Feb-Mar 2016 vol 24

(35)

Complimentary

Our BerkshireTimes

Local Events | Art & Culture | Vibrant Living | Home & Garden

Love Is in the Air / Visit us at www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February - March 2016

Our BerkshireTimes
PUBLISHERS
Kathy I. Regan
publisher@ourberkshiretimes.com

Contents

Kevin J. Regan
kevin@ourberkshiretimes.com
_______________

EDITORIAL
Kathy I. Regan
editor@ourberkshiretimes.com

8
10

TO ADVERTISE CONTACT
Our BerkshireGreen, Inc.
P.O. Box 133, Housatonic, MA 01236
Phone: (413) 274-1122
advertise@OurBerkshiretimes.com
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com
_______________

14

Food For The Soul

by Deb Koffman, Artist
www.debkoffman.com
Deb Koffman is an
artist, illustrator, writer,
and teacher. She
also hosts an open
mic on the first
Tuesday of every
month at her gallery
in Housatonic, MA,
where anyone from
the community can share their poems, songs,
and stories. For more information about events
and her work visit www.debkoffman.com.

b
"There are two basic motivating forces:
fear and love. When we are afraid, we pull
back from life. When we are in love, we open
to all that life has to offer with passion,
excitement, and acceptance."
~ John Lennon

education & workshops

SIMPLE PLAY

18

love is in the air

animal talk

GIFT GUIDE
BEYOND CHOCOLATE
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

20

mind & spirit

home & garden

20

health & wellness

LOVING A SENIOR DOG

SMART STUFF

FOR THE LOVE OF STUFF

DESIGN
Magazine Design/Layout
Kathy I. Regan
_______________

COVER ILLUSTRATION

16

EVENT SAMPLER

Rodelinde Albrecht
rodelinde@gmail.com
Copyeditor/Proofreader
Rodelinde Albrecht
_______________

art, culture & entertainment

22

food & drink

A NECESSARY OF LIFE
RECIPE

INTERVIEW WITH KEN ROHLA

23

fashion & beauty

beyond the berkshires

featured advertisers
THANK YOU!

COMFORT & STYLE

This publication is printed with soy ink on environmentally
friendly Forest Stewardship Council certified paper.

Our BerkshireTimes

Like Us On

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
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All content in Our BerkshireTimes is
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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.

Food For The Soul

by Deb Koffman
www.debkoffman.com

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

art, culture & entertainment

late winter event sampler

"The flowers of late winter and early spring occupy places in our hearts well out of proportion to their size."
~ Gertrude S. Wister

Couples Bodywork: Thai for Two

with Your Sweetheart!
Date: Friday, February 12, 2016
Place: Eastover Estate & Retreat, 430 East
Street, Lenox, MA - (866) 264-5139
Rub your partner the right way this
Valentines weekend and rediscover the
pleasure of loving touch. Delight your
beloved with a blissful massage. Surprise
yourself with how easy and satisfying it is
to give soothing Thai stretches and Shiatsu
acupressure points for energy and relaxation.
www.eastover.com/ken-nelson-february.html
Music by TEN
at Berkshire Music School
Date: Tuesday, February 16, 2016, 4pm
Place: Berkshire Music School, 30 Wendell
Avenue, Pittsfield, MA - (413) 442-1411
Price: $10. Showcase of BMS faculty and
students as part of Downtown Pittsfield

10x10 Festival, Taft Recital Hall. From jazz to

classical to rock. www.berkshiremusicschool.org
Pollinator-Attracting Landscapes . . .
Beyond the Garden Border
Date: Saturday, February 20, 2016, 1-3pm
Place: Berkshire Botanical Garden, 5 West
Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA (413) 298-3926. Price: Members $20,
Nonmenbers $25 (registration required).
Landscape and habitat designer Tom Sullivan
offers practical advice for making a landscape
welcoming to a variety of beneficial insects
and pollinators. www.berkshirebotanical.org
Growing an Organic Vegetable Garden
Date: Starts Monday, March 7, 2016, 6-9pm
Place: Berkshire Botanical Garden, 5 West
Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA (413) 298-3926. Price: $230 full course.
Get a deeper understanding of soil and

nutrient management, seed selection, crop

rotation schemes, bed preparation, seed
sowing and planting, pest management, and
specific plant cultivation. Each week, the class
will investigate a different vegetable family to
ensure that all questions are answered about
cultivation of these important crops for the
home vegetable gardener. March 7 to April 4,
2016. Mondays. www.berkshirebotanical.org
Save the Date!
Afternoon Tea & Fashion Show
Date: Sunday, April 24, 2016, 1-4pm
Place: Copake Community Center, Mountain
View Road, Copake, NY. Enjoy a relaxing
afternoon tea and stylish fashion show this
April. The event is organized by Lynne
Chmurzynski, owner of Mirror Mirror Clothing
Consignment & Retail Shop in Hilldsale, NY.
For more information call (518) 325-4000,
www.mirrormirrorclothingshop.com.

