Berkshire Business Journal May 2025

Forging new connections Berkshire Muse, a concierge service, aims to cultivate relationships and community.

Page 2

Berkshire Business Journal

Teaching for the skies

First Step Aviation takes flight at Pittsfield Municipal Airport

started her own flight school, First Step Aviation, at the Pittsfield Municipal Airport.

BY DYLAN THOMPSON

PITTSFIELD — A close call in midair changed Yulia Bougouin’s life.

In April 2009, Bougouin and her husband, Jean Yves, were flying out of Washington, D.C., in their Bellanca Super Viking. As always, Yves was at the controls, while Bougouin, who knew nothing about aviation at the time, was the passenger.

Shortly after takeoff, Bougouin had started to drift off when she was awakened by a loud bang: The plane had struck two large geese, blowing out the windshield. One of the birds — and perhaps debris from the windshield — struck Yves in the left eye, causing a gash that would require 16 stitches.

With the windshield off and wind buffeting their faces, the couple wondered if they were going to survive.

“That was a pretty scary near-death experience,” Bougouin said. “That made me

Bougouin flies a Piper Cherokee 180 over The Berkshires. Bougouin also hopes to go into high schools and present aviation to kids, especially girls.

think about how I didn’t know anything about flying [a] plane.”

Yves was able to land the plane safely, but Bougouin was shaken by the experience. She turned her attention to learning more about aviation, which eventually led to her becoming an FAA certified flight instructor.

“It’s like a switch flipped in my head,” Bougouin said of her first flight as a pilot. “I just didn’t want to stop. I wanted to keep learning, and then I just kept going… The passion just emerged.”

Now, Bougouin has taken the next step in her journey, launching First Step Aviation in February.

FLIGHT SCHOOL, Page 3

Front pages

Forging connections, curating experiences

Berkshire Muse concierge service aims to fill a void

By C larenCe Fanto

LENOX — Newly arrived millennials and 20-something members of Generation Z often find themselves lonely and isolated in the Berkshires.

That was Lauren Fritscher’s experience after relocating part-time to Stockbridge in 2021, with her husband, Reid Warner, and infant son August, now 4, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The family moved to Lenox full-time in 2023.

“I had a really hard time at first,” Fritscher said during a conversation at a downtown Lenox cafe. “I wasn’t necessarily ready to leave New York City.”

After growing up in New Orleans, she had worked in the fashion industry for 15 years in New York and several years in Singapore. She’s not a typical newcomer to the Berkshires, she acknowledged.

After spending quality time at Tanglewood during her first summer, she started to feel at home, making friends and discovering a sense of community by cultivating multigenerational relationships with local residents and going on hikes.

“I fell in love with the ambiance and camaraderie at Tanglewood,” she said. As a new resident, Fritscher also developed a fondness for a slower lifestyle during the winter.

She conceived Berkshire Muse, a concierge service, two years ago to fulfill a personal need for creating community with like-minded friends. The business model also includes “adding value to existing businesses” and collaborating with cultural organizations.

“For me, it was survival mode, to create something where I could become part of the community, to acclimate and meet people here,” Fritscher said. Her idea was to create and curate events as a navigator to highlight local talent.

“It’s for locals looking for something new and interesting to do,” she said. “It’s also for visitors who want to have a fun experience.”

She has been hosting networking events for Social Circle, an

offshoot of Berkshire Muse.

“There are a lot of things you can do outdoors here on your own,” she pointed out, “but I was hearing about the need to develop social interaction and

community, more events people could share.”

The Social Circle mission — a partnership with photographer Tricia McCormack and McCaela Donovan, associate director

Leaders of Lauren Fritscher’s Social Circle, an offshoot of her Berkshire Muse social and event planning company, are, from left, McCaela Donovan, associate director of the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires, photographer Tricia

at the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires — includes bimonthly private and public gatherings at downtown venues such as the new Belvedere Lenox and Doctor Sax House boutique hotel and cafe, and a June 10 event on the terrace at The Mount.

“The passion and purpose of Berkshire Muse is to curate experiences for people and highlighting the talent here,” she said.

Fritscher, 41, launched the business in a soft opening last summer, creating “highly stylized” luxury picnics with all the fixings and high-end accoutrements for small groups, part-

nering with the existing Berkshire Picnics business.

She’s now switching into high gear for the upcoming warm-weather season.

“The company has evolved and I’m collaborating with different organizations and producing galas for the WAM Theatre and for the Berkshire Montessori school in Lenox Dale,” she said.

Another upcoming project is a Berkshire Muse partnership with Mass Audubon at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary for a ticketed dinner, “Forage Forward” for 60 guests on May 23 to launch a series of four annual events focusing on the challenge of confronting climate change.

That event features photographer Abigail Fenton snd guest speaker Anne Therese Gennari, author of “The Climate Optimist Handbook.”

Acknowledging competition in the event planning field, Fritscher said most of those businesses focus on weddings.

“I’ll take on smaller weddings,” she said, “but I’m really giving people the opportunity to celebrate birthdays. anniversaries and dinner parties.”

When hired, she does early planning and logistics, and is onsite the day of the event to make sure everything goes smoothly. “I also offer unique services like ‘Styled Bites’ — an affordable, elevated alternative to full-service catering,” she pointed out.

Through her company, she’s also cultivating relationships with area cultural organizations, not only for galas but to support their efforts to attract younger patrons.

“We’ve become a society that’s very attached to our phones and our screens, and we don’t take the time to gather,” she Fritscher said. “We’re in a time when people need in-person connection and shared experiences.”

Finding “like-minded energy” is her goal, but “it’s not about the age, it’s about tapping into people who are ageless, with younger energy” and to “help usher in 30- to 40-year-olds who are in New York or Boston to experience our culture. But I do want to serve and provide experience for anyone.”

Information: hello@berkshiremuse.com, 917-704-7077, www.berkshiremuse.com

Clarence Fanto can be reached at cfanto@yahoo.com.

The flight school, located at Pittsfield Municipal Airport, is dedicated to providing quality flight training. Hers is the only flight school at the airport entirely focused on training.

“Make [my clients] into safe pilots and make them enjoy it,” Bougouin said of her mission. “Every time you take off, you have that exhilaration and that feeling that you are flying above the earth.”

Bougouin, who was born in Kharkiv, Ukraine, has lived in the United States for 20 years. Growing up, Bougouin wasn’t exposed to flying, and for her, it seemed like a “fantasy world.”

“I feel incredibly lucky that I found it even though it was later in life,” Bougouin said. “I found it and I love it. That’s why I decided to make it more than just a hobby.”

Bougouin did her flight training in Great Barrington, quickly obtaining the flying bug. She had her first flight in November 2019 and started taking it seriously in 2020, eventually becoming an instructor in November 2022.

She notes that everyone knew that she was the “crazy girl.”

Bougouin started giving lessons for Lyon Aviation, something she still does, but wanted to use her business background more. Bougouin also owns Patisserie Lenox with her husband. She decided that it would be smart to open her flight school.

“It’s exciting and nerve-wracking because I know that it’s a hard business,” Bougouin said. “I’m still a woman in aviation, which is still only about 7 percent [women]. ... A lot of people would not consider taking lessons from a woman pilot, so that is a scary part.”

The flight school offers private pilot, instrument pilot and commercial pilot

training. The school also provides flight reviews, instrument proficiency check curriculum and aircraft checkouts.

“I knew it would be a tough business to compete in,” she said. “I do have confidence in my abilities and students that I’ve had left wonderful testimonials on my website.”

The plane that Bougouin uses is a Piper Cherokee 180, well known for its stability, capability and ease of flying. The plane seats four people and has low wings and a strong avionics system.

Bougouin notes that when flying a low-wing plane, “It feels more like a real plane.”

To illustrate her point, Bougouin invited this reporter and a photographer to take a flight — a spin around Pittsfield, up to Mount Greylock and back. (One would not have guessed that Bougouin was at one point in her life fearful of flying.)

Wanted: Buyer, pastry chef for local ‘fixture’

Patisserie Lenox selling Great Barrington location

By HeatHer Bellow

GREAT BARRINGTON — The owners of Patisserie Lenox bakery and cafe on Main Street have put the business up for sale, but plan to keep operating their original Lenox location.

Owners Jean Yves and Yulia Bougouin are trying to scale back their baking output and overall responsibilities.

Pastry chef Jean Yves is “past retirement age,” Yulia Bougouin said, and they have not found a new pastry chef with the skills to continue the business.

And Yulia Bougouin has started her own flight school in Pittsfield, having caught the flying “bug” years ago.

The 1,700-square-foot Great Barrington cafe is listed with Stone House Properties for $345,000. It is a “turnkey business that has been a fixture in Great Barrington since 2013,” the listing says.

Patisserie is both a French pastry shop and a breakfast and lunch cafe.

“Capitalize on a loyal customer base in a high-foot-traffic area,” the listing says, “along with strong brand identity and established reputation.”

A buyer would take on the current lease, and the price includes “fully equipped kitchen, modern baking equipment, display cases, coffee/espresso machines and excellent seating arrangements for customers to enjoy dining in.”

Yulia Bougouin said they have an interested and serious buyer, but it is only a verbal agreement right now.

A new owner will have to come up with a new name, she added, but the couple is willing to train and provide their recipes.

“We’re not worried about competition,” she said. “We want less business.”

Yulia Bougouin said the couple have previously closed their Northampton and Hudson, N.Y., cafes. They’ll keep operating on Church Street in Lenox in the building that they own. Part of the challenge in hiring a new pastry chef is that it is a “dying profession,” she said.

Yulia Bougouin sees cutting back the scale of cafe ownership and work as “a repositioning of the family resources.”

“I feel like I have no choice,” she said. “I got this aviation bug, and it’s all I want to do.”

Flight school

FROM PAGE 3

She made sure to explain all the avionics to her passengers and check for safety before takeoff. In the air, she frequently checked on her passengers, making sure they were not nauseous.

Bougouin said she has enjoyed her time at the Pittsfield airport and working with the other flight school that focuses on charters and jets. She also has enjoyed finding her own clients and it’s been an easy transition.

She notes that Airport Manager Daniel Shearer has been in favor of having a flight school that is stationed and available at all times. Lyon Aviation also dabbles with flight training, but is focused on it’s other services, which include chartering and aircraft management.

Bougouin’s flight school is solely focused on flight training.

“The demand is there for flight training,” Shearer said. “There is a significant shortage in pilots across the board.”

What was once not a discussion between Bougouin and her husband on who would fly when they travel has now become a conversation. The couple splits time in the pilot role, with Yves flying

Jean Yves Bougouin and his wife, Yulia Bougouin, are selling the Great Barrington business in an attempt to scale back work for a new phase of life. They’re listing the cafe as a “turnkey” business for $345,000. They say they will train a new owner and share recipes.

PHOTOS BY BEN GARVER

“The

demand is there for flight training. There is a significant shortage in pilots across the board.”

Daniel SHearer, Pittsfield Municipal Airport manager

when the weather is nice and Yulia when the weather is bad.

“If you ask him, it used to be a point of contention,” Bougouin joked.

Bougouin is focused on taking things slowly with her school. She and her husband have also scaled back operations with their pastry business, going from four locations to just the one in Lenox.

Bougouin also plans to present aviation to high school kids, especially girls. She has already heard from Miss Hall’s School and has been contacted by a school in Bennington, Vt. Teaching aviation to women is important to Bougouin.

“I’m very interested in promoting aviation for girls and women,” Bougouin said. “I’m a member of Women in Aviation and The Ninety-Nines. … I’m just hoping to stay busy.”

Email: info@firststepaviation.com

Telephone: 714-627-7304

Can send message on website: www.firststepaviation.com

People in the Berkshires

GREAT BARRINGTON

7 honorees selected for Nonprofit Awards

The Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires, in partnership with The Berkshire Eagle, has announced the names of seven honorees receiving recognition at the eighth annual Berkshire Nonprofit Awards on May 20.

The Berkshire Nonprofit Awards recognize the accomplishments and dedication of the people who work in the nonprofit sector.

“There were many excellent nominees this year, however, the judges found consensus very easily based on the impact these honorees have had both on their organizations and in our community,” said Liana Toscanini, founder of the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires.

A panel of 22 judges from the business and nonprofit sectors deliberated via Zoom to choose honorees in each of seven categories from among 50 nominations. The honorees are:

Board Leadership: Cynthia Farr Brown, Berkshire County Historical Society

Executive Leadership: Melissa Canavan, Berkshire Immigrant Center

Samya Rose Stumo Youth Leadership: Rachael Bentz, AIRY (Arts in Recovery for Youth)

Rock Star: Lauren Smith, Fairview Hospital

Unsung Hero: Chris Ciepiela, Berkshire Horseworks

Volunteer: Pamela Conroy Breslin, Literacy Network

Lifetime Achievement: Jane Winn, Berkshire Environmental Action Team

The awards breakfast will be held from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. May 20 at the Country Club of Pittsfield. The event will feature breakfast and networking, a performance by Youth Alive, and presentation of awards.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online at npcberkshires.org.

