Berkshire Penny Saver by Hersam Acorn

There’s Something In It For You!

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Berkshire

Penny Saver Volume 44 Number 79 • www.berkshirepennysaver.com

December 23, 2008

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CLASSIFIEDS 413.243.2341 or

TOLL FREE

888.307.0839

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POSTAL CUSTOMER POST OFFICE BOXHOLDER STAR or RURAL ROUTE BOXHOLDER

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PITTSFIELD, MA PERMIT NO. 122

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Auto ....................................... 18 Business Directory ................ 11 Classiﬁeds .............................. 12 Crossword Puzzle .................. 10 Help Wanted .......................... 21 Horoscope ................................ 8 Home Improvement .............. 14 Real Estate ............................. 17 Sudoku ................................... 11

CAR-RT PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID

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154 West Park Street Lee, Massachusetts 01238 413.243.2341 Fax 413.243.4662 editorial email berkshire@hersamacornma.com advertising email art@hersamacornma.com Editorial Deadline: Wednesday at noon the week before publication. Classiﬁed Deadline: Thursday at 10 a.m. Display Deadline: Wednesday at 5 p.m

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December 23, 2008

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Berkshire

Penny Saver 154 West Park Street Lee, Massachusetts 01238 413.243.2341 Fax 413.243.4662 editorial email berkshire@hersamacornma.com advertising email art@hersamacornma.com

New Programs on WBCR 97.7

“Healer’s Connect”, every Wednesday, 3-5 p.m. Join the extraordinary Judy Rosley for refreshing interviews with global/local healers who are changing the world of wellness with integrative medicine. “Hear Here”, is hosted by Scott Marks, Nick Ring, and Todd Lewis. Wed. 6:30-8:00 pm and Fri. 1-2:30pm. A weekly calendar with tracks from artists performing in the region-from the Capital District to the Pioneer Valley and the Berkshires in between. http://www.berkshireradio.org “Great American Songbook” Alternating Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. features the great American Standard Songs performed by such artists as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Jane Monheit, Steve Tyrell, Stacey Kent, Michael Buble, Diana Krall, Count Basie, Stan Kenton, etc. I discuss the artists, arrangers and composers before and after each playing. I also invite local musicians and vocalists to join me on air to talk about the songs being featured as well as their own careers.

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Renee Tassone, General Manager Linda Devlin, Circulation Manager Nancy Mosher, Ofﬁce Manager Toby Raymond, Contributing Editor Peter Czaja, Advertising Sales Debra Johnson, Advertising Sales Melissa Miller, Art Director Mary A. Garcia, Artist Jen Hathaway, Artist Chris Sobolowski, Artist ■

Editorial Deadline*: Wednesday at Noon Classiﬁed Deadline*: Thursday at 10 a.m. Display Deadline*: Wednesday at 5 p.m.

Holiday Week Art Making Workshop

Friday, December 26 through Wednesday, December 31 from 1-4 p.m. daily Come in from the cold and create your own masterpieces! This festive week of drop-in art workshops will offer families the opportunity to unwind following the busy holiday season. Each day there will be a new project to make. Free for children. Adults free with Museum admission. This festive week of drop-in art workshops will offer families the opportunity to unwind following the busy holiday season. All materials will be provided; bring your creativity. The Norman Rockwell Museum is located at 9 Glendale Road, Route 183 in Stockbridge. For information phone: 413-298-4100 or visit www.nrm.org.

Support Conservation With New License Plate

The Massachusetts Environmental Trust is accepting reservations for a new license plate that will support land protection programs like the one at Mass Audubon. Three thousand deposits are needed to make this plate a reality. The Land and Water plate has remarkable potential to fund land initiatives. Similar plates in other states have conserved tens of thousands of acres in recent years. Contact: http://www.masslandandwater.info or call 617-626-1045 for full details.

*Deadlines will change due to Holidays. See special deadline notices published before major holidays. ■

Submission Guidelines: Those wishing to submit event listings or editorial content may email berkshire@hersamacornma.com. ■

Notice: The Berkshire Penny Saver will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. The publisher reserves the sole right to edit, revise, or reject any and all advertising, with or without cause being assigned, which in the publisher’s judgement is contrary to the interests of this publication. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. ©2008, Hersam Acorn Newspapers. All contents of the Berkshire Penny Saver News are copyrighted, and any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

Martin Hersam, Chief Operating Ofﬁcer Thomas B. Nash, Publisher

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Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

Explore the Winter Landscape

Bartholomew's Cobble is a great place to explore the winter landscape, with five miles of scenic trails. Depending on conditions you may need ice grippers for boots, or you may do better on snowshoes or skis. The Cobble is located on Weatogue Road in Sheffield, about 15-20 minutes from the center of Great Barrington. Along the river you'll find a variety of winter ducks, and bald eagles. Climb Hurlburt's Hill for a great view and some good sledding. Join a guided nature walk to explore winter birds, tracks, and the big trees. During winter months (December to March), the Nature Center and Trails are open Tuesday-Saturdays 9am-4pm. Please call 413-229-8600 for more information and to register for programs. No dogs are allowed at Bartholomew's Cobble. Directions and a full calendar of events for the Berkshires can be found at http://www.thetrustees.org. Volunteers are always welcome.

2008-2009 Winter Schedule of Events

Hot Chocolate Saturdays - Saturdays December through March 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Climb Hurlburt's Hill, then slip, slide, sled, ski, or trek to the Visitor's Center for free hot drinks. Birds along the River - Saturday Jan 17 2 - 3:30 p.m. - Enjoy a walk with a naturalist to look for the colorful winter ducks and eagles often seen in the winter. Please pre-register to 413-229-8600. Wildlife Tracks and Signs - Saturday February 14 2 - 3:30 p.m. - Join a naturalist to search for the tracks of coyote, bobcat, wild turkey and the other animals who seek out the Cobble at this time of year. Please pre-register to 413-229-8600. Big Trees of the Cobble - Saturday March 7 2 - 3:30 p.m. - There are some huge trees here. Enjoy them on a 2-mile hike or snowshoe. Please preregister to 413-229-8600.

