensed affiliate of the increasingly popular core strength and conditioning program. Susan is a police officer in Sheffield. improve various aspects of health and fitness, eryone, but the designated weight or number Rathbun said they chose to start their own including endurance, strength, flexibility and of repetitions will vary for individuals. CrossFit business and base it in Pittsfield for other factors. “The coach determines the specifics, and a combination of reasons. “The motto of CrossFit is that it specializes will adjust them to where an individual is,” said “We all believe strongly in the benefits in not specializing,” said Rathbun. Rathbun. “The member also is able to decide Retirement Income Planning of CrossFit,” she said. “We wanted to bring The program is based on “workouts of what they are most comfortable with.” this to Pittsfield. The city has a strong sense the day” (also known as a WOD) which There are several basic levels of member- & Asset Management of community, which is an important aspect are sessions of designated activities that are ship. An all-inclusive membership, which of the CrossFit approach.” drawn up by trainers ahead of time. Mem- allows as many sessions as an individual 92 Elm St. • Pittsfield They financed the business through Lee bers take part in these as groups in one-hour chooses, is $175 a month. A “punch pass” for Bank. Rathbun noted that they received a sessions. 10 sessions a month is $100. There is a $100 great deal of help with their business plan- Sessions incorporate a variety of activities, rate for full-time students and other discounts 413.442.8190 ning from Keith Girouard with the Berkshire including weight lifting, aerobic exercise for police, fire and military personnel. www.balance-rock.com office of the Massachusetts Small Business such as running and calisthenics as well In addition to individual memberships, Development Center Network. as gymnastics, exercises like pull-ups and CrossFit educational workshops and training Securities offered through CrossFit is a multidisciplinary method of push-ups and other disciplines. It utilizes sessions are available to schools and other LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC conditioning that is designed to address and barbells, kettle-weights, suspended rings, organizations. large wall-balls and other equipment. As of late November, Rathbun said, Cross- CrossFit also emphasizes the concept Fit Pittsfield had already attracted about 75 of community through a combination of members. “It was mostly through word of personal interactions, a website and social mouth,” she said. “We also started getting a No w Av a i l a b l e On l i n e … media. Members give each other support lot of inquiries after we set up our website and assistance, and social connections also and Facebook page.”u develop. (CrossFit Pittsfield’s website is cfpittsfield.com and it has a Facebook page at CFP The Pitt. The global website is www. Rainbow revived by owners CrossFit.com.) of neighboring business Rathbun said CrossFit is designed for people at all levels of fitness. Participants By John Townes range from beginners who may not be in The longtime owners of a neighboring good condition to more advanced members. business have purchased and reopened The In addition to those who simply want to use Rainbow Restaurant at 109 First St. in central it to get into shape, the CrossFit world also Pittsfield. includes a competitive level. John and Luisa Economou own Pittsfield Before participating in the regular train- Precious Metals, which has operated at 93 ing sessions, new members first attend five First St., on the same block as The Rainbow, Foundations classes, where they learn the for 33 years. They also operate LuJohns basics of the CrossFit activities. Their fitness Auction Group and LuJohn Enterprises, an level is also evaluated. auction-technology company. While it is based on group sessions, the John Economou said their goal is to make exact nature of the workout is tailored to the The Rainbow a popular full-service family condition of the individual participant. For restaurant and lounge. example, a session may include lifting for ev- “We want The Rainbow to be a casual

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We’re using that for brick-oven restaurant, The Rainbow (413-443-0004 or the First Street railroad bridge, has had a pizza and other items.” www.dinerainbow.com) also offers take-out long history. The building was constructed The public area of the restaurant has service. Economou noted that people will be in 1890. It became also been remodeled. able to order and pay for food online or using a restaurant in 1925 “The Rainbow has a lot of It has 132 seats in the their smart phones. and for many years history and it used to be a restaurant and lounge, “Once we have gotten going, we’re was a culinary staple and another 40 seats planning to add a delivery service,” said in the city. However, very busy place,” said Econo- in a separate area for Economou. A catering operation is also be- since the 1990s, the mou. “I saw it as a landmark private meetings and ing planned. business has closed that needed to be rejuvenated social functions. Once the warm seasons return, The Rain- and re-opened several “We’ve moved some bow will add an outside deck with a service times under different back to its former glory.” walls to open up the window where customers will be able to owners. The most recent iteration closed in interior and make it more airy and inviting,” order and pick up food to go. 2012 after two years of operation. Economou said. “We’ve also reconfigured Economou noted that one source of an- The Economous purchased the building the lounge area to make it larger.” ticipated business will be visitors to The in May, and opened their new version of the The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Common, a city park across the street that is restaurant on Nov. 23. from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. currently being redesigned and rebuilt. Economou said he was very familiar with The lounge has a full liquor license and will “We don’t plan on having outdoor seat- The Rainbow as a customer over the years. also serve specialty craft beers. ing on our deck, but when the work on The The couple decided to purchase and reopen Economou said the staff will include up Common is completed that can be an area it because they considered it to be a business to 30 full- and part-time employees. for outdoor dining,” he said. “One idea we’re opportunity with a great deal of potential. The menu features a variety of fare, includ- looking at is to make it possible for people “The Rainbow has a lot of history and it ing specialty pizzas, entrees and full meals, at The Common to use their mobile phones used to be a very busy place,” said Economou. as well as lighter items including calzones, to place an order, and we’ll take it across the “I saw it as a landmark that needed to be sandwiches, soups and salads. Most dinner street to them.”u rejuvenated back to its former glory.” entrees are priced under $16, with calzones He said he was not concerned about the and sandwiches from around $8 to $10. inability of the site to sustain long-term busi- “The menu is a combination of familiar versatile north adams ness there in recent years. “Restaurants go dishes and items that are more unusual,” out of business for many different reasons,” Economou said. “For example, we’ll offer commercial property he said. “I don’t think the site was the reason fried smelts and grilled sardines, which you that recent restaurants didn’t last there.” don’t often see these days.” While the restaurant business is very dif- Among other items, dinner entrees include ferent from the couple’s precious metals, The Sweeney ($13.95), comprised of three antiques and auction enterprises, Economou large homemade meatballs, marinara, pan- said he also has extensive experience in the fried polenta and sauteed spinach; the BOO food-service industry. Radley Cavatappi ($11.95), made with oven- “I grew up in a family that has been in dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, caramelized the restaurant business for over one hundred sweet onions and feta cheese, tossed with years,” said Economou, who is originally pesto aglio e olio; and Pork Skirt Steak Me- from eastern Massachusetts. “I also operated dallions ( $15.95) with eggplant sorrentino the Belden Tavern in Lee for many years.” layered with marinara and mozzarella. He added that he has brought in Paul The sandwich selection includes items ecently used by the area’s school bus operator as its North Berkshire headquarters, Vilord, who also has an extensive food- such as Krupke’s Sandwich ( $9.95), an garage and service center, this 2,140 sq. ft. building with two drive-in bays and service background, as manager of The asiago-crusted chicken breast served on an privateR office offers numerous possibilities for new use. Located on busy South Rainbow. “Between the two of us we have herbed Tuscan loaf, layered with prosciutto, Church Street. The two-lot combination of 2.8 acres enhances the opportunities. 50 years of experience in the restaurant busi- romaine lettuce, and oven-dried tomato and Offered for sale at $199,500. Lease offers will be considered. ness,” he said. ricotta cheese spread. The new owners have made extensive Two types of pizza are served, including Call Al Marden for details. renovations to the building, including a thick-crust Sicilian-style baked in a tradi- complete overhaul of the kitchen, as well as tional oven, and a thin-crust Neapolitan-style installing new gas lines, a new roof and other cooked in the wood-fired oven. Basic build- basic structural and system upgrades. your-own pizzas start from $8.95 to $11.95. They have also restored what Economou A number of specialty pizzas are offered. sees as one of the restaurant’s most important “We also have a make-your-own maca- assets. “One of the big things we’ve done is roni,” said Economou. “It’s starts with the to bring its wood-fired oven back into opera- basic dish and you can order your own

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real estate By John Townes Paul Hergenrother recently made the tran- 413-447-7300 • 413-822-4742 sition from operating a growing photo-gift business out of a home office to becoming visit our new & one of the newest merchants on North Street improved website: in downtown Pittsfield. In September, Hergenrother opened a www.BarbHassanRealty.com combination retail store and studio/office for PhD Design & Photography at 141 North St. Suite 2 (a storefront previously occupied by Persnickety Toys, which recently moved to a nearby space at 137 North St.) “The inventory in my house became overwhelming, and I had to find a space for the business,” said Hergenrother, who lives hit the lanes! in Hancock. “I found this location which also offered the opportunity to have a retail His pictorial posters of prominent portals have opened a lot of doors for Paul Hergenrother. Customers can $599,900 space downtown.” now open Hergenrother’s door at his new retail shop, PhD Design & Photography, in downtown Pittsfield. 14 lanes of bowling fun in Pittsfield. Almost In addition to doing portrait, architectural 14,000 sq. ft. of open space on 2.5 acres. Dalton and other photography, Hergenrother’s pri- he worked in corporate design, photography Hergenrother said that the major step Avenue (Route 9). FFE + beer and wine license. mary business is creating and marketing and marketing in the New York City area for forward for his business was receiving Call Barb for more details. (4069R) photographic gift items. 18 years, and was a senior art director for such status as an approved vendor by two of the More specifically, he focuses on doors. clients as Mercedes-Benz, DuPont, Bacardi, largest of these companies, Follett Higher He creates and sells posters and other items Samsonite, Macy’s and Revlon. Education Group and Barnes & Noble. with the theme of photographs of historic and He left that field and started his current “That really opened the door for me to do interesting doors in specific locales, including business four years ago while living in this,” he said. reduced communities, colleges and universities. New Haven, Conn. “I felt it was time to do He said that being an approved vendor He photographs the doors and then groups something different,” he said. makes it possible to propose and sell specific them in arrangements to place on products The idea for the business grew out of pho- products for a school, and to have them placed titled as “The Historic Doors of...” with the tographs Hergenrother had taken of historic in campus stores. He sells to the retail outlets 6+ acre commercial site name of the associated location. His current architecture at Yale. on a wholesale basis, and also pays royalties products include several Berkshire communi- “I realized that no one was marketing this based on his sales. Route 7 – Lanesboro ties including Pittsfield, Lenox, Dalton and type of subject there, which gave me the idea Hergenrother also has to negotiate and Offered for sale at $1,895,000 for all 6 Great Barrington, and attractions such as for the Doors of Yale,” he recalled. That receive approval for his products associated buildings on 6+ acres. Or can be purchased at Jacob’s Pillow, among others. led him to start to doing similar products with locations like Jacob’s Pillow. $1,390,100 for 5 buildings on 5+ acres, and 1 “When I select doors to include, I look for other colleges and Products featuring building on 1+ acres for $499,900. (4068B) for unique and colorful ones that have visual universities. “When I came to the towns or other general appeal,” he said. The process of li- geographic themes do He places these on products, such as censing his products to Berkshires I immediately felt not require this type of 11-by-14-inch or 18-by-24-inch posters schools is more com- that I had come home and licensing, but he has to featuring grids of nine or 12 doors plus the plicated than simply belong here.” adhere to regulations title. He also places smaller versions of the approaching the school and basic courtesy photographs on greeting and post cards, and convincing its administration and book- about access to properties and permission bookmarks and coasters. store to allow him to sell a product. “It’s from owners of private sites. The products are sold through retail outlets. very involved and can be very complicated,” Hergenrother moved to the Berkshires last Locally, his Berkshire products are carried Hergenrother said. year. Although he had never lived here before, in his new store and other gift and specialty He explained that today most colleges he described it as a homecoming. downtown pittsfield shops in the area. His collegiate products are contract with a handful of large licensing He explained that he had visited western $349,900 sold in college bookstores and other stores and marketing firms to manage the use of Massachusetts many times to visit relatives. Former Notre Dame Church, almost 14,000 on and off campus. He has also sold them their image and public identity on products Then, while doing research into his geneal- sq. ft., fellowship hall in lower level, new through other arrangements with colleges. and associated royalties. In addition, outside ogy, he discovered that his great-great-grand- sprinkler system, ample parking + municipal The collegiate market is the largest share firms also operate the schools’ bookstores parents, Charles and Mary Thompson, lived lot across the street. (4067B) of his business. So far he has been licensed and other campus shops. in Pittsfield and had been active members of to develop and sell products associated with Hergenrother said that in order to sell a the community. 23 colleges and universities in the Northeast. product associated with a school, it is neces- “I felt a connection to Pittsfield and decided Among them are several in this area, includ- sary to negotiate with these companies and to move here,” he recalled. He added that he ing Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, go through a rigorous review to receive ap- made the right decision. Williams, Smith and UMass Amherst. He proved vendor status and a license. “When I lived in Connecticut and other also is licensed to sell products associated In addition, he said, schools often have places, I had always felt like a transplant,” with five Ivy League schools (Yale, Harvard, strict policies regarding access to campus he said. “But when I came to the Berkshires Princeton, Brown and Dartmouth) and other for activities that are related to commercial I immediately felt that I had come home and large and small colleges and universities. purposes. For example, many schools require belong here.” Hergenrother, who grew up in New Jersey, permission – and sometimes on-site supervi- Currently PhD Design & Photography received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at sion – for him to go onto a campus to take (203-494-7014 or www.phddesign.org) is a Montclair State University in 1992. After that photographs. one-man business. Although Hergenrother for sale – pittsfield contracts out the processing and printing of $529,900 the images, he handles all of the other tasks, Wendell Avenue mixed-use property with ICC MC73444 including sales and the design and assembling GREAT CASH FLOW. Seven residential US DOT 058227 of the products. He is also responsible for set- units and two commercial rentals. New siding, ting up the product displays in school stores windows, roof. Off-street parking. Short walk and making sure they remain stocked. to courts, downtown. (4070B) In addition to his own photographic mer- chandise, his new store also carries jewelry, Specialists in residential & industrial moving frames, candles and other gift items made by & warehousing. Locally & worldwide. others. Hergenrother said he will continue to carry the other items for now, but his goal is Providing personal, professional service, our expert moving teams stay to focus primarily on his own photographic with you every step of the way…from packing to delivery to unpacking. products. We cover moves throughout the U.S. He said his first weeks in downtown pittsfield-lanesboro line Pittsfield have been encouraging. “I had a Quality service very good month in October,” he said. “I’m Landmark LAKEFRONT Restaurant getting good response, and people in the Turn key business on the shores of Pontoosuc Competitive Rates community have been very supportive of Lake, with dock, ample parking, great deck A Family Owned & Operated what I’m doing.” facing the water. (4062B) Business Since 1923 The store is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. He also plans to be open on weekends during the holiday season.u Barb Davis-Hassan,ccim Broker/Owner or Toll Free 413•499•4982 1•800•225•8068 email your firm’s news Over $100 Million 501 Dalton Avenue, Pittsfield in Career Sales and announcements to: Commercial/Residential Visit our website at www.castinemovers.com [email protected] Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e 5 news & notes from the region