GREAT BARRINGTON

Fairview listed as a top critical access hospital

Fairview Hospital has been named among the 2025 Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the 13th straight year Fairview has been so honored, according to Berkshire Health Systems.

The annual Top 100 award program honors outstanding performance among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance Index.

“The South Berkshire community expects and relies on only the highest level of care from our caregivers and staff at Fairview Hospital,” said Tony Scibelli, BHS vice president and Fairview chief operating officer. “This ongoing recognition epitomizes the commitment our staff makes each and every day for each and every patient who walks through Fairview’s doors.”

The index is the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the index is utilized nationwide by rural hospitals,

health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

LENOX

Attorney Paula Almgren listed as ‘Super Lawyer’

Paula K. Almgren, founder of Berkshire Law Group in Lenox, has been named to the Massachusetts Super Lawyers list, an honor given to fewer than 5 percent of attorneys in the commonwealth. This marks the fifth year that Almgren has earned this recognition.

Almgren has been in practice for over 20 years counseling clients in elder law as well as estate, trust and tax planning and administration, and life care. She is an accredited attorney with the Department of Veterans Affairs and a graduate of Williams College and Albany Law School of Union University.

Recognized as a state expert on Medicaid as well as leveraging community resources to help older people stay in their homes, Almgren has gained a reputation for her compassion, integrity and commitment to those she serves.

Berkshire Law Group is one of the few law firms in the country that includes an RN/care coordinator working alongside attorneys, veteran and Medicaid benefits coordinators, probate, trust and estate administrators, and more.

In 2020, Almgren served as president of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Massachusetts Chapter. As a board member for two decades, she and her peers have also been instrumental in changing laws to benefit seniors, the disabled and veterans.

Almgren also serves on the Fairview Hospital Ethics Committee and the Pittsfield Council on Aging. She is a member of the Alzheimer’s Partnership, the Life Care Planning Law Firms Association, the Berkshire County Estate Planning Council, and the Massachusetts and Berkshire Bar Associations.

She is licensed to practice law in Massachusetts.

GREAT BARRINGTON

Market Match fundraiser aids farmers, SNAP recipients

Berkshire Agricultural Ventures has launched its 2025 Market Match Fund campaign, a public fundraising effort that runs during the month of April prior to the opening of the region’s outdoor farmers markets.

This year’s campaign aims to raise $30,000 from individual donors to help support Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) matching at 10 Berkshire-area farmers markets: Pittsfield, North Adams, Great Barrington, Lee, Sheffield, Stockbridge, West Stockbridge, Williamstown, Berkshire Grown Winter Market, and New Milford, Conn.

BAV’s Market Match Fund makes grants to partner farmers markets to support $1-to-$1 SNAP matching up to $30 per transaction, increasing sales for local farmers and making fresh, local food more available to low-income households who receive SNAP benefits.

BAV’s spring fundraising campaign builds on the organization’s wider, year-round effort to raise approximately $180,000 in annual funds for the program.

BAV will celebrate this community campaign and the start of the farmers market season on Saturday, May 10, with a booth at the Pittsfield Farmers Market, which is run by Roots Rising. To donate, visit berkshireagventures. org/support.

NORTH ADAMS

Malkas inducted into Women’s History Hall of Fame

In celebration of Women’s History Month in March, Mayor Jennifer Macksey inducted retiring North Adams Public Schools Superinten-

dent Barbara Malkas into the mayor’s Women’s History Hall of Fame.

A trailblazer in education and leadership, Malkas becomes the second female superintendent in the city’s history, following in the footsteps of Julia Dewey, who served from 1893 to 1895.

Since assuming the role of superintendent in 2016, Malkas has been a driving force in shaping the educational landscape of North Adams. Malkas has also served as president of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents.

Her leadership has extended far beyond the school system. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including: The Against the Tide Award from the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition; The Changing Lives after 55 Award from the Northern Berkshire YMCA; The MASS President’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education; The Unsung Hero Award from The Berkshire Eagle for her caring leadership during the pandemic; The Zonta Club of Berkshire County Award for building a better world for women and girls; and the AASA Superintendent of the Year Award.

“As Dr. Malkas prepares for her well-earned retirement, I can think of no better way to honor her legacy than to induct her into the 2025 Women’s History Hall of Fame,” said Mayor Macksey. “Her unwavering commitment to education and the North Adams community will never be forgotten.”

PITTSFIELD

People of color can get homebuying assistance

Greylock Federal Credit Union has been approved to participate in the Lift Up Homeownership program, a special purpose credit program offered by Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston to provide financial assistance to people of color purchasing their first home. Through Lift Up Homeownership, people of color earning up to 120 percent of the area median income are eligible to receive up to $50,000 toward a down payment and closing costs to purchase their first home in New England. Participating homebuyers are required to complete a homebuyer counseling program prior to receiving a program grant.

Eligible buyers include borrowers who are Black, American Indian/Alaska Native, Hispanic, Asian, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander. Assistance is given on a first-come, first-served basis To learn more about applying for homebuying assistance through the Lift Up Homeownership program and other programs Greylock offers in partnership with FHLBank Boston and other organizations, contact the Greylock mortgage department at 413236-4125.

STOCKBRIDGE

Solar project complete at Botanical Garden

Berkshire Botanical Garden has taken a significant step toward sustainability with the installation of a state-of-the-art solar panel array.

The new system, which includes 102 solar panels on the roof of BBG’s Education Building, will go online in the coming weeks.

The $121,000 project was paid for through a generous $45,132 matching grant from Tern Foundation’s TernSOLAR Challenge Grant Program. The Botanical Garden raised $45,132 from individual donations. The remainder of the project costs will be offset through a 30 percent IRS credit.

A utility interconnection agreement with utility provider National Grid will allow any excess electrical production to offset electrical use throughout the grounds and buildings. Once the panels go online, they will generate power to offset more than 67 percent of the organizations’s current electricity use, in a carbon neutral

way. The organization will realize about $13,000 in annual savings, at current electricity prices.

BOSTON

Berkshire Bank exceeds $5B goal for communities

Berkshire Bank’s Community Comeback program has exceeded its $5 billion goal to lend and invest across the company’s markets. The bank launched the multiyear program as communities emerged from the pandemic in 2021.

The impact of the Community Comeback, which has been honored nationally as an exceptional demonstration of corporate responsibility, focused on strengthening communities in four key areas: fueling small businesses; community financing and philanthropy; financial access and empowerment; and environmental sustainability.

Highlights of its results include lending more than $3.5 billion to invest in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods; more than $600 million in lending for low-carbon projects; more than 800,000 individuals impacted through financial wellness programming; 100 percent renewable electricity use since 2023; and more than $50 million in sustainable investments under management.

The program was honored late last year with the prestigious Community Commitment Award by the American Bankers Association Foundation for its positive impact on economic inclusion in Berkshire Bank’s communities.

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Electra’s Cafe up for sale

Tiring of long hours, owner eager to go out on a high note

By C larenCe Fanto

LENOX — After 40 years as a Pittsfield and Lenox restaurateur, Electra’s Cafe owner Peter Lepotakis has put the locally popular breakfast and lunch destination on the market for $225,000.

Lepotakis was the original owner of Patrick’s Pub, opened in 1985 on Bank Row in downtown Pittsfield. After selling his share of that business, he opened Electra’s Cafe at 439 Pittsfield Road (Route 7/20) on April 10, 2012, offering traditional and Mediterranean cuisine.

Soon to turn 67, Lepotakis says he’s going out on a high note, with customer traffic at a peak and his business profitable after rebounding from the COVID shutdowns and post-pandemic slump.

“Obviously, business suffered for almost two full years,” he said, noting a reduced four-day schedule of take-out and dine-in. Electra’s had opened as breakfast and lunch only, adding evening meals a year later.

“I’ve earned a rest; it’s got to happen sometime,” he said during a conversation at the 439 Pittsfield Road cafe on Monday, where he was doing several hours of work on his one day off. “I’m working 60 to 70 hours a week, and I’ve done that pretty much my whole adult life.”

For about a year, he pondered the timing of his decision to step away, even though he has been busier for breakfast and lunch than ever before. “I see it only getting better for whoever takes over,” he said.

Except for next week’s annual spring break, Electra’s will remain open until sold, Lepotakis emphasized. The cafe is

named after his grandmother, Electra Zarvis.

Lepotakis shares the chef’s hat with his nephew Jared Keegan, who handles baking and desserts. The business has 10 employees, including six or seven who work part time. With help hard to find as the pandemic slowly waned, “it just got to a point of do you want to work yourself into the ground,” Lepotakis said about the decision to return to breakfast and lunch only. That schedule also suited his younger staff’s family schedule. He also pointed out that

there are only several options for breakfast and lunch along the busy state highway north of downtown Lenox. Electra’s, which caters to year-round residents but also welcomes visitors, has quite a few local regulars. some who come in several times a week.

“You look at all the activity that’s going on along the strip right now,” he pointed out. “It’s a good time for somebody to start,” noting the imminent opening of two new hotels along with several car dealerships, with Berkshire Mazda already up and running.

Lepotakis also cited the recent arrival of Amazing Pho in the Market 32 complex.

“I’ve always embraced competition rather than worry about it, because it brings more people to the area,” he said. “If I do my job and put out a good product, I’ll get my share of customers.”

His six-day work week (Tuesday through Sunday) stretches from 4:30 or 5 a.m. for early prep until early afternoon following the midday rush.

“This year, especially for a little restaurant, we’re doing as well as we can do, with sales up about 10 percent over last

year,” he said, even taking inflation into account. “On average, we’re doing more customers per day. We’re probably the least expensive place for breakfast in Lenox, more comparable to center of Pittsfield pricing.”

By adding Door Dash, a new proprietor could increase revenue up to 20 percent, Lepotakis said, since younger generations often prefer home delivery.

As a Pittsfield resident who grew up in Dalton, Lepotakis is pleased to see Daltonians among his customers, including one of his retired teachers at Wahconah High Cchool, Carlton Dodge, now 90, and the school’s longtime coach, Fran Reardon. Lepotakis doesn’t plan to pull the plug on work completely after the cafe is sold. “I just couldn’t do nothing. But even if I worked a 40-hour job, it would seem like part-time to me now.”

So, he’s considering doing some catering, working for a business partner.

“You don’t have to take every job that comes your way, you can keep your hours not only flexible but reasonable as well,” he said. “I’ve had a good run; I have no complaints.”

The listing by Timothy Gallagher, director of commercial sales for Stone House Properties, states that a new owner would assume the current lease at the turn-key spot in prime condition with a liquor license, seasonal outdoor dining, and all equipment. A series of threeyear lease options would follow, Lepotakis said.

“Everything you need to start running your new restaurant right away,” Gallagher stated. Adjacent to the Holmes Road intersection, the cafe with 40 seats (15 more with outdoor dining) is in a small commercial cluster owned by Eric Taylor of Restorations in Hinsdale.

“It’s bittersweet,” Lepotakis acknowledged. “I enjoy coming to work; I really like my staff and my customers, so from that standpoint, I’m going to miss it.”

New Pilates studio opens in Great Barrington

By H eat H er Bellow

GREAT BARRINGTON — Tanya Grillon has closed one Pilates studio and opened another in the span of two weeks.

Her latest venture, Echelon Pilates, opened on April 1 at the “Flying Church” complex off Main Street.

She’s offering a range of Pilates mat classes with space for four people. And she has two “reformer” machines and other equipment, for private or semi-private sessions.

The Pittsfield native and former ballet dancer has taught the Pilates method for 12 years after a career teaching different types of exercises. She received her training in Stott Pilates in South Windsor, Conn.

Pilates is a series of exercises developed by Joseph Pilates, a German physical trainer who taught his method in New York City. He also taught at Jacob’s Pillow, and built a studio in Becket.

And he also held a men’s mat class in downtown Lee, Grillon noted.

The method is “designed to elongate, strengthen and restore the body to balance; so much more than just building a ‘strong core’ or ‘perfect posture,’” according to the Pilates Foundation.

Grillon says that Pilates was “the Einstein of fitness,” and created what she believes is the best method for restoring the body to its natural functioning.

Even football players do the technique, Grillon said. It’s great for all ages, and particularly for physical rehabilitation and therapy, she noted. The age of her clients has ranged from age 17 to 90.

She plans in the future to hold lectures

about Pilates to explain the technique and its origins for those who are unfamiliar.

Grillon previously ran Studio 90 Pilates at Lenox Fit. She is now also teaching twice a week at Bousquet Sport Fitness and Athletic Club in Pittsfield, and was

able to keep her Lenox clients. She moved to Great Barrington to expand her space and her clientele.

The small number of certified Pilates instructors in the Berkshires, Grillon said, makes for “more business than we can handle, especially in the summer.”

“It’s a good problem,” she added. Echelon’s mat classes range from $20 to $30 a session. Private sessions with use of the reformer — a spring loaded machine with pulleys for resistance — are $100 a session, or $50 if there are two people.

For Grazie, a new site — and vibe

By Sten Spinella

NORTH ADAMS — Welcome to the new Grazie.

After a monthlong hiatus to transition, the restaurant has reopened in a new location — and with a new vision.