Coming this Spring

Hal Borland's Vernal Equinox (March 21); Life in the Vernal Pools (April 18); Guided Dusk Walk (April 18); Mother's Day Wildflower Walk and Tea (May 10); Wild Edibles Extravaganza (May 16), Father's Day Canoe Trip.

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December 23, 2008

Berkshire Penny Saver

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Person of the Year

The Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce has named Brian Killeen as their Person of the Year for 2008. The person of the year is that individual who has most personified the mission of the Southern Berkshire Chamber (to lead economic vitality and growth of the towns that comprise the southern Berkshire region, and to support the civic and social life and environmental resources of this region) over the course of the year. In 2008, Brian Killeen served as interim Executive Director of the Southern Berkshire Chamber and during a period of significant transition for the organization Mr. Killeen put substantial effort and energy into assuring that the Chamber stayed active in the local community and throughout the region. He worked with business and legislative leaders on such issues as broadband access. He engaged in conversations, projects and initiatives that brought people to the table in new ways. In conjunction with the Board of Directors, he organized efforts to gather business and community members for discussions on such topics as energy and economic development. At the same time, Mr. Killeen engaged sixty new members in the Southern Berkshire Chamber. As his term as interim Executive Director has concluded, Killeen will rejoin the board of directors in 2009. Nancy O’Connor, the current president of the Southern Berkshire Chamber expressed, “Brian is a great asset of the Chamber and I look forward to working with him in 2009 as a fellow board member.” Incoming president, Donna Condon, echoed Ms. O’Connor’s remarks, “Brian put his personal career on hold and worked to keep the Chamber relevant at a time when he could well have simply organized the office and kept operations smooth. He really stepped out in front and we are grateful that he will continue to serve on the board in 2009. This will help us to insure that we do not lose momentum with many of the �� efforts he initiated.” �� Brian Killeen and his wife Trish live in Southfield. ��

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New Year's Party for Kids!

Wednesday, December 31 from 11 a.m. Come to the Berkshire Museum’s New Year’s party decked out in a "green" outfit of your own design, using things like recycled and repurposed items, organic materials, and the color green. The fun begins at 11 a.m. with a family cabaret performance by storyteller / comdedian Jackson Gillman. At noon, rock in the New Year with a raucous countdown, followed by refreshments in the Crane Room. Free with "Festival of Trees" admission. Sponsored by Greylock Federal Credit Union. The Berkshire Museum is located at 39 South St., Pittsfield. Phone: (413) 443-7171 We wish all our

customers a

Happy New Year ��

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Cakewalk Bakery & Café �� will be closed from ��

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Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

Smoking Cessation Program

For those looking to kick the smoking habit once and for all, Berkshire Medical Center offers a smoking cessation program to start the New Year. The BMC program meets on consecutive Thursdays for a five-week period. The program includes the availability of nicotine replacement therapy. Pre-registration for the classes is required. The classes are for any smoker who has been trying to cut down or quit altogether and can't do it alone. The smoking cessation program at Berkshire Medical Center will be offered on Thursdays,from January 8 to February 5 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Hillcrest Campus of Berkshire Medical Center, 165 Tor Court, Pittsfield. The program is limited to 12 participants. The cost of the program is $10 per session, unless covered by the participant's insurance. To register, interested participants may call the Berkshire Health Systems Tobacco Treatment Services program at 413-499-2602 or 800459-8762, ext. 9414.

berkshirehealthcare.org

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December 23, 2008

Berkshire Penny Saver

Inauguration Day

On January 20, 2009, Inauguration Day, President Elect Barack Obama will become the 44th President of the United States – and The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington invites everyone to join together to witness this historic civic event as a free community experience. The Mahaiwe will be broadcasting the Inauguration on Tuesday, January 20th starting at 11 a.m. – free to the public, in collaboration with WMHT and WGBY Public Television. Information will be available on The Mahaiwe website, www.mahaiwe.org, and tickets should be reserved by calling the Box Office directly at 413-528-0100 or coming to 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington in person during Box Office hours (Wednesday – Saturday from 12–6 p.m.). “We are very excited that we now have the ability to broadcast such significant historic civic events for our community at the beautiful Mahaiwe,” says Beryl Jolly, Executive Director. “The Mahaiwe has been a home away from home for so many for so long, and we are thrilled that our audience members can share such momentous occasions together. We also hope to welcome schoolchildren from the area for a true communal gathering”. This Inauguration further delivers on the Mahaiwe’s vision to deliver the widest possible variety of programs to enrich the quality of life in our area on a year-round basis. The expectation is that the Mahaiwe will be filled to capacity – it is strongly suggested that the free tickets be reserved well in advance! Those interested in bringing groups (school or otherwise) please contact us for arrangements at 413-528-6415 x1.

Outdoor Classroom Series Begins

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On January 3, 2009 Berkshire South Regional Community Center is presenting the first of the Outdoor Classroom Series “To the Top of the World and Back: Summiting Mt. Everest” with Chuck Boyd at 4 p.m. in the Jaffe Auditorium. The Outdoor Classroom series is a fun mix of off-site and on-site explorations, lectures and citizen science projects are incorporated into each season over the 6 month program span to allow the chance for participants to experience the Berkshires at its best. Chuck Boyd will present a slideshow filled with pictures of his trip and tell the amazing story of his 2004 Mount Everest Summit Expedition. Chuck, a great story teller offers a multimedia presentation which allows the audience to see the wonder that is Everest, understand the strength it takes to make the climb, and see the actual equipment he used for his 2004 trek! Pre-register one week prior at Berkshire South by calling 413-5282810. The following sponsors are generously supporting this series: Arcadian Shop, Berkshire Bike and Board and Toole Insurance Berkshire South Regional Community Center is located at 15 Crissey Rd. in Great Barrington

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Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

One Walk, Countless Gifts

Memorable gifts are often found far from the shopping malls. This holiday consider offering one of humble yet abundant treasures: the enjoyment of the great outdoors. The intrepid explorer lurks in every one of us, young and old alike. So what better gift to offer than access to the miles of woodland, mountains and meadows in our Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries, part of the network of MassAudubon's 45 wildlife sanctuaries. Purchase your gift membership today and we'll send a 100% Organic Cotton Grocery Bag to your gift membership recipient! All members enjoy: Free admission to 45 wildlife sanctuaries statewide; Free full-color guide to MassAudubon Wildlife Sanctuaries; Free one-year subscriptions to Sanctuary magazine, and Connections, a statewide newsletter for our members; Member-only discounts on our exciting programs, courses, and special events; Savings on purchases at our gift shops. Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries, Massachusetts Audubon Society, 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA 01240. 413-637-0320. www.massaudubon.org.

