The Best 2013 - Berkshire Record

MARCH 2013
THE
BERKSHIRE
RECORD
MAGAZINE
The Best
2013
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
1
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The
Berkshire
Record
Magazine
Vol. 1 No. 1
Donna Prisendorf
EDITOR-in-chief
Alexis Prisendorf
Creative & Concept
Dave Coffey
Content Editor
James Grady
Art Director
Introductions By Emily
DeVoti, Joe Roland
Coffey
written By Dave Coffey, David Scribner, Emily Kramer,
Tom Casey, Geoff Smith, Paul Jossier, Alexis Prisendorf
Edited By Dave Coffey, Anthony Prisendorf, D.C. Jones
copy editors: Elise Richman, Laura and Paige Prisendorf
Section Interviews By Dave
Cover Design by Alexis
Prisendorf
Prisendorf, James Grady
art production / layout by James Grady
Inside Photography by Berkshire Record Staff
Spread Designs By Alexis
Sales
Nancy Frisbie, Alexis Prisendorf, Michael Richman
Special thanks to Smitty
Pignatelli, Fiona Breslin,
Jason Gordon Macioge, Dave Isby,
Rex Hearn, Dabney McAvoy
Main Cover Credits
Model: Ksenia
Serebrennikova
Ekaterincheva
hair: Ksenia Serebrennikova
photography: Olga Ekaterincheva
photo Assistant: Eva Ekaterincheva
Styling: Ksenia Serebrennikova
Clothing: Anna Lafee
MAkeUp: Olga
413-528-5380
413-528-9449
website: www.BerkshireRecord.net
mailing address: PO Box 868, Gt. Barrington, MA 01230
PHONE:
FAX:
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TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
2013
Well, say hello there...
W
.ell hello there, boys and girls, you don’t know me
but you will. I’m Rosalyn, call me Rosie, all my friends
do. I am just so jazzed to be your little tour guide
to The Berkshire Record’s The Best 2013.
I’m the type who’s been on the move, looking for that
one special place that has it all. And I’ve been worn
out looking. I mean let’s face it - Montenegro, Corsica, floating
on the Aegean on Nikko’s little boats - everybody knows that’s
Nowhere, cats and kitties. Flakes, finks and
phonies, that’s what you get out there.
Except for George Clooney of course,
that cat is bonafide. You must
know Georgie, works in a little
town called Hollywood? Good
friends with Oscar? Well, he’s
the one who told me I should flee
the scene and head to the Berkshires,
said it was Fat City. “The place away
from it all, that has it all.” And I’ll be
darned if he wasn’t right! Which is
why I am the self-declared
number-one paper shaker
for the Berkshires.
My brain was burning
with this thought about
a way to tell you how boss
this place is, so I cut out for The
Berkshire Record, where they know
a thing or two. Those cats and kitties
are on the stick. Like Wow! They read
my mind. The editorial staff came up
with this idea of a guide to the best
of the Berkshires, which includes not
only the choices of the Berkshire Record
readers (that’s you, kiddies), but also the editorial staff. What
a kick! So the paper published a survey, which you righteous
people filled out and returned so the staff could tally up the
votes. Those results and the choices of the staff are what make
berkshirerecord.net
XOXO,
Rosie
Inside
Community...........................................p.10
Readers’ Choice..................................................p.12
Editors’ Choice....................................................p.18
shopping..................................................p. 20
Readers’ Choice.................................................p. 22
Editors’ Choice....................................................p. 30
Dining........................................................p. 32
Readers’ Choice.................................................p. 34
Editors’ Choice....................................................p. 40
Nightlife..................................................p. 44
Readers’ Choice.................................................p. 46
Editors’ Choice...................................................p. 49
ARts & Culture......................................p.50
Readers’ Choice.................................................p. 52
Editors’ Choice....................................................p. 58
readers’ survey...................................p.60
Home & Design.........................................p.62
Clients’ Choice.....................................................p. 64
RE RE
CO
SHI
R
RK
the
best
R
D
Route 7 less than a minute south of Guido’s
The Best
BE
A Little Bit Conventional. A Little Bit Alternative.
A Whole Lot Different!
up The Berkshire Record’s The Best 2013. And here’s the best
part— you’ve got the goods in your hot little hands. If that
doesn’t razz your berries, honey, nothing will.
This is how the whole show works: There are six categories
— Community, Shopping, Dining, Nightlife, Arts & Culture
and Home & Design. The first five categories are divided into
two sections: First ­­— Readers’ Choice awards (that’s you again,
kiddies); second — Editors’ Choice awards where the BR staff
offers up their personal choices for the best of the Berkshires.
As for the guys and gals in Home & Design, well, we call those
Clients’ Choice awards where our advertisers are given a little
chance to tell you all why they are the living end. You with me?
Knew you would be—not only good looking, but smart, too! I
like that in my friends.
So let’s you and me beat feet and take a little tour of the best
of what the Berkshires have to offer. I can’t wait, this is going to
be a blast!
EA
2013
DERS’ POL
L
Spotting A Winner
Spotting a winner in The Best 2013
is easy, just look for the official
medallion proudly on display.
TBRM The Best 2013
9
The Best Of
highlights
Community
T
his is what all the shoutin’s about, kids. This is what makes
that rocket wail. It’s what we’re all here for. Welcome
to Community.
Those of you in orbit know it’s the people, politics,
services, recreation and that je ne sais quoi (remember
Paris?) that makes life in the Berkshires “Life in the
Berkshires.”
It’s what makes up Community, and though it may be
difficult to put your hot little hands on,
it’s what defines Berkshire living.
Now darlings, you all know
I’ve been everywhere and done
everything twice (sometimes
three times- but only to be
polite), yet I’ve never found the
place I’d be sorry to leave. Until
now, that is. What makes the Berkshires so different?
Well, it’s the people, of course. The people that keep the
wheels turning, the streets safe, the lights on, the food hot and
the weight off. The Berkshires are so far out because of all the
places where you can knock down pins, schuss the slopes, tidy
up your nest, commune with nature or get together with the
neighbors.
One of my favorite things to do in the Berkshires is get in
my chariot and just “go, daddy, go.” I always know I’ll find an
adventure. And so will you.
Along the way I’ll tell you which towns are anti-frantic, who’s
got the jets, where the heat really is the man, and where the
man’s feeling the heat. Come on, hop in! And hang on to your
lid, we’re taking the rag top.
TBRM The Best 2013
Smitty Pignatelli
Rep. William “Smitty” Pignatelli (D-Lenox) has represented the values and the people
of Southern Berkshire County across the state at Beacon Hill for the last decade. A Berkshire native his entire life, he puts a great focus on his constituency, frequently making
appearances at community events at schools, local businesses and everywhere in between.
Berkshire Living
10
Personal Best
berkshirerecord.net
What is/are your favorite parts of the Berkshires?
The people are the best part of the Berkshires. We have natural beauty, plenty of culture
and arts and wonderful educational institutions, but it’s the people that make them all work.
Best Local Hero
Given that Berkshire County is perhaps
just as, if not more so, conscious of the
importance of sustainability, promotion
of local agriculture and the “think global,
buy local” attitude than most regions, it’s
no wonder readers unanimously voted Art
Ames as the best local hero. Since taking
the helm as Berkshire Co-op’s general
manager about a decade ago,
the Co-op market’s sales have
increased 400 percent. That
considerable uptick means
many positive things for the
surrounding community,
but most notably a sound
investment in local economy
and produce, and a huge step
forward for sustainable business
Best Lawsuit
Embroiled in local political drama, the
Cumsky v. Brazie case, originating from
a town government disagreement gone
nuclear, was the talk of the towns due to
Cumsky’s accusatory
position and, perhaps
more notably, the
nearly quartermillion-dollar
settlement at stake.
While in the end Brazie
was exonerated of all
charges, it just goes
to show that even
small Berkshire towns
aren’t immune to dramatic, and somewhat
ludicrous, litigation.
berkshirerecord.net
What makes the community or communities within the Berkshires unique?
Each community is very unique and different. That’s what makes the Berkshire region as
a whole so unique. Unlike any other area of the state, when you cross a town border here
you know that a new, special place awaits you.
As someone who has made the Berkshires his home for his whole life, and who has had
a unique perspective on the county and the region, how has the community here in the
Berkshires evolved over your lifetime?
We continually and have constantly evolved through the years. Growing up in Lenox, which
was considered a bedroom community to Pittsfield, we had this place called Tanglewood
in the summer, but we were very dependent upon General Electric, which employed over
10,000 people. The paper mills of South County have evolved into Iredale Mineral Cosmetics,
a global company, and the Chamberlain Group, on the cutting edge of medical technology,
just to name two. The Tanglewood summer season has turned into year -round vibrancy
at the Mahaiwe Theatre, Shakespeare & Company and there are too many wonderful
restaurants to name.
What’s the best hangout for local legislators and politicians to bump elbows
after a long week of lawmaking, policy decisions and constituent meeting?
You’ll be getting me in trouble naming just one place, but I do enjoy relaxing
with my buddy Gene Dellea in a great atmosphere with good food at the
Shaker Mill in West Stockbridge.
Would you rather have an endless perfect skiing winter at Butternut or an
endless summer program at Tanglewood?
Yes to both! I’d also throw in a Spring walk through Kennedy Park and a Fall
foliage drive anywhere in Berkshires.
Are the Berkshires behind the ball on anything?
I don’t think that we are behind the ball, but I think that we are sometimes slower to accept
changes and embrace the future. We should be further along in the high-speed connectivity
debate which will definitely help all economic development efforts. That, along with being
more business friendly and making strides in expanding the creative economy, will provide
new opportunities for young people to plant new roots for economic prosperity.
How do you feel the Berkshires compares to other areas in the state?
I think that we stack up very nicely with every part of the state. We will never be, nor do
we want to be, a big place like Boston, but we offer just as much when it comes to the arts,
culture and restaurants. We do all this while providing a wonderful quality of life, surrounded
with natural beauty unmatched anywhere in the state.
What do you think passenger rail service to New York City will do for the Berkshires?
The Berkshires and the railroad have had a very romantic history. When my grandfather immigrated from Italy over 100 years ago, he traveled from Ellis Island to the Berkshires on the
railroad and made Lenox his home. The concept of expanded rail service to NYC is enticing and
one that should be explored. The $100 million down payment (the Governor’s words) needs
to be scrutinized closely to see what the true costs will be long term, including future annual
subsidies. In addition to that, we will need to have assurances that the state of Connecticut will
commit to an upgrade beyond the Mass state line.
I’d hate to see the Berkshires be the owners of the “rail to nowhere” without the continuation
through Connecticut and onto NYC. The concept is nice but we all will have to ask the tough
questions when it comes to the costs and the environmental impacts to get a true understanding
of the long term economic benefits.
TBRM The Best 2013
11
The Best
offer a path to higher education
and success for Berkshire County
residents and beyond.
Readers’ Choice
Community
Best Community Center
Berkshire South
Great Barrington
Celebrating over 10 years of
community building, Berkshire
South has served thousands of
children, adults and seniors from
all over South County as well
as the surrounding regions in
Connecticut and New York since
2002. To date, the non-profit
establishment has granted more
than $100,000 in financial aid
for membership and program
assistance, allowing countless
community members to be
touched by their goal to create a
sense of community and common
purpose.
best jet service
epic jet
Lenox
Epic Jet seeks to eliminate
the variables and headaches
of less refined travel options,
ensuring that you arrive at your
destination relaxed, refreshed
and on schedule. With a focus on
safety, efficiency, reliability and
flexibility, Epic Jet believes today’s
economic demands shouldn’t
be a deterrent to security and
comfort.
best apple picking
windy hill farms
Great Barrington
For a unique horticultural
experience and a great day out
with the family picking apples,
look no farther than Windy Hill
Farms, which offer both apple and
blueberry picking. On its sevenacre apple orchard, they remain
dedicated to seek, grow and offer
traditional favorites, including
native species as well as cultivars
and selections from the United
States and abroad.
best ski area
ski butternut
Great Barrington
Widely regarded as the number
one Massachusetts ski resort,
Butternut offers wintertime
adventures for families and
those just learning skiing or
snowboarding. With 22 trails
stretched out over 110 acres,
B u tte r n u t i s co nve n i e nt l y
located in the scenic Berkshire
12
TBRM The Best 2013
Mountains, perfect for day trips
from New York, New Jersey,
Connecticut and Western Mass.
With affordable lift tickets and
season passes, it’s a great winter
vacation destination for the
whole family.
best pediatric dentist
Yarmosky
pediatric dentistry
Great Barrington & Pittsfield
By adhering to its mission to
make a difference in every child’s
life by creating healthy smiles
that last a lifetime, Yarmosky
Pediatric Dentistry treats kids
with honesty, respect and a
sense of humor, while teaching
them that developing healthy
dental habits is both smart and
fun. With efficient, talented and
caring staff and state-of-theart equipment, they provide
top quality care in a relaxed
atmosphere.
best gym
kilpatrick athletic ctr.
Great Barrington
Housed on the campus of Bard
College at Simon’s Rock, the
Kilpatrick Center is an expansive
complex, with 58,000 feet of
state-of-the-art exercise and
recreational equipment. With
classes and programs led by
an enthusiastic and committed
group of industry professionals
and activities that range from
swimming and racquetball to
yoga and rock climbing, the
Kilpatrick Athletic Center creates
an environment where members
can improve their life quality,
find community and challenge
themselves through life-long,
integrated solutions to health
and fitness.
best college
berkshire
community college
Pittsfield
BCC strives to place higher
education within the reach of all
Berkshire County residents, and
remains committed to academic
excellence, student success and
leadership in the community.