Owner and Chef Matt Tatro said that Grazie has secured its liquor license and opened at 310 State St., which formerly hosted The Venue, an event space.

“We rehabbed the takeout window so we can serve takeout to the park there throughout the summer,” Tatro said. “We’re really trying to cater to the neighborhood, the park and the area. It’s a little bit more of a casual feel — we will still have the same food, plus some.”

Tatro bought the building last year, and the move there from Grazie’s longtime spot at Marshall Street is complete. The change was a business decision, as Tatro put it, as he would rather own the building than rent as he had been doing.

The Marshall Street Grazie was been closed for more than a month in order to move everything into the new State Street building.

BAR/RESTAURANT

Grazie is betting on big summers with a takeout business in the back of the building serving the baseball field, skate park, basketball courts, splash pad and the rest of the Noel Field Athletic Complex. That thinking goes toward Grazie’s new business model; Tatro is aiming for something more laid-back.

Though the new restaurant will have 10 fewer seats in the dining room, it will

feature a much larger bar than at the Marshall Street location. Tatro sees Grazie becoming more of a bar/restaurant, rather than restaurant/bar.

“We want to be an elevated bar serving craft cocktails and nice wines and good local draft beers,” he said. “We won’t be open until midnight or 1 a.m.; we’re not looking to be the nightcap in North Adams or compete with other bars down the street. But we’d love to get that after-work crowd. Or dessert and drinks after dinner.”

While Grazie is widely known as a

enjoys,” he said.

place for old-school Italian classics, Tatro said he is expanding the menu. He noted that during COVID, the eatery branched out to reach demographics who didn’t always go for Italian.

“We’ve added a burger, a handful of sandwiches and a lot more appetizers,” Tatro said. “We’re not getting away from the Italian theme, but we’re not married solely to that niche. We’ve added several items on the menu that aren’t Italian but execute well and our local clientele loves and enjoys.”

Some of the specific items Tatro men-

tioned include a spicy Asian long noodle (his take on a lo mein), seared ahi tuna sashimi, nachos and a pulled pork sandwich.

DOWN THE ROAD

While preparing the State Street building, Tatro said there was “every issue imaginable, but we’ve tidied it up quite nicely.” He brought in plumbers, electricians and HVAC technicians. Then there was the matter of the liquor license. Tatro acknowledged he underestimated the work necessary to get the license, despite the fact that Grazie was in good standing and simply moving just down the road.

In addition to a change of location, Tatro also needed to fill out a change of ownership interest, since in the process of moving he acquired the business in its entirety from former business partner David Moresi, a local developer. He first opened the restaurant in 2016.

Moresi told The Eagle that there are plans for the Marshall Street building, which he owns, though he did not say what exactly the plans are.

“More to come in the future, and work is underway at the new space,” he said.

After waiting about a month for the municipal and state liquor license process to play out, Grazie heard from the state that their applications had been approved.

“It’s a good process to make sure people serving liquor should be serving it, but it’s just a touch frustrating when you’re moving a quarter mile down the road,” Tatro said. “We had to wait our turn, but we’re grateful it happened now.”

Precision Brows brings permanent makeup downtown

By M aryjane Willia MS

PITTSFIELD — If you’re sick of doing your eyebrows every morning, look no further.

Precision Brows, a new North Street storefront launched recently by permanent makeup artist Deidre Rosado, offers a specialized eyebrow enhancement — microblading.

“[Mircoblading] is kind of like a tattoo, but it’s more natural,” explained Rosado at her new shop at 644 North St. “It’s like hair strokes mimicking your actual hair strokes, so it doesn’t look like you just have [your eyebrows] colored in.”

Rosado also offers microshading — which is like microblading, but gives a more filled in look — and eyebrow threading, which uses a twisted cotton thread to pluck hairs from the root.

Before opening the studio, Rosado completed a 100-hour microblading and business operation training with Sarah Delaney at Zero To Microblading

and a 200-hour apprenticeship with April Jordan at Rock’n Ink tattoo shop. However, microblading has some distinct differences from traditional tattooing.

“I use pigment instead of ink because the color lasts longer versus regular ink [which] changes color over time,” said Rosado. “And I use a flex blade, not like actual tattoo guns.”

Drawing from her training, Rosado helps clients choose the ideal eyebrow shape and color for their face, but is always open to switching it up based on the client’s preferences.

“But in most cases, it’s based off your bone structure and your reference points that I follow from that,” Rosado said, adding that she picks the color based on the client’s natural hair.

Clients first come in for a consultation to tell Rosado what they are hoping to do with their eyebrows. Then, using a pencil, she maps the shape out, which Rosado explained is “stenciling the pattern that I’m going to do”

BEN GARVER

After more than 300 hours of training, Deidre Rosado has opened Precision Brows at 644 North St., offering microblading and eyebrow threading.

to ensure the client likes the look before starting the treatment.

The results last about oneand-a-half to two years depending on the person’s skin, Rosado said.

Rosado said once she completes her training she will be offering lip blush in the near future. She hopes to continue growing her business and offering more services.

If You Go ..

What: Precision Brows, permanent makeup salon

Where: 644 North St., Pittsfield

Hours: The studio is open Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays until 8 p.m. and Sundays until 6 p.m.

More information: Visit www.myprecisionpmu.com or call 413-553-1059

“Since I was little, really, I’ve always done hair, eyebrows,” said Rosado. “I’ve always been into it.”

Rosado, an upstate New York native, said she enjoys the Pittsfield area so far.

“I got involved with Downtown Pittsfield and they’ve been really helpful,” Rosado said.

Former nurse opens doggie day care

By M aryjane Willia Ms

LEE — Ever since she was a little girl, Alexis Montgomery has been “obsessed” with animals.

“There were all these dog books that my mom got me, and I carried them around so much and read them so much that the bindings fell off and she had to tape them back,” Montgomery said with a laugh.

Throughout middle and high school, Montgomery volunteered at her local humane society, and she first entered college on the pre-veterinary track. However, once her grandmother died, she decided to become a nurse. Montgomery became a registered nurse and worked at Berkshire Medical Center for almost 10 years, but was contemplating a career change.

That’s when she saw a Facebook post that Renee Dodds was selling her doggy day care, Love Us and Leave Us in Lee.

“It was like it was meant to be,” said Montgomery. “I immediately called my Realtor, and I was like, ‘I have to go see if I can see it, because I brought my dog here.’”

Montgomery closed on the 915 Pleasant St. location on Feb. 13, and soft opened her new pet day care business, Hearth and Hound, a few weeks later.

“I’m hoping that it will be a place for the dogs to be safe and have fun and socialize safely … learn different things,” Montgomery said.

Hearth and Hound provides many of the same services as the previous pet business, including dog day care, as well as dog and

cat boarding and grooming. In the future, Montgomery said she plans to host training classes and pet photography sessions.

The overall layout of the facility remains the same — four large play yards, two smaller ones, five cat patios and 20 kennels that came with the building. Montgomery said she did some repairs and gave the inside a fresh coat of paint using dog-friendly colors, including light blue.

During day care, the dogs are separated into groups of 10 to 15 per person based on size and temperament.

Since there are currently three employees, the capacity is set to 20 to 30 dogs.

“Then as we fill up, then I’ll ramp up,” Montgomery said, adding that the business is still in the soft opening stage until May.

Michelle Turner, the manager, has been working with dogs most of her life, and has been training dogs professionally for more than 15 years. Team lead Mackenzie Rathbun was the manager at Shaker Hill Pet Resort and previously worked at Animal Inn, both in Pittsfield.

Each dogs’ day is tailored to them. Outside play time is weather and “dog dependent, so they can go in and out,” Montgomery said.

“We do play time, and then we have a big indoor playroom,” Montgomery said. “So if the

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ...

What: Hearth and Hound

Where: 915 Pleasant St., Lee

The basics: The business can accept up to five cats and 20 dogs for boarding. Customers can pay $50 per day for dog day care or opt for discounted 10-day or five-day packages. Halfdays, which last up to four hours for $30, are also available at any time. Overnight dog boarding is $75 per day and cat boarding is $30 per day, with pick up by 11 a.m.

Hours: Daycare is available anytime between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and boarding is seven days a week.

More info: Visit www.hearthandhoundlee.com or call 413-394-4014

weather is really nice and they want to be outside more, they can be; if it’s cold or rainy, it’s not as much outside time.”

Before signing up, every dog must come in for a half-day evaluation to make sure they are comfortable in groups and do well in day care.

“If they’re not going to enjoy dog day care, then I’m not going to take their money and say, ‘Oh yeah, bring them,’” Montgomery said.

Montgomery puts an emphasis on enrichment activities for the dogs, such as puzzle treats. In honor of national carrot day on Friday, she planned carrot-themed activities throughout the week, including bobbing for homemade carrot-shaped treats.

“It’s really important for dogs to enrich their minds as well as just play,” she said. “It actually extends dogs’ life spans. It’s very healthy for them.”

As a former nurse, Mont-

gomery is committed to infection control.

“We make sure that we use the highest quality cleaning supplies, and every surface is clean,” said Montgomery. “All the dogs are vaccinated. That’s required before they come in.”

The day care also follows Ollie’s Law, a state law enacted in December that requires all dog day cares/boarding facilities and the dogs they house to be licensed. The law, created after a Labrador retriever died at an unregulated boarding facility, establishes safety regulations and requires emergency protocols for dog day cares.

Prior to opening the business, Montgomery completed an online dog day care training course, PackPro, which also taught her how to read dogs’ body language.

“Nursing was really rewarding, and I loved it, but you can’t top playing with puppies all day,” Montgomery said.

New owner to reopen Egremont Barn

By H eat H er Bellow

EGREMONT — The owners of The Egremont Barn live music venue and adjacent Egremont Village Inn are now under contract with a restaurant and hotel entrepreneur who is buying the entire property.

That buyer is Doug Grabe, owner of the Little Pub chain of restaurants throughout Connecticut, as well as The Surfside Hotel in Stratford, Conn.

Grabe said he is still in the inspection and licensing phase of the purchase, and that all that is going “smoothly.” The final purchase price is pending the completion of the inspection, he said.

But his plan to buy and operate both The Barn and the inn is solid, Grabe said. The Barn’s co-founder and co-owner, Jenny Rubin, will continue to book musical and other acts, as well as manage the bar and staff.

The Barn will reopen on May 14 with an open mic night, and has more lineups scheduled on the calendar, including The Wanda Houston Project on May 15.

Opening night will be “almost a barn raising, if you will,” Grabe said. “We’ll make it a nice community event to celebrate the return of the place.”

Also returning are the “same staff and same vibe,” that make the venue shine, Rubin said.

The announcement, which was first reported by the website, Music in the Berkshires, follows the shutdown of The Barn in January due to operating expense struggles in the last few years, and a search since last year for a buyer of the whole property.

Rubin and her husband Nick Keene opened The Barn in 2016, re-envisioning what was once the Robbie Burns Pub until the mid-1980s. Keene’s family had longowned the property and operated the inn.

“I am just really looking forward to the next chapter,” Rubin said, “and I think everyone is really happy in the community too.”

Grabe owns six Little Pub restaurants in Connecticut, including in Greenwich and Stratford. Little Pub’s website calls its menu “Bold, Flavorful Pub Fare,” where “Chef Tim Passaro reinvents classic comfort food with bold flavors and fresh ingredients.”

While The Barn will continue to serve food, Grabe said he is unsure exactly what that menu will look like. To eventually model the offerings on those at Little Pub, The Barn would need a larger kitch-

The Egremont Barn, shown in January 2023, closed in January due to struggles with operating expenses. A new owner, Doug Grabe, is under contract with the owners, and the venue will reopen on May 14.

en and other equipment, he said. He suggested he might also redevelop the kitchen at the inn for a restaurant.

Grabe says he and his team are experienced in hotel management, and will be phasing in upgrades to the Inn’s mechanicals, putting in air conditioning and renovating some bathrooms.

“The inn needs a little work near term,” he said, “and a little bit more work longer term.”

It will “still be a charming New England Inn, but with some more modern amenities,” he said. “It’s a beautiful space.”

Grabe said he plans “wellness programs and retreats,” and will book it out for celebrations and other events, as well as for typical shorter vacation stays.

New hotel eyes June opening

By C larenCe Fanto

LENOX — The 87-room Element Lenox Berkshires, the county’s newest hotel south of Pittsfield, is expected to open in early June for long-term and shortterm travelers.

Construction of the upscale three-story Marriott project on a hillside at 130 Pittsfield Road (Route 7/20) cost north of $30 million. Element is one of Marriott’s 32 hospitality brands.

The new hotel is pet-friendly and includes suites with kitchenettes, an indoor pool, a fitness center and breakfasts.

Posted nightly room rates for mid- and late-July start from $283 to $414, according to the Marriott.com site.

The 13.4 acre property is owned by BBL Lenox Hotel Group LLC and the hotel is managed by BBL Hospitality LLC, based in Albany, N.Y.

The site housed a Holiday Inn built in 1964, later branded as a Quality Inn and an Econolodge before renamed the Magnuson Hotel, which closed in 2017 and was demolished in 2018.

At a public hearing on Wednesday, the Select Board approved innkeeper, entertainment and all-alcoholic licenses for the main floor of the hotel.