Free programs September through July

visit our website for listings ~ all are welcome

Celebrate Our Forty-third Year!

Wonderful Things

Largest Selection of Yarns

and Unique Handcrafted Gifts in the Berkshires
Gift Certificates S Free Knitting Lessons
Open Mon-Sat 9:30-5, Sun 12-4
Harry and Debbie Sano
232 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230
(413) 528-2473 www.wonderful-things.com

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

The Hotchkiss School

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

love is in the air

SHOP LOCAL

giftguide

ROMANCE IS IN THE AIR!

SAVOR

Chocolate Gift Box / Chocolate Springs

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

chocolate gift box assortment this Valentine's Day. Chocolate Springs is a European-style
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. Buy online or visit Chocolate Springs Caf in person at 55 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, MA.
(413) 637-9820, www.chocolatesprings.com. $5-$50

PAMPER

BeautyPrepTM Moisturizer / Face Haven

Prep. Set. Go! Optimize the benefits of the jane iredale mineral makeup you
love with this high-performance BeautyPrepTM daily moisturizer designed to help makeup go on
smoother and last longer. This beautifully formulated lemongrass-scented product is designed to
make it easy to nourish and protect your skin. Face Haven offers all services related to makeup
including bridal and special occasions, color matchings, makeovers, consultations, and lessons for
every level. Visit Face Haven at 323 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA, for customized service and
superior products. (413) 528-4053. $45

DECORATE

La Urna Romantica / Campo De' Fiori

Choose La Urna Romantica The Romantic Urn when the occasion

calls for a touch of elegance and when the potential for romance is in the air. This charming centerpiece
is often the favored choice of well-respected floral designers. We hope youll agree. Come visit with us
at Campo de Fiori and witness our wide selection of mossed terra cotta planters, cast stone critters,
forged iron garden accessories, candles and gilded potpourri, furniture, distinctive lighting, and books.
Mention this ad now through March 31st and receive a 15% discount.
(413) 528-9180, www.campodefiori.com. $78

/
Sweet romantic ideas . . .
Recreate your first date. Maybe it was dinner and a movie,
a ball game, or a walk on the beach create a setting that will
bring back fond memories and feelings.
Bake something delicious. Make your loved one feel
special with home-baked goodness. Try a new decadent
dessert or an old favorite, and take the time to light some
candles when you serve it. Consider trying a recipe for a
savory bread or pie. The aroma alone will help set the stage
for a cozy evening of romance!

Leave a small present on the dashboard of her car. It

need not be a big present its the surprise and thoughtfulness
that count in romance. Consider a gift certificate to her favorite
gourmet coffee shop, a small stuffed animal, or a chocolate
flower. Dont forget a pretty gift bag and bow!
Replace the bookmark of his latest novel with tickets to
a concert or a movie, a love note (dab on a little of your sensual
perfume), a poem, or an invitation to dinner.
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

love is in the air

Beyond Chocolate
LIFE IS TOO SHORT AND LOVE IS TOO PRECIOUS
By Rodelinde Albrecht

y mother used to object to my

calling my husband Baby.
It diminishes him, she would
insist. He is a big strong man. But I knew
better. To me, a baby is a being you cherish
and nurture and treasure, and thats how I felt
about Jack. I wanted him to know it.
Conveying love is such a tricky proposition.
Its hard to believe that something so pure
and gentle can be so scary to share. The
most vulnerable moments of our life can
be while trying to speak those three simple,
extraordinary words. And sadly, some decide
never to take the plunge.
But if there were ever a risk worth taking,
especially
at this time of year, its
making sure that special
someone knows. Being
certain that
we are loved can
mean everything. Its so easy to begin to doubt
such things. Maybe being reminded of how
vital it is can make us courageous enough to
get the creative wheels turning.
Love is as love does. Its the action that
really sends it home. Buying a card or sending
flowers is always going to be better than
nothing, but with just a few more steps in a
slightly more creative direction you can really
light someones life up for a moment or two.
Youll never regret it.

It was her
compassion that was
so pretty.
Close your eyes. open your heart. concernedsingles.com
6