With a focus on its core values of
integrity, innovation, community
engagement and respect for
differences, BCC continues to
best bowling
cove lanes
Great Barrington
The family-owned and operated
Cove Lanes is a one-stop
destination for bowling fun,
complete with full service lounge
and snack bar, arcade and twostory, 18-hole indoor mini golf
course. Their 24-lane facility is
perfect for serious and casual
players alike, with plenty of
league and tournament options,
as well as youth programs, party
availabilities and their own “rock
n’ bowl” deal offered every Friday
and Saturday night.
best salon
michele’s salon
and day spa
Great Barrington
For more than 10 years, Michele’s
has been providing top-quality
expert salon services as well as
convenient and flexible scheduling
and planning to remove the hassle
and accommodate any needs in
event preparation. From upscale
weddings to low-key romantic
getaways, the talented staff
and laid-back environment can
accommodate parties of any size
or need to help you feel and look
your best for any special occasion.
best limousine
service
abbott’s limousine
and livery service
Lee
The family-owned and operated
Abbott’s Limousine has been
delivering satisfied customers to
their destinations for 48 years.
Their solid reputation is built on
an attentive concern for detail and
the transportation and personal
needs of their clients, maintaining
the highest standards with their
30 hand-picked full- and part-time
drivers, making them the go-to
wheelmen for your journey to and
from Berkshire County.
best pLACE TO LOSE it
Berkshire Weight
Management Center
Great Barrington
By providing the tools necessary
for an individualized approach
to nutrition and wellness,
Berkshire Weight Management
Center employs its dedicated
and well-educated staff with
a comprehensive three-phase
program to offer world-class
energy, weight-loss, nutritional
and physical performance
solutions. With a wealth of
medical research, educational
resources and proven nutritional
supplements at their disposal,
they blaze a fun, successful and
supportive trail to a healthier
lifestyle.
BERKSHIRE FUNCTIONAL FITNESS
Best Elected Official
Smitty Pignatelli
Berkshire County
With 30-plus years of public service
under his belt, lifelong Berkshire
resident William “Smitty” Pignatelli
has served as State Representative
to the Berkshires’ 4th District
for a decade, focusing on strong
communication and connection
with his fervently supportive
constituency. As a frequent smiling
face at events countywide both
great and small, he has deservedly
achieved status not only as a
well-loved local celebrity but
also as a staunch and dedicated
defender and representative of his
constituents’ needs and values as
a solid Beacon Hill veteran and a
friendly Berkshire native.
Best Yoga
TriYoga Berkshires
Sheffield
As a community yoga destination,
TriYoga Berkshire is more than
just another yoga studio. As a
community-based non-profit
in collaboration with other
institutions, they offer inspiring
classes in health, music and art.
With supportive and experienced
teachers, they seek to foster
positive energy, creativity and
well-being for all ages, means
and skill levels, in promoting
yoga as both a practice and a
way of life.
Best fitness & health
Berkshire
Functional Fitness
Great Barrington
Berkshire Functional Fitness’
tried and true motto, “Learn it,
Live it, Love it,” is well-earned.
Focusing on a broad and practical
approach to a healthy and fit
life, their passionate team of
dedicated trainers and instructors
strive to meet the exercise needs
and improve the well-being of
Cont’d on Page 14
berkshirerecord.net
WELCOME TO THE BERKSHIRE FUNCTIONAL FITNESS COMMUNITY
WHERE WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR HEALTH!
On the map: In the heart of the Berkshires. 24 /7. Who: A forward thinking team of professionals led by Owner
and Trainer Antoine Alston. Conviction: Everyone should have hands on, prescribed exercise. Your health
history and goals are yours alone, and we at Berkshire Functional Fitness tailor training to you! Think of it
this way - you go to your doctor with a health issue, and your doctor hands out a one size fits all drug. If the
drug even works for your condition, you could experience side effects. You could end up feeling worse, not
better! Same with exercise - don't let someone prescribe you another person’s exercises - come to Berkshire
Functional Fitness to get an individually tailored program to bring out the best in you! The Evolution of
Fitness: A huge paradigm shift is happening in fitness, and this shift requires an evolution of equipment. We
at Berkshire Functional Fitness have made that investment where other training clubs have not. We know
that the best equipment is crucial to you getting optimal care. When: Why not now? Stop in and get a free
evaluation. Let us set you up with a prescribed exercise program for your life journey. - Antoine Alston
About Antoine Alston: Owner of BFF: Highest levels of certifications - Being mentored by the best in
the industry - Over 20,000 actual hands on hours in the field working directly with clients.
Berkshire Functional Fitness - 325 Stockbridge Road - Great Barrington, MA 01230 - (413) 528-0067
TBRM
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www. berkshirefunctionalfitness.com - find us on facebook!
The Best 2013
13
Community
Readers’ Choice
all members with programs that
integrate structural integrity,
postural integrity, balanced
muscular development, correct
techniques, injury prevention,
alignment and precision of
movement, to offer the best in
physical conditioning and training.
Best Spa
Canyon Ranch
Lenox
At Canyon Ranch, joy and good
health is contagious. As one of the
world’s premier health resorts, their
spa treatments combine techniques
both ancient and modern that
restore your body’s healthy balance
and reenergize body and mind.
They offer a large selection of lavish
spa therapies, ranging from classic
massages and Asian therapies
to advanced restorative touch
therapies and ayurvedic body
treatments facilitated by gifted
therapists and aestheticians who
help determine the appropriate,
individualized treatment plan for
anyone. They also feature worldclass salon services including
manicures, pedicures, makeup and
hair styling, as well as service for
men including a gentlemen’s spa
renewal treatment.
Best Garden
Berkshire
Botanical Garden
Stockbridge
Gardening author Virginia Small
once called Berkshire Botanical
Garden “a glistening community
gem,” and she couldn’t be more
correct. With an incredible
collection of plants indigenous
or thriving in the Berkshires, they
boast over 3,000 species and
varieties of garden vegetation
encompassing 15 cultivated
acres. As both a functional and
ornamental garden, Berkshire
Botanical has expanded in both
sheer size and variety over its
tenure as one of the oldest gardens
in the U.S., ever pursuing their
mission to fulfill the community’s
need for education and inspiration
concerning the art and science
of gardening, as well as the
preservation and improvement
of the local environment.
Best Local Hero
Art Ames
Great Barrington
Since Art took the helm as general
manager of the Berkshire Co-op
Market in 2002, the community
market ’s sales have grown
from $1.5 million to over $8.5
million – an expansion that
has not only offered more and
more quality grocery products
to Berkshire residents, but also
injected vigor into the regional
economy, specifically through
local produce markets. Over the
last decade, Ames’ leadership
has furthered Berkshire Co-op’s
goals to support the local economy
through farmers, food producers
and small businesses as well as
sustainable business practices and
regional food systems toward a
more thriving community.
Best Adventure Park
ski Butternut’s
Cruiser & Twisted
Terrain parks
Great Barrington
Featuring the region’s best terrain
parks, Ski Butternut offers a varied
and unique freestyle terrain park
experience, with two park options of
varying difficulty to accommodate
all skiers and snowboarders.
Best Local Nonprofit
Berkshire Taconic
Sheffield
Celebrating a quarter century of
community building and over $100
million in grants, Berkshire Taconic
has unquestionably proven itself
as an agent of positive change
in the region it serves. From the
arts, senior and youth programs
to health care and transportation,
their grants have helped thousands
of donors every year achieve
countless philanthropic goals
and build stronger, more vibrant
communities throughout the
Berkshires and beyond.
Best Radio Station
WSBS
Great Barrington
WSBS is the main source of news
and information to residents of the
Southern Berkshire Region, serving
over 200,000 people in the tri-state
Berkshire area. As a full-service
community station, they make a
major commitment to keeping
locals up to date on the latest news
and information with two full-time
news reporters plus hourly reports
from the Associated Press’ radio
network. They also feature an
extensive music mix, talk shows
and local interviews, keeping radio
a valuable medium to the citizens of
Southern Berkshire County.
Offering Massage Therapy,
Wellness Classes & Yoga
1224 North Main Street (Rte.7), Sheffield, MA
413-854-3177
www.triyogaberkshire.com
Cont’d on Page 16
Garden opens May 5th
Routes 102 & 183, Stockbridge, MA
Public Tours: Wed, Fri, & Sat, at 10am-free with admission
berkshirebotanical.org
14
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
413.298.3926
TBRM The Best 2013
15
Community
Readers’ Choice
Best investment
Advisor
rbc wealth management
Pittsfield
For more than a century, RBC
We a l t h M a n a ge m e nt h a s
constantly offered the necessary
discipline, strength and stability to
build enduring relationships with
clients, finding integrated solutions
for individual and corporate
customers across the globe. They
have been named the safest bank
in North America, as well as the
tenth-safest bank worldwide by
Global Finance, which speaks to
their uncanny ability to hold the
security of their clients’ wealth and
livelihood as their highest priority.
They have the history of prudent
fiscal management to confidently
say that there’s wealth in RBC’s
approach.
Best Private Gallery
Mary Childs Gallery
Great Barrington
sophisticated view of meticulouslycrafted fine art across mixed media.
Of particular note is their collection
of glass art, drawing eyes from near
and far and largely considered to be
the best in the region.
Best Political
Contest
MA Senate Race –
Brown v. Warren
Massachusetts
open since the early days of golf
in Great Barrington in 1896, is an
exciting and challenging course
with 6,403 total yards of golf to be
had. As aesthetically pleasing as it
is well-maintained, it’s appreciated
for some of its trickier holes. Hole
17 - teeing off across a river and up
a hill – is a course favorite.
Best School
In November, Elizabeth Warren
upset incumbent Scott Brown for
the Massachusetts Senate seat
in what was both a heated and
expensive contest for both sides.
The $68 million total spent by both
campaigns combined – mostly
on a battery of back-and-forth
television advertisements – was
the most expensive senate race
in the entire country. Garnering
approximately 53 percent of the
vote in a tight race, Warren became
the first woman ever elected as a
U.S. senator from Massachusetts.
Best Golf Course
Wyantenuck
Country Club
Great Barrington
Rudolf Steiner School
Great Barrington
The Rudolf Steiner School treats
education as an art, wherein
everything that is taught must
speak to students’ experience and
imagination. As an independent
coeducation school accredited by
the Association of Independent
Schools of New England, the Steiner
School’s curriculum focuses on a
comprehensive integration of the
sciences, mathematics, literature
and world history with the fine
and practical arts and study of
cultural heritage. Graduates of
the Steiner School leave with an
ability to discern and appreciate
order and beauty, but also a knack
for asking tough, critical questions
about life – skills they can use to
shape a changing world.
CARLSON AUTO BODY
Featuring a diverse array of works
from sculpture and ceramics to
photography and painting, the
Childs Gallery offers an exquisite and
Featuring a beautifully landscaped
course surrounded with flowers,
mountain views, wildlife and
rivers, Wyantenuck’s golf course,
Best Bed and
Breakfast
Wainwright Inn
Great Barrington
Henning Carlson - Owner
Combining Berkshire beauty
with European hospitality,
• Collision
the Service
Wainwright•Inn has been
around since colonial times,
• Glass Replacement
• cultural
making it both a historic
landmark
and
a
destination
in
• Insurance
Estimates •
all seasons for a fun, relaxing
or romantic
• Painting
• getaway while you
explore the Berkshires. With
its convenient central location
close to countless natural,
cultural and entertainment
wonders, it’s the perfect place
to unwind in between excursions
1100 Pleasant
Street the Rockwell
to Tangelwood,
Bash Bish Falls or
Lee, MAMuseum,
01238-0086
Ski Butternut. Add to this the
amazing breakfasts and the hosts’
unending
hospitality, and you’ve
Ma. Reg.
#RS363
got a Berkshire B&B paradise.
413-243-1813
CARLSON AUTO BODY
Henning Carlson - Owner
Best Advocates
Volunteers in Medicine
Berkshire County
VIM’s mission is as simple as it is
Collision Service •singular – to make the community
Collision Service • Glass• Replacement
one patient at a time. Since
Insurance Estimates
• Painting
• Glass
Replacementbetter
• VIM
2004,
has treated thousands
of in-need patients with free,
• Insurance Estimatescompassionate
•
health care, serving
413-243-1813
as a user-friendly portal to the
• Painting
1100 Pleasant St., Lee, MA
01238 •
Ma. Reg. #RS363
health care system for those who
lack insurance. Countless stories
from previous Berkshire patients
act as the most telling testimony
to the necessary, inspiring and
413-243-1813
004651
16
TBRM The Best 2013
1100 Pleasant Street
Lee, MA 01238-0086
outstanding nature of the work of
these volunteer clinicians.
Best Way to Learn
How to Fly
BOB DENLEY’S
Foreign Car Repair and Service
PARK ST. TIRE
Berkshire Aviation
Great Barrington
More than six decades of aviation
training experience allows
Berkshire Aviation to develop
a personalized curriculum for
every student that comes through
their doors. The students bring
their aspirations and skills, and
Berkshire Aviation adapts. Once
you fly with Berkshire Aviation,
you’ll always want to return. If you
think fine dining and culture is all
the area has to offer, take to the
skies with a trained professional
aviator for a safe and pleasant
flight education experience, and
see what Berkshire County is like
above the clouds. Once you fly
with Berkshire Aviation, you’ll
always want to return.
Best Place to fillup in Sheffield
Gulotta’s Mobil
Sheffield
If you’re ever in downtown Sheffield
and need a quick fill up, an oil change
or a pit stop to fill up on drinks and/
or snacks, look no further than
Gulotta’s Mobil. The family-owned
business located on Route 7 is a
downtown fixture in Sheffield. Open
late daily and weekly and they also
carry diesel fuel.
ASE CERTIFIED-L1 • 38
39 Years
Years Experience
Experience
FOREIGN CAR
REPAIR
Saab • Volvo • Kia • Hyundai
Subaru • Range Rover • BMW
Honda • Toyota • Mini Cooper
Mercedes • Acura • Nissan
Foreign & Domestic
MODERN
DIAGNOSTICS
We are now able to code
controllers, update software
& reprogram Volvo, Audi, Subaru,
BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen
& Mini Cooper just like the dealer!
We have been servicing Volvos
since the mid-1970s.
We are an authorized Cooper Tire Dealer.