“We’re looking forward to more hotel taxes,” said Select Board member Marybeth Mitts, a sentiment echoed by her colleagues.

Most of the town’s annual total of $4 million-plus in free cash is generated by lodging taxes added to guests’ bills.

Attorney Lori Robbins of Heller & Robbins told the board that the hotel will have a lobby pub and outdoor patio for guests, open from 5 p.m. to midnight, and a breakfast area.

It’s not intended to be a bar for nonguests, she said, adding that food will not be available, only snacks. “It will be open to the public, but they’re not marketing the bar to outside patrons,” Robbins noted.

She cited a projected hotel opening date of June 6, and noted that an outdoor dining license request will be forthcoming.

The Lenox Zoning Board of Appeals approved the hotel’s special permit and site plan in December 2022.

Besides the nearly completed hotel, the developer is building 28 residential apartments in seven new three-story buildings.

The two-bedroom units are intended for extended stays of six- to 12 months by visiting business executives; no sublets or Airbnb rentals are allowed.

The property owner has paid the Lenox Affordable Housing Trust $475,000 instead of including two affordable apartments, normally required for a multifamily residential complex of 28 units.

“I’m blessed that I have a great team,” Grabe said. “We’ve done this and this is what we do.”

Overall, Grabe says some of his plans for a place with so much “potential”

will evolve with time and with community input.

“We want to turn it into a cool destination,” he said, “that people will be proud of.”

Serving up healthy, tasty smoothies

By Dylan Thompson

The Berkshire Eagle

ADAMS — Co-owners and partners Martin Davis Jr. and Sasha Solomon have turned their health issues into a positive for the community.

Davis, who has Type 2 diabetes, and Solomon, who has dealt with asthma, have brought their vision of a healthy smoothie shop to life with We Got The Juice. The shop recently opened at 50 Summer St. in Adams.

“A lot of people have developed these diseases, so it’s just trying to figure out a way to help people,” Davis said. “We like to boost immunity in the community.”

For Davis and Solomon, who have been together for 13 years, the location feels just right.

“A lot of other local businesses have been coming in daily to support us,” Solomon said. “It feels like this is where we were supposed to be … I think we were what people were waiting for.”

The couple, who live in Pittsfield, grew tired of a lack of healthy options, igniting the idea for a shop in 2018. The couple first opened We Got The Juice in Springfield during the pandemic in May 2020.

After traveling back and forth from Pittsfield for two years, the couple wanted to find a spot in the Berkshires. Despite receiving a $7,000 grant from Pittsfield, they could not find the right location, they said. Eventually they stumbled across the Summer Street location in Adams.

“I had positive feelings about doing this before we even

opened,” Solomon said. “When we first walked in here and [saw] the space, I kind of had a picture of how it could be.”

Last year, the couple took over the spot that used to house the Corner Lunch. After nearly a

year of renovations, including redoing the kitchen, Davis and Solomon were ready to open and utilize the bigger space.

The difference from their previous shop is that they have a kitchen, allowing the couple

to expand their menu. The food options include acai bowls, salads and protein bowls. They also have smoothies, wellness shots and protein shakes.

The key to the items is that everything used is fresh, coming

from local distributors. When the weather warms up, Solomon will be heading to farms to find more mouth-watering options.

“We don’t work with frozen fruits,” Solomon said. “Sometimes, I may shop local and support other local businesses … I will be trying to get as local as I can.”

The salads are the biggest hit with customers, so far. Coffee Buzz and Berry Blast are also popular smoothies and shakes.

“We had an older woman that said she hadn’t eaten a salad in nine years, but she had our salad and she’s like, ‘It’s the best salad [I’ve] had in a very long time,’” Davis said.

The couple has a strong partnership that is helping their business thrive, they said. Most of the items have been created by Davis and Solomon through trial and error. Although the couple jokes that sometimes they butt heads, they enjoy growing their shop together.

“We’re closer to home,” Solomon said. “I have a lot of family and friends and other business people coming in and supporting us.”

With a growing customer base and summer approaching, Davis and Solomon are expecting business to be booming.

“We’re trying to prepare for it because I feel like we’re going to be busy this summer,” Solomon said. “Some people may not want to go get an ice cream cone or McDonald’s, some people may want to come over here and get an acai bowl or a fresh smoothie.”

The Bookstore celebrates 50 years

By Dylan Thompson

The Berkshire Eagle

LENOX — For Matt Tannenbaum, it’s never been about the money.

Tannenbaum, 79, the longtime owner of The Bookstore & Get Lit Wine Bar in Lenox, recently celebrated the store’s 50th year in business — five decades Tannenbaum has connected with people through his love of books.

“I started it with a loan, and I knew then that I was going to be in debt, and that was OK,” Tannenbaum said. “I wasn’t trying to make money. I found something that I loved to do. … I never wanted to be a rich man, but I’m rich way beyond money.”

On a recent Sunday afternoon, The Bookstore hosted author Pamela Wick for a reading of her new book, “Honestly, She Doesn’t Live Here Anymore.” Tannenbaum and Wick split time reading two chapters of the memoir, followed by a Q&A.

“We have always been a community space,” Tannenbaum said. “We’ve always been a place where people can gather with the books they love and to have authors come. … This is what the people in the town enjoy.”

The packed crowd brought into focus the community Tannenbaum has built. Wick’s book is about her life navigating the charged political landscape of Reagan-era Washington.

It was a book many attendees were already familiar with, though Wick did sell a few books to those that haven’t read it. She gelled with her audience, making them erupt in laughter multiple times.

Matt Tannenbaum, owner of The Bookstore & Get Lit Wine Bar in Lenox, is celebrating 50 years in business. “I have this institutional knowledge and I have this knowledge about literature that I love to [share].” he said.

NO JOKE

Tannenbaum’s nearly half-century bookstore journey began on April Fool’s Day in 1976, when he purchased the store from its founder, David Silverstein.

He didn’t anticipate having such a long run.

“I didn’t give it a thought,” he admitted.

Now he owns one of the last independent bookstores in the area.

“The only thought I had was: I wish I had grown up in this town,” Tannenbaum said.

“Thirty years later, I came walking out of the store one day and I saw a guy who was probably 30 years old and he put his arm

around his child and pointed to me and said, ‘That man that you’re buying your books from, I bought my books from [him] when I was your age.’

“I became the person who I had earlier wanted to be,” he said. “That was a great moment for me when I realized that I was a part of the community.”

As the years went by, he saw generations come and go out of his shop. One of those people was Wick, who befriended Tannenbaum.

“I love being back with Matt,” she said. “It’s like coming home.”

During the pandemic, his strong relationship with the community paid off. Facing a financial cliff, Tannenbaum ran a successful GoFundMe campaign that raised more than $120,000 and kept the store alive.

Five years later, he still expresses his gratitude.

“I’m just thrilled that I’m still here,” Tannenbaum said.

Looking ahead, Tannenbaum has already found his successor. His daughter Shawnee Tannenbaum is set to take over when he is ready to relinquish the reins.

“Her children are working here already,” he said. “At 4 1/2 and 2 1/2 [years old]. [They’re] helping out at the front desk.” However, Matt Tannenbaum is still energized and motivated to continue selling books.

“I get more tired, but I love now being the old guy,” Matt Tannenbaum said. “I have this institutional knowledge and I have this knowledge about literature that I love to [share].”

Sales up, inventory tight in Q1

As we wrap up the first quarter of 2025, the Berkshire County real estate market continues to show strength, particularly in the residential sector, despite national headwinds and tight inventory.

Sanda J. Carroll Real estate

RESIDENTIAL MARKET

EADS THE WAY

Residential home sales are off to a solid start this year, up 9 percent in the number of transactions compared to Q1 2024, totaling 217 sales. More notably, the dollar volume surged 16 percent to just under $103 million — a strong signal that not only are more homes selling, but at higher price points as well. Every region of the Berkshires — north, central, and south — saw growth in both sales and prices. North County led the charge, bouncing back after a slower couple of years. Sales there increased 15 percent, while dollar volume skyrocketed 42 percent,

even surpassing pandemic-era peaks. Central Berkshire posted a 7 percent increase in sales and a 10 percent rise in volume. South County was more modest, but still positive, with a 3 percent bump in transactions and an 8 percent gain in value.

TOTAL REAL ESTATE SALES MIXED, BUT STILL STRONG

When looking across all property types — residential, condo, multifamily, land, and commercial — 320 transactions closed in Q1, a slight 2 percent dip from last year. However, the total dollar volume rose 7 percent, reaching nearly $138 million, marking the strongest Q1 since 2022. While some segments softened, the uptick in value suggests demand remains high, even if fewer properties are trading hands.

INVENTORY REMAINS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE

The post-pandemic frenzy may have cooled, but tight inventory continues to limit options for buyers. There are still more motivated buyers than homes available, particularly in price

ranges under $500,000. Buyers are also more selective now, passing over homes they feel are overpriced or in need of substantial work.

Industry experts point to several factors influencing buyer behavior: higher mortgage rates, inflation, economic uncertainty, and a national housing shortage. The result is a more cautious but still active market, with pricing staying strong where homes are well-positioned.

CONDOS: SALES UP SLIGHTLY, DOLLAR VOLUME DOWN

Condominium sales across the county rose 3 percent overall, but total dollar volume dropped 12 percent. Northern Berkshire stood out with 25 percent more units sold and a 93 percent leap in value, thanks to strong sales in Hancock, North Adams, and Williamstown. Central Berkshire saw a modest retreat after a strong 2024, while Southern Berkshire held steady.

MULTIFAMILY: A COOLED MARKET

After a hot multifamily market in 2024, the first quarter of this year saw a sharp decline.

Countywide, sales dropped 36 percent, and dollar volume was down 21 percent. North and Central Berkshire led the decline. However, Southern Berkshire held its ground in terms of number of sales and saw a 42 percent increase in value. Interestingly, average sale prices of multifamily homes rose across the board, hinting at improving property quality or stronger investor confidence in specific pockets.

LAND: FEWER DEALS, BIGGER NUMBERS

Land sales dropped 12 percent, but the dollar volume surged 57 percent, surpassing $3.5 million. This reflects a trend of larger, more valuable parcels changing hands early in the year, possibly in anticipation of building opportunities. Land purchases often lag during winter months, so the coming seasons will provide better insight. Still, building affordable housing remains tough due to regulatory and cost constraints.

COMMERCIAL: ACTIVITY UP, VALUE DOWN

Commercial real estate had

a mixed start in 2025. While the number of sales rose 13 percent, the total dollar volume fell 20 percent. Nationally, commercial real estate faces challenges, with office vacancy rates peaking around 21 percent. Locally, most commercial transactions are still stable, but the market remains unpredictable. Notably, these figures only reflect open-market sales facilitated through MLS-listed properties.

LOOKING AHEAD

Berkshire County’s real estate market remains fundamentally healthy. The demand is still there — but inventory, affordability, and economic factors will continue to shape the year ahead. If you’re thinking of buying, selling, or investing, now’s the time to have a strategy in place. For a full report on the market with historical data and graphs, please visit BerkshireRealtors.net.

Sandra J. Carroll is the chief executive officer of the Berkshire County Board of Realtors and the Berkshire County Multiple Listing Service.

The safest options to protect your savings

Deciding what to do with your money in periods of economic uncertainty and volatility is difficult. For many, safeguarding savings is the clear priority. Fortunately, there are several options to safely park your cash while enjoying some modest growth opportunities. These include highyield savings accounts (HYSAs), certificates of deposit (CDs), and money market accounts (MMAs). Largely immune to fluctuations in the market and offering predictable returns, they each come with advantages and drawbacks. The best option for you depends on your potential need to access cash and savings goals. Here’s a look at how they work and differ:

HIGH-YIELD SAVINGS ACCOUNTS

HYSAs allow you to maximize the growth of your short-term savings. With higher interest rates higher than traditional savings accounts, they’re ideal for emergency funds or specific savings goals like medical expenses or home down payments.

Advantages

• Security: HYSAs carry FDIC insurance, which protects up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution.

• Competitive interest rates: With the national average above 4% annual percentage yield (APY), HYSAs preserve purchasing power against inflation and ensure your money grows in real terms.

Drawbacks

• Withdrawal Restrictions: Some HYSAs may limit the number of withdrawals or transfers you can make each month. Exceeding these limits can result in fees or restrictions.

• Minimum Balance Requirements: In some cases, HYSAs require a minimum balance to earn the promoted interest rate or avoid monthly fees.

• Fees: Most HYSAs don’t charge monthly fees but almost all charge fees for exceeding withdrawal limits, dipping below the minimum balance, and other transactions.

CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT (CDS)

CDs offer guaranteed interest rates over a fixed term, ranging from three months to five years. CDs are ideal for those saving for specific goals and don’t require immediate access to their money.

Advantages

• Security: CDs carry FDIC insurance, which protects up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution.

• Predictable growth: Fixed rates ensure you know your exact return at maturity.

• Higher rates: CDs often outperform savings and money market accounts, especially for longer terms.

Drawbacks

• Penalties: Regardless of CD term, early withdrawals incur penalties.

