Yankee Shopper by Hersam Acorn

Yankee We Don’t Sell Advertising… We Sell Results!

www.yankeeshopperonline.com

Shopper February 23, 2009

Vol. 31 No. 78

Inside this week’s Issue

Berkshire Bank will launch its Community Investment Program on March 16, 2009, expanding personal and business credit, supporting the growth of the housing market and providing assistance to nonprofit organizations which are central to tourism and the cultural vitality of the communities in our western Massachusetts, northeastern New York and southern Vermont markets. Berkshire Bank is the banking subsidiary of Berkshire Hills Bancorp (NASDAQ: BHLB). Berkshire’s President and CEO Michael P. Daly stated, “We have identified key areas of opportunity where we can provide the greatest benefit to our markets and that will have a positive ripple effect impacting the most consumers. We plan to provide $500 million in personal and business lending in 2009. Our program will stimulate the housing market, and also focuses on key

Federal and State mortgage initiatives. The program will also support the unique needs of our nonprofit organizations, which have been particularly hard hit by declining endowments, grants, and contributions as a result of the economic downturn.” Massachusetts State Senator Benjamin B. Downing, was briefed on the program and provided this endorsement, “Berkshire is one of Massachusetts’ oldest and largest independent banks, and the largest banking institution in Western Massachusetts. It is a strong element of our state’s financial system and what they are doing at this point is spot-on with their responsibilities as a leader in their communities.” Highlights of the program and additional details will be available at all Berkshire Bank branches on March 16, 2009, and through its web site at www.berkshirebank.com

Dining Giveaway ............... Page 6 Sudoku .............................. Page 16 Crossword......................... Page 15 Home Improvement ........ Page 11 Horoscope ........................ Page 14 Business & Services ......... Page 18 Classiﬁeds ........................... Page 2 Real Estate ........................ Page 22 Auto ................................... Page 20 Help Wanted..................... Page 23

PERMIT NO. 122 PITTSFIELD, MA

Stimulus Program Focuses on Consumer, Housing and the Nonproﬁt Economy

Dining / Entertainment .... Page 6

PRSRT - STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID

BERKSHIRE BANK OFFERS COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PROGRAM

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.

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

To our valued readers and advertisers,

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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 ■

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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

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

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Display Deadline*: Wednesday at 5 p.m.

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

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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 ��

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Thank you,

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

We have decided to suspend our weekly publication, the Yankee Shopper effective immediately. This decision is a difficult one and is necessary due to the severity of the economic downturn and the increasing costs of doing business. All of us at the Yankee Shopper would like to thank our valued readers, supporters and advertisers who have made this paper such a part of their community for the last 35 years. We also thank our dedicated employees who have put so much of their time and energy into making the Yankee Shopper so successful for many years. We will continue to publish our sister papers the TriState Pennysaver and the Vermont News Guide as well as our wide variety of specialty publications in both Massachusetts and Vermont. We hope to resume publication when the economy improves. If you have questions or need further assistance please call 1-800-234-1432.

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Yankee Shopper

February 23, 2009

Berkshire Bank Foundation Launches Scholarship Program $36,000 to be Awarded to Students Active in their Communities

PITTSFIELD, Mass. In an effort to help students pursue their goals of a higher education, Berkshire Bank announced a scholarship opportunity for high school seniors in Berkshire Bank’s communities located in western Massachusetts, northeastern New York and southern Vermont. The Berkshire Bank Foundation will be granting $36,000 in total scholarship dollars primarily to students who have exemplified community service through their volunteer efforts, have been successful academically and have a demonstrated financial need. The program highlights the Foundation’s support for education and the Bank’s commitment to promote volunteerism in the community. “A priority of our Bank and Foundation is to support quality education and help deserving young people obtain a college degree,” said Foundation Executive Director Peter J. Lafayette. “Through this scholarship program we will be recognizing young people who have made a positive difference in their schools and communities. By targeting these scholarships to these young leaders, we hope to encourage volunteerism among young people that will lead to a lifetime of community service.” Under the program, eighteen (18) $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors who will be attending a 2- or 4year college in the fall. Applications will be evaluated based on demonstrated volunteerism in the community with non-school

