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

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.

A mysterious 1958 photo from Pontoosuc Lake in Pittsfield has resurfaced—and The B is asking the Berkshires community to help identify the boys behind this nostalgic local moment.


An insider’s guide to the Berkshires’ most exciting cultural events of the season.

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.

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

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

We found this circa 1954 photograph of Norman Rockwell in The Eagle’s archives.

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.

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.

Often called the diva of Berkshire County, this singer has performed all over the world—but calls our stages home.

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.

By Felix CarrollPhoto above by Jesse Wendelken Back on March 28, Ali Louis Bourzgui, a shy, heart-throbby, 24-year-old crowned with a whirlwind of dark, curly

A singer who’s settled here shares what it’s like to perform in our intimate and authentic venues.

Our columnist shares her family’s routine for a beautiful evening on the lawn (and you’ll want to borrow these ideas).

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.

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.

After 13 years, our columnist shares the secret of what went wrong with his nuptials—and in the end, what really matters.

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.

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

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.

Eileen Shiffrin—herself a masters ski racer, not to mention the celebrated longtime coach of her daughter, Mikaela Shiffrin—developed her passion for the sport and outdoor adventure right here in the Berkshires.


supersisters™, the first trading cards featuring women of achievement, has Berkshire ties.

Mikaela Shiffrin is a legend at age 28, the best ski racer of all time.

A native of Pittsfield, Heidi Voelker joined the U.S. Ski Team at 15 and competed in the 1988, 1992, and 1994 Olympics. After 27 years as a ski ambassador for Deer Valley, she’s still in Park City, Utah, with her family, and is now the western region manager for the U.S. Ski team. Voelker also played a pivotal role in Mikaela Shiffrin’s story—and she shares it here.