• Inflation risk: The downside of fixed returns is that, over the long term, the interest rate may fall below the rate of inflation.

MONEY MARKET ACCOUNTS (MMAS)

Essentially a hybrid savings-checking account, MMAs offer easy access to your cash and an attractive interest rate. However, certain aspects of MMAs limit their usefulness to short-term savings needs or even emergency funds rather than longterm financial planning, like retirement.

Advantages

• Security: MMAs carry FDIC insurance, which protects up to $250,000 per depositor, per institution.

• Easy access to funds: With check-writing and debit card access, MMAs make accessing your money easy. Plus, withdrawal limits are often higher than traditional savings accounts.

• Higher interest rate: MMAs often pay higher interest rates than standard savings accounts.

Drawbacks

• Variable rates: While higher than standard savings accounts, the variable rate of MMAs can change with market conditions. You should always keep an eye on the rates to make sure you are getting the best return on your money. In some cases, interest may not keep pace with inflation.

• Fees: MMAs can come with a range of fees, including monthly maintenance fees, excessive transaction fees, and minimum balance fees.

• Limited monthly transactions: Due to federal rules, the number of withdrawals and transactions is limited to six per month or statement cycle. Exceeding the limit can lead to fees or, if repeated, account closure.

• Minimum deposit: Some financial institutions require a minimum deposit to open an MMA. Often, that deposit level must be maintained or exceeded to avoid fees.

These options are if you’re risk adverse and looking to build your savings with one

of the Berkshires regional institutions. If you are looking to strategically invest your money I recommend meeting with a licensed certified financial planner, who

would develop a personalized investment plan for you for a fee.

Ray E. Smith is the vice president and marketing officer at Pittsfield Cooperative Bank.

The Journal ’s Spotlight

Cameron Brown’s path to becoming Manager of Architectural Services at Hill Engineers, Architects, Planners, Inc began with a legacy of craftsmanship His grandfather, a carpenter for five decades, inspired Cam’s early interest in design.

“I wanted to get a step above,” Cam says, recalling how his grandfather’s passion sparked his own.

Growing up in Dalton and attending Wahconah Regional High School, Cam’s ambition led him to Boston’s Wentworth Institute of Technology, where he studied architecture Over five years, he developed his skills and gained hands-on experience through two college internships both with Hill. One came during his junior year, the second in his senior year, cementing his connection to the firm and leading to a fulltime offer upon graduation.

Cam’s career at Hill has always been a steady rise Starting as an intern drafting plans, he advanced quickly to a designer role Within just two years, he passed all seven exams to become a licensed architect. Now leading the architecture department, Cam oversees a wide variety of projects, drawing on his deep understanding of design and construction.

Cam emphasizes the collaborative spirit at Hill as a cornerstone of the firm’s success With architecture and all major engineering disciplines structural, mechanical, electrical and civil under one roof, the team benefits from streamlined communication and integrated design solutions

“This multidisciplinary setup is a huge advantage,” Cam says “It allows us to work efficiently and produce cohesive designs.” Hill operates primarily within a 100-mile radius of the Berkshires, handling everything from residential homes to complex industrial facilities

Cam believes the firm’s breadth of expertise and teamwork sets it apart in Western Massachusetts

For Cam, his role is more than just a career It’s a continuation of a family tradition, elevated by education, experience and a deep commitment to craft. SPONSORED CONTENT

Berkshire voices

Tariffs, markets and the economy

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard the word “tariffs” thrown around just about everywhere. The media has been covering the tariff moves of Trump and his administration nonstop, and it’s become one of those topics that even pops up in casual conversation.

But don’t worry if you’re still a bit fuzzy on what tariffs actually are or why they matter so much. Until recently, the term wasn’t part of most people’s everyday vocabulary. In fact, Google Trends shows that “tariff” went from relative obscurity in January to peak popularity by early April.

What do we need to know about tariffs? What are they and how will they impact businesses and the economy? And why do they seem to be having such an impact on the stock market? I’ll try to answer these questions as directly as possible, trying to avoid commentary on the validity of tariffs as an economic tool.

WHAT ARE TARIFFS?

Tariffs are essentially taxes imposed on imported goods. To explain how they work and why they matter, let’s look at Nike as an example. Nike, a major American brand, generated over $50 billion in revenue in 2024 and ranks among the top 250 companies worldwide by market capitalization. It’s also a company particularly vulnerable to tariffs.

Roughly half of Nike’s shoes are manufactured in Vietnam, with other significant production coming from countries like Indonesia and China. The main reason? Lower production costs compared to the US.

After shoes are manufactured in Vietnam for Nike, they are imported to the U.S. A tariff is the tax on the value of those imports into the U.S. If Nike imports $100 worth of shoes and the U.S. government imposes a 40 percent tariff, Nike will be required to pay $40 to the U.S. Treasury. That’s a direct cost increase, effectively raising Nike’s production expenses by 40 percent. In this case, tariffs are a tax on Nike.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT

iffs, but moving operations isn’t cheap. They could move manufacturing back to the U.S., but that would likely increase Nike’s costs even more since labor costs would be so much higher in the U.S. as compared to Vietnam.

None of these scenarios are ideal. Nike’s business gets squeezed, U.S. consumers pay more, and the company might even resort to layoffs. And Nike’s not alone—many U.S. companies rely on global supply chains in countries like Vietnam, China, Mexico and Canada.

STOCK MARKET VOLATILITY

We’ve discussed what a tariff is and how it can impact companies and the economy, but why does this all have such a big impact on the stock market? Markets have been especially volatile, swinging wildly as tariff news breaks. A 10 percent drop in the S&P 500 over two days, a 10 percent bounce back a few days later, and then another reversal lower — it’s been a rollercoaster. But this isn’t irrational behavior. As tariff policies shift, so do companies’ outlooks.

A stock’s value is based heavily on current profits and future growth expectations. Tariffs threaten both. If Nike sells fewer shoes because of tariffs, revenue declines. If Nike must pay some of the tariffs out of pocket, margins fall. If the economy is hampered by tariffs, growth expectations fall. All three of these possibilities — lower revenue, compressed margins, and a weakening economy — could have a negative impact on Nike’s share price.

A stock’s value is based heavily on current profits and future growth expectations. Tariffs threaten both.

This added cost doesn’t just hurt Nike—it ripples through the economy. If Nike’s costs are 40 percent higher, they have a few options for how to address these higher costs.

First, Nike might pass some or all of the cost onto consumers. That’s why people worry tariffs could drive inflation. If Nike fully passes the $40 tariff to customers, your $100 shoes suddenly cost $140. Not great for consumers.

A second option is that Nike could choose to absorb part of the cost, lowering its profit margins. Maybe they only raise prices by $20 and eat the rest. That reduction in profits isn’t good for Nike’s business.

Nike’s third option is to relocate their manufacturing to another country. They could choose to move operations to a country with lower tar-

And it’s hard to find a company in the U.S. stock market that won’t be impacted.

Investors are trying to assess the impact on Nike and others as tariffs are implemented, reversed, renegotiated, paused, and then possibly re-implemented. Nike can barely predict what their future might be, and the stock price is likely going to reflect that uncertainty, bouncing around like a rubber ball as tariffs change from day to day.

In conclusion, tariffs are far more than just political talking points. They’re powerful economic levers that can shake up global supply chains, squeeze corporate profits, raise prices for consumers, and inject serious volatility into the stock market. Companies like Nike serve as a clear illustration of how these import taxes can ripple through the economy, forcing tough decisions that can ultimately impact jobs, earnings, and investor confidence.

As long as tariff policies remain uncertain and ever-changing, markets are likely to stay jittery, reacting to each new development with rapid swings. For businesses and investors alike, understanding tariffs is no longer optional.

Luke Delorme is director of financial planning at Tableaux Wealth in Stockbridge.

Youth award nominees lead by example

By H anna H Van Sickle

The 8th annual Berkshire Nonprofit Awards are just around the corner which means nominations have been signed, sealed, and delivered to our volunteer judges.

Since this time last year, a pall of uncertainty has fallen over myriad facets of daily life spanning education and health care to clean energy and food access. While folks of a certain age are responding with anxiety, the next generation is rising up through action.

Across Berkshire County, local youth are acting with intention in the present with hopes of eliciting future change — as evidenced by this year’s Samya Rose Stumo Youth Leadership Award nominees. Rather than dwelling on what lies out of their control, these folks are shining their individual lights and illuminating a collective way forward for those of us brave enough to follow.

Please join me in offering three cheers for these seven service-minded individuals with a combined 30 years of service to local nonprofits — a welcome reminder that optimism is always in season.

Rachael Bentz is passionate about youth suicide prevention. At Arts in Recovery for Youth (AIRY), the skills counselor turned program manager uses their lived experience to increase community among at-risk youth — a group with which they once identified. Despite being challenged by isolation, loss and grief, Rachael has emerged as a mentor and role model for others who feel safe, comfortable, and supported opening up to them.

“Rachael’s creativity, leadership and resilience are remarkable,” says supervisor Marney Schorr, nodding to a young person who has learned to prioritize their own mental health and well being in order to go the extra mile for others.

Autumn Higa takes her work at the People’s Pantry very seriously. Driven by a

Emily is emblematic of the way in which youth can be catalysts for change,” says Isabel Filkins, college counselor, of a student who consistently leads by example.

Isabella Penna-Ward brings a holistic approach to understanding and addressing the intersection of agriculture, community, and the environment. At Roots Rising, the Williams College student’s dedication to positive social change — coupled with determination, kindness and optimism — has impacted myriad arenas since assuming her inaugural role with the nonprofit in 2018.

His ongoing research is building awareness about the importance of arts education and identifying current barriers to — and opportunities for — accessing it. “Max is modeling how research can be a key aspect of activism and how college-aged students can contribute to and shape the field,” says Lisa Donovan, faculty supervisor, underscoring the intern’s significant archive of work.

Harper Treschuk brings a team approach to her work with Greenagers at Many Forks Farm in Clarksburg. This partnership between farmer Molly Comstock and North Adams Public Schools engages school-aged youth in meaningful work that builds confidence and develops life skills.

commitment to addressing food insecurity, the volunteer and board committee member takes initiative and leads by example. She consistently pitches in to do the dirty work others avoid; maintains a clean space to present food to the public; and is a valued member of the team—to whom others often look when making decisions.

“Autumn’s quiet presence is [an excellent reminder to her peers] that someone who speaks softly can have a real voice when others are prepared to listen,” says board President Laura Gratz.

Emily Keiper excels in service to her community. At Miss Hall’s School, she shapes culture as co-head of the Admission Ambassadors and leader of Big and Big, an in-house mentoring program. Beyond campus, Emily is driven by empathy. She’s involved with Buddies Dance Program in Dalton teaching adaptive dance to kids with special needs and Purgatory Road in Pittsfield supporting area residents facing mental health challenges.

“By taking initiative in multiple roles,

“Isabella stands as a living example of the transformative power young individuals possess,” said Executive Director Jess Vecchia, calling the Youth Crew Alumni and current board member’s impact on the Berkshire community “profound and wide-reaching.” Her active role in key decision-making processes and willingness to speak at fundraising events make her an invaluable asset.

Sadiya Quetti-Goodson is a compassionate leader, visionary, and change agent. In 2022, the Howard University student proposed she travel to Ghana with the Rites of Passage and Empowerment (R.O.P.E.) program to document the biannual service learning project. While there, the R.O.P.E. alumna not only captured the scholars’ journey through photos and videos, but she also engaged with children in a local orphanage and taught math classes.

“Sadiya models excellence by using her voice, knowledge, and skills to make a difference in the world,” says Shirley Edgerton, R.O.P.E. founder, of the trailblazer determined to reach her goals.

Max Sweeney’s passion for arts education runs deep. Specifically, the MCLA student is keen on understanding how current political decisions are impacting the field. A recent internship with Berkshire Art Center, at Colegrove Park Elementary School in North Adams, positioned him to support students’ creative work.

“Harper holds students to a high standard, listens well, and is supportive of all,” says Sue Wells, summer coordinator. Wellversed in statistics, the Williams College student proved instrumental in creating systems to streamline data for future use writing grants.

Beyond this big-picture thinking that moves a nonprofit forward, Harper spent her monthlong Winter Study Program volunteering at Drury High School in North Adams. Just prior to press, the 2025 Samya Rose Stumo Youth Leadership honoree was announced.

Congratulations, Rachael Bentz!

“I am extremely honored and proud to receive this recognition and happy that — thanks to more of the population breaking down the stigma against suicide and mental health — there is continued hope for recovery,” says the up-and-coming artist of being seen by their community.

Bentz will receive their award at the 8th Annual Berkshire Nonprofit Awards on May 20 at the Country Club of Pittsfield. Join us for networking, breakfast and a step performance by Youth Alive!

Get ready to be inspired; this year’s honorees will not disappoint.

Hannah Van Sickle is an educator turned freelance writer who works with organizations to fine tune their in-house storytelling in order to take action, meet goals, and stand out.

For Sale By Owner

Connecting with state’s innovation future

Last month I had the pleasure of representing the Berkshires on a panel at an event in Boston hosted by the Massachusetts Competitive Partnership (MACP), a nonprofit, nonpartisan, 501©(4) public policy group comprised of chief executive officers of some of the commonwealth’s largest businesses.

