Berkshire Penny Saver by Hersam Acorn

There’s Something In It For You!

Berkshire

Penny Saver Volume 45 Number 33 • www.berkshirepennysaver.com

February 3, 2009

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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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Auto ....................................... 24 Business Directory ................ 22 Classiﬁeds ................................ 5 Crossword Puzzle .................. 26 Help Wanted .......................... 31 Horoscope .............................. 19 Home Improvement .............. 21 Real Estate ............................. 27 Sudoku ................................... 25

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

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advertising email art@hersamacornma.com Editorial Deadline: Wednesday at noon the week before publication. Classiﬁed Deadline: Thursday at 10 a.m.

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Display Deadline: Wednesday at 5 p.m

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Join Your Local Fresh Air Volunteer Team!

The Fresh Air Fund’s Great Barrington, MA area committee is currently preparing for summer 2009 and eagerly awaiting the arrival of their New York City visitors. To ensure that this summer is special for Fresh Air children, The Fund is seeking volunteer members and host families to sign up now! Each summer, close to 5,000 New York City children, ages six to 18, enjoy two week vacations with volunteer host families in suburban and rural communities across 13 Northeastern states and Canada. Local Fresh Air Fund volunteers recruit and interview host families, arrange travel and coordinate fun activities in their communities As one host parent explains, “Hosting has inspired me to volunteer for The Fund in other capacities to help guarantee the program’s success

in our area. My family has been so grateful for the relationship we have with our Fresh Air child!” In 2009, The Fresh Air Fund celebrates its 133rd summer of bare feet, sandcastles and starry nights for children from some of New York City’s low-income communities. It only takes one conversation with a child to realize the impact of a Fresh Air experience. “We were on a walk, and I saw a wild snapping turtle! It was so cool because I don’t get to see many animals in the wild,” remembers eight-year-old Brittney of Queens. For more information on how you can join your local Fresh Air volunteer team, call Lelia Bruun at 413-528-6701, or The Fresh Air Fund at 800-367-0003. You can also learn more about the Friendly Town program by visiting The Fund’s Web site at www.freshair.org.

Junior Solar Sprint Team Leader Training offered

Area middle school teachers will gather at Reid Middle School in Pittsfield, MA to get the tools they need to inspire their students to use math, science and technology together with creativity and teamwork to learn about designing model solar vehicles. They will then lead their school teams to compete in the 2009 Berkshire Area Junior Solar Sprint (JSS) in May. The JSS is a fun and educational competition for students in grades 5-8. More than 100 students from the Berkshires and beyond participated in the JSS last year. Teachers will receive free curriculum materials, including lesson plans and a free kit to build during the workshop. Food and beverages will be provided and participants will have the chance to win a raffle for a photovoltaic panel donated by Pitsco. A Certificate of Attendance will also be provided for teachers. Enrollment is limited, and registration is required. At the JSS, vehicles are judged for

speed, craftsmanship, innovation and technical merit, and the top three winners in each category are eligible to compete in the regional JSS championship in Springfield. The JSS is sponsored by The Berkshire Gas Company, Berkshire Bank, Northeast Sustainable Energy Association, Western Massachusetts Electric Company, Energy Federation Inc., and the U.S. Department of Energy. Local Pittsfield businesses also sponsor the event. To register, or learn more about the JSS or CET‚s solar energy curriculum, contact Nancy Nylen at nancyn@cetonline.org or Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556, ext. 25 or cynthiag@cetonline.org. CET is a non-profit community organization working to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste management and environmental education in western MA. CET is funded in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and is an equal opportunity service provider.

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St.Mary’s School

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…where every child shines!

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Berkshire Penny Saver

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Ice Strength & Safety Tips

This ice strength and safety information is presented for the benefit of ice anglers and other winter sports people. The figures in the table below are for clear, blue ice on lakes and ponds. Reduce strength values 15% for clear blue, river ice. Slush or snow (white) ice is only one-half the strength of blue ice and can be very treacherous. “Honeycombed” ice, which occurs in the spring or during major winter thaws as the ice is melting, is the most dangerous ice, and best avoided unless the angler is certain there is a safe layer of solid ice beneath the honeycombed surface. Anglers should also be aware that many lakes and ponds contain spring holes and other areas of current that may create deceptively dangerous thin spots in areas that are otherwise safe. Always use caution, and don’t venture out onto unfamiliar waters without checking ice thickness frequently. How can you tell if ice is safe? 2” or less - STAY OFF! 4” - Ice fishing or other activities on foot 5” - Snowmobile or ATV 8” - 12” - Car or small pickup truck 12” - 15” - Medium truck There are no guarantees -- always consider ice potentially dangerous. Assess ice safety by using an

