You are on page 1of 32

June-July 2016 vol 26

Complimentary

(37)

Our BerkshireTimes

Local Events | Ho

den | Vibrant Living | Art & Culture

Art & Culture in the Berkshires / Visit us at www.OurBerkshireTimes.com


Cover Art by Deborah Van Auten / www.vanauten.com

Berkshire Mountain Design Build, LLC

Designed & Handcrafted in the Berkshire Mountains


Complete Design Services

Complete Building Services

Phone: (413) 441-6990

apsamale@gmail.com

w w w. be r k s h i r e m o u n ta i n d e s i g n b u i l d . c o m

Kathy I. Regan
publisher@ourberkshiretimes.com
Kevin J. Regan
kevin@ourberkshiretimes.com
_______________
EDITORIAL
Kathy I. Regan
editor@ourberkshiretimes.com
Rodelinde Albrecht
rodelinde@gmail.com
Copyeditor/Proofreader
Rodelinde Albrecht
_______________
DESIGN
Magazine Design/Layout
Kathy I. Regan
_______________
TO ADVERTISE CONTACT
Account Representatives
Kevin J. Regan
kevin@ourberkshiretimes.com
Sheri Ann Biasin
sheri@ourberkshiretimes.com
Debra Johnson
debra@ourberkshiretimes.com
Our BerkshireGreen, Inc.
P.O. Box 133, Housatonic, MA 01236
Phone: (413) 274-1122
advertise@ourberkshiretimes.com
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com
_______________
COVER ILLUSTRATION

At Stonehenge
by Deborah Van Auten, Artist
www.vanauten.com
In Deborah Van
Autens paintings, old
world style merges
with contemporary
images in dreamlike
worlds rich with
symbolism. Her
award-winning work
is in many private
collections and has
been featured in prestigious publications
worldwide. She has exhibited throughout
the country, and is currently showing with
Arden Gallery in Boston, Massachusetts,
where she also resides. To view more of
her work, go to www.vanauten.com.
Email deborah@vanauten.com.

June - July 2016

Contents

Our
BerkshireTimes
PUBLISHERS

art, culture & entertainment

20

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
DOWN BY THE RIVER

22

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

12
13

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS
BLUE LIGHT

animal talk
VELVET ANTLER

summer gift guide

28
30

18

IN THE BERKSHIRES

31

featured advertisers
THANK YOU!

food & drink

Like Us On

GRILLED SHRIMP WITH TZATZIKI

Our BerkshireTimes

have you heard?


PCB DUMPS

MY FIRST TREE HOUSE


OF THE MINERAL KINGDOM

mind & spirit

OLD AGE A MYTH!

home & garden


THE MAGICAL WORLD

health & wellness


DELICIOUSLY RAW

AWESOME MOTORCYCLE TIPS

10

education & workshops


GO BEYOND

A JEWEL OF A LAKE

This publication is printed with soy ink on environmentally


friendly Forest Stewardship Council certified paper.
Our BerkshireTimes magazine was first published in 2009 and is
enjoyed by community members and visitors alike. We distribute
bimonthly (six times per year) starting each February. Most of our
editorial content is contributed by our readers. We welcome your
ideas, articles, and feedback, and encourage you to submit
original material for consideration through our website. To find out
more about advertising and submitting articles, see our website at
left, and join our mailing list to receive our free eNewsletter.
All content in Our BerkshireTimes is
accepted in good faith. We do not
necessarily advocate and cannot
be held responsible for opinions
expressed or facts supplied by our
authors, illustrators, and advertisers. We
reserve the right to refuse advertising
for any reason. For printing errors of the
publisher's responsibility, liability is limited
to the cost of the ad space in which it
first appeared. Unless otherwise noted,
we use a Creative Commons License in
place of a standard copyright.

At Stonehenge (34 x 30)


by Deborah Van Auten
www.vanauten.com

Love is the most fundamental force of creation. ~ Nassim Haramein


The Resonance Project, www.resonance.is
3

art, culture & entertainment

a jewel of a lake
A LOCAL LAKE JUST WAITING TO BE EXPLORED / By Nina Anderson

ust across the Massachusetts border in Salisbury, CT,


is a jewel of a lake dotted mostly with fishermen in
putt-putts, a few water skiers and wakeboarders, early
morning kayakers, and a dozen or so graceful sailboats
enjoying the summer breezes. The Twin Lakes, Washinee and
Washining, named for the two daughters of a Mahican chief,
are connected only by a water passage under the causeway.
Nothing much bigger than a canoe or a kayak can sneak
under, so most of the boating is done on the northeastern
lake. Since the majority of the shoreline is privately owned,
there are only two places to put your boat in. One is the
state boat launching access for cartop or portage boats, and
the other is OHaras Landing Marina, which actually has a
ramp where trailer boats can launch for a fee. The best thing
about this marina is the friendly folks who help you out and
the yummy lunches served at the dockside restaurant.
As a sailor, I was drawn to this lake because it is one of the
larger lakes in the Berkshire/Taconic region, it is fairly open
with great views of the mountains, and it gets good wind.
While the marina rents pontoon boats, fishing boats, and
canoes, they discontinued their sailboat rentals years ago

because they were tired of rescuing folks who capsized or ran


out of wind. I decided to work with them to offer charters
on my 21 sailboat so visitors could experience the beautiful
mountain sunsets from our comfortable minicruiser. Now
landlubbers can get out on the water with power or sail,
even if they dont own a boat. Twin Lakes doesnt have any
public beaches although there is a members-only club that
supports tennis and swimming along with some limited
dock space. Even if you dont want to venture out on the
high seas you can sit on the shaded porch at OHaras
and have a scrumptious grilled chicken sandwich or eat a
super Sunday breakfast while enjoying the pristine view. I
love sailing here, especially in the fall when all the red and
yellow colors dot the shoreline. This is a great destination if
you want to just zip over the state line from the Berkshires.
Note that the sailboat pictured at left is for representational purposes
only and is larger than the typical sailboat found on our local lakes.

~ Nina Andersons 21 cabin sailboat is available for weekday, evening,


and weekend charters. The publishers of Our BerkshireTimes
Magazine can personally give Ninas service the thumbs up! Contact
Nashalla Sailing at (888) 217-7233, www.nashallasailing.com.

4//.%26),,%42/,,%9

2%#/2$3
2ECORDSAND#$S
RECORDS
& CDs

.EW USEDANDIMPORTED
New Used Imported

Visit7EGOBEYOND
us! Open 10-6 Mon-Sat

Free programs September through July

visit our website for listings ~ all are welcome

THEBARCODE
413-458-5229

7ATER3T
131 Water Street,
Williamstown, MA

7ILLIAMSTOWN -!
www.toonervilletrolleyrecords.com

  

/PEN^-ON^3AT
WWWTOONERVILLETROLLEYRECORDSCOM

Alternative
Fuel
and
Fuel-Efficient
Chauffeured
Transportation
Alternative
Fuel
and
Fuel-Efficient
Chauffeured
Transportation

Top quality limo service with


a minimal impact on the
environment.

Serving the
Serving
TheEntire
EntireNortheast

and Beyond!
JFK,
Boston, and
Hartford,
Northeast
beyond!
Albany, Anywhere, Anytime.

The Hotchkiss School


11 Interlaken Road, Lakeville, ct
860.435.4423 | hotchkiss.org/arts
4

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

JFK, Boston, Hartford,


Albany,
Anywhere,
Wine Tours
and Anytime.

Ride Shares
Wine
Tours and
Available!
Ride Shares
available!
413-637-1224
www.tobislimo.com
tobislimo@aol.com

art, culture & entertainment

world class art


IN A FRIENDLY, SMALL-TOWN ATMOSPHERE

eumann Fine Art presents recent work by Don Wynn.


In 1995, one of Wynns paintings was acquired by the
Metropolitan Museum of Art for its Twentieth Century Collection.
Mr. Wynns long and distinguished international exhibition record
spans more than 50 years, and reviews of his work have appeared
worldwide in many publications including the New York Times,
Art News, Art International, and the New Yorker. Open 11-4 every
Thursday through Sunday. www.neumannfineart.com.

SATURDAY JULY 9
North Becket Village

Food Fun Dancing


9am-4pm and 7pm-11pm

Childrens
Activities
Cooking
Demonstration
Rock nRoll
Food & Beer
Silent Auction
Strawberry
Shortcake

hilltown brouhaha
JOIN US ON JULY 9TH IN NORTH BECKET VILLAGE

lease join us for a day filled with many free, fun family activities
at the Becket Washington Community Fair. 9am-4-pm:
Vendors, artisans, crafters, Smokey the Bear, Bowey the Magic
Clown, book sale, Jacobs Pillow performance, Kushi Institute
cooking demonstrations, silent auction, Dream Away Lodge food
sampling, and more! 7-11pm: Family-friendly evening provided by
the Becket Firemens Association. Live music and dancing, food,
fun, and a Beer Garden hosted by Wandering Star Brewery.

annual art show


HONORS THE TALENT OF 100 CATA ARTISTS

ATAs (Community Access to the Arts) annual art shows,


I Am a Part of Art, will take place at both the Lichtenstein
Center for the Arts and The Clark Art Institutes Lunder Center.
The exhibits (dates listed at right) feature stunning and vivid
paintings, drawings, and collages created by 100 CATA artists with
disabilities, honoring their talents and expanding public perception
of disability. All artwork for sale. Free admission to both exhibits.
To learn more, visit www.communityaccesstothearts.org.

Nashalla Sailing

ahoy, landlubbers
SAIL & PICNIC ON BEAUTIFUL TWIN LAKES IN SALISBURY, CT

C
Charter with Captain Nina on
Twin Lakes, Salisbury CT
888-217-7233

ome join Nashalla Sailing this summer for a relaxing sail


on beautiful Twin Lakes in Salisbury, Connecticut. Our
comfortable, stable 21 minicruiser holds up to four landlubbers
and is accessed at OHaras Landing dock. Captain Nina has been
sailing for more than 50 years and will provide you with a fun
afternoon or sunset voyage. Bring a picnic and your sunblock.
Visit our website for details at www.nashallasailing.com, and call
(888) 217-7233 to book your charter. Gift certificates available.
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

art, culture & entertainment

down
by the river
Down by the
River

MAKE YOUR FIRST DATE A SUCCESS / By Rodelinde Albrecht

By Nicholas Dayal

Photo courtesy of the Laurel Hill Association of Stockbridge, www.laurelhillassociation.org

n Stockbridge, Massachusetts, where I grew up, there is


a place that has borne witness to my progression from
childhood to young adult like the height marks etched upon
a kids bedroom doorframe. This place has many names among
the people who know of it. Park Street. The Bridge. Ice
Glen. Lauras Tower. The Bench. Down by the River.
And there are others.
Park Street is a dead end street that is anything but dead at the end
off Route 7 by a Mobil Gas Station, there is a skate park, soccer field,
and small playground on one side, and houses on the other turning
into a dirt parking lot at the base of two mountains, one big and one
small. There are hiking trails up and along both mountains.
Separating the two mountains is the Housatonic River, or the
Housy. A river once untamed and beautiful (or so I imagine),
once littered with booming paper mills, once deserted and
polluted with PCBs, and now on the rebound to its most former
of the previous conditions. With the melting of the ice in the
spring, the river is fast and eager. In the summer, it is alive with
fish, bugs, birds, visiting animals, and curious people. By autumn,
it is framed in beautiful reds, oranges, and golden yellows, and in
the winter, it sleeps.
From the parking lot, to cross the river there is an old footbridge
that moves up and down with each step, like a not-so-tight
tightrope. My dad taught me how to fish off this bridge about 20
years ago. I was six years old. Last summer, I brought my nephew
here to learn how to fish. He was six years old.
6

