Yankee Shopper by Hersam Acorn

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December 15, 2008

Inside this week’s Issue

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Horoscope ........................ Page 20

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Home Improvement ........ Page 11

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Sudoku .............................. Page 21 Crossword......................... Page 19

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Dining Giveaway ............. Page 15

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Business & Services ......... Page 23 Classiﬁeds ........................... Page 2 Real Estate ........................ Page 31 Auto ................................... Page 25 Help Wanted..................... Page 32

PERMIT NO. 122 PITTSFIELD, MA

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Dining / Entertainment .. Page 13

PRSRT - STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID

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Vol. 31 No. 68

20 Cleveland Road Dalton, Massachusetts 01226 413.684.1373 Classiﬁed 888.307.0839 Fax 413.684.0607 editorial email yankee@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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20 Cleveland Road Dalton, Massachusetts 01226 413.684.1373 Fax 413.684.0607 Classiﬁed 888.307.0839 editorial email yankee@hersamacornma.com advertising email art@hersamacornma.com ■

Renee Tassone, General Manager Linda Devlin, Circulation Manager Toby Raymond, Contributing Editor Carrie Devlin, Advertising Sales Melissa Miller, Art Director Mary A. Garcia, Artist Jen Hathaway, Artist Chris Sobolowski, Artist

Annual Christmas House Decorating Contest

UNO will be holding their annual Christmas House Decorating contest. Judging will be done on Thursday, December 18, and prizes will be awarded to the winners. The “After the Holidays” party for UNO children up to age 10 will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2009, at 1 p.m. at the Salvation Army on River St. in North Adams. For more information, please call Shirley at 413-663-5516.

‘A Christmas Carol’

On Saturday, December 20 at 7 p.m. the Crowne Plaza in Pittsfield presents a special performance of “A Christmas Carol”. This premier production will be adapted and produced by Frank and Kristen Marquette, owners of Murder Café in Pittsfield. They have cast veteran actors from throughout Berkshire County. Frank will appear in the production and the period costumes will be designed by Kristen. The performance will be interactive from the first scene. As the guests arrive they will be greeted by Tiny Tim, the Cratchit family and Nephew Fred. Carolers will sing traditional Christmas songs throughout the room. Scrooge will appear and during dinner he will be haunted by the three ghosts of Christmas. During the entrée guests will dine with characters from the production. The special menu will include salad, a choice of a meat, fish or vegetarian entrée, and dessert. Beverages will be served during dinner. For information or individual or group tickets for the Crowne Plaza's Christmas Carol call 413-553-2184 by December 16. Seating is reserved and limited.

Parent Child Home Program

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

Calling all parents, grandparents, foster parents, or guardians: The Parent Child Home Program has begun home visiting for the fall, but there is still time to enroll your toddler or preschooler. This adventure through literacy with free books and toys, that you keep, is a wonderful way to play and learn with your child. A trained home visitor will come to your home for one hour a week. If you have a child between 18 months and 4 years, please give us a call for enrollment. We can schedule visits from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for your convenience. For more information, please call Program Coordinators Gretchen Wells or Jennifer Gauthier at Child Care of the Berkshires, 413-663-6593.

*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 yankee@hersamacornma.com. ■

Notice: The Yankee Shopper 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 Yankee Shopper are copyrighted, and any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

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Family BILLIARDS ��

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

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December 15, 2008

Main Street Stage's Holiday Production

On December 19 and 20, Main Street Stage's holiday production, “The Red (and Green) Room”, will showcase original work by local writers, actors, and dancers at 57 Main Street, North Adams. “The Red (and Green) Room” will be broken into two acts: a variety show and an original one act adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” titled “A Critic's Carol”. Light refreshments will be served at intermission and good holiday feelings and humor will be available throughout the show. Doors open at 7:30 for life drawing and the show starts at 8 p.m. The show will feature reflections by local writers, including Gail Burns, Seth Brown and Johnnie Carrier; a Christmas-themed dance, choreographed by Sarah Rae Brown; skits written and performed by Main Street Stage company members, including “A Caroler's Lament” and “Dickens' American Idol.” The original one act, written by company member Kelli Newby and directed by Wendy Walraven, wonders what would happen if a small theatre company cast the local critic as Scrooge in their production of A Christmas Carol. The show follows the story of the Dickens classic and all resemblances to local critics are entirely coincidental. “The Red (and Green) Room” is a full-length version of the Mains Street Stage's popular cabaret series, the Redroom, which was rated at 5 out of 5 by the Berkshire Eagle's “Region After Dark.” It is an artist's playground where genre lines don't matter. One audience member called it something you'd see in someone's basement in Greenwich Village during the 1960's. For more information, go to mainstreetstage.org or call Kelli at 413-664-7745.

Berkshire Food Project Offers Free Holiday Dinner

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The Berkshire Food Project's Holiday Dinner will be held on Monday, December 22. This is a free noon time meal held in the dining hall of the First Congregational Church, North Adams. All are welcome. For more information, please call 413-664-7378.

Rose Day in Berkshire County

Thursday December 20 is Rose Day in Berkshire County. Order a "candy cane" rose bouquet of 6 white and 6 red medium-stemmed roses from the Brien Center. They can be picked up on the 20th from 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. at 25 Marshall St. in North Adams. To order yours, call the Brien Center's Development Office at 413-629-1260.

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NAMI-BC Offers Ways To Give Thanks

Could you use help caring for your feet?

The holiday season can be a time to acknowledge all that is positive in our lives, and to focus on helping others who may not be so fortunate. The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Berkshire County invites its members and the community to participate in our annual holiday collection and distribution of gift bags to the patients in the hospital psychiatric wards at Berkshire Medical Center and at North Adams Regional Hospital. NAMI-BC will be collecting clothing donations, filling holiday bags and encouraging new ideas for items that would be appreciated by both patients and staff. We invite you to drop off new or used clothing in good condition; the larger sizes are most needed- from coats and active wear to under-garments. Other items that could be well used are magazine or newspaper subscriptions, movies, books, writing pads and small things that will fit into holiday gifts bags such as note paper, pens, socks, playing cards, games, hats, gloves, soaps, nail polish, candy and pocket calendars. If anyone is interested in volunteering to pack these gift bags or to transport everything to the hospitals, please let the NAMI-BC staff know by calling Bonnie Brace or Katie Lombardi at 413-443-1666. As always, monetary donations are gratefully accepted and checks can be made out to NAMI-BC. All items can be dropped off at the NAMIBC office during their regular hours which are Monday-Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., Brien Center, 4th Floor, 133 East St., Pittsfield, MA 01201.