ice chisel to chop a hole in the ice to determine its thickness and condition. Make sure you continue to do this as you go further out onto the ice, because the thickness of the ice will not be uniform all over the pond or lake. Be aware that ice tends to be thinner on lakes and ponds where there are spring holes, inlets or outlets. Don’t venture onto ice bound rivers or streams as the currents make ice thickness unpredictable. What if you, a companion or pet falls through the ice? If a companion falls through the ice remember the phrase “Reach-Throw-Go” If you are unable to reach your friend from shore, throw him or her a rope, jumper cables, tree branch, or other object. If this does not work, go for help before you also become a victim. Get medical help for the victim immediately. When walking on or near ice, keep your pets on a leash. If a pet falls through the ice do not attempt to rescue the pet, go for help. Well meaning pet owners can too easily become victims when trying to assist their pets. For other ice safety tips and winter weather preparedness, check the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency website. www.mass.gov/masswildlife.

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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 ■

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. *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. ■

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February 3, 2009

Berkshire

Penny Saver

Berkshire Penny Saver

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. ©2009, 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

Greylock Investment Group Continues Growth Adds Brian Astorino as Investment Representative

The Greylock Investment Group, a division of Greylock Federal Credit Union, announced that it has surpassed $50 million in total assets. The group specializes in financial matters from basic financial planning to annuities, to full service investment management. Michael A. Fazio, CFP®, CTFA, Senior Vice President Greylock Investment Group said, “In today’s unpredictable economy people need help with their investments more than ever. Greylock is a well-trusted brand for financial services. There are thousands of people in the area who can benefit from financial planning but are not comfortable going to a broker or calling the shots for their own investments. That’s what we are here for. Our goal is to have the right financial service whether you are thinking about a college fund or setting your sights on retirement. We are honored to have worked with so many people in the Berkshires this past year.” The group also announced the hiring of Brian Astorino as a LPL Financial Advisor. Prior to joining Greylock, Brian served as a Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch, and had been with the firm for more than 8 years in various roles. Brian graduated Magna Cum Laude from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in 2000, earning a B.S. in Business Administration. He holds the Series 7, General Securities, and Series 66, The Uniform Combined State Law, registrations, as well as his Massachusetts insurance licenses through LPL Financial. Fazio said,“As an advisor, Brian’s objective is to develop long-term financial strategies that are unique to each client and consistent with their investment goals and risk tolerance. We are pleased to have Brian join us and look forward to expanding our services throughout Berkshire County.”

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Brian is a 2007 Graduate of the Berkshire Leadership Program through the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, and currently serves on the BLP steering committee. He also serves as a member of the Cheshire School Advisory Council. Brian is a lifelong resident of Berkshire County, and resides in Cheshire with family. About Greylock Investment Group: Greylock Investment Group is a division of Greylock Federal Credit Union and offers access to a full array of services including financial planning, retirement planning, investment management, mutual funds, annuities and portfolio management and is located at 128 South Street, Pittsfield in the Greylock Insurance Agency building and coming soon to North Berkshire County. More information is available at 413-997-8080. Securities and insurance products offered through LPL Financial and its affiliates member FINRA/SIPC. Not NCUA insured. No Credit Union guarantee. May lose value. About Greylock Federal Credit Union: Greylock Federal Credit Union was recently rated the top credit union in the United States for total value returned to Members/Owners according to Callahan & Associates, a national credit union research and consulting firm. Greylock Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, attends school, worships or regularly conducts business in Berkshire County. Greylock Federal is wholly owned by its more than 65,000 members and offers full-service branches in Pittsfield, Great Barrington, Lee, Adams, North Adams, and Williamstown. More information is available at www.greylock.org.

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February 3, 2009

From my Corner

— Susan J. Coons

it pays to advertise Ever since the remote control was invented, it’s been used to turn down the volume on commercials. However, I was thinking the other night, with this depressing economy, how grateful we should all be that there are still companies advertising their products and services on television! Think about it...without advertising, you wouldn’t be watching your favorite programs this afternoon or this evening. No news; no Law & Order; no CSI Miami; no Who Wants to be a Millionaire; no CNN; no Sponge Bob Square Pants; NO SUPERBOWL!!! I can’t imagine a world without sports on television! Especially cold winter Saturdays and Sundays, without football! No Monday Night Football! Horrible to think about! Of course, the way the mind travels, I started to think about The Berkshire Penny Saver, and our advertisers. The local businesses and services offered in our paper are the very same people who make it possible for me to write this column. They’re bringing you entertainment; information about church suppers; benefits; school events; promotions; information regarding some of the political issues; environmental information; snowshoe hikes and nature observances; book discussions and classes to improve our knowledge and intellect...I could go on and on about the information passed along to you from our community every week, and it’s all made possible by our advertisers. Please shop locally. Stop in and say hello to our advertisers, and thank them for helping to bring you The Berkshire Penny Saver. They’re hanging in through thick and thin, helping all of us to get through to the other side. February 3, 2009

berkshirehealthcare.org

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Berkshire Penny Saver

word search

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Berkshire Penny Saver

February 3, 2009

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Send check, form and picture to: Pet Showcase, c/o The Berkshire Penny Saver, 154 West Park Street, Lee, MA 01238. If you have a digital pic, email it to ads@hersamacornvt.com and be sure to include your and your pet’s names in the email. February 3, 2009