sponsored activities and through participation in extracurricular school activities. Applicants must have a GPA of at least 3.0 and a financial need (total family income under $75,000). Students must apply by March 31, 2009 and have the endorsement of their school guidance office. Only 5 applications per school will be accepted. An independent panel of community volunteers and bank employees will review all applications and select this year’s winners. Scholarships will be given out in the regions where Berkshire Bank branches are located with six (6) to be awarded in Berkshire County, six (6) in the Pioneer Valley, three (3) in southern Vermont and three (3) in the Albany region. Applications can be downloaded on the Bank’s website at www.berkshirebank. com/foundation/about/scholarships. To be considered, all applications must be received in the Foundation’s Pittsfield’s office by March 31st. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Berkshire Bank Foundation at scholarshipinfo@berkshir ebank.com In 2008, Berkshire Bank began a bank-wide Employee Volunteer Program in which employees participate in group projects that benefit the community. A total of five group projects took place in 2008 and the program will be expanded in 2009. The Bank believes that promoting volunteerism at an early age will benefit both the volunteers and communities and will hopefully lead to on-going community involvement. The new Scholarship Program is a continuation of that philosophy.

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Yankee Shopper

The Tim Formel Fund Tim Formel, 18, of Park Street in Housatonic, graduated from Monument Mt. Regional High School last June, and was enrolled in automotive classes at Hudson Community College, New York. He is also a racecar driver with Team Formel. Tim had an unfortunate accident on Thanksgiving, sustaining severe injuries to his right leg. He has been at Massachusetts General Hospital and rehab at Spaulding Hospital in Boston since. Even though he had multiple surgeries, his right leg couldn’t be saved, and recently had to be amputated below his knee. Fortunately, he will be able to have prosthesis at a later date. His parents, Mark and Sarah,

of Formel Motor Company in Housatonic, have been vigilant at his bedside in Boston. Tim was scheduled to come home on February 20, 2009. Family and friends have been keeping track of his progress with daily updates from Sarah via the hospital Carepages at www.carepages.com.carepages/timformel. These pages give everyone a way to write notes and good wishes to Tim and his parents. A dinner dance is tentatively planned for the end of March, and a few other fund raisers are also being planned. Contacts for information are: Rebecca Namislo, 413-2983236 or Sue Pullaro, 413-448-2719. An account has been opened for Tim Formel at the Greylock Federal Credit Union, and donations can be sent to The Tim Formel Fund, c/o Rebecca Namislo, P.O. Box 1034, Stockbridge, MA, 01262.

Early Lenox Maps ��

The Lenox Historical Society has a large collection of early Lenox maps, photographs, town reports, historic district information and cemetery records at the Museum of Lenox History, 65 Main Street, Lenox. Open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment for special groups. For more information, please contact Vickie at 413-441-7902.

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Yankee Shopper

February 23, 2009

Williams Jazz Ensemble with Lew Tabackin The Williams College Department of Music presents the Williams Jazz Ensemble with special guest artist Lew Tabackin on Friday, March 6, at 8 p.m. in Chapin Hall on the Williams College campus. This free event is open to the public. The Williams Jazz Ensemble and Music Department are saddened by the death of David “Fathead” Newman. David was scheduled to perform as a guest with the ensemble. This is a great loss to the world of music and the world in general. The concert will be dedicated to the memory of him and his legacy. Lew Tabackin will join the ensemble under the direction of Erik Lawrence. Tabackin, flutist and tenor saxophonist, is an artist of astonishing vision. His electrifying flute playing is at once virtuosic, primordial, cross-cultural, and passion-

ate. His distinctive tenor sax style includes the use of wide intervals, abrupt changes of mood and tempo, and purposeful fervor, all in the service of showing the full range of possibilities of his instrument - melodically, rhythmically, and dynamically. Without copying or emulating jazz greats of the past, Mr. Tabackin has absorbed elements into his style, ultimately creating his own sound and aura. The flagship Williams Jazz Ensemble (big band) plays formal concerts on campus, and also travels each year, with performances ranging from the Boston area to New York as well as throughout the Western Mass. region. In January of ‘08 the Ensemble was in residence at the University of the Americas in Puebla, Mexico. For more information, visit http://www.music.williams. edu or call the concert hotlineat 413-597-3146.

