the Local Life

Meet the people and places that make the Berkshires thrive—community stories, local businesses, and culture with heart.

Finding My Flock

In the Berkshires, keeping chickens is practically a rite of passage. I never thought I’d join in—or have these hens matter so much to me.

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The B’s List: Food Pros

This edition of The B’s List explores the conversation among a selection of culinary professionals in the Berkshires. Read along as they discuss community, life in business, and the inherent agricultural ties in their own practices.

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Off Duty

The busiest Berkshirites need a break! We asked local leaders what they’re excited to do during their downtime—and their lists are packed with music, art, hikes, and good eats. Here’s how they plan to soak up the season. Consider it your guide to summer fun.

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The B’s Next Gen List

Welcome to our new series celebrating people making a mark in the Berkshires. In this first installment, we talk to a new generation of residents fusing tradition with transformation—and breathing new life into our region.

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Growing Up Taylor

In the hills of the Berkshires, Rufus and Henry Taylor were raised with music and meaning. Now they’re finding their own rhythm.

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Home Grown Wool

You can’t make yarn without shearing a few sheep—or in the case of Lila’s Mountain Farm, a few hundred. If you want to keep your crafts truly local, this is one good starting point.

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Mixing Things Up

Recreation, jobs, housing— it takes a creative, multi-faceted approach to revitalize a community. And that’s what Dave Mixer and Mill Town Capital are bringing to Pittsfield.

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Less Is More

A beauty expert pares down—from a natural look to a true minimalist approach—as she discovers what really matters.

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Where Ideas Take Root

With cutting-edge labs, training programs, and a collaborative spirit, the Berkshire Innovation Center ensures that the region’s economy thrives on creativity and discovery.

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Modern Love

Discover the Frelinghuysen Morris House & Studio in Lenox, a rare modernist treasure showcasing art, architecture, and design of the 20th century.

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The Art of Starting Over

Patrick McBride of Tillett Textiles ran the renowned family business in Sheffield for years—and he’s proof that life’s sharp turns can lead to extraordinary new things.

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Suit Yourself

Using skills honed in London’s iconic tailoring houses, Siân Jones is creating bespoke garments right here in Great Barrington.

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Dressing the Part

Berkshires fashion staple Tony Chojnowski, founder of Lenox’s Casablanca and other boutiques, shares timeless shopping advice—from investing in quality basics to choosing pieces you truly love.

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The Church of Crewdson

Renowned photographer Gregory Crewdson and his partner, Juliane Hiam, have deep roots in the Berkshires. Welcome to the sanctuary they call home.

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Robert Hartwell stands in his beautifully designed kitchen wearing a bright pink suit of shirt and slacks.
Home Is Where the Hart Is

When former Broadway performer Robert Hartwell moved to Great Barrington, he brought his talents, style, and joy—and learned about his past while planning his future.

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Monumental Moments

Our region is rich in history that’s captured in statues, memorials, and markers. Don’t just drive or walk by—pause and learn from them. Here’s a look at nine to get you started.

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Room to Grow

Roots Rising has empowered local teens for a decade—and the organization itself is flourishing with a new farm of its own in Pittsfield.

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Building Bridges

Meet Gwendolyn VanSant—local leader in the continued quest to advance equity and justice. Her life’s work is improving the lives of others.

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The Ultimate Creator

Since putting down roots in Williamstown a decade ago, Tu Le has taken on many roles: farmer, chef, florist, designer. Everything he does is about creativity and community—and this summer, he’s everywhere.

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