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Berkshire Penny Saver

Restorations Inc., General Contractor

Eric Taylor moves forward with business his father began

By Mary Ann White

board taking over as vice president in 1990 and officially became president in 2000. During this time Eric said they fell away from The holidays are over, and our economy is still slow. We have residential and went more to commercial projects such as condos at Oak ‘n Spruce, various stores at the Berkshire Mall (J.C. Penny, seen new businesses come into the area, some old ones go out, Old Navy), Advanced and others diversify to stay in business. Auto on North Street, I slacked a little during the Berkshire Cardiology, 610 holidays on my spotlights, North Street, Mother of Mercy Shrine Building and but plan on getting back Hampton Inn in Lenox, into them focusing not only among a few. Recent on new businesses or ones changing hands, but on ones undertakings have been who have been able to keep AzureGreen’s distribution going though these tough facility in Middlefield, the staff housing project for times and what they have had Camp Becket, the expanto do to accomplish this. sion of the Division of This week’s spotlight Transitional Assistance on takes me to South Street in Hinsdale. George Taylor startNorth Street, and BMC’s ed Restorations Inc. back in Onsite Imaging recep1970 and from 1970 to 1980 tion area. Eric said that the the business was primarily AzureGreen warehouse is expected to be completed smoke, fire, and water damage repair and reconstruction. In by June and the administrative offices in October. the 1980’s son Eric came on Eric Taylor, president of Restorations Inc. stands amongst equipment used in smoke, fire, and water damage repair and renovations.

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Berkshire Penny Saver

February 3, 2009

Restorations Inc., General Contractor Eric said they are fortunate to have work in this economy, and are now working on areas where they want to grow that being residential, particularly the smoke, fire, and water damage. John Lunt is Service Manager for this division of Restorations Inc. He was a former employee who moved on to become the building inspector for the City of Pittsfield and has now returned to help reestablish this division. Eric said that they have recently invested $50,000 into getting specialized equipment for what he said has become a pretty hightech and systematic industry. One of the pieces of equipment is used to do thermo imaging, a non-destructive way to see through walls to determine damage. He explained that they also use a web-based estimating program (Xactimate, which is a standard in the insurance industry. It is a quicker, more accurate negotiating tool with adjustors. “We don’t like to prey on people’s perils, but property damage is always going to exist. If you’re going to call someone, call us. We are local,” he said. Eric is a 1987 graduate of Wentworth Institute of Technology. He and wife, Jennifer, who is office manager at Restorations, have 4 children and live in Peru. The business employs 16 and has past locations in Lenox and Pittsfield. Eric said that they use a lot of Berkshire County sub-contractors and suppliers, “local people first.” In 2005 they moved it to their present location in Hinsdale to be closer to home and the school.

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“We have always done this (smoke, fire, and water damage), but now want to get the word out that we are back doing this on a larger scale,” Eric said. He added that they work primarily in Berkshire County and a lot of their business is repeat customers. Eric said the full-line general contracting part of the business is moving along fine, so the emphasis now will be expanding on the smoke, fire, and water damage division possibly including contents cleaning down the road. With a company motto of “A company to swear by, not at,” I can see why Restorations Inc. would want to do the best possible job that they could do. Located at 151 South Street, Hinsdale the Restorations Inc. building houses office space in the front and a huge garage area where all of their equipment is stored. They offer 24-hour emergency response, temporary shoring and emergency board ups, water extraction, structural drying and cleaning, infrared imaging, structural decontamination, remodeling, historical reproductions, engineering service, permit drawings, and electrical and mechanical damage assessments. They will also handle all mitigation, remediation and re-construction needs. To reach Eric, call 413-655-0100. Their emergency response hotline numbers are 413-446-9663 or 413-446-1423 (24/7). Email can be sent to restorations1970@aol.com and their web site is www.restorationsincberkshires.com.