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Skywriting is always nice. But if your crop

dusters in the shop, think along the lines of
the guy on YouTube who stayed up all night
writing I love you, Kathy in the backyard
with his footprints in three feet of February
snow. (She cried.) Or the hundreds of gorilla
suits rented on Valentines eve. (They laughed
and then cried.) There have been burly men
whove cooked souffls for the first time and
ladders flung up and climbed for a kiss through
a window. Its the doing thats never forgotten.
So this year, touch someone. Whatever you
think youre saving it for, this year think again.
Life is too short and love is too precious. So
get online and buy that plane ticket and show
up at her door. If it cant be a plane ticket then
make it a train ticket, even a bus ticket. Heck,
grab a backpack if you have to. But go to her;
shes waiting. Clean his house from top to
bottom and let him find you up to your ears
in bubble bath. Secretly learn to dance for one
nights date. Break a few rules, leave it on the
field, shout it from the highest mountain.
This year let it all hang
out. Baby.
~ Rodelinde Albrecht is the
director and a cofounder of
Concerned Singles. Contact
Rodelinde at (413) 243-4350.
www.concernedsingles.com

seeing without eyes

NOT A GLOSSY PROFILE PIC FOR MILES

n this instant everything world theres one real secret

left. You can find real love by listening to your heart first.
At Concerned Singles, members discover one another from
the inside out, over time, learning about character and caring
first, slowly, politely, delightfully. If you don't hurry love its
amazing how long it can last. All it takes is a bit more patience
and an open heart. Come, discover us. Stay. Let something
beautiful happen. www.concernedsingles.com

love is in the air

unique jewelry & gifts

CONTROLLED FIRE CAN CREATE BEAUTIFUL THINGS!

f you love unique jewelry and gifts, this little shop is for you!
Cheshire Glassworks is a hidden gem. This artist-owned
studio and gallery has everything from glass earrings, bracelets,
and rings, to whimsical glass sculptures and vases. It is the perfect
place to find a one-of-a-kind gift for yourself or a friend. Each
piece is created by local artist Jill Reynolds using handmade glass
and sterling silver. Stop in for a truly unique shopping experience!
jill@cheshireglassworks.com, www.cheshireglassworks.com

enhance your ritual

WITH NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

etting ready for a romantic evening? Preparing your skin is as

important as finding the right dress. Everyday stress can do a
number on your skin, so at Face Haven weve just made life a little
easier with three simple steps. Prep. Set. Go!

BeautyPrepTM Face Cleanser, Toner, and Moisturizer is a trio of

high-performance skin care products that work to optimize the
benefits of the mineral makeup you love. These lemongrassscented products prepare and protect your skin so makeup goes
on smoother and lasts longer. BeautyPrepTM Face Cleanser and
Toner attained ECOCERT certification, so you know these
products love the earth as much as they love your skin.
Face Haven has been providing quality cosmetics in Great
Barrington, MA, for 12 years, and owner Sherie K. Ross says,
Our focus is on service and providing the ultimate jane iredale
mineral cosmetic experience. Face Haven offers all services
related to makeup including bridal and special occasions, color
matchings, makeovers, consultations, and lessons for every level.
Sherie guarantees they can transform your look in minutes and
transition you from day to night in seconds.

the gift of relaxation

COME AND FEEL THE DIFFERENCE REIKI CAN MAKE

his Valentines Day, or any day throughout the year, give

the gift of relaxation, serenity, and increased well-being
from White Light Healing. Enjoy a 60-minute reiki session and
unblock the areas that are preventing you from experiencing true
joy and love. This investment in yourself or your significant other
is worth it. Come and feel the difference a reiki session can make
in your life. Evening appointments available. Contact Sheri Biasin
at (413) 822-2070, or sheribiasin@hotmail.com.

Prep. Set. Go!

Beauty Begins Here with BeautyPrepTM

Optimize the benefits of the mineral makeup you love with our
high-performance BeautyPrepTM daily micellar water cleanser,
daily toner, and moisturizer designed to help makeup go on
smoother and last longer.

Face Haven, 323 Main Street,

Great Barrington, MA | (413) 528-4053

White Light Healing

Sheri Biasin, Reiki Master

* intuitive guidance * angel cards
Increase your life force.
Unblock energy.
Create a feeling of serenity & improve your

overall wellbeing. Experience lasting results.

A unique experience. Gift certificates.

Evening appointments available.