The organization, led by former Secretary of Economic Development Jay Ash, seeks to promote job growth and competitiveness by working in collaboration with public officials and business and civic leaders across the commonwealth.

The event was focused on Entrepreneurial Support Organizations (ESOs) — the incubators, accelerators, and innovation centers that help entrepreneurs turn ideas into companies — and served as an opportunity to release a new report from MACP that makes a strong case that while Massachusetts boasts a wealth of ESOs across all regions, the system supporting them is overdue for modernization and coordination.

The report, “Entrepreneurial Support Organizations in Massachusetts: Assessing Impact and Investing for the Future,” offers a roadmap for how the commonwealth can strengthen its position as a national leader in entrepreneurship. The core message is clear: Massachusetts has the talent and infrastructure to compete — but it needs a more cohesive, well-funded strategy to support the organizations working with startups every day.

For the Berkshires, this is a moment of opportunity. Not only are we part of this broader network, we’re helping to shape what it could become.

A FRAGMENTED BUT POWERFUL NETWORK

From Cambridge to Worcester, New Bedford to North Adams, ESOs are doing vital work — often with limited resources. These organizations serve as first responders for entrepreneurs, offering space, mentorship, technical support, and access to funding and markets. That said, MACP noted that the commonwealth’s support for these organizations is inconsistent, siloed and difficult to navigate.

Other states are moving faster. New York’s NYSTAR initiative provides certified ESOs with consistent funding and recognition. Michigan has created “SmartZones” that cluster ESOs around

regional strengths, distributing millions in support. Kansas and Ohio have taken similar steps. By contrast, Massachusetts relies on a patchwork of programs that vary in focus and accessibility.

The risk isn’t theoretical. States with coordinated ESO networks are winning the race to attract startups, investors, and talent. Massachusetts, despite its many advantages, is losing ground.

INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE — AND IN COMMUNITY

MACP recommends that Massachusetts commit $200 million over the next decade to create a coordinated ESO network. The proposal includes

operational funding, infrastructure investment, and a centralized platform for entrepreneurs and support organizations to connect.

This is not just a policy fix — it’s a strategy for inclusive economic development. Stronger ESOs mean more companies, more jobs, and more innovation reaching the market. And it means communities like ours have a reliable pipeline for accessing the state’s resources and contributing to its success.

THE BIC’S ROLE IN THE BROADER ECOSYSTEM

Here in Berkshire County, the Berkshire Innovation Center serves as a regional ESO supporting startups and entrepreneurs, and partnering with a local ecosystem of organizations serving various small businesses in our region. BIC is primarily focused on advanced manufacturing and technology focused businesses, but every year we find ourselves serving more and more industries and reaching startups further from our primary location in Pittsfield.

Critically, the BIC is more than simply a local initiative — it’s a participant in the commonwealth’s broader innovation network. We collaborated constantly with quasi state agencies such as the Mass Tech Collaborative, the Mass Clean Energy Center, and the Mass Life Sciences Center, and through those agencies we have developed strong ties with incubators and innovation centers all across the commonwealth.

These bonds with other incubators and accelerators, however, are informal and almost entirely reliant on personal relationships we have built over the years. The MACP report envisions a far more coordinated and interconnected role for ESOs across all of Massachusetts. The idea is not to elevate a few

Rules must evolve as industry grows

Let’s say the quiet part out loud: Massachusetts cannabis regulation is at an inflection point. The Cannabis Control Commission, like the larger legislative apparatus around it, is being asked to evolve in ways that match the complexity and maturity of the market it governs.

That’s not an easy task. But for those of us operating on the ground, particularly the smaller, independent, or community-owned businesses, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

We see the CCC requesting studies. The Legislature introduced bills. Policy is being shaped at the margins. And while this work matters, what’s often missing is urgency. The hard truth is that many businesses are running out of time. Deliberate governance is essential, but when it comes at the cost of basic operability, it risks leaving behind the very stakeholders this industry was built to empower.

In practice, that looks like this: entrepreneurs navigating shifting regulations, opaque enforcement, and market conditions they’re structurally unprepared for. The result? Businesses, many of them family-run or funded by close-knit communities versus venture capital or traditional funding methods, are being squeezed between inconsistent oversight and brutal economic headwinds.

We should acknowledge the original vision of equity and access embedded in Massachusetts cannabis policy. But we also have to confront the present reality: the Economic Empowerment program hasn’t delivered on its promise. Today, far too many small operators are suffering not only at the hands of market forces but under a regulatory system that wasn’t built to scale or adjust as the industry matured.

This is especially clear when it comes to the basics of doing business. Take advertising: Operators are still being cited for using terms like “bargain” or “bundle.” Commonplace language in virtually every other retail sector becomes a compliance landmine in cannabis. Worse, these rules often change without warning or consistent guidance.

That kind of ambiguity doesn’t promote public health or safety. Instead, it creates fear and dysfunction. It forces operators to either play it impossibly safe or risk citations for doing the exact same thing they did last month. No other regulated industry is expected to navigate this level of shifting ground.

Licensing fees are another flashpoint. At Canna Provisions, we recently tran-

Sosne

FROM PAGE 15

flagship organizations, but to knit them together into a network where each plays a role based on its unique assets. That’s how we ensure that the next generation of successful companies comes not just from Boston or Cambridge, but from Springfield, Lowell, Fall River — and Pittsfield.

EQUITY, ACCESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Beyond funding and structure, MACP calls for a cultural shift. ESOs should be recognized and celebrated for the critical work they do, and entrepreneurs across all regions and backgrounds should have clear, equitable access to their support.

This is especially relevant in rural regions like ours. The BIC — and other ESOs in Western Massachusetts — serve entrepreneurs who might otherwise be overlooked by traditional venture ecosystems. With better coordination and investment, these organizations can help ensure that the innovation economy reaches every corner of the commonwealth.

sitioned to an ESOP, a worker-owned company, because we believe in building long-term wealth and opportunity for our team. We handed this business over to 75 employees, many of whom come from diverse backgrounds and have deep roots in the communities we serve.

But despite this ownership structure, we’re still charged licensing fees as though we’re a massive multistate operator. There’s no pathway in the current regulations that recognizes or rewards employee ownership models. If Massachusetts wants to support equitable business models in cannabis, that needs to change.

A policy shift to waive or reduce licensing fees for ESOPs is both logical and fair. These are not extractive entities. They’re built to reinvest, to stabilize, to create durable jobs. The state should be encouraging this, not treating ESOPs like corporate giants.

And it goes further. ESOPs should be eligible for medical licenses. They should be part of the patient care ecosystem, not excluded from it. The medical program itself desperately needs simplification; patients and providers alike are burdened by systems that have grown overly complex and out of sync with their original intent.

There are other fixes that could make a difference quickly, without sacrificing the values that underpin cannabis regulation:

• Raise daily purchasing limits to match states like New York and others in our region. Consumers shouldn’t be pe-

A PATH FORWARD

The MACP recommendations offer a blueprint, but they will require political will and public-private collaboration to implement. There is a lot of potential, but there needs to be a statewide agency or organization that acts as the hub for the ESOs and helps to bridge and coordinate. If the right organization is identified, and the existing ESOs are brought together in a thoughtful and meaningful way, this new network could make Massachusetts more competitive, more inclusive, and better prepared to support entrepreneurs wherever they are.

FINAL THOUGHT

The Berkshires has long been seen as outside the state’s major innovation corridors. But that perception is changing — and it should. With organizations like the BIC serving as regional nodes in a larger system, our community is not just included in the conversation about economic development — it’s helping to lead it. As state leaders consider how to build the next generation of startup infrastructure, they would do well to look west — to see what’s already working, and to invest in building on that momentum.

Ben Sosne is executive director of the Berkshire Innovation Center.

nalized for shopping local. This is a true win-win that will increase tax revenue as well as helping cannabis businesses.

• Adopt a “one badge per person” model to simplify workforce compliance while maintaining safety standards.

• Evaluate excise tax structures for businesses like ESOPs that serve broader economic development goals. (We’re still exploring this, but it’s a worthy policy conversation.)

None of these ideas are radical. They’re rooted in what the industry needs to function. Namely: fairness, clarity, adaptability. And they reflect what Massachusetts cannabis is becoming: more sophisticated, more diverse, and more aligned with the long-term health

of the communities it operates in.

One area that deserves more attention, especially from regulators and lawmakers, is the way businesses are starting to explore new digital tools like AI platforms, GPT-based systems, and other automation technologies. These innovations aren’t just buzzwords. They’re becoming critical to operational efficiency, customer education, and regulatory compliance.

At Canna Provisions, we’re actively learning about how these tools can streamline everything from training to inventory to community engagement.

But we’re also aware that many operators don’t have the bandwidth or the guidance to explore these options confidently.

This is an opportunity for the CCC and policymakers to lead. By providing clear frameworks or pilot programs for ethical, compliant AI use in cannabis, Massachusetts can once again be a national leader in forward-thinking governance.

The core idea here is simple: the industry has grown up. It’s not a novelty anymore. It’s a complex, job-creating, community-embedded sector. And the rules need to evolve to reflect that.

That means moving beyond rigid control into responsive, evidence-based policy. It means balancing safety with sustainability. And it means honoring the vision of equity by actually supporting the models, like ESOPs, that embody it.

We don’t need fewer rules. We need better ones. Smarter, clearer, fairer. Because this isn’t just about saving struggling businesses. It’s about unlocking the full potential of an industry that’s already proven it can deliver. Especially when it’s given the chance to breathe.

Meg Sanders is co-founder and CEO of Canna Provisions.

Real estate transactions

Real estate transactions from March 3-28

ADAMS

David and Chelsea Alex Shekailo sold property at 216 West Road, Adams, to Madelyne and Taylor Kowalczyk, $390,000.

Benjamin Acquista and Nancy E. Pedercini-Acquista sold property at 8 East St., Adams, to Bradley W. and David Vincent Trowbridge, $419,000.

Mark Czubryt, personal rep. of Gladys A. Czubryt, sold property at 20 Victory St., Adams, to D & B Real Estate Ventures LLC, $80,000.

Carol A. Roberts, trustee of the Roberts Family NT, sold property at 20 South Willow St., Adams, to Robert Turoczy III, $125,000.

Kimberly A. Miller sold property at 307 East Road, Adams, to Jacob K. and Bonnie Lyn Robison, $150,000.

Robin F. Sigsbury sold property at 11 Ruel St., Adams, to Adam W. O’Neil, $285,000.

Jacob R. Speed sold property at 37½ Miller St., Adams, to Michael and Samantha Leskovitz, $153,000.

Bonnie L. Gardner sold property at 16 West Mountain Road, Adams, to Deborah Mekdeci to William J. Gardner Sr., $120,000.

BECKET

PHH Mortgage Corp. sold property at 71 Pine Dale Circle, Becket, to Kylie R. Lucia, $99,900.

Michelle L. Gionfriddo, trustee, Brenda L. King Testamentary Trust, sold property at 3039 Jacobs Ladder Road, Becket, to Nicholas A. Fillio, $350,000.

Melanie A. Bessette sold property at Pill Drive, Becket, to Community LD LLC, $5,500.

Benton and Danielle Egee sold property at 141 Beech Tree Lane, Becket, to Heather and Clayton Bushong, $530,000.

CHESHIRE

Western Mass Construction LLC sold property at 1008 North State Road, Cheshire, to Dakota C. Bolte and Lauren E. Holmes, $290,000.

John Chaves sold property at 147 East Harbor Road, Cheshire, to Marissa Kirchner, $397,000.

DALTON

Lewis N. Runaldue sold property at 1 Broadview Terrace, Dalton, to April Jean Bertelli, $137,450.

Jessica L. Keavney, personal rep. of the Estate of Jonathan Dewey Runaldue, sold property at 1 Broadview Terrace, Dalton, to April Jean Bertelli, $137,450.

Andrew Yang and Min Ji Lee sold property at 720 Old Windsor Road, Dalton, to Ernest J. and Naomi Hoki Moniz, trustees, Ernest J. Moniz 2018 Trust, and Ernest J. and Naomi Hoki Moniz, trustees, Naomi Hoki Moniz 2018 Trust, $662,000.

Emmanuel Amoako sold property at 1047 South St., Dalton, to Ste-

phen Peltier and Abigail Wellspeak, $232,000.

Leslie Lewis sold property at 125 River Birch Lane, Dalton, to Susan B. Lipton, $650,000.

William L. Klein sold property at 115 High St., Dalton, to Margaret D. Bear and Eric Pleace, $274,900.

EGREMONT

Westward Properties LLC sold property at 9 East Baldwin Hill Road, Egremont, to GB Holdings LLC, $1,100,000.

Thomas P. Murray and Holly J. Murray sold property at 15 Partridge Drive, Egremont, to Kenneth R. Landau and Stephanie J. Landau, $1,049,000.

FLORIDA

Blue Bear Mountain LLC sold property at 23 South County Road, Florida, to Dane and Colleen Gibeau, $75,000.