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Berkshire Penny Saver

Dalton General Store

Mike and Lisa’s Home Away From Home By Mary Ann White When looking for small businesses that have survived the economy, I only had to drive down the street. Dalton General Store located on North Street (Route 9) has survived the economic shortfalls by being versatile and catering to their customers’ needs. Owner Mike Smith has spent a big part of his life in the grocery business, putting in almost 15 years with Price Chopper and then working at Dalton General when it was under the ownership of Art Wallace. Mike said prior to that Whitey and Nancy Persson owned the store for many years. In 2000, Mike made the decision to buy the store

from Wallace and hasn’t been sorry. In 2001 Lisa Weber came on board. Lisa did a desk job prior to that, and loves the change, working with her family, and the versatility of being in the store. The couple works hard daily to make customers feel like it is “their store.” “It is all about the economy, Mike said, and “we do what we can to survive.” The old general store’s rustic appearance with the tables set up for folks to stop in for coffee or lunch and a visit, is very appealing. Lisa said that many of the world’s problems have been solved there over a cup of coffee, and then “they go to work.” In walking through the

Mike Smith and Lisa Weber of Dalton General Store.

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February 3, 2009

Dalton General Store: Mike and Lisa’s Home Away From Home store, all household necessities can be found, including canned goods, cleaning products, greeting cards, snacks, dairy products, frozen foods, fresh vegetables, tobacco products, newspapers, and a deli stocked with the full line of Boar’s Head products. Rib eye and sirloin steaks can also be purchased and hamburg is fresh-ground daily. Depending on the market, other meats are available especially during holidays. The store also holds a beer and wine license and the lottery. The lottery includes Keno-ToGo. Lisa took great pride in saying that “9 out of 10 times we have what that person came in here for.” Dalton General offers a great service in that they will deliver groceries to those folks in Dalton who can’t get out. There is no charge for this service or for lunch delivery. They also offer catering, which Mike said they do a lot of. Lunch specials are posted on the board and breakfast sandwiches are available daily. Fresh donuts, bagels, and fresh coffee, including flavored are popular with the morning bunch that starts coming in around 5:30 a.m. The store has become a family venture with all of their 6 children (each has 3) being involved. Also between them, they have 4 grandchildren who are little now, but the couple have high hopes of them taking part also. Lisa’s mom and dad, who everyone knows as “Grammy and Grampy” have also taken a big part in the business. “Grampy” is the maintenance man and does the grocery deliveries and “Mom works for food,” Lisa said. Mike and Lisa agreed that it has been a good thing for her parents, with it keeping them busy and in touch with all of their friends. Mike’s mom who is known as “Noni” lives in Las Vegas, but when she is home “is in here every day,” Mike said. She is talking about coming back to live full-time, so we all know where she will be

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spending her time. Mike spoke very highly of his deli person, Dorin. “She is very dependable and inexpendable,” he said. “We know if we have to take time off the place is covered, between her and our kids.” Set up in a corner of the store is an area where Joyce Ryan of “Crafts by Ryan” has set up a display of her crafts for sale. The display adds to the old general store look. My visit with Mike and Lisa was very pleasant, and I love the old country store atmosphere. Being one of the lunch bunch I have enjoyed many good sandwiches and salads made there, so I recommend giving them a try. “We have been here for 9 years and we’re hoping for �� another 29 or as long as we both can get up to go to work,” Mike said. In regards to competition he said, “Competition �� is what it is all about, you’ve got �� to have that. It’s what keeps us �� going.” �� The store is located at 200 �� North Street, (Rte. 9), and is �� open for the winter from 5:30 �� a.m. to 8 p.m. In the summer �� till 9 p.m. To place an order, call �� 413-684-0170. Lisa will also fax �� lunch specials on request.

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Berkshire Penny Saver

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • Monday, February 2 • 9:30 a.m. - Caregiver support group, for those who provide care to a loved one, sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. Phone: 413243-1212 - Lee Regional VNA offices, 32 Park Street, Lee • 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. - Blood Pressure Screening - Learn more about controlling your blood pressure,warning signs of heart attack and stroke. Screenings conducted by registered nurses of the Berkshire VNA. Screenings do not occur on holidays. No Registration is required for this event. Information from the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association at 413447-2862. - Berkshire Athenaeum, 1 Wendell Avenue, Pittsfield • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - CHP-Healthy Communities Access Project will host free health screenings, health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. Please call Luci at 413-528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. �� Sheffield Senior Center �� in Sheffield �� • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. �� - Community Outreach ��

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Van - Free Health Insurance Enrollment & Health Screenings. Phone 413-445-9215 - Berkshire Mall, Old State Rd., Lanesboro • 11 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - St. John’s Episcopal Church, 59 Summer St., North Adams • 1 to 3 p.m. - CHP-Healthy Communities Access Project will host free health screenings, health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. Please call Luci at 413-528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. - Senior Center, Gt. Barrington • 6 p.m. - Monday Night Ballroom Dance Lessons - instructor is Cheryl Wendling - 413-4436263 for information. - Itam Lodge #564, 93 Waubeek Rd., Pittsfield • 6 to 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. - Preschool Story Time. Phone: 413662-3133 - North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-662-3133 or visit naplibrary.com • 7 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Unitarian Universalist Church, 175 Wendell Ave., Pittsfield • 7 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - St. Patricks Parish Center, 53 Southworth St., Williamstown • 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Fire House, Main Street, South Egremont Tuesday, February 3 • 9 a.m. - “Playful Parenting” classes. Pre-registration is requested for this program sponsored by