413.822.2070 Do this for yourself, today!

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

home & garden

For the Love of Stuff

CLEVER TIPS TO HELP YOU LET GO OF CLUTTER / By Julie Ulmer

mericans have soft spots in their hearts for their

loved ones, their pets, their vehicles, and most
definitely for their stuff. Since post-WWII days
there has been a love affair with consumption going on in this
country that has only waned in recent years with those interested
in minimalism and the tiny house movement. Millennials want to
be travel ready they dont want all of the material possessions
that their older loved ones are trying to pass on to them, and
they are definitely trying to be more environmentally conscious
of what they purchase. More people are catching on to the idea
of having more experiences and fewer material belongings.
Couples who may have fought about who gets more closet
space and the number of decorative pillows on the master bed
are realizing they dont need as many clothes, and those pillows
are pesky when it comes to making the bed. Its still true that
most arguments in relationships revolve around money, but as
a professional organizer Ive worked with plenty of clients who
bicker with partners about messy garages, packed basements, and
attics heavy with castoff possessions. Crowded spaces affect every
household member including children who have trouble picking
up their bedrooms and play spaces because of the abundance of
toys, books, games, and stuffed animals. Children who arent used
to occasional purges end up having difficulty making independent
decisions about belongings as they age.
When Im helping clients declutter there are several keywords
I use to help them identify their true feelings about belongings.
We talk about passion, treasures, positive energy, respect,
commitment, and love. A spouse often wants the other to change
their ways, which really has to come from within. So, all we can
do is create logical systems, set an example, and appreciate any
attempts at supporting everyones goals. Here are some tips to
help you let go of possessions that arent useful and dont make
your heart go pitter-patter:
I ask myself four questions about a belonging to identify if
its a keeper. Do I use it? Do I need it? Do I want it? Do I love it?
Most of us get hung up on whether we need something because
after all, we cant predict the future. Then I consider whether
that item could be easily replaced or borrowed, or something else
could do the same job. Remember, want is different from have.
Do I have to have an essential oil diffuser? No. I could find other
ways to diffuse oils.
Oftentimes there are sentimental reasons or a sense of
obligation attached to our belongings. Things are handed down
or gifted to us and therefore we have to honor those presents
forever and ever. Nope! Once something is given to us, its ours
and as the owner of said item, its up to us to do whatever we
see fit with it. If its something you use, need, want, or love,
8

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

great! If its sat in a cupboard or on a shelf for years, think about

embracing the intention that the gift was given with, and sending
it on to another home. You might be able to donate it, offer it to
someone you think might want it, even toss or recycle it. I think
regifting is fine if youre considerate about it.
When you are considering donating something, I suggest
identifying whether you are giving a charitable organization a gift
or a curse. Out-of-date reference books, board games missing
pieces, and 25-year-old Tupperware are curses. Books in good
shape that dont smell musty from being in a basement, shoes
that are almost like new, and gently used home goods are gifts.
Dont yuck another household members yums. Unless
their stuff is causing harm, duress, crowding out areas of daily
living, or breaking the bank, respecting someones collection of
antique salt cellars or baseball cards is only fair. If their collecting
or just general accumulation is eating up lots of square footage, it
may be time to find better homes within the home or declare some
areas no-clutter zones. In other words, pick your battles. When my
daughter was a teenager, her room was like a disaster area. I did
everything I could to show her how order is better than chaos, to
no avail. Finally I realized it was a losing battle. I set some criteria:
no food; a pathway had to be kept clear of obstructions at all times;
if she lost something in her room, it was up to her to find it; and
the door needed to be shut. When she went off to college she
became very aware of her dorm mates constant mess and how
little space they both had to share. She started turning around her
thinking about clutter and is now a neatnik!
Lastly, lets think about the ones we truly care for and
the legacy that we will all eventually leave behind. When a loved
one passes thats difficult enough to deal with; imagine being
responsible, on top of dealing with grief and arrangements, to
have to make sense of a home filled with drawers, cupboards, and
shelves stuffed and overflowing. Baby boomers have dealt with
trying to disperse of their parents estate and I hear over and over
I dont want to leave a huge job like that for my kids. Proactive
planning is a substantial act of love. Its preventing a huge burden
and is the ultimate gift the gift of peace of mind.
~ Julie Ulmer is a professional organizer who
founded Minding Your Manor in 2003. Julie
is a member of the National Association of
Professional Organizers, the Institute for
Challenging Disorganization, and the Columbia
County Chamber of Commerce. Please visit her
website at www.mindingyourmanor.com or call
(518) 821-4682.

home & garden

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food & drink

a necessary of life
WINE IS AS SACRED, AS COMPLEX, AS PROFOUND,
OR AS SIMPLE AS YOU WANT IT TO BE
By Xavier Letteron

homas Jefferson once referred to wine as a

necessary of life. I am sure he wasnt implying that
we need to drink wine as we drink water: for survival.
But this statement of his, which is mentioned in a
letter requesting a shipment of his favorite Montepulciano, got me
thinking: What is necessary about wine for our life?
What comes to mind when I reflect on this point, for my own
life and in my work as the wine buyer at Nejaimes Wine Cellars,
is wines profound social dimension and sensual potential.
I believe wine is a necessary of life because wine connects
us. It connects us to each other, to something greater than us,
and to a sense of place. Wine is communion. It also lends us the
opportunity to open up our senses, our mind, and our spirit. Wine
is meant to be shared: it then becomes a porthole to a plethora of
experience, social as well as personal.
Wine is as sacred, as complex, and as profound as you want
it to be. It can also be as simple as you want it to be. Tasting wine
will reveal the relationship you experience with your own senses
and self. You can keep the experience a pure, simple pleasure by
casually letting yourself float along tasting/sipping/drinking. Or,
you can dive into the depths of each bottle of wine to make the
experience complex, interesting, and educative. The key is to keep
it fun and enjoyable. Something I love about my job is to make sure
that wine is never intimidating or inaccessible. I often hear I dont
know anything about wine. My philosophy is that everyone who is
willing to dive into the experience of trying/tasting can witness what
wine has to offer them.
So much of our enjoyment of wine has to do with where we
are, who we are with, and what we are doing. I think of Thomas
Jefferson and his Montepulciano: where he was, who he drank it
10