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

At the end of the bridge, going straight, there is a dirt path that
crosses over train tracks that I used to put pennies on when I was
young. The path continues up Ice Glen, the bigger of the two
mountains, splitting into two winding paths littered with big fallen
trees. The right path ascends gradually until meeting a steep incline
made of step-sized rocks that climb and fall through a canyon of
giant boulders that, as a kid, I believed must have been similar to
the ones Zeus walked up to get to the top of Mt. Olympus.
The left path leads to a rusty old tower called Lauras Tower, etched
with initials paired together professing everlasting love. Whether
or not these people remain together is unimportant, because for
a brief moment these claims were true, and will remain forever
stated. The top of the tower offers a sweeping panoramic view
of the rolling mountains of Berkshire County and the distant
mountains of upstate New York. I first climbed this tower in Mrs.
Sweeneys first grade class. I thought Laura was very lucky.
Instead of climbing up Ice Glen or up to Lauras Tower, at the end
of the bridge going left there is a walking path made of wooden
planks where there used to be only a hardly visible trail made
from knowing footsteps. After about 20 or 30 paces, directly off
the path to the left back towards the bank of the river, is a bench.
At the edge of the bank there is a new short single-log fence.
A small plaque on the bench reads In Memory of Michael Ida
and William Flynn. October 5th 2003. I never knew Michael or
William, but I will also never forget them.
Perched roughly six feet from the rivers surface (during summer

art, culture & entertainment

tides), five or so feet from the edge of the Housy, Mike and Bills
bench is angled east to west facing north allowing one to follow
the movement of the rivers water. As you sit on the bench, the
river runs past you, reflecting the movement of the sun, and the
shadows of its descent. The water is clear, and shallow enough
in areas to see the rocks and pebbles that form the riverbed and
darting silhouettes of fish. From the bench, you can see the
landscape of the opposite bank mirrored in the surface of the
river: the muddy shore, a stripe of bushes higher up the bank,
low-hanging branches reaching towards you, a body of twisted
branches in the middle of the river, the tops of trees, and finally,
the expanse of the sky reflected at your feet.
Immersed in the heartbeat of the wild, you might hear the
splash of running water, the chirping of birds, the whistle of
the occasional train, the excited barks of two dogs meeting on
the walking trail, the rustle of a growing wind, the crunching of
footsteps both human and animal, the slight hum of insects, and
the sound of a deeply exhaled breath.
In fifth grade, this same bench is where I kissed Allie after
school. I told her it wasnt my first time kissing. But it was. This
is also where I would meet friends before high school dances
to drink whatever alcohol we borrowed from our parents, or
got from an older brother or sister or whatever person in town
could be bribed with a pack of cigarettes. We would also meet
at the bench to smoke pot before school, or during school, or
after school, or instead of school.

multicultural bridge
HIGHLIGHTING THE MOSAIC OF THE BERKSHIRE HILLS

he Multicultural BRIDGE mission is to integrate


community by promoting mutual respect, cultural literacy,
and inclusion through training, fellowship, advocacy, and
education. They promote mutual understanding and acceptance
among diverse groups, serving as a resource to both local
institutions and the community at large. Multicultural BRIDGE
serves as a catalyst for change through collaboration, education,
training, dialogue, fellowship, and advocacy.
Our current school collaborations provide youth leadership training,
family education and engagement, and many types of literacy courses.
These courses range from reading and writing, financial literacy, and
cultural heritage to health and mental health (mindfulness training)
for grades K-12. BRIDGE is also a proud partner on opioid use
and abuse prevention, and sex health initiatives with local partners.
Our professional training serves the Berkshires and beyond
into Boston, MA, Canaan, NY, and Burlington, VT. For current
classes, training, and upcoming community events, visit our
website www.multiculturalbridge.org. Facebook: Multicultural
BRIDGE or Twitter: BRIDGE413. Please also visit our On the
Bridge blog highlighting the diversity of the Berkshires. Email:
Gwendolyn@multiculturalbridge.org

At 16 years old, sitting on the bench, I concentrated my nerves


and solidified my relationship with the girl of my dreams, Jennifer.
She answered my request not with words, but with kisses. I put
my arms around her, she rested her head on my chest, and I knew
that we would be together forever.
Four years later, I met my friend Owen at the bench to share a
bottle of Jameson after Jenny and I broke up. I was slumped over
and Owen put his arm awkwardly around my shoulder and said,
I love you man. #!**s only gonna get better.
With the passing of time the titan-sized boulders of Ice Glen have
gotten smaller, Lauras Tower isnt as tall, and the footbridge crossing
the Housy doesnt look down on white rapids inhabited by sharks
and alligators. However, the beauty of the place that goes by many
names has magnified before my more appreciating eye each time I
visit. And no matter where I go, I still think of Michael and Williams
bench. And no matter how complicated life gets, or how complicated
I perceive life to get, things are always simple and beautiful when I
return to that lone bench. I usually go back home for one stated
reason or another. But the unstated reasons are always the same. I
miss my mom. I miss my cats. I miss my friends. I miss my house.
And I miss sitting on the bench down by the river.
~ Nick Dayal is a writer and actor who grew up in Stockbridge. He attended
Monument Mountain High School and graduated from the University
of Massachusetts Boston in 2013. Dayal currently writes and works in
Berkshire County on a locally based web series called I Miss Yesterday.

BRIDGE We Connect People Through


Cultural Competence Training Consulting
Multicultural Presentations Youth Programs
Workplace Language Classes

www.multiculturalbridge.org
Strengthening Berkshire Countys
Diverse Population With Programs at Foster
Communication, Respect, and Pride
Main Office:
17 Main Street, Suite 2
Lee, MA 01238
413-394-4029

Satellite Office:
313 Monument Valley Road
Great Barrington, MA 01230
413-644-2372

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

art, culture & entertainment

awesome motorcycle tips


By Pittsfield Lawn & Tractor

otorcycles are fuel efficient and fun. Thats not news percent more likely to suffer a fatal head injury in a crash and three
to anyone whos ridden one. But neither is the fact that times more likely to suffer brain injuries than those with helmets,
theyre also way more dangerous than a car. The cold according to government studies.
Wear the right gear. Jeans, a T-shirt, and sandals are recipes
reality is that motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to die in a
crash than people in a car, according to the Insurance Institute for a painful disaster on a bike. Instead, you want gear that will
for Highway Safety (IIHS). Still, many enthusiasts enjoy a lifetime protect you from wind chill, flying bugs and debris, and, yes, lots of
of riding without injury. The key to optimizing your odds is to be road rash if you should slide out. For maximum protection, go for
prepared and avoid risks. Below are some tips to help you stay safe a leather or other reinforced jacket, gloves, full pants, and over-theankle footwear, even in summer.
on two or three wheels.
Be defensive. A recent study by the University of South
Dont buy more bike than you can handle. If youve been
off motorcycles for a while, you may be surprised by the performance Floridas Center for Urban Transportation Research found that in
of todays bikes. Even models with small-displacement engines are collisions involving a motorcycle and a car, car drivers were at fault
notably faster and more powerful than they were 10 or 20 years ago. 60 percent of the time. So, you need to be extra alert, especially in
You might want one with an engine in the 500- to 750-cc range so this age of epidemic phone use and texting behind the wheel.
Avoid bad weather. Slippery conditions reduce your margin for
you can easily keep up with traffic on the highway.
Invest in antilock brakes. Now available on a wide array of error. Rain not only cuts your visibility but reduces your tires grip on
you need
ride in the
models, antilock brakes are a proven lifesaver. IIHS data shows that the road, which can make cornering tricky. If1548
W toHOUSATONIC
S
1548 W HOUSATONIC
ST
motorcycles equipped with ABS brakes are 37 percent less likely to rain, remember that the most dangerous time is right after precipitation
PITTSFIELD,
MA 01201
PITTSFIELD,
01201
begins, as the water can cause
oil residue to riseMA
to the
top.
be involved in a fatal crash than bikes without it.
Watch for road hazards. A motorcycle has less contact with the
Hone your skills. As Hondas Jon Seidel puts it, There is
(413) 443-2623
(413)
443-2623
pavement than a car. Sand, wet
leaves, or
pebbles can cause a bike to
nothing we could say or advise more1548
than toW
goHOUSATONIC
find a Motorcycle ST
in a spill. Bumps and
potholes that you
Safety Foundation (MSF) riding course in your area. Thats critical, slide unexpectedly, easily resulting
www.PLT.com
www.PLT.com
absolutely critical. An MSF course orPITTSFIELD,
similar class canMA
teach01201
you might barely notice in a car can pose serious danger when on a bike.
Be ready to roll. Before each ride, do a quick walk-around
the basics, as well as advanced techniques,
such as 443-2623
how to perform
(413)
to make sure your lights, horn, and directional signals are working
evasive emergency maneuvers.
1548
ST theTHINK
www.PLT.com
Check
chain,
orIT
shaft,
and the brakes.
inspect
Use your head. Yes, helmets are an emotional
topicW
forHOUSATONIC
some properly.
IFbelt,
YOU
THINK
ITAnd
LOOKS
IF YOU
LOOKS
the tires
for
wear
and
make
sure
theyre
set
at
the
proper
pressure.
riders. But the facts show the risk. Riders without PITTSFIELD,
a helmet are 40 MA
01201

ON
PAPER, WAIT
GREAT ONGREAT
PAPER,
WAIT
(413) 443-2623
UNTIL YOU SEE IT IN ACTION.
IF YOU THINK IT LOOKS UNTIL YOU SEE IT IN ACTION.
www.PLT.com
GREAT ON PAPER, WAIT
1548
HOUSATONIC
ST
UNTIL YOU SEE
ITWIN
ACTION.
PITTSFIELD, MA 01201
IF YOU THINK IT LOOKS
IF YOU(413)
THINK
IT LOOKS
443-2623
GREAT ON
PAPER, WAIT GREAT ON PAPER, WAIT
www.PLT.com
UNTIL YOU SEE IT IN ACTION.
UNTIL YOU SEE IT IN ACTION.
IF YOU THINK IT LOOKS
GREAT ON PAPER, WAIT
UNTIL YOU SEE IT IN ACTION.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL CAN-AM


SPYDER DEALER FOR A
TEST DRIVE TODAY.

VISIT YOUR
LOCAL
CAN-AM SPYDER
VISIT YOUR LOCAL
CAN-AM
SPYDER
TEST RIDE TODAY.
DEALER FORDEALER
A TEST FOR
RIDEATODAY.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL CAN-AM SPYDER


DEALER FOR A TEST RIDE TODAY.