Berkshire Penny Saver

February 3, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • Berkshire Families and Children’s Services. Phone: 413-458-5369 - David and Joyce Milne Public Library, 1095 Main Street, Williamstown • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Community Outreach Van Free Health Insurance Enrollment & Health Screenings. Phone 413-445-9215 - Christian Center, 155 Linden St., Pittsfield • 9:30 a.m. - Toddler Time - For one to twoand-a-half years. Phone: 413-662-3133 - North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-662-3133 or visit naplibrary.com • 10 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Hevreh of South Berkshire, 270 State Rd. (Route 23), Great Barrington • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - CHP-Healthy Communities Access Project will host free health screenings, health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. Please call Luci at 413-528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. - Senior Center, Gt. Barrington • 10:30 a.m. - Story time. Info: 413-458-5369 - David and Joyce Milne Public Library, 1095 Main Street, Williamstown • 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. - Blood pressure and health counseling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and the Lee Board of Health. Phone: 413-243-1212 - Brown Court, Lee • 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening - Learn more about controlling your blood pressure,warning signs of heart attack and stroke. Screenings conducted by registered nurses of the Berkshire VNA. Screenings do not occur on holidays. No Registration is required for this event. Information from the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association at 413447-2862. - Big Y, 200 West St., Pittsfield. • 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. – 1st, 3rd, and 5th Tuesdays of the every month, the Southern Berkshire Toastmasters, and organization dedicated to helping us all master the art of public speaking. BCC, Main Street, Gt. Barrington, MA. For more info call 413-232-7715 • 12 to 1 p.m. - Blood pressure and health counFebruary 3, 2009

seling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and the Stockbridge Board of Health. Phone: 413-243-1212 - Heaton Court (street parking only), Stockbridge • 1 to 2:30 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening - Learn more about controlling your blood pressure,warning signs of heart attack and stroke. Screenings conducted by registered nurses of the Berkshire VNA. Screenings do not occur on holidays. No Registration is required for this event. Information from the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association at 413-447-2862. - Stop and Shop, 1 Dan Fox Drive, Pittsfield. • 2 to 5:00 p.m. - Food Pantry. The mission of this ministry is to feed the hungry. Each person who asks is given a bag of food that will last a couple of days. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413684-0521 • 2 to 5:00 p.m. - Free Clothing Store. The mission of this ministry is to clothe those in need and to offer information about Christ and his love for

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Berkshire Penny Saver

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • all. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413-684-0521 • 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. For more information phone Nancy Paquin at 413-499-3556, Ext. 13. - 48 Elizabeth St., Pittsfield. • 6 p.m. – Lee resident Iris Bass, author of What’s

Your Opera IQ? Will discuss the literature, lore, & libretto of Gaetano Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, to prepare listeners for the HD/radio broadcast of this opera from the Met. Lee Library, 100 Main St., Lee, MA. Reservation: 413-243-0385 • 6 to 7:30 p.m. - “Managing Your Money ... And More,” Lenox Library. A free program on life management skills for students and younger workers, also open to the public. Feb. 3: credit and debt, compound

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GIVE SOMETHING SWEET FOR VALENTINE’S!

Cakes, Cookies and Treats - nicely

decorated for the loved ones in your life.

Preorder or stop in on Valentine’s Day!

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56 Main Street, Lee, 413-243-2806 www.cakewalkbakery.com

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Berkshire Penny Saver

February 3, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • interest, scams. Feb. 10: property and mortgages, insurance, buying a car, and identity theft. Reservations: Ann Bloch, 637-0958. • 6 to 8 p.m. – Public speaking 101, a free twohour course to introduce you to the basics and beyond of public speaking. Claire Teague Senior Center, 909 Main Street, Gt. Barrington, MA. This is free and open to the public. Please RSVP: 413-274-6290 • 6:30 p.m. - The Lee VFW will meet at the Lee

Senior Center, 21 Crossway St., Lee, MA • 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. - Soul & Spirit Book Club - Metaphysical book club, moderated by Bettina Zumdick. Free. Phone: 413-243-2834 - Berkshire Soul and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee • 7 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - South Congregationalist Church, 110 South