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

with and, even further, how many aspects of the founding of this
country were inspired by a glass of that very same Italian juice.
I personally love the experience of tasting wine more than I
like drinking it. Tasting different wines is like . . . having different
friends! They each bring something unique to your life and you
like them for different reasons. And, like friends, you may have
your favorites (but keep this to yourself about the friends, I
mean you can tell me what your favorite wines are!).
The way a wine is made and where its from can add
complexities to its flavor and aroma, providing a more elaborate
journey as you seek to discover them. Some wines are more
ethereal, others have a more developed bouquet (aroma), depth,
length, and finish. Regardless, every wine is to be tasted (you
may not want to drink it, but at least taste it . . .), enjoyed, and
honored. Some wines will resonate more with you than others
but the only way to find out is to taste them and see how you
personally experience it. What do your senses say? Thats all
that really matters.
Cheers to a future of sharing fabulous wines!
~ Xavier Letteron, the wine buyer for Nejaimes Wine Cellars in Lenox,
MA, loves coming up with different formats and themes, and collaborating
with wonderful matched venues in order to bring the vast world of wine
to your palate. The sky is the limit when it comes to tasting wine, which
is why Xavier also customizes personalized tastings that you can bring
to your own home to share and discover your choice of wines among
friends and family. Nejaimes offers in-store tasting opportunities every
Saturday as well as larger community tasting events from time to time,
in addition to seminars and wine dinners. Check their website and their
Facebook page for details. (413) 637-2221, www.nejaimeswine.com

food & drink

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-5p Fri-Sat: 6a-6p Sun: 6a-3p

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

Call (413) 528-4796

entres
available

M-m-m-yum!
casual french dining

dinner only 150 Main St., Lee 413.243.6397 cheznousbistro.com

id you know? According to Natural News (www.naturalnews.

com), one of the best and simplest things you can do to stay
healthy is to drink a glass of organic lemon water first thing each
morning. Lemons help digestion (the acetic acid in lemons aids the
stomach in breaking down food). They strengthen immunity (rich in
vitamin C and antioxidants). Lemons are also surprisingly great for
joint health because they can break down and remove uric acid that
can build up in joints, causing pain, stiffness, and discomfort.
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

11

home, garden & landscape

Imnmdm

12

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

home, garden & landscape

e
g
l
u
d ...

mm

Rich, Delicious, Luxurious Hot Chocolate

From Guidos Fresh Marketplace's Own Dietitian, Rachel Alves

Ingredients

Serves 4-6

4 1/2 cups whole milk

4 oz. chopped hazelnuts
Zest of one orange
8 oz. semisweet chocolate chips
1 tbs. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tbs. instant espresso powder (or powdered coffee)
Nutella
Fresh whipped cream
Frangelico or Grand Marnier liqueur
Directions
Heat milk with hazelnuts and orange zest in a medium saucepan over
medium
low heat until just simmering (do not boil), about 10 minutes or so. While
milk
is heating, add chocolate chips to a medium, heatproof bowl.
Remove milk from heat and pour into a sieve over the bowl with the
chocolate chips. Stir until melted. Pour back into medium saucepan and
add
sugar, vanilla, and espresso powder, and stir until smooth.
Heat gently to desired temperature and serve hot. Garnish with a dab
of
Nutella and whipped cream and, for the adults, a splash of liqueur. Enjoy!

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

13

fashion & beauty

comfort & style

are we missing out on the full experience of dressing?

By Anne Lesser and Victoria Wright

orn on New
Yorks Lower
East Side,
current Lee, MA,
resident Dominick
Avellino knew from
an early age that he
wanted to be involved
in the arts industry.
After graduating from high school, Dominick
started designing store windows of boutiques
and quickly moved on to major department
stores. By the summer of 1969, he was creating
intricate and unique jewelry that he sold in
the shop he opened on the Upper East Side.
Dominick then expanded his designs to include
a complete collection of knitwear, sportswear,
and dresses, which he sold to art directors and
luminaries like Cher and Carly Simon.
Under his own label, DDDominick, Dominicks
fashions were featured in semiannual runway
shows, and worn by top models like Janice
Dickinson, Beverly Johnson, and Jerri Hall,
among others. His collections were reviewed in
the New York Times and in newspapers across
the country, and sold in department stores such
as Bloomingdales. Pattern makers like McCalls
would often purchase patterns from him (still
available through places like www.etsy.com) and
ask for suggested fabrics they could recommend
to their customers. Dominick even worked as a
design consultant for the government of India,
specializing in fabric design exports.