Experience
the all-new
soul-stirring
exhilaration
the all-new
Spyder
F3. high-torque
With a cruising riding position, high-torqu
Experience the soul-stirring exhilaration
of the
Spyder
F3. With aofcruising
riding
position,

Rotax 1330
ACEsignature
engine,Y-Frame
personalized
fit, youll
and signature
youll ride with a feeling of compl
Rotax 1330 ACE engine, personalized
fit, and
design,
ride withY-Frame
a feelingdesign,
of complete
freedomof
and
confidence.
The evolution
of riding istohere.
Visitfor
CanAmSpyder.com
freedom and confidence. The evolution
riding
is here. Visit
CanAmSpyder.com
register
a test ride today. to register for a test ride t

VISIT YOUR LOCAL CAN-AM SPYDER


DEALER
FOR
A TEST
RIDE TODAY.
VISIT YOUR
LOCAL
CAN-AM
SPYDER

Experience the soul-stirring exhilaration of the all-new Spyder F3. With a cruising riding position, high-torque

Rotax 1330 ACE engine, personalized fit, and signature Y-Frame design, youll ride with a feeling of complete

freedom and confidence. The evolution of riding is here. Visit CanAmSpyder.com to register for a test ride
today.

riding has evolved.


DEALER FOR A TEST RIDE TODAY.

riding has evolved. riding has e

2014 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. , and the BRP logo are trademarks of
BRP or its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed by BRP US Inc. Some models depicted may include optional

2014 Bombardier
Recreational
Products
Inc. (BRP).safely.
All rights
reserved.
, and
the BRPlocal
logolaws
are trademarks
of BRPDont
or
Always
ride
responsibly
Always
observe
applicable
and regulations.
drink and drive.
2014 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP).
All equipment.
rights
, and
the
BRP logoand
are
trademarks
BRP
or
its affiliates.
In thereserved.
U.S.A., products
are
distributed
by BRP
US Inc. of
Some
models
depicted may include optional equipment.
its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products are distributed
by BRP
Inc. Someand
models
depicted
include
optionallocal
equipment.
Always
rideUS
responsibly
safely.
Alwaysmay
observe
applicable
laws and regulations. Dont drink and drive.
Always ride responsibly and safely. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Dont drink and drive.

Experience the soul-stirring exhilaration of the all-new Spyder F3. With a cruising riding position, high-torque

Rotax
1330 ACE exhilaration
engine, personalized
fit, and
Y-Frame
youll ride with a feeling of complete
Experience
the soul-stirring
of the all-new Spyder
F3.signature
With a cruising
riding design,
position, high-torque
June | July
2016
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

freedom
and
The
evolution
ofY-Frame
riding
is here.
Visit
CanAmSpyder.com
to register
ACE Allengine,
personalized
fit,
signature
ride
with a feeling of complete
2014 Bombardier Recreational Rotax
Products1330
Inc. (BRP).
rightsconfidence.
reserved.
, and
the and
BRP
logo are trademarks
ofdesign,
BRP
or youll
its affiliates. In the U.S.A., products
are distributed
by BRP US Inc.The
Some
models depicted
mayisinclude
equipment.
freedom
and confidence.
evolution
of riding
here. optional
Visit CanAmSpyder.com
to register for a test ride today.
Always ride responsibly and safely. Always observe applicable local laws and regulations. Dont drink and drive.

for a test ride today.

riding has evolved.

riding has evolved.

art, culture & entertainment

natures art
VISIT BERKSHIRE PRODUCTS & LET YOUR IMAGINATION SOAR

The Countrys Largest Display of


Unique Slabs and Burls

erkshire Products, Inc., located in Sheffield, MA, was started


in 1987 by Alan Zablonski, a former woodworking teacher. His
love of working with highly figured and unique wood has resulted
in their business having one of the largest selections of large natural
edge slabs, burls, and unique figured lumber in the country.
If you are looking for a special piece of wood for a one-of-a-kind
piece of furniture, Berkshire Products has what you are looking for.
Their specialty is wide lumber that is ideal for one-piece tables or
countertops. They carry lumber up to 90 wide and 8 thick in both
exotic and domestic species. They also have an excellent selection
of figured woods, turnings, pine flooring, instrument woods, and
mantel pieces. Lumber is air dried for up to three years and then
finish dried in their custom-designed vacuum kilns. This method
produces high-quality lumber that has little cupping or twisting. All
slabs are then sanded, which gives customers a better idea of what
the wood really looks like, saving them time and money.
Berkshire Products is a full-service lumber business that offers
custom sawing and milling. They offer shipping for most of their
slabs. Visit their large lumberyard, showroom, and website, and
let your imagination soar! www.berkshireproducts.com

new location!
BRAND-NAME JEWELRY AND CUSTOM CREATIONS

Berkshire
Products

Sheffield, MA
413-229-7919
BerkshireProducts.com

YES, IVE MOVED!

tef Fine Jeweler is now located in the scenic Berkshire


community of Williamstown, Massachusetts. Featuring the
work of Syrian-born Master Jewelry Craftsman Atef Bolos, the
store offers an extensive line of brand-name pieces (also available
online) alongside Atef s custom creations.
Custom-designed jewelry gives you the opportunity to express
your individuality and unique and personal style. If you are
searching for something out of the ordinary, consider asking Atef
to help you create a one-of-a-kind, individually designed piece of
jewelry to celebrate a special occasion an engagement, wedding,
birth, anniversary, graduation or just to say I love you.
The custom process starts with you: your basic idea and preferences.
From there, a piece of wax is carved into the likeness of the finished
product, and gemstones are added. The design is then cast, finely
polished, and precisely set with the highest quality jewels available.
The final result is something beautiful, and best of all, something
special and original to you. Atef has been designing custom jewelry
for years, so stop in to take advantage of his experience and see
your ideas become a reality authentic wearable art that can be
yours to cherish for generations to come.

Service as good as gold

brand-name jewelry & custom creations

296 Main Street, Williamstown, MA (413) 458-7077

www.ateffinejeweler.com
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

animal talk

Velvet Antler

A NATURAL THERAPY BACKED BY ROBUST RESEARCH


By P.J. Broadfoot, DVM, and Nina Anderson

wners of mature cats and


dogs are increasingly looking
beyond conventional treatments
for chronic conditions in their pets, and they
appreciate the opportunity for their veterinarian to
offer them a broader range of options. They are also
looking at wellness treatments to prevent illness and increase vitality.
Velvet antler fits well into this range. As a natural therapy backed by
robust research, this choice will appeal to many pet owners.
This traditional Chinese medicine is a nutritional supplement made
from the humanely harvested inner core of deer antler in the velvet
stage of growth and is a beneficial addition to veterinary healing
modalities, including remarkable results for joint problems and in
mitigating skin conditions like alopecia. The history of antler as a
medicinal substance stretches back thousands of years. Although
the most well-documented ancient uses come from China and the
Far East, other cultures from Northern Europe and Northern Asia
to North America and ancient Rome have also benefited from
the use of antler as a tonic and for the treatment of a variety of
medical conditions for humans such as joint pain, kidney and liver
problems, ulcers, gout, headaches, eczema, and low energy. In Asia
they still love it as a tonic to relieve symptoms of menopause.
The complex proteins and lipids found in velvet antler are
thought to provide these health benefits, and continued research
is confirming this. Although the main body of research and
experience of velvet antler usage applies to humans going back
more than 2,000 years, it is fitting that this knowledge is now being
applied to the small-animal kingdom by forward-thinking vets.
Deer velvet has been shown to improve blood cell production,
an advantage in many secondary anemias. It is often used to
increase blood counts, particularly in cases of anemia induced by
chemotherapy, says TCM practitioner David Scrimgeour, LAc.
Research has shown that long-standing wounds and ulcers also
respond well to the growth hormone precursors in velvet antler,
and which have been suggested as factors in healing wounds,
mending bones, and helping with arthritic complaints. Velvet antler
also has been shown to improve post-surgery recovery and when
used for cardio conditions, the polysaccharides contained in the
antler tend to reduce the clotting tendency of blood, and have a
blood-thinning effect. This can contribute to improved circulation,
reduced stroke risk, and improved cardiovascular health without
the attendant side effects of currently popular drugs.
10

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Chow Chows, Pomeranians, Keeshonds, Samoyeds, Alaskan


Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, and Miniature Poodles are predisposed
to chronic hair loss and, with few exceptions, vets have had some
remarkably improved dermatological cases with use of the deer
antler. Therapies based on specially processed New Zealand velvet
antler can provide a natural, holistic treatment to help relieve
symptoms associated with joint problems caused by osteoarthritis
in pets, as well as providing relief from pain and inflammation and
increasing mobility. An uncontrolled trial by Mr. E. van Schreven,
Veterinarian, South Canterbury, New Zealand, studying dogs with
arthritis was carried out using placebos and velvet antler, and found
a positive response in 84 percent of the velvet antler group and
no response in the placebo group. The velvet antler supplement
appeared to increase the activity levels of all dogs, some of them
exhibiting behaviors of their youth such as ball catching, jumping
up in the car, etc. Greg Dwyer, a minister and NLP Practitioner
from Litchfield, CT, found the deer velvet saved his older Husky,
who was always crying and whimpering. My dog was in pain this
February. At the most perfect time, Nina told me about velvet
antler. Within three months, my dog was doing much better. I am
so grateful she cared enough to educate me. The dog seems to be
free of pain and is walking much better.
Not all velvet antler products are the same. The bioavailability (or
absorption) into the body is dependent on the process by which the
antler is manufactured. The product we use for our pets is made in New
Zealand through a patented method where the molecular structure
is changed to allow better bioavailability that allows assimilation of
over 70 percent more than traditional deer velvet products. This is
important to pet owners so they can get the results they desire. Velvet
antler is a pet supplement definitely worth investigating more.
Excerpted from the book The Efficacy of Velvet Antler in Veterinary Practice
available from Amazon. For more information on New Zealand Velvet
Agility pet supplement, or the proprietary veterinarian brand, call (888)
217-7233.
~ Nina Anderson worked for 35 years as an airline and
corporate jet pilot. She is a Certified Neurolinguistic
Practitioner, Reiki II Practitioner, and an ISSA Specialist
in Performance Nutrition. Nina is the author of 18
books on natural health including her new title, Think and
Feel Younger. She blogs under the name of Anti Aging
Lady, www.antiaginglady.com.

animal talk

we can help
FEEDING HUNGRY TUMMIES ACROSS THE BERKSHIRES

hen times get tough, people have hard decisions to make


about whether to feed their children or feed their pets. In
most cases, the pets get sent to a shelter or rescue group, put
to sleep, or maybe adopted out. That is why Pet Partners of
the Tri-State Berkshires was created. We provide free pet food,
reduced-rate spay and neuter, and assistance with basic veterinary
care costs on a case by case basis. Your gifts and donations to Pet
Partners will help pets and their owners right away!