Ongoing: Berkshire Business Jan. 2: Great Barrington Builders networking meeting Green Drinks, informal every Thursday morning from the month in business gathering of people inter- 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at 55 Church ested in conservation and Street in Pittsfield. All business people looking for an Dec. 13-15: Crispina’s Holiday Shindy featuring environmental issues on first Thursday of each month. The white horse opportunity to network are invited. For information, over 50 artisans, hand-made gifts and holiday items 5:15 p.m. at the Route 7 Grill, 999 South Main St. For call Kathy Hazelett at 413-442-8581. in Crispina ffrench’s studio in the former Notre Dame more information, contact Erik Hoffner at ehoffner@ you see in the park church at 40 Melville St. in downtown Pittsfield. Dec. orionmagazine.org or 413-528-4422. Ongoing: The Job Club meets Mondays from 1 to 2 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. and Dec. 14-15 from 10 a.m. to 5 could be a zebra Application deadline for the 2014 Berkshire p.m. at BerkshireWorks Career Center at 160 North St. p.m. Free admission. 413-236-9600. Jan. 7: synchronized with the railings. in Pittsfield. Facilitated by Millie Calesky, business and Leadership Program (BLP), coordinated by the life coach and certified career development facilitator, Dec. 13, 15: A Gospel Christmas to benefit area Berkshire Chamber of Commerce. The program prepares the free and informal program helps participants who emergency fuel funds, featuring The Gospel Gang and and sustains leaders from diverse backgrounds who are are seeking employment to expand their network of The Messengers, presented by the United Methodist committed to addressing community challenges and contacts and provides valuable job-search tips. It also Church of Lenox. Performances on Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. improving the quality of life in the Berkshires. Appli- serves as a support group throughout the job-search at First Congregational Church in Great Barrington, with cations are available online at www.berkshirechamber. process. For information, visit www.berkshireworks. free-will offerings to benefit the Emergency Assistance com/blp. For further information, contact Darci Toomey org or call 413-499-2220. Fuel Fund of Construct Inc.; and on Dec. 15 at 4 p.m. at 413-499-4000 ext. 116. at the First United Methodist Church in Pittsfield, with Dec. 11: Berkshire Chamber of Commerce Annual free-will offerings to benefit the Emergency Fuel Fund Jan. 19: “The State of Contemporary Poetry” presented Meeting including election of officers and awards pre- of the Pittsfield Area Council of Congregations. For by author, columnist and poet Michelle Gillett. Part of the sentations. 7:30 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza in Pittsfield. information, call 413-445-5918. Lenox Library’s Distinguished Lecture Series. 4 p.m. in $30. RSVP at 413-499-4000. the library’s Sedgwick Reading Room. For information Dec. 14, 15: 5th Annual Holiday Farmers Markets visit lenoxlib.org or email [email protected]. Dec. 11: Tricks of the Trade, professional development hosted by Berkshire Grown, featuring locally grown seminar series for artists and other creative workers that and produced foods, including fruits and vegetables, Jan. 22: Tricks of the Trade, professional development gives them the tools and skills they need to grow and cheese, eggs, meat, poultry, bread, pies, pickles, jams, seminar series for artists and other creative workers that sustain their businesses. This month featuring Elevator and more. Also live music, children’s activities, holiday gives them the tools and skills they need to grow and Speeches at MCLA Gallery 51 in North Adams at 6 p.m. recipes, and lunch food vendors. Dec. 14 at Monument sustain their businesses. This month featuring The Global Presented by MCLA’s Berkshire Cultural Resource Cen- Valley Middle School, 313 Monument Valley Rd. in Art Market at MCLA Gallery 51 in North Adams at 6 ter (BCRC), in partnership with the IS 183 Art School Great Barrington. Dec. 15 at Williams College Towne p.m. Presented by MCLA’s Berkshire Cultural Resource and the Pittsfield Office of Cultural Development. The Field House, 82 Latham St. in Williamstown. All events Center (BCRC), in partnership with the IS 183 Art School series is free and open to the public. For more informa- from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, go to and the Pittsfield Office of Cultural Development. The tion, go to www.mcla.edu/About_MCLA/Community/ berkshiregrown.org or call 413-528-0041. series is free and open to the public. For more informa- bcrc/tricksofthetrade0809/tricksofthetradeabout/, or call tion, go to www.mcla.edu/About_MCLA/Community/ the BCRC at 413-664 8718. Dec. 15: “The Beatles Weren’t Really So Great! bcrc/tricksofthetrade0809/tricksofthetradeabout/, or call (Or Were They . . .?)” presented by attorney David the BCRC at 413-664 8718.u Dec. 11: Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce Glass. Part of the Lenox Library’s Distinguished Lec- Holiday Party and Annual Meeting. 5 p.m. at Ward’s ture Series. 4 p.m. in the library’s Sedgwick Reading Nursery in Great Barrington. RSVP. 413-528-4284. Room. For information visit lenoxlib.org or email Dec. 11, Jan. 8: North Adams Green Drinks, informal [email protected] gathering of people interested in conservation and envi- Dec. 15: Movie screening and brunch, featuring the ronmental issues on second Wednesday of each month. full-length film Five Days Gone, shot entirely in Stock- 5:30 p.m. at the Freight Yard Pub in the Western Gateway bridge at the Ingleside estate by writer and director Anna Heritage Park. Sponsored by the Berkshire Environ- Kerrigan. Presented by the BIFF REEL Friends Film mental Action Team (BEAT) and Northern Berkshire Society. 11 a.m. at the Triplex Cinema in Great Bar- Transition. For more information, contact Jane Winn at rington, followed by brunch at allium Restaurant, with [email protected] or 413-230-7321. the film’s director on hand for a Q&A. $25 per person Dec. 12: Living Well Annual Holiday Party with for film and brunch (to attend the film only, it is $5 at the food, drinks, door prizes and demonstrations including door.) RSVP to the BIFF office at 413-528-8030. mini-massages, gluten-free facials, nutrition response Dec. 17, Jan. 21: Pittsfield Green Drinks, informal testing and Reiki. Kids welcome. 5 p.m. at Living Well gathering of people interested in conservation and Chiropractic, Nutrition and Massage, 140 Pleasant St. environmental issues on third Tuesday of each month. in North Adams. RSVP. 413-663-5500. 5:15 p.m. at MadJacks BBQ, 295 North St. Sponsored Dec. 13: Teen Supervision and Safety, the December by the Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT). Forum of the UNITY Youth Leadership Program and the For more information, contact Jane Winn at jane@ Northern Berkshire Community Coalition. Young people thebeatnews.org or 413-230-7321. will lead the discussion on how much supervision young Dec. 18: Holiday Chamber Nite at MountainOne people need and related topics. 10 a.m. to noon at the Financial Center for members of the Berkshire Cham- First Baptist Church in North Adams. For information ber of Commerce. 5 p.m. at 111 Silver Lake Blvd. in contact Kate Merrigan at 413-663-758. Pittsfield. RSVP. 413-499-4000. 6 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e Ja n u a r y 2014 FRONT pages

Kimball Farms Nursing Care Center in Hillcrest Educational Centers has earned Berkshire Bank has been named the Silver Business Lenox has been recognized as a 2013 recipient of The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval Winner in both Internal Marketing and Overall the Gold – Excellence in Quality National Quality for accreditation by demonstrating compliance Philanthropy for institutions with over $1.5 bil- Award for superior performance in the long-term with national standards for quality and safety in lion in total assets by the New England Financial Update and post-acute care profession. The award is the behavioral health care. Hillcrest, which provides Marketing Association (NEFMA), a membership highest level of recognition bestowed by the Na- an array of residential and nonresidential services organization for financial marketers at banks, Applications are now being accepted for the tional Quality Award program, presented by the for children and youth in Berkshire County, has credit unions and supporting service companies 2014 Berkshire Leadership Program (BLP), American Health Care Association and National received Joint Commission accreditation for more throughout the New England states. The Internal coordinated by the Berkshire Chamber of Com- Center for Assisted Living. Of the five centers than 15 years. Marketing award recognized Berkshire Bank’s merce. Now in its 17th year, BLP prepares and nationwide to receive the Gold – Excellence in America’s Most Exciting Bank University sustains leaders from diverse backgrounds who Quality award this year, two were operated by The Berkshire Bank Foundation has awarded (AMEBU) program. This past year, the theme of are committed to addressing community chal- Berkshire Healthcare Systems, including Kim- Construct Inc. in Great Barrington a $10,000 grant AMEBU was “work hard, rest hard, play hard” lenges and improving the quality of life in the ball Farms and Linda Manor in Leeds. to support their Project Win, a workforce invest- and featured seminars and hands-on activities for Berkshires. The program begins with a two-day ment program designed to stabilize households the company’s staff demonstrating the importance retreat which includes training in leadership and Greylock Federal Credit Union has an- both financially and in housing. This program of working and playing hard while taking time for problem-solving. That is followed by an economic nounced several new electronic services as part will serve 175 youths and adults across southern themselves. The Overall Philanthropy award rec- development bus tour of Berkshire County and of an initiative to ramp up the credit union’s Berkshire County by integrating Construct’s ognized Berkshire Bank Foundation’s Employee eight weekly four-hour evening sessions on topics Anywhere Banking online banking services. existing employment program with adult educa- Volunteer Program, as well as their philanthropic that define a community. Candidates are selected A new Mobile Banking App allows members tion, financial literacy education, and a new self- investments in the community through its chari- to participate based on a written application and to bank from anywhere using a smartphone. sufficiency program. The program also aims to help table grants, corporate giving and in-kind dona- references. The cost to participate is $649 and The app lets users check account balances, see the most committed participants to find a career tions. The Employee Volunteer Program provides includes all meals and overnight accommodations. recent activity, view transaction history, and get path that offers the best chance for the household paid time off for employees to volunteer during Limited financial assistance is available. Applica- directions to ATMs or branch locations using to become self-sufficient and purchase a home. regular business. In 2012, Berkshire Bank em- tions, which must be submitted by Jan. 7, 2014, GPS. External Account Transfers, also known ployees completed 95 volunteer projects in which are available online at www.berkshirechamber. as Account-to-Account or A2A, is a component The communities of Adams and North Adams over 50 percent of its employees participated by com/blp. For further information, contact Darci platform of Internet Home Banking that allows the have received a grant from the Massachusetts donating over 37,000 hours of service to help their Toomey at 413-499-4000 ext. 116. logged-in member to initiate a transfer to/from an Attorney General’s office to help them deal with local communities. Annually, Berkshire Bank and account they own at Greylock to or from another distressed properties. These two communities Berkshire Bank Foundation award nearly $2 mil- The Hair Studio in Pittsfield has launched of its account they own at another financial institution. have been given resources to work with banks lion to community organizations and scholarships own line of professional hair-care products. Under Person2Person (P2P) allows the logged-in mem- on handling foreclosed properties and ensure to high school seniors. “The Hair Studio” name, it includes products for ber to initiate a transfer between an account they they are returned to productive use. In addition, styling, shampoos and conditioners. “We wanted own at Greylock and another individual by using the communities have contracted with Berkshire A Pittsfield office ofA spen Dental, a support our customers to have a high-quality product for either their email address or cell phone number Regional Planning Commission to develop a business of branded dental practices, has opened an affordable price…[and] bringing in our own (the parties involved need not have the same bank). database of properties within each community that at 690 Merrill Rd. Reetane Singh is the lead den- line allows us to offer that,” explained Frank The new services also include Trusteer Rapport can be used to track foreclosures, condemnations, tist at the Pittsfield office, which is Aspen’s 29th Napolitano, owner of The Hair Studio, which is Anti-Virus software, an anti-virus and browser code violations and blight to enable them to target practice in Massachusetts. It provides general located on Park Square. Information is available lock-down software designed to protect against neighborhoods for improvement more efficiently. dentistry services, dentures and restorations and at www.frankshairstudio.com. keystroke-logging and activity-capture viruses; Contact Mark Maloy at 413-442-1521 ext. 29 for preventive care. uOpen, which allows Greylock members to open more information. additional deposit accounts through Greylock’s online banking service; and Account Alerts, which With the recent acquisition by Pittsfield-based The provides customized automatic alerts and remind- Nuclea Biotechnologies Inc. of Wilex Inc. (On- ers sent via text, secure message or email. cogene Science), the company will begin its first protection foray into GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) Berkshire Community College (BCC) has manufacturing and marketing of the HER-2/neu BT&C your business opened a new Veterans Lounge. It was spear- blood test at their facility in Cambridge. The test headed by BCC’s Student Veterans Alliance, a is available as an In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) in needs group formed in 2010 by veteran students who the U.S., Canada, and Europe (CE MARK). The wanted to connect and network with their peers HER-2/neu test is a blood test used to monitor Publisher Burglar Alarm & Fire Alarm Systems on campus. The Veterans Lounge is a gathering women with metastatic breast cancer that is mini- place for BCC’s community of veterans to study, mally invasive, inexpensive, and can be used to Brad Johnson UL Central Station Monitoring eat lunch, access a computer, or take a break track disease progression or regression. Nuclea CCTV Systems • Access Control between classes. Funding for the lounge, as well also announced it has received a new patent for Contributing Editor Heat Loss Monitoring for as the hiring of John Herrera as a part-time one of its immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. staff assistant for veterans affairs, came from grant U.S. Patent No. 8,580,926 B2, which was issued John Townes from the Massachusetts Community Colleges and on Nov. 12, is for an IHC assay used to determine New England Dynamark Workforce Development Transformation Agenda if a patient diagnosed with colorectal cancer Guest Columnists Security Center (MCCWDTA). Herrera, a former BCC student (CRC) will respond to treatment with irinotecan and a retired veteran of the Marine Corps and (CAMPTOSAR), a first-line chemotherapeutic Deb Hastings Watson Coast Guard, works directly with BCC student agent. Nuclea plans to begin its clinical testing James Rose veterans to help them make the transition from in its lab early in 2014. military service to higher education. BCC is also Advertising Sales collaborating with the BerkshireWorks Career The Berkshire Taconic Community Founda- 413-442-5647 • 800-821-SAFE Center, which is also opening a Veterans Resource tion has announced that the Martha Boschen Brad Johnson Room with of MCCWDTA funding, to help assist Porter Fund has awarded $40,500 to 10 regional www.nedynamark.com veterans to find access to key services. artists and organizations, selected from 60 appli- Circulation Manager Protecting area businesses since 1978 cations. The Boschen Fund for Artists supports emerging artists or artists experiencing a signifi- Tamra Hjermstad cant change of direction in their work. Berkshire County recipients included Community Access ★ TAX CCTAX OOO MMM PPP ,,, III NNN CCC ... to the Arts in Great Barrington for performance work in 2014, Tessa Kelly of Pittsfield to lay the Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e is TAX & FINANCIAL PLANNING groundwork for a writers’ residency program, and published monthly and delivered free to BOOKKEEPING & PAYROLL Marla Robertson of Williamstown to investigate businesses in Berkshire County via third- interactions between agriculture and dance. class mail. Additional distribution is made PERSONALIZEDRalph Stroffolino, PAYROLL EA CFP SERVICE! via drop-off at select area newsstands. Our complete payrollDebra serviceWatroba supports & Donna a wide Sciola, range Payroll of pay Admin. types and schedules, Subscriptions for home delivery are $30 Dan Boulais, Business Consultant The mammography service at North Adams and includes check printing, direct deposit, tax filings, full compliance and more. Regional Hospital has again earned the Gold Seal per year (first-class mail). Back issues are 100 NORTH ST. • SUITE 310 • PITTSFIELD of Accreditation from the American College of available for $2.50 per copy. 137 North St. • Suite D • Pittsfield Radiology. “This accreditation reaffirms our com- Entire contents are copyright © 2014 Tel: 448-6222 • E-mail: [email protected] • Fax: 443-5619 mitment to providing the highest level of image by Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e . No quality and patient safety,” said Jeffrey Bath, MD, portion may be reproduced without written chief of radiology at NARH. The Massachusetts permission of the publishers. Department of Public Health Radiation Control Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e shall Lee Commercial/Office Space Program renewed the mammography depart- not be liable for failure to publish an ad- ment’s facility license in September… Berkshire vertisement or for typographical errors in Approx. 1,400 sq. ft. Medical Center has for the 10th year in a row publication, except to the extent of the cost 5 offices (plus storage room & rest room) received national recognition for the care of stroke of the space in which the error first appeared. patients from the American Heart Association The publishers reserve the right to refuse Handicap accessible (ramp) • On-site parking through the Get With The Guidelines–Stroke advertising for any reason. Gold Plus Achievement Award. Get With The Rent: $1,500/mo. including heat • Lease & security e r k s h i r e r a d e & o m m e r c e Guidelines–Stroke helps BMC’s staff develop B T C PO Box 942 • North Adams, MA 01247 For details, contact Don Raiche at Carriage House Real Estate and implement acute and secondary prevention guideline processes to improve patient care and outcomes. 413-447-7700 413-637-2100 www.btaconline.com