Williams College Department of Music Presents MIDWEEKMUSIC The Williams College Department of Music will present their weekly lunchtime recital series featuring student and faculty performers on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at 12:15 p.m. in Chapin Hall on the Williams College campus. This event is free and open to the public. All are invited to bring a lunch and listen to wonderful performances of classical, jazz and world music. Seating is on the stage of Chapin Hall. Check music.williams.edu for specific program details.

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Salem State College will honor its alumni veterans with a Veterans Benefit Fair on Thursday, June 4, 2009, from 4 to 6 p.m. The event will mark the launch of the Alumni Veterans Group at the school. College President Patricia Maguire Meservey invites both retired and actively serving members of all military branches to attend the event, which is free and open to the public. Dinner will follow with Representative John Tierney, a 1973 graduate of the college, providing a keynote address. “Over a hundred veterans are expected to attend,” commented Eileen O’Brien, director of Salem State Alumni Affairs. Veterans events will kick off the college’s annual Alumni Weekend, which runs from Thursday, June 4 to Sunday, �� June 7, 2009. For more infor� � mation, contact O’Brien �� at 978-542-7529 or email �� the alumni affairs office at �� alumni@salemstate.edu. ��

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Salem State to Honor Alumni Veterans

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A benefit pasta dinner will be held on Tuesday, March 17 at Salmon Run Fish House from 5 to 8 p.m. for Doug Wilcox, co-owner of Paperdilly, who was severely injured in December while crossing Main Street. He was struck by a car while in the crosswalk, and received many serious injuries that put him in the hospital for five weeks. He is now faced with a long recovery and lots of physical therapy. No advance tickets will be sold for the event, but they will be on sale at the door with all proceeds going towards Doug’s recovery costs. A fund has been set up at Lee Bank for this purpose. The event is open seating on a first come, first served basis. Paul Face, co-owner of Salmon Run and Marcia Slaminsky, coowner of Ben’s, are organizers for the benefit.

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Beneﬁt Pasta Dinner Scheduled for Doug Wilcox

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February 23, 2009

Yankee Shopper

karen keenan gifts & home

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Offers Beautiful Gifts at Reasonable Prices

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By Mary Ann White This week’s spotlight is about a beautiful shop in Lee that I have always wanted to visit, but never had the chance until now. The shop was first located in another building on Main Street, then owned by Pamela Loring and called Pamela Loring Gifts & Interiors. The business grew, demanding more space, so in 1998 the Lorings purchased the house at 151 Main Street. Jeff Keenan completed interior and exterior renovations. Built in 1830, the building is listed with the Historical Society as the Wakefield House. Karen Keenan helped out her sister-in-law Pam on and off since the first day she opened the shop. Pam’s husband Jim eventually trained her to take over the books and then to manage it so they could take time off when needed. Karen bought the business in 2006 and changed the name to karen keenan gifts & home, while Pam and Jim moved on to their new business endeavor – The Morgan House. Greeting customers walking through the door are smells of potpourri and candles, and soft music is playing in the background. Karen’s dog Chloe is also there every day and has become the store’s mascot. Karen said sometimes people just come in to see her. Each room is filled with beautiful displays of gift items offered for sale by category. Karen gave much credit to Sandy Hayes and Kim Kirby who come in and do the decorating. Kim is also a very creative artist who has some of her work displayed and for sale in the shop. The large front room is used for seasonal items, and a large Willow Tree assortment is displayed near the front windows. These Karen says are a great price point. With the economy the way it is Karen has tried to bring in items that are nice, but in lower price ranges. “I am still getting

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Yankee Shopper

February 23, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • Monday, February 23 •

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Access Project will host free health screenings, health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. Please call Luci at 413528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. Senior Center, Great Barrington. • 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 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. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-662-3133 or visit www. naplibrary.com.