Nearly 1000 Tires in stock daily
Best Pest
Extermination
Braman Termite and
Pest elimination
Lee
Having taken care of everything
f ro m te r m i te s , a n t s a n d
cockraoches to rodents, bees and
bed bugs since 1890 throughout
New England, Braman knows a
thing or two about pest control.
It’s the exceptional training and
comprehensive knowledge of
their staff that put them a cut
above the rest as a household
name for critter control in the
region. Integrating nonchemical
approaches with the precise
application of the latest chemical
methods, Braman ensures the
safest possible state-of-the-art
pest control.
Cont’d on Page 18
berkshirerecord.net
www.coopertires.com
Servicing FOREIGN and DOMESTIC VEHICLES
LaTEST DIaGONOSTIC EquIpMENT aND TRaINING
(413) 243-2112
Mon-Fri 8-5 • Sat by Appointment
150 WEST PARK ST. • LEE, MA
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
17
Community
Editors’ Choice
RUNNER UP
Best Flood
Lee FBI investigation
Despite the recent rash of
disgraced or questionable public
officials, one town stands out for
its quiet decorum and civility.
Sheffield, one of the oldest towns
in South Berkshire County, takes
an active interest in its Town Hall,
and its officials are dedicated,
polite and hard-working, which
ought to be the rule, rather than
the exception.
There is still plenty of mystery
overhanging the FBI’s raid on
the Lee Police Department and
the home of Chief Joseph Buffis.
Tight lips and lack of confirmation
from official sources have left
speculation to float and grow over
the town over what is purpose
of the investigation. To add to
the matter, in February, the U.S.
Attorney’s office was reported
to have begun investigating past
articles regarding the Laliberte Toy
Fund Drive. Charges have yet to be
filed following the investigation,
leaving the town to continue
to wonder why the Feds came
knocking.
Best Political
Scandal
Best County
Department
When you attract the attention of
one Bill O’Reilly, you know you’re
in pretty scandalous territory.
Good ol’ Bill - and a bunch of
other people - blasted the town
of Great Barrington for not putting
up their Christmas lights like they
usually do every year (though to
be fair, the choice was made by
the Chamber of Commerce, not
town government).
Heroes of the winter months and
storms, the Sheffield Highway
Department worked long hours
to ensure that the roads under
their care were kept clean
and safe. The department was
brought to the attention of the
Selectmen several times by
residents, and was universally
applauded for their care and
attention.
Best Managed
Community
Sheffield
great barrington
holiday lights
Lake Buel
Monterey
As odd as it seems to select the
“best” damaging act of nature,
the winner this year goes to Lake
Buel. Perhaps better phrased
as “Most Important,” or “Most
Destructive,” the repeated
flooding around the lake has
left many residents temporarily
homeless and unable to fix the
damages from the last influx of
water. The Town of Monterey
also deserves a nod for being
one of the only political bodies
seemingly dedicated to finding
a permanent and effective
solution.
Best place to
take a visitor
sheffield highway
department
The dreamaway lodge
Becket
The DreamAway Lodge in Becket
deserves this award many times
over. From the spectacular food
to the welcoming live music,
the Lodge is a true legend of
the Berkshires. The fact that it’s
hidden on top of a mountain in
the backwoods of Becket doesn’t
hurt the air of adventure that
accompanies every trip out
there, either.
Best View
Clarks Pond
overlook on Route 7
While driving along Rt. 7 just
before the historic Stockbridge
Train Station, a beautiful stretch
of wetlands and forest comes
into full view. Clarks Pond and
the beginning of the Beartown
State Forest expand for miles of
almost completely untouched
land dotted with beaver dams
and mountain peaks that on a
clear day slice into the big, open
sky. The view is a perfect example
of the classic beauty that makes
New England a much sought after
tourist destination and home for
lovers of the outdoors.
Best Political Scare
TCI of New York
factory Fire
At first, a fire across the state line
in Ghent, New York seemed of little
importance to the Berkshires, but
in the aftermath of the inferno
that leveled the TCI of New York
transformer and equipment
recycling plant, the residents of
the South County’s border towns
began to take notice. The threat
of contamination from airborne
PCBs and other harmful volatile
organic compounds put the area
on high alert and brought swift
response to test air quality. In the
end there were no signs of harmful
contaminants but the emergency
triggered a tense week for the
safety and security of the residents
of Berkshire County.
Best Name
Charles Browne,
Lenox town
accountant
Although he’s probably heard
it a million times, Lenox’s new
town accountant Charles Browne
takes the best name. Any time
your name causes a double take
and thoughts of Charles Shultz’
beloved comic strip is cause for
candidacy. Let’s hope that the
town gets more than “a rock” for
its yearly town budget.
Best Lawsuit
cumsky v. brazie
Egremont
The Egremont political drama
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between former select board
chairman Bruce Cumsky and
defendant Ron Brazie, husband
of long time town employee and
current selectman Mary Brazie,
came to a head in Pittsfield
Superior Court. Cumsky filed a
$225,000 lawsuit against Brazie
for civil assault and intentional
infliction of emotional distress.
The theatrics revolving around
the alleged altercation and
proceeding captivated the
attention of many in Egremont
and its surrounding towns,
culminating in the exoneration
of Brazie of all charges.
Sat., Apr. 27, 2013 • 10:00AM - Noon
Susan B. Anthony Center • 413-236-1630
• Learn about academic programs, financial aid, transfer counseling,
& career & student services.
• Meet BCC’s Student Government Ambassadors, take a campus tour,
& enjoy light refreshments.
Let BCC be your pathway to a certificate or associate’s
degree...and academic success! www.berkshirecc.edu
best place to hold
an event
United Methodist
Church
Alford
Looking for a place to host your
next big get together? Whether
it’s a wedding, an anniversary or
just a great, big family reunion,
look no further than United
Methodist Church. Tucked away
in the quiet, scenic hilltown of
Alford, it’s a beautiful destination
and a welcoming setting for your
next big event.
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TBRM The Best 2013
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berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
19
The Best Of
Shopping
highlights
Fiona Breslin
The only thing Fiona Breslin loves more than shopping is the Berkshires. In fact, she’s
been quoted as saying the only way she’s leaving the Berkshires is if she’s moving to Paris.
Fiona (incidentally the granddaughter of famed New York columnist Jimmy Breslin) grew
up in the Berkshires, and graduated from Monument Mountain Regional High School. At
the end of the day, she’s a happy and inveterate shopper.
The Olympian
W
elcome to Shopping!!! Sorry if I said that a little
too eagerly. It’s just, well, let’s face it, I LOVE to shop.
It’s not just that it takes a lot to keep a girl like me
in threads (it does), but for me, it’s a sport. I train
for it like an athlete. I have stamina. So when the
Record was looking for a guide, they came to the
Olympian of shopping to do it.
Now, I’ve been in some big city shops where I got
the royal shaft (not to name names, but Monte Carlo,
anyone?). It got me frosted, and I split. I’ll take smalltown shopping any day of the week.
Maybe you’re looking for a boss pair of shoes, a rock
for your baby’s finger, some clubs for your old man, a
vintage apron (for me?), a choice toy for your little tyke,
or some primo biscuits for Fido (or even a raw food diet).
Whatever it is, the boutique shops of the Berkshires
have got the goods.
You can also pick your scene. Whether you
like to chat it up in chic boutiques, visit country
stores in little hamlets, or trawl for deals at the
local malls (indoor or out), Berkshire shops show
up in some righteous locales. Grab a map and hunt
down antique shops in the back woods. Uncover
housewares in converted barns. Browse for books
in literary lofts. I also love to visit artisans in their
studios. In fact, just last week my gal pals and I, we’re
real tight, we even took a trip down Rt. 7 to try out
some ukuleles. It was a gas! So, what are you doing
sitting here and looking at my pretty mug? Pop the
clutch and start shopping.
But don’t bogart the deals. Ya dig?
Best Bookstore
There’s nothing quite like diving into a
page-turner – The Bookloft understands
this. As an independently owned and
operated operation, these guys care
way more about sending you home with
the reading material you’re looking for,
whether that happens to be a brush up on
your Nietzschean philosophy or JayZ’s autobiography. Plus, unlike
big box stores, they strive
to promote area talent by
stocking a myriad of works by
local authors and poets. You
never knew your neighbors
were this good at writing.
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
What is/are your favorite parts of the Berkshires?
I love going to the movies at the Triplex in Great Barrington, taking drives along strips in
Egremont and Columbia County, and I am growing increasingly fond of Stockbridge. I also
enjoy many of the people I’ve gotten to know and work for here.
What makes the Berkshires unique as a region?
We are tax free up to a certain dollar and we are select meaning that what we don’t have
in quantity, we have in quality.
Where, in your opinion, is the best spot for retail therapy in the Berkshires?
My go-to places are TwiGs in Great Barrington and Lenox. (where I work and love) T.P.
Saddleblanket, The Lee Outlets, Eagle Shoe & Boot Co. in Great Barrington, Tune
Street for music, and Bra & Girl and Byzantium for lingerie.
Let’s say a friend from New York City is visiting – where do you bring them
to impress them with the Berkshires’ sense of fashion?
I usually bring out of town friends to the restaurants and food places first:
Guido’s, Rubi’s, Bell & Anchor, Haven, and Allium, and the Farmers’ Market.
Maybe then the Norman Rockwell or the Red Lion Inn.
What’s the easiest place to spend your rent check in a day/most addictive
shopping experience/location?
Right now I am addicted to the sewing classes I take at the Sewing Shop in GB. I leave feeling better than I did upon arrival. After that it’s pretty easy to blow rent at the Berkshire
Co-Op, on Jane Iredale cosmetics, at Michelle’s getting my hair done by Alicia, and taking
Pilates classes. If I am smart, I’ll ask for gift certificates.
Best Toys
Sometimes, you’ve just got to be a kid again.
There’s no better way to cherish your inner
child than by poring over the aisles of a great
toy store. And there’s no toy store quite like
Tom’s Toys, which makes it an area-favorite
for playthings of all kinds. If you’re looking
for a very special gift for a very special kid
or even just a gift for your inner kid, Tom’s
Toys is the place to toy around.
20
Personal Best
berkshirerecord.net
Best bang for your buck shopping experience in the Berkshires?
Things aren’t so cheap here. But I always look through the sale rack at twiGs, T.P., and Church
Street Trading Co, where they have great stuff across the board. Sometimes I peek into Gypsy
Joynt. After that I enjoy shopping at TJ Maxx and Marshalls in Pittsfield. In general, a great
bang for my buck is supporting local shops and designers such as hand-made leather bags
from Gundalla Brattke (for whom I help cut fabrics), or cool jewelry by Stephanie Iverson.
I coo over over jewelry by local designers including Dai Ban and McTeigue& McClelland.
If you had to choose a a mall to shop in, would it be Lee Outlets, Berkshire Mall or
Holyoke Mall?
Lee Outlets!
What are some the little shops that have an interesting selection of fashionable items?
I explore, and that leads me to find interesting shopping options. I like Out of Hand as
well as some of the vintage shops in GB and Lee. I enjoy the mom-and-pop and army/
navy stores including Barrington Outfitters and Ben’s Shop in Lee, and estate sales where
one might find an incredible hand-made sweater from Scandinavia. At the end of the day,
buy what you like.
TBRM The Best 2013
21
The Best
Readers’ Choice
Shopping
best pet supplies
bensdotter’s pets
Great Barrington
Offering a bit of the conventional,
and a bit of the alternative,
BensDotter’s Pets has a friendly
local atmosphere with carefully
selected products for pet dogs,
cats and parrots. They have
everything from toys and kibbled
and canned foods to supplements
and medicinal and even all natural
chews and treats. Additionally,
they offer the very best for those
with pets on raw diets, including
raw diet supplements and freezedried and dehydrated foods. Pet
nutrition is the name of the game
at BensDotter’s.
best jeweler
zabian’s fine jewelers
Lee
Since 1985, Zabian’s has prided
itself on offering the absolute
finest in jewelry and watches.
Owner Mohamed Zabian is
a seasoned gemologist, with
expertise in diamonds and gems,
and a specialty in custom design.
As a highly respected jeweler in the
Berkshires as well as throughout
the nation, they provide their
loyal customers with a memorable
shopping experience.
best pottery store
sheffield pottery
Sheffield
Supplying ceramic supplies for
artists, craftsmen, school and
industry since 1946, Sheffield
Pottery is the one-stop destination
for anything ceramics or pottery
related. Growing over the years
from their start with a 6’x6’ kiln over
six decades ago, their 26,000-foot
production warehouse is matched
only by their extensive and
exquisite retail selections in their
showrooms, building on an earned
reputation for premium quality
products, excellent customer
service and dependability.
best men’s clothing
zabian’s ltd.
Lee
In addition to their fine jewelry
offerings, Zabian’s also offers a wide
array of quality menswear for any
discriminating eye of male fashion.
On top of their diverse offerings
22
TBRM The Best 2013
of formal wear, casual wear and
tuxedo rentals, you can also pick
out a sleek hat or stylish pair of
shoes. They also have a big and
tall department for clothing that
fits the needs of men of any size.
best yarn/knitting
store
wonderful things
Great Barrington
Featuring the largest selection of
yarn, needlework, handcrafted gifts
and craft supplies in the Berkshires,
Wonderful Things stocks yarn as far
as the eye can see – five full rooms
piled to the ceiling with everything
from hand-dyed and sock yarn to
unique specialty yarns, such as
Paternayan Persian yarn. On top of
their massive yarn selection, they
also sell needlepoint and knitting
kits, as well as handcrafted gifts
such as jewelry, wooden toys, dolls,
hand-blown glass and pottery,
making it a one-stop destination
for anyone looking for a special
hand-crafted gift – or looking to
create one themselves.
best precious
metals
pittsfield
precious metals
Pittsfield
Pittsfield Precious Metals’ large,
diversified selection of antique,
estate and contemporary jewelry,
diamonds and precious stones
features exquisite items made
from sterling silver, pocket
and wristwatches and quality
collectibles and accessories, as well
as porcelain and art glass pieces.