Connecting Workers and Employers Helping businesses find qualified employees 160 North St., Pittsfield 413-499-2220 www.berkshireworks.org Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r C e 7 news & notes from the region

For the 28th consecutive year, salisbury Bank The City of Pittsfi eld is undertaking a sus- adams community Bank is partnering with is holding its “We Believe” campaign, in which tainable downtown parking management study Boxes of love to support overseas troops during the bank looks to help less fortunate children by to provide the framework to make parking an this holiday season. Boxes of Love is an organi- collecting and distributing toys to communities asset, rather than a barrier, to downtown growth. zation started by Patty Erdeski from Stamford, The greatest in which it serves. Bank customers and others A study team has been analyzing the current park- Vt., as an outgrowth of her practice of sending can participate by placing a new, unwrapped gift ing situation and collecting suggestions and other care packages to her son when he was serving in inventor? suitable for a girl or boy up through mid-teens input and from the public. This information will Afghanistan last year. Since then, Erdeski has sent underneath the tree at any Salisbury Bank branch be gathered into a series of preliminary propos- almost 300 packages to military personnel serv- offi ce by Dec. 16. The bank’s “volunteer elves” als, which will be discussed at a public meeting ing overseas. In support of the program, Adams Accident will then work to get the gifts into children’s this winter and then presented to the city in the Community Bank is accepting donations at all of homes in time for the holiday. Gift ideas include, spring for consideration by offi cials. Possible its seven branches. A full list of approved items but are not limited to: sports equipment and balls, proposals include the introduction of on-street is available in each of the branch lobbies or on books, board and hand-held electronic games, paid parking, changes to downtown employee the bank’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ backpacks, purses, and cosmetics, as well as gift parking permits, updates to signage, improved pages/Adams-Community-Bank. Those with a cards to local retailers. enforcement effi ciency, and more. loved one serving overseas who might enjoy receiving a Box of Love can send the information Berkshire healthcare systems has compiled is183, art school of the Berkshires is accept- to Erdeski at [email protected]. a strong record of achievement in terms of cus- ing nominations for its second annual Berkshire tomer and employee satisfaction over the past Arts K-12 Educator Award to recognize individu- north adams regional hospital has been year at its family of long-term care and senior als who inspire creativity in their students. Any recognized as a “Top Performer Hospital” by The living facilities. Of the 23 long-term care and K-12 educator in Berkshire County specializing Joint Commission, the national healthcare accredit- senior living providers in Massachusetts recog- in visual arts is eligible for the award, including ing organization. NARH is one of only 18 hospitals nized this year by National Research Corporation those who work outside of a formal education in Massachusetts to achieve Top Performer status, with Excellence in Action awards for exceptional setting. Nominations can be made using a simple and was recognized for exemplary performance in customer and employee satisfaction, 12 are downloadable form at www.is183.org. IS183 will using evidence-based clinical processes that are Berkshire Healthcare communities. Excellence accept nominations through Jan. 15. The winner, shown to improve care for certain conditions. The in Action awards recognize long-term care and who will be announced this spring, will receive a designation for NARH is based on the hospital’s senior living organizations that achieve the $1,183 professional development award, courtesy performance related to accountability measures highest levels of satisfaction excellence, as dem- of the seth nash creativity Fund, to use for the for treatment of heart attack, pneumonia, surgical onstrated by overall resident and/or employee arts enrichment activity of his or her choice. care and congestive heart failure.◆ satisfaction scores within the top 10 percent nationally. Awards for Berkshire-based facilities include: Fairview commons nursing & reha- bilitation center in Great Barrington, Kimball Farms life care in Lenox, and Williamstown commons nursing & rehabilitation center in Williamstown, for customer satisfaction; and 2VBMJUZ3FMJBCJMJUZ7BMVF north adams commons nursing & rehabili- At The Berkshire Nautilus, we sell exercise for a living. At The Fitness Store, we tation center in North Adams, for employee sell exercise equipment we believe in. It is our goal at The Fitness Store to help you satisfaction. Local winners for both customer and employee satisfaction were Kimball Farms make an informed purchase. We don’t want to sell you equipment you don’t need any nursing care center in Lenox, mt. Greylock more than you want to buy equipment you don’t want. And if you should purchase extended care Facility in Pittsfi eld, andpine from us you can be confident we’ll stand behind our products with service you can hill assisted living at Kimball Farms in Lenox. “We are proud that Berkshire Healthcare trust. When you stop to think about it, who better to buy your exercise equipment has been recognized for having some of our from than the experts at The Fitness Store inside The Berkshire Nautilus. nation’s best senior care communities,” said William Jones, president of Berkshire Health- care Systems. “We are committed to providing exceptional customer experiences and clinical ͳF
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bank2VBMJUZ3FMJBCJMJUZ7BMVFAt The Berkshire Nautilus, we sell exercise for a living. At The Fitness Store, we sell exercise equipment we believe in. It is our goal at The Fitness Store to help you resourcesmake an informed purchase. We don’t want to sell you equipment you don’t need any B G more than you want to buy equipment you don’t want. And if you should purchase from us you can be confident we’ll stand behind our products with service you can Jim Ramondetta trust. When you stop to think about it, who better to buy your exercise equipment Owner, Berkshire Nautilus BA, Biology, Williams College from than the experts at The Fitness Store inside The Berkshire Nautilus. MA, Exercise Physiology, Queens College small bank ͳF
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people on the move

Berkshire Health Systems has announced Richard (Dick) Kelly The Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce elected the appointment of Heather Flynn, MD, to the has been appointed se- the following slate of officers at its Nov. 13 an- Hillcrest Family Health physician practice in nior vice president and nual meeting: Michele Kotek of the Red Lion downtown Pittsfield, where she joins Drs. Robert chief lending officer at Inn, president; Mike Diaz of Wheeler and Taylor, Davenport, Svetlin Dinovski, Mehernosh Khan Salisbury Bank. Kelly vice president; Anne Cathcart of Chesterwood, and Christopher Trancynger. Board certified joined the bank as vice assistant vice president; Mike Duffy of the Norman in family practice medicine, Flynn previously president and senior com- Rockwell Museum, treasurer; and Phil Coleman provided primary care services with Community mercial loan officer in of Heirlooms Jewelry, secretary. Three others are 20132013 BuickBuick LaCrosse Health Programs in Great Barrington. April, bringing more than joining the board as members-at-large: Colleen 20 years of experience as Henry of the Trustees of Reservations, Margaret Paul Gage has been named director of the Pitts- Kelly a commercial banker in Kerswill of Mutability in Motion, and Camilo McAndrewsMcAndrews--KingKing field Adult Learning Center, a leading provider western Massachusetts Manrique of 1862 Seasons on Main B&B. Buick GMC Truck Inc. of GED test preparation, adult basic education, and eastern New York. Since then, he has become Buick GMC Truck Inc. and English for Speakers of Other Languages a key member of the bank’s management team, Marc Bachman has 224224 Columbia Columbia St., Rt.8Rt.8 Adams Adams (413) 743-0584 (ESOL) in the Berkshires. He previously served working closely with its team of commercial joined William Pitt So- mcandrewsking.com(413) 743-0584 for four years as executive director of the Louison lending officers. Prior to joining Salisbury Bank, theby’s International Re- mcandrewsking.com House, a family life support center for the home- Kelly was first vice president and commercial alty Berkshire Brokerage Bigger is not Better… Better is Better ______less of northern Berkshire County. Gage began his lender at Berkshire Bank. Prior to that he held in Great Barrington as a Bigger is not Better… Better is Better ______educational career as a special education teacher positions at BankBoston, Multibank and St. sales associate providing See the Easy Guys for a great deal with Hillcrest Education Centers, followed by a Lawrence National Bank. residential real estate Seeon the a newEas yor Guys pre-owned for a vehicle.great deal permanent substitute teacher position at Hoosac services to all of Berkshire

onPeter a new Conklin, or pre Mike-owned Harrington vehicle. Valley High School, and later, as a social studies Barrington Stage Company (BSC) has an- County. Before becoming teacher at Wahconah Regional High School. nounced a realignment of the leadership of its a Realtor in New Jersey PeterBob Conklin, Hillard or Mike Dan HarringtonMaloney board of trustees. Mary Ann Quinson, who served in 2010, Bachman had Bachman Bob Hillard or Dan Maloney as the board’s founding president for the past 19 practiced real estate law

years, has transitioned to the newly created posi- for 15 years. He and his family relocated to the tion of chairman. Marita O’Dea Glodt, who has Berkshires this past summer after vacationing served as vice president since joining the board here for several years. in 2011, has been elected board president. Other board officers areR osita Sarnoff as vice president, Carol Rapisarda has been promoted to as- Heather Nolin as secretary and Ira Yohalem as sistant vice president and branch officer at Adams treasurer. The Pittsfield-based nonprofit theater Community Bank. In her new capacity, she will be SM organization will mark its 20th anniversary with responsible for overseeing the management and the upcoming 2014 season. development of the Center Street and Cheshire branches. Rapisarda has been with the bank since Berkshire Community College (BCC) has an- 2010 and has held the position of branch manager nounced the addition of three new professors. Traci for the Cheshire office. Prior to joining Adams Dundas has joined BCC as an assistant professor of Community Bank, she held similar positions at mathematics. Dundas previously taught mathemat- TD Bank and Com Fed Savings Bank. ics at Monument Mountain Regional High School, and earlier was a teaching/research assistant at Julia Morgan-Leamon has been named man- the University of Kentucky. Joanne Heaton has ager of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts’ been named an assistant professor in the Nursing Gallery 51. An adjunct art teacher for Williams Department. She previously worked at Berkshire College and IS183, Morgan-Leamon is both a Medical Center in a variety of roles including painter who works primarily with watercolor !"#$%&'()%*+,%-% as a telemetry nurse, in labor and delivery with and oil, and a video artist with experience in ex- maternal/child health, and in interventional radiol- perimental and installation work. She has begun .)/+01%23'0'+0% ogy. Frank Van Valen has been named assistant her new role by working with MCLA students on professor of mathematics. He previously worked the gallery’s latest show, “99 and NINE: We are at Columbia-Greene Community College and at Mused,” which opened Dec. 5. +0%4+5,%!0$5,-0/)6 Fulton-Montgomery Community College. Michael Carroll has Sand Springs Recreational Center (SSRC) has been promoted to senior hired Janine Burt as the permanent executive vice president and chief director. She succeeds Jane Patton, a member of credit officer at Berkshire the board of trustees, who served as the interim di- Bank. Since joining the rector for the nonprofit organization’s first season bank in May 2009 as (413) 528-5509 of operation at the community recreation facil- senior vice president ity (August 2013 BT&C). Burt, a Williamstown and commercial regional www.GoodWorksInsurance.com resident, comes to SSRC with over 20 years of leader of New York, Car- experience working with nonprofit organizations, roll has provided leader- including Bennington College and Abilities First. Carroll ship for the lending teams GREAT BARRINGTON WORCESTER Her first priorities will be to launch the membership in New York, Vermont CANAAN COLUMBIA GLASTONBURY NEW MILFORD drive for next season and to explore enhancing and Berkshire County. In his new role, Carroll winter use of the facility, including wellness will be responsible for the bank’s credit under- classes, and other events and activities. writing and approval processes, drawing on his 25 years of experience in commercial and credit roles in banking.

Kim Downey, assistant vice president and trust officer for Salisbury Bank, was recently awarded the Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation from the Institute of Certified Bankers, a subsidiary of the American Bankers Association. Dr. Jeannette Liu, a board certified and highly experienced The CTFA designation is awarded to individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of wealth Jeannette Liu, MD Neurosurgeon, has joined the BMC medical staff and the management and trust. Downey joined Salisbury Neurosurgery Professional Services of BMC physician practice. Bank in 2005 and is based in the Lakeville, Conn., Neurological & Spinal Surgery She is accepting new patients in need of brain, spinal and office, where she advises individuals and families in investment management, trust administration, Neurosurgery Professional Services of BMC peripheral nerve care. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive IRAs and pension plans.u 777 North St., 5th Floor, Pittsfield Neurosurgical services to the Berkshires. 413-447-2870 There is a 95% chance that your credit card machine is stealing profits from x Board certified in Neurological Surgery you…and that I can save you money like I have done for other area merchants. x Medical degree from The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine I have helped over 88 local x Residency in Neurosurgery at the University of Texas business owners save a total Medical Branch, Galveston x Served as a Neurosurgeon in the United States Air Force, of $150,482 on credit card with the rank of Major fees for the first year of x Came to the Berkshires from Good Shepherd Medical processing with me. Center, Longview, TX – Don Raiche x For an appointment with Dr. Liu, ask your physician for a referral or call 413-447-2870 Berkshire Merchant Services Don Raiche • 413-637-2100 www.BerkshireMerchantServices.com Member of the berkshire Chamber of Commerce Member of the Lee Chamber of Commerce member of berkshire business builders Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e 9 Financial solutions that matter to you.