GREAT BARRINGTON

Estate of Bruce W. Castino sold property at 24 North St., Great Barrington, to Benedi Realty LLC, $350,000.

Martin B. Albert and Anne M. Johnston-Albert sold property at 3 Berkshire Heights Road, Great Barrington, to Jack A. Davenport and Michelle M. Gomez, $2,050,000.

Jeffrey Taylor sold property at 97 Alford Road, Great Barrington, to Naomi Blumenthal and Ronald Blumenthal, co-trustees of Quality Time Remaining N Revocable Trust, $450,000.

Winnie M. Chen sold property at 273 State Road, Great Barrington, to Nora Cromwell, $460,000.

Donald O. Platt sold property at 80 Taconic Ave., Unit 10, Great Barrington, to Joseph O. Cooney and Jessie M. Cooney, $630,000.

Brian R. Foster and Amy L. Foster sold property at 33 Grove St.,

Great Barrington, to Yee Woo Guo and Amy Joyce, $655,000.

Dara M. Jenssen sold property at 49 Pine St., Great Barrington, to Edwin A. Escobar and Mary I. Berrio, $630,000.

KDD LLC sold property at 5 George St., Great Barrington, to BB&H Holding LLC, $100,000.

HANCOCK

Citizens Bank N.A sold property at 88 Birch Grove Road, Hancock, to Taylor Bartlett, $130,000.

Joseph V. and Elise A. Stillo sold property at 9341 Mountainside Drive, Hancock, to Michael and Nicole Ramian, $639,000.

Brenda Durant sold property at Corey Road, Hancock, to Angela and Matthew Cherry, $299,900.

HINSDALE

Eric T. Carlson and Dawn M. Avalle sold property at 48 Jordan Ave., Hinsdale, to Kelly J. Grenier, $264,900.

David A. Jewell sold property at 26 Cove Lane, Hinsdale, to Bartholomew J. Collins and Amy B. Fox, $2,000.

LANESBOROUGH

Paul W. Swallow and Kathryn A. McGinn sold property at Silver Street and Old Ore Bed Road, Lanesborough, to Adam Spindler, $77,500.

Michael F. McNeil sold property at 580 South Main St., Unit 9, Building 4, Lanesborough, to Heather Herman, $146,000.

Mark A. Massaconi sold property at 38 Victoria Lane, Lanesborough, to Daniel W. Stephenson and Sandra C. Wheeler, $315,000.

Andrew and Rebecca Carlson sold property at 61 Old Orebed Road, Lanesborough, to Marion Hollingsworth Rutledge, $360,000.

Revocable Living Trust, $1,079,310.

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts Foundation Inc. sold property at 376 Church St., North Adams, to Lyla and Rikki Rozelle, $340,000.

Patricia Leary, individually and as personal rep. of Albert Arthur Harvey Jr., sold property at 227 Protection Ave., North Adams, to E & D Landscaping & Construction Inc., $175,750.

Peggy L. Schiffer sold property at 243 Union St, Unit 301, North Adams, to Isabel Twanmo, $428,000. Guy R. Cariddi sold property at 1608 Massachusetts Ave., North Adams, to First Landing Investments LLC, $41,000.

First Landing Investments LLC sold property at 1608 Massachusetts Ave., North Adams, to Donald W. Beall, $55,000.

Geegcq Wiles and Jenna M. St. Pierre sold property at 68 Gallup St., North Adams, to Lynn White Cloud, $297,500.

Sherri Tracey and Heather Regan sold property at 134 Glen Ave., North Adams, to Megan M. Karlen and Jacqueline Moran, $415,000.

OTIS

LEE

Laurel Lake Water Power LLC sold property at 407 Laurel St., Lee, to Laurel Lake Dam Inc., $40,000.

John T. Donovan Jr. sold property at East Street, Lee, to Brian T. Garrity, $175,000.

Constance Marie Gallego and Margarita Borrero Marquez sold property at 236 Washington Mountain Road, Lee, to Claire P. and David K. Wurmfeld, $375,000.

LENOX

7-9 Brandon Ave. LLC sold property at 7 Crystal St., Lenox, to JDRF Properties LLC, $360,000.

Helmuth Scharf sold property at 10 Meadow Lane, Lenox, to Andy McMeekin and Robert Joy Jr., $235,000.

Art First Lenox LLC sold property at 22 Walker St., Lenox, to CACLBPropertiescq LLC, $1,154,500.

NEW MARLBOROUGH

John K. Edelman, individually and as trustee of Vera Edelman Trust, sold property at 18 East Hill Road, New Marlborough, to Kevin S. Honeycutt, trustee of Kevin S. Honeycutt Trust, $475,000. Green Foundation sold property at 1277 Hartsville-Mill River Road, New Marlborough, to Lydia L. Merkel and Elan Merkel, $1,565,000.

Phyllis Bean and Ellen R. Lumpkin sold property at Norfolk Road and Hotchkiss Road, New Marlborough, to Gino Furio, $5,000.

Peter S. Vallianos and Evelyn D. Vallianos sold property at Hotchkiss Road, New Marlborough, to Gino Furio, $20,000.

NORTH ADAMS

Greylock Works West LLC sold property at 520 State Road, Unit 305, North Adams, to Ruth K. Wade, trustee of the Ruth Wade

Armando Paez sold property at Brookman Drive, Otis, to Michael J. and Emily E. Gould, $52,500.

PERU

Charles D. Goyette sold property at 29 North Road, Peru, to Jennifer Erin Toll and Christine Roberta Handte, $350,000.

Charles D. Goyette sold property at North Road, Peru, to Jennifer Erin Toll and Christine Roberta Handte, $22,500.

Paul A. and Colleen M. LaRochelle sold property at 41 South Road Extension, Peru, to Paul A. Petersoli Jr. and Laura A. Petersoli, $415,000.

PITTSFIELD

Bert A. Gaylord, personal rep. of the Estate of James V. Renzi, sold property at 50 Easton Ave., Pittsfield, to TMR Realty LLC, $164,000.

Michael Mazzeo sold property at 416 Tyler St., Pittsfield, to N2 LLC, $450,000.

Taylor Bartlett sold property at 1171 North St. and North Street, Pittsfield, to TR Investments LLC, $52,500.

Cross Development Berkshires LLC sold property at 41 Cherry St., Pittsfield, to Jasti MA Investments LLC, $270,000.

Cross Development Berkshires LLC sold property at 43-45 Cherry St., Pittsfield, to Jasti MA Investments LLC, $180,000.

Michelle Bartels, personal rep. of the Estate of Michael Anthony Wojtkowski, and Debra A. Wojtkowski sold property at 444 Pecks Road, Pittsfield, to Michael Martino and Jonathan Griffin, trustees, 444 Pecks Road NT, $200,000.

U.S. Bank Trust NA, trustee, sold property at 129-131 Newell St., Pittsfield, to Joseph Mensah-Otoo, $178,319.

Real estate

Kathleen D. Hurley sold property at Faucett Lane, Pittsfield, to Maria D. Liccardi, $60,000.

James and Shelly Schwarz sold property at 73 Howe Road, Pittsfield, to Peter and Prinsla Baffoe-Bonnie, $435,000.

Patricia Decker sold property at 13 Cherry Hill Drive, Pittsfield, to Donald F. Cingrani, $625,500.

Kristine Mary and Lawrence Stephen Hazzard sold property at 26 Overlook Road, Pittsfield, to Kendra L. Macleod, $370,250.

Bartola I. Bernabel sold property at 39-41 Maplewood Ave., Pittsfield, to Clinical & Support Options Inc., $400,000.

Dominic A. and Katharine A. Cimini sold property at 100 Broadview Terrace, Pittsfield, to Eric Buhl, $310,000.

Kimberlee Olson and Oral Willis sold property at 283-285 Francis Ave., Pittsfield, to Nathan J. Mosher and Katrina Carstarphen, $255,000.

Christine A. and Jonathan B. Grenoble sold property at 78 Leona Drive, Pittsfield, to Zachary and Jamie Carpenter, $520,000.

BPM 1120 Churchill LLC sold property at 1120 Churchill St., Pittsfield, to Richard S. and Caryn E. Wendling, $900,000.

Arthur L. Knights and Michelle M. Kaiser sold property at 147 Longview Terrace, Pittsfield, to Arthur Knights Jr. and Arabelle Knights, $280,000.

Magdalena De Jesus Larios-Reyes and Jose J. Bonilla Larios sold property at 6668 North Pearl St., Pittsfield, to Yuri Mejia and Magaly Lopez, $301,000.

Pittsfield Cooperative Bank and Stanley B. and Irene M. Clark, sold property at 114-116 Danforth Ave., Pittsfield, to Wicked Deals LLC, $61,000.

Timothy C. Conrow sold property at 89 Oak Hill Road, Pittsfield, to Kathleen Fitzgibbons, $320,000.

Sandra L. Blessing sold property at 292 Connecticut Ave., Pittsfield, to Robert A. Blessing, $195,000.

Rebecca L. Kushi sold property at 52 Bossidy Drive, Pittsfield, to House Hack Helpers LLC, $123,000.

Diane B. Gerrish sold property at 60 Whittier Ave., Pittsfield, to Robert J. and Ashley Davis, $286,875.

Susan B. Lipton sold property at 1136 Barker Road, Pittsfield, to Esther A. Zaretsky, trustee, Zaretsky Children Inter Vivos Trust, $645,000.

U.S. Bank Trust NA and William W. and Blondean B. Hibbler sold property at 167

Daniels Ave., Pittsfield, to U.S. Bank Trust NA, $77,050.01.

Mohammed A. Rashed sold property at 104 Linden St., Pittsfield, to LND Investments LLC, $115,000.

Mohammed Rashed sold property at 21 Pacific St., Pittsfield, to LND Investments LLC, $120,000.

Roderick S. Stanbrook and Ulrike Nagel sold property at Dewey Avenue, Pittsfield, to Westside Legends Inc., $10,000.

Victor P. and Danielle E. Samuel sold property at Pondview Drive, Pittsfield, to Jacqueline Bianco, $234,000.

Cavalier Livingston LLC sold property at 257265 East St. and 7-13 Second St., Pittsfield, to Berkshire East Property LLC and One Berkshire East Property, $3,150,000.

Arthur L. Corriveau III sold property at 15 Winesap Road, Pittsfield, to Timothy E. and Kathleen A. Tomasi, $427,000.

Carlisle and Stacy Fletcher sold property at 106 Robbins Ave., Pittsfield, to D-Juan E. Black, $145,000.

Old Williamstown Realty LLC sold property at 54 Mervyn St., Pittsfield, to Stephanie A. Vallone, trustee, Frank J. Vallone Jr. 2022 FT, $50,000.

Charles A. Shaw sold property at 94 Third St., Pittsfield, to Matthew G. Shaw and Sarah Deschamps, $70,000.

Jordan and Breanna L. Wilcox sold property at 295 Elm St., Pittsfield, to Maurice Lewis Jr. and Courtney Alexis Vance, $304,900.

Sharon A. and Suzan S. Kaitz, trustees, Berks 33 RT, sold property at 1136 Barker Road, Pittsfield, to Martin L. and Jennifer M. Schmelkin, $807,000.

Juliana Young, Leslie Cancilla, Lauren Cancilla Ryan, trustees, Ann Drive 139 RT, sold property at 139 Ann Drive, Pittsfield, to Brittany G. Slater and Ryan P. Keegan, $530,000.

Marcio Jaoa Da Silva and Carlos Eduardo Rigonato sold property at 3-5 Cherry St., Pittsfield, to Lucas Senegaglia, $292,000.

Christopher Clemons sold property at 74 Watson St., Pittsfield, to Noelle R. Butler, $247,000.

Thomas J. Garlington sold property at 29 Fairfield St., Pittsfield, to Maura J. Perry, $255,000.

Centura Bay LLC sold property at 18 Beaumont Drive, Pittsfield, to Kathleen Maroney and Linda L. Merry, $234,000.

Thomas E. Hedrick Jr., Kathleen T. Meehan and Mary Ellen DiNicola sold property at 73 Atmer Ave., Pittsfield, to Leah Deane, $365,000.

Danielle Bea Myers sold property at 32 Brunswick St., Pittsfield, to David and Anne Sutherland, $654,000.

David and Pamela Diederich sold property at 54 Churchill Crest, Pittsfield, to Dolores C. Fleischut, $225,000.

Harris N. Aaronson, trustee, Branch Street Nominee RT, sold property at 10-12 Branch St., Pittsfield, to MEA Rentals LLC, $245,000.

Kara M. Graziola sold property at 11 Adelaide Ave., Pittsfield, to Amanda Marie Coleman, $255,000.

Mary R. Mercuri sold property at 139 Gamwell Ave., Pittsfield, to Timothy W. Adams, $249,000.

Matthew C. and Kathryn B. DeWolf, trustees, DeWolf Family 2022 Trust, sold property at 6 Lori Court, Pittsfield, to William Joseff Filiault, $715,000.

Jacob Chaney Hines sold property at 50 Hungerford St., Pittsfield, to Edward and Jo Ann Averill-Snell, $317,000.