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • Street, Pittsfield • 7 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers’ meeting is held at the same time and place. - First Baptist Church, 88 South St., Pittsfield • 7 to 9 p.m. - Ballroom Dancing Lesson. Info: 413-637-3188 - Flavours at the Econo Lodge, Rt. 7, Lenox • 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Congregational Church, Main St., Stockbridge (Next to the Town Hall) Wednesday, February 4 • 9 to10 a.m. - Blood pressure and health counseling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and the Lee Board of Health. Phone: 413-243-1212 - Lee Regional VNA offices, 32 Park ��

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Street, Lee • 10 a.m. - Preschool Story Time. Phone: 413662-3133 - North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-662-3133 or visit naplibrary.com • 10 a.m. - Story time. Please call to register there are openings in the Wednesday group. Info: 413743-8345 - Adams Free Library, located on Park Street at McKinley Square, Adams • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - CHP-Healthy Communities Access Project will host free health screenings, health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. Please call Luci at 413-528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. Berkshire Community College, Great Barrington • 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Community Outreach Van - Free Health Insurance Enrollment & Health Screenings. Phone 413-445-9215 - Dalton CRA, 400 Main St., Dalton • 10:30 a.m. - Story time. Info: 413-458-5369 - David and Joyce Milne Public Library, 1095 Main Street, Williamstown • 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. - Blood pressure and health counseling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and the Otis Board of Health. Phone: 413-243-1212 - Otis Senior Center • 1 to 3 p.m. - CHP-Healthy Communities Access Project will host free health screenings, health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. Please call Luci at 413-528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. - CHPDental Center, Great Barrington • 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 to 6:15 p.m. - Yoga for Your Everyday Life. Call 413-269-0075 or visit the web site www. HealthyBoomerBody.com to register or for more information - Healthy Boomer Body Center in Otis • 5:30 to 7 p.m. - VNA & Hospice of Northern Berkshire offers bereavement support group - Info: 413-664-4536 - VNA & Hospice of Northern Berkshire, Inc., 535 Curran Memorial Highway, North Adams

Berkshire Penny Saver

February 3, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

February 3, 2009

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• 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (beginners) and 7 to 8 p.m. (intermediate) - Tai Chi classes - Banish the winter blues & refocus your energy. Jim Pullaro brings his very popular tai chi classes back for both beginning & more experienced students. Registration requested. For more information: 413-466-0534 or jimpullaro@msn. com. - Lichtenstein Center for the Arts, 28 Renne Ave., Pittsfield • 6 to 8 p.m. - Caregiver support group, for those who provide care to a loved one, co-sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. (ESBC). Information: 413-499-0524 - ESBC Offices, 66 Wendell Avenue, 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 p.m. - BINGO - Non-Smoking Refreshments Available - Progressive Jackpots. Info: 413-443-7135 - ITAM Lodge #564, 22 Waubeek Road, Pittsfield. • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. - Wednesday Evening TuneUps - Pilates for all skill levels. Call 413-269-0075 or visit the Web site www.HealthyBoomerBody.com to register or for more information - Healthy Boomer Body Center in Otis • 6:45 p.m. - Hinsdale Lions Club Bingo Admission $1. Come early - Dinner is available at reasonable prices: hamburgers, hot dogs, cold sandwiches, hot dishes, desserts, cold and hot beverages. Monthly Door Prizes - Charity Game Tickets. Phone 413-6552973 for details. - Hinsdale Community Center Maple Street, Route 143, Hinsdale • 7 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Parish House (upstairs) behind St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Main St., Stockbridge. • 7 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Lenox Community Center, Walker Street, Lenox. • 7 to 9 p.m. - Gamblers’ Anonymous. Free, confidential meetings. For more information phone Charlie at 413-637-2550. - Hillcrest Hospital, first floor

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Berkshire Penny Saver

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • conference room, Tor Court, Pittsfield • 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.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.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Grace Episcopal Church, Main St., Dalton • 7:30 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Fairview Hospital, 29 Lewis Ave., Great Barrington • 9 p.m. - Dan Hamilton performs. No cover charge applies. Call 413-298-5545 for information. - The Lion’s Den, Red Lion Inn, 30 Main St., Stockbridge Thursday, February 5

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• 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Community Outreach Van Free Health Insurance Enrollment & Health Screenings. Phone 413-445-9215 - Wal-Mart, 830 Curran Highway, North Adams • 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Free Clothing Store. The mission of this ministry is to clothe those in need and to offer information about Christ and his love for all. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413-684-0521 • 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Food Pantry.