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Income Tax: Versions 2.0.13 and 2.0.14 James R. Rose, EA, Real-world implications of joining qualified lower-income capital gains those age 50 and older (up from $5,000 and CFP, is with Dollars & tax rates of 0 and 15 percent. $6,000, respectively). Sense Tax & Financial trend toward less tax relief Also for higher-income taxpayers, a new One of the most important tax issues Planning Services in medicare tax of 3.8 percent on qualified “net of 2013 was settled not by Congress, the Pittsfield. He can be By James R. Rose, EA CFP investment income” President or the U.S. reached at 448-9015. The American Taxpayers Relief Act of – coupled with an ad- Without the earnings raise Treasury – but by the 2012 – signed into law on Jan. 2, 2013 – ditional 0.9 percent Supreme Court. In stands as the only new piece of tax legisla- medicare tax on earn- that never seems to come, its decision to strike been popular and effective. However, the tion enacted in calendar year 2013. With ings – may effectively paying more tax on the down portions of the political will to extend these special allow- carryover statutes from legislation of earlier mean top tax rates in same amount of income Defense of Marriage ances may not be available in 2014. years (most notably The Patient Protection excess of 40 percent Act (DoMA), same-sex At the time of this writing, the Section and Affordable Care Act and The Health (excluding state in- may be a frustrating legally married couples 179 expense limit will become $25,000, Care and Reconciliation Act of 2010), many come tax rates). economic reality for many are now entitled to equal beginning Jan. 1, 2014. The current limit, taxpayers will find less tax relief – and less These new tax rates U.S. households this year. treatment under federal due to expire Dec. 31, 2013, can be as tax affordability – than in recent years. and tax categories tell tax law. Previously, high as $500,000. While few of us can take only half the story, as taxpayers will also see these marriages were not recognized by the advantage of a half-million-dollar expense Individuals deductions curtailed and phased away. federal tax code, leaving same-sex married allowance, this smaller $25,000 allowance Graduated tax brackets have been ex- For example, for taxpayers under the age couples in Massachusetts and elsewhere to could become a hindrance to small business panded and made “permanent.” Standard of 65 and who itemize deductions, medical file as single-taxpayers at the federal level; expansion. Plan accordingly. ordinary income tax rates are now staggered expenses must now exceed 10 percent of and married-filing-jointly or married-filing- Small and micro-business owners may at 10, 15, 25, 28, 33, 35 and 39.6 percent. adjusted gross income to become “deduct- separately taxpayers at the state level. benefit from a new simplified home-office Top long-term capital gains tax rates are now ible” (taxpayers age 65 and older have Due to this original non-recognition, the deduction option. Rev. Proc. 2013-13 outlines capped at a rate of 20 percent; this higher rate until 2017 to use the 7.5 percent of AGI tax exclusions for many family benefits its use, benefits and limitations. While the threshold). were not allowed. If a same-sex spouse was qualifications for who may deduct home- Connected to this medical expense de- allowed “family” medical coverage, for in- office expenses have not changed, the al- duction limitation, new caps on employee stance, premiums for that health insurance lowable deduction may now be calculated pre-tax FSA (flexible spending account) would have been deemed non-taxable at more simply. contributions and cafeteria-plan programs the state level (the same treatment allowed At its core, a properly qualified taxpayer limit the pre-tax benefit for out-of-pocket heterosexual married couples). At the federal may negate Form 8829, as well as its atten- medical costs to $2,500. There were no limits level, however, those benefits would have dant depreciation calculations, and opt for in prior years – other than those set by the been deemed addition- the simple calculation employer or plan sponsor. al income, and taxed Small and micro-business of the office’s square Lowered deductions such as these have the accordingly. footage multiplied by effect of increasing taxable income. When The ruling creates owners may benefit from a a prescribed rate. The such higher taxable income comes into con- an opportunity for new simplified home-office rate for 2013 is $5 per tact with new higher tax-rate schedules, not a couples to file federal deduction option. square foot, with a max- few taxpayers will be looking at an increased amended tax returns imum allowance of 300 tax bill in the next few months. Without the to recoup taxes previously paid on what are square feet (totaling a maximum deduction earnings raise that never seems to come, pay- now, retroactively, tax-free benefits. The IRS of $1,500 for 2013). ing more tax on the same amount of income has issued Rev. Rul. 2013-17 on this subject, This is an option, not a requirement. If the may be a frustrating economic reality for along with a helpful FAQ review – all of standard process generates a larger deduction, One of many historical many U.S. households this year. which can be found at www.irs.gov. no switch is required. For a small-space home properties we protect In general, taxpayers reporting income office, however, this option can be welcome in excess of $150,000 may be impacted Businesses and worthwhile. every day. to some degree. Those reporting income Many business owners are now reviewing New “Repair Regulations” bear review. above $200,000 should be prepared. Those profit-and-loss statements to determine if The IRS and taxpayers have long argued reporting income above $300,000 should year-end equipment purchases for business over what constitutes a “repair” and what be forewarned – and if you haven’t already upgrade or expansion are appropriate this constitutes an “improvement” – and the Ser- met with your tax advisor, scheduling is year. Special depreciation allowances remain vice has spent a considerable amount of time overdue. for 2013 (50 percent bonus depreciation and identifying and documenting these issues. On the “positive-deduction” side of the high-threshold Section 179 expensing), but Beginning Jan. 1, 2014, these new regula- discussion, contribution amounts for retire- are currently scheduled to drop dramatically tions will be in force. Many taxpayers may 1-800-369-3905 ment accounts have been raised. Tax Year in 2014. not be pleased. 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Glass Bottom Brewery continued from page 1

He and Williams, 27, have been friends dating back to high school days in Belmont. Since going their respective ways onto col- lege and other non-academic pursuits, they remained in contact over the years. They also found that, although taking dif- ferent routes along the way, they had arrived at the same philosophical juncture: one where they saw a growing disconnect between what their academic endeavors were leading them towards and what they envisioned for themselves on a real-world level. “We both came to different conclusions about what we wanted to do with our lives,” Williams explained. “For me, it was agricul- ture. For Ezra, brewing. So we took our two ideas and put them together.” Their interest in these disparate areas took shape against the backdrop of – and, in Williams’ case, during a hiatus from – their college studies. “I got involved in the hobby of home brewing while in college,” said Bloom, who graduated from George Washington University with a degree in international affairs in 2008. His involvement in the hobby continued after graduation. “I stepped up what I was doing,” he said, adding that he gradually came to the realization that it was possible to make a profession out of his avocation. As part of their farming operations, Glass Bottom set up a hopyard on this 1.2-acre site along Route 41 in Housatonic (shown here last May at the start of the By contrast, Bloom said, his undergradu- growing season). Additional acreage nearby is being targeted for grains, root vegetables and other crops that could be used in the brewing process. ate studies fell short in terms of propelling him toward a specific career path. “College Members of his family had relocated enjoyed working with his hands in gardening, within the context of a full-scale brew pub doesn’t really prepare you for life anymore,” from eastern Massachusetts to the southern carpentry and in his family’s locksmith busi- that would combine brewing and food-service he observed. Berkshire town of Monterey, and Williams ness throughout his youth, the circumstances operations (both of which would utilize Williams came to a similar conclusion took up residence there as well. He found of his upper middle class upbringing had products grown through the farming side of during his studies in liberal arts at Cornell work at Gould Farm, a residential therapeutic never led him to consider actually working the business). University. “I took a leave from Cornell for community in Monterey, which combines its with his hands for a living. This concept, however, met head on with three years,” he said, explaining that during mental health mission with actual farming “But it finally occurred to me after a year the hard realities of finance and economics. this hiatus he explored other paths. One of and agricultural operations. at Gould Farm that doing this kind of work “For us, the business plan was key,” said these led him into the realm of agriculture. Williams explained that, although he had felt right for me on several different levels,” Williams. But the plans they put forward to he said. potential financial backers failed to attract Williams followed up his experience at interest. “We did about five plans and talked Gould Farm with work in other agricul- with several banks, but there were no takers,” tural settings, both near (Vermont) and Williams said. Holiday Watch Sale far (Spain). “I was looking at different He attributed this resistance in part to aspects of farming,” he said, with special bankers’ concerns about the more risky attention on new models and niches that fit and capital-intensive nature of brew pubs Now In Progress within changing social, and their food-service economic and environ- “What we’re trying to do is component. mental conditions. be transparent about what we “So we scaled back Williams eventually from our original con- returned to Cornell and do and what we make.” cept to be a brew pub, completed his bachelor’s degree in 2011 – a and looked at what we could do on a self- step that he said was driven solely by prag- financed basis,” said Williams. matic considerations. Scraping together their own savings as While finishing his undergraduate stud- well as money borrowed from their families, ies, however, the concept for Glass Bottom Bloom and Williams set out to set up a more began to take shape. “The crystallization modest venture. “We pulled together about happened while I was back at school,” Wil- $100,000 to start,” said Bloom. “For now, liams said, noting that he and Bloom began we have to live within the limits of what we seriously discussing the possibility of com- can do with that amount.” bining their respective interests in farming What these funds allowed them to do was and brewing. to lease some land for farming, lease some “We talked about whether we could make space for the brewery, and purchase the a business like this work, and asked our- equipment needed for a bare-bones brewing selves if it was worth going for,” Williams operation. recalled. “I knew by then that I wanted to “We were looking to economize every- try my own project, and Ezra felt the same where we could,” said Bloom. “We had to way. So we decided to try to make our own make business decisions about how to keep dreams work.” our overhead low.” On the agricultural side, they made ar- Reality check rangements to lease a 1.2-acre lot along Those dreams centered on combining Route 41 in Housatonic for their hopyard, farming and brewing operations in a way where in 2012 they did the preliminary work that brought added value, integrity and rel- of installing poles and cables to form the evance to both. The name they chose for their trellis on which hops would be cultivated venture – Glass Bottom Brewery – reflected the following year. those goals. This site was augmented by another 5 “It was the first name that stuck,” said acres nearby that were targeted by Williams Bloom dryly. for a variety of crops – from grains to root “What we’re trying to do is be transparent vegetables – that could be used in Bloom’s about what we do and what we make,” he brewing recipes. added more seriously. “We want to show the On the brewing side, they secured a lease depth beneath the boat, and invite people to for 2,000 square feet within the warehouse share in the process.” facility at the Lee Corporate Center. “It was That includes being clear about how the not our ideal site for setting this up, but we beer is made, what ingredients are being got very fair lease terms,” Williams noted. used, and who’s making it. “In the spirit of In keeping with their constrained finances, transparency, we want people to know what the brewing operation was crafted through a STOP & SHOP PLAZA, MERRILL ROAD, PITTSFIELD we’re doing,” said Williams. “We want it to series of carefully considered concessions, be as much about us and the consumer as compromises and creative re-purposing. 442-6911 about the beer.” For example, they determined that they www.medwardjewelers.com Mark E. Kasuba, Gemologist Their lofty goals were initially framed could afford only a three-barrel (100-gallon) Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e 13

On one level, cultivation of hops for their own use will enhance the “sense of place” they are looking to establish for their beer. In the increasingly crowded world of craft brewing, finding ways to distinguish your products from others competing for tap space is an important consideration. And, for some brewers, an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients is an answer. Glass Bottom is looking to take that a step farther, said Wil- liams, “by not only using locally sourced products, but also by growing some of the ingredients for our beer.” This extends beyond the hops they even- tually hope to harvest. Williams said it is possible, at least theoretically, to grow wheat and barley for their own use. And a number of other vegetable crops that Williams cultivated this year have made their way into some of Bloom’s recipes. “From an economic standpoint, you always need a value-added component,” said Wil- liams. “We’re trying to be sensitive to our business needs by creating a beer that has a direct connection to local agriculture.” Aside from tapping consumers’ growing taste for locally produced food (and drink), hops production may also deliver bottom-line benefits for Glass Bottom in other ways. “We’re looking to produce enough to have a surplus for sale,” Williams noted. With prices running as high as $15 a dried pound for eastern hops, he said, a good harvest could create a nice supplemental revenue stream for their business. The partners at Glass Bottom unfurl a banner for their new brewery shortly after receiving their certificate of occupancy in July. The brewing operations are based Such market dynamics are driving a mod- in a 2,000-square-foot space within the Lee Corporate Center, a location that they say has some drawbacks but also came with “very fair lease terms.” est revival of hops farming in the Northeast, including at least one other local operation, operation to start. “At some point we look tification for his system, and no logistical way from the practical to philosophical – blending Hoppy Valley Farm in neighboring Pownal, to support up to seven barrels,” said Bloom. to switch to an alternate heating method (e.g., into an overall pragmatic perspective. Vt. (August 2012 BT&C). “But right now we have the capacity to do natural gas could not be used because of the “I’m not specifically in love with grow- “Hops do grow at this latitude, and they 100 gallons.” brewery’s location in the middle of the ware- ing hops, but I’m doing it to support this,” grow because they like a temperate climate While stainless steel would have been their house complex), Bloom said things looked Williams commented. “You need this large with a cool start and a hot mid-finish,” said preference, they decided to go with plastic bleak for Glass Bottom for a few days. structure [the hops trellis], and there’s a lot Williams. “The reason hops farms are coming fermenting tanks to keep costs down. And However, he and Williams regrouped, com- of up-front effort to get this going. Is there up again in this region is because the farmer they determined that, for now, their product piled additional information about the use of a cost benefit? Is there a return? That’s what hears the cost per pound.” would be packaged and sold in kegs only. their electrical components, and successfully we’ll have to find out.” continued on next page “We’d love to get into bottles,” said Bloom, sought reconsideration of the inspector’s initial referring to the 22-ounce amber glass contain- decision. “It was a bit of a shocker,” Bloom ers that are the preferred retail sales vehicle said, “but it all worked out.” for many craft brewers. “It’s another way to Since that point of hitting what felt like get your beer out to the world.” rock bottom, Glass Bottom has risen to the surface and assumed a reasonably steady Shocker of a setback course of brewing and sales operations – with At one point, in mid-July, however, it Bloom focused on production and Williams looked like their beer might never get out lining up customers among area taverns and to the world in any form when the start-up restaurants. became snagged in a permitting complication WE PROVIDE that threatened to pull the entire operation Hesitant hops under before the first brewing cycle even Integration of the farming component has got underway. been more of a challenge. That stems in part SOLUTIONS THAT Bloom explained that, as part of the process from the negligible harvest of hops from their of setting up their brewery, they had to clear Housatonic hopyard this first season. various hurdles to meet local building code Williams noted that this was not unex- DELIVER YOU and fire safety regulations. Having worked pected, since hop plants generally require with town officials to satisfy these require- an initial growing season to establish root ments, they needed only an electrical sign-off systems that support more robust growth in QUALITY RESULTS. to get their certificate of occupancy. However, subsequent years. the inspector pulled the plug on their opera- “We really didn’t know what kind of tion when he determined that the electrical harvest we’d see this first year, but we were POSTCARDS RACK CARDS POSTERS heating system Bloom had developed for the not expecting to be using our own hops at 500 - $85 500 - $169 50 - $49 brewing process must be UL-certified. this point,” said Williams. 1,000 - $99 1,000 - $199 100 - $89 With no practical means of gaining this cer- Their rationale for growing hops ranges 413BT&Cad_34DepotSt_2c_Layout 1 4/4/13 12:31 PM Page 1 1,500 - $117 1,500 - $234 2,000 - $134 2,000 - $269 2,500 - $149 2,500 - $299 Additional Additional 3 Federico Drive Personal Ads 100’s only $2.98! 100’s only $5.95! Pittsfield, MA 01201

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(413) 822-3483 or view my profile at www.WhalingProperties.com 1-800-PRINT | [email protected] | www.qualprint.com (413) 822-3483 34 Depot St., Pittsfield whalingproperties.com whaling properties 14 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r C e Ja n u a r y 2014 CovERstory continued from previous page beyond what other craft brewers are doing. Until their own hopyard produces a solid “Most craft brewers are playing with the yield, Glass Bottom is utilizing hops as well styles,” he said, noting, for example, the trend as grains from a farm in the neighboring among many to create what’s known as a Pioneer Valley region. Black IPA – a hybrid that combines elements of a stout or porter with the intense “hoppi- Brewing ethos ness” of an India Pale Ale. “My thing is I want While fi ne-tuning the farming operations to use non-traditional ingredients – preferably must now wait until the next growing season, ones that Evan has grown for me – to bring the brewing side of the business has been mov- something different to the mix.” ing along smoothly in their fi rst months. In that sense, he said, the small size of Glass For his part, Bloom remains philosophi- Bottom can be an advantage. “There’s a sense cally committed to the farmer brewer concept. of experimentation that’s part of what we’re “I’m defi nitely passionate about the idea of doing,” he said. “I like to think of a batch as growing our own ingredients or getting them a snowfl ake – each one is unique. That’s part from other local sources as much as possible,” of the charm of being a small brewery.” he said. “But we’re fi nding that you have to Some of that experimentation has involved be pragmatic about how you do this.” recipes utilizing items ranging from sunfl ow- Describing himself as “a progressive ers and blue corn to root crops such as beets, brewer,” Bloom said he is looking to stretch carrots and parsnips. Bloom also has tried the boundaries of conventional beer styles different combinations of herbs in some of his recipes – with varying results. While not all of Bloom’s recipes are market-ready, the half-dozen or so different beers that are currently available refl ect the You have our creativity he brings to the process. Among these is TeaSB – referred to on their website (glassbottombrewery.org) as Undivided their “house beer” – which is Bloom’s take on a traditional Extra Special Bitter that is brewed with Earl Gray tea and lemon zest. On the other end of the spectrum are Attention products such as Trail Magic, an American pale ale inspired by the Appalachian Trail and the trail-mix snack that is ubiquitous among hikers’ supplies. “It’s fruity and nutty DOLLARS & SENSE at the same time,” said Bloom, noting that a Tax & Financial Planning Services® little extra bitterness comes from the cocoa Evan Williams prepares to fi ll a 64-ounce growler with Trail Magic, one of the half-dozen or so beers currently powder used in the recipe. ® being produced at Glass Bottom. While most of the brewery’s products are marketed wholesale to local res- James R. Rose, CFP Other current offerings include Motte-and- taurants and taverns, the growlers can be sold directly to customers at the brewery. Work is also in progress Enrolled Agent Bailey Scottish Ale and Dark Sails Stout, on a tasting room, where visitors will soon be able to sample complimentary two-ounce “pours.” among others. Information about these and (413) 448-9015 other beers, and where they can be found locations in southern and central Berkshire tomers can also purchase beer in 64-ounce locally, is posted on their website. County. It also was well received by craft growlers to take home. Fax: (413) 448-9054 Early on, TeaSB seems to be the most beer afi cionados who attended this year’s Since gaining town approval, they have popular product coming out of Glass Bottom. Berktoberfest in early October. done some modest renovations to one section 222 South St. Professional Building It can be found on tap at about a half-dozen In addition to beers brewed for general of their brewing space to create the tasting Pittsfield, MA 01201 distribution, Glass Bottom has also begun room. Because state licensing for this kind producing custom of operation is on an an- beers for specifi c ven- In addition to beers brewed nual basis, Bloom said, ues. These include a for general distribution, they decided to delay custom-made cask ale debut of their tasting that is available only Glass Bottom has also begun room until the start of at The Prairie Whale producing custom beers for 2014. “We didn’t want (formerly known as specifi c venues, such as a to waste [the annual Bell and Anchor) in fee] for just the two Collaborate Great Barrington. And beer for the holiday season months that were left they have created a beer that can be found exclusively in this year,” he said. for the holiday season (For information about engineering that can be found exclu- at The Morgan House in Lee. Glass Bottom’s tasting architecture sively at The Morgan House in Lee. room, call the brewery at 413-243-6170.) Bloom and Williams said they hope to With more people trying their beer, and civil/survey expand on this aspect of the business with with another growing season just a few planning development of exclusive beers for other months away, the eye-catching hopyard and wholesale customers. trellis along well-traveled Route 41 may They are also looking to broaden exposure gradually become a source of brand aware- to their products beyond consumers who fi nd ness for Glass Bottom rather than an object them at area taverns and restaurants. of curiosity among passers-by. In October, Glass Bottom gained approval “My hops farm is in a very good location from Lee town offi cials to establish a tasting with high visibility,” said Williams. “If I room within their brewery. Bloom explained could ever get a sign up there, that would that this will allow them to offer visitors dramatically increase awareness of what two-ounce tastings of their products. Cus- we’re doing.”◆