RICHMOND

Erick T. and Alejandro D. Bartlett sold property at East Slope Road, Richmond, to Taylor Bartlett, $65,000.

Jeremiah and Christa Ames sold property at East Slope Road, Richmond, to Gabrielle Emery, $60,000.

SANDISFIELD

Nicolas McKee and Dana L. Bledsoe sold property at 147 New Hartford Road, Sandisfield, to Jonathan Glazer and Hadley Leach, $2,050,000.

Gary Johnson and Marilyn Johnson sold property at Hammertown Road, Sandisfield, to Alex Horowitz and Christina Chan, $50,000.

SHEFFIELD

Nicholas J. Pshenishny, Lauri A. Pshenishny, Gary A. Pshenishny, and Linda A. Pshenishny sold property at 159 Berkshire School Road, Sheffield, to Nicholas J. Pshenishny and Laurie Pshenishny, $360,379.

Victoria L. Mercer sold property at 689 North Main St., Sheffield, to Art First Lenox LLC, $210,000.

Marianne H. Sidey, Jessica Velmans and Hester A. Cherneff sold property at Bow Wow Road, Sheffield, to Andrew D. Levin and William B. Levin, trustees of 570 Bow Wow Road Family Nominee Trust, $180,000.

STOCKBRIDGE

Irene Bernstein-Pechmeze sold property at 57 Main St., Stockbridge, to Charles R. Gillett, $350,000.

AIS Properties LLC sold property at 8 Bean Hill Road, Stockbridge, to Mark and Joshua H. Nemery, $1,550,000.

Charles A. and Maryann Blaine sold property at 46 Prospect Hill Road and Mahkeenac Road, Stockbridge, to Kent Higgins, $225,000.

TYRINGHAM

Richard A. Rapaport and Webster Road Property LLC sold property at Webster Road, Tyringham, to Berkshire Natural Resources Council Inc., $650,000.

WASHINGTON

Nancy B. Hebard sold property at 160 Simmons Road, Washington, to Eyal Shapira, $175,000.

Howard Clark and Pauline Combe-Clark sold property at 788 Summit Hill Road and Summit Hill Road, Washington, to Thomas Hoffman, $230,000.

WILLIAMSTOWN

Madelyne Kowalczyk sold property at 162 North Hoosac Road, Williamstown, to Huntley L. McNabb, $362,000.

Joel and Sharon A. Hellman sold property at 204 Cole Ave., Williamstown, to Aram J. and Julia E. Keosaian, $420,000.

Kevin P. and Sandralee M. Hamel, trustees of Kpamel RT, sold property at 800 Simonds Road, Williamstown, to ESP Realty Holdings LLC, $260,000.

Allen Lee and Valerie Punchello Hall sold property at 33 Stratton Road, Williamstown, to Taghi S. and Bridget O. Ryder, $447,000. 160 Water LLC sold property at 160 Water St., Unit 213, Williamstown, to Beverly Mitchell and Michael Corris, $775,000.

Patricia A. Leach, trustee of the Patricia A. Leach RVT, sold property at 28 Prospect St., Williamstown, to John and Andrea Dupras, $686,460.

Douglas V. and Bonnie H. Herr sold property at 197 Chestnut St., Williamstown, to Alexander B. and Jennifer L. Lees, $1,730,000.

Heath J. and Kristin M. Isaacson sold property at 231 South Hemlock Lane, Williamstown, to Michael Francis Wagner and Laura Alice Rice, trustees of the Michael Francis Wagner and Laura Alice Rice RVT Agreement, $330,000.

Jennifer Moser, Michael and Robert Chwasky sold property at 418 North Hemlock Lane, Williamstown, to Roger and Patricia J. Gould, $369,000.

Stephen D. and Laureen Majetich sold property at 41 Lee Terrace, Williamstown, to Robert and Jennifer Van Dore, $749,000.

FT — Family Trust LLC — Limited Partnership

LT — Life Trust

NT — Nominee Trust

RET — Real Estate Trust

RT — Realty Trust RVT — Revocable Trust

The real estate transactions are provided by the Middle Berkshire, North Berkshire and South Berkshire Registry of Deeds offices.

People in the Berkshires

Berkshire Health Systems has appointed Brenda Cadorette as chief nursing executive, overseeing nursing across the organization.

Cadorette, MSN RN, NEA-BC, has served as vice president of acute care and BMC chief nursing officer for the past 11 years.

“Brenda has been an exceptional nurse leader at Berkshire Medical Center for decades,” said BHS President and CEO Darlene Rodowicz.

“This new nursing leadership structure will support the alignment of best practice nursing standards and ensure that professional practice, growth, and development are consistent across the organization.”

In her new role, Cadorette will focus on creating shared governance for nursing and ensuring that nursing practice and staff development promote patient safety and patient-centered care.

Working in tandem with Cadorette, each BHS hospital will also appoint an associate chief nursing officer to focus on the hospital’s operations and lead each hospital’s nursing team.

Cadorette, who joined BHS in 1995 as a nursing assistant, has previously served as a clinical supervisor, nursing director, administrative director of nursing operations, service line administrator of nursing, and other leadership roles.

MountainOne has appointed Brenda Petell vice president, community engagement officer.

In this role, Petell leads MountainOne’s community engagement efforts across the Berkshires and South Shore, strengthening partnerships, advancing philanthropic initiatives and furthering MountainOne’s long-standing commitment to the communities it serves.

Most recently, Petell served as director of volunteer engagement at Berkshire United Way. With a background in finance, people operations and process improvement, her insights will be key in modernizing process and enhancing MountainOne’s community engagement initiatives.

Petell is poised to be named the 2025 recipient of the Girls Inc. of the Berkshires’ She Knows Where She’s Going Award. This recognition honors her ongoing work as an outstanding local female leader who serves as a role model for young women.

Included in her responsibilities, Petell will oversee MountainOne’s Community Dividend Program, coordinate corporate giving, and ensure that MountainOne’s support aligns with initiatives that reflect the company’s mission. She will also lead employee volunteer efforts, financial literacy programs and MountainOne’s storybook programming.

Headquartered in North Adams, MountainOne is the mutual holding company of MountainOne Bank, MountainOne Insurance and MountainOne Investments.

Molari Employment and HealthCare Services has named Rory Baker as its new administrative coordinator.

In this role, Baker serves as the first point of contact for applicants, screening candidates and scheduling interviews for the agency’s employment and health care divisions. Baker’s approachable nature and genuine interest in people make him a natural at putting candidates at ease as they prepare for their interviews. With a background in office admin-

istration, Baker ensures that daily operations run smoothly and efficiently behind the scenes. His keen attention to detail and commitment to service help Molari provide support to both clients and job seekers.

He is dedicated to matching the right candidates with each client’s unique needs and assisting individuals in achieving their career goals.

A trained singer and guitarist, Baker attended Berklee College of Music, where he honed his creative talents.

Founded in 1983, Molari specializes in staffing services, connecting job seekers with employment opportunities across various industries. In addition, Molari provides private and contract in-home health care services and offers health care staffing for area facilities.

For information, visit molariinc.com or call 413-499-4546.

Greylock Federal Credit Union has promoted Chris Barry of Lee to vice president, business banking officer II.

In his new role, Barry will service existing and new business members, work on business development, originate and underwrite commercial loans, and help to create and manage new products, services and classes to serve the community.

Barry began his career with Greylock as a commercial credit analyst in 2006. Beyond his professional role, Barry serves on the board of directors for the Berkshire Family YMCA, volunteers with the Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll) initiative, and is actively involved with Berkshire Agricultural Ventures.

Jewish Federation of the Berkshires has appointed Rebekah Steinfeld as its new senior development officer.

With extensive nonprofit experience and a passion for building strong community connections, Steinfeld will play a key role in advancing the federation’s mission. She will collaborate closely with the federation’s executive director and board of directors to enhance the organization’s annual campaign and major gifts program. She will focus on cultivating and strengthening relationships with donors while overseeing strategic giving initiatives aimed at securing long-term financial support for the federation’s programs and services.

Steinfeld joins the federation after more than a decade at UMass Amherst Hillel, where she served as assistant director and was instrumental in transforming student engagement. She spearheaded the development of a comprehensive Student Life Plan, driving a 160 percent increase in student involvement, and played a crucial role in donor engagement.

Based in Pittsfield, Jewish Federation of the Berkshires cares for those in need and nurtures and sustains Jewish life in the Berkshires and beyond. In 2024, its annual campaign raised more than $1.3 million from more than 1,100 donors, reflecting 11 years of continued growth.

The Berkshire Regional Office of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center in Pittsfield has named Timothy Kiely as a senior adviser.

Kiely brings over 20 years of banking experience in Berkshire County to the Massachusetts SBDC. His background includes working with small businesses and serving as program manager for EforAll Berkshire County, where he guided entrepreneurs through a business accelerator to enhance skills

in bookkeeping and marketing.

His experience brings a wealth of knowledge to small businesses looking for resources, skills and tools to build a strong organization.

At the SBDC, Kiely provides support in business plan development, feasibility studies, financing options, cash flow analysis, and marketing strategies. He has served in various community roles, including former Berkshire Young Professionals chairman and a Coolidge Hill Foundation board director.

The Massachusetts SBDC is dedicated to helping small businesses succeed, offering no-cost, confidential one-onone assistance and educational training throughout the commonwealth.

Berkshire Family & Individual Resources has promoted Katrina Cardillo to senior director of marketing and public relations.

In her new role, Cardillo will continue to lead marketing and PR initiatives and also will play an important role in advancing BFAIR’s fundraising activities.

Cardillo brings a wealth of experience in marketing, management and community engagement to her expanded responsibilities. Since joining BFAIR, Cardillo has been instrumental in amplifying the organization’s mission to support individuals with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injuries and autism. Her innovative strategies and leadership have significantly contributed to brand awareness and community outreach.

Cardillo’s career began with @utoRevenue, where she quickly ascended to the management team and contributed to the company’s marketing and operational strategies. Following the acquisition by Dominion Enterprises, she transitioned to the corporate marketing team within the Dominion Dealer Solutions automotive division, overseeing marketing initiatives for multiple business units.

After her tenure in the corporate world, Cardillo shifted her focus to the human service sector. Over the past 12 years, she has been dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations in Berkshire County.

Cardillo, a resident of Otis, holds a master of business administration and a bachelor of science in business administration from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

Pittsfield Cooperative Bank has promoted of Jennifer L. Parsons to senior vice president, human resources.

In her new elevated role, she will lead all aspects of the bank’s human resources strategy, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, professional development, and organizational culture.

Parsons will oversee the bank’s evolving and long-term HR strategy, focusing on recruiting top talent, strengthening the bank’s workplace culture, enhancing employee development, and ensuring the bank becomes an employer of choice within the community.

She brings more than 10 years of human resources experience and holds a Senior Professional Human Resources certification from the HR Certification Institute. She is actively involved in her community and volunteers at the Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center and has served on its board of directors since 2023, reflecting her dedication to both her profession and her community.

A Berkshire native, Parsons lives Pittsfield. She graduated from Berkshire Community College, receiving degrees in both business and hospitality administration.

Lee Bank has promoted SooJa Wha-

len to assistant vice president of consumer banking and Michele Kotek to South County area manager, and hired Emily Davis as Great Barrington branch manager. Whalen has over 25 years of banking experience, including eight years with Lee Bank, where she has previously held positions as universal banker, community banker and South County area manager. In her new role, Whalen will focus on staff development, sales and service strategy, and operational efficiencies to further enhance customer experience and banking operations.

She also serves as treasurer of the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce and is a board member of BerkShares. Originally from Lee, she now lives in Great Barrington. Kotek’s five-plus years experience in banking and more than 20 years in hospitality has built a strong foundation in creating welcoming environments and guiding customers toward their financial goals. In her new position, Kotek will continue to foster strong customer relationships, support financial success for the community, and lead the South County team with her engaging and dynamic approach. She is an active board member of the Kiwanis Club of Lee.

Davis has over 30 years of banking experience, including 22 years at Berkshire Bank and nine years at Pittsfield Cooperative Bank as AVP/branch manager. She will focus on leading the Great Barrington branch, strengthening customer relationships and developing local connections.

She also is an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Sheffield, where she has served on the board for nine years and was president for two years. She has also contributed to the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce and the town of Sheffield Finance Committee.

The Literacy Network has named Susan Harding to the part-time role of development and operations associate. Harding has with five years of experience managing fundraising databases and working with small nonprofits to increase community engagement. In her previous roles at the Shaker Museum in Old Chatham, N.Y., and Stockbridge Library Museum & Archives, Harding worked with staff, board and varied committees to implement annual appeals, execute galas and concerts, and develop creative community events. She succeeds Amy Chin, who is retiring as development and operations manager. Chin, who has spent 30 years doing database design and data analysis for local organizations, will stay on as a consultant.

In addition to her professional roles in nonprofit development, Harding has been a stay-at-home mom, an interim library director, served three consecutive terms on the Lee School Committee, and was a Lee town representative.

LitNet provides one-on-one instruction to speakers of other languages wishing to improve their English skills as well as any adult seeking help with basic education, high school equivalency test preparation, U.S. citizenship test preparation, and first-generation college support.