Blue Rider Stables Holiday Bazaar

Blue Rider Stables is holding a month-long Holiday Bazaar in its Hippity Hop Shop at their 15 Farm Lane location. The Hippity Hop Shop is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, from now through Christmas. Among the items for sale are hand-crafted hobby horses, beeswax candles in pine cone shapes, wooly angel ornaments, dream catchers and hand-knit sweaters, hats and mittens. Also offered are personalized gingerbread horses (order ahead), calendars, Christmas cards, horse coloring books, and Blue Rider tee shirts, hats and bags. Copies of the illustrated childrens book, “Theo, The Blue Rider Pigeon”, are also available for sale. Proceeds of the Holiday Bazaar go towards maintenance and feeding of the horses and other animals through the winter. Several additional horses have joined the herd this past fall, increasing the hay and feed needs. Blue �� Rider Stables is a non-profit organization offering therapeutic riding lessons for physically, emotionally and mentally challenged children and adults. Blue Rider also offers regular after school and summer individual �� and group riding lessons. For information or directions, call 413-528-5299 or go to www.bluerider.org.

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December 23, 2008

Berkshire Penny Saver

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Horticulture Certiﬁcate Classes

The Berkshire Botanical Garden and Berkshire Community College are offering two courses designed for the serious home gardener and the horticultural professional. January offerings will be “Botany for Gardeners” and “Designer Tool Kit-Observation and Analysis”. The Horticulture Certificate Program is a well-established professional development program in its tenth year of operation. The Garden is located at the intersection of Routes 102 & 183, Stockbridge, MA. “Botany for Gardeners” is a level I course offered on Tuesday evenings, January 6 - 27 from 6 – 9 p.m. This is a course in plant anatomy and physiology. It covers a wide range of topics: the roles of seeds, stems, leaves, flowers and fruits and how plants grow A must for weekend gardeners as well as professional gardeners who need to brush up on this important subject. Instructor Ron Kujawski, M.S. is a garden writer, educator and researcher. Former Landscape and Nursery Specialist for University of Massachusetts Cooperative Extension, he now teaches for the horticultural industry throughout New England. “Designer Tool Kit – Observation and Analysis” is a Level II course offered on Wednesday evenings January 7 - 28 from 6 - 9 p.m. Learn the skills essential for good garden design. Each week cover a different topic: draw a map, assess drainage and slope, evaluate climatic conditions and develop effective interviewing skills. These tools provide a vocabulary for observation and analysis essential for assessing a property’s potential and problems. Learn the right questions to ask to help realize client’s wishes while avoiding common design mistakes. This tool-set is essential for professional and home gardeners who design or install gardens. Instructor Walter Cudnohufsky, M.L.A. is a long-time dedicated teacher. Having founded and for twenty years directed the nationally acclaimed Conway (Mass.) School of Landscape Design, he has honed a reasoned approach to planning design. Currently his firm is engaged in many diverse and stimulating planning/design projects throughout the region. To register call the Berkshire Community College, Office of Lifelong Learning 413-236-2122. For more information about these courses call the Berkshire Botanical Garden 413 -298 -3926 or visit the website @ www.berkshirebotanical.org.

IS183 Update

IS183 Art School’s fundraising progress are nearing their goals. Thanks to the support of students, the community and our Board of Directors they are only $23,000 away from their year end goal. They are getting closer every day but need your help to close that gap by the New Year. If you haven’t yet, please, right now, take a minute to write your tax deductible donation and send it to IS183 Art School or visit www.is183.org/. Your year-end gift will have year-long impact. Your support allows IS183 to continue to provide art-making opportunities throughout the community: $50 buys a box of clay; $125 provides a scholarship to one in-need student; $500 underwrites a session of Making Art Together – a free art-making program offered the first Saturday of every month for children and their caregivers; $1,500 covers one semester of transportation for a kids to IS183 for after-school programs; $5,000 funds one module of “Learning through the Arts”© a K - 5th grade art-making curriculum which continued on page 11

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Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

‘World of Classical Improvisation’

Pianist/Composer Jakov Jakoulov Returns to Ventfort Hall with “The World Of Classical Improvisation” - How would Bach's music sound in the style of Prokofiev? Russian pianist and composer Jakov Jakoulov will give the answer to the question when he returns to Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum with a unique program titled “The Neglected Art: The World of Classical Improvisation.” He will revive for the museum's “A Home for the Holidays” program a grand tradition from the great days of classical music when he performs at the piano and lectures on Sunday, December 28 at 6 pm. Following will be a wine and cheese reception with the performing artist. Throughout the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods, musical improvisation was a highly valued skill. This practice bears witness to the intimate ties between composer and performer, as well as between composition and improvisation. There is an almost impossible distinction between the two. This art has been completely neglected for more than a century. Jakoulov will introduce to the audience a brief historical survey of improvisation within classical music as well as folk and ethnic traditions. His program will include improvisations as a “restoration” of unfinished compositions of the great masters and improvisations based on their musical sketches. He will then improvise on well-known classical tunes “transfering” them to different musical styles. He will also play his own compositions/improvisations written in the form of an “open score”, which, in a way, makes every performance a “world premiere”. Moscow-born, Jakoulov studied at the Moscow Conservatory and the Gnessin Musical Academy. He com�� pleted the Doctor of Musical Arts degree at Boston University, studying with Theodore Antonion and Lukas Foss. The composer is the author of three ballets, five concertos, five-string quartets, music for over 20 theatrical, TV and cinema productions, and numerous symphonies, chamber and choral works. These works have been recorded and presented by leading musical organizations in America, Europe and the Near East. Jakoulov is the recipient of six awards from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. Tickets for the presentation and reception may be purchased by calling Ventfort Hall at 413-637-3206. The �� mansion is located at 104 Walker Street in Lenox. �� IS183 Update continued from page 10