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The following real Estate Buyer: Maria Crittelli Price: $200,000 Mortgage: $135,200 5 Ridge Rd. 479 Peru Rd. Buyer: Brian Mclaughlin 39 Fairfield St. transactions are provided by Seller: Orlando Date: 10/25/13 Lender: Berkshire Bank Buyer: Charles Minkoff Buyer: Pater Martin + Seller: Anne Levine Buyer: Mark Drumm + Banker & Tradesman Real Magnifico + Date: 11/7/13 Seller: Janise Bogard Seller: Judith Gladden Price: $167,000 Seller: Stephen Shambo Estate Data Publishing. Only Price: $90,000 Price: $375,000 Price: $1,300,000 Date: 10/25/13 Price: $150,000 properties valued at $75,000 Mortgage: $93,622 Becket 117 Glennon Ave. Mortgage: $150,000 Date: 11/1/13 Mortgage: $105,000 or higher are included. Lender: Academy Mtg Buyer: DTK LLC Lender: Lee Bank Lender: Greylock FCU Date: 10/24/13 28 Andrews Rd. Seller: 1307 North Street Date: 11/1/13 Monterey Date: 10/28/13 Buyer: Greylock FCU LLC Lanesboro Adams 117 Orchard St. Seller: Caroline Cook + Price: $141,000 22 Heberts Cove 111 Greenwich St. Buyer: Michael Delisle + Price: $168,000 Mortgage: $112,000 Florida 9 Baglee Ave. Buyer: Bradley Marcus + Buyer: Shaylynn Collins + 4 2nd St. Seller: John Dabrowski + Date: 10/31/13 Lender: Pittsfield Coop Buyer: Jonathan Romeo + Seller: Donald Batista Seller: Helen Reilly Buyer: Robert Lebeau Price: $105,000 Date: 10/25/13 217 Central Shaft Rd. Seller: Leonard Baker Price: $537,500 Price: $129,900 Seller: Kevin Flynn Mortgage: $84,000 29 Birch Ln. Buyer: James Bourdon + Price: $140,000 Mortgage: $200,000 Mortgage: $103,920 Price: $161,500 Lender: Greylock FCU Buyer: CEJG Investment 322 Hinsdale Rd. Seller: Norman Hass Jr Mortgage: $124,600 Lender: Lee Bank Lender: Pittsfield Coop Mortgage: $126,500 Date: 11/6/13 LLC Buyer: Kevin Stottle Price: $123,500 Lender: Pittsfield Coop Date: 11/7/13 Date: 11/8/13 Lender: Greylock FCU Seller: Norman Colburn + Seller: Gerald Calahan Jr + Mortgage: $98,800 Date: 11/1/13 Date: 10/24/13 18 Overlook Ter. Price: $100,000 Price: $202,000 Lender: Adams Community 46 Harding St. Buyer: Ann Scott Date: 11/8/13 Mortgage: $161,600 Date: 10/25/13 9 Leslie Ave. Mount Buyer: Robert Llana + 23 Bobs Hill Seller: Corey Shafer Lender: Village Mtg Buyer: Michelle Murphy + Seller: Robert Cronin Buyer: Taylor Hitchcock + Price: $78,000 287 Long Bow Ln. W Date: 11/5/13 Seller: Jessica Harvey + Washington Price: $131,000 Seller: Marie Kirchner Mortgage: $62,400 Buyer: Matthew Connell + Great Price: $102,000 40 East St. Date: 10/28/13 Price: $129,000 Lender: Adams Community Seller: Mary Kennelly + 111-113 Pleasant St. Mortgage: $100,152 Buyer: Krista Mcghee + Mortgage: $103,000 Date: 10/24/13 Price: $241,670 Buyer: Tammy Noummano + Barrington Lender: Quicken Loan Seller: Douglas Kimpel + 217 Holmes Rd. Lender: MountainOne Date: 10/25/13 Seller: Thomas Mathews 11 Cone Ave Date: 10/28/13 Price: $98,000 Buyer: Elizabeth Kapner Date: 10/29/13 53 Park St. IRT + Buyer: Heather Twing Mortgage: $93,100 Seller: Marjorie Bannish Buyer: Richard Solomon Jr Price: $80,000 Seller: William Funk 15 Squanto Rd. Lender: Salisbury B&T LT + 4 Hathaway St. Seller: Steepleview T + Cheshire Mortgage: $64,000 Price: $152,500 Buyer: Jill Ryder Date: 11/8/13 Price: $193,000 Buyer: Sandra Furey Price: $155,000 Lender: Greylock FCU Mortgage: $149,737 Seller: Patricia Phillips Mortgage: $85,000 Seller: Brigitte Nendel + Mortgage: $116,300 495 Harbor Rd. Date: 11/5/13 Lender: Academy Mtg Price: $149,000 Lender: MountainOne Price: $166,000 Lender: Adams Community Buyer: Ashley Contois + Date: 11/1/13 Mortgage: $119,200 New Date: 10/31/13 Mortgage: $149,200 Date: 11/1/13 Seller: Smachetti FT + 148 Sleepy Hollow Lender: MountainOne Lender: Adams Community Price: $263,000 Buyer: Richard Rowe + 15 Cone Ave. Date: 10/23/13 Marlboro 247 Holmes Rd. Date: 11/4/13 4 Edmunds St. U:N102 Mortgage: $236,437 Seller: Michael Quinn + Buyer: Michael Spratt + Mill River Great Buyer: Dawn Ramsey- Buyer: Smachetti FT + Lender: Adams Community Price: $425,000 Seller: Kathleen Kikuchi 65 Swamp Rd. Buyer: D Charles Petersen T + Jacobsson 21 Murray St. Seller: Jeffrey Lincoln Date: 10/25/13 Mortgage: $340,000 Price: $110,000 Buyer: Thomas Weber + Seller: Janice Filimon Seller: Nancy Brindley Lender: BNC National Mortgage: $104,500 Seller: Daniel Gaylord + Price: $224,600 Price: $190,000 59 Furnace Hill Rd. Date: 10/31/13 Lender: Greylock FCU Price: $295,000 Date: 10/31/13 Mortgage: $180,500 Buyer: Scott Mccormick + Date: 11/1/13 Mortgage: $265,000 Lender: Berkshire Bank LENOX COMMERCIAL Seller: Virginia Mach 1101 South St. Lender: Adams Community Date: 10/31/13 Price: $148,500 Buyer: Holly Heck 1624 County Rd. Date: 10/21/13 North Adams PROPERTIES Mortgage: $151,500 Seller: Beverly Page + Buyer: FHLM 28 Lathers Ave. Lender: Adams Community Price: $127,900 Seller: David Arnold + 186 W. Shaft Rd. Buyer: Abigail Lemanski Date: 10/21/13 Mortgage: $121,505 Price: $244,094 Lee Buyer: Terrence Coyne + Seller: Carl Boteze Jr Lender: Lee Bank Date: 11/1/13 Seller: David Willette + Price: $101,000 Date: 10/23/13 19 Franklin St. Price: $140,000 Mortgage: $112,000 Clarksburg 41 Grove St. Buyer: Alan Wilcox + Date: 11/7/13 Lender: Lenox Natl 1113 South St. Buyer: Richard Coons + Seller: Dawn Connell NT + Date: 10/30/13 444 N. Houghton St. Buyer: William Knowles Seller: Lucille Price: $685,000 29 Walker St. Buyer: Warren Turner + Seller: Old Stagecoach LLC Montgomery NT + Date: 10/31/13 Buyer: Logan Maestri 228 Lebanon Ave. Seller: Fisher Donna Est + Price: $275,000 Price: $128,700 Seller: Delisle James Est Buyer: Kevin Wojtkowski + Price: $101,500 Mortgage: $247,500 Mortgage: $175,000 210 Greylock St. Price: $110,000 Seller: 228 Lebanon Ave Date: 10/22/13 Lender: Greylock FCU Lender: Greylock FCU Buyer: Benjamin Towne 4th Mortgage: $110,000 LLC Date: 11/1/13 Date: 10/25/13 Seller: Trisha Machado Lender: WestStar Mtg Price: $148,500 Price: $182,750 Date: 10/31/13 Mortgage: $141,075 Dalton 60 North St. U:5 22 High St. Mortgage: $186,679 Lender: Greylock FCU Buyer: Linda Coll Buyer: Adams Medina + Lender: Academy Mtg Date: 10/31/13 RETAIL & OFFICES IN HEART 46 Burr Dr. Seller: Barbara North Seller: 22 High Street LLC Date: 10/25/13 Otis Buyer: Gary Dinicola Price: $90,000 Price: $156,000 266 Linden St. OF DOWNTOWN LENOX Seller: Anne Gannon Mortgage: $80,000 Mortgage: $124,800 940 Pleasant St. 44 Drive C Buyer: HSBC Bank USA NA Prime Church Street location with over Price: $139,000 Lender: Pittsfield Coop Lender: Pittsfield Coop Buyer: Great Barrington Buyer: Daniel Ciejek + Seller: Alice Chilcoat + 9,000 sq. ft. of Mixed Commercial space Mortgage: $134,830 Date: 10/25/13 Date: 10/28/13 Sunoco Seller: Robert Power Price: $97,750 Lender: Greylock FCU Seller: Frank Consolati + Price: $479,000 Date: 10/22/13 in two historic buildings. Date: 10/25/13 1084 Main St. Price: $310,000 Date: 10/30/13 $1,195,000 Egremont Buyer: Robert Robertson + Mortgage: $276,500 87 Maple Grove Dr. 30 Cliff St. Seller: Jean Sonner Lender: Lee Bank Buyer: Michael Mcneil Buyer: Keith Cooper T + 119 Egremont Plain Rd. Price: $384,000 Date: 10/21/13 Peru Seller: Cozzi Fiora Est + Seller: Cooper Nancy Est + Buyer: David Pott + Mortgage: $356,150 Price: $82,000 Price: $155,000 Seller: Stephen Thurn + Lender: Pittsfield Coop 156 W. Park St. 27 E. Windsor Rd. Date: 10/21/13 Date: 10/21/13 Price: $380,000 Date: 11/8/13 Buyer: CDG Properties LLC Buyer: William Raschdorf Mortgage: $304,000 Seller: W Park Terrace LLC Seller: Kevin Virgilio 62 New Hampshire Ave. 187 Curtis Ave. Lender: Village Mtg 4 Muddy Brook Cir. Price: $2,475,000 Price: $162,000 Buyer: MHFA Buyer: Gregory Elser Date: 10/24/13 Buyer: Henneth Sold + Date: 11/7/13 Date: 10/21/13 Seller: Frances Zerbato + Seller: Goodrich Kinsley Seller: Stefanie Glennon + Price: $90,525 Est + 71 Main St. Price: $485,000 Laurel Lake Cross Rd U:10 11 Lakeview Rd. Date: 10/21/13 Price: $130,000 Buyer: Lee Bank Mortgage: $412,250 Buyer: Michael Kaplan + Buyer: Matawin Ventures T+ Mortgage: $120,000 Seller: DWK Egremont Lender: Citibank Seller: Enlightennext Inc Seller: Dale Armstrong 36 Oliver Ave. Lender: Greylock FCU LLC Date: 10/28/13 Price: $380,000 Price: $100,000 Buyer: David Thomas + Date: 10/31/13 Price: $399,500 Date: 11/8/13 Date: 10/23/13 Seller: Teresa Giardina Date: 11/5/13 18 Squaw Peak Rd. Price: $146,500 813 Dalton Division Rd Buyer: Jeffrey Mortgage: $117,200 PRIME ROUTE 7 LOCATION Buyer: Dalton Division 91 Mount Washington Rd. Routhenberge + Lenox Pittsfield Lender: Greylock FCU Historic Schoolhouse now office + single family Dev LLC Buyer: Paul Sierau + Seller: Richard Cote + Date: 11/8/13 Seller: Dalton Div Corner Seller: Jenny Herring + Price: $350,000 10 Birchwood Ln. 115 Broadview Ter. rental home – or tear down home and build Shops Price: $185,000 Mortgage: $280,000 Buyer: Tsungda Hsu + Buyer: Nicholas 12 Pembroke Ave. onto schoolhouse. C3A Commercial zoning. Price: $320,000 Mortgage: $152,000 Lender: Florence SB Seller: Jeffrey Aaron Hoffmeister + Buyer: Zackary Marcotte Mortgage: $250,000 Lender: Lee Bank Date: 10/25/13 Price: $450,000 Seller: Greylock FCU Seller: Thomas Weber $375,000 Lender: MountainOne Date: 10/30/13 Mortgage: $360,000 Price: $114,900 Price: $139,900 Date: 11/6/13 504 Stockbridge Rd. Lender: Discover Home Mortgage: $112,818 Mortgage: $137,365 175 Mount Washington Rd. Buyer: Bruce Chipps + Date: 10/22/13 Lender: Berkshire Bank Lender: Academy Mtg 33 Florence St. Buyer: Nature Conservancy Seller: James Santos Date: 11/8/13 Date: 10/21/13 Buyer: Ronald Griffin + Seller: Paula Cashin Price: $112,500 74 Old Stockbridge Rd Seller: Michael Morrison Price: $175,000 Date: 11/8/13 Buyer: Timothy Hart + 23 Cobble Stone Cove 14 Richardson St. Price: $169,000 Date: 10/21/13 Seller: Gardner Verna Est + Buyer: Eric Lamet + Buyer: 23rd Century Corp 94 West Ave. Price: $261,555 Seller: Begert William Est + Seller: Michael Klinger + Buyer: Ann Morrell Date: 10/31/13 Price: $220,000 Price: $142,000 Seller: Lee Bank Mortgage: $176,000 Date: 10/31/13 Price: $282,000 36 Schermerhorn Park Lender: Pittsfield Coop Mortgage: $197,400 Buyer: Maple Leaf Date: 11/7/13 69 Richmond Ave. Lender: Pittsfield Coop Properties LLP Buyer: Gabrielle Williams Date: 11/4/13 Seller: George Keator 152 Cole Ave. Seller: Mount Emily Props Price: $560,000 Buyer: Alma NT + Price: $100,000 80 Taconic Ave. U:12 Date: 10/22/13 Seller: USA HUD Mortgage: $105,476 Buyer: Martha Hawkins Price: $83,500 Lender: Edwin Helitzer Seller: Carolyn Dunne 5 Shaylor Hill Rd. Date: 11/6/13 Date: 10/25/13 Price: $350,000 Buyer: Austin Frye + Mortgage: $225,000 Seller: Yokun Ridge Prop 403 Crane Ave. 30 Sheffield St. Lender: Berkshire Bank Mgmt LLC Buyer: Gary Obrien Buyer: Greylock FCU Date: 10/23/13 Price: $225,000 Seller: Begin Betty Est + Seller: Louis Kahlenbeck + Date: 10/28/13 Price: $190,000 Price: $125,000 Mortgage: $135,000 Date: 11/8/13 Hancock Evergreen Trail U:21 Lender: Greylock FCU Buyer: Dmitriy Shoutov + Date: 10/31/13 400 South St. 37 Corey Rd. U:631 Seller: Lenox Woods at Buyer: Jared Keegan Buyer: Michael Jackson Kennedy Pk 26 Edward Ave. Seller: Gamwell Realty LLC Seller: Cecile Roth Price: $360,900 Buyer: Lee Bank Price: $137,500 Price: $85,000 Mortgage: $280,000 Seller: Manuel Reyes + Mortgage: $122,375 Date: 10/31/13 Lender: Pittsfield Coop Price: $117,000 Lender: Pittsfield Coop Date: 11/1/13 Date: 11/7/13 Date: 11/4/13