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: 413-243-1212 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 413-447-2862. 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 413528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. Sheffield Senior Center in Sheffield. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Community Outreach Van. Free �� health insurance �� enrollment and �� 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. �� al-anonberkshire. �� org. Newcomers are welcome at all �� meetings. St. John’s �� Episcopal Church, 59 �� Summer St., North � �� Adams. 1 to 3 p.m. �� CHP-He a lt hy �� Communities

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karen keenan gifts & home

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the traffic, but they are spending less. People can still get a nice gift here, one who “lives, lived in, or loves The Berkshires,” Karen said. but for less,” she said. Along one of the walls is the line of skincare products including Filling the store are gift items for birthdays, new homes, anniversaries, Crabtree & Evelyn, which Karen says are a strong seller. baby showers, weddings, and so much Karen spoke of the line of Italian leather more. Brand Names seen are Crabtree wallets from Italy that she has for sale. Pam’s & Evelyn, Vera Bradley, The Thymes, daughter was in Italy for a semester in college and found a shop selling leather wallets. She Byers’ Choice, Camille Beckman, Pimpernel, Willow Tree, Russ Berrie, brought back one and was asked by all her Ty, Gund, and Bunnies by the Bay. classmates about them. Through the shop in Karen has focused several of her Florence (Gioia Chiara), she was able to get her classmates each one and also the opportunity gift choices on the Tween-ager, the in-betweeners that are hard to buy for them to be sold in Lee, Massachusetts – the for. One such gift is a build-a-bracelet only other place in the world that they are sold where you can make up your own other than the shop in Florence, Italy. There bracelet for $10 – a great price for a are no two alike, and they come in wallet size, nice piece of jewelry that you create key cases, and key chains with very reasonable yourself. There are also books, stuffed prices. animals, magnetic wall art, and other Bracelets of the month are priced at $16.95 jewelry items for this age group. – a great birthday gift. By now I am overwhelmed with all that Karen’s shop was also one of the first Karen has to offer in her shop and I haven’t to offer The Berkshire Bracelet, which is one of her top sellers. It is all sterling, even seen half of it. with 4 different colored stones depictEntering another room we find the little stationary room where Karen has a large ing the 4 seasons. A card is included assortment of greeting cards for $2.95 or less. that explains the meaning of each Karen Keenan stands near her ItalianInspirational CDs are located here also. stone. The creator of these bracelets made line of wallets. Sheboasts the only Also to be found are wedding items, the has now introduced earrings to match. shop in the world that carries them besides the gardening area, the pet corner which features These are a great seller to locals or any- creator in Italy. the Cain and Able Collection, the Vera Bradley line which takes up about half of one room, and The Pantry where recipe books and kitchen items can be found. Byers’ Choice Carolers are also available. While Karen put out her Open sign I ventured upstairs to the Baby Room where baby gifts galore could be found including Baby Gund, Twilight Turtle, Sleep Sheep, Bunnies by the Bay, and Robeez. Robeez, which are soft-soled leather footwear designed by a woman whose son named Robbie had shoes that would always fall off. They range in sizes from newborn to 4 years. Christening and Baptism items can also be found in this room. In the unique gifts category Karen has the Eglomise University Series and Baseball Series mirrors, framed pictures, desk boxes and glass paperweights. The University series began in 1965 with only 12 colleges offered. Now almost every four year college in the US is available, including medical and law schools. The Baseball Series offers scenes �� of all Major League Baseball stadiums. Eglomise Designs, Inc. has also �� been contracted to do Lee buildings. Watercolors done by Vickie Johnson are also for sale in the shop. Her �� animal creations are done from photos. She started with a line of greet�� ing cards that are also sold in the stationary room. I was very glad that I took this opportunity to stop in and see Karen’s �� shop and plan to make a return trip when my granddaughter comes to visit on her next school vacation. She will love it! It was a very nice visit with Karen, and I could have spent hours just looking at all of the items in her shop. karen keenan gifts & home is located at 151 Main Street. The phone numbers is 413-243-2689 or toll free: 888-9KEENAN, and the website is www.karenkeenangifts.com. The shop is open from Monday-Friday 10-5, Saturdays 10-5 and Sundays 11-4.