-HOME VISITS -FOOT EXAMINATION & HYGIENE -NAIL CARE & NAIL TRIMMING -SKIN, CORN, & CALLOUS CARE -FOOT MASSAGE -FOOT & TOE EXERCISES -PATIENT EDUCATION -PHYSICAL, GAIT, & BALANCE ASSESSMENT gift certificates available for the holidays

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December 15, 2008

Linda Tyer to beAppointed New City Clerk

Mayor James M. Ruberto announced today that Ward 3 City Councilor Linda Tyer, resigned from her position on the City Council to become the 20th Clerk for the City of Pittsfield. Tyer will wait the state mandated 30 days until she will officially be appointed during a special meeting on January 9, 2009. “Linda has been a great City Councilor over the past five years, and I look forward to working with her on a daily basis as the Clerk,” said Mayor Ruberto. Tyer received her degree from Bay Path College in Longmeadow, MA and has lived in the Berkshires since 1988. James, her husband, and Linda purchased their first house together on Ventura Ave. in Pittsfield seven years ago and have been there since. She has worked for the Lenox public school system for 17 years, 12 have been as the Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools. “I am honored to have Mayor Ruberto's nomination,” remarked Linda Tyer. “I am looking forward to using my administrative skills and everything I have learned while on the city council and serving Pittsfield in a new and challenging position. Jody has served the citizens of Pittsfield with distinction. Many people have great respect and admiration for her service and I will strive to carry on the tradition.” On Friday, December 12 at 12 noon there will be a special City Council meeting in the Clerks Officer to approve warrants for a special election for the Ward 3 City Council seat. Nomination papers will be available in the Clerk's Office immediately after the meeting. Each perspective Ward 3 candidate will need to collect fifty (50) signatures from registered voters in Ward 3 by January 6. If a preliminary election is needed it will be held on February 24 with the general election to be held on March 31. The two polling places will be at All Souls Church on Pembroke Ave. and Providence Court on East St. President of Gerald Lee said, “I think Linda was an excellent choice especially for two reasons: first, she is definitely a people person and second is that she is very detail oriented as shown at both at the City Council and the Community Development Board.” ��

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Free Winter Coats

The Lenox Community Center and Lenox Memorial Middle and High School are distributing coats to those who are in need. All sizes are available. Stop by the Community Center lobby and help yourself. Drop off of coats to be distributed is at the Lenox High School lobby for those wishing to donate a coat.

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December 15, 2008

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Blue Christmas Service

The community is invited to a Blue Christmas Worship Service at St. John's Episcopal Church on Tuesday, December 16 at 7 p.m. A Blue Christmas Service is offered to those who find the holiday season difficult. The joy of the season is proclaimed on radio and television, in shopping malls and churches, but many people are reminded of what they have lost-or never had. For some, Christmas is a time that has always been difficult. For others, it may be the first Christmas without a beloved family member. It may be a time of grief and stress from a broken relationship, the weariness of ill health, the insecurity of unemployment, or the struggle with an addiction. It is important to remember at this season that God does not begrudge sadness. The Holy Scriptures and church history have shown that God does not demand smiles from us-not even at Christmas. God, through Christ, seeks to bind up our wounds and heal broken hearts. If you, or someone you know, yearn for understanding and peace in the midst of celebrating and spending, St. John's Blue Christmas Service offers God's word to give light to your darkness. Everyone, regardless of church background - or lack of it - is welcome to attend St. John's Blue Christmas Service. A brief time for light refreshments and fellowship will follow the service. St. John's is wheelchair accessible, and offers plenty of free, convenient parking adjacent to the church. For more information please call St. John's Church office at 413-664-9656.

Free Chamber Orchestra Performance

Join Berkshire Music School for an evening with strings attached as students present a free chamber orchestra concert Tuesday, December 16 at 5:30pm. Under the direction of Norman Thibodeau, students will bid the fall semester adieu. The program includes “Little Baroque Suite” by Kirnberger, and “Concerto in D Major” by Vivaldi. The event takes place at the school's Edgar B. Taft Recital Hall, 30 Wendell Avenue, Pittsfield. Free parking. For information call 413-442-1411. The BMS Chamber Orchestra is supported in part by the Gia Cox Caird Scholarship Fund. Norman Thibodeau holds MMus degrees in Flute and in History of Music from Peabody Conservatory. He recently served as assistant principal flute of the Orquest Sinfónica del Estado de México. He plays flute with the Albany-based St. Cecilia Orchestra, and has recorded the music of Anthony Holland for Albany Records. He directed the flute ensemble of the Empire State Youth Orchestra. He also composes, and is published by ALRY Publications. Norman first joined the BMS faculty in 1990.

English For Speakers Of Other Languages Free classes in English language skills for speakers of other languages are available through the Northern Berkshire Adult Basic Education Program at MCLA. Classes are designed for beginners through advanced learners, and are held in two locations; North Adams at Freel Library at MCLA, and in Williamstown at the Milne Public Library. If you would like to enroll, get more information or know someone who could benefit from the program, please call 413-662-5314.

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December 15, 2008

Berkshire SHARE Announces December Delivery Day

Berkshire SHARE's next delivery day will be on Saturday, December 20, from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. In addition to picking up your meal package, join us in making fun cards using rubber stamps and markers. Holiday cards, thank you notes, note cards - you name it, you can make it! There are currently several different offers: you may purchase the December Family Meal for $26, or choose a special Holiday Meal Package. Berkshire SHARE/ Serve New England can help stretch your grocery money. The $26 package contains lots of healthy food choices with delicious meat options, fruits and vegetables, and a surprise product. The Berkshire SHARE Co-op is open on Thursdays 2-6 p.m. through the red door on the parking lot side of St. John's Church in North Adams. Cash, checks, and EBT cards are accepted. This offer is open to all community members, regardless of income. For information, please call 413-664-7400.