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reinforces academic concepts through hands-on experience in art-making. The program is currently being developed at the Morningside Elementary School in Pittsfield. Visit www.is183.org/support/php to make an online donation! Or, please mail your check (made out to IS183) to: IS183 Art School, Box 1400, Stockbridge, MA 01262

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Berkshire Penny Saver

MEMA's Pet Safety Tips For The Winter Months Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency offers some tips to help insure your pet's safety * Do not leave your pet outdoors when temperatures drop below freezing. Dogs need outdoor exercise, but take care not to keep them outdoors for lengthy periods of time during very cold weather. Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks. Dogs and cats are safer indoors during all sorts of extreme weather. * Wind-chill is a threat to pets, even those protected by shelters. Outdoor dogs must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to both sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to retain body heat. The floor should be elevated a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The entrance of the doghouse should be turned to face away from prevailing winds, and the entrance should be covered with a flap of heavy waterproof fabric or heavy plastic. * Pets who spend a greater amount of time outdoors in the winter need more food. Maintaining warmth depletes energy. Routinely check your pet's water dish to ensure the water is fresh and not frozen. To prevent your pet's tongue from freezing to their feeding or drinking bowl, plastic, rather than metal food and water bowls are preferred. * Be leery of frozen bodies of water. Always keep your pets on a leash when walking them near suspected �� frozen bodies of water. The ice may not be sturdy enough to support �� your pet. If a pet falls through the ice, do not attempt to rescue your pet �� yourself; go for help. �� * Antifreeze and de-icing chemicals can be hazardous. �� Antifreeze has a sweet taste that can attract animals. Always store anti�� freeze out of reach and clean up spills. Antifreeze made with propylene �� glycol can actually be swallowed in small amounts and not injure pets, �� wildlife or humans. De-icing chemicals, including salt, can irritate the �� pads of your pet's feet. Wipe your pet's feet with a damp towel after com�� ing indoors, even if salt on sidewalks is not visible. �� * Warm automobile engines are dangerous for cats and small wildlife. �� Parked vehicles can attract small animals, which may crawl under the hood seeking warmth. To avoid injuring hiding animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them off before starting your engine. For additional information about keeping your pets safe, go to the State of Massachusetts Animal Response Team (SMART) website at http://www.smart-mass.org. The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is AT the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, local, voluntary and private resources during emergencies and disasters in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. MEMA provides leadership to: Village Center– 68 Main St., Lenox, MA develop plans for effective response to all hazards, disasters or threats; Experience the magic Year-round train emergency personnel to protect the public; provide information to the citizenry; and assist individuals, families, businesses and comAfter Christmas munities to mitigate against, prepare for, and respond to and recover from emergencies, both natural and man made. For additional information about MEMA and Winter Preparedness, go to http://www.mass. gov/mema.

Sale

12/26/08 to 1/4/09

Snowbabies, Annalee, Retired Dept.56, Boxed Cards, Ornaments Christmas Décor and more.

25 - 50% off

Not everything is sale priced but you will find plenty on sale.

Shop Early for Best Selection

Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

Berkshire Museum Vacation Week Activities Build a Balloon Powered Car Monday, December 29 through Friday January, 2 daily from 1-3 p.m. Enjoy Vacation Week with hands-on art at Berkshire Museum. Come build a balloon powered car, and learn all about autos of the future. For all ages. Children less than 7 years old require adult assistance. Festival of Trees admission plus materials fee.

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Stained Glass Recycled Art Tuesday, December 30 from 1-3 p.m. Make your own stained glass window using colorful recycled plastic bags. All ages, children less than 7-years-old require adult assistance.) Festival of Trees admission, plus materials fee. Required timed tickets for Vacation Week Art-making will be available at the front desk beginning at 10:00 AM on December 29th and 30th. Space is limited. First come, first served, while supplies last. The Berkshire Museum is located at 39 South St., Pittsfield. Phone: (413) 443-7171

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Social Worker Needed! Do you have a background in social work? Do you enjoy crea�ng opportuni�es for people with Developmental Disabili�es? If you answered yes to these ques�ons, we would like to talk to you! The following full-�me case management opportunity exists:

• Berkshire County - working out of the Pi�sfield office Posi�on responsible for managing a caseload helping individuals to achieve their maximum poten�al in the community. Posi�on requires: travel, undergraduate degree with 3 years experience working with people with disabili�es and their families, demonstrated ability working in a team. Salary commensurate with experience. Full benefits package. If you are interested in joining our team, please send your resumé to:

Specialized Home Care Kathleen Frome 100 North Street, Suite 322 Pi�sﬁeld, MA 01201 fromek@theassn.org

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Berkshire Penny Saver

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Making Roads More Wildlife Friendly