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Yankee Shopper

February 23, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • •

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.

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Tuesday, February 24 •

9 a.m. - Playful Parenting classes. Pre-registration is requested for this program sponsored by Berkshire Families and Children’s Services. Phone: 413-4585369. David and Joyce Milne Public Library, 1095 Main Street, Williamstown. • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Community Outreach Van. Free health insurance enrollment and health screenings. Phone 413-445-9215. Christian Center, 155 Linden St., Pittsﬁeld. • 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. - Blood Pressure Clinic:

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Blood pressure and health counseling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and the Blandford Board of Health, at the Blandford School, 1 Russell Stage Road, Blandford, MA. Information: 413-243-1212 9:30 a.m. - Toddler Time. For one to two-and-ahalf years. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-6623133 or visit www.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. Sandisﬁeld Old Town Hall. Please call Luci at (413) 644-0104 ext. 15 for additional information or questions. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - CHP-Healthy Communities Access Project will host free health screenings,

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Helping the Forgotten Felines of Berkshire County:

Animal D.R.E.A.M.S.

By Yvonne Borsody, Founder and Director of Animal D.R.E.A.M.S.

As the sun sets and thermometers register below zero, another biting Berkshire night begins. While the air freezes our nostrils on upon inhaling, and fingers sting from the cold, it is hard to imagine how the animals out there can possibly survive this brutal season. And when the freshly fallen snow reveals footprints of a feline, coming from under an abandoned building, or around a restaurant dumpster, we know that they are homeless and in need of help. But what can we do, when these cats are so afraid of humans that our mere approach sends them running away? Feral cats are wild, and are frightened of humans. Unable to be tamed, they live outdoors, avoiding humans, trying to find food and shelter as they survive the seasons. Without human intervention, feral cats live only a few years on average, succumbing to disease, injury, and the perils of frequent breeding. Kittens born in the wild have a 42% mortality rate before reaching adulthood. Since 1999, Animal D.R.E.A.M.S. (Dignified Rescues, Education, Advocacy, Medical Services) has been the only organization in Berkshire County to help this neglected population of cats. Animal D.R.E.A.M.S. (www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org) has helped two thousand cats in Berkshire County, and prevented the births of several thousand kittens through a vigorous spay/neuter campaign. Through Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), feral cats are humanely trapped, taken to a veterinarian for spay/neuter, vaccinations and health check, and then returned to their home territory and cat family, known as a colony. Why are there so many feral cats (estimated at 75 million in the

U.S. alone) and what can be done to help them? The blame clearly falls on irresponsible humans; those who do not spay or neuter their pets, those who abandon their cat when they move, or when that cute little kitten grows up and begins its mating behaviors. The abandoned cats that survive will eventually settle near a food source, such as dumpsters, and begin breeding. Forced to survive outdoors, housecats often revert to a wild state, and any kittens born without human handling at a young age, will grow up feral. A female cat can have two to three litters of kittens each year; unchecked, a pair of unaltered cats can mushroom into 20 cats in just a year’s time. However, in colonies where all the cats are TNR’d, kitten births will end, and the cats will be able to live out their lives with dignity, free of the injuries and disease that accompany the mating cycle. Berkshire County is fortunate to have “managed” colonies of healthy, well-fed, non-reproducing feral cats that are enjoying life and controlling rodent populations. However, with several thousand other cats living out of doors, it takes a community-wide effort to make a difference. Neighborhoods must join together to become aware of the cats living among them, and then work together to help them. After TrapNeuter-Return, the cats must be cared for, with food, water and shelter provided by caring individuals. Volunteers, students, and businesses have all pitched in to help, and the rewards are many. Would you like to help save a life? Contact Animal D.R.E.A.M.S. at (413) 528-1328 or go to www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org.