Holiday Beneﬁt Concert

The Every Child Counts Foundation 2008 Holiday Benefit Concert will be held on Monday, December 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield. One hundred percent of profits go to children in poverty throughout the world, visit the Every Child Counts website for more info on this non-profit organization (www.theeverychildcountsfoundation.org). Performers include Michael Joseph, Justin Hillman, David Grover, Over The Mountain Josh Reis, Erin McGinley, Caitlin Harrigan, Johnny Segalla, Alex Yarmosky, Caitlin Teeley, Rob Kelly, Jay Bradley, Jeff Stevens, Rob Putnam, Wanda Houston, and a reading by Michael Houlihan. Call ASAP and get your tickets - 413-997-4444 or visit www.thecolonialtheatre.org.

'Voices Will Be Heard' at Berkshire Music School

Students will be accompanied by Harriet Rothstein and Jean Stackhouse. The event takes place upstairs at the school's Edgar B. Taft Recital Hall, 30 Wendell Avenue, Pittsfield. Free parking. For information call 413-442-1411. Participating students are Kathryn Burgner, Liz Butler, Avery Forget, Kim Gritman, Sandra Hays, Shea Kelly, Elaina Pullana, Katie Russett, Caroline Sinico, and Natalie Vanino. Jack Brown is Artistic Director of Berkshire Lyric Theatre. An active concert singer and conductor, he serves on the faculties of Simons Rock, The Hotchkiss School, and Berkshire Music School. He has been vocal instructor at BMS since 2006. Harriet Rothstein earned a MM with Distinction and completed Doctoral studies at Temple University. Her active career as a collaborative pianist also includes more than 25 years of teaching. She joined BMS in 2005. Jean Stackhouse served as director of education and piano department chair at the New England Conservatory. She was part of the N.E. Conservatory Preparatory, and has taught piano at BMS since 2005.

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Ongoing Drumming Classes

Try your hand at Afro-Caribbean and West African drumming with Gaia Roots co-founder and educator Aimee Gelinas. Classes are ongoing on Tuesday evenings from 7-8 p.m. at the Lichenstein Center in Pittsfield and will continue weekly. Participants will learn hand and instrument technique, traditional drum and percussion rhythms and breaks, accompanying songs and challenging drum patterns and exercises. Traditional instruments such as the Conga, Djembe, Djun Djun, Clave, Bell and Shekere provided and included for use in the class price. Registration requested-please email aimee@gaiaroots.com. Aimee Gelinas is a dynamic, inclusive and inspiring teacher that will help you access your own rhythmic voice. She has been instructing drumming and performing for over 15 years, has studied with masters inCuba (Havanah and Matanzas), West Africa (Senegal and Gambia) and the U.S. Aimee is co-founder of Gaia Roots, an all women drum, dance and vocal performance ensemble located in Western MA. She also teaches drum classes for youth with Berkshire Pulse in Great Barrington on Tuesday afternoons-go to www.berkshirepulse.org for more info. For more information about her drum classes & drum curriculum go to www.tamarackhollow.com and for more information on her ensemble go to www.gaiaroots.com.

Lenox Historical Society

Lenox Historical Society is currently featuring a selection of Morris Elementary students' artwork displayed alongside our collection of early Lenox photographs, documents and memorabilia. Are you researching early Lenox families or properties? We have reference materials (cemetery records, maps, early tax records, Historic District information) to aid in your search. At the Academy, 65 Main St., Lenox. Open Thursday - Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appt. for special groups. For more information, call Vickie at 413-441-7902.

Join the Birth Circle

The birth circle is an informal meeting of parents and parents to be that offers an opportunity to learn more about birth and the midwifery model of care. Birth circles are held every third Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m. at Chapter Bookstore in Pittsfield, 78 North street and every first Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m. at The Noah center in Great Barrington, 401 Stockbridge Rd. The birth circle is for anyone interested in hearing positive birth stories, meeting others interested in birth, and sharing information and resources around birth and parenting. For more information, go to www.mfom.org or http://www.berkshiredoulas.org. Contact: serafinajp@netzero.net.

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December 15, 2008

An Invitation to Heal

The Hospice Services of Western Mass. invites you to participate in a group discussion, “Honoring our Memories: When Loved Ones are No Longer Present for the Holidays”. The holidays can be a very difficult and emotional time for those who have lost a loved lone. For some people the joy that once characterized these gatherings no longer seems appropriate, and they may feel that any kind of celebratory events are too painful to participate in. In order to support those who struggle with the holidays, Hospice Services of Western Massachusetts, is offering a group discussion built on the theme,“Honoring our Memories: When Loved Ones are No Longer Present for the Holidays”. This meeting will offer suggestions on how to approach the holidays and what individuals can do to honor those whom they have lost. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 16 from 5-7 p.m. at the Hospice Services of Western Massachusetts office at 66 West St. in Pittsfield on the lower level of the building. The public and all who learning to adjust to life without their loved ones are welcome to attend this free meeting. For information contact Rev. Dennis C. Castella or Beth Harlan, MSW, LICSW at 413-442-0045 or be email at dcastella@hospiceofweste rnma.com

Pittsﬁeld Green Drinks

Pittsfield Green Drinks is a very informal gathering, open to everyone with any environmental interest. Every month, on the third Tuesday, beginning at 5:15 p.m. we gather for "Green Drinks" at the Pittsfield Brew Works, 34 Depot Street. The next Green Drinks will be held Tuesday, December 16. If you are interested in any environmental issue, from the climate crisis to land preservation, or from wildlife habitat to recycling, please join the gathering beginning at 5:15 p.m. every third Tuesday of the month. Green Drinks in Pittsfield is co- sponsored by the Center for Ecological Technology (CET) and the Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT). "Green Drinks is a great way for people to find ways to get involved with helping to protect the environment." said Jane Winn, Executive Director for BEAT. What is Green Drinks? Green Drinks is an international forum where people who work in the environmental field meet for a drink and snacks at informal sessions. There will be a lively mix of people from Non-profit organizations, academia, government and business. Green Drinks is a great way of catching up with people you know and for making new contacts. These networking events are very simple and unstructured. Come along and you'll be made welcome. For more information about Pittsfield Green Drinks, contact Jamie Cahillane at CET (413-445-4556 ext. 14) or Jane Winn at BEAT (jane@thebeatnews.org or 413-230-7321).