Pet Partners
of the Tri-State Berkshires

Provides
Food for needy dogs and cats
Reduced rate spay/neuter
Assistance with basic veterinary care costs
Call Faith 518-781-0362
Call 413.229.8579
or 518.781.0362
or visit www.petpartnersberkshires.org

We are
an entirely
501(c)(3)
Nonprofit
A division
of Scientific
Allianceall
Forvolunteer
Education (S.A.F.E.),
a 501(
c)(3) NonOrganization
Profit Organization

raising awareness
VOLUNTEER / DONATE / LEARN MORE

he mission of Animal DREAMS is to improve the lives


and promote the humane care and acceptance of feral
cats throughout Berkshire County and beyond. Through TrapNeuter-Return (TNR) the population of feral cats will become
stabilized, with healthy cats and zero population growth.
Through advocacy, education, and action, we raise awareness
and activism among citizens, animal care professionals, local
government, and the business community.

bensdotters pet

Advocates
for
Community
Cats
Celebrating10
10years
years
as
Celebrating
as
Raising awareness through
advocacy,
education, and action.
Champions
forCommunity
Community
Cats
Volunteer for
Donate
Learn more
Champions
Cats

413.528.1328
413-997-2287
413.528.1328

P.O.Box
Box1073,
1073,Pittsfield,
Pittsfield,MA
MA01202
01202
P.O.

www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org
www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org

CARING FOR PETS SINCE 1957

HOW WE BECAME RAW-FEEDERS AND RAW-BELIEVERS

Your trusted source


for quality foods
and supplies.

e never skimped on the quality of our pets food, and we


always thought our pets were in pretty good condition,
but then we adopted three hospice kitties and our veterinarian
advised us to put them on a raw food diet. What a difference it
made! Inflammatory bowel disease disappeared, diabetes went
into remission, renal disease arrested, and debilitation gave
way to playfulness. The hospice kitties gained new vitality and
were thriving!
So, we started raw-feeding all our cats, and our dogs as well. Coats
darkened, brightened, and softened. Skin, ears, and anal glands
cleared, and teeth and gums looked healthier. We witnessed
so many improvements in the condition of our pets, brought
about solely by raw-feeding, we couldnt help but be impressed.
Moreover, we could tell that young and old alike just felt better,
with proof being fewer veterinary visits.
At BensDotters Pet we offer lots of healthy ways to feed your pet,
but raw-feeding is our specialty. Join the raw-feeding revolution!
Were here to show you how! See our website for more valuable
information (and the inside back cover of this issue for a listing
of events), and be sure to follow us on Facebook.

find us on
find us on

Your trusted resource


for raw-feeding
information
and advice.

BENSDOTTERS PET 413-528-4940


940 MAIN STREET, GREAT BARRINGTON, MA 01230

Convenient Location with Ample Parking


on Route 7 less than a minute south of Guidos

Mon-Fri 10a-6p

Sat-Sun 10a-4p

www.bensdotters.com
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June |July 2016

11

summer gift guide

SHOP LOCAL

giftguide

SUMMER IN THE BERKSHIRES!

PROTECT

Oakley Sunglasses / Stadium System

Oakley sunglasses offer glare protection with uncompromised clarity. A headache from glare can ruin your
day. Golfers have to deal with this performance-killing distraction regularly, fishing sessions can be futile when blinding rays bounce
off water and hide the keepers, driving in glare can be risky, and road cyclists know how glare can hide potholes and other dangers.
Oakley sunglasses are your super-stylish answer to glare. Available in various shades and styles. Stadium System Retail Store is the
source for everyones athletic and workwear needs. They offer their customers a large selection of equipment, accessories, apparel,
and footwear. Visit Stadium System at 297 Ashley Falls Road, Canaan, CT.
(860) 824-4300, www.stadium-system.com

GLOW

The Good Glow,


Get Radiant without the Rays / Face Haven

Be ready to create the hottest looks of summer with the Good Glow Collection by
jane iredale! Blend together one of our four-color Bronzers to create a sun-kissed
glow for any skin tone. Rose Dawn Bronzer - luminous pink/copper shades $44,
Sunbeam Bronzer - cool pink/bronze shades $44, and Moonglow Bronzer - warm
golden shades $44. Finish off the look and smooth and protect your lips with SPF 15
antioxidant-rich Flirt Lipdrink Lip Balm - peachy pink $15. Visit Face Haven at 323
Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. (413) 528-4053

ACCENT

Venetian Fruit Bowl / Campo de' Fiori

The Aged Venetian Fruit Bowl design has been so


well received that it has appeared in numerous national magazine articles
written about many of the most prominent floral designers across the country.
And this shape, which comes in four distinct sizes, serves equally well as a
planter, a centerpiece, and a decorative item. Come take a look for yourselves
at Campo de Fiori, where the gardens never cease to delight our visitors. View our
online store or visit Campo de Fiori in person at 1815 North Main Street, Sheffield, MA.
(413) 528-9180, www.campodefiori.com / $18.75 $72.50

SAVOR

Gelato, Sorbet, Ice Cream / Chocolate Springs

Treat your friends, loved ones, coworkers (and yourself!) to a delicious,


cool, refreshing gelato, sorbet, or ice cream this summer. Chocolate Springs is a Europeanstyle chocolate and dessert caf with decades of experience in crafting the finest handmade
bonbons. Milk and dark chocolate, truffles, amazing ganache, and award-winning hot
chocolate are made fresh every day using only the finest seasonal and organic ingredients
whenever possible. Visit Chocolate Springs Caf in person at 55 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, MA.
(413) 637-9820, www.chocolatesprings.com

12

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

home & garden

Dress
Up Your Windows
Window Treatments

ATTRACT

Hunter Douglas Graber Norman Shutters


Upholstery, Draperies, Fabric & Wallpaper

The Hummingbirds Are Here!


Wild Birds Country Store

This beautiful faceted glass feeder will


attract ruby-throated hummingbirds to
your yard. We have a huge selection of
items for your hummingbird sanctuary.
This artistic handcrafted design is one
of our collection of 26 different styles
of hummingbird feeders. We even have
a feeder that will allow hummingbirds
to eat out of your hand! We have
hummingbird chandeliers, swings, ant
moats, poles, hangers, nectar, and
brushes for cleaning your feeders. Come
and see why we are your hummingbird
experts. Visit Wild Birds Country Store
at 783 South Main Street, Great Barrington, MA.
(413) 644-9007, www.wild-birdstore.com / $41.99

Window Treatments

Hunter Douglas Graber Comfortex Norman Shutter


For all Your Decorating Needs
Upholstery, Draperies, Fabric & Wallpaper

BerkshireFabric
Fabric
& Wallpaper
Berkshire
& Wallpaper
274
Wahconah
Pittsfield,
274
Wahconah
St.,St.,
Pittsfield,
MA MA

(413) 442-4420
413-442-4420

Complim
June-July 2015 vol 20 (31)

Open
daily
10-5:30,
Sat closed
10-4, closed
Open
daily
10-5:30,
Sat 10-4,
Sunday Sun

entary

Complimentary

es
Our BerkshireTimes
kshireTim Our BerkshireT
Our Ber
imes

2015
April-May

vol 19

April-May 2016
vol

(30)

25

(36)

Complimenta

ry

www.berkshirefabricwallpaper.com

ing
rant Liv
Local Events rde
| Art
Culture
| Home & Garden | Vibrant Living
| Vib
n&
me & Ga

Local Events
lture | Ho
| Art & Culture
| Art & Cu
nts
| Vibrant Livin
Eve
g | Home
Local
& Garden

Emergency Water & Fire Remediation


ServiceMASTER of the Berkshires
ServiceMASTER of Columbia County, NY

O Spring

oupons
Special Art, Culture & Entertainment
imes.com/cand Health & Wellness Features
reT
shiat
Visit
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com
erkus
www.OurB
kshires
in the Ber

ENJOY
Subscriptions / Our BerkshireTimes Magazine

Dont miss a single issue! Enjoy the convenience of home


delivery with a year-round subscription. Our BerkshireTimes
magazine is independently published, locally grown (in
the Berkshires since 2009), and offers six print issues per
year starting each February. We print on high-quality, gloss,
80# FSC certified paper with soy ink. Every vibrant living
focused issue is read by locals and visitors alike, and is also
permanently displayed and continuously viewed online on
our website as well as on several national sites. Most of our
editorial content is contributed by community members, and
we welcome your editorial and artistic contributions. Share
your passion! To subscribe, go to our website and press the
subscribe button on the home page. (413) 274-1122,
www.ourberkshiretimes.com / $5.95 per issue
(billed in bimonthly installments via PayPal)

413-445-5678
800-707-1441
Licensed
Bonded
Insured

800-707-1441

24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

EMERGENCY ON CALL SERVICE


Emergency Water Damage Remediation
Locally Owned
Emergency Fire, Soot and Smoke Remediation and Operated.
House Wide and Post Construction Cleaning Floor Maintenance
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Animal Debris and Odor Clean Up
Mold and Odor Remediation Sewer and Septic Clean Up
We Will Use Green Cleaning Products Upon Request

Certified & Trained Technicians With More Than 15 Years Experience.

3 Westview Road, Pittsfield, MA

www.ServiceMasteroftheBerkshires.com
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

13

My First Tree House /

built my first tree house when I was about six years old, right
after I built my first birdhouse. I only had two short boards,
some rusty nails in a can, and the little carpentry set I had
recently gotten for my birthday. I chose a tree across the street in a
vacant lot where we all played. It had two large branches that forked
straight out on one side about 20 feet up. It was the perfect spot to
start a tree house. The only trick was how to get up there.
I dont know where the idea came from. It could have been
one of those old Tarzan movies or any number of places. Maybe
I had seen Robinson Crusoe doing something like it. Anyway,
there I was, six years old and climbing that almost limbless tree
with one end of a rope tied around my waist and two boards, a
hammer, and a can of rusty nails tied to the other end.
I made it! But as soon as I got everything up there, I dropped
my rope. At first I didnt think much of it. I laid the two boards
across the limbs and began nailing away. Suddenly and without
warning the wind picked up and the tree swayed side to side. I let
go of everything and down went my hammer, nails, and one of my
boards. It probably only moved a few inches but it felt like several
feet. I grabbed a limb and held on for dear life. When I looked
down, what was only 20 feet before was now at least 200 feet away.
A powerful sensation overcame me at that moment and told me
that I was going to fall out of that tree and break my little neck. I saw
my entire six years flash before my eyes in an instant! I dont know
if it was my mother screaming and crying, or the Holy Ghost, or all
the neighbors crying, but something told me dont let go! I hugged
that tree so tightly that I can still smell its bark to this day.
My poor mother! Im not sure how long I was really in that
tree, but my memory tells me it was quite a while before my dad
got home from work. And it didnt take him very long either
before he convinced me that falling out of that tree wasnt nearly
as bad as what was going to happen to me if he had to climb up
there and get me! So, I came down just exactly as I had gone up
and I never went up that tree again.