Local Environmental Organization Receives Grant to Survey Roads

Berkshire Environmental Action Team, or BEAT, received a $2,500 mini-grant from the TransWild Alliance, a new coalition of conservation advocacy organizations dedicated to reducing the impacts of highways on wildlife and natural resources. BEAT will use the funds to look at roads that may soon undergo major repair in the Berkshires to determine if there are ways to make those sections of road more wildlife friendly. When BEAT identifies a section of road where it would be important to improve wildlife connections, BEAT will ask Mass Highway and local Departments of Public Works to follow the Massachusetts River and Stream Crossing Guidelines that Mass Highway had a hand in creating. The Guidelines conclude: “Ultimately, our goal should be to create a transportation infrastructure that does not fragment or undermine the essential ecological infrastructure of the land and its waterways.” “Every major road repair is an opportunity to make that road more friendly to wildlife,” says Jane Winn, Executive Director of BEAT. With funding from the Turner Foundation, the TransWild Alliance hosted a mini-grant program, offering small one-time grants to assist nongovernmental conservation advocacy organizations with projects, actions or activities that seek to reduce the impacts of highways on wildlife. “Conservation advocates have struggled with impacts like habitat loss and roadkill from poorly planned highways for decades,” said Trisha White, Director of the Habitat and Highways Campaign for Defenders of Wildlife in Washington, DC. “Now, the TransWild Alliance is giving us the tools to work together and the funds to get it done.” Berkshire Environmental Action Team is a 501(c)(3), non-profit �� environmental advocacy organization dedicated to protecting the environment in the Berkshires and beyond. BEAT publishes a weekly �� e-newsletter with environmental news, calendar, and public notices for �� western Mass. For more information and to subscribe to the newsletter �� go to www.thebeatnews.org . �� For more information on the TransWild Alliance, please visit www. �� TransWildAlliance.org. ��

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Join Your Local Fresh Air Volunteer Team The Fresh Air Fund's Great Barrington area committee is currently seeking volunteer members to ensure that summer 2009 is a success for visiting New York City children. Each summer, close to 5,000 Fresh Air children, ages six-to-18, enjoy two-week vacations with volunteer host families in suburban and small town communities across 13 Northeastern states and Canada. Fresh Air committee members recruit and interview host families, check references and coordinate program activities in their communities, all of which ensure that Fresh Air children are able to have a fun-filled summer! As one committee member explains, “I enjoy being a part of my community's Fresh Air volunteer team and working closely with others who want to make summer special for New York City children. I know that I am making a real contribution with my organizational and leadership skills.” Great Barrington area volunteers need your help to create another summer of new experiences for children from New York City's lowincome communities. “I've been going to visit my host family for three years and I just can't wait to get on the bus so I can go swimming and biking!” says Tirara, an eight-year-old from Brooklyn. Volunteering to join the committee does not imply that you are signing up to host. By simply contributing time to help the local program, you can make a difference in the life of a child. For more information on how you can join the local Fresh Air volunteer team, call LaShika Walker at (800) 367-0003 ext. 8962. You can also learn more about the Friendly Town program by visiting The Fund's Web site at www. freshair.org.

Buying? Selling? Renting? Whatever your real estate needs, you’ll ﬁnd what you need in the Berkshire Penny Saver! Leasing? Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

Puppeteer to Present ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’

The popular puppeteer Carl Sprague will return to Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum in Lenox with the classic fairytale “Jack and the Beanstalk” for two Christmas-week marionette performances. The dates and times are Saturday, December 27th and Monday, December 29th at 3 p.m. Sprague, who has appeared several times at Ventfort Hall, has been a puppeteer since childhood. He has inherited a collection of 60 Czech marionettes, each about eight inches tall, that were assembled by his great-grandfather, Julius Hybler, with purchased heads and hand-made costumes. Hybler's legacy also includes two marionette theaters. Sprague, a set designer for such motion pictures as “The Royal Tenenbaums” and Scorcese's “The Age of Innocence,” is the son of Tjasa and Peter Sprague. He is also well known for theater productions including those of Shakespeare & Company. He lives in Stockbridge with his wife Susan and their son and daughter. Children must be accompanied by adults. For further information and to make reservations, please call Ventfort Hall at 413-637-3206. The historic mansion is located at 104 Walker Street in Lenox.

Please Help

With the holiday season upon us, soon we will be hustling about to find our loved ones gifts to express our gratitude, appreciation, and love. This year please consider extending that love and generosity by donating much needed items to those hit hard by our economic recession, rising fuel costs, and other extraneous factors that are affecting a great many families in our home state! There is a high demand for clothing, blankets, winter accessories, and food items. Many of our local churches and agencies are graciously accepting all donations and will see to it that they are allocated to those in need. If you can help, please do! If you need help to donate, please call Regina 413-358-1060 (to pick up donations) or The Christian Center 413-443-2828 or Salvation Army 413-448-8900 or Goodwill Industries 413-442-0061.

Have A Job To Offer? Looking for A Job? Look To Berkshire Penny Saver Employment Pages! List Your Job Opportunities Here!

toll free 888.307.0839

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December 23, 2008

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CLIFFORD OIL

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

Monday, December 22 • 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. - Community Outreach Van - Free Health Insurance Enrollment & Health Screenings. Phone 413-445-9215 - Salvation Army, 298 West Street, Pittsﬁeld • 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screenings by the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association 413-4472862 - Lanesborough Town Hall, 83 North St., Lanesborough. No registration is required. • 9:30 a.m. - Caregiver Support Group - For those who provide care to a loved one. Sponsored by the Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. At the Lee Regional VNA oﬃces, 32 Park St., Lee. For more information phone 413-243-1212. • 10 a.m - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. - Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Community Outreach Van - Free Health Insurance Enrollment & Health Screenings. Phone 413-445-9215 - Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires, Inc., 160 Howland Avenue, Adams • 11 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - St.

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John’s Episcopal Church, 59 Summer St., North Adams 12 p.m. - Free Holiday Dinner - Berkshire Food Projects Holiday Dinner. All welcome. For information, phone 413-664-7378. - First Congregational Church, North Adams 12-1 p.m. - Panic and Anxiety Program Overcoming fears, anxiety and agoraphobia; achieving control, positive self-image and constructive thinking; learn how to control panic attacks and anticipatory anxiety. For locations and more information phone Pain Relief Inc. at 732-9409658. 12-1 p.m. - Women Facing Cancer/Breast Cancer Support Group - Bring lunch, beverages provided. Meeting takes place at the Health Information Center, Main Lobby, Berkshire Medical Center, North St., Pittsﬁeld. For information or to register, phone Kathy Hart at 413-395-7965 6 p.m. - Monday Night Ballroom Dance Lessons - instructor is Cheryl Wendling - 413-443-6263 for information. - Itam Lodge #564, 93 Waubeek Rd., Pittsﬁeld