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The Pittsfield Fire Department would like to remind everyone this holiday season to keep fire safety in mind. During the 2007-2008 winter holiday season there were 1,624 residential structure fires with 9 civilian deaths, 43 civilian injuries, 65 fire service injuries & $28.2 million loss in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Electric Holiday Lights Before plugging in newly purchased electrical decorations, or those you've used during previous seasons, carefully inspect each decoration. Cracked sockets, frayed, loose or bare wires, and loose connections may cause serious electric shock or start a fire. Replace damaged items with new decorations that bear the UL Mark. The green UL Mark means the light strings should be used only indoors. The red UL Mark indicates the light strings can be used

Holiday Fire Safety

both inside and out. Make sure to unplug light strings and electrical decorations before replacing light bulbs or fuses, and keep light strings and other electrical decorations away from children's reach. Electrical decorations aren't toys and could produce a deadly electric shock or cause a fire if misused. Make sure you keep light strings away from pets as well. Trees 1. Water the live tree every day. 2. Buy a cut tree as fresh as possible. A newly cut tree can stay green for several weeks. 3. Never use a cut tree in a public place, such as an office, lobby, or restaurant. 4. Always shut off the lights overnight and when you leave your home. 5. Never use lit candles as decorations.

6. Use a “non-tip” style tree stand. 7. Make sure the tree is at least three feet from fireplaces, radiators, space heaters, heating vents and other sources of heat. Cooking When cooking make sure to wear short or tight fitting sleeves, loose fitting clothes can easily catch on fire. Never throw water or use an extinguisher on a grease fire. Water will only spread the fire and the force of the extinguisher can splash flaming grease out of the pan. Don't leave items unattended on the stove, and make sure your home is equipped with working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers that bear the UL Mark. If you have any further questions about fire safety please call the Pittsfield Fire Department at 413-448-9764.

BCAC Seeks Volunteer Tax Counselors

Looking for a rewarding volunteer experience? Join the Berkshire Community Action Council in helping low-income families in Berkshire County to prepare their 2008 tax returns and claim eligible credits. No experience is necessary to become a volunteer; trainings will be scheduled in December and January. For more information, please call 413-445-4503, and ask for Linda Greenbush at x114 or Dave Christopolis at x122. Are you struggling from paycheck to paycheck? Overwhelmed trying to make sense of bills and statements? Would you like to have a better handle on how money works and how it can work in your life? Learn answers to these and other questions about effective money management, getting out of debt, credit control, and more at the next “$$$$ Cents”-Ability Workshop. Workshops are held the last Tuesday of every month, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. at BCAC, 1531 East Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Please call 413-445-4503x112 for more information.

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December 15, 2008

Handling Holiday Depression

While the holiday season is usually one of joy, happiness and celebration, for many people the emotion of the season is often depression. Fortunately, it doesn't have to be that way. Many of the things that leave us feeling depressed are things we can control. For example, the constant stream of media and advertising holiday images contributes to depression for many people. Comparing our own lives to these unrealistic images of holiday perfection, it's easy to feel left out, inadequate, or as if we aren't getting all that's due us. While there's no avoiding the holiday media/advertising blitz, but it's easy to accept that what we're being shown isn't reality, but rather the make-believe that comes with actors, make-up artists and high dollar productions. We don't have to compete with that. Eating healthier and getting enough rest is another way to fight holiday blues. Holiday foods usually mean too many rich, high-calorie party temptations, treats loaded with sugar, and opportunities to drink too much. Toss in a busy holiday schedule and it's easy to feel tired, unhealthy, overweight and generally depressed. So should you just avoid all those holiday foods? Actually, no, since that can leave you feeling deprived and more likely to finally over-indulge. Instead, use common sense and moderation. Limit alcohol consumption and enjoy your favorite holiday foods, but in reasonable-sized portions and without going back for seconds. And don't forget exercise. It's often ignored in busy holiday schedules, yet studies show that even small or moderate amounts of exercise can lift your spirits. It's also a great way to burn those extra calories of the season. Lastly, don't let depression rule your life. Holiday socializing is a great way to combat the blues. Make the effort to go and meet people at a party, or just call up a friend to go for coffee and talk about interesting things.

Spending time with others and refocusing your thinking on positive things you enjoy is your goal. Eating right, exercising, taking a realistic view of the holiday madness and having an active social life all take effort, but they're all essential to helping you enjoy the holiday season. Even small efforts in these areas can help you feel better physically and mentally. But if you find nothing seems to help fight that holiday depression, talk to a counseling professional. They're trained to help you work through and cope with these feelings. “The Counseling Corner” is provided as a public service by the American Counseling Association, the nation's largest organization of counseling professionals. Learn more about the counseling profession at the ACA web site, www.counseling.org.

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Big Y Raises $130,000 for Breast Cancer