Backyard Heirlooms
Architectural Sculptures
Functional Garden Art ` Tree Houses
Custom Birdhouses ` Kid Scapes

525 Main Street


Great Barrington, MA
413.528.3095
Follow us on Facebook
Open Sat & Sun from 10am-5pm
atbackyardheirlooms@gmail.com

14

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

By Allen Timmons

But it didnt stop me from building tree houses. I just learned


from my mistakes as I got older. You ask, what did I learn from this
experience? Several things. First and most importantly, the only
thing worse than fear is more fear! Second, screws work better than
nails when building tree houses. And last but not least, dont ever
get yourself into something you cant get yourself out of!
Making a living from your creativity has got to be one of
the most satisfying experiences imaginable. I feel so grateful and
so blessed to be a part of this life. I love what I do and I hope
that you do to! ~ Allen Timmons, Backyard Heirlooms, Great

Barrington, MA, www.facebook.com/backyardheirlooms

Q & A with Allen Timmons


Q: Allen, please tell us more about Backyard Heirlooms.
A: I design and build one-of-a-kind custom heirloom-quality
architectural sculptures. These include but are not limited to
birdhouses, doll houses, playhouses, and tree houses.
Q: How did you get started?
A: I have been doing this since I was six years old, but it didnt
become my profession until the birth of our daughter in 1992.
That first look into her eyes changed our lives forever! She and
my wife inspired me to greatness, so that year I brought my work
before the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen and became
the first state-juried member in their history in my medium.
Q: What do you offer?
A: I bring dreams to reality! I have a unique talent and ability that
allows me to see very clearly my clients dreams and vision. I love
working with them and helping make these various projects come
to life. I offer 52 years of passionate experience in my craft plus 24
years as a professional. All my work is signed and dated and of the
best quality anywhere in the world. Oh, and I love what I do!
Q: What is your philosophy?
My wife, Nancy, and I live a simple life. Were blessed with many
wonderful friends and every day we meet and make new ones. I
believe that you get out of life what you put into it. We should
never expect to receive more than we give and we should always be
willing to give what we have. I am the richest man in the world!
Q: How can our readers find you?
Backyard Heirlooms is located at 525 South Main Street in
Great Barrington, across from the Wainwright Inn. Were
open Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10 to 5pm and by
appointment. (413) 528-3095, atbackyardheirlooms@gmail.com.
I am also on Facebook and will soon have a brand new website.

home & garden

Sisters Used Furniture


Small Shop, Big Savings!

Commercial Residential Industrial

Automatic Gates
Security Control Specialist
Free Estimates
Credit Cards Accepted

Jungle Gyms!

at our Sheffield location

Sheffield: 413-229-9900 Pittsfield: 413-443-4515


Two Locations! www.berkshirefence.com

We're back and open for the


season on Friday, May 6, 2016!

Always Buying! (413) 274-9900


Spring Hours: Thurs-Sat 11-5, Sun 12-4

402 Park Street, Rte 183


Housatonic, MA 01236

www.sistersusedfurniture.com

THE SMART SOLUTION


FOR DOING LAUNDRY
No Need for Detergent or Hot Water
Makes Clothes Softer Warranty
Clean Without Bleach Earth Friendly
Whiter Whites Brighter Colors
Made in the USA No Maintenance
Better for Sensitive Skin

383 North Street, Pittsfield, MA www.aerusonline.com


(413) 442-1544 | (413) 743-0985 | (802) 442-9560

In Business Since 1881

Hanging Baskets
Planters
Annuals
Cemetery Boxes
Geraniums Perennials

In-season fruits
& vegetables,
Vegetable
plants,
garden accessories & more!

500 OFF
PURCHASE OF
$25 OR MORE

With Yankee Clipper Coupon Only. Expires 9/2

Ave., Pittsfield 413-443-7180


736 Crane Ave., Pittsfield736
413-443-7180
Crane Ave, Pittsfield736
Crane
(413)
443-7180
Locally
owned
West Road, Adams 413-743-3896

West Road, Adams 413-743-3896


business
since 1881! West Road, Adams Under
(413)
743-3896
the Gazebo
on Frank Consolati Way, Lee
Under the Gazebo on Frank Consolati Way, Lee
Open Fridays Only from 10am - 3pm
Open Fridays Only from 10am - 3pm

Gazebos
Picnic
Tables
Sheds
Childrens
Gym Sets

Picnic Tables
Childrens
Visit us
Gym Sets

Gazebos
Swings
Sheds
Benches
Sheds Picnic
Picnic
Tables
Gazebos
Benches
Tables

Swings

Play
Sets
Swings
Swings Childrens Gym Sets
Sheds
Chicken
Coops MA
Route 8 Cheshire,
Benches
(413)
One &
Two743-9964
Bay Sheds

Toll Free
(866)
One
& Two
Bay411-7433
Garages
www.berkshiresheds.com

8 Cheshire, MA
on Route 8 Route
in Cheshire,
MA
(413) 743-9964
(413) 743-9964 TollToll
Free
(866)
411-7433
Free (866)
411-7433
www.berkshiresheds.com
www.berkshiresheds.com

Berkshire Photovoltaic
Services, BPVS

46 Howland Avenue, Adams, MA 01220


www.bpvs.com
413-743-0152
Berkshire
Photovoltaic
Services, BPVS
Solar Energy Industries Association.

46 Howland
Avenue,
01220
Association,
Solar Energy
Business Adams,
AssociationMA
New
England,
MA LIC
#s HIC131996,
CSL of
73150
Member:
American
Solar Energy Society,
Northeast Sustainable Energy
Tel.
413-743-0152
www.bpvs.com

MA LIC #'s HIC131996, CSL 73150

All the Fun Summer Stuff


Your Gazebos
Yard Could
For!
Benches Ask
Picnic Tables
ShedsFun
Swings
Childrens Gym
Sets
All the
Summer
Stuff
Gazebos Benches Picnic Tables
Sheds Ask
Swings
Childrens Gym Sets
Your Yard Could
For!
Gazebos Benches

efficient and reliable.

electric
systems
userdesigns,
friendly,
SBPVS
incesolar
1985,
recognized
for are
careful
provencomponents
componentsand
andhigh
highquality
qualityworkmanship,
workmanship,
proven
Sincesolar1985,
recognized
for
careful
designs,
BPVS
electric
systems
are
user friendly,
efficient and reliable.

rr

MA LIC #'s HIC131996, CSL 73150

413-743-0152
www.bpvs.com
Member:Tel.
American
Solar Energy Society,
Northeast Sustainable Energy
Association,
Solar Energy Avenue,
Business Association
New01220
England,
46 Howland
Adams,ofMA
Solar Energy Industries Association.

Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, BPVS

Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, BPVS


46 Howland Avenue, Adams, MA 01220

Route 8Habitat
Cheshire, MA
Native
Restoration
(413) 743-9964

restoring balance to nature

Toll Free 1-866-411-7433 (shed)


www.berkshiresheds.com

Wetlands Woodlands
Meadows Fields
Route 8 Cheshire, MA
(413) 743-9964
Toll Free 1-866-411-7433 (shed)
www.berkshiresheds.com

Invasive Plant Control Pollinator Habitat


Forestry Mowing Wetland Restoration

(413) 358-7400

www.nativehabitatrestoration.com
Licensed in MA CT NY VT

Open
7
Days

Tel. 413-743-0152 www.bpvs.com

Celebrate
Our Forty-fourth Year!
MA LIC #'s HIC131996, CSL 73150

S Wonderful Things

ince 1985, recognized for careful designs,


proven components
andSelection
high quality
workmanship,
Largest
of Yarns
BPVS
solar
electric
systems
are
user
friendly,
and Unique Handcrafted Gifts in the
Berkshires
efficient and reliable.

Gift Certificates
rS
r Free Knitting Lessons

Open
Mon-Sat
12-4Energy
Member: American
Solar Energy
Society,9:30-5,
Northeast Sun
Sustainable
Association, Solar Energy
Business
of New England,
Harry
and Association
Debbie Sano
Solar Energy
Industries
Association.
232 Stockbridge
Road,
Great
Barrington, MA 01230
(413) 528-2473 www.wonderful-things.com
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

15

home & garden

The Magical World of the Mineral Kingdom


CRYSTALS HAVE A NATURAL BEAUTY THAT ENHANCES JUST ABOUT ANY ENVIRONMENT / By Monark Crede

he beauty and healing properties of crystals have been


appreciated, recognized, and utilized by human beings
for millennia. Ancient civilizations were generally more
in touch with the earth and the natural world than we tend to be
in todays society. But a resurgence of interest in more natural
and harmonious ways of living, health, and healing, has brought
about renewed interest in the mineral kingdom in recent years.
We know from basic physics that everything and everyone is
made up of energy. Even what science used to believe were solid
particles at the atomic level are actually now being recognized as
energy. And what differentiates a human being from a tree or a car
or a bird is the frequency at which each of those things vibrates,
how fast or slow the energy that makes up those things pulses at
the atomic or molecular level. It is somewhat like a heartbeat, but
encompasses the entire being or thing.
Crystals vibrate at specific frequencies that can be beneficial
to humans as well as to animals and plants. When we bring
crystals into our environment, whether it be in the home, office,
garden, or even vehicle, the vibration of the crystals affects the
vibration of all living beings in that environment: our family,
animals, plants, even visitors. Generally, the closer the crystal,
the more effect it has on ones being. For instance, a crystal that
emits the vibration of a healthy heart, when brought near ones
heart, may assist the heart in becoming more healthy, because
the heart may begin to match the vibration of the crystal, and
actually move into a more healthy state of being. The vibration
of the heart begins to resonate with the vibration of the crystal.
You dont even have to believe in the healing aspect of a crystal
to receive the beneficial effects. Crystals have a natural beauty
that enhances just about any environment, and every time you
look upon a beautiful crystal and appreciate its beauty, that can
be positive and healing, in and of itself.

Selenite
A great crystal for the home, or most any environment, is Selenite.
It has a variety of natural forms, and is also shaped and polished
into forms such as spheres, pyramids, and spirals. Selenite lights up
any room, both physically and energetically. It has a chatoyance, a
glow, when light hits it, that is quite beautiful. Energetically, Selenite
can be very clearing of stagnant and negative energies in the home,
as well as in ones own personal energetic field, or aura. It can
help to raise ones personal vibration and the vibration of ones
environment, lending a feeling of crispness and positivity.

Shungite
Another crystal that has been used for millennia for health and
healing is called Shungite. It comes from one location, in western
Russia. Shungite is made up of complex carbon molecules called
Fullerenes, named after the visionary Buckminster Fuller, because
16

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

they resemble the geodesic domes that he designed. They look


similar to hollow soccer balls. Shungite is an amazing crystal. It
somehow neutralizes the negative effects of electromagnetic fields,
or EMFs, and microwaves from ovens and cell phones. It is healing
and vitalizing, and may be used to clean and vitalize drinking water.
It has been used in Russia on a commercial scale to filter water
since the 1990s. Shungite was extensively researched in the former
Soviet Union, and proven to be physically, mentally, and emotionally
healing! There is evidence it may have come from a massive meteor
that created the lakebed where it is found. One variety of Shungite
is shaped into different decorative and functional forms; another
is more practical for personal use, and to clear and vitalize water
for drinking and watering plants. It is an excellent stone for both
potted and garden plants, physically as well as energetically.