With a gemologist and licensed and
bonded auctioneer on premises,
they’re also an authorized PCGS
and NGC coin dealer, and have
helpful advisory services for fast
and profitable liquidation of assets.
best paint store
lee hardware
Lee
Lee Hardware is the place to
start a project off right, and that
goes double for anything that
needs a coat of paint. Since the
1950s, Lee Hardware Store, Inc.
has been serving commercial,
i n d u st r i a l a n d re s i d ent i a l
customers, and has earned a
solid reputation through friendly
and knowledgeable staff, sound
advice and the best service. In
their Benjamin Moore Signature
Store paint section, you’ll find
myriad of colors available in
samples, as well as the necessary
equipment and know-how to bring
your paint project ideas to life.
best foreign
auto repair
bob denley’s foreign
car and park st. tire
Lee
Specializing in foreign auto repair,
Bob Denley’s combines excellent
service and a friendly approach
with a deep and constantly updated
body of knowledge and experience
in repairing and extending the life
of your car. With special equipment
to evaluate and efficiently test
any problems your car may have,
their staff is happy to answer
customers’ questions, and can also
advise the ideal products to use to
extend the life of your automobile.
Additionally, they’re also the only
authorized stocking tire dealer in
the tri-town area.
Best Shoes
Barrington Outfitters
Great Barrington
Discriminating shoe-shoppers from
far and near have made Barrington
Outfitters the sole destination for
shoes and boots in the Berkshires.
With an excellent selection of great
products – including great deals
and steals on their outside sale rack
during the warmer months – as
well as helpful and friendly staff,
Barrington Outfitters is the perfect
place to think on your feet.
Best Bank
Salisbury Bank
Sheffield
Dedicated to enriching the
community they serve, Salisbury
Bank not only offers a wide swath of
personal and business banking (as
well as trust and wealth, retirement
planning, personalized investment
and mortgage services), but is also
committed to new and innovative
products and approaches that
make the lives of their customers
and their community members
more rewarding. Between their
annual scholarship program and
their frequent support to many
non-profit organizations in the
tri-state area, they have carved
their reputation as both a reliable
banking institution and a good
corporate citizen.
Best Women’s
Clothing Store
Louisa Ellis
Great Barrington
Louisa Ellis’s posh boutique
of women’s fashion, with an
impressive selection of clothing,
jewelry and handbags, is the
perfect place to keep your finger
on the pulse of the Fall runway
shows’ iconic looks, without the
hassle of shopping in NYC. It has
quickly built a solid reputation with
a large, loyal fan base from far and
near for its convenient and high
quality offerings.
Now Celebrating Our 40th Year!
The Best Yarns & Handcrafted Gifts!
Best Toy Store
Tom’s Toys
Great Barrington
Jewelry • Judaica Pottery • Toys & Games • Silks
Wood • Stuffed Animals & Puppets • Needlework
For more than a decade and a half
Tom’s Toys has been the place to
go for a great selection of quality
toys for tots of all ages. Featuring
an ever-growing collection of
more than 20,000 toys ranging
from games, dolls and puzzles to
science, arts and crafts and infant/
toddler toys, if you can’t find the
toy you’re looking for at Tom’s, it
probably doesn’t exist yet.
Wonderful Things is hosting a weekly “walk in” knitting and crocheting session.
Tues & Thurs, from 1pm-4pm. Enjoying each others company. All levels of expertise are welcome!
232 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA
413-528-2473
Best Ski Shop
Ski Butternut
Great Barrington
Mon-Sat 9:30-5 • Sunday 12-4
www.wonderful-things.com
Voted the number one ski shop in
New England by the New England
Winter Sports Reps Association,
Butternut’s full service ski shop
at their on-mountain location at
the base of their iconic resort has
earned the reputation as one of the
highest quality ski and snowboard
shops in the region.
Gift Certificates Available
Best Gourmet
Food Store
Locke, Stock and Barrel
Great Barrington
For the widest and best selection
of gourmet grocery options,
whether it’s natural foods, health
foods, regional and local foods
or any food under the sun, look
no farther than Locke, Stock and
Barrel. With a slew of foodstuff
selections that are as delicious as
they are unique, it’s hard to even
get out of the parking lot before
diving into your shopping bag and
trying out what you’ve bought.
Of particular note is their cheese
selection, largely considered the
best in Western Mass.
Best Art Supplies
Store
JWS Art Supplies
Great Barrington
For artists, fine design minds
or those with creative and
quirky taste, JWS Art Supplies
has everything one could ever
desire. They have an exhaustive
permanent stock of various paints,
Cont’d on Page 24
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TBRM The Best 2013
23
Best Florist
Wildflowers
Great Barrington
Wildflowers takes pride in
delivering the freshest and
most aesthetically-minded
floral arrangements, using only
the highest quality flowers
and hand-arranging and handdelivering all arrangements to
the recipient. Whether it’s a
seasonal centerpiece, a carefullyarranged basket or the perfect
bouquet for any occasion, when
you need the freshest flowers
in the Berkshires, you can rely
on Wildflowers. With their
selection, you’ll go wild.
Best Credit Union
Greylock Federal
Credit Union
Berkshire County
Greylock Federal Credit Union
prides itself on reminding its
members of one simple fact:
When you’re with Greylock,
you’re not alone in the world of
credit and finances. Offering a
wide palette of services expertly
tailored services to a wide
range of members – from free
services like fund collection and
credit counseling to convenient
financial transaction services,
from electronic to snail mail –
Greylock Federal Credit Union
provides clarity and options via
safe and secure financial services
for all needs. Greylock treats
their members like they own the
place... because they do!
TBRM The Best 2013
Threds
Great Barrington
Going retro has never been more
fashionable and affordable than at
Threds, the one-stop destination
for used and vintage clothing.
Featuring one-of-a-kind vintage
clothing, as well as new retro
clothing and exclusive designs
by local designers and artists,
they’ve also got a slew of great
accessories from the fine (such
as body jewelry and tapestries)
to the quirky (incense and oils,
Zippo lighters) and everything in
between.
Best Bike Shop
Berkshire Bike
and Board
Great Barrington
Berkshire Bike and Board is
passionate about bikes, which
means they’re eager to set each
and every customer up with exactly
what they’re looking for in a quality
bicycle for the safest, most durable
and most fun ride possible. With
comfort and safety built into every
bike, they stand behind their craft
in every way possible: Test rides
for any bike; a lifetime of free
tune-ups with the purchase of a
new bike; and every bike they sell
is guaranteed to offer the highest
quality, longest life and best resale
value around. With their wide
selection of quality accessories,
it’s clear they are the place to go
to get your wheels turning.
Best Wedding
Dresses
Best Auto Detailing
5 Cents a Dance’s expertise in
custom sewing and alterations
make them the destination for the
perfect wedding dress. Building
a solid reputation through their
reliable and quality work designing
Larkin is the one and only stop
for any and all vehicle detailing
needs. With 6 different detailing
package options and pickup and
delivery service offered, they
can handle any vehicle – from
small cars and motorcycles to
5 Cents a Dance
Lee
24
Best Consignment
Shop
RVs and boats. In addition to their
normal detail offerings, they also
perform excessive pet hair and
odor removal, window tinting,
headlight restoration and more.
Servicing all varieties of vehicles
from small businesses to local law
enforcement, no job is too big or
too detailed for their dedicated
and careful approach.
Best Auto
Body Repair
Carlson Auto Body
Lee
The professionalism and hard work
at Carlson Auto Body is what allows
them to get any auto body repair
job done on time, as expected and
for competitive affordable prices.
Always friendly and courteous in
their service to customers, they
are the go-to specialists for any
auto body repair needs.
Best Handmade
Gifts
Out of Hand
Great Barrington
Fromthequirkytothesophisticated,
the fashionable to the fun, Out of
Hand’s impressively expansive
inventory has a huge selection of
everything from clothes, tapestries,
furniture, fine glass and just about
Best Camera Shop
SHOP LOCAL
Unique, quality, affordable instruments
The Snap Shop
Great Barrington
Since 1972, The Snap Shop
has been the region’s onestop destination for everything
photography. Always happy to
chat about cameras, pictures or
photo projects, their customer
service is nearly as unmatched
as their wide array of available
services, which includes not only
camera repair and film developing,
but also old photo copying and
retouching/restoration, slide
scanning, printing from black
and white negatives, darkroom
chemicals, and basically anything
else someone with a camera
could possibly need.
gic Fluke
a
M
Berkshire Made
Seconds, gift certificates, lessons
The Magic Fluke Company, LLC
Best Luxury
Auto Dealer
Flynn VW, Audi, BMW
Pittsfield
Once a Flynn customer, always a
Cont’d on Page 26
292 South Main Street • Sheffield, MA 01257
sales@magicfluke.com • www.magicfluke.com
413-229-8536 • Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
Henry’s Electric proudly sells Miele vacuums.
No matter if you have carpet or smooth flooring,
allergies or asthma, or are looking for exceptional
quality for your dollar, there’s a Miele vacuum for
everyone.
Miele vacuum cleaners not only clean your floors, they
also clean the air your family breathes. Miele’s Air Clean
Sealed SystemTM captures and retains over 99.9% of
dirt, dust and allergens.
Henry’s Electric Inc.
EST. 1946
Larkin LTD
Great Barrington
berkshirerecord.net
everything else if you’re looking for
a unique gift for anyone on your list,
or an item to spruce up the décor
of any interior.
.
Co
oils and acrylics, pencils, markers,
pastels and other writing and
drawing instruments, brushes,
canvases, easels, and pretty
much anything else an art studio
could possibly need. They’ve also
got one-of-a-kind funky office
supplies, as well as photo albums,
journals, stationery – everything.
And if everything wasn’t enough,
they also exercise the space above
their product racks as an informal
gallery space for local artwork.
costumes for professional dance
companies, their excellent design
and construction of wedding
dresses for everyone from petite
to the voluptuous is just the ticket
to make the perfect day even
more perfect. Their headquarters
for fast, friendly and professional
service is located in the same
location as Orchids, a full-service
florist, and across the street from
St. Mary’s Church – the only
thing that makes them more
convenient for your one-stop
wedding dress needs is their
dedication to expert custom
dress design.
The
Shopping
Readers’ Choice
252 Main St., Lee, MA 01238 | 413.243.0690 | Henryselectricinc.com
Berkshire County’s premiere Miele vacuum sales and service center.
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
25
Shopping
Readers’ Choice
Flynn customer. Why? Because
they enjoy meeting and
exceeding the high expectations
for a luxury auto dealer. Their
commitment to excellence is
rooted in treating each customer
w i t h p a ra m o u nt co n c e r n .
Their organized and efficient
dealership office is staffed by
a friendly, knowledgeable staff
who give individualized care
to help you drive off with the
vehicle you’re looking for with
all questions answered and all
concerns taken care of.
Best Auto Insurance
Viale Insurance Agency
Lee
As a third generation family
co m p a ny, V i a l e I n s u ra n c e
continues to follow the same
mission they’ve followed for
the better part of a century –
to meet the insurance needs
of Southern Berkshire County.
Always available for a free
rev i ew a n d eva l u at i o n o f
anyone’s present coverage,
they’re committed to seeing
their clients properly protected.
Treating customers as more
than just a number, they strive
to offer personalized service
to each individual who comes
through the door, echoing their
motto of “our customers, our
neighbors, our friends.”
Best Pharmacy
CVS
Great Barrington
At the Barrington CVS, when
it comes to pharmacy and
prescription service, “we’re at
your service” is more than just a
clichéd expression. With expert
care and service and a focus on
value and convenience to the
customer, they offer myriad
services that make it easier
than ever to fulfill prescription
needs. Their text alerts, mobile
pharmacy management and
ReadyFill automatic prescription
filling options aid in tailoring
their services to your schedule.
A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e y h e l p
customers stay in the know with
their Care 1on1 personalized
review offered whenever a new
prescription is transferred, on
top of several online sources to
keep customers informed, like
the drug information center, pill
identifier and drug interaction
warnings.
Best Gift Shop
to better accommodate and serve
customers.
Karen Keenan Gifts
and Home
Lee
Best Antiques
Candles, fashion, toys, home
décor, cards, baby toys and
clothes, framed pictures, knickknacks, potpourri – it’s hard
NOT to find what you’re looking
for at Karen Keenan’s Gifts. And
on the off chance you can’t find
it, the friendly and helpful staff
will gladly help out. Whether
it’s a birthday, a wedding, an
anniversary or just an anytime
gift, Karen’s should be everyone’s
first stop.
Best Towing
R.W.’s Towing
Lee
As the towing and recovery
experts of Western Mass.,
R.W.’s pride themselves on their
extremely professional service
made possible by their constantly
updated modern facilities and
equipment. As an AAA-affiliated
institution with a full range of
towing equipment, they can
handle all towing needs no
matter how specialized, including
motorcycles, exotic cars, fullyloaded tractor trailers and much,
much more. They also have car
rentals for business and travel uses
Cupboards and Roses
Sheffield
The fact that owner and
operator Edith Gilson still has the
impassioned soul of a collector
after more than two decades
antiques dealing in the Berkshires
has earned her a reputation for
her discerning eye and expert
knowledge when it comes to
European and Scandinavian
furniture. In addition to chests,
tables, commodes, desks and
more, Cupboards and Roses’
collection of German and Austrian
armoires and hope chests is one of
the most extensive in the world.
Gilson’s eye for detail has garnered
a collection both expansive and
exquisite.
to shop us 24/7
www.leehardware.com
Best Audio and Home
Theater equipment
Tune Street
Great Barrington
No matter where it is you’re
trying to put a speaker around
your home, Tune Street has all
the products and know-how
Cont’d on Page 28
R.W. ‘s Inc. is here to serve you!
Complete Automotive
Services
Benjamin Moore® has paint products for all your needs.
The More You Shop The More You Earn
Specializing in:
Domestic Computer Diagnosis
Late Model Tune-ups
Fuel Injection Service
AUTO RENTALS
Light and Heavy Duty Towing &
Recovery • Car Carrier Service
Local & Long Distance Hauling
Screen Repair • Pool Supplies • Delivery Services
find us
on facebook
R.W.’s Inc.
