the Local Life

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

Off Duty

Summer is the loveliest—and also hands-down busiest—season, especially for those whose jobs are in the culture sector.

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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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PICKLEMANIA!

Pickleball gets under your skin in the best possible way. Inside the Berkshires’ fastest-growing, good-for-you obsession.

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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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A Seat at the Chocolate Symphony

Discover the story behind Chocolate Springs in Lenox, where chocolatier Joshua Needleman layers artistry and passion into every creation. From Earl Grey truffles to on-site production, this beloved café is a Berkshire destination for locals and visitors alike.

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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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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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Off Duty

We asked some of our talented local leaders what they’re hoping to see, do, and eat this season when they’re not at work. You’ll want to use their recs to inspire your own beautiful Berkshires summer.

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The Parade Marches On

A Pittsfield tradition since 1801, the city’s Fourth of July Parade continues to unite generations. Once marked by veterans’ marches and civic pride, today it shines with music, floats, and community spirit. This year’s theme: Red, White, Blue and You.

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Ali Louis Bourzgui: From the Berkshires to Broadway

Back on March 28, Ali Louis Bourzgui, a shy, heart-throbby, 24-year-old crowned with a whirlwind of dark, curly locks, stepped out from the subway and onto one of the world’s most iconic crossroads—42nd and Broadway, in Manhattan. Within a few hours, he would yield to the inevitable: his dreams coming true. That evening, he debuted in the title role in “The Who’s Tommy,” at the Nederlander Theatre in the heart of the Times Square theater district.

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Head of the Class

Hats off to Karema Almeida of Karema Deodato Millinery—or, rather, hats on. She combines old-world craftsmanship with a modern sensibility for handmade hats that are effortlessly wearable.

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Prints Charming

Bon Dimanche may mean “Good Sunday” in French, but any day’s a good one to stop by this eclectic new gem on Railroad Street in Great Barrington. Calling it a store doesn’t begin to capture the je ne sais quoi of the place, which is equal parts retail establishment, art installation, and studio.

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