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In order to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer, all Big Y Supermarkets donated proceeds from their entire produce department as well as additional select products throughout the store to the Massachusetts and Connecticut Affiliates of Susan G. Komen for the Cure for the entire month of October. Customers were generous in helping to raise a total of $80,000 to these local charities during the second year of this campaign. In addition, as part of Big Y's largest manufacturer joint effort, customer purchases of hundreds of thousands of pink products such as specially marked Campbell's soup, Thomas' English Muffins or Cheerios benefited breast cancer organizations on a national level. This month long program is formally called, “Partners of Hope” in order to reflect the partnership, commitment and support of breast cancer awareness and research that are so vital for many. According to Big Y CEO, Donald D'Amour, “We are delighted to be able to promote breast cancer awareness to our customers and employees within our community. Every dollar earned takes us closer to helping more and more women of all ages.” Formal check presentations in Massachusetts and Connecticut will be made to each organization soon. This $80,000 comes in addition to Big Y's Mother's Day campaign where the chain raised $50,500 from Big Y branded products. Thus, the 2008 total funds raised for the Massachusetts and Connecticut Affiliates of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is $130,500. Ronni Cohen-Boyar, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure explained, “At the local level, we are committed to 100% screening and 100% access to care for all of the Commonwealth's residents. The wonderful generosity of both Big Y and their customers will be felt as local programs are the beneficiaries of 75% of our net proceeds. In the big picture, the remaining 25% of our net proceeds are targeted towards research and national programming to fight the battle against breast cancer.” Headquartered in Springfield, MA, Big Y is one of the largest independently owned supermarket chains in New England. Proud to be family owned and operated, they currently operate 58 stores throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts with over 9,800 employees. Founded in 1936 by brothers Paul and Gerald D'Amour, the store was named after an intersection in Chicopee, Massachusetts where two roads converge to form a “Y”.

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December 15, 2008

Big Brothers Big Sisters Appoints New Board Members Big Brother Big Sisters of Berkshire County is proud to announce three new members to the Board of Directors: Deanna Schuster, Mary Beth Larrow, and Nicholas Grizey. Mike Monti, President of the Board of Directors said, “We are pleased to welcome three, outstanding local people to the board and look forward to working with them. They bring passion, experience and an enthusiasm to the team. In addition to their organizational and leadership skills, they also bring a genuine love and concern for the residents of Berkshire County - both children and adults alike.” Deanna Schuster is office manager for Ascentek, Inc., a Pittsfieldbased company specializing in IT support, network design, and network security services for local businesses. She came to Pittsfield in 2006 after graduating in 2005 from Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Schuster is a member of the Berkshire Leadership Program (BLP) and the Berkshire Business and Professional Women (BBPW) organization. In addition, she is currently working with members of the community as part of the Youth Leadership Task Force Committee to develop a youth leadership program for high-school students in Berkshire County. Schuster lives with her husband Josh and their chocolate lab, Hershey, in Pittsfield. Mary Beth Larrow is the Executive Assistant to the President of the Berkshire Economic Development Corporation (BEDC). The BEDC facilitates, coordinates and leads countywide economic development efforts designed to attract and retain high quality employers and employees and strengthen the economy of the Berkshires. A November 2008 graduate of the Berkshire Leadership Program, Larrow’s community involvement includes recently co-chairing the Berkshire Employment Outlook Committee and serving on the Berkshire Academies Mentor Program committee. She sits on the Board of Directors for the Berkshire Academies. Larrow has two sons. Brian is a graduate of the University of San Diego and teaches English in Xi’an, China. Daniel, a senior at Springfield College, will graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Exercise Science and plans to complete his required internship at the University of Australia - Sydney. Nicholas Grizey serves as Assistant Vice President of Branch Operations at Legacy Banks. In this capacity, he directs the operating functions of a network of 17 branch offices in Massachusetts and New York as well as the Customer Service Call Center. Grizey joined Legacy in 2004 as a branch administration analyst. He has since been promoted to branch operations manager and most recently branch operations officer. Grizey holds a B.A. in finance and operations management with dual concentrations in investment and corporate finance from The University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He is also an M.B.A. candidate with UMass, Amherst. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berkshire County has been serving children in Berkshire County since 1969, starting out as Big Brothers of Pittsfield, then in 1987 as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The Mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berkshire County is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, oneto-one relationships with measurable outcomes. Big Brothers Big Sisters is the only nationally affiliated agency in Berkshire County whose mission is solely devoted to mentoring. December 15, 2008

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Berkshire Chamber Holiday Chamber Nite

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The Berkshire Chamber of Commerce will host Holiday Chamber Nite @ Cranwell Resort, Spa & Golf Club, located at 55 Lee Road in Lenox, on Wednesday, December 17. Networking will be from 5-7 p.m. Attendees are invited to get in the spirit of the holiday season while enjoying complimentary hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar in the Mansion Ballroom. Tours of the spa will also be available throughout the evening. There will be several prizes given away that evening, but you'll have to be present at 7 p.m. when they are drawn, in order to win. Berkshire Chamber members can also take advantages of special promotions happening at Cranwell both before and after Holiday Chamber Nite. Spend the afternoon at the Spa at Cranwell prior to the event, and receive 20 percent off any spa treatment. As part of the treatment, Chamber members can enjoy a complimentary fitness class or relax at the indoor pool. After the event, a special dinner offer of 20 percent off dining in the Mansion or Sloane's Tavern is available to Chamber members. For mansion dining reservations, Chamber members can call 413-637-1364 and mention “Chamber Nite." The Berkshire Chamber offers monthly networking opportunities as a free benefit to members. Chamber Nite events are open exclusively to Berkshire Chamber members and their employees. To register, please call 413-499-4000, extension 26, e-mail choyt@berkshirechamber.com or register online at www.berkshirechamber.com.