TOWING & REPAIRS
Regular Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7-5:30, Sat. 7-5, Sun. 9-3
243-0946
Route 102 Lee, MA 01238
26
TBRM The Best 2013
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TBRM The Best 2013
27
Shopping
Readers’ Choice
413-243-2689
69 Main St., Lee, MA 01238 • Open 7 Days A Week
Situated in the heart of the Berkshires,
a shop full of unique & beautiful gifts for all occasions:
Engagements • Weddings & Anniversaries • Showers
Baby & Toddler • Hostess • Birthday • for Someone Special
And many decorative accessories for your home.
Stop by and let our able staff assist you in finding the perfect gift – and we’ll wrap it, too!
necessary to help you get a oneof-a-kind, high quality audio or
home theater system. Bookshelf
speakers, standing speakers,
landscape speakers, they’ve got it
all, and at price-protected value.
And for the audiophiles, they’ve
got all their products lined up
and ready to be blown away by,
so you know exactly what kind
of experience you’re bringing
home with you. They even have
nifty home automation products
that allow you to conveniently
and efficiently stream a range of
household systems such as music,
video, security, lighting, HVAC
and networking into one point
of interface and contact. When
your entertainment room needs
a facelift, head to Tune Street.
Best Stationery
Paperdilly, Inc.
– SINCE 1981 –
OFFICE & SCHOOL SUPPLIES
PRINT • COPY • FAX
CRANE STATIONERY
GIFTS FOR KIDS & GROWNUPS
CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING
(413) 243-1928
74 MAIN STREET, LEE, MA
MONDAY-FRIDAY 9-5, SATURDAY 9-2
Doug & Sally Wilcox
Paperdilly, Inc.
Lee
Does anyone out there really and
truly enjoy shopping for stationery
and office supplies? That’s why
Paperdilly’s streamlines the process
as much as possible with one-stop
shopping for all your stationery
and office supplies needs. In
addition to myriad paper products,
they have cards, art supplies, fax
and computer supplies, maps,
fine writing instruments, stamps,
checks, invitations - pretty much
anything you could possibly be in
the paper market for. They also
offer special orders, as well as dry
mounting, matting and custom
picture framing services. For all
those needs and more, Paperdilly
Inc. helps you streamline it and
get it done.
Best New
Auto Dealer
Haddad Automotive
Pittsfield
More than eight decades of service
to Berkshire customers has made
Haddad synonymous with quality
selection, excellent prices and
friendly service. Whether you’re
looking for a premium make and
model to get from A to B in style
or a reliable, affordable vehicle
for the whole family, Haddad
has all the bases covered. Their
courteous and honest staff will
make sure you’re leaving the lot
with the vehicle you need.
Best Storage
Facilities
B-Safe Storage
Lee
28
TBRM The Best 2013
Whether you’re looking for
on-site storage facilities or
portable storage, B-Safe Storage
is the number one choice for
the solution to storage needs.
Offering cost-effective, flexible
solutions tailored to meet the
individual needs of any customer,
the safety and security of their
well-lit on-site facilities and
the convenience and flexibility
of their portable storage units
provide the storage expertise for
whatever you need to keep safe,
secure and stored, even autos.
Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School
Igniting­a­Lifelong­Love­of­Learning­for­over­40­Years
Best Liquor Store
Domaney’s Liquors
Great Barrington
Since 1973, Domaney’s has
supplied the widest selection
of best products at the best
prices in the Berkshires for
beer, wine and spirits. Their
eye-popping inventory, from the
highly affordable to the finest
discriminating tastes – their
ever-present specials are tough to
beat – is complimented regularly
by fun community events such as
wine and beer tastings as well
as showcases from breweries,
vineyards and distilleries from
near and far.
Best Family
Clothes Shopping
Ben’s
Lee
Amidst the depersonalized,
cookie-cutter big-box clothing
stores, friendly, hometown
customer service makes Ben’s
stand out and stand tall. Serving
the Berkshires for eight decades,
they offer high-quality brands
to suit everyone’s needs, from
toddlers’, children’s, women’s
and men’s, including men’s big
and tall department, as well as
a generous footwear selection.
ParentBerkBike&Board_413_Layout
­-Infant­through­Grade­8­­­
www.gbrss.org
1 3/15/13
1:43 PM Page ­­­
1 Great­Barrington,­MA
Experience
the exhilaration
Experience
the exhilaration
of the ride
of the ride Berkshire Bike & Board
29 State Road
Berkshire
& Board MA
Gt.Bike
Barrington,
29 State
Road
413-528-5555
Gt. Barrington, MA
413-528-5555
502 East Street
Pittsfield,
502 East
Street MA
413-445-8888
Pittsfield,
MA
413-445-8888
Best Country
Department Store
Jack’s Country Squire
Great Barrington
Just because you’re out in
the country doesn’t mean
you have to sacrifice a good
shopping experience. Jack’s
Country Squire offers highquality clothing and footwear
for the entire family, with a
huge selection of the finest
name brands. Whatever it is
you’re looking for, you can
find here with the aid of their
ever-courteous and helpful
staff, who dutifully tend to the
individual clothing needs of
each customer.
Group Road Rides for All Abilities
Tuesdays & Thursdays starting at 5:30 pm
Free of Charge
Mention this ad and receive a free Berkshire Bike & Board water bottle!
Cont’d on Page 30
berkshirerecord.net
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TBRM The Best 2013
29
Shopping
Editors’ Choice
Maybe We
All Can't Be
Beautiful . . .
Best Town
for tag sales
Sheffield
. . .but we can make
beautiful music! Don't
believe us? We'll show
you how you can bring
more joy, fun and yes,
beauty, into your life with
MUSIC!
We have wonderful
musical instruments,
accessories and gifts that
will delight and inspire the
beauty in you!
Come on over and see us
sometime!
the
MusicStore
30
Best town
swap shack
Monterey
Tag sales too expensive for
your taste or budget? Hit up
Monterey’s swap shack. Now, you
need to have the town transfer
sticker, but for the grand price of
$50, you can dump your trash and
pick up someone else’s unwanted
material goods every week,
Best Farmer’s
Market
Great Barrington
All right, it’s the Berkshires.
The whole county is a Farmer’s
Market, once the growing season
finally hits. But if you like to mix
a little seeing-and-being-seen in
with your virtuous shopping, go to
Great Barrington. Yes, the parking
is a bit crazy, but it always is in
Great Barrington. It’s part of the
fun. Get your organic salad greens
while dodging people, vendors
and small dogs, all before noon on
the weekends. It’s a good cardio
work-out, too.
Best Bookstore
The Bookloft
Great Barrington
Need a book and can’t wait for
Amazon to ship your paperback
in 14 days? Go to the Bookloft.
Yes, it’s in a strip mall and within
sniffing distance of the infamous
Golden Arches, but it’s a really
Merrell • Woolrich • Smartwool • Sorel
Jack’s Country Squire
Quality Clothing & Footwear
for the Entire Family
316 Main Street
Great Barrington, MA
(413) 528-1390
Since 194 7
New Balance • Sperry • Keen • Levis
TBRM The Best 2013
good book store. They have the
obligatory tables of cheap books
outside, and they even have
poetry readings indoors. And
while the used book section can
be a little thin, they do have a lot
of local authors. Go support your
neighbors and buy their books
at an independent bookstore.
The overwhelming feeling of
satisfaction is on the house.
Best Music Store
The Music Store
Great Barrington
A destination for players of
all instruments, The Music
Store is a veritable paradise
for guitar players, offering an
expansive variety of instruments
fit to every budget, from great
bargains on used instruments to
professional-level, hand-made
guitars that would make any
luthier proud. They’re also an
excellent resource for instrument
maintenance, offering extremely
beneficial and affordable services
to keep your baby tuned up and
sounding great.
Runner Up
The Magic Fluke
Sheffield
With over 50,000 instruments
sold over 13 years of exceptional
service, the only name in ukuleles
in the Berkshires is the best
destination in the area for
sturdy, affordable and reliable
ukes. Specializing in fluke and
flea models, all of their reliable
products are proudly and solidly
built in the U.S. with only the
finest regionally-sourced wood
and materials.
Best Antique
Furniture
Susan Silver Antiques
Sheffield
Beautiful antiques abound in the
marketplace, but what Susan
Silver buys must possess that little
extra that elevates a piece from
the very nice to the exceptional.
Since leaving a career creating
sets for commercial film and
advertising, she has put her
zeal and stylist’s eye to work
searching out and hand-picking
the best quality items for her
shop. For over 30 years her
regular trips to England and the
continent always include a great
deal of time and effort spent
seeking out these unique objects.
Special emphasis is always on
the unusual and one of a kind
forms of English furniture and
craftsmanship.
294 Main Street
Great Barrington, MA 01230
(413) 528-4999
www.tunestreetgb.com
Celebrating
20 Years
• Adidas • Spanx • NYDJ •
• UGG • Columbia • Naot •
87 Railroad St.
Great Barrington, MA 01230
413.528.2460 * www.themusicstoreplus.com
For those looking for a fun
afternoon out in the open air,
or people hoping to furnish
their apartment on the cheap
side, tag sales are a wonderful
thing. And the town, by far, for
pawing through the relics of
complete strangers is Sheffield.
The plethora of antique stores
hint at attics bursting with
forgotten and unwanted things,
and the beneficiary is you –armed
with $20 in cash and barely
solvent. Go down Route 7 and get
your three-legged coffee table.
without having to dig through
the dumpster. The swap shack is
a veritable goldmine for books,
once you get past the horrors
of the 1970’s paperbacks. And
who knows, you might also pick
up a muffin pan while you’re at
it. And, yes, it’s all free.
berkshirerecord.net
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TBRM The Best 2013
31
The Best
Dining out
highlights
Jason Gordon Macioge
Boy Oh Boy!
W
ith all the shopping, hiking, skiing, tail shaking,
theater-going, costume changing, and other general
gadding about, a girl can work up an appetite. And if
you’re a foodie like me, meals can become a destination. Hello Berkshires! And welcome to Dining Out.
Local is how all the cool kids eat these days. Farm to
table is the bee’s knees. And boy oh boy, does the Berkshires
ever do local: berries and peaches and apples and pears; micro
greens and snap peas and fiddlehead ferns; chard and zucchini
and “eat more kale”; beef on the up and up raised with TLC;
their grass-chomping dairy cousins (in high pastures) offering
milk and creamy cheeses; free roaming chickens clucking for
joy; locally blended coffees and teas; maple syrup and honey
(the knees aren’t the only twitchin part of the bees); true love
and home grown tomatoes.
As for preparation, let’s just say we have
some eateries who know their way around
a beet. Whether big city culinary artists gone rustic or native home grown
maestros whipping up their own locally
inspired illuminations, these chefs are on
the stick. Listen to me when I say, these
places are the living end. Not to mention
the hospitality and atmosphere, which are
prime. Upscale, low key, traditional and exotic, you
dream it, it’s all here. Got some ankle-biters?
Not to worry—there are plenty of family joints, too.
Or maybe you’re the kind that likes to light some candles
and stay in for some choice home cooking. We’ve got the
spots for you to hunt and gather your goods to make some home
grown gastronomy that will knock your guests’ socks off.
And if that doesn’t do it, try some Sheffield gin.
So tilt your peepers here, for a look at the best the Berkshires
has to offer your palate. I’m ravenous just talking about it!
32
TBRM The Best 2013
Personal Best
berkshirerecord.net
The Best Burger
A brilliant burger really is a thing of beauty.
But it’s not enough to simply offer up a
mammoth portion of juicy, tender grassfed beef on a bun; it takes more than just
great hamburger to make for a great burger.
True, Bell & Anchor’s burger is a huge, melt
in your mouth morsel of perfectly-cooked
ground beef that will give the tendons in
your mouth a run for their money – but
it’s the accoutrements that put the
icing on the cake. Never even
mind the fact that it’s flanked
by some of the best fries
the county has to offer as
well, but in-house pickled
red onions? Home-made
mayo? That’s the sort of
attention to detail that pays
off in delicious dividends at
Bell & Anchor.
From fine bistros to pizza shacks, Jason Gordon Macioge is a veritable giant of Berkshire
dining, with five eating establishments across the central and southern Berkshire region. Handpicked by NBC from a field of over 20,000 candidates to participate in the series America’s
Next Great Restaurant in 2010, Macioge clearly embodies that greatness as a restaurateur
in his innovative, varied and elegant culinary style. Whether it’s a dynamite slice of pizza at
Betty’s Pizza Shack or a masterfully handcrafted meal at Frankie’s, his attention to detail, atmosphere and great service is trumped by only one thing – an undying obsession for great food.
What is/are your favorite parts of the Berkshires?
My favorite parts of the Berkshires are the wonderful open spaces that I can take my two
Basset Hounds Peaches and Bubba on for undisturbed quiet hikes. Especially Bullard Woods
down by Stockbridge Bowl and The Tyringham Cobble where I live.
What, if anything, makes the Berkshires a unique environment for dining?
The Berkshires are very unique in terms of the outstanding restaurants in the area in spite
of its small population. There are not many rural areas in the United States that offer such a
high caliber of dining and amazing restaurants.
What is your favorite junk food/guilty pleasure food in the county?
Hot Dog Ranch in Pittsfield for mini hot dogs with everything on them, or, as
I would say, “all dressed.” And I am a sucker for a Reeses’s Pieces sundae at
Friendly’s with extra hot fudge, marshmallow and peanut butter sauce!
Is the Berkshires dining scene missing anything?
The Berkshires are missing two things in my opinion, but I am going to
keep that to myself – I don’t want anyone stealing my ideas! I am working
on filling the gap!
Let’s say you’ve got friends visiting who have never been to the Berkshires –
where do you take them out for dinner?
I am taking them to my restaurant Bistro Zinc. I am going to try and show off!
If you had to have your last meal ever in the Berkshires, where and what would it be?