Hinsdale 46 Housatonic St. U:PHS 26 Edward Ave. 187 Stearns Ave. Buyer: Carole Dorris Buyer: Emilie Papa Buyer: Jeffrey Brunette + 262 George Schnopp Rd. Seller: RRT Realty LLC Seller: Lee Bank Seller: Richard Rocheleau + Buyer: Greylock FCU + Price: $417,500 Price: $110,000 Price: $131,900 Seller: Kris Sargent + Date: 10/25/13 Mortgage: $116,000 Mortgage: $125,300 Price: $75,000 Lender: Lee Bank Lender: Greylock FCU Date: 10/24/13 20 Meadow Ln. U:5 Date: 11/7/13 Date: 11/6/13 *UHHQ%XVLQHVV&DUHHUV&HUWLŵFDWH2IIHUHG7KURXJK%&& Program runs from January – June 2014. Includes a credit course in Renewable Energy and non-credit courses in Life and Work Skills, Business Math, Career Coaching, and Computer Literacy. This program is o ered at no cost to those who qualify. The Green Business Careers Certificate will allow individuals to: Contact: Audrey Clairmont


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banner ad - BTC green 2013.indd 1 12/2/13 1:29 PM Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e 17 Berkshire County real estate transfers

16 Strong Ave. Buyer: Asa Palmer + Buyer: FNMA Seller: Greylock FCU Seller: Elizabeth Simmons + Price: $285,000 Established homebuilder offers help on smaller tasks with Consider It Done Price: $110,000 Date: 11/8/13 Date: 10/31/13 By John Townes tomers, Consider It Done (413-458-3444) will consult with the customer to work out 9 Squire Ln. 376 Tyler St. Buyer: Greylock FCU Building a home is a major undertaking. provides its services for the general public a plan and budget. Buyer: 376 Tyler Street Seller: Elissa Tinker + Fixing problems and keeping a property in and businesses throughout the Berkshires. Cummings said they see great potential LLC Price: $140,000 good shape over time is another challenge. “Often people don’t know who to call when for Consider It Done, and that it will expand Seller: Richard Quintero + Date: 10/25/13 Price: $150,000 As a homebuilding firm, Cummings Gen- they need something done, or they take their based on demand. “There is a learning curve Mortgage: $120,000 eral Contracting Inc. (www.cummingsgc. chances with a handyman or contractor that for us in organizing this,” he said. “We’re Lender: Greylock FCU Stockbridge Date: 11/5/13 com) has long been focused primarily on the they don’t really know,” Cummings said. taking things as they come, and will grow 13 Ice Glen Rd. construction of new custom homes or addi- “That can lead to problems.” this on a slow and steady basis. What I’d 33 Walden Ln. Buyer: Stockbridge Buyer: Stephen Levine + Boulder Farm tions. Based in Williamstown and owned by really like is for us to eventually have at Seller: Joan Levine + Seller: Richard Hadar + Albert and Christina Cummings, the business “There’s a lot of demand least one fully equipped van with one or Price: $209,000 Price: $4,500,000 Mortgage: $113,000 Date: 11/1/13 has built dozens of homes in the region over for this.” more people working full time doing jobs Lender: NBT Bank its 26 years. for Consider It Done.” Date: 10/28/13 19 Ice Glen Rd. Buyer: Francis Burnes 3rd + Now, the couple have expanded their “Over the years, we’ve developed a good He said the initial response has been en- Seller: John Carrington + activities with a new affiliated business they reputation,” he continued. “Many people are couraging. “When we launched this, we sent Price: $2,725,000 Date: 10/22/13 have named Consider It Done. familiar with us and consider us to be trustwor- out an email to people we know, and we got That business is focused on providing thy. We handle all the details, so that customers walloped by the response,” he said. “There’s 53 Interlaken Rd. Buyer: Edward Baldwin + additional home and property services on can be confident that they are working with a lot of demand for this.” Seller: Alan Righi + demand. These range from small tasks such someone who knows what they’re doing and Beyond his homebuilding skills, Cum- Price: $80,000 as hanging pictures and cleaning out gutters, has proper credentials and insurance.” mings is also familiar to many Berkshire Date: 11/5/13 to larger jobs like clearing out a garage, up He noted that, while the homebuilding residents for another reason. He is a popular West to major remodeling projects. company and Consider It Done are separate blues guitarist who performs in this region Stockbridge “We’ll do whatever people need, no matter businesses, they are also closely related. and in other locations. He has developed a how big or small it is,” said Albert Cummings, Cummings said, as a homebuilder, he has dedicated following, and has performed with 26 Iron Mine Rd. 368 Williams St. Buyer: Jeffrey Mason who is a fourth-generation homebuilder. “As cultivated a network of qualified people who many well-known musicians. He is continu- Buyer: Michael Williams Seller: Peter Paulson + the name suggests, anyone can call us and work with him regularly or are available on ing to pursue his musical activities. Seller: 368 Williams St NT Price: $310,000 Price: $176,000 Mortgage: $280,000 then consider it done.” call. He said either he or one of those workers However, he emphasized, the contracting Mortgage: $163,900 Lender: Peter Paulson The idea for the business was prompted will handle the jobs for Consider It Done. business is his primary focus. Lender: Cecil Williams Date: 11/6/13 Date: 10/22/13 by frequent requests for additional services “The two businesses will operate in uni- “Often, when a new CD or tour date is Maple Hill Rd. from their homebuilding customers. son,” he said. “The major difference now is announced, people ask me if I’m leaving 1 Colt Rd. U:9 Buyer: William Harrington Sr + Buyer: Nancy Brindley Seller: James Vosburgh “We’ve been building homes around priority. Rather than customers having to wait the building business and going into music Seller: Michael Mccarthy + Price: $145,000 Berkshire County for years, and we’ve devel- until we are able to get around to it, we will full time,” Cummings said. “I’m passion- Price: $135,000 Mortgage: $100,000 Date: 10/31/13 Lender: Pittsfield Coop oped a lot of relationships with customers,” always have at least one person designated ate about my music, but it’s a hobby. If my Date: 10/31/13 said Cummings. “People always need other to do jobs for Consider It Done in a timely hobby were hunting or something like that, things done later on, and they call us to help way. So, now matter how busy we are with a no one would be paying any attention. But Richmond 87 Maple Hill Rd. Buyer: Ernest Simson + them out. I’ve been willing to do that. But project, we’ll always have at least one person since it’s music, that hobby is in the public 380 Stevens Glen Rd. Seller: Elissa Singer RET + we’ve always had to schedule those jobs available for Consider It Done.” eye. However, I’m a builder. That’s what my Buyer: Molly Montemagni Price: $1,600,000 Seller: Anthony Doyle + Mortgage: $1,000,000 around our homebuilding projects when we He added that rates are based on the job. family has done for four generations, and Price: $360,333 Lender: JP Morgan Chase can fit them in. So people have often had to For larger jobs, such as remodeling, they that’s what I’ll always be.”u Mortgage: $361,000 Date: 11/8/13 Lender: United Shore wait until I or one of our workers can get Date: 10/22/13 134 W. Center Rd. around to it.” Buyer: Stephen Thurn + Seller: James Pshenishny He said that his wife Christina suggested ideal space for professional & medical offices Sheffield Price: $430,000 establishing a business focused on handling Mortgage: $408,500 those jobs on a more organized basis. That 175 Fiddlehead Trail Lender: Lee Bank Allendale Shopping Center Buyer: ABDCS Dream LLC Date: 10/30/13 led them to start Consider It Done. Seller: Nancy Schumann + Price: $477,000 Cummings explained that the new business Level One (lower level) – 500 to 2,800 s/f available Date: 11/5/13 Williamstown schedules jobs and arranges for workers and Plenty of Free Parking • Elevator • Central Heat & A/C incl. other details as a separate operation, rather 150 Hillside Ln. 212 Main St. Up to o n e y e a r For Leasing Information Contact: Buyer: Betsey Hallihan Buyer: DJ2Z LLC than working around the demands of the Seller: Donald Roeder Seller: Dutch NT homebuilding business. free rent Glenn Langenback • Property Manager Price: $200,000 Price: $2,491,039 w i t h a 5-y e a r l e a s e . Date: 11/1/13 Mortgage: $2,491,039 He pointed out that, beyond handling (for a limited time only) Tel: 413-236-5957 • Cell: 413-464-4211 Lender: Dutch NT requests from their own homebuilding cus- [email protected] 1532 Salisbury Rd. Date: 10/25/13 u Allendale Shopping Center • 5 Cheshire Road • Suite 60 • Pittsfield, MA 01201

Mark McKenna Heather Bartini Erin Carlotto Business Banking Personal Banking Mortgage Banking

MEMBER FDIC/MEMBER DIF EQUAL HOUSING LENDER 18 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e Ja n u a r y 2014 ARTS & culture

Broker Bob Romeo discovers Taking the floor: delights of ballroom dancing

Bob Romeo, broker-owner of Century 21 Franklin St. Associates, and his partner Susan Schwartz trip the light fantastic at the Nov. 16 Thanksgiving Celebration, one of the monthly dances held by Berkshire Ballroom Chapter 3045. Having discovered ballroom dancing three years ago, Romeo now serves as president of the local chapter, which is drawing a growing number of people onto the dance floor for fun and social interaction.

By John Townes Among those who are tripping the light “As an Italian, I grew up attending wed- able social outlet. “Ballroom dances are an It’s a Saturday night in mid-November in fantastic on this night is Bob Romeo, who dings and other social events where there opportunity for comfortable socializing,” Pittsfield, and the auditorium on the lower is a familiar face in the Berkshire business was a lot of this type of dancing going on,” he said. “They’re not like bars and it’s not a level of the Masonic Hall at 116 South St. community as a longtime real estate profes- he said. “I remember seeing the people who dating scene. There’s none of that pressure. is filled with couples gliding across the floor sional. He is the broker-owner of Century danced effortlessly and admiring them. I It’s easygoing fun. Everybody dances with while dancing to up-tempo standards com- 21 Franklin St. Associates, with offices in danced at parties, too, everybody, and you get ing out of a set of large speakers. Scattered Pittsfield and Lenox. but I was busy with my “Our mission is to introduce to know a lot of people among the chairs on either side of the hall, Romeo is also president of the Berkshire work and family and people to the world of and make friends.” other people are watching or chatting among Ballroom Chapter 3045, which holds regular didn’t have the time to He added that he themselves. Near the entrance is a table of dances and conducts other activities to pro- really learn how to get ballroom dance and expose also found that it is soft drinks, juice and snacks of the sort often mote ballroom dancing in the county. good at it.” the dance opportunities that rejuvenating. found at community events. Three years ago, at age 68, Romeo found a But several years are available to the public.” “I dropped 25 pounds This is the Thanksgiving Celebration, one new passion in life as a devotee of ballroom ago, with his children since I started dancing, of the regular monthly dances sponsored by dancing. Today, at 71, he estimates that he grown and his business well-established, he and I’m as fit as anyone I know,” he said. the Berkshire Ballroom Chapter 3045 of USA travels hundreds of miles a week to partici- began to focus on his latent love of dancing “It’s a great way to get exercise and stay Dance Inc. The group is a nonprofit local pate in ballroom dance gatherings around more seriously. He noted that his office is youthful.” affiliate of USA Dance, a national organiza- the region. fully staffed, and, while he continues to tion that promotes ballroom dancing, which Romeo said that he had always enjoyed work at the business, he described himself “Disciplined dancing” includes the tango, waltz, rhumba, cha-cha, dancing on a casual basis but didn’t pursue as semi-retired. The general category of ballroom dancing swing and similar styles. it seriously until relatively late in life. “Some friends invited me to try ballroom (also known as social dancing) is diverse, but dancing, and then I started taking lessons,” he the styles that fit under that definition follow said. “I loved it and became addicted. I even certain basic guidelines. remodeled a room in my house to create a Ballroom dances such as the foxtrot and dance studio where I can practice. I also got the waltz are comprised of a series of specific Northern Berkshire active in the local dance community and then movements – or “figures” – that flow into became president of the Berkshire Chapter each other, explained Romeo. Healthcare welcomes of USA Dance.” While many of these dances provide op- Romeo is also using the salesmanship skills portunity for individual variations, a ballroom he honed in real estate to promote ballroom dance style is based on a particular set of Nina Molin, MD dancing and attract new participants. patterned movement and positions. “Our mission is to introduce people to “You could call it disciplined dancing,” to Northern Berkshire the world of ballroom dance and expose said Romeo. “People may have distinctive the dance opportunities that are available forms, but the dance is based on specific Family Medicine to the public,” said Romeo. “As president, movements.” I’ve been working hard to advance that goal The other primary characteristic of ball- because I want other people to discover the room dancing is the close physical contact benefits of ballroom dancing.” and coordination between two dance partners. MEDICAL EDUCATION ADDITIONAL INFORMATION In addition to the sheer enjoyment of Also, one partner takes the lead and guides University of New York at Stony Brook Dr. Molin most recently was a staff dancing itself, he said it provides a comfort- the other person. Generally, the male takes physician and integrative medicine POST-GRADUATE TRAINING specialist at Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Internship and residency in internal Massachusetts and private practice, medicine primary care at the University consulting with patients on diverse -
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of Rochester School of Medicine and medical needs including chronic Dentistry. Dr. Molin is board certified by disorders, nutritional medicine, the American Board of women’s health, preventive medicine JO
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Dr. Molin is accepting new patients and may be reached at 413.664.4088

'RACIOUS2ETIREMENT,IVING3INCE 3OUTH3TREET 0ITTSlELD -!ssWWWBERKSHIREPLACECOM Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r C e 19

the lead, but women can also lead if that is high profi le and helped to attract younger Romeo said the TV exposure has raised “Nearby areas like Albany have large and predetermined by the partners. participants. the level of interest. However, he also em- active dance communities, and there are “In ballroom dancing, the two partners “Dance was a signifi cant form of popular phasized that the style of performance dance opportunities there for people who are very move together and communicate with ges- entertainment through the 1920s to the ’40s,” on these programs is a very different level dedicated and want to focus on the competi- tures,” Romeo said. That is different from said Romeo. “But as than most recreational tive levels,” he said. “Here, our focus is more other forms of dance, where movement is other things became “Shows like Dancing with dancers achieve or as- on enjoyment.” more individual. available to do, people the Stars have helped pire to. He added, however, that the chapter does “With other styles, even if a dancer has didn’t go dancing as “Shows like Danc- include regular showcases, where people who a partner, they are not necessarily in physi- much.” because they energize ing with the Stars have have developed more elaborate and challeng- cal connection with each other, and their Dancing never dis- people to want to dance.” helped because they ing dance routines can show their stuff. movements do not have to be in sync with appeared, but ballroom energize people to want “It gives people a chance to perform in each other,” he said. “Ballroom is different dancing was also somewhat overshadowed to dance,” he said. “But the dancing on those public, and it’s a motivator for others who because the partners work closely together by more casual popular tastes and musical shows is more like a gymnastic event. Learn- watch it,” he said. as they move.” styles that brought different forms of danc- ing and perfecting the kind of routines and The Berkshire Chapter generally holds It is also distinct from another basic cat- ing to the fore. moves they make requires a great deal of dances on a monthly basis. Admission to egory known as line dancing, which includes Nevertheless, the styles of ballroom hard work and practice to achieve.” most dances is $9 for members and $13 for traditional genres such as square dancing and dancing remained staples, and the live and He added that the Berkshire Chapter is non-members. Information is available on more contemporary country-and-western televised competitions have given them an oriented to recreational dance rather than the group’s website at www.berkshireball- variations. injection of fl amboyant showmanship. competitive levels and showmanship. room.org.◆ Romeo explained that while line dancing may also involve partners and predetermined routines and movements, partners are not business with a bonus. always together and the interaction is based more on groups. Get comfortable even when you’re getting down to business. At Romeo said the Berkshire Chapter has Hampton, you’ll be surrounded by thoughtful amenities that make work a pleasure. Plus, you can earn Hilton HHonors® points and airline miles about 100 members. While it is open to all with every stay. You’ll be 100% satisfied. Guaranteed. ages, most members are over 40. He emphasized that the group and its events are open to dancers of all levels of ability, but people with no prior experience are encouraged to learn the basic steps prior to stepping out on the fl oor. The club offers instructional sessions in specifi c featured styles before the monthly 100% satisfaction clean and fresh FREE guarantee Hampton bed® fresh waffles dances begin. “We also publicize instructors in the area who offer lessons,” noted Romeo. “Learning the dances is basically a matter of remember- ing repetitive movements. Once you have memorized that, it becomes like walking.”