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Leahy Family Christmas

On December 20 at 8 p.m. Leahy returns to the Colonial's stage to perform a holiday concert filled with favorite Celtic medleys and traditional Christmas carols. A Canadian powerhouse of eight musical brothers and sisters, this family of instrumentalists, singers and dancers brings a rare level of originality and musicianship to the stage. Leahy's most recent American tour included a sold-out stop at the Colonial, which remains the Colonial's most requested return performance. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Colonial Ticket Office at 111 South Street Monday-Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-2, by calling (413) 997-4444 or 24/7 online at www.TheColonialTheatre. org. The band's four acclaimed CDs - “Leahy”, “Lakefield”, “In All Things”, and “Leahy Live” - have world-wide sales of over half-a-million copies. They opened up for Shania Twain on her first World Tour and were the subject of an Academy Award winning documentary on the life and music of their family. Their countless awards and accolades span many musical genres, from traditional roots, folk, and country to pop, jazz, and classical. A Christmas show with Leahy is yet another multifaceted experience that takes audiences on a sensory and emotional ride with their music, dance and song. Through the magic of technology, they will share the stage with their parents and other people from their past. If that wasn't enough, they're adding more Leahys to the line-up by having the children of various members join them on stage to sing, play, and dance-just as they would if they were at a Leahy family gathering back home in Lakefield, Ontario. Leahy's performance will be interspersed with Christmas stories that make you feel as though you are one of the characters yourself. From sacred hymns and slow airs to a smorgasbord of fiery tunes and Christmas carols, they'll travel the spectrum when it comes to the intensity with which they play. The Leahys have always been known for the way in which they fuse musical styles and genres. The ease with which they do this becomes even clearer in their Christmas show with the way they employ symphonic arrangements with their violins, world rhythms with their dance, and haunting choral harmonies with their voices. �� How they're able to move from �� one genre to another is shocking �� at first, then understandable when �� you remember that they grew up �� in a household where music was �� everywhere. Music wasn't defined �� by words or categories, but rather �� its ability to touch and move one's �� soul. Leahy continues to share this �� attitude whenever they perform. �� They play for the joy of making �� music and the purpose of giv�� ing something more than sound �� to the listener-an experience and �� long lasting awakening. �� “Music has always been a huge �� part of our Christmas experience. �� As children, if it wasn't for all of �� the lights and decorations every�� continued on page 16 December 15, 2008

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where, we knew it was Christmas because there was a musical gathering every night of the week. Our house would be alive with people, music, dance and song! Children and adults alike all joined in and participated in the festivities. This is one aspect of our Christmas show that we're looking forward to the most, bringing the audience in on all of action taking place on stage. That may be where the music starts, but it won't be where it ends. You can't attend a Christmas gathering and not be expected to join in on all of the fun!” As much as Leahy still carries on these traditions today, the sacred importance of this time of year is what is first and foremost in their house. To that end, Leahy's repertoire of sacred hymns and Christmas carols runs deep as it comes from many years of singing in the Choir at Mass. In fact, it was in the church Choir that the Leahys learned how

to sing and harmonize. “It is such an important part of our Christmas experience that to this day, we still sing in the choir and at Mass on Christmas Eve.” These sacred hymns and choral arrangements are sure to be a highlight of their Christmas show. Watching a Leahy performance is always an extra-ordinary experience. You can't help but feel transported into another time and spacebe it their living room back in Lakefield on a snowy December night, or one of many Cathedrals around the world on Christmas Eve. A Leahy Family Christmas will make you feel like you've been taken on one of the most exhilarating Christmas adventures of your life. And to think, all in one show, on one night and from one family.

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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.

Lenox Contra Dance Series - Our Holiday Dance

The Lenox Contra Dance celebrates with it's annual Holiday Dance on December 20. The early session, from 5 to 7 p.m., features one of two local favorite bands, Bottom of the Bucket, with calling by Jon Greene. Really good contras with several waltzes mixed in. Then from 7 to 8 p.m. we will have a potluck dinner. It's a nice warm opportunity to chat and be part of our whole community. For evening dance, from 8 to 11:30 p.m. we have another area band that has played many, many wonderful dances, The Flying Garbonzos, with Fern Bradley calling. In keeping with the earlier session, there will be extra waltzes. This is a great double header event, especially if you love waltzing or would like to get in some practice!

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Thursday, December 18 • 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.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. - Old Parrish Church in Sheffield • 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Community Outreach Van - Free Health Insurance Enrollment & Health Screenings. Phone 413-445-9215 - Price Rite, Dalton Ave., Pittsfield • 10 a.m - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge • 10 a.m - Library Time for Ages Three to Five - Features Stories, short videos and craft activities, and a snack. - Dalton Free Library, 462 Main St., Dalton. For information call 413-684-6112. • 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 • 10:30 a.m. - Storytime - Preschool - Bushnell Sage Library, 48 Main St., Sheffield • 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screenings by the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association 413-4472862 - Grace Episcopal Church, Main St., Dalton. No registration is required. • 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. - Preschool Story Craft - Preschool Story Craft is for children 3 to 5 years of age. The program features stories, songs & follow-along activities followed by a craft related to stories. Contact: Debby Cuthbert 637-0197 ext. 105 - Lenox Library Association, 18 Main St., Lenox • 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4-5 p.m. - “The Snow Must Go On” - We will paint a Happy Tree or Santa Snack Dish will we read our story. Info: 413-442-9300 - Bisque, Beads & Beyond, 370 Pecks Road, Pittsfield • 1 p.m. - HIV/Sexually Transmitted Disease Screening and Hepatitis C testing. Confidential and be anonymous, no charge although donations are accepted. Those wishing to be tested should call 413-447-2653 for an appointment. - Suite 210 of the Ambulatory Care Center on the North Adams Regional Hospital, 71 North Ave., North Adams • 1-4 p.m. - Blood Pressure Screenings by the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association 413-447-2862 - Stop and Shop, 660 Merrill Rd., Pittsfield. No registration is required for this event. • 2-4 p.m. - Beading Basics - Learn the basics to creating your own necklaces and bracelets . We will cover stringing materials, findings, kinds of beads and design concepts. Classes will include handouts and you will

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complete a necklace to take home! Tuition includes all supplies and instruction. Pre-registration is required as class size is limited. Info: 413-442-9300 - Bisque, Beads & Beyond, 370 Pecks Road, Pittsfield 2-4 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. Info: 413-447-2862 Hillcrest Campus, 165 Tor Court, Pittsfield 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. - Book Club for Ten to 12 YearOlds - Stockbridge Library, Main St., Stockbridge. For information phone 413-298-5501. 4-5 p.m. - Hope Support Group - A support group for men and women living with advanced or recurrant cancer, group meets at the Health Information Center, Main Lobby, Berkshire Medical Center, North St., Pittsfield. To register, or for more information phone Kathy Hart at 413-395-7965 or Karen McNultyat 413447-2655. 5:30 to 8 p.m. - Adult Painting Class - Swirl Painting/ Marbelizing Class : Learn to create a fabulous pottery pieces just in time for the holiday season. We will teach you a fun and easy way to create a perfect marbelizing effect every time! Chose from platters, mugs, ornaments, wine accessories and more. Info: 413442-9300. - Bisque, Beads & Beyond, 370 Pecks Road, Pittsfield 6 p.m. - Thursday Night Country Line Dancing - instructor is Cheryl Wendling - 413-443-6263 for information. - Itam Lodge #564, 93 Waubeek Rd., Pittsfield 6-8 p.m. - Fused Glass Pendant Class - Create two incredible fused glass pendants and learn two great fusing techniques. We will cover the art of fusing glass, cutting glass, safety and clean up and design concepts. Classes will include handouts and you will complete the two pendants as the glass projects. Pre-registration is required as class size is limited. Phone: 413-442-9300. - Bisque, Beads & Beyond, 370 Pecks 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. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. - Voices of the Mountains Toastmasters - Free, 413-241-7314, Voices of the Mountains, the Toastmasters chapter in Williamstown, covers all of the Northern Berkshires, meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. - Sweetwood on route 7 (about 3.2 miles south of Main Street) in Williamstown 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