For sure at Blantyre. I would have chef Arnauld Cotar create a 12-course tasting menu for me
and my beautiful girlfriend Susanne. I would also start with a bottle of 1996 Dom Perignon, a
Magnum of 1997 Harlan estate and finish it off with a half bottle of chateau d’yquem. Blantyre has one of the finest wine lists in the country and is such a magical place to dine. Ann
Fitzpatrick Brown, the owner, has created one of my favorite places in the world!
The Best Vegan
Considering the slew of great carnivorous
dining options available in the Berkshires,
it seems a challenge to create a standout
menu that’s friendly to vegetarians and vegans alike while staying easy and affordable.
It seems like an even BIGGER challenge to
make oatmeal a highlight beside outstanding paninis and smoothies, but Riverbend
Café pulls it off in style. Sure, the house
special of peaches, walnuts, butter and
cinnamon-brown sugar is fantastic, but it’s
the sheer amount of choice of delicious
fresh fruits and other mix-ins that make
vegan dining AND oatmeal just about as
good as they’re going to get..
berkshirerecord.net
What’s the best dessert you’ve ever had in the Berkshires?
Hands down at the old Church St. Cafe when my great friend Clayton Hambrick owned it. He
made the best mocha ice cream torte. I crave it to this day!
Best place for a cheap, quick, easy bite to eat?
Betty’s Pizza Shack. Lunch special every day, two huge slices of pizza. They have a choice
of plain, pepperoni or the triple-topper for $5, and it includes a large drink. Best value and
great quality.
What are your top 10 places to have dinner in the Berkshires?
That is tough; there are so many wonderful places to eat. In no particular order: John Andrews, Bistro Zinc, Blantyre, Nudel, Wheatleigh, Chez Nous, Allium, Cafe Lucia, Old Inn On
The Green, The Old Mill.
Any up and coming chefs or restaurants in the area to keep an eye on?
Bjorn Somlo at Nudel is already way up there. He has been nominated for some serious awards
in the food world, makes amazing food, busts his ass and is also very smart. I have a feeling
he has a few great concepts up his sleeve and I’m sure he will carry out whatever plans they
might be and really change the dining scene in the Berkshires even more than he already has.
TBRM The Best 2013
33
Best Chinese
The Best
Koi
Great Barrington
Readers’ Choice
dining Out
Best Co-op Market
Berkshire Co-op
Great Barrington
As a consumer cooperative
market, Berkshire Co-op not
only strives to provide high
quality food products to its loyal
consumer base, but also to be
a transformative force in the
community. In addition to offering
affordable and healthful groceries
and food stuffs, they also aim
to nurture social and economic
well-being in an environmentally
sensitive manner, cultivating a
sustainable local and regional
economy and a more vibrant
community.
Best seafood
and produce
guido’s fresh
marketplace
Great Barrington
G u i d o ’s h a r m o n i o u s l y
blends a classic marketplace
atmosphere with up to the
minute goods and services,
including an exceptionally fresh
and robust produce section
and a mouthwatering seafood
selection. For those looking for
natural, organic and additivefree food products, Guido’s is a
destination for the discriminating
food shopper seeking great
seafood and the veggie on the
side.
best greek
restaurant
aegean breeze
Great Barrington
For a trip to the Greek coast for
your taste buds, look no farther
than Aegean Breeze. Revered for
their specialties of grilled whole
fish and tasty tapas, they expertly
blend authentic Greek cuisine
with American influences in a cozy
atmosphere. Soak up the Greek
Isle experience on their patio in
the warmer months, or warm
up next to the fireplace in their
rustic indoor dining space with an
expansive bar and wine list.
best italian
restaurant
fiori
Great Barrington
Whether it’s brunch, dinner or
34
TBRM The Best 2013
late-night offerings, Fiori strives
to offer a unique and authentic
take on Northern Italian cuisine.
With a focus on natural food,
they serve homegrown and
handmade dishes, utilizing the
freshest ingredients from local
produce and dairy farms, as
well as handmaking their own
pastas and growing their own
herbs in-house using their stateof-the-art hydroponic table. All
this with live music events, wine
pairings and menu tastings make
Fiori the go-to destination for the
fresh flavors and aromas of Italy
right in Berkshire County.
best japanese
shiro
Great Barrington
At Shiro, they follow the Japanese
tradition that food should satisfy
all the senses. Their cuisine is
always prepared with great care
and beautifully presented with
the freshest ingredients in ways
that delight the eyes as well as
the taste buds. Known for having
the freshest fish in Berkshire
County and their light and crispy
tempura appetizer, they also
offer a bounty of sushi dishes and
special rolls and, for a fun night
out with the family, their Hibachi
chefs’ spectacular performances
are full of fun surprises and will
dazzle the eyes and the tongue.
With such an array of tasty dishes
and flavors, you’ll want to return
again and again. Every occasion
is a special occasion at Shiro’s.
best breakfast spot
martin’s restaurant
Great Barrington
Martin’s has served the Berkshires
since 1989 with one simple
formula: a cozy atmosphere plus
simple, delicious food. From
scrumptious breakfast standards
like buttery French toast and
crisp veggie omelets to exquisite
specials such as their asparagus
eggs Benedict, they offer great
bang for your buck with delicious,
thrifty breakfast options. The
paper mats and crayon portraits
that line the tables are just proof
of the warm, family friendly
environment that makes for
a great breakfast on Sunday
morning – or any morning.
As a fixture of Berkshire oriental
cuisine, Koi rivals even Chinatown’s
best. Their fresh, flavorful dishes
– from the Szechuan dumpling
platter and the seafood fried
rice to the standards of Chinese
comfort food such as General
Tsao’s chicken and wonton soup
– are always served hot and to
order with excellent service by an
accommodating wait staff. Their
killer cuisine can either function
as an exquisite experience to
go or in their ornate, expansive
dining room.
Best Caterer
Marketplace
Great Barrington
While the Marketplace Kitchen
does many things right, the
heart and soul of their enterprise
has always been catering. With
elegantly delicious food and an
ability to tailor their menu to
any event, they provide great
eats with a unique experience
– the way food is meant to be
celebrated. Whether it’s home,
office or somewhere in between,
no event is too big or too small,
too sophisticated or too basic for
Marketplace to satisfy everyone’s
tastes.
Best Smoothies
Riverbend Café
Great Barrington
The highlight of the simple and
delicious fare at Great Barrington’s
best organic vegetarian café is
most certainly the smoothies.
With 21 different flavors (one, the
soy berry blast, made with soy milk
so vegans and lactose intolerant
customers can get their smoothie
fix), it’s hard not to find something
you like on their delectable list
of frozen beverage treats. They
nail the standard chocolate and
fruity smoothie options, but also
offer some unique flavor combos
as well, such as the drama queen
(raspberries, lime, orange and
apple cider) and the healthy blend
of the “veggie cocktail” (beets,
carrots, ginger, pear and parsley).
lime pie – to the wacky – the Elvis,
a cupcake with chocolate, banana,
peanut butter and bacon – and
everything in between. They
even have gluten free and vegan
options, making sure no sweet
tooth goes unsatisfied.
Best New
Restaurant
Bell & Anchor
Great Barrington
Bell & Anchor checks off all
the attributes of the stellar
restaurant list: warm, rustic and
stylish décor, check; a seasonal
and locally-sourced menu with
expertly-crafted entrees, check;
a comfortable, casual bar with an
excellent wine selection, check; a
knowledgeable and attentive wait
staff to bring it all together, check.
Whether you’re stopping in for the
jaw-stretching, taste bud-pleasing
signature burger or trying one of
the daily specials, you can’t miss
at Bell & Anchor.
Best Restaurant
of the Year
Family Friendly
Capuccino, Espresso, Shakes
10 Bottle Beers, 6 Beers on Tap
A Nice Selection of Wines
413-528-8226
282 Main Street, Great Barrington
Open 7 days
from 7am-9pm
Café Adam
Great Barrington
Come Enjoy The
Best Greek Restaurant
In The Berkshires!
Open 7 Days . 11am - 10pm
for Brunch, Lunch & Dinner
Thursday Night Is Lobster Night!
413.528.4001 . aegean-breeze.com
327 Stockbridge Rd., Great Barrington
With an expert flair for modern
European cuisine, you won’t
forget the experience at Café
Adam. Their lunch and brunch
consists of Parisian street food
and European classics, while
their fine dining offers whole
roasted fish, aged duckling and
hand-made pasta dishes with a
menu that changes nearly weekly
and ingredients locally sourced
whenever possible. Their move
up the road to a new location will
allow them to have a bar, private
dining room and outdoor seating,
while their menu will remain as
exquisite as ever.
Serving the
Best Chinese Food
in Berkshire County
Cont’d on Page 36
Best Cupcakes
Barrington Bites
Great Barrington
302 State Road, at Route 23
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Located within the confines of
the Chef Shop is the Berkshires’
sweetest treat: Barrington Bites,
specializing in mini cupcakes with
more than 40 flavors. They offer
classic flavors as well as deliciously
diverse specialty flavors ranging
from the decadent – banana
hazelnut, hot fudge sundae, key
TEL: (413) 528-5678 • FAX: (413) 528-5680
email: richen50@yahoo.com
berkshirerecord.net
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TBRM The Best 2013
35
DININg out
Readers’ Choice
Best New York
Style Deli
Barrington Bagel
Great Barrington
Barrington Bagel personifies the
three great attributes of a New
York Deli: No muss, no fuss and
fantastic eats. Great for an early
morning breakfast, a coffee pit
stop or a casual sit down meal,
their offerings – ranging from
a chocolate bagel with fresh
strawberry cream cheese to
absolutely dynamite pastrami and
chicken club sandwiches – will
leave no one disappointed.
Best Sushi
Bizen
Great Barrington
pittsfield &
great barrington
massachusetts
GUIDOSFRESHMARKETPLACE.COM
For the best Japanese cuisine this
side of Tokyo, look no further than
Bizen’s extensive and delicious
sushi offerings for sushi rookies
and raw fish aficionados alike. Grab
the Bento box if you’re looking
for a good sushi deal under $20,
or go sushi-crazy and try all their
offerings from a Bezerkshire roll to
king crab-stuffed California rolls, all
facilitated by a quick, professional
and friendly wait staff.
Best breakfast deli
Otto’s
Lee
Plan Your Event With Us!
If a great breakfast sandwich is
what you’re craving, why not go
to the guys who do breakfast AND
sandwiches exceptionally well?
For the best egg, cheese and meat
combo between bread that you’re
going to find, look no further than
Otto’s. Or, if you’re up for a heartier
meal, step up to their specialty
omelettes - from the spicy South of
the Border omelette to the heart
Philly Cheese Steak omelette to
the innovative Reuben omelette.
Otto’s is a shoo-in to replace Folgers
as your favorite part of waking up.
Best Seafood
On-Site Catering & Entertainment
Showers • Rehearsals • Receptions • Business Gatherings
Consider us for your special day! Our restored caboose is available by reservation
for private parties as is the entire Station. Whatever the occasion, whatever the size
of your gathering – Your total satisfaction is our goal! Few restaurants offer the same
unmatched service, the magical atmosphere and the dedication to an excellent culinary
experience. Owner Darleen and our wonderful staff await your arrival.
Open 6 days a week Tuesday-Sunday
Railroad Street, Lee, Massachusetts
(413) 243-2082 ~ www.SullivanStationRestaurant.com
36
TBRM The Best 2013
Salmon Run fish house
Lee
Novel and tasty seafood for an
affordable price is the name of the
game at Salmon Run. With a menu
chock full of appetizers, lunch
specials and seafood sandwiches,
their specialty is their namesake.
They offer fresh, delicious, ample
portions of salmon cooked just
the way you love it – char-grilled
with shrimp and garlic butter –
and plenty of ways you’ve never
imagined – garlic potato-encrusted
salmon, or grilled Buffalo salmon
with baked gorgonzola.
Best Doughnut Shop
Home Sweet Home
Doughnut Shoppe
Great Barrington
There’s a reason this place is
called “doughnut heaven” by
customers. With in-house handmade doughnuts that melt in your
mouth as well as muffins and other
pastries, their fresh, creative and
high-quality offerings will turn
anyone into a breakfast pastry
lover. From classics like chocolate
glazed and apple cider doughnuts
to maple frosted and key lime pie
flavors, their delectable doughnuts
and warm, friendly service will have
you saying “Dunkin who?”
Best Ice Cream
Store
SoCo Creamery
Great Barrington
“One spoonful and you’re
hooked,” is a good motto for this
micro-creamery, whose 20 years
of varied and taste bud pleasing
sweet and creamy offerings have
earned a deserved reputation as
some of the best ice cream in the
region. The key to their success
is the small batches – never
mass produced – to insure every
cone and dish is consistent is its
amazing freshness, texture and
flavor. It also allows them to deal
in an expansive and ever-changing
myriad of flavors, from the classics
(dirty chocolate and hazelnut are
two big customer favorites) to the
wildly exotic (seasonal offerings
like Macintosh graham cracker
and hot chocolate marshmallow).
LOCKE, STOCK & BARREL
Best Beer
Barrington Brewery
Great Barrington
Barrington Brewery stands alone
not only as the first East coast
brewery to use solar power to
brew their beer, but as brewers
with an unmatched passion and
attention to detail to produce
the best possible pint of liquid
satisfaction. With tried and true
mainstays like the big, bold Ice
Glenn IPA and the dark, rich Black
Bear Stout, as well as seasonal
favorites like the Firecracker
Independence Day Imperial IPA
when it comes to beer, it’s clear:
Barrington Brewery is the best.