® tv shows boost visibility we love having you here. Ballroom dancing has undergone a resurgence in popularity and visibility in Hampton Inn & Suites Berkshires/Lenox, MA • 445 Pittsfield Road • Lenox, Massachusetts recent years, including greater interest in www.berkshireslenoxsuites.hamptoninn.com • 413-499-1111 competitive-level dancing. Television shows Hilton HHonors membership, earnings of Points & Miles® and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. ©2011 like Dancing With the Stars have given it a Hilton Worldwide 20 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r C e Ja n u a r y 2014 MaRKEt place tools of thE tRaDE If you have numerous segments to your So, what should be in your newsletter? Deb Hastings Watson, business, you will have even more catego- Let’s start with what should not be in it: it Customer Retention owner of Business ries for your marketing. The more specifi c should not just be about you and what’s go- Marketplace (413-281- you can be in terms of the right message for ing on in your company. I had a client that 3476 or deb@business the right people, the higher your return on would feature a Customer of the Month or program should be marketplace.com), investment. Employee of the Month – the people receiv- provides website, ing the newsletters didn’t care about that. It’s high on priority list marketing and graphic surveys not about you – it’s about them! It is good to design services. Have you ever noticed that once you buy include if you have new products or services By deB hasTInGs waTson a car or have a visit to the hospital, sud- to share. I have had retailers who have two In this space last month I wrote about the it is diffi cult and costly. But it does involve denly you’re getting calls, mail and email categories each week: one is about a new importance of showing your appreciation being consistent and professional. asking you about your experience? This is product, the other about something that’s for your customers’ business – along with a so smart! on sale – perfect! reminder that it costs much more to get a new Where do you start? Surveys are a wonderful way of fi nding Your newsletter must present usable in- customer than it does to keep your existing Start with your present and most recent out how you’re really formation of value to customers happy! customers. Too many assume that if someone doing, if you’re still If you don’t want your the readers, even if it So, beyond the holiday season, how do has already done business with you, you don’t meeting your custom- is not specifi cally about you maintain the relationship with your have to market to them. You have to be more ers’ needs, and if there customers to take you for your industry. You can customers? You need to develop a Customer than an order taker. You have to stay in touch is anything else you granted, don’t take them still present informa- Retention Program. Just because it has an with them, even when they’re not active could be doing or ways for granted! tion about your com- offi cial-sounding name does not mean that customers, to ensure that someone else hasn’t of improving your busi- pany – new products or snagged them to be their customer! ness. Make sure you give a lot of thought to services, new employee they’ll likely have Here’s an example: I knew an attorney the questions you ask, giving the responder contact with, etc., with a link to your website. “any job large or small… who did estate planning. He got very upset the opportunity to share their thoughts in both Just remember: all marketing must answer we do it right or not at all.” when he learned that his estate clients were a “scale of 1 to 10” basis, but also the ability the question, “What’s in it for me?” using other attorneys for other areas of law. to provide a written statement. He had never told them the other areas of Surveys can be sent in the mail or elec- Up-selling and cross-selling expertise represented by his fi rm. tronically; you will get more completed Too often, we think of a customer as only You must continue to include your present responses if they can remain anonymous. being interested in what they’ve bought and past customers in your marketing efforts Depending upon the product or service, from us in the past. This is very narrow so that they are constantly being reminded some may fi nd they can get a response thinking. You should always be thinking of that you’re there, ready to help them when and know who responded by offering an ways of up-selling and cross-selling to your www.morrisonshomeimprovement.com you need them; and so that they are aware of incentive to respond – discount coupon, customers. all that you offer, even if it’s not something free item, etc. Not all aspects of your Customer Reten- they’ve turned to you for in the past. I strongly recommend those who sell tion Program will be done en masse. Some • Windows • Custom Build higher ticket items and services to follow-up things can best be done one-on-one, either • Siding • Roofs divide your database with your customers after the sale or job is in person or with direct marketing. If you’re • Additions • Decks I’m making an assumption here that you completed. This will provide you with more not sure of how that would work, here are • Remodeling • Gutters have a customer database of some sort on than information about whether customers a couple of examples to get the creative • Kitchen/Baths • Handyman Services your computer (if it’s still on paper, you like what you did; you can also make sure juices fl owing: have a project you can tackle this winter). that your staff are doing their jobs well, are You sold your customer a car. After three sHowroom That being said, I recommend dividing your polite to the customers, cleaning up after years, you might want to try to entice them database into four categories: themselves, etc. This is also a wonderful to use this car as a trade-in on a nicer model 674 north street, pittsfi eld, ma 01201 • Present Customers time to introduce an incentive for referring (up-selling). Or you might want them to Phone: 413-442-3001 • Past Customers people to your company. purchase a better sound system, automatic car Fax: 413-443-8066 • Warm Prospects starter or fancy wheels (cross-selling). • Cold Prospects newsletters I developed a website for a client; it was a Award Winning – Customer Driven Another effective method of staying in bare bones site that provided an Internet pres- touch is a newsletter. With today’s technol- ence but little more. A year later, they were ogy, you can choose conventional (print) or ready to upgrade to a more comprehensive electronic (e-newsletter). The fi rst requires site (up-selling). Once done, I assisted them BerkShares Business of the Month more expense (printing, mailing) but has a in developing a direct marketing campaign, higher retention rate and you can send it to using the new site as the stimulus for contact- HE KEMBLE INN AND TABLE SIX RESTAURANT have grabbed ahold of BerkShares and they’re anyone you want. An e-newsletter is less ing their company (cross-selling). not letting go. is 13-room boutique hotel and restaurant have been all atwitter since expensive because it’s sent by email, but You’re an architect who designed an Tthey started accepting BerkShares a year ago. has a lower open rate, and if you send it to expansion for a restaurant. They expected those you don’t know, who haven’t given you to do the technical drawings; you let Located across from Trinity Church in Lenox, the Kemble Inn has been under the ownership you permission to email them, it may be them know that you could also do the in- of Scott Shortt since 2010. Shortt has been lovingly restoring the Inn, carefully balancing the architecture of the Guilded Age mansion with modern furnishings and technology. e elegant considered spam. terior design specifi cations (cross-selling). lodgings at the Inn are complemented by the seasonal fare served at Table Six Restaurant—a There are two major companies to turn to Your designer’s knowledge of furniture and perfect synergy of bed, breakfast, lunch & dinner, all under one roof. for the newsletters: MailChimp and Constant fi xtures was used to improve the ambiance Contact. Both are easy to use, but do make of the restaurant (up-selling). Table Six Restaurant, which is captained by chef Ron Reda, formerly of the Clinton White sure that you are consistent with your corpo- This information can be part of the direct House, does it all—serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, depending on the day. e rate identity, so that your newsletter maintains marketing aspect of your Customer Reten- New York Times lauded Reda’s breakfast as “the best in the Berkshires.” Saturday evenings are the same look as your website. tion Program, which will be addressed in reserved for prix xe dining, accompanied by live piano music and a roaring re. And ursday evenings in the summer and fall boast If you have developed a large email da- my next column. sunset bonres on the back lawn, with tabase of people you have had contact with, The bottom line: “Out of sight, out of local craft beer. newsletters can be a very effective method mind” does apply to your customers! The of staying in touch. They must be sent on a relationships you have with them are like a Within the last year, the Kemble Inn and regular, consistent basis, not just sporadically. garden – you have to tend to them to help Table Six Restaurant have started to use We have retail clients who do an e-newsletter sustain them or they will wither and die. If the Berkshire Region’s local currency as a weekly, others who only do monthly. It de- you don’t want your customers to take you tool to promote their own business, sup- pends on the type of business. for granted, don’t take them for granted!◆ port other local businesses, and add to their guest’s experience of the Berkshires. For stays during the week in the winter months, the inn oers a special package All Your IT Needs Hardware Software Networks Support Service Web Sites that includes a “BerkShares Shopping Spree.” Scott Laugenour, a member of the Kemble Inn team, explains, “When guests come to the Berkshires they want a unique experience. We have a lot of Kemble Inn and Table Six Restaurant 2 Kemble Street, Lenox, MA (413) 637-4113 culture and nature and museums, but we also can oer a unique shopping ex- perience by giving our guests some local money to spend.” Guests receive 50 BerkShares, a list of the BerkShares businesses within walking distance, and a BerkShares pocket directory. you watch your business.

e guests enjoy the novelty of using a dierent currency and also like the fact that the money they spend is supporting the independent business community in the Berkshires. “So many of our guests have responded favorably,” says Laugenour, “ e next step would be for more of the we’ll watch your IT. hospitality industry to be part of promoting BerkShares and saying to guests, especially in the slow winter months, ‘Hey, go shopping!’” new services In concert with the BerkShares special at the Kemble Inn, Laugenour has successfully invited new we’ve got your back: businesses to join the BerkShares community. His pitch is simple, “If you take BerkShares I’ll Backup & Disaster Recovery, E-mail Filtering, Network Monitoring, Managed Print Services patronize your business more frequently and I’ll send more customers through your doors.” He explains that BerkShares work just like U.S. cash, and that once you take them in it is best to keep them circulating by spending them at one of the other 400 participating businesses. “It’s surpris- ing to a lot of businesses because they can just do it. It’s not complicated.”

“We accept BerkShares because it’s another way to identify ourselves as a local business that cares about the community of local entrepreneurs. We’ll continue to proudly promote our local cur- rency to visitors and be part of the circulation and the success of building a strong local economy.” SINCE 1987 1 Fenn Street, Pittsfield 413.499.0607 compuworks.biz Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e 21 Pittsfield!s Pittsfield’s PATEEZ BOUTIQUE Organizations team up to highlight Clothing • Accessories • Gifts Taste Berkshires: region’s culinary tourism attributes

By John Townes is a marketing professional, it includes area Berkshire-oriented dinner for the media will The Berkshire Visitors Bureau (BVB) and chefs, farmers and other members. be held in March in New York. There will the Berkshire Farm and Table organization She described its basic mission as high- be other efforts to encourage them to visit are teaming up to promote the region’s food lighting food culture alongside other cultural the area in person. Taste Berkshires will also scene and culinary tourism, with the aid of a icons in the Berkshires and employing food have a presence at several food-related events $75,000 grant from the Massachusetts Office culture as the driver behind sustainable re- in Boston and New York. of Travel and Tourism. gional economic development. The Taste Berkshires campaign came The project, called Taste Berkshires, will Over the past several years, Berkshire about as the result of ongoing discussions conduct several activities over the next year Farm and Table has produced or promoted between the BVB and Berkshire Farm and A fun and funky shop to cultivate more publicity and to market the events that showcase regional food, includ- Table. region as a destination for food experiences. ing a series of dinners at the James Beard The opportunity for a more formalized col- for women of all ages, A particular emphasis will be placed on House in New York. These are organized laboration arose with a special supplemental for work and play! a campaign to increase media awareness by Farm and Table member Brian Alberg fund of the Massachusetts Office of Travel of the culinary and agricultural heritage (the executive chef at the Red Lion Inn) and and Tourism, which provides additional Come in for a little and attractions of the prepared by him and money for special projects over its regular retail therapy… Berkshires. “People in the Berkshires other Berkshire chefs. annual grants to regional tourism organiza- “ T h i s m e s s a g e Berkshire Farm and tions. The BVB, working with Berkshire Walk out happy, happy! complements our cur- have always been doing farm- Table also has spon- Farm and Table, applied for and received a rent campaign which to-table activities, long before sored a series of “food one-year matching grant of $75,000. showcases our natural and foraging” events, Cardinali said that in addition to the Open daily 10 AM scenic and cultural at- it became trendy. So we’re among others. specific activities associated with the grant, Monday-Saturday tributes,” said Lauri a logical destination for Cardinali noted that the affiliation also will assist with the de- For Holiday Season Sundays 12-4 Klefos, president and culinary tourism.” the role of Berkshire velopment of Berkshire Farm and Table as CEO of the BVB. “All Farm and Table com- an organization and enable it to expand its of the BVB members will be asked to par- plements that of the Berkshire Visitors overall activities. 413-499-0008 ticipate by focusing on their use of locally Bureau, which is involved with all aspects “There’s so much going on in the food 137 North Street, Suite C sourced products throughout the year.” of tourism. world in Berkshire County, and we need chan- The Shops IN Crawford Square Culinary tourism is a growing niche of the It also has a different focus than other nels to communicate that more widely,” she Free Parking on Depot & McKay St. national travel market. It is based on the appeal organizations like Berkshire Grown, which said. “This new Taste Berkshires campaign of regional food products and cuisines in res- are working to bolster the food system within is a step in that direction.”u www.pateezboutique.com taurants, special food-related events and other the region. venues. It also encompasses related activities “We are primarily working to tell the such as agro-tourism where people visit farms story of Berkshire food culture outside of Just up the road... and other food-related enterprises. the county to raise awareness of it in other This segment of tourism has become places,” said Cardinali. You’ll find a great place to eat. A great place to stay the night. A great increasingly popular as part of the national In addition to attracting visitors, this can place to hold a meeting or function of any kind. A great place to sit in interest in food in general and particularly also raise the profile and grow the market front of a roaring fire. The ‘best Sunday Brunch in the Berkshires.’ in fresh, quality regional products and local for Berkshire food products in stores and A great place to do absolutely nothing but relax if that’s what you wish. food economies. Recent surveys indicate restaurants elsewhere, she noted. that some 27 million American travelers take The new Taste Berkshires project with the • 125 Rooms • Indoor Pool, Hot Tub and Saunas • Dining Room & culinary related vacations. BVB will enable Berkshire Farm and Table Tavern • Convenient Location, Free Parking • Free Wireless Internet Some visitors plans trips to regions specifi- to expand its activities, she said. 1090 Main Street - On the Village Green cally to explore their cuisines or attend food A particular focus will be on bringing the Junction Routes 2 & US 7 events, while for others it is an additional county’s culinary features to the attention of Williamstown, incentive to visit an area. food and travel publications and other media Mass. 01267 Although Berkshire County is already over the next year. 413.458.9371 an established tourist destination based This will include developing contacts with Just up the road in Williamstown on its cultural activity and scenic beauty, food writers and bloggers to encourage more Fax: 413.458.2767 proponents of this effort hope to position culinary stories about the Berkshires. Also, a williamsinn.com the region’s culinary qualities among the attractions here. In addition to appealing to the traditional market of visitors, they point out, culinary tourism has the potential for attracting new people into the Berkshires, including younger visitors who have a particular interest in this. “It’s also an opportunity to expand tourism on a year-round basis, with activities during the slower seasons for tourism,” said Angela Cardinali, founder and business developer of Berkshire Farm and Table In addition to stimulating businesses that are directly related to tourism, this can also EARN YOUR PMBA support other aspects of regional economic development, including farms and other food producers. Cardinali pointed out that Berkshire County has a long tradition of farming, and the region has been at the forefront of the “farm to table” movement, which emphasizes the use of fresh local foods. “People in the Berkshires have always been HERE doing farm-to-table activities, long before it became trendy,” she said. “So we’re a logi- cal destination for culinary tourism. We’re unique in other ways. In many locations, farm to table often means food from a farm that is a long distance away. In Berkshire County, however, the farm is just down the road.” Despite this, she said, the Berkshire food scene does not draw a lot of attention beyond the county’s borders. “We’re not as well known for this outside of the region as we should be,” Cardinali said. “So we need to tell the story of food in the Berkshires more loudly.” Berkshire Farm and Table (www.berk- shirefarmandtable.com) is a collaboration that has been working to rectify this for a Aaron enrolled in MCLA’s Professional Masters of Business Administration program number of years. Along with Cardinali, who to develop the skills he needed to advance his career. As an accounts receivable clerk for Oral and Dental Implant Surgery in North Adams, MA, Aaron’s PMBA experience email your firm’s news provided him with the tools he needs to one day manage the practice. Begin your and announcements to: MASSACHUSETTS COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS journey here, and you can end up anywhere. MCLA.EDU/PMBA 413 662 5410 [email protected] 22 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e Ja n u a r y 2014 SOCIAL services