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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6-9 p.m. - Drop-in life drawing open studio - Open to all levels and abilities. Providing ongoing access to a live model working in both short and long poses, this class is a service to practicing artists and a complement to other coursework. Bring your own materials. Call 413- 298-5252 ext. 100, or visit www. is183.org for details. - IS183 Art School, Willard Hill Rd., Stockbridge 6:30 p.m. - “Every Child Counts” Holiday Benefit Concert. Call 413-997-444 for tickets or information. - The Colonial, 111 South St., Pittsfield. 6:30 p.m. - Family Preschool Story and Craft Time - North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-662-3133 or visit naplibrary.com 7 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. - Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 7 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Unitarian Universalist Church, 175 Wendell Ave., Pittsfield 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Fire House, Route 23, South Egremont 9 p.m. - Jeff King and Company performs. No cover charge applies. Call 413-298-5545 for information. - The Lion’s Den, Red Lion Inn, 30 Main St., Stockbridge

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• 9:30 a.m. - Toddler Time - For one to two-and-a-half years. - North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For

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information phone 413-662-3133 or visit naplibrary. com • 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. - Blood pressure clinic sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association. Phone: 413-243-1212. - Hyde Place, Lee • 10 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Hevreh of South Berkshire, 270 State Rd. (Route 23), Great Barrington • 10-11 a.m. - Mothers of Newborns Support Group - Free support group for mothers with newborn to six-month-old babies, looking to connect with other parents of newborns. Facilitated by Barbara Blair, RN form NARH Maternity Department. Free to Northern Berkshire residents. Meets at Family Net Playspace in the Haskins Center, North Adams. For information phone 413-664-4821. • 10 to 11:30 a.m. - Caregiver Support Group - For those who provide care to persons 60 and older, or individuals under 60 with Alzheimer’s disease, this meeting is open to all caregivers, sponsored by Elder Services of Berkshire County, 66 Wendell Ave., Pittsfield. For more information phone Bea Cowlin at 413-499-0524. • 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Toddler Story Time is for children age 18 months to 3 years. Children & their caregivers sing songs, learn finger plays & listen to a story. Following the structured program, participants are invited to stay so that the children can play together & their caregivers can visit. Contact: Debby Cuthbert 637-0197 ext. 105 - Lenox Library Association, 18 Main St., Lenox • 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood pressure clinic sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association. Phone: 413-243-1212. - Crossway Village, Lee • 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screenings by the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association 413-4472862 - Big Y, 200 West St., �� Pittsfield. No registration required. �� • 11 a.m. and 2 �� p.m. - Castle Hill Theatre Company - Out-of-the-Box �� players present “Little Red �� Riding Hood,” a 35-minute �� production of humor and ��

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Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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magic. Phone: 413-429-1501 or castlehilltheatre.org. - Mixed Company, 37 Rosseter St., Great Barrington. 1 to 2:30 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screenings by the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association 413-447-2862 - Stop and Shop, 1 Dan Fox Drive, Pittsﬁeld. No registration required. 2 p.m. - Celebrate the December Holidays Magician Debbie O’Carroll created this exciting and colorful program to captivate all with stage magic, dance and holiday lore. The audience will actively participate in Debbie’s merry celebrations of Christmas, Hanukkah, The First Day of Winter, New Year’s Eve, St. Stephen’s Day, Dewali, Las Posadas, Three King’s Day and others as they learn about the diﬀerent holidays that brighten this special month. To make this performance truly special, folk singer and musician Tom O’Carroll will accompany Debbie with holiday songs from around the world. This program is most appropriate for ages 3 – 12. It is free to the public and requires no registration. Contact: Debby Cuthbert 413-637-0197 ext 105 dcuthbert@lenoxlilb.org - Lenox Library Association, 18 Main St., Lenox 3 to 4:30 p.m. - McInerney Parent Services -

“Parents as Teachers,” education and support group for parents of young children through age five, offered by McInerney Parent Services of Berkshire Children and Families, child care provided. Meetings are held at 48 Elizabeth St., Pittsfield. For more information phone Nancy Paquin at 413-499-3556, Ext. 13. 4 to 5:30 p.m. - Multiple Sclerosis Support Group - Meetings will be at Ad-Lib Center for Independent Living, 215 North St., Pittsfield. For more information phone Brenda Brown at 413-442-7047, Ext. 16. 4-6 p.m. - 2008 Community Hanukkah Concert with David Grover and the Big Bear Band, candle lighting and refreshments. Please bring a non-glass non-perishable food item for Food Bank; reservation requested. Info: 413-445-4872, ext. 11. - Knesset Israel Hebrew School, 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield 6:30 p.m. - National Alliance on Mental Illness Support Group - Support groups for families and friends of the mentally ill meet at Fairview Hospital conference room, Great Barrington. 7 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers’ meeting is held at the same time and place. - First Baptist Church, 88 South St., Pittsfield

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7 p.m. - ALATEEN meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - South Congregational Church, 110 South St., Pittsﬁeld 7-9 p.m. - Ballroom Dancing Lesson. Info: 413-6373188 - Flavours at the Econo Lodge, Rt. 7, Lenox 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Congregational Church, Main St., Stockbridge (Next to the Town Hall)

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8:30 to 10:30 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screenings by the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association 413-4472862 - Ralph Froio Senior Center, 330 North St., Pittsﬁeld. No registration is required. 9 p.m. - Tom Carroll performs. No cover charge applies. Call 413-298-5545 for information. - The Lion’s Den, Red Lion Inn, 30 Main St., Stockbridge

Wednesday, December 24 • 10 a.m. - Family Preschool Story and Craft Time - North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-662-3133 or visit naplibrary.com • 10:30 a.m. - Preschool Story Hour and Crafts - Lee Library, preschool story hour and craft program for ages 3-5, limited to 20 participants. 100 Main St., Lee. Info: 413-243-0385. • 10:30 a.m. - Story Hour and Craft Session for Preschoolers - Clarksburg Town Library, 711 West Rd., Clarksburg. For information phone: 413-6646050. • 12:15 p.m. - MidWeek Music at Williams College Department of Music presents its weekly lunchtime recital series with student and faculty performers. Free and open to the public. All are invited to bring a lunch and listen to wonderful performances of classical, jazz and world music. - Thompson