SPECIALTIES
from the U.S. & Imported from Italy,
Germany, British Isles, France, Spain & more
Best Guacamole
Xicohtencatl
Great Barrington
The best Mexican cuisine thrives
SPECIALTY ITEMS
Duck Confit
Foie Gras
Cassoulet
Iberico
Ham Bellota
Hot Dry Sausages
Truffle Butter
Fennel Pollen
Spices from Around the World
20 Different Sea Salts
Preserves & Marmalade
CHEESES
Hand-Cut
Imported
Cheeses
Mon.-Sat. 9-5:30, Sun. 12-4
265 Stockbridge Rd., Great Barrington • 413.528.0800
Cont’d on Page 38
berkshirerecord.net
SPECIALTY MEATS
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TBRM The Best 2013
37
Serving The Area’s Freshest Seafood Since 1999
Fresh Maine Lobster & Lobster Rolls
Alaskan King Crab Legs • Char-Grilled Steaks
Chicken • Creative Pasta Dishes • Chilled Salads
Area’s Largest Children’s Menu
Open Daily 11:30 am (Closed Tuesdays)
(Open 7 Days A Week Memorial Day Weekend thru Labor Day)
78 Main Street, Lee, MA
413-243-3900 • www.salmonrunfishhouse.com
Best Chocolate
Catherine’s
Great Barrington
Offering
All Types
Of Catering
Beer • Wine • Deli
Groceries • Dairy
Soft Serve Ice Cream
139 Main Street, Sheffield, MA
413.229.6610
38
TBRM The Best 2013
Best Slice of Pizza
Manhattan Pizza
Great Barrington
Specializing in New York and
Sicilian style pies, Manhattan Pizza
earns its name as the best slice
of pizza this side of Little Italy.
They’ve got a variety of specialty
pizzas, such as your standard
Hawaiian, meat lovers and white
pizzas, but you’re better off getting
creative and crafting one of nearly
infinite topping combinations
from their formidable and varied
list of the freshest cheese, meats
and veggies.
Best Salads
Four Brothers
Great Barrington
In terms of selection alone,
Catherine’s has nearly every
chocolate shop beat, but it’s
the quality of the hand-dipped
delicacies that keep bringing
customers back for another treat.
In addition to exquisite truffles
and chocolates and an immense
selection of fudge (mint chocolate
is a good place to start), Catherine’s
also has hand-made chocolatecovered fruits, chocolate-covered
nuts, chocolate-covered chocolate
and pretty much anything else
one could imagine hand-dipped
in the sweetest, silkiest chocolate
around.
Ranging from small and appetitewhetting to formidably heaping,
Four Brothers has the salad market
cornered. You can start your
Mediterranean meal off the right
way with a simple yet delicious
Greek or Italian antipasto salad, or
you can up the “anti” and make the
salad the main attraction. Between
the healthy Westport salad (field
greens with cranberries, walnuts
and gorgonzola), the heart Milford
salad (featuring bacon, cheddar,
cheese, turkey, egg and avocado)
and the Four Brothers favorite
Darien salad with feta, chicken and
bacon with balsamic dressing, this
is one place where the salad can
start and finish the meal.
Best Pizza and Pasta
Best Diner
Utilizing only the freshest highquality ingredients, Baba Louie’s
mixes the tried and true traditional
with the deliciously creative for an
endless array of tasty options for
food adventurers of all tastes and
dietary restrictions. Their simple
but mouthwatering evening pasta
dishes are uniquely made every
night depending on the availability
of local produce and cheese for a
different flavor experience every
night. And their flatbread pizzas,
with sourdough sourced from
local artisan bakers, run the gamut
Generous portions and good times
abound at this friendly locale at any
time, from a quick early morning
breakfast to a late night bite. It’s
tough to miss out on what you’re
looking for with their extensive
menu of comfort food, American
fare and all day breakfast – the
French toast, Paninis and friend
string beans are always a shoo-in.
Their wait staff is all that is should
be at a neighborhood diner: Cordial
and quick service, plus a friendly
vibe good for a laugh in between
bites.
Baba Louie’s
Great Barrington
Neighborhood Diner
Great Barrington
berkshirerecord.net
We buy produce from local farms when available
Housemade breads, soups, and salad dressings
Many vegan and gluten-free options
Organic juice bar, fresh smoothies, organic
coffee & teas
Open M–F 7:30am–5pm, Sa & Su 8am–5pm
403 Stockbridge Rd, Gt. Barrington
413.528.0858
Popular menu items: breakfast sandwich, breakfast buritto, french
Family-Style Seafood Restaurant
onf the ability to combine simple
yet fresh ingredients with spice
and flair for an uncomplicated,
full-flavored taste-bud experience
– and Xicohtencatl’s guacamole
especial is just that. Made to order
with a traditional method in a stone
molcajete, the standard order
includes tomato, onion, jalapeno,
garlic, cilantro, lime and salt, but
special requests are welcomed for
those who want to knock the wowfactor up even more with a personal
spin. Zesty, smooth and always
packed with flavor, their expertly
prepared guacamole is unique,
made to order and unparalleled
in exotic savor.
Free wifi, outdoor seating/dogs welcome, kid friendly/play area
Readers’ Choice
from expertly-executed traditional
masterpieces – the classic Queen
Margherita – to out of this world
creations – such as the Dirty Brutto,
featuring roasted red potatoes,
pesto, garlic and parmesan.
A GOOD START
TO THE DAY
toast, soy bacon BLT, fresh turkey reuben, salads.
DININg out
“HOME MADE GOODNESS FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS”
• 30 varieties of doughnuts made fresh on-site daily
• Cheese, almond, chocolate filled croissants
• Serving breakfast sandwiches all day
• Bagels with our own line of flavored cream cheeses
• 1/4 lb. Hebrew National hot dogs with homemade meat sauce
• Hot & iced organic coffee by Omar Coffee, and Harney Iced Teas
258 Stockbridge Rd. (Rt. 7) , Great Barrington
413.717.4144
Closed Mondays.
49 RAILROAD STREET
GREAT BARRINGTON, MA
413-528-5455
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Memorial Day–Labor Day.
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
39
DININg OUT
Editors’ Choice
cA2
moved & improved
cafeADAM
420 Stockbridge rd ste 3
Great Barrington,
MA 01230
413 528 7786
Best Pot Roast
Best Burger
Bell & Anchor
Great Barrington
This massive grass-fed
cheeseburger is the traditional
American classic done just right,
augmented by some excellent
homey touches that really bring
the burger to another level.
It’s absolutely smothered in
a cascade of gooey, melted
cheese – every inch of the handpacked patty, and even surplus
spilling off the side. But what
really sets this burger apart are
the down-home accoutrement
– red onions pickled in-house
and a side serving of homemade
mayonnaise. This adds a savory
zip and zest to an already flavorloaded mouthful of a burger
dripping with moist, tender flavor
and barely contained by the fresh,
soft inside toasted outside bun.
Perigee Restaurant
Lee
Perigee’s superb take on a
New England classic will fill
the heartiest appetites. With
massively thick chunks of juicy
braised beef, so tender it barely
stays together on your fork, the
mammoth mountain of meat is
joined by a myriad of fresh fall
veggies, including crisp Brussels
sprouts, hearty roasted potatoes,
pearl onions, lightly sweet glazed
carrots and the smooth savor of
butternut squash. It’s topped off
with delectable pan gravy that
softens up the already tender
brisket even more and fills the
dish with a rich, mouthwatering
savor. Complete the savor with
fresh cracked black pepper atop
and bon appétit.
Left Field Farm
Best Brunch
Middlefield, MA
Fiori
Great Barrington
Best Duck
Alta Restaurant
and Wine Bar
Lenox
Home of The Best
Handmade Chocolates
In The Berkshires
260 Stockbridge Road
Great Barrington, MA 01230
1-800-345-2462
www.catherineschocolates.net
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TBRM The Best 2013
There’s a reason this dish is one
of the few mainstays on Alta’s
ever-rotating seasonal menu – it’s
always a knockout. Pan-seared to
perfection and served in hearty
proportions, it’s cooked just right
at medium rare for that pink in
the middle, melt in your mouth
finish that’s so tender you won’t
even need your knife to cut it.
It’s topped off with a sinfully
sweet and salty caramel sauce
and served atop a velvety cloud
of mashed potatoes and a bed of
locally sourced veggies for a nearunbeatable culinary experience.
Served on a creamy cloud of
mashed potatoes, it’s flanked
by locally-sourced mushrooms,
tomatoes and broccoli, for an
earthy crunch and some added
color to the meal’s delightful
presentation.
Fiori’s steak and eggs is hands
down the best way to spend a
late Sunday morning. Hangar
steak with a crispy exterior and
a tender, pink center is flanked
by two perfectly-poached eggs
served alongside mouthwatering
veal hollandaise sauce, prepared
with red wine, shallots and
thyme for a complex and zesty
complement to the egg and steak.
In case that doesn’t fill you right
up (pro-tip: it does), it comes
with freshly flavorful garlic kale
and some lightly-browned toast
to soak up all of that yummy veal
hollandaise sauce. To complete
the brunch experience, try it with
their signature bloody Mary – a
quixotic concoction made with
house-infused vodka, the latter
of which is mixed on-location
with cherry and red peppers,
carrots, beets and red onions.
Breakfast and lunch can eat their
hearts out.
Community Matters.
Eat Local Food.
www.berkshire.coop
Cont’d on Page 42
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
41
DININg OUT
Best Dessert
Perigee Restaurant’s
S’mores bread pudding
Lee
Editors’ Choice
Best Oatmeal
Riverbend Café
Great Barrington
Best Pork Chops
Route 7 Grill
Great Barrington
A l ways a d e st i n at i o n fo r
discriminating carnivores, Route
7 Grill’s farm fresh pork chop
doesn’t dress up with any fancy
glazes or marinades. It’s just the
other white meat done expertly:
a juicy, thick slab of bone-in pork
seared to perfection swimming
in its own savor. Topping off the
generous portion of pork – so
moist and tender it practically
falls off the bone – is a flavorful
apple relish, sweet and tangy
and made with large bits of real
apple. Served alongside velvety
mashed sweet potatoes and
buttered collared greens, this
chop is a cut above the rest.
Oatmeal may seem like an odd
choice for a standout dish, but
the folks at Riverbend give
hot cereal a shot in the arm
with some amazingly flavorful
homemade oatmeal selections.
With 14 different toppings to
mix and match, the piece de
resistance is their house special
flavor combo. Warm, hearty
oatmeal is joined with juicy
slices of peace and jumbo walnut
chunks for a savor that’s both
sweet and satisfyingly crunchy.
Add on top a dollop of melted
farm-fresh butter and a sinful
cinnamon-brown sugar mix,
and you’ve got one of the best
breakfasts imaginable. Their
huge selection of mix-ins gives it
great replay value - you’ll never
have the same flavor combo
twice of oatmeal twice, and you’ll
never call oatmeal boring again
Best Steak
Cork and Hearth
Lee
Steak lovers, bring your appetite,
because this one’s simultaneously
a treat for the taste buds and a
feat for the stomach. Cork and
Hearth’s New York Strip is huge
- but its size is only paralleled
by its deliciousness. It’s cooked
absolutely perfectly to a tender,
juicy, pink finish. And for a real
treat, pop in when they’ve got
their steak special. The Konaencrusted version is their fantastic
New York Strip with a uniquely
scrumptious Kahlua cream glaze
and rubbed with peppercorn –
steak heaven. Aside from the
enormous portion of steak, it
comes with fresh bread, salad,
roasted red potatoes and grilled
veggies, so even the heartiest
of appetites will be bringing
some awesome N.Y. strip home
for tomorrow in a doggie bag - a
perfect steak-lover’s breakfast!
Best Lasagna
Frankie’s Ristorante
Italiano
Lenox
Piled high, Frankie’s recipe
incorporates spinach dough into
the mix, exquisitely rounding
out a classically powerful flavor
combination with an earthy
freshness most lasagnas couldn’t
dream of. Packed with enough
chunks of tender, juicy ground
beef to satisfy the heartiest of
appetites, it’s all held together by
a smooth, dreamy mix of melted
mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses
that flawlessly compliment the
rustic flavors of pasta, spinach
dough and beef ground beef.
The knockout punch, however,
is in the dynamite Bolognese,
with a subtle sweetness and
just the right amount of tonguetempting spice. Even after you’ve
devoured the dish, you’ll be
fighting the urge to lick the
plate clean.
The best subs and sandwiches
in Berkshire County
Perigee finishes off a meal right
with a quirky, delectable dish
that’s part dessert classic, part
campfire favorite. Mouthwatering
bread pudding meets graham
crackers, melted chocolate chops
and gooey marshmallow. Drizzled
with chocolate ganache and
topped with a dollop of whipped
cream, it’s a simple campground
dessert exquisitely executed.
Best Vegetarian/
Vegan Dining
Options
Riverbend Café
Great Barrington
Riverbend Organic Café is the
go-to destination for deliciously
and affordably dining vegan
or veggie, or even just healthy
eats. If they can make oatmeal
a to-die-for highlight of the
menu (and they do, with their
house special peaches, walnut,
butter and cinnamon-sugar), they
must be doing something right.
Between their oatmeal, endless
tasty smoothie combinations and
their array of sandwich and Panini
choices (try the vegetarian BLT,
made with avocado, vegetarian
bacon and homemade Thousand
Island dressing on sunflower
bread) it’s hard to miss with the
veggie and vegan options here.
Best Deli Sandwich
Barrington Bagel Co.
Great Barrington
Berkshire County’s widest selection
of subs, sandwiches & salads.
Call in your order, ready when you arrive.
230 Stockbridge Rd.
Great Barrington, MA • (413) 528-9720
42
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
When it comes to delicatessen
delicacies, Barrington Bagel Co.
reigns supreme with a sandwich
piled so high with pastrami that
it might be the best lunch in
the county – if you can fit your
mouth around it. This sandwich
exudes deli expertise – no muss,
no fuss. It’s just a heaping helping
of pastrami, expertly steamed to
retain a mouthwatering juicy savor
and tender texture. Simply topped
with a zesty deli mustard for a little
added zip, it’s served between
two fresh slices of cloud soft rye
bread – just thick enough to soak
up the flavorful drip of the juicy
succulence of the pastrami. Add
one quartered pickle slice, and
it’s as good as deli gets.
berkshirerecord.net
Best Bang for your
Buck dining
Joe’s Diner
Lee
Diners are always a shoo-in for
cheap and easy dining, but Joe’s
takes it to another level with
unbeatably affordable prices and
a laid back retro atmosphere of
friendly hospitality that will always
make for repeat customers after
the first visit. It’s tough to find a
restaurant nowadays that serves
up French toast by individual
triangles on the menu, but it’s just
as tough to grab a hearty breakfast
or lunch this good while barely
breaking a tenspot. Whether it’s
a fantastic French toast breakfast,
dynamite sausage and pepper
grinder for lunch, a full turkey
dinner or a killer hand-mixed
strawberry banana milkshake any
time, Joe’s is the place to go for
breakfast all day, a quick lunch or
a downhome dinner that’s easy
on the wallet and easier on the
taste buids.