14

After closing his business, Dominick decided to

settle in the Berkshires to relax after his fast-paced
lifestyle. Eventually, he decided to offer classes in
fashion design to local school districts. On the first
day of class, Dominick asks his students a series of
thought-provoking questions:
What do you think fashion means?
Do you feel different when youre wearing
something you really like as opposed to
something routine, and if so, what is that
feeling?
Is there a difference between style and trend,
and if so, what is it?
Dominick says, Kids today are just so smart and
creative. We talk about trends being set by magazines
and celebrities, and how they are useful to help
people experiment and find what works for them.
Style, on the other hand, is an innate understanding
of who you are and what best expresses that. Style
doesnt change. Trends change. I feel its important
to teach kids about what theyre wearing, the effect
it has on them and others, and how clothing can
help reveal their personalities. We also talk about
comfort, which does not necessarily mean being
unstylish, but also does not mean carelessly
throwing on jeans and a T-shirt.
The fashion system begins with the calculated
risk-taking by couture designers that invigorates
the whole industry from the top down. I spend
time explaining the process from couture to ready-

fashion & beauty

FACE HAVEN
NATURAL COSMETICS & MAKEUP STUDIO

Our focus is on service and providing the ultimate

jane iredale mineral cosmetics experience. I guarantee we
can transform your look in minutes and transition you
from day to night in seconds. ~ Sherie K. Ross, Proprietor

(413) 528-4053
323 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA
Mon-Sat 10am-5pm

to-wear, to mass and discount markets. Its an interesting

history lesson with some psychology thrown in.
In the last few years I was helping a 98-year-old woman
with daily chores. In conversations we would have, shed
say, I dont feel comfortable if Im not wearing something
that makes me feel good. Despite her age, feeling good and
comfortable included dressing thoughtfully with jewelry and
accessories. She came from a time when the marriage of
comfort and style were the norm. Today, we seem to have
separated them to the degree that we are often missing out
on the full experience of dressing. And yet, with our busy
lives and little free time, the idea of taking a moment to pay
attention to how we look and feel, and what it says about us,
could prove to be even more rewarding.
Having said all this, its not to say that there is not a real place
for jeans and sweats. Its when we make it our only alternative
that we miss out on other levels of comfort and style that
could be a more interesting place for us to experience.
Dominick now offers two types of classes, one focused
on repurposing used clothing where students can make
their mark on a jacket or shirt using appliqu, embroidery,
or painting on a garment, which gives them the feeling of
creating something that is totally their own expression. The
other class is designed to create a fashion show on paper,
choosing a season and colors for four groups of clothing:
sportswear, knitwear, dresses, and evening wear. Dominick
says The results of prior classes have been astonishing.
When parents came at the end of the session to view the
sketches, so many people commented that the work looked
almost professional, a sentiment I proudly share.

MIRROR
MIRROR
Clothing Shop
(Consignment
& Resale)

Presents . . .

Afternoon Tea
& Fashion Show
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Join us 1:00 to 4:00 pm
Held at the Copake Community Center
Mountain View Road, Copake, NY

(518) 325-4000

The proceeds to benefit the Taconic Hills

Elementary School Backpack Program and
Churches Assisting Neighbors (C.A.N.)

www.mirrormirrorclothingshop.com

Dominick can be reached at dddominick1414@gmail.com.

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

15

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

Simple Play

ARE YOU A RULE-ENFORCING, TABLE-MANNERING,

NITPICKING HARBINGER OF DOOM?

By K. Meagan Ledendecker

fter realizing that my children seemed to consider

me a rule-enforcing, table-mannering, nitpicking
harbinger of doom, I decided to flip through
my copy of Playful Parenting by Lawrence J. Cohen PhD. As I
browsed back through the chapters, I tried to remember how
we all benefit when I step out of a serious adult role and engage
in some simple play.
I have to be honest, though. It doesnt come easily to me, or
to many of us adults. While running an errand with my threeyear-old, I brooded in the car about how I dont play with my
kids. Yet play is precisely how children are able to sort through
confusing emotions, process varied experiences, and build
essential social skills.
Still, the idea of buckling down for some healthy play felt a
bit like getting suited up to sweat it out at the gym.
While worrying about not playing enough, I mulled over
incorporating playtime into my goals. I could already see my
checklist: clean the kitchen (check), go for a run (check), do
the laundry (check), play for 15 minutes (check). Even as I
considered this option, I knew on some level that I seemed to
be missing the point.
Fortunately, my three-year-old broke me out of my
solemnity. I dont remember exactly what he said or did, but
in that moment I realized that even while driving home I could
simply be a little more playful. I could stop making a mental
checklist and instead slip into silly mode. I responded to my son,
pretending to be a goofy, exaggerated, over-the-top grouch with
a deep grumpy voice. He promptly began to erupt into giggles.
Over the next five or so minutes, we had a back-and-forth
playful exchange and even got to joke around with a common
dynamic that comes up for him when he gets frustrated.
Once home, he bounded into the house, excited to continue
the fun with his siblings. I tended to my various responsibilities,
but with a smile on my face and a lightness to my approach.
Play doesnt have to be a chore; rather its choosing to build
closeness with our children by doing something as simple as
following the giggles.
Lawrence Cohen uses giggles as a way to determine whether hes
on the right path towards play. As he states, Following the giggles
means simply that if something makes the child giggle, then you do it
again. Certainly this process is easier with a three-year-old and a bit
more challenging with a twelve-year-old. But the spirit is the same. A
little lighthearted fun and laughter can help all of us come together.