Azeztulite
An exciting and relatively new crystal discovery that has an
exceedingly high vibration is Azeztulite. It is a form of quartz
that can only be differentiated from regular quartz by its higher
vibration. Azeztulite is a crystal for these times of rapid change,
and the need for humanity to heal on many levels, so that we may
create a more harmonious society and world. We all have issues
to be resolved and healed, whether they be physical, mental, or
emotional. Azeztulite assists in healing on all levels, and as we
resonate with it, it can assist in raising our vibration frequencies,
and literally help to raise us to a whole new level of existence! It can
be so powerful that balance and slow integration of the energies
are recommended. Otherwise one may become overwhelmed
with the high energy of Azeztulite. And the Azeztulite family of
crystals is growing, as more varieties are being discovered.
Crystals can be remarkable tools for change and healing, as well
as lending beauty to our lives. Sometimes, a crystal can take one
over a threshold, and assist in a seemingly miraculous change in
health. Other times, slow and steady gets you there. If you are
curious about crystals, take some time to explore the magical
world of the mineral kingdom from a metaphysical perspective.
You may be pleasantly surprised with what you experience.
~ Monark Crede has been a student and
practitioner of alternative and complementary
healing modalities for 25 years. He is a Certified
Holistic Health Practitioner with the American
Society of Alternative Therapists, and the
proprietor of The Crystal Butterfly - Healing
Crystals & Therapies, located in the Renaissance
Arts & Wellness Center in the Jennifer House
Commons, 420 Stockbridge Road (Route 7)
in Great Barrington, MA. (413) 717-8267,
healingcrystalbutterfly@gmail.com. Follow him
on Facebook and see his ad on page 23.

home, garden & landscape

Turquoise
Citrine

Amethyst
Shungite

Selenite

Chalcopyrite - Bornite

Pyrite

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Himalaya Gold Azeztulite

June | July 2016

17

food & drink

Grilled Shrimp with Tzatziki


(CUCUMBER YOGURT DILL SAUCE) / From Guidos Kitchen

uidos Kitchen (Guidos Fresh Marketplace in Pittsfield and Great Barrington), brings you this delicious dish that serves four.
Grilled Shrimp with Tzatziki is perfect for an easy, light summer dinner or a nice traveling dish to Tanglewood. For more
amazing recipes and valuable information, visit www.guidosfreshmarketplace.com.

Ingredients

Instructions

For the Tzatziki Sauce

For the Tzatziki Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt*


1 cup -inch cubes European cucumber
3 tbs. chopped dill
2 tbs. fresh lemon juice

For the Shrimp

2 tbs. chopped shallots


1 tsp. chopped garlic
1 tbs. olive oil and more to brush grill
1 lb. uncooked large shrimp, deveined, tails left intact

Mix yogurt, cucumber, dill, and lemon juice.


Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

For the Shrimp

Preheat grill to medium-high. Brush grill with oil. Toss


shrimp in chopped shallot, garlic, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Grill just until shrimp are opaque in center, about three
minutes per side.

*Greek yogurt is nice and thick and is available in zero, two percent, or full fat your choice! If you use non-Greek yogurt (which
has a higher water content), the sauce will still be delicious, but it will have a thinner consistency.

Espresso Scones Hand Pies Soup


31 main street, stockbridge, ma
413.298.7271 info@sweetsavourymain.com
www.sweetsavourymain.com

NORTH EGREMONT
COUNTRY STORE
NEWLY EXPANDED DELI - FOOD MENU!

Wholesome Homestyle Delicious


SoCo Ice Cream Local Free-Range Eggs
Milk Liquor Beer Wine Pastries
Lotto Post Office Fishing Bait
Photo by John Phelan

Mon-Thu: 6a-7p Fri-Sat: 6a-8p Sun: 6a-4p

Route 71, North Egremont, MA (Near Prospect Lake)

Call (413) 528-4796

18

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

food & drink

entres
available

D-e-e-licious!
Tues-Sat dinner only 150 Main St., Lee 413.243.6397 cheznousbistro.com

Pittsfield & Great Barrington, MA


guidosfreshmarketplace.com

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

19

Now or
ng f
i
l
l
o
r
En
17
0
2
6
201
ion
s
s
i
m
Ad

expl ore
Engaged learning for children
ages 15 months through 8th grade
Call or visit online to schedule a tour.
413.637.3662 BerkshireMontessori.org

education & workshops

recently observed a Montessori teacher give a lesson on the


water cycle. After the lesson, a nine-year-old sat with paper
and pencil, sketching plans and designs. Hed periodically look
about the room for supplies, sometimes checking in with the teacher
to vet an idea, or talk with peers about what might work best. At
the end of this exploration, he created a structure complete with
a hot plate, funnels, straws, measuring scoops, containers, sand,
and water that replicated the water cycle process of evaporation,
condensation, precipitation, surface runoff, and ground water.
This students creation was impressive, and throughout his
process, those around him offered help and celebrated his success.
His classroom community allowed him to have an idea and see it
through to completion.
Bringing a vision into reality takes determination, perseverance,
and a fair amount of focus. Ultimately, a supportive community is
instrumental for success. Well over ten years ago, when The Montessori
School of the Berkshires (MSB) was not much more than a sketch of
an idea, so many people offered encouragement and validation.
Our school environment has been changed as we have brought vision
into reality. From our first Childrens House classroom of three-to
six-year-olds, weve added our Elementary program, an additional
Childrens House classroom, and (knowing that we needed more
space for Adolescent and Toddler programs) we found our current
site and built a 9,000-square-foot facility, which opened in 2010.
We have always been looking beyond where we are: how to
evolve, whats next, what will be best for families, staff, and
students. We find ourselves using our current space creatively

and to full capacity. For more than a year now, we have been
going through a creative, in-depth process involving our board,
facilities committee, staff, and parents to develop ideas for the
next phase of MSBs success.
We are currently breaking ground on a 7,300-square-foot addition.
This project will be executed in two phases, and completed by
September 2017. Expansion Phase I includes a multifaceted
adolescent classroom, additional office space, a library, visual
arts studio, and interior renovations of the existing building.
Expansion Phase II includes a multipurpose area, a performing
arts space, an athletics field, and added parking.
To fund this expansion and other strategic initiatives needed to
take MSB from startup mode into maturity, we are launching Go
Beyond, a comprehensive capital campaign to raise $2.95 million.
We are thrilled to report that, thanks to the board and other early
donors, we are 86 percent of the way to our goal, and will be
raising the remaining $411,000 over the next five years. We are so
grateful for a supportive community and the many people who
have supported and who continue to support a vision of vibrant
Montessori education in the Berkshires.
~ K. Meagan Ledendecker is the Director
of Education at The Montessori School
of the Berkshires. Meagan cofounded the
school ten years ago with her husband,
Todd Covert. You can find the most current
information about this expansion and our
Go Beyond campaign on our website,
www.berkshiremontessori.org.
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

21

home & garden

deliciously raw

HONEY IS A UNIQUE AND DELICIOUS BLEND


OF HEALTHY NUTRIENTS / By Russ Wilson

s a beekeeper, I am always asked the question


Is your honey raw? My answer is that the
honey is pure, unheated, unpasteurized,
and unprocessed, but I do place it through
a coarse-screened mesh to remove parts of bees, comb, and
wax. Some want all the pieces in it and only consider that raw.
Some beekeepers will heat it but wont go over 118 degrees so
vitamins and enzymes are not lost (all enzymes are deactivated at
a wet-heat temperature of 118 degrees). Healthy raw honey has
a creamy appearance. Pasteurized, ultrafiltered, processed honey
(which may contain detrimental glucose syrup, antibiotics, dyes,
flavors, and flavor enhancers, in addition to the bees being fed
sugar products) is far from the health-promoting powerhouse of
its raw unpasteurized counterpart. Raw, honey is a unique and
delicious blend of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants
with many health-promoting attributes.
It is normal for raw honey to contain particles of bee pollen and
bits of propolis. Propolis is contained in many products we use,
even teas for a sore throat or strained vocal cords, but its most
important role is acting as the honeybee hives immune system.
The bees fill holes and coat the hive with bee pollen and propolis
to protect it from disease and cold.
Raw honey has been used for thousands of years for burns
and minor abrasions. There is a growing belief amongst natural
health experts that raw honey from
local flower and tree sources
is extremely beneficial
in treating seasonal
allergies like

hay fever. Joggers, bicyclists, hikers, and athletes use it as a snack


to receive a boost of energy. More and more people are eating
honey before they go to bed because they find it relaxing. Parents
are having their children use raw honey on toast, mixed with fruit,
or just plain, rather than eating sugar. Honey is taken to relieve
sore throats, coughing, and colds.
In addition, speakers at the First International Symposium on
Honey and Human Health presented a number of research papers
about raw unpasteurized honey and the findings included that raw
honey (from bees that were not fed sucrose) is filled with helpful
friendly bacteria (six species of lactobacilli and four species of
bifidobacteria); it may actually help promote better blood sugar
control and improve vascular health; it boosts immunity and
improves wound healing when applied topically; and its antibacterial, offers free-radical prevention, and can help lower high
cholesterol. However delicious and healthy, honey is still a sugar and
60 calories a tablespoon, so it needs to be eaten in moderation.

Save the Date for a Celebration of Our Greatest Gifts


Children, Honeybees and Native Pollinators
Berkshire County Beekeepers and Bees Across Massachusetts
present a celebration of our greatest gifts Children, Honeybees and
Native Pollinators at Sheep Hill in Williamstown on July 16, 2016.
Sheep Hill is presently the site of research being conducted by Bees
Across Massachusetts, whose goal is community education while
studying mites, pesticides, and poor nutrition that are contributing
factors for honeybee loss. Presently in the project there are hives
stretching 50 miles from Berkshire School in Sheffield to Sheep
Hill in Williamstown following the Route 7 corridor. The first
hive was placed at Berkshire School and senior Evan Liddy
was instrumental in its placement with the schools mission of
providing an environment to help honeybees, butterflies, and
native pollinators while planning pollinator gardens and planting
a new orchard. The goal is to continue from Sheep Hill in 2017
and end in Boston with the final hive placement near the State
House for another 130 miles. Beekeeper Russ Wilson started the
project four years ago and believes it will take about eight more
years to finish if all goes well.
Camp Vision, a summer and after-school program through
the Pittsfield Public Schools for visually impaired students in
continued on page 24

22

health & wellness

for general well-being

Naomi Alson

LIC. ACUPUNCTURIST & HERBALIST

ACUPUNCTURE AND HERBS CAN HELP

For general wellbeing . . .

cupuncture is a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine


that helps stimulate one or more points in the body to promote
the flow of Qi (internal energy). Numerous studies support the use
of acupuncture in reducing symptoms such as depression, facial
pain, headache, peripheral neuropathy, lower back pain, nausea
and vomiting, neck pain, postoperative pain, shortness of breath,
chronic fatigue, hot flashes, and side effects caused by radiotherapy
and/or chemotherapy, as well as infertility.

With specialized training in:


Alleviating the side effects
chemotherapy
Infertility Herbal treatments
Regulating the immune system

At Lee Family Practice, Lee, MA

(413) 243-3223 naomifalson@gmail.com

moving & healing arts


INTEGRATIVE HEALING BODYWORK & MOVEMENT

ing Lash, Somatic Movement Therapist, believes in


the innate intelligence of the whole person. Ming provides
an informed, safe presence, and listening hands and heart,
to encourage relaxation, coherence, and wellness. Supportive
therapies include GYROTONIC exercise, creative movement,
experiential anatomy, flower essences, and use of grounding and
Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field mat, for improved emotional and
physical health and well-being. Classes and workshops available.

crystals and more!

THE CRYSTAL BUTTERFLY


Healing Crystals & Therapies

RELAXING, REJUVENATING, AND HEALING ATMOSPHERE

he Crystal Butterfly Healing Crystals & Therapies offers


an abundance of beautiful healing crystals and handmade
jewelry, from local to global, and a variety of original creations
by local artists . . . natural rough and polished crystals, pendants,
bracelets, necklaces, earrings, tote bags, pillows, clocks, collages,
and more! Free crystal consultations. Explore the magical world
of the mineral kingdom from a metaphysical perspective! Contact
us at (413) 717-8267, healingcrystalbutterfly@gmail.com.