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A December Rescue On a snowy December day, the call came in like this: “There’s a cat in my basement for 3 days now; it pushed its way in through a window, but now I can’t find it. When I do, I’m just going to trap it and take it down the road, or else shoot it.” Whoa, cowboy, I thought, let cooler heads prevail. Since I know this individual, I knew I could reason with him. “Have you checked with all your neighbors? (No) Have you heard it meowing? (No) Have you put food or water down? (No).” Knowing he lives in a very rural area, and aware of the heavy snowfalls and frigid temperatures of late, I knew the cat must have been desperate to push its way into his basement. I also knew that he has a colony of feral (wild) cats living on his property, courtesy of his deadbeat brother who had moved on and left his breeding female behind. Animal D.R.E.A.M.S. had intervened last year, when we trapped, neutered and returned (TNR’d) the 10 cats that had resulted from the one female. For these, he provided food, and we had helped him convert a tool shed into a comfortable, hay-lined shelter for the colony of ferals. After a stern reminder that shooting the cats or “relocating” were against the law, I appealed to his higher nature, and convinced him to put a bowl of water and food downstairs for the hungry feline, until I could get there and he could ask all his neighbors about the mystery cat. Upon my descent into his cluttered basement, I started softly calling “here, kitty kitty”. A feral cat would not reply, for that would give away its location, and feral cats’ survival depends on remaining elusive. But within five seconds, a plaintive “mew” came back at me from the darkness. “Here, kitty kitty” I called again. “Mew, mew” came the reply. I beamed my flashlight in the direction, and caught a glimpse of a gray figure slinking around a pile of wood and debris. We continued to converse, and after ten years and

two thousand rescues, I knew from her voice that this was a housecat. Once befriended by my outstretched hand and canned cat food, I was able to gently pick the cat up and hold her close in my jacket, until I could place her into the cat carrier I had brought. We all breathed a sigh of relief, and “December’s” fate was sealed. Saved! Now she was in the care of Animal D.R.E.A.M.S. An examination revealed a very friendly, older female cat; all but two of her teeth were missing. How did she get there? Why was she out in the snowy cold, on a backcountry road? Had she been abandoned by someone, had her owner died, or moved, or gone into a nursing home? Was she lost? I could only guess, and she would never tell. December is now enjoying life in a foster home; she is affectionate, healthy, and eats well despite her lack of teeth. She accepts dogs, but isn’t fond of other cats. She plays with her toys, and lavishes rubs and purrs as though to say “thank-you.” She loves curling up next to the wood stove. December would not have survived this harsh winter. She would have succumbed to hypothermia, frostbite, or starvation. She would have died an agonizing death. But for December, and countless other cats rescued by Animal D.R.E.A.M.S., her plight had a happy ending, and she is waiting for a loving home to call her own, forever. Whether feral cats that are wild and therefore not adoptable, but cared for by Animal D.R.E.A.M.S., or abandoned pets that are rescued and gently re-homed, we are there for the forgotten felines of Berkshire County. To learn more about Animal D.R.E.A.M.S. and how you can help, or to read about more of our rescues, visit www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS. org or call 413.528.1328. ��

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. Please call Luci at 413528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. Senior Center, Great Barrington. 10:30 a.m. - Story time. Information: 413-4585369. 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 Clinic: Blood pressure and health counseling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and the Becket Board of Health, at the Becket Town Hall, Becket, MA. Information: 413-243-1212 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