To learn more about Playful Parenting (from someone

really great at it, rather than a struggling novice like me), come
hear Lawrence Cohen speak about playful parenting and the
emotional life of children, on Friday, March 11, from 6 to 8 pm,
at the McConnell Theater in the Daniel Arts Center at Simons
Rock. For more information, contact
info@berkshiremontessori.org or visit
www.berkshiremontessori.org.
~ K. Meagan Ledendecker is the cofounder
and Director of Education at The Montessori
School of the Berkshires, and loves when
children help her reconnect through play. www.
berkshiremontessori.org

Free programs September through July

visit our website for listings ~ all are welcome

The Hotchkiss School

11 Interlaken Road, Lakeville, ct
860.435.4423 | hotchkiss.org/arts
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

17

animal talk

loving a senior dog

IDENTIFY DISTRESS AND LEARN WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP

By Alden Beane

18

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

animal talk

loving a senior dog

SIMPLE THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP EASE THEIR AGING PROCESS

By Alden Beane

he love we feel for our dogs is immeasurable, and watching

them grow old can be heartbreaking. Identifying the
possibility of distress, and knowing what you can do to
help will ease their aging process for both of you.
What are some easy signs to miss? Perhaps your dog has begun to lag
behind on walks. It could be that arthritis and/or muscle tension are
increasingly making your cherished strolls together more and more
difficult for him. Have you noticed your dogs occasional reluctance
to go up the stairs? Maybe he doesnt follow you from room to
room the way he used to? These could be signs of soreness. Its also
common to assume that your dog is just plain getting old and cranky
when, in fact, aches, pains, and general weakness can make him feel
vulnerable, causing him to be less tolerant of normal handling or
playfulness. If youve noticed any of these things and are concerned,
call your veterinarian to set up an exam, and let them know what
youre seeing.
In the meantime, what can you do?
1) If you have wood or tile floors, consider putting area rugs,
yoga mats, or even rubber-backed bath mats down, allowing for
a nonslip surface. When dogs feel likely to slip or fall, theyre less
likely to walk around, and less movement equals more stiffness.

to use his whole body without discomfort or concussive force

through the joints. He can move freely and comfortably, and gain
strength and fluidity of movement. Even if your dog has been
afraid of water in the past, having him introduced properly by a
professional can get him started on the road to having a better
quality of life as a senior. Ask your veterinarian about a facility near
you. As you begin to make some minor shifts to accommodate
your older dog, remember that what he wants most of all is to be
with you - his angel here on earth.
~ Alden Beane lives in West Stockbridge, MA, and
is the owner of True Balance Animal Wellness,
offering veterinarian-referred home visits and
swimming for dogs. Having worked in the canine
rehab and hydrotherapy field since 2000, her
profound love of dogs permeates every aspect
of her life, and she has developed a particularly
soft spot for seniors. If you have any questions,
you can reach her at (413) 429-6879, or visit her
website at www.truebalanceanimalwellness.com.

CARING FOR PETS SINCE 1957

2) Just because your dog is still eager to go on long walks

despite his age, it doesnt mean his body is capable. Keep an eye
on his stamina, and how he feels the day of and the day after a long
walk. If hes slow and stiff to rise, he likely overdid it. For aching
joints, short, frequent walks are much more beneficial than long
walks. For example, for a dog with arthritis, three 15-minute walks
per day will benefit him more than one 45-minute walk per day.

Your trusted source

for quality foods
and supplies.
Your trusted resource
for raw-feeding
information
and advice.

3) If you have access to water, swimming is one of the best

exercises for an aging body. Waters buoyancy allows your dog

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

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

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

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

19

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
Consultations in Person, by Phone or Skype
Classes, Parties and Events

413-637-0085

SHEILAAs accuracy rate is 95-100%.

MANAGER

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www.SheilaaHite.com

Do you enjoy writing?

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

health & wellness

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 .