Healing Crystals & Jewelry


Reiki & Crystal Reiki Sessions
Holistic Counseling & Therapies
Crystal Workshops

Monark Crede

Certified Holistic
Health Practitioner

Visit us inside the Renaissance Arts & Wellness Center


420 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA

413-717-8267 healingcrystalbutterfly@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/thecrystalbutterfly

HAVE YOU HEARD?

andelions (Taraxacum officinale) deserve more


respect. For those in the know, they are revered
for their medicinal and nutritious properties. Dandelion
roots, flowers, and leaves are all edible (assuming they
have been organically raised). They are a rich source of
vitamins A, B complex, C, and D, as well as minerals such
as iron, potassium, and zinc. They can be juiced with
carrots and other nutritious vegetables, placed in salads
to add a tasty bite, made into soups as the French do,
or into a delicious wine. Dandelions are the least bitter

when harvested in the early spring. And in traditional


medicine, dandelion roots and leaves are used
to treat liver problems, kidney disease,
swelling, skin problems, heartburn,
and stomach upset. And as if thats
not enough, many of us share the
fond memory of being the recipient of
a backyard bouquet of these cheerful
flowers (the first gift ever given in
total adoration) from our little ones.
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

23

deliciously raw
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

summer programs over the years along with their parents,


grandparents, families, friends, school, and community.
Berkshire County, has adopted a beehive at Sheep Hill that
is being used in the research study. Sheep Hill was a chosen
site thanks to Executive Director Leslie Reed-Evans and
the camps mission to preserve, promote, and educate while
providing responsible land stewardship for insects, plants, and
animals and providing educational programs to schools and
the community.
The students from the Camp Vision Program will provide
activities with braille, a tactile art project of a bee, guided
hikes under blindfold to experience their world outdoors, and
a discussion of guide dogs and technology. They want the
public to participate in the project by marking drones from
their hive so they can be followed through their life cycle in
the project. More importantly, the students want to thank
those individuals and organizations that have supported their

There will be demonstrations on making mead, candle making,


and honey production, and observation hives with the different
races of honeybees. There will be presentations for the more
experienced beekeepers and also those thinking about becoming
beekeepers. State Bee Inspector Ken Warchol will demonstrate a
hive inspection evaluating mites, health, and honey stores. He will
provide recommendations for summer management techniques
in preparing the hive for fall and winter. Northern Raised Queens
will be available through Queen Breeder Antoine Fahey and
honey will be for sale to support Camp Vision and Sheep Hill.
~ Russ Wilson is a beekeeper in Berkshire County doing research on
honeybee diseases, mites, pesticides, and poor nutrition, which are all reasons
for our honeybee declines. He runs classes, presentations, and workshops
through Bees Across Massachusetts. For information or to sign up, email
beesacrossmassachusetts@gmail.com or berkshirecountybeekeepers@
hotmail.com.

no more allergies, guaranteed!


THE ORIGINAL TREAT-YOURSELF-AT-HOME NATURAL KIT

ou may be afraid of hay fever season each year or suffer from


frustrating food allergies and not know what to do about it.
The Allergy Kit the first treat-yourself-at-home kit is a simple
way to eliminate allergy symptoms for the entire family.
Allergies have become epidemic, and we now know that many
disorders and discomforts, like headaches, backaches, joint pain,
and body aches, are often caused by undiagnosed allergies. But
now you can build up your immune system by eliminating the most
common food allergies and other irritants using The Allergy Kit.

The Allergy Kit is similar to other, very expensive treatments but


our affordable kit has the added advantage of flexibility, privacy,
and convenience in an easy, do-it-yourself treatment.
Start feeling better and more energized, be more regular, have
less bloating, fewer headaches, sinusitis, or ear infections. Get rid
of cravings, fuzzy thinking, and memory loss. Start to feel alive
again! If your kids or you suffer from ADD or ADHD, you will
see a difference. The Allergy Kit could be the beginning of a new
life and a new lifestyle for you and your family.

The Allergy Kit

No More Allergies, Guaranteed!


The original Treat-Yourself-at-Home natural kit.
Make the first step on your way to a healthier you.
Visit our website and receive a free histamine vial with
the purchase of a Premium or Deluxe kit.
Use coupon code: FreeHist

TheAllergyKit.com

(954) 667-6637
24

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

health & wellness

gold inlays & crowns


BIOCOMPATIBLE AND HYPOALLERGENIC

r. Jay Wise and Dr. Casey Jones are proud of their gold
restorations. While not suitable for every application, gold
inlays and crowns are time-tested and have many advantages for
restoring back teeth. It is the most conservative (less reduction of
tooth structure) of any available crowns. Gold is biocompatible
and hypoallergenic. Under heavy chewing pressure, gold is strong
but not brittle it will not break or cause the tooth to break. The
gold standard . . . with regards to teeth, it is really true!

happy customers
AND EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE

endy Streeter of Wendy Optical is a licensed optician


with 25 years of experience fitting happy customers with
beautiful frames and lenses in the Berkshires. Come in and see her
fashionable summer styles. Progressive, single vision, high quality,
and affordable frames in many shapes, styles, and colors. If you
need your glasses repaired, cleaned, or adjusted you can expect
excellent customer service. Located conveniently on Elm Street
in Pittsfield, MA (next door to the Clip Shop).

DR .
Dr.

J a y
W i s e ,
D D S
Casey Jones, DMD

33 Park street, suite 6, lee, ma 01238


( 4 1 3 ) 2 4 3 - 1 2 2 2 D r j ay w i s e d d s .c o m
T h i s i s wh e r e h e alt h , b e au t y
a n d we l l b e i n g b eg i n .
T hat s O Ur B u s i n es s .

ndy
WeOPTICAL

Wendy is a licensed optician with


25 years experience fitting happy
customers with beautiful frames and
lenses in the Berkshires.
REPAIRS | CLEANING | ADJUSTMENTS
56 Elm Street, Pittsfield, MA
413.445.5700
Wed-Sat 10am to 6pm

www.wendyoptical.com

optimal function
OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE FOR NEW HEALTH TODAY

oldman/Tripp Osteopathic Healthcare offers traditional


osteopathic medicine, a gentle, hands-on, noninvasive, yet
powerful approach to healthcare based on the essential relationship
in all living things, practiced by fully licensed U.S. physicians.
Traditional osteopathic medicine works hand-in-hand with the
essential biology and physiology of your unique body and clinical
health to optimize your health and well being. By helping your body
to restore and renew all the natural structural function throughout
all of your body from bones to muscles to organs to nerves to
vessels and the connective tissue matrix that unites the anatomy
of your body osteopathic medicine helps restore and renew your
own vital health and well-being in harmony with what nature has
established as optimal human anatomy and physiology.
The human body is one of natures most beautiful and intricate
systems whose health and healing depends on the primary
relationship of structure and function. Traditional osteopathic
physicians are unique in practicing medicine based on this
fundamental relationship from nature a vital, comprehensive
approach to your health that is unparalleled in todays world of
complex health challenges.

gol dm an / tripp
osteopathic healthcare
As osteopathic physicians, we use our comprehensive knowledge of
anatomy and physiology to promote health and healing. We work gently
with our hands to help your body restore optimal function based on
optimal structure to help solve musculoskeletal problems
and health issues of all kinds.
As fully licensed physicians, we have all of the full and current medical
pharmacopeia, nutritional science and medical training at our disposal.
Your individual treatment may include a wide range of approaches,
but is always founded on our gentle hands-on work.
Andrew M. Goldman, DO, Osteopathic Physician
Kim E. Tripp, DO, PhD, Osteopathic Physician
www.goldmantripp.net
Great Barrington, ma 413-528-3334 | Sharon, ct 860-364-5990

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

25

health & wellness

Blue Light

THERE IS MORE TO IT THAN MEETS THE EYE / By Berkshire EyeCenter

lue light is everywhere. It has a wavelength of between


approximately 380nm and 500nm, making it one of the
shortest, highest-energy wavelengths. In its natural form
from the sun, it has a healthy effect on your system. Researchers at
Bostons Brigham and Womens Hospital, Philadelphias Thomas
Jefferson University, and others have found that exposure to
blue light during the day provides higher levels of alertness and
reduction to fatigue, quicker reaction times, greater attention
spans in performance tests, elevated moods, better immune
function, and an increase in the feeling of well being.
Artificial blue light from digital devices like TVs, computers,
smartphones, tablets, electronic devices, and energy-efficient
fluorescent and LED lighting, however, is another story. We all
love our screen time and the ability to use lights after dark, but did
you know that the blue light emitted from these devices is harmful
to your eyes? Studies show that prolonged exposure to this type
of light may cause retinal damage and contribute to age-related
macular degeneration, which can lead to loss of vision. Exposure
to artificial blue light (including electronic devices as well as energyefficient fluorescent and LED lighting) may also disrupt your sleep
pattern and cause digital eyestrain syndrome.
The good news is that we can help. We are the Blue Light

Specialists! We offer several types of protection Rhythm blue


light reflecting glare-free coating available on most lens designs
and materials, Blutech Lenses that have built-in protection, and
Cobalt Clear protective lenses with no tint, available in standard
and thinner lens options. ~ See our Facebook page and our website for

more helpful tips and information. www.berkshireeye.com

Come Visit Our New Location!


Berkshire Eye Center is pleased to announce the grand opening
of our new location at 409 Stockbridge Road (Route 7) in
Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Our new office will allow
us to provide our patients with complete ophthalmology care.
We will be doing comprehensive eye examinations, contact
lens examinations, and testing and minor procedures on site.
We will also have a full-service optical dispensary that carries a
wide selection of designer frames and sunglasses as well as the
most technologically advanced lenses. With the addition of Dr.
Joseph Gold and Dr. Diane Singer, Berkshire Eye Center now
has 10 qualified physicians and specialists. We are the leading
ophthalmology practice in Berkshire County offering complete
one-stop eye care. We look forward to serving you!

409 Stockbridge Road (Route 7), Great Barrington, MA


Complete Ophthalmology Care
Comprehensive Eye Exams

GREAT BARRINGTON
409 Stockbridge Road
(413) 591-8452
PITTSFIELD
740 Williams Street
(413) 445-4564

Contact Lens Examinations


On Site Testing and

Minor Procedures

VALATIE, NY

Full Service Optical Dispensary

2967 Route 9
Hannaford Plaza
Ste 402
(518) 758-9276

Wide Selection of Designer

Frames and Sunglasses


Technologically Advanced Lenses

Grand opening of new location


in Great Barrington, MA!

WE ACCEPT MOST
INSURANCE.

(413) 591-8452 www.berkshireeye.com


26

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

health & wellness

what is seniors helping seniors?


ITS LIKE GETTING A LITTLE HELP FROM A FRIEND / By Jane Apkin M.A. CCC-SLP

need us for anything from transportation to


companionship for as little as one hour, one
time, or as much as 24/7 support.

eniors Helping Seniors is the lowestcost, highest-quality, insured, licensed


provider of nonmedical in-home care in
Western Massachusetts. What makes Seniors
Helping Seniors different?