annual budget of $1.7 million from federal, male, widowed, and living alone on a fixed Lutz said that Meals on Wheels has been Meals on Wheels state and private sources to cover expenses, income, according to Lutz. working to close its funding gap by looking continued from page 1 which include $327,500 for food, $437,500 Among the clients for home-delivered for ways to become as efficient as possible in annual wages and delivery mileage, and meals, 25 percent of are age 60 to 74, while and by increasing the revenues it receives other operational costs. 33 percent are 75 to 84 and 42 percent are from grants and contributions. Instead, Meals on Wheels has received Lutz said it costs the program an average age 85 and older. He noted that those goals have become level funding from the federal government for of $7 to prepare and deliver each meal. Public While federal funding has been stagnant, more necessary for all social service agencies. about 15 years. However, that is equivalent to funds and various pri- Lutz noted that some “The pressures for social service programs a de facto reduction in practical terms due to vate contributions cur- “Every meal we serve is at a meals are served under will continue,” he said. “It appears that the inflation and other factors, according to John rently cover $6.32 of financial loss, so the Meals contract with the state, economy is slowly and incrementally getting Lutz, executive director of Elder Services of that, leaving a funding as part of Elder Servic- better, but there continue to be problems Berkshire County. gap of 68 cents per meal on Wheels program inher- es’ overall programs. and there are not a sufficient number of “The federal funding for Meals on Wheels that Elder Services has ently runs at a deficit,” said These, he noted, are good jobs. Meanwhile, agencies also have has remained the same for many years, but to make up from its Lutz. “We’re trying to fill based on a reimburse- to deal with government budget cuts. And, the cost of gas, food and other expenses has general funds. ment for costs, so that unless it is repealed, the sequester in the continued to increase over that time,” said This difference adds up that gap with additional has not been as much federal government will continue to have Lutz. “So the cumulative result is that the level up when you consider revenues to make Meals on of an issue. an adverse impact.” of federal funding compared to the costs of the that Meals on Wheels Wheels more self-sustaining.” Meals on Wheels service has actually been taking incremental provides more than also relies on private Promoting program’s merits steps backward over the years.” 250,000 meals annually for Berkshire contributions, including institutional grants He added that social services, like Meals The Meals on Wheels program has an County seniors, and serves an average and corporate support. on Wheels, have to work harder to convince of about 1,000 meals daily from Monday For example, Greylock Federal Credit potential donors of their merits. through Friday. Union recently committed $50,000 over five For Meals on Wheels, he continued, that “Every meal we serve is at a financial years to the Meals on Wheels program. The means informing the public on the role it loss, so the Meals on Wheels program in- Berkshire Bank Foundation – Legacy Region has for the overall community as well as the herently runs at a deficit,” said Lutz, who also recently awarded Elder Services a grant direct recipients of the meals. joined Elder Services in January. “We’re of $7,500 for the current fiscal year. Several “That requires showing how an invest- …because home is where the heart is! trying to fill up that gap with additional other local businesses and organizations also ment in your organization is going to return revenues to make Meals on Wheels more contribute to its operations. value to the community and have a lasting We Offer: self-sustaining.” In recent annual philanthropic alloca- positive impact on the quality of life,” he u Personal Care tions, Northern Berkshire United Way has said. “That includes demonstrating how u Live In Service – Up to and Increasing demand pledged $21,782 to support meal services in your services help to control the costs of Including 24 Hour Care Meals on Wheels has a commercial kitchen north county, the Williamstown Community care, education and other social programs u Medication Reminding in Lanesboro and delivers and serves meals Chest allocated $11,000 for Williamstown in a larger sense.” u Homemaking throughout the county. residents and Berkshire United Way has He pointed out that one of the goals for u Companionship It is operated by 170 people, including designated $25,213 for central and southern controlling the cost of health care is to make u Shopping and Errands 64 paid staff (both full- and part-time) and Berkshire County. it possible for people to live at home for u Door to Door Services for 106 volunteers. The program also receives donations as long as they are able, as an alternative Appointments & Procedures Meals on Wheels has been in operation from individuals, including supporters of to extended hospitalization and expensive for over three decades. During that time, the the program and from its clients. nursing home care. Call us to set up an appointment demand for its services has steadily increased Eligibility for home-delivered meals is “Meals on Wheels helps to enable people for a complimentary assessment! due to several demographic trends, includ- based on frailty and other physical factors to live independently, and remain at home ing longer life expectancies and the aging rather than income. longer than they would otherwise,” he said. of the population in the Berkshires, among The meals are free to recipients, but many “It also provides nutritious meals, which also 413-464-7524 other factors. people who receive meals also donate to the helps to maintain people’s health.” 371 South Street • PO Box 1924 The typical person who receives a visit program. “They have the opportunity to make Lutz added that Meals on Wheels also Pittsfield, MA 01201 from a Meals on Wheels driver is often fe- voluntary donations, and many give what provides other important benefits by linking www.mtviewhomecare.com they can,” said Lutz. “They often contribute the delivery of meals to the monitoring of $1 or $2 towards their meals, which helps to home-bound seniors and providing compan- supplement revenues.” ionship during the day. Lutz said in recent years the organiza- “Each visit provides not only a hot nutri- tion has been soliciting donations more tious meal, but also vital social contact, as actively. well as a health and safety wellness check,” “We’ve been very fortunate to have re- said Lutz. ceived the support for Meals on Wheels that In addition, the agency’s congregate meals 24 Hour Monitoring & Emergency Service we have, because the program has a high – for those who are able to attend them – serve • Security & Fire Alarms • Custom Designs • Intrusion Detection profile, and people can see its benefits,” he as a regular social outlet and opportunity to • Talking medical Pendants • Heat Loss Monitoring • Free Estimates said. “However, these still do not cover the participate in related activities. whole cost, and we still need to increase the These services, Lutz continued, also 326 Springside Ave., Pittsfield, MA MA Lic. #1204C • NY Lic. #12000014682 revenues it receives.” provide important assistance for spouses, 413-445-4030 • 800-370-2525 www.alarmsofberkshirecounty.com family members and other caregivers for the elderly by relieving some of the burden on them. “People can see the benefits of this in their own lives, because they know that their loved one is receiving a good hot meal and are being checked during the day,” he Dr. Teresa Menendez joins Berkshire Health Systems as said. “For people who have jobs, families Teresa Menendez, MD, FACC, FHRS and other responsibilities, that assistance Director of Electrophysiology Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology for Berkshire can be vital.” Medical Center and is accepting new patients. She is Another point the program promotes is Cardiology Professional Services of BMC partnered with Drs. Jeffrey Leppo, Kyle Cooper, Kristen their economic impact. “We buy a lot of 777 North St., Pittsfield, MA Currie, David Finck, Douglas Herr, William Levy, Henry food from local suppliers and we also are a Lyle, Lisa Massie, Andrew Potash, Mara Slawsky and source of jobs,” said Lutz. 413-395-7580 Lutz acknowledged that current present Georgianne Valli-Harwood. economic and political conditions place agen- cies into more of a competition for private contributions as well as public funding. x Board certified in Cardiac Electophysiology, Cardiovascular “In my opinion, society has always had Diseases and Internal Medicine the dilemma of balancing limited resources x Fellowship trained in Cardiac Electrophysiology at Baylor with unlimited needs,” he said. “There are College of Medicine only so many sources of funds available. That x has always been the case, but the recession Medical degree and residency at University of Texas Health brought this to light in very clear terms.” Science Center Southwestern Medical School However, Lutz, who has been in the field x Previously served as Director of Cardiac Electrophysiology of social services and elder services for two at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas and practiced in Dallas for decades, believes this situation may also bring 23 years some beneficial results and increase the level of collaboration among providers. x For an appointment with Dr. Menendez or one of her He explained that it places more of an colleagues, ask your physician for a referral or call emphasis on efficient delivery of services Cardiology Services at BMC at 413-395-7580. within the overall system and network of agencies and programs. “Service organizations have to go outside of the traditional boundaries and find new ways to cooperate in the delivery of services,” he said. “From the standpoint of a citizen and taxpayer, I think this can be a good thing, if it leads to ways to be more efficient and even provide more services to clients.”u Ja n u a r y 2014 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e 23 on the job diverse world of the daily grind

location, itinerary and other factors. Solosky Traveling Professor estimated the average price for a tour of a continued from page 1 week to 10 days at $2,000, not including airfare (which travelers book separately). While most of his trips so far have been He is also working on other Traveling to locations in Europe, Solosky said he is Professor guidebooks, including one on starting to place an emphasis on other loca- Machu Picchu and another on the Berkshires, tions, such as South America. tentatively scheduled for 2015. He noted that, in some respects, Europe Solosky explained that he began travel- has become similar to the United States. ing in earnest when he was in his forties. “South America is an alternative that is “As a college professor, I had a fair amount a true travel experience,” he said. “It’s very of time off during vacation periods, and I authentic because they have retained their love to travel,” he said. “I developed a real culture and language. Also, South America hunger to visit different places and experi- was settled by Europeans, and in some ways ence them and learn about their history, art it is now more European than Europe.” and culture.” Paris had a particular attraction for him, “My goal is for people to feel and he traveled there many times. His career like they are traveling with a as a travel writer and tour operator grew out of that. knowledgeable friend.” “Being an academic, I’m used to doing Solosky said that he plans to grow the research and I’m a naturally meticulous note business while retaining its personal scale. taker,” he explained. “I wrote down every- “My primary objective is to deliver a good thing I learned about the places I visited, and product,” he said. “It’s growing so fast that kept track of attractions and restaurants and I will probably be looking to hire more other practical information.” people soon.” Back home, Solosky did presentations Solosky is currently operating the business about his travels in continuing-education from his home in Monterey. Whether from courses and to civic groups. this location or from some future commercial “I’d hand out the notes I had taken to space, he hopes to continue to base the busi- audiences, and people told me that I should ness in the southern Berkshire region. “This turn them into a book,” he said. “So, that’s is a great place to live, and there are a number what I did. It has sold a lot of copies and has of business advantages here,” he said. been very successful.” However, he noted that the limited tele- The results were so encouraging that he Stephen Solosky, shown here with Big Ben in the background during a visit to London, notes that his communications services and lack of public decided to take early retirement from his previous career in academia allowed him ample opportunity to travel. “As a college professor, I had a transportation to major cities are drawbacks college position three years ago. (He is still fair amount of time off during vacation periods, and I love to travel,” he says. “I developed a real hunger for a business like his. If and when the time a professor emeritus at Nassau Community to visit different places and experience them and learn about their history, art and culture.” comes to expand his business, he said he College.) will have to determine whether such con- “I had a great job as a tenured professor, (413-528-2125 or www.travelingprofessor. ture of Paris for a group of African American siderations outweigh other advantages of but I was in my fifties and wanted a new chal- com) emphasizes a personal approach to women who were interested that aspect of being based here. lenge,” he said. “Fortunately, I had saved up tours, and he limits their size to 12 people the city,” he said. For now, he continues deepen his connec- my money over the years and had a pension. or less. Solosky said he keeps the prices for tours as tions here, a process enhanced by his work The book was also doing well enough that “It’s not like a typical group tour,” he said. reasonable as possible. “They’re not budget on a Traveling Professor guidebook for the I was able to retire from teaching and focus “My goal is for people to feel like they are tours, but I try to make them affordable to Berkshires. on this full time.” traveling with a knowledgeable friend.” give a chance to travel for people who might Solosky noted that he has also become With his career change, Solosky also He said he tailors details of a trip to the not go otherwise because of the cost,” he active in the local Quaker community. “One relocated to Berkshire County. interests of the group members. “When said. “This is often the first trip abroad for of the things we’re working on is running “I had been coming to the Berkshires people contact me about a trip, I’ll first people who take the tours.” tours to Bolivia, with the proceeds used to since I was a kid, and I had a second home discuss it to make sure it is what they are The specific prices vary, depending on help the poor,” he said.u here,” he said. “I wanted to live in a calmer looking for,” he said. environment than Long Island, so I decided “Before a trip, I draw up a general itiner- to move here full time.” ary,” he continued. “I also send out question- Originally Solosky had planned to focus naires and will customize it to what people Malcolm J. Chisholm Jr. on writing and publishing his guidebooks, want. People can also have a personal itiner- and giving travel lectures. ary if they want to go off on their own for part Registered Patent Attorney “I had never expected to go into the tour of the trip. For example, some people on a business, but I received a lot of requests tour to Paris also wanted to see the beaches Patent, Trademark and Copyright Law from readers to lead tours to Paris,” he said. at Normandy, so I arranged a trip for them Serving Western Mass. Since 1992 “So I did one, and it has developed into a there for a couple of days.” business.” Solosky said he also does customized or Solosky said he currently organizes about private tours for groups that have a particular P.O. Box 278, 220 Main St., Lee, MA • 413-243-0551 four or five tours a year. He personally goes interest. “I organized a tour of the Black cul- See our web site at www.mjcpatents.com on several of those, and he arranges a few that are led by others. One of the people who works with him is Greg Arend, who also has been a professor at Nassau Community Col- lege and lives in Great Barrington. His initial tours were to European sites including Paris and Italy. More recently, he led a tour to Peru. Solosky said that The Traveling Professor PittCoopBank BT&C Dec 2013_` 11/27/13 1:44 PM Page 1 24 Be r k s h i r e Tr a d e & Co m m e r c e Ja n u a r y 2014 Business is good.

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