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

20

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

health & wellness

smart stuff worth trying

Boiron Nux Vomica
Homeopathic Medicine

Temporarily relieves upset

stomach associated with nausea
or fullness due to overindulgence
in food or drink. Available at
Guido's Fresh Marketplace.
www.guidosfreshmarketplace.com

Detoxadine

Detoxadine is a premiumquality, deep-earth sourced

nascent iodine supplement that
helps support thyroid health, the
immune system, breast health,
detoxification, and more. Global
Healing Center's nascent iodine
is the most easily absorbed and
utilized form of iodine available
at www.globalhealingcenter.com.

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

www.gaia.com

Gaia is the go-to place for those

looking to expand their mind, body,
and spirit. You will find exclusive,
informative, and enlightening
programming not available through
mainstream media including a
vast number of exercise, yoga, and
meditation videos; films and series;
exclusive interviews; documentaries,
and so much more.

Stetzerizer Microsurge Meter

Are you concerned about dirty
electric? You should be! This meter
connects directly to your home/office
circuits by plugging into a standard
outlet to obtain an accurate digital
reading of the signal quality on that
line. Stetzerizer filters can then be
used to reduce dirty electric.
www.stetzerizer-us.com

(413) 822-9988

www.SeniorsHelpingSeniors.com/Berkshires

Broccoli Sprouts

How can you beat the amazing

nutrition of full-grown broccoli?
Grow your own broccoli sprouts,
which contain many times the
amount of certain antioxidants.
For more information go to
www.sproutman.com and
www.highmowingseeds.com. And
for fantastic glass sprouting jars
with stainless steel screens go to
www.nowfoods.com.

Real Pickles
Organic Beet Kvass

Delicious and satisfying,

this fermented infusion
of beets, onions, and
savory herbs is valued
for its immune-enhancing
probiotic properties. Sip as
a tonic or add to recipes.
www.realpickles.com
www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

21

beyond
the berkshires

Interview with Ken Rohla

Part 2 / By Kathy I. Regan

s mentioned in Part 1 of this article in our last issue, Ken

Rohla is a natural health educator and inventor from New
Smyrna Beach, Florida, specializing in rejuvenation and
cellular regeneration using raw and sprouted vegetarian
food, herbs, food-based natural supplements, detoxification,
emotional healing, cutting-edge science, and more. I consider him to
be one of the luminaries of our time and appreciate his generosity in
spending time with me for Part 2 of this interview.

Q: We left off discussing how EMF protection devices

cannot be measured with handheld meters. Please tell us
more about the biological tests available that can confirm
their therapeutic value. A: When you use quality EMF protection
devices typically you will notice less fatigue when sitting in front of
a computer or driving a lot. Live blood cell analysis can help you tell
whether these devices are having an impact, because normally when
you hold a cell phone the red blood cells in your body clump. When
you place our Aamoraa EMF protection device on the very same
cell phone while in use, and then perform the live blood analysis
once again, you will see that the red blood cells do not clump.
Q: I've seen various Schumann resonance generators on the
market; can you tell us what the differences are? A: All of
the Schumann generating devices that Ive seen on the market are
electromagnetic in nature, not scalar wave (like the Rest Shield) The
problem with this is that they just dont work that well. Most of them
operate around 15 hertz (which actually adds stress to the body),
not at the desired primary Schumann resonance frequency of 7.83
hertz (which slows the body and brain cells down and destresses
them measurable with biological testing as we discussed).
22

February | March 2016

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

Q: Ken, I know a lot of people are concerned about their

drinking water. What do you recommend? A: The best, but
also the most expensive, solution is the Miracule WaterTM System
(www.miraculewater.com), which creates living energized water as
it purifies. The next best solution is using a water vitalizer (which
I sell on my website) but you must place purified water into it.
Q: Why are Ormus-rich superfoods and supplements helpful?
A: Ormus elements create superconductivity in the body, which
allows everything to heal and regenerate faster. I show people how to
naturally put more of these elements into their food and water, and
they are able to get amazing results. You can start by feeding vegetable
plants volcanic rock powders which are high in these elements, or
you can take sea minerals and vortex them in magnetic fields. Or
you can simply buy Ormus-rich plant food (www.mygrowminerals.
com). Another option is to buy Ormus-containing supplements. I
recommend the book The Enlivened Rock Powders by Harvey Lisle. For
helpful instructions for creating Ormus rich probiotic brews go to
www.downloads.freshandalive.com.

~ Ken Rohla offers literally a wealth of fascinating information worth

investigating. My own experience with his Rest Shield and OrmusiteTM discs
are very positive. Shortly after I started using them I felt noticeably more
relaxed before going to sleep at night. When asleep my dreams are much
more lucid. Interestingly when I have trouble getting to sleep, if I place one
of his OrmusiteTM discs on my chest I drift off very quickly. I'm looking
forward to trying his recommendations. To learn more about Ken Rohla, to
order his products, to watch informative videos on his blog, or to sign up
for Kens free eNewsletter, go to www.freshandalive.com.

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www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

February | March 2016

23