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from the Berkshire Visiting Nurse Association at 413-447-2862. Big Y, 200 West St., Pittsfield. 12 to 1 p.m. - Blood pressure and health counseling 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. 3 to 5 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, Dalton. 413-684-0521. • 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. - Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, St. Martin’s Church, 133 Dalton Ave. (corner of Benedict Road and Dalton Ave.) Additional parking in bank lot across the street. Pancakes, sausage, fruit cocktail, beverage and desert. Donation: Adults, $5.00, children, $2.00. For reservations call Gloria Dailey 413-499-2895 6:30 p.m. – Monthly Meeting of the Lee VFW at the Lee Senior Center, 21 Crossway Street, 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 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. Information: 413-637-3188 - Flavours at the Econo Lodge, Rt. 7, Lenox. February 23, 2009

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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 25 •

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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 Street, Lee. 10 a.m. - Preschool Story Time. North Adams Public Library, 74 Church St., North Adams. For information phone 413-662-3133 or visit www. naplibrary.com. 10 a.m. - Story time. Please call to register - there are openings in the Wednesday group. Information: 413-743-8345. 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, and health insurance information. Please call Luci at (413) 644-0104 ext. 15 for additional information or questions. New Marlborough Town Hall. 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 413528-9311 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 and health screenings. Phone 413-445-9215. Dalton CRA, 400 Main St., Dalton. 10:30 a.m. - Story time. Information: 413-4585369. David and Joyce Milne Public Library, 1095 Main Street, Williamstown. 12 to 1 p.m. - Blood Pressure Clinic: Blood pressure and health counseling sponsored by the Lee Regional Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. and the Chester Board of Health, at the Chester Town Hall, Chester, MA. Information: 413-243-1212

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • •

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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 413528-9311 ext. 2147 for additional information or questions. CHP-Dental Center, Great Barrington. 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Senior Tea Dance, FREE, Berkshire South Community Center, Gt. Barrington, MA. Enjoy ballroom dancing, music, light refreshments and an opportunity to share a fun afternoon with friends. Jaﬀe Auditorium. Dances are held the fourth Wednesday of each

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month. Please RSVP by calling 413-528-2810, or just drop in. 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 413446-5925. 5 to 6:15 p.m. - Yoga for Your Everyday Life. Call 413-269-0075 or visit the web site at www. healthyboomerbody.com to register or for more information. Healthy Boomer Body Center in Otis. 5:30 to 7 p.m. - Bereavement Support Group offered by VNA & Hospice of Northern Berkshire. Information: 413-664-4536. VNA & Hospice of Northern Berkshire, Inc., 535 Curran Memorial Highway, North Adams. 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 and 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, Hinsdale Lions Club, Maple Street, Hinsdale, MA. Arrive Early! 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: 413-4437135 - ITAM Lodge #564, 22 Waubeek Road, Pittsfield. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. - Wednesday Evening Tune-Ups - 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. 7:00 p.m. – The Pittsfield 4th of July Parade Committee meets monthly on the 4th Wednesday of every month, Morningside School, Burbank Street, February 23, 2009

• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS •

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Pittsfield, MA.They are looking for volunteers to help make the July 4th Parade bigger and beter than ever before. Please send donations to Pittsfield Parade Committee Inc., P. O. Box 1738, Pittsfield, MA 01202. Visit our website at; www.pittsfieldparade. com 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 conference room, Tor Court, 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. St. Mark’s Church, Commercial St., Adams. 7:30 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line 413-445-5852. Web site - www. al-anonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Grace Episcopal Church, Main St., Dalton. 7:30 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous. Fairview Hospital, 29 Lewis Ave., Great Barrington.