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and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee 6:30-9:30 p.m. - Reiki Share - Open to all Reiki Practitioners with Annie Rogers, Reiki Master. Info: 413-243-2834, www.soulandspiritcenter.com Berkshire Soul and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee 7 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 7 p.m. - “This Wonderful Life,” starring Tom Beckett. Info: 413-236-8888 or barringtonstageco.org. Barrington Stage Company, Stage 2, 36 Linden St., Pittsfield 7 p.m. - “Voices Will Be Heard” a free vocal concert. Selections include everything from Chaplin and Sondheim, to Schumann and Bach. Students will be accompanied by Harriet Rothstein and Jean Stackhouse. Phone: 413-442-1411 - Berkshire Music School, Edgar B. Taft Recital Hall, 30 Wendell Avenue, Pittsfield 7 p.m. - Lee Land Trust Meeting. Open to the public, new members are always welcome. - Lee Town Hall 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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7:30 to 8:30 p.m. - Debtor’s Anonymous - A program for compulsive debtors and underearners, meets at Unitarian Universalist Church, corner of Wendell Avenue and Broad streets, Pittsfield, second floor. 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 8:30 p.m. - Rev Tor...Solo Act - Every Thursday Night at Flavours, meet one of the most talented guitarist and song writers, up close and personal in an intimate performance setting...Must Be 2 ...No Cover Charge - Flavours at the Econo Lodge, Rt. 7, Lenox 9 p.m. - D.J. B.F.G. performs. Phone 413-528-5959. - Bogies Steak & Ale 935 South Main St., Great Barrington 9 p.m. - Quarter Life Crisis performs. No cover charge applies. Phone 413-684-0900 for details. - Mill Town Tavern, 16 Depot St., Dalton

Friday, December 19 • 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.

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11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Adult Glass Fusing Class - Learn the basics of creating wonderful glass gifts by kiln fusing glass. We will cover the art of fusing glass, cutting glass, safety and clean up and design concepts. Classes will include handouts and you will complete a glass project. Pre-registration is required as class size is limited. Info: 413-442-9300 - Bisque, Beads & Beyond, 370 Pecks Road, Pittsfield 3 p.m. - Phyllis Prysby presents “Rainbows and Holidays,” a photography slide show. This events is free and open to the public. To request a reservation or for more information, please call 413-499-1992. - EPOCH at Melbourne is located at 140 Melbourne Road, in Pittsfield. 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 p.m. - Berkshire County Homebrewers Association Monthly Meeting. We meet the 3rd Friday of each month. All interested people are welcome. Phone 413358-3866 for details. - Elks Lodge, 27 Union Street, Pittsfield 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: 413-637-2700 - Firefly Restaurant and Bar, 71 Church St., Lenox 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. - Zion Lutheran Church, 74 First St., Pittsfield 7:30 p.m. - The Red (and Green) Room, the Main Street Stage’s holiday production, will be broken into two acts: a variety show and an original one act adaptation of A Christmas Carol titled “A Critic’s Carol”. Phone: 413-664-7745 - 57 Main St., North Adams 8 p.m. - “This Wonderful Life,” starring Tom Beckett. Info: 413-236-8888 or barringtonstageco.org. Barrington Stage Company, Stage 2, 36 Linden St., Pittsfield December 15, 2008

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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. - Recovery International - A self-help, after-care 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. 8 p.m. - Tor - Solo Show. - Mission Bar & Tapas, 438 North Street, Pittsfileld 9 p.m. - Erin McKeown performs. Phone 413-5283394 - Club Helsinki, 284 Main St., Great Barrington 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 9 p.m. - Longview Gunslingers With Danny Pearse and the Regulators performs. Phone: 413-637-3188 Flavours at the Econo Lodge, Rt. 7, Lenox

Saturday, December 20 • All Day - “Hot Chocolate Saturdays” Chill out, then warm up. Climb Hurlburt’s Hill, then slide, sled, ski, or trek back to the warmth of our Visitor Center and enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. FREE with admission. Telephone: 413-229-8600 Bartholomew’s Cobble, Weatogue Road, Sheffield. • 8:15 a.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Berkshire Mall Community Room, Route 8, Lanesborough, handicapped accessible • 9 a.m. - Berkshire Trails/Notchview Nordic Race Series - Informal race series for fun and fitness sponsored by the Berkshire Trail Nordic Ski Club open to all. Expect a mix of classical and freestyle races at both 5 Km and 10 Km distances. This race is a criterion format. Other dates to be announced. Bad weather cancels. Call 413684-0148 for conditions. - Notchview, Windsor • 9 a.m. - Christmas Cookie Sale. - Church of the Good Shepherds, Rt. 102, South Lee • 9 a.m. - Nordic Race Series - Informal race series for fun and fitness sponsored by the Berkshire Trail Nordic Ski Club open to all. Expect a mix of classical and freestyle races at both 5 Km and 10 Km distances. Dec 20th race is a criterion format. Other dates to be announced. Bad weather cancels. Call 413-684-0148 for conditions. - Notchview, Route 9, Windsor • 9-10 a.m. - Santa’s Celebration, featuring visit from Santa, coloring, music and more. Donations welcome; reservation required. Phone: 413-684-0260. - Community Recreation Association, 400 Main St., Dalton. December 15, 2008

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9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Saturday Indoor Market - Dewey Memorial Hall on the green in Sheﬃeld 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Hike With Santa - Kids will enjoy a half-mile hike with Santa, learning about nature and the wonders of winter. He’ll also hand out small, naturerelated presents! Please pre-register. Telephone: 413229-8600. - Bartholomew’s Cobble, Weatogue Road, Sheﬃeld. 10 a.m to 3 p.m. - Rose Day - Order a “candy cane” bouquet of six red and six white roses from the Brien Center. For ordering and information phone 413-6291260. - Brien Center, 25 Marshall St., North Adams 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.