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The mission of this ministry is to feed the hungry. Each person who asks is given a bag of food that will last a couple of days. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413684-0521 • 5:30 p.m – “Green Living” Workshops, The Berkshire Environmental Resource Center at MA College of Liberal Arts, will kick off a series of 12 “Green Living” seminars and workshops on “Pruning Fruit Trees”, in Murdock hall conference room 218. The public is invited to attend this free series, “Good Food: Sustainable Agriculture for the 21st Century.” For more information, go to www.mcla.edu or contact Elena Traister at 413-662-5303 • 7 p.m. – Eye to Ear Lecture, The owner and creator of Ballets Metropolis, Darrell Puchiarello will talk about his career as a soloist and lead dancer with the Metropolitan Opera and his choreography for ballet companies around the world. FREE! In partnership with the Pittsfield Local Cultural Council • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood pressure and health counseling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. Phone: 413-243-1212 - Stop & Shop on Merrill Road in Pittsfield • 10:30 a.m. - Preschool Story Craft is for children 3 to 5 years of age. The program features stories, songs & follow-along activities followed by a craft ��

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Berkshire Penny Saver

CONTEST CORNER! Beginning with the February 3rd issue of the Berkshire Penny Saver, watch for our NEW MONTHLY CONTESTS! Enter for a chance to win Gift Cards for groceries, gas, dining out and more! Hint: The Faces of Time

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Guaranteed Pest Elimination Since 1890

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • related to stories. Contact: Debby Cuthbert. Phone: 413-637-0197 ext. 105 - Lenox Library Association, 18 Main St., Lenox • 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Young Family Breastfeeding Group - Berkshire Nursing Families is starting a group for young families (parents 23 years and under). Free Pizza Lunch. - Haskins Community Center, North Adams • 12 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - 9 Locust

Hill Rd., Great Barrington • 2 to 4 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screening - Learn more about controlling your blood pressure,warning signs of heart attack and stroke. Screenings conducted by registered nurses of the Berkshire VNA. Screenings do not occur on holidays.No Registration is required for this event. Information from the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association at 413-447-2862. - Hillcrest Campus,

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Berkshire Penny Saver

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Celebrating 5 Years in Business! Berkshire Penny Saver

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February 3, 2009

Berkshire Penny Saver

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • 165 Tor Court, Pittsfield. • 2 to 6 p.m. - Berkshire Serve, formerly Berkshire SHARE is taking orders on Thursdays, Feb 5 and 12. Food pick-up will be Feb 28. This month’s $26 package of food will contain the following: Oriental Pork Strips, Stew Beef, Vegetable Chicken Pot Pie, Precooked breaded Tilapia, Potatoes, Onions, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Bananas, Peaches, Tuna Cups. Also offered are Pork Roast, Chicken Tender Bites and Sirloin Steak Tips. To order any of the above

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packages call 663-9277 Thursdays between 2-6 or stop by the office at St John’s Church in N Adams through the red door on the parking lot side of the building. The office is only staffed on Thursdays 26. Orders can also be placed at www.servenewengland. org. Also in Dalton at 684-2000, in Bennington at 442-3466. Berkshire Serve is a chapter of Serve New England a large food co-op. This program is open to all people regardless of income. • 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www. al-anonberkshire.org. Newcomers’ meeting: First Thursday of the month at 7 p.m - United Methodist Church, Water & Main Streets, Williamstown • 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-

Berkshire Penny Saver

February 3, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • anonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Christ Church, Route 7 and Maple Avenue, Sheffield Friday, February 6, 2009 – Sunday, February 8, 2009 • 2009 Bay State Winter Games – Figure Skating, Williams College Rink, Williamstown, MA. Masters Ice Hockey, Vietnam Vets. Mem. Skate Arena, N. Adams, MA. Visit www.BayStateGames.org or call 781-9326555 Friday, February 6 •

9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Free Clothing Store.

The mission of this ministry is to clothe those in need and to offer information about Christ and his love for all. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413-684-0521 • 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Food Pantry. The mission of this ministry is to feed the hungry. Each person who asks is given a bag of food that will last a couple of days. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413684-0521 • 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 • 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. – The Tri-Town Health Department and City of Pittsfield Health Department

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Your Name: Address: Pet name(s): Pet info:

Send check, form and picture to: Pet Showcase, c/o The Pennysaver, 109 South Street, Bennington VT 05201. If you have a digital pic, email it to ads@hersamacornvt.com and be sure to include your and your pet’s names in the email. February 3, 2009

Berkshire Penny Saver

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • in collaboration with Berkshire Health Systems Workplace and Community Health and Wellness Program are sponsoring FREE and confidential Health Screenings and Health Insurance Enrollment programs to the public. Join us February 6, 2009 from 12:30 PM4:00 PM at Pittsfield City Hall. A community health nurse will be on site to check your cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure. Health Screenings take approximately 30 minutes and appointments are recommended but not required. Please call Bruce Ryan 413-445-9215 to schedule an appointment. • 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 • 6:30 p.m. – BINGO EVERY FRIDAY ST. MARY’S SCHOOL, 115 ORCHARD STREET, LEE. 413-243-1079 DOORS OPEN AT 4:30- GAMES BEGIN AT 6:30 • 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour

Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Claire Teague Senior Center, 909 Main Street (Rt. 7 South), Great Barrington Saturday, February 7 • 8:15 a.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Berkshire Mall Community Rm Route 8, Lanesborough • 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Free Clothing Store. The mission of this ministry is to clothe those in need and to offer information about Christ and his love for all. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413-684-0521 • 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Food Pantry. The mission of this ministry is to feed the hungry. Each person who asks is given a bag of food that will last a couple of days. 755 Main Street in Dalton, MA 413684-0521 • 9 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-

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Berkshire Penny Saver

February 3, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • anonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Fire House, Route 23, Monterey • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Free “MultiMedia” Art Making Workshop for Kids in Pittsfield. IS183 Art School is offering a Free-Drop In “Art-Making Workshop” session at the Lichtenstein Center, 28 Renne Avenue in Pittsfield. Children and their caregivers are invited to join faculty artist Ben Evans in a fun filled morning creating multimedia Valentines. No registration is necessary in order to participate. Children of all ages are invited and must be accompanied by a caregiver. This program was made possible through a generous donation from the Greylock Federal Credit Union. • 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Bird Banding Demonstration, Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Instructor: Christyna Laubach and volunteers, Sanctuary volunteer, Science Teacher, Lenox Memorial

Middle and High School. Program Audience: All Program Code: 69-PV09WI2 Here’s a chance to observe handheld birds. Join us as we demonstrate the proper use of mist nets and band the birds that are captured. You will learn what valuable information can be obtained by this fieldwork. Participants will help gather data and release the birds unharmed. Free with regular sanctuary admission. Participants are free to come and go during the program. Instructions and Directions: Free for members. Call ahead if weather is inclement. Not recommended for children under 3. Registration is required, unless otherwise noted. Berkshire Wildlife Sanctuaries, Massachusetts Audubon Society, 472 West Mountain Road Lenox, MA 01240. 413-637-0320. www.massaudubon.org.

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Berkshire Penny Saver

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • • 11:30 a.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Fairview Hospital, 29 Lewis Ave., Great Barrington • 12:30 p.m. - Chow Time in the Aquarium - Watch aquarium staff feed fish, reptiles and amphibians! - Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsfield • 5 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Trinity Church Annex, Walker Street, Lenox • 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.al-

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anonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Congregational Church, Route 41, Richmond • 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. - Zion Lutheran Church, 74 First Street, Pittsfield • 8 p.m. - The Berkshire County Chapter of The National Alliance on Mental Illness will participate in a panel discussion following the Saturday night performance of “Living With It” at The Barrington Stage Company’s Stage 2, 36 Linden Street, Pittsfield, MA. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased by calling the box office at (413) 236-8888 or www.barringtonstageco.org. Sunday, February 8 • 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.

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Berkshire Penny Saver

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • Rev. Roberta Heath, Pastor. - Berkshire Community Church, Congregational, 45 Cemetery Rd., Richmond • 12:30 p.m – Not Your Average Dog Show, dogs of any breed or mix compete and have their chance to win in unusual categories. Prizes, vendors, food, awards, and a raffle are included. Snow date: Sunday, Feb. 15. Paterson Field House, Berkshire Community College. • 1 to 2 p.m. – Stockbridge Grange will serve a public Roast Pork Dinner, family style in the Hall on Church Street, Stockbridge, MA. Adults $10.00, Children under 12, $5.00. Take out available: call 413298-3185. • 2 to 4 p.m. - Bill Koch Youth Ski League, for parents and children ages 5-13 to enjoy the outdoors, community, each other, and introduce them to the world of cross country ski racing. Info: 413-684-0148. - Notchview, Route 9, Windsor.

• 2 p.m. – Valentine Penny Social, Pilgrim Memorial Church, 249 Wahconah St., Pittsfield, MA. Doors open at 1:00 p.m. Please join us! Any questions contact: Ellen at 413-442-9567. • 3 p.m. –Randall Hodgkinson Bösendorfer Concert. Chapin Hall, Williams College Dept. of Music. Mr. Hodgkinson performs the 2 piano and 4 hand repertoire with his wife, Leslie Amper and the piano trio repertoire with the Gramercy Trio, and is an artist member of the Boston Chamber Music Society. Faculty appointments include New England Conservatory of Music and the Longy School in Cambridge and Boston University and Wellesley College. • 4 p.m. – The Church of the Good Shepard, Pleasant Street, South Lee, MA will hold their service at 4:00 p.m. instead of 9:00 a.m. • 7 p.m. - Sunday Night Dance - live band - cover charge applies. Call 413-443-7135 for info - ITAM Lodge #564 on Pontoosuc Lake, 22 Waubeek Road, Pittsfield

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