We have no contract or minimum use


requirement - Unlike most home care service
agencies, we dont require a contract from
anyone using the service. Once the free initial
assessment is complete, you can use us as you

Staff - We hire only active, compassionate


senior care Providers who have an intrinsic
desire to help others. These are people who
might otherwise volunteer, but wouldnt
mind making a little money for their time
and effort. Our Providers come from all
walks of life; the one thing they have in
common is a true desire to help.
Match - We match each helper based on
personality. We return to make the initial
introduction at the start of service. Once
weve made a good match, we work to
keep the same Provider(s) on the case. This
extra effort and personal attention fosters
camaraderie and enhances the likelihood
that our clients feel comfortable with the
care Provider in their home.

In-home service
by SENIORS for SENIORS
No contracts, no minimums, & reasonable rates.
Call Jane Apkin for a free in-home assessment.

Its like getting a little help


from a friend
(413) 822-9988

www.SeniorsHelpingSeniors.com/Berkshires

sunscreen
IS YOURS FILLED WITH CHEMICALS?

e all know that sunscreen will help


lower our risk of skin cancer and help
prevent premature signs of aging. Sunscreen
should be simple apply it daily and you
are protected. Unfortunately there are more
issues to consider. Does it contain harmful
chemicals? At Lenox Village Integrative
Pharmacy we know that some sunscreens
contain oxybenzone, which disrupts normal
hormone production. If the sunscreen is
chemical free, are the ingredients considered
nanoparticles? Nanoparticles are so small
that they can enter the body and bloodstream
or can be inhaled in a spray. Is the sunscreen
broad spectrum? In other words, does it
protect from both UVB and UVA rays? At the
current time, US regulations do not require

sunscreens to offer any UVA protection, but


UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin than
UVB, and will cause immediate suntan, not
sunburn. UVA also generates free radicals in
living skin, which contribute to skin damage,
wrinkling, and skin cancer. Is our choice of
sunscreen harming the environment? Several
common chemicals found in sunscreen
are harming the worlds living coral reefs.
Between 6,000 and 14,000 tons of sunscreen
wash off swimmers, scuba divers, and
snorkelers into coral reef environments each
year. Even more sunscreen pollution can
reach coastal areas via wastewater discharges.
Up to 10 percent of the worlds coral reefs
may be threatened by certain chemicals
found in most sunscreens. Many coral reef
parks and swim-with-the-dolphins aquaparks
now mandate that their patrons use only
mineral-based natural sunscreens. So, what
sunscreen passes all of these tests? Look at
Badger products and their testing.
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

27

Old Age A Myth!

EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK THINK AND FEEL YOUNGER


By Nina Anderson

our fiftieth birthday arrived and guess who knocked


on the door? AARP! Yup now you knew you were
over the hill. But, you still didnt feel old, so what is
that all about?
If you made it through your fifties you had another milestone:
sixty. And with that came the realization that your employer might
be looking to boot you out in a few years. You hope this will
not happen until you reach that magic age when the government
starts paying you back all that money that theyve been taking
from you in the form of social security. Sixty is when you start
looking harder at the gray hairs popping out and at the smile
lines that seem to grow deeper in your face every month. During
your sixties you find people laugh about your frequent senior
moments and you find its harder to keep up with your younger
running buddies. You notice your waist is a little bigger and the
flesh under your arms waves in the breeze a little more, but youre
not old are you?
What causes aging? It all starts in the brain, and if the head
cant send the right message, the body doesnt know what to
do. Some of the problems you may get if you dont support the
neurotransmitters and brain health are brain fog, fatigue, insomnia,
anxiety, mood disorders, and hormonal imbalance. These are bad
enough when you are forty, but in your sixties people will just
say they are a condition of getting old and dismiss you. The first
thing you must do to support this chemical interaction in the
brain is to hydrate it with clean, filtered water unless you have a
pure water source. To this water must be added back the trace
minerals (preferably in ionic form) that the brain needs to send its
messages to the body. This is a key ingredient in supporting good
brain health and getting the right electrical messages to the body.
Brain health also depends on a good supply of essential fatty
acids, phospholipids such as phosphatidylserine, curcumin to
stave off inflammation, and exercise. Learning new things such
as a language, and memorizing and employing the use of brain
games on the internet can keep those neurotransmitters firing.
Another factor in accelerating aging are telomeres, the caps at the
end of each strand of DNA that protect it, like the plastic tips at
the end of shoelaces. Telomeres shorten each time a cell divides
and act as a clock that signals cells to age. But you can help stop
this process by activating an enzyme called telomerase. When
human cells are exposed to telomerase it slows cellular aging,
and allows cells to begin copying again. One of the ingredients

28

June | July 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

that can help telomere regeneration is found in astragalus


compounds. I actually started taking this and the big side effect
I noticed is that it curbed my stress; thats why I call it my happy
pill (www.longlifenews.com). The astragalus and L-Theanine in
this pill support serotonin, which is our feel-good hormone.
Another factor in causing us to age is the reduction of Human
Growth Hormone (HGH) in the body. This is a naturally
occurring substance that is secreted by the pituitary gland. As we
get older, production gradually slows over time. The downside
is that when HGH is delivered through injections, the body is
flooded with too much HGH, which may cause the pituitary
gland to stop secreting natural growth hormone. Homeopathic
growth hormone forms (HhGH) are safer and more efficient
because these small doses, when administered frequently, allow
the pituitary gland to increase production naturally, which allows
near complete absorption. Studies revealed that oral HhGH
actually facilitated energy increase, weight loss, improved vision,
increased libido, improved sleep quality, improved breathing,
improved skin softness, and lowered systolic blood pressure.
Yet another factor in aging is your thought process. How you
think is how you act, but more than that, what lies in your
subconscious can create pitfalls for you or keep you thinking old.
Many of your beliefs about aging may have been programmed
into your subconscious during childhood and carried forward to
today. Realize that this picture can be changed if you really want
it to. The premise is that something happened that caused your
subconscious brain to respond in a way that your conscious brain
may not be happy about (like being afraid of becoming a burden
in your old age). A neurolinguistic practitioner (NLP) can help
reframe that trigger response and either reduce or eliminate the
unwanted reaction. If you have trepidation about going forward
with your life in your seventies or eighties, maybe reframing the
subconscious can help you move that wall or make it something
you can now walk through. To get a free copy of Nina Andersons
ebook, Think and Feel Younger, go to her website, www.antiaginglady.com,
and click on the menu tab EBOOK.
~ Nina Anderson, SPN, is a Neurolinguistic
Practitioner and is working with Eric Von Zon,
DC, in Great Barrington, where she specializes in
the analyses of health-related indoor environmental
pollutants. She is the author of 18 books on natural
health and is a frequent workshop leader.

mind & spirit

heilaa Hite
Intuitive Counselor

Featured in Paulette Coopers directory,


THE 100 TOP PSYCHICS in AMERICA

Tarot Astrology Palmistry Psychometry


Mediumship Past Life Regression
Hypnotherapy Life Coach

JAN HEALEY, RN
Palliative Planning
Animal Communication
Mediumship

Consultations in Person, by Phone or Skype


Classes, Parties and Events

413-637-0085

SHEILAAs accuracy rate is 95-100%.


MANAGER

MALIBU SHAMAN BOOKSTORE MALIBU, CA

www.SheilaaHite.com

(646) 284-5992 janhealey2@gmail.com www.janhealey.com

Join Us for a

Do you enjoy writing?


Share your passion!
Send in articles for
consideration through
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com.

Sedona & Monument Valley Odyssey


October 2-7, 2016
. . . and the end of all our exploring will be to
arrive where we started
and know the place for the first time.
Experience the perfect reminder that there is
still accessible magic and wonder in the world.

Our Odyssey Includes


Unique Sedona Shaman Ceremony
Guided Meditations at Sedonas Most Powerful Vortexes
Healing Ceremony at Monument Valleys Ear of the Wind
Countless Serendipitous Wonders!

For More Information

For full itinerary, pricing, and more information, call


(413) 637-0085, www.SheilaaHite.com.

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

29

have you heard?

PCB Dumps in the Berkshires


HELP PROTECT OUR BEAUTIFUL BERKSHIRES DO YOUR RESEARCH, GET INVOLVED, AND TAKE ACTION!

ccording to local sources, General


Electric Company (GE) plans to
dredge PCBs from the Housatonic
River and has proposed to dump these
extremely toxic manmade chemicals in
various designated locations (some of
which they have already purchased) in the
towns of Housatonic, Lee, and Lenox. These sources state that
once these designated toxic waste dumps are established U.S.
legal waste sites, the dumps will become open game for other
large corporations to dump their waste.

Are PCBs Really That Bad?


PCBs are known carcinogens and there is no safe exposure level.
PCBs are volatile chemicals (they become airborne and can travel
miles from waste sites, affecting entire communities health and
property values) that are known to cause cancer, motor skill and
neurological delay in children, and thyroid disease, and disrupt
healthy hormone functions. For more information about the
effects of PCB exposure go to www.tinyurl.com/jxcfgw5.

30

June | July

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

What You Can Do


Please educate yourself and your neighbors about the risks
of PCBs to your family and our community.
Go to the links below to find out more about the current
situation in the Berkshires.
Read and sign the petition at www.nopcbdumps.com.
Know that local environmental groups and concerned
citizens have the power to impact the EPAs decision to hold
GE to a comprehensive cleanup of the Housatonic River.
Contact local and state officials to oppose the PCB dumps.

For More Information, To Sign the Petition,


Recent Articles, and Meeting Updates
www.nopcbdumps.com
www.facebook.com/HousatonicRiverInitiative
The Housatonic River Initiative: www.housatonic-river.com
The Berkshire Edge: www.tinyurl.com/zyeub4f
The Berkshire Edge: www.tinyurl.com/jmu5ncu
www.thebeatnews.org/BeatTeam/ge-pcbs

featured advertisers

BensDotters Pet Wellness Series


A trio of free
events you wont
want to miss!
Hosted at BensDotters Pet
in Great Barrington.

10:00am Sunday, June 12, 2016


Dr. Richard S. Patton PhD
THE SCIENCE AND DOGMA OF PET NUTRITION

An education for life.


Toddler
Childrens House
Elementary
Adolescent
Summer

10:00am Sunday, July 10, 2016

Now
enrolling for
2016-2017
admission

Dr. Brian Wessels BVSc M.Med


CLINICAL NUTRITION

10:00am Sunday, August 7, 2016


Kristina Tina Dow BS
A LAYMANS GUIDE TO RAW-FEEDING YOUR PET
BerkshireMontessori.org

Weekly tours by appointment

(413) 637-3662

Rave Reviews!
As I stand in my new kitchen and
bathroom, admiring the work done, I
am extremely pleased! I want to thank
Ray and Mike for the outstanding job
done. Their expertise, craftsmanship,
and professionalism was superb.
~ Gloria
What a wonderful crew you sent to
install our new windows and slider!
They worked as a team with each
crew member knowing his job and
performing it efficiently with little
disruption to our household. The men
were professional, efficient, friendly,
helpful, and responsive to requests.
~ Bob & Stephanie
We are so pleased with our new
windows from Morrisons Home
Improvement. They are energyefficient, well made, and beautiful!
The office staff and the crew that
did the installation are just like our
windows . . . Top Notch! ~ Claire

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

June | July 2016

31

You might also like