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12 p.m. - Metropolitan Opera “Live in HD” season continues with Massenet’s “Thaus” Info: 413-528-0100 or mahaiwe.org. - Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, Castle Street, 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 2 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge

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 1-800-749-6879 or visit www. webspawner.com/users/slaane.

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December 15, 2008

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4 and 8 p.m. - “This Wonderful Life,” starring Tom Beckett. Info: 413-236-8888 or barringtonstageco.org. - Barrington Stage Company, Stage 2, 36 Linden St., Pittsfield 5-11 p.m. - Lenox Contra Dance Series - Holiday celebration, with two separate bands performing throughouth the evening. - Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker Street, Lenox 7 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 7 p.m. - Interactive production of “A Christmas Carol” adapted and produced by Frank and Kristen Marquette, owners of Murder Cafe in Pittsfield, featuring cast of veteran actors from around Berkshire County. Ticket includes three-course meal. Reservations required. Phone: 413-499-2075. - Aster’s Steak House, South Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. - The Red (and Green) Room, the Main Street Stage’s holiday production, will be broken into two acts: a variety show and an original one act adaptation of A Christmas Carol titled “A Critic’s Carol”. Phone: 413-664-7745 - 57 Main St., North Adams

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9 p.m. - Bootleg performs. Phone: 413-637-3188 Flavours at the Econo Lodge, Rt. 7, Lenox 9 p.m. - Karaoke night. Call 413-298-3530 for details. - Michael’s of Stockbridge, 5 Elm Street – Stockbridge 10 p.m. - Static performs. Phone: 413-684-1730. - The Dalton Depot, 450 Housatonic St., Dalton

Sunday, December 21 • 8 a.m. - Early Season Rail Jam - Competition will take place on the Twisted Terrain Park. Open Class is competing for a cash purse. 12 & Under for prizes. To compete you need to bring the following: Entry Form & Release of Liability signed by a parent if under 18 to the registration table in the Lower Lodge. You also need to have in your possession a Ski Butternut Terrain Park Pass, valid Lift Ticket or Season Pass. All entry fees must be paid in cash. Phone: 413-528-2000 - Ski Butternut Ski Area & Ski Shop, 380 State Road, Route 23, Great Barrington • 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 10 a.m - Berkshire Knapsackers - Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Snowshoe or hike depending upon conditions. A climb to the ﬁre tower is optional, depending on conditions and interest. Leader: Carl Filios. Phone: 413-442-8984. - Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Lenox 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Healing And Forgiveness - Dark Night Of The Soul With Sotu, channeled by Josh

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Schwartzbach - Phone 413-243-2834 for details. Berkshire Soul and Spirit Center, 69 Main St., Lee 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 1-4 p.m. - Art in Action - Sunday afternoon dropin art workshops focus on family fun and hands-on adventure! Each month will feature new projects,

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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 p.m. - “A Christmas Carol”. Phone: 413-298-5576. Berkshire Theatre Festival - The Unicorn Theatre, 6 East Street, Stockbridge 2 p.m. - “Sunday Opera Series” oﬀering the best in European opera on ﬁlm, features “Hansel und Gretel” (German with English subtitles, 2 hours, 15 minutes, plus one intermission) by Englebert Humperdinck, conducted by Kazushi Ono, from the Glyndebourne Festival in England. Info: 413-997-4444

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New Fairfield

Bridgewater

Naugatuck

Southbury

Brookfield

Newtown

Seymour

Bethel

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Easton Weston Wilton

Stamford

Greenwich

New Canaan Norwalk

Darien

Prospect

Fairfield Westport

Woodbridge Ansonia

Derby Shelton ��

Trumbull Stratford Bridgeport

Cheshire

Beacon Falls Bethany Hamden

Oxford

Danbury

Ridgefield

Waterbury

Middlebury

Wallingford

North Haven

New Haven

Orange West Haven

Milford

East Haven

Connecticut Towns

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or thecolonialtheatre.org. - The Colonial, South Street, Pittsfield. 2:30 p.m. - Monthly meeting - Free refreshments after the meeting! Phone 413-443-7134 for information. Itam Lodge #564, 93 Waubeek Rd., Pittsfield 5 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - Trinity Church Annex, Walker Street, Lenox 5 p.m. - Pianist John Bedard will perform. This events is free and open to the public. To request a reservation or for more information, please call 413-499-1992. - EPOCH at Melbourne is located at 140 Melbourne Road, in Pittsfield. 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 - County Line performs - cover charge applies. Call 413-443-7135 for info ITAM Lodge #564 on Pontoosuc Lake, 22 Waubeek Road, Pittsﬁeld 7-9 p.m. - Berkshire Writers Room’s Scriptwriting Group - Meetings will be on the third Sunday of every month. All skill levels are welcome, because the goal is to help members harness that great idea and bring it into the appropriate format. In that vein, our workshop is open for any kind of scriptwriting - Screenplays, Staged Plays, Radio Plays, and plays for Television.

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Bring your ideas or works in progress, whether they are 10 minutes long or full-length productions. We hope to see you there! For directions to BCC or any info contact Jeﬀ Brace at 413-464-7125 or email me at rocketeerj@live.com - Koussevitzky Arts Center, Berkshire Community College, 1350 West St., 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

Monday, December 22 • 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

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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. 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,

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Yankee Shopper

December 15, 2008

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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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 732-940-9658. 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 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 413298-5252 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.

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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

Call 888-307-0839

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Yankee Shopper

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Yankee Shopper

December 15, 2008