the Local Life

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

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.

Read More »
Firm Foundations

Mother and daughter Linda and Carly Shafiroff have built more than complementary businesses in the Berkshires—they’re creating a family legacy and a vision for the region’s future.

Read More »
Scene Change

Film and fashion power couple Christo Morse and Lauren Gabrielson have created a Stockbridge getaway where family life takes the spotlight.

Read More »
Digging Deep

How a horticulture course helped me reconnect with nature and find joy and meaning in learning again.

Read More »
Cooking from All Four Corners

Celebrated chef David Israelow brings a reverence for food and finely tuned technique to his highly anticipated new restaurant in Chatham, New York. Here’s a sneak preview.

Read More »
Welcome to Hilltown

Rafi Bildner creates an homage to southern Italy, the Berkshires, and the joyful chaos of family, all expressed through the art of pizza.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »

Off Duty

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

Read More »

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.

Read More »

PICKLEMANIA!

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

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
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.

Read More »
limited time offer

Get a free tote bag with your subscription to The B

Available to the first 50 new subscribers with a shipping address in the United States