Thursday, February 26 •

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9 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Community Outreach Van - Free health insurance enrollment and health screenings. Phone 413-445-9215. Wal-Mart, 830 Curran Highway, North Adams. 9:30 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. 413-6840521. 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. For children 3 to 5 years of age. The program features stories, songs

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and follow-along activities, followed by a craft related to the stories. Contact: Debby Cuthbert. Phone: 413-637-0197 ext. 105. Lenox Library Association, 18 Main St., Lenox 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. - Dalton Community Blood Drive at the Dalton American Legion located at 258 North Street by the American Red Cross. All presenting donors will receive a Red Sox t-shirt along with being entered into a chance to win FREE home heat for one month. For more information or to make an appointment please call 1800-448-3543 or visit www.givelife.org. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments will have the priority. A positive ID is needed to donate. 12 p.m. - Overeaters Anonymous - 9 Locust Hill Rd., Great Barrington. 2 to 4 p.m. - CHP Healthy Communities Access Project will host free health screenings, health education information and health insurance enrollment assistance. West Stockbridge Town Hall. Please call Luci at (413) 644-0104 ext. 15 for additional information or questions. 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, 165 Tor Court, Pittsfield. 3 to 4 p.m. – A Short Journey to France. A 3 part series offered by Micheline Laguilhomie of Stockbridge Appropriate for children ages 10 – 13. Micheline travels to France every year and would like to share her experiences as well as field questions regarding life in France – school, food, art, language, history – anything of interest to her audience as well as her own thoughts and experiences in that country. There is no charge but registration is required. Call the Stockbridge Library at 413-298-5501 3:15 p.m. – Junior Choir rehearsal. First Congregational Church-UCC of Williamstown, 906 Main Street, Williamstown, MA, 413-4584273. 7:30 p.m. – Senior Choir rehearsal. First Congregational Church-UCC of Williamstown, 17

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • •

906 Main Street, Williamstown, MA, 413-4584273. 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

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Church, Water & Main Streets, Williamstown. 8 p.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line - 413-445-5852. Web site -www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Christ Church, Route 7 and Maple Avenue, Sheﬃeld.

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • Friday, February 27

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10 and 11 a.m. - Aquarium Adventures - Toddlers enjoy playtime and a story, then meet a diﬀerent animal each week. Sponsored by Target. Free with museum admission. Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., 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. • 5 to 8:30 p.m. - Youth Group Movie Night. First Congregational Church-UCC of Williamstown, 906 Main Street, Williamstown, MA, 413-458-

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4273. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. - Metaphysical Book Club. The Book Club meets at Berkshire Soul & Spirit Center on Main Street, Lee. The current selection, Seth Speaks by Jane Roberts is considered a seminal work in the arena of channeling and conscious reality creation. Pre-registration requested. Free. Berksh ire Soul & Spirit Center is handicapped accessible at 69 Main St, Lee, MA 01238. 413-243-2834. www. soulandspiritcenter.com. 6:30 p.m. – Bingo every Friday. Doors open at 4:30, games begin at 6:30. St. Mary’s School, 115 Orchard Street, Lee. 413-243-1079.

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • •

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7:00 p.m. – Race to the Top Lecture, African American Explorers, with Dr. Bruce Bridges. Matthew Henson, the ﬁrst black explorer, was indispensable to Peary’s expedition team. Dr. Bridges examines Henson’s and other African American’s contributions to exploration. Free. 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 28 •

8:15 a.m. - Overeaters Anonymous Berkshire Mall Community Room, Route 8, Lanesborough • 9 a.m. - ALANON meeting. 24-hour Information Line - 413-445-5852. Web site -www.alanonberkshire.org. Newcomers are welcome at all meetings. Fire House, Route 23, Monterey. • 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!

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• BERKSHIRE COUNTY CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS • •

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Berkshire Museum, 39 South St., Pittsﬁeld. 5 to 7 p.m. – Ham Dinner The Dalton United Methodist Church is having their monthly dinner and everyone is invited. Dinner, dessert and beverages all included. Adults $10.00 and Kids 5-12 (age) $5.00 and Children 4 under are free. You can pay at the door or you can get your tickets in advance by calling 684-0521. 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. 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.

Sunday, February 29 •

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. • 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 information. ITAM Lodge #564 on Pontoosuc Lake, 22 Waubeek Road, Pittsﬁeld.

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