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Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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Memorial Chapel - www.williams.edu. 1-4 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screenings by the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association 413-4472862 - Stop and Shop, 660 Merrill Rd., Pittsﬁeld. No registration is required for this event. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. - S.H.A.P.E. Club Weight Loss Support Group - Lee Council on Aging Community Room. For information phone 413-446-5925.l 5:30 p.m. - BINGO - Info: 413-443-7135 - ITAM Lodge #564, 22 Waubeek Road, Pittsﬁeld. 6:30 p.m. - BINGO - Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #310 located at 515 Curran Highway in North Adams. 413-664-9043. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. - Panic and Anxiety Program - Overcoming fears, anxiety and agoraphobia; achieving control, positive self-image and constructive thinking; learn how to control panic attacks and anticipatory anxiety. For locations and more information phone Pain Relief Inc. at 732-9409658. 7 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Lenox Community Center, Walker Street, Lenox. 7 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Parish House (upstairs) behind St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Main St., Stockbridge.

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7-9 p.m. - Gamblers’ Anonymous - Free, confidential meetings at Hillcrest Hospital, first floor conference room, Tor Court, Pittsfield. For more information phone Charlie at 413-637-2550. 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - St. Mark’s Church, Commercial St., Adams 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Grace Episcopal Church, Main St., Dalton 7:30 p.m. - Co-Dependents Anonymous - Unitarian Church, 175 Wendell Ave., Pittsfield. For more information phone 561-222-9044.

Thursday, December 25 • 10 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Hevreh of South Berkshire, 270 State Rd. (Route 23), Great Barrington • 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Special “Newcomers” meeting on the ﬁrst Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.) - United Methodist Church, Water and Main Streets, Williamstown.

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December 23, 2008

Berkshire Penny Saver

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Sherman

New Fairfield

Bridgewater

Naugatuck

Newtown

Seymour

Bethel

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Monroe Ridgefield

Redding

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Easton Weston Wilton

Stamford

Greenwich

New Canaan Norwalk

Darien

Prospect

Fairfield Westport

Woodbridge Ansonia

Derby Shelton ��

Trumbull Stratford Bridgeport

8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Christ Church, Route 7 and Maple Ave., Sheﬃeld

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9 p.m. - Christopher John performs. No cover charge applies. Call 413-298-5545 for information. - The Lion’s Den, Red Lion Inn, 30 Main St., Stockbridge

Friday, December 26 • 10 and 11 a.m. - Aquarium Adventures - Toddlers enjoy playtime and a story, then meet a diﬀerent animal each week. Sponsered by Target. Free with Museum admission. - Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsﬁeld • 10:30 a.m. - Storytime in the Galleries - Williams College Museum of Art, storytime in the galleries, with reading of contemporary and classic children’s books selected especially to connect to artwork on view, for preschoolers with guardians. Main Street, Williamstown. Info: wcma.org. • 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Castle Hill Theatre Company - Out-of-the-Box players present “Little Red Riding Hood,” a 35-minute production of humor and magic. Phone: 413-429-1501 or castlehilltheatre.org. Mixed Company, 37 Rosseter St., Great Barrington. • 1-4 p.m. - Art-making workshop with all materials provided, continues through Wednesday, Dec. 31. Reservations: 413-298-4100, ext. 220, or nrm.

Cheshire

Beacon Falls Bethany Hamden

Oxford

Danbury

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Waterbury

Middlebury Southbury

Brookfield

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

Wallingford

North Haven

New Haven

Orange West Haven

Milford

East Haven

Connecticut Towns

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Berkshire Penny Saver

December 23, 2008

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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org. - Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Glendale Rd., Stockbridge 4 p.m. - “Belle of Amherst”. eservations are encouraged due to limited performance space. For further information and to purchase tickets, call 413637-3206 - Ventfort Hall is located at 104 Walker Street in Lenox 4:30 p.m. - BINGO - with food, Speedball, Horserace and Bingo Nut 2 Tickets. Weekly progressive game prize of $1,199, plus weekly door prize. - St. Mary’s School, 115 Orchard St., Lee 7 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. - Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 7-8 p.m. - LifeRing - Network of people who support one another in living free of alcohol and other nonmedically indicated addictive drugs. There is no religious or anti-religious content in the meeting process, and LifeRing does not require participants to follow any particular steps or guidelines, other than staying clean and sober. Participation is free. All are welcome. Meets at First Congregational Church, 906 Main St., Williamstown. 7-9 p.m. - The Kathryn Anderson Trio. Jazz vocalist Kathryn Anderson and her trio present classic song standards with sparkling retro syle. Info: 413-6372700 - Fireﬂy Restaurant and Bar, 71 Church St., Lenox 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information

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Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Zion Lutheran Church, 74 First St., Pittsfield 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Clair Teague Senior Center, Route 7 South, Great Barrington 8 p.m. - Cabaret Night. - Mission Bar & Tapas, 438 North Street, Pittsfileld 8 p.m. - Recovery International - A self-help, aftercare method for persons suffering from nervous problems and fears, non-sectarian, meets in the Autumn Room at St. Mark’s Church, West Street, Pittsfield; use the Albro Street entrance. 9 p.m. - Karaoke night. Call 413-298-3530 for details. - Michael’s of Stockbridge, 5 Elm Street Stockbridge 9 p.m. - Karaoke night. Call 413-623-8711 for details. - Uncle Larry’s Tavern, Rt. 20, Becket

Saturday, December 27 • 8:15 a.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Berkshire Mall Community Room, Route 8, Lanesborough,

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Berkshire Penny Saver

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handicapped accessible 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Psychic/Trinity and Tarot Readings with Shanon - Phone 413-243-2834 for details. - Berkshire Soul and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee 11 a.m. - Story Hour - West Stockbridge Public Library, 21 State Line Rd., West Stockbridge. For more information phone 413-232-0308. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. - Castle Hill Theatre Company - Out-of-the-Box players present “Little Red Riding Hood,” a 35-minute production of humor and magic. Phone: 413-429-1501 or castlehilltheatre.org. - Lichtenstein Center for the Arts, Renne Avenue, Pittsfield 12:30 p.m. - Chow Time in the Aquarium - Watch aquarium staff feed fish, reptiles and amphibians! - Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsfield 2 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. - Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 2 p.m. - Mary Masiero will lead a sing along. This events is free and open to the public. To request a reservation or for more information, please call 413499-1992. - EPOCH at Melbourne is located at 140 Melbourne Road, in Pittsfield. 2 p.m. - Screening of “Tuning In - Spirit Channelers in America” Channeling is a practice dating back to antiquity whereby an individual, usually in a trance state, appears to make a psychic connection with a spirit being. The “channeler” is then able to act as a dimensional go-between in bringing other humans in contact with the entitiy, as well as voicing messages from the entity. The film showcases six engaging American channelers and their non-physical counterparts, Each was filmed in their home or work place. It was the first time the filmmakers had met them and none of the topics of discussion were

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brought up before the cameras rolled. The result is remarkable: across space and time it appears the entities are speaking as one, delivering a clear and profound message of empowerment for humankind. Info: 413-243-2834 - Berkshire Soul and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee 3 p.m. - Carl Sprague will return with his old-world marionette shows, featuring a rendition of the classic fairy tale “Jack and the Beanstalk”. Info: 413-6373206 or gildedage.org - Ventfort Hall, 104 Walker St., Lenox 3 p.m. - Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous Meetings for women only. - A conﬁdential recovery program for those suﬀering from a compulsive need for sex, extreme dependency on one person (or many), and/or a chronic preoccupation with romance, intrigue or fantasy. Meeting at St. George Episcopal Church, Franklin St., Lee. For other meetings in Berkshire and Franklin counties, call 1800-749-6879 or visit www.webspawner.com/users/ slaane. 4-8 p.m. - Shaker Supper - A Guided Tour occurs before supper. Guides dressed in period attire present an introduction to Shaker life as you stroll the grounds and view the Village’s premier collection of Shaker furniture and artifacts in selected buildings. Your dining experience begins with cider and cheese served by hosts in traditional Shaker dress in the spacious kitchen of the historic Brick Dwelling. Dinner is served by candle light in the Believers’ Dining Room. The menu varies, making use of fresh,

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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seasonal ingredients. A program of Shaker music completes the evening. During the 20-minute a cappella program, enjoy Shaker music in authentic surroundings. To place your reservation for any Shaker Supper this season, call 413-443-0188 or www.hancockshakervillage.org. - Hancock Shaker Village, Routes 20 & 41, Pittsﬁeld 7 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. - Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 7:30 p.m. - “Belle of Amherst”. eservations are encouraged due to limited performance space. For further information and to purchase tickets, call 413637-3206 - Ventfort Hall is located at 104 Walker Street in Lenox 9 p.m. - Karaoke night. Call 413-298-3530 for details. - Michael’s of Stockbridge, 5 Elm Street Stockbridge 9 p.m. - Static performs. Phone: 413-637-3188 Flavours at the Econo Lodge, Rt. 7, Lenox 9 p.m. - The Savoys performs. No cover charge applies. Call 413-298-5545 for information. - The Lion’s Den, Red Lion Inn, 30 Main St., Stockbridge

Sunday, December 28 • 9 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Fire House, Route 23, Monterey

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9 a.m. - Christian Education for all ages - 9 a.m. Service of Worship - 10:15 a.m. Children’s Church (nursery - age 9). Call 413-464-1287 for information. Rev. Roberta Heath, Pastor. - Berkshire Community Church, Congregational, 45 Cemetery Rd., Richmond 12-5 p.m. - Psychic/Trinity and Tarot Readings with Shanon - Phone 413-243-2834 for details. - Berkshire Soul and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. - Star Sitters - Get your hands wet in the touch tank! A Berkshire Museum educator will answer questions about New England tidal pool animals such as sea urchins, sea stars, and horseshoe crabs. - Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsﬁeld 1 p.m. - Community Meditation Join Thea Basis and other members of the community to mediate as a group to hold and expand this higher frequency of Light and Hope which has been delivered onto our planet at this time. All levels of experience welcome. Phone 413-243-2834 for details. - Berkshire Soul and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee 1-4 p.m. - Art in Action - Sunday afternoon drop-in art workshops focus on family fun and hands-on adventure! Each month will feature new projects,

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December 23, 2008

Berkshire Penny Saver

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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inspired by the art of Norman Rockwell and other changing exhibitions. All ages welcome. Free for children. Adults free with Museum admission. www. nrm.org - Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Glendale Rd., Stockbridge 2 and 4 p.m. - Castle Hill Theatre Company - Outof-the-Box players present “Little Red Riding Hood,” a 35-minute production of humor and magic. Phone: 413-429-1501 or castlehilltheatre.org. - Lichtenstein Center for the Arts, Renne Avenue, Pittsﬁeld 2 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. - Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 3 p.m. - Carl Sprague will return with his old-world marionette shows, featuring a rendition of the classic fairy tale “Jack and the Beanstalk”. Info: 413-637-3206 or gildedage.org - Ventfort Hall, 104 Walker St., Lenox

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4 p.m. - “Belle of Amherst”. eservations are encouraged due to limited performance space. For further information and to purchase tickets, call 413637-3206 - Ventfort Hall is located at 104 Walker Street in Lenox 5 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Trinity Church Annex, Walker Street, Lenox 6 p.m. - “The World of Classical Improvisation”, part of the “A Home for the Holidays” program. Tickets for the presentation and reception may be purchased by calling Ventfort Hall at 413-637-3206. - Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, 104 Walker St., Lenox 7 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. - Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 7 p.m. - Sunday Night Dance - Eagle Pass performs - cover charge applies. Call 413-443-7135 for info - ITAM Lodge #564 on Pontoosuc Lake, 22 Waubeek Road, Pittsﬁeld 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-anonberkshire. org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Congregational Church, Route 41, Richmond

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