Best Meat
Lovers’ Dining
The Meat Market
Great Barrington
Carnivores rejoice! The Meat
Market is the destination for
everything meat - not just an
expert butcher shop offering the
choicest highest variety of cuts
around, but also a great spot for
informal dining with some truly
unique - and tasty - offerings.
Since their menu is derived from
entirely locally-sourced meats,
their options are ever-changing,
but it’s tough to miss here if you’re
a meat fan. Stop by on Thursdays
for their weekly dinner specials,
expertly prepared by culinary
mastermind chef Jamie Paxton.
Best Homemade
Soups
Sullivan Station
Lee
Always homemade from scratch
and served hot and fresh, soups
are the appetizer of choice at
Sullivan Station for a reason.
Even in those large cauldrons,
the demand for their delicious
variety of soups can barely be
met. They’ve got all the classics,
like French onion, chowders and
vegetable, but the real treat is
their outside-the-box cheddar ale
soup, a hearty and scrumptious
beginning to any meal – or even a
quick, delicious meal on its own. In
fact, with all the awesome soups
on tap here, why not get real soupy
and have a three-course meal
entirely composed of soups - only
at Sullivan Station.
#1 Japanese Restaurant
In The Berkshires
Specializing In Sushi & Hibachi
105 Stockbridge Rd.
48B North St.
Great Barrington, MA
Pittsfield, MA
ph. (413) 528-1898
ph. (413) 236-8111
fax. (413) 528-6798
fax. (413) 236-9111
www.berkshiro.com
A Family Friendly Restaurant
We have the MLB & NFL Package!
Come watch your favorite team!
Sourdough Wheat
PIZZAS
12 DRAFT BEERS
FOOD AVAILABLE TO GO!
KENO • 11 TVs
The Locker Room
Sports Pub
KITCHEN OPEN 11AM - 10PM • 7 DAYS A WEEK
413-243-2662
ROUTE 20 • 232 Main St., Lee, MA
www.lockerroomsportsbar.com
TBRM The Best 2013
43
The Best
highlights
Nightlife
Dave Isby
The Right Time
L
ike the wise man once said darlings, “The Night Time is
the Right Time”, and that’s word from the bird. As you
probably guessed, it also happens to be my time, so let
me welcome you to Nightlife in the Berkshires. Now, if
there’s one thing I know it’s how to have a good time.
And you little duckies are going to reap the benefits of
Cousin Rosie’s vast experience.
Whether you’re one of the mushroom people (you know
who you are, the ones who only come out at night to play), or
just a Clyde looking for a Friday night bash, I’ve got the
formula for a twitchin’ time. The first step is to get
yourself chrome-plated. Don’t
get me wrong, you don’t have
to be a chick in skins to look
good, but if you’ve got a classy
chassis, you might as well keep
it polished, dig? Next you have to
find the spot where the band’s in
the pocket or the DJ is spinning hot
plates and the joint’s full up with
foxes. Finally when you get there
be sure to make the king’s jive with
cool expressions: Tell your date to
stable the horses while you
go inside to listen to that
cat bang his tub and ask
the bartender, “What’s
buzzin’, cousin?” I guarantee
you’ll get your kicks.
I’ll take you to places for live entertainment, we’ll hit all the
cool bars, clubs and other venues. So let’s split with our heels
on fire, ‘cause these joints are radioactive. It’s time to explore
the Best of Berkshire Nightlife...
44
TBRM The Best 2013
Personal Best
berkshirerecord.net
Best Local Hangout
It’s hard to overestimate how big of a
nightlife boon this little establishment is
to the area. It’s centrally and convenient
located, it’s right down the street from
Neighborhood Diner and SoCo Creamery,
so it’s perfect for after dinner or before
dessert or some combination thereof, all
these things make up the tangible reasons
why The Well is the place to be when the
sun goes down. But it’s really the
warm, comfy welcoming soul
of the place that keeps the
patrons coming back every
weekend. Sure it’s got some
pretty steep stone steps to
ascend after leaving a bar
late on a Friday night, but
this small oversight is easily
forgotten after a good time.
As a maven of the Berkshire music and club scene, Dave Isby certainly has his finger on the
pulse of Berkshire Nightlife. A regular to the night time scene, Isby can be found mixing and
spinning some of the best tracks in the Berkshires. As the owner and head DJ of Millennium
Music, Isby has been entertaining the Berkshire County masses since 1992. Isby has DJ-ed
weddings and parties at Wheatleigh & Cranwell Resort, and just about every country club
in the Berkshires, including Pittsfield Country Club, Berkshire Hills Country Club, as well as
the ITAM Lodge, Italian/American Club to the VFW and American Legion halls throughout
the county. And when he’s not spinning, Dave Isby can be found running the show over
at Berkshire County’s hometown station, WSBS radio in Great Barrington, where he’s the
General Manager.
What are your favorite part of nightlife in the Berkshires?
Our super friendly restaurant business owners; they’re always willing to come share drinks
and conversation with you.
What’s unique, if anything, about the Berkshires nightlife compared to other regions?
Better? Worse?
It’s a different atmosphere, with so many options to choose from. You feel
comfortable no matter what door you walk in.
Where’s the best place to go on a Friday night after a long work week?
There’s too many great choices, so it’s impossible to choose just one. Let’s
do a restaurant/pub crawl in South County!
Is there a superiorly beloved bar or tavern in the Berkshires – our county’s
version of “Cheers,” if you will? If so, who is its “Norm?”
The Well, Barrington Brewery, Route 7 Grill, The Bridge Restaurant and Olde Heritage Tavern.
What are the choices of places to go depending on your age for music, ambience, etc.?
Sounds of Summer at the VFW every Tuesday in July and August. Relaxing Jazz at Castle
Street Cafe, an array of music stylings at Fiori Restaurant, and a funky feel at Gypsy Joynt.
Best Live Music
There’s nothing quite like live music, and
the scenic, natural beauty of the Berkshires
is well-complemented by a night on the
town that culminates in a laid back, comfy
café taking in some great music. Enter:
The Gypsy Joynt. Hangouts like this are a
great place to kick back and take in some
tunes, and it’s also an opportunity to keep
the creative part of the community creating. Whether it’s local talent or traveling
troubadours, Gypsy Joynt is a proud burner
of the iconic café music scene torch, and
a great evening spot that combines the
hipness of a low-key live music venue and
family comfort.
berkshirerecord.net
Are more young people (and married couples) coming back or remaining in the Berkshires
and why is that so?
A lot of young people are getting married in Berkshire County, which is awesome. It’s a
great place to live and raise a family!
Where’s the best place to go on a Tuesday night?
Always a good night for a Margarita at Xicoh’s! In the summer however, Tuesday nights in
July & August the best place to be is at the Great Barrington VFW for Sounds of Summer - a
free community concert series presented by WSBS...where else can you go for free music
on a Tuesday night? (Shamless plug)
Where’s the best place to go for live music?
So many places - Gypsy Joynt, Castle Street Cafe, Fiori, Bogie’s, Infinity Music Hall, Sullivan
Station to name just a few!
TBRM The Best 2013
45
The Best
Readers’ Choice
nightlife
Best Lounge/
Restaurant
Brick House
Housatonic
With a casual atmosphere
that’s both quaint and hip and
entertainment ranging from
folk pop and hip-hop MC’s to
burlesque shows, The Brick
House is the go-to place for a
no-frills night on the town. While
you take in the evening’s choice
entertainment, you’ll have your
druthers of delectable pub fare (if
you’re feeling adventurous, go for
the deep-friend, bacon-wrapped
hot dogs) and a top-notch, everrotating selection of craft brews
(Dogfish Head, Smuttynose,
Green Flash, oh my) as well as an
impressive list of spirits.
RUNNER UP
Club Helsinki
Hudson, N.Y.
Good food? Check. Good music?
Check. Great atmosphere? Check.
Club Helsinki’s dedication to bringing
a lively and community-oriented
nightlife destination to the Berkshire
area has proven them one of the
most happening joints in the area
come sundown. With 2 performance
spaces, full service restaurant with
outdoor dining and a gallery space,
they’ve played host for some of the
finest musicians (as well as activists,
poets and lecturers from time to
time), such as Pete Seeger, Norah
Jones, John Scofield and Levon
Helm. Combine that with their
locale’s rustic and atmospheric 19th
century industrial environment, and
you’ve got yourself one spirited night
out that will have you coming back
again and again.
Best Karaoke Bar
Michael’s Restaurant
and Lounge
Stockbridge
With a song bank of thousands upon
thousands upon THOUSANDS of
hits ranging from Michael Buble to
Metallica and every possible tune
in between, Michael’s Restaurant
and Lounge is the place to go in the
Berkshires if you want to scratch
the Karaoke itch. They’ve even got
46 different iconic TV show theme
songs if your idea of a night on
the town is a couple of brews and
serenading the night away to theme
of All in the Family. With outstanding
service and a warm and welcoming
atmosphere, Michael’s is the place
to sing your heart out.
Best Live Music
Gypsy Joynt
Great Barrington
For some audiophiles, there’s
nothing better than sitting down
with a good cup of joe and taking
in some great live music in a café
setting – and the Gypsy Joynt is
the place to do it. Their warm,
local community atmosphere is
comforting and welcoming, and
their dedication to satisfying their
customers on both the grub and
music fronts makes them hands
down the go-to music club in the
area. Their lineups frequently
feature the cream of the crop of
local talent, as well as some wellknown favorites – this spring, look
out for underground Gypsy folk
giants Bella’s Bartok, local folk
hero Annie Guthrie and Berkshire
favorites the B.T.U.’s.
Best Frozen Drinks
Fiori
Great Barrington
What makes Fiori’s frozen drink
selection is amazing is the same
thing that makes the rest of
their cuisine amazing – attention
to detail, a unique homemade
spin and an ultimate goal of the
customer walking away from
the table satisfied. For a frozen
beverage experience that is both
quirky and exquisite, look no
further than their gelato-infused
cocktails. With delicious options
like the strawberry bourbon
milkshake and the “Dreamsicle”
(house-made limoncello, orangina
and vanilla gelato), you’ll want to
sip these frozen treats even in the
dead of winter.
Best Local Hangout
The Well
Great Barrington
The Well has all the things to look
forward to every Friday night – great
food and drink, hospitable service
and a fun, casual atmosphere for
young and old alike. Aside from a
formidable spirits selection and a
choice round up of familiar and
unique bottled and draft beer (try
46
TBRM The Best 2013
the Blue Point toasted lager), it’s got
some bang-up bar food: Probably
the best pizza you can get at a pub
and some of the best wings in the
Berkshires. Throw in a couple of
dartboards, some occasional live
music and a great bar and wait staff,
and you’ve got a place you can go
every weekend – or weeknight.
Best Little Bar
The Well
Great Barrington
The Well may be the best little
pub around, but it’s a big draw
for a reason: A quality selection
of affordable drinks and grade-A
bartenders pouring them – it’s
as simple as that. Even when it’s
inevitably packed every Friday
night, the friendly and more-thancompetent staff make sure every
customer is satisfied. So whether
you’re there for the best Guinness
pour in town, a specialty “Well-tini,”
or if you brought your appetite for
their oft raved-about pesto pizza or
award-winning wings, you’ll quickly
see why The Well is the place for a
low-key night on the town.
Best Sports Bar
The Locker Room
Lee
With a name like The Locker Room,
they’d better be a good sports
bar – lucky for them, they are
indeed the place to go to catch the
game with some friends, or just
for a quick, scrumptious, no-frills
meal. With a dozen beers on tap
and as many big screen TVs lining
the walls, plus $.50 cent wing
nights on Sundays and Mondays,
it’s hard to imagine a better
place to be on gameday. And if
you’re there for a doubleheader,
move beyond the standard pub
fare and appetizers and grab
a meal from their incredibly
cheap, incredibly delicious lunch
and dinner selections – massive
grinders, mouth-watering pizzas
and lunch specials galore.
Best Local Bar
The Brick House
Housatonic
Located conveniently but out of
the way from hustle and bustle
in downtown Housatonic, The
Brick House is the perfect place
to casually tie one on after a day
at the office, or head over with
friends for a fun evening out.
They’ve got great, varied live music
and entertainment most weekend
nights, but the real highlight is
their rotating craft beer selection
that will tickle the fancy of even the
most discriminating brew snobs.
Cont’d on Page 49
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TBRM The Best 2013
47
Experience
the Difference
LUXURY
TRANSPORTATION
nightlife
Editor’s Choice
Best spot to go
after 5 on friday
the well
Great Barrington
When it’s quittin’ time, it’s time
to go to The Well. No matter how
packed this place gets - anyone
with a pulse who’s going out on
Friday or Saturday is bound to
end up here at some point - the
staff manages to crank out the
cold ones and tasty bar food with
uncompromising friendliness. For
a bar that’s easy on the wallet, they
have some awesome munchies,
from personal pizzas and burgers
to some of the best wings in the
area. And their drink selection
ain’t too shabby, either - any place
you can get $2 bottles of beer AND
a glass of Oban scotch is pretty
nice. Their motto is simple and
rings true: Eat, drink and be Well.
Runner Up
20 Railroad Street
Great Barrington
While this place might literally
be a hole in the wall (it’s iconic
open-air brick walkway to the
entrance exudes the retro cool of a
speakeasy), it’s the best hole in the
wall around. With an unbeatably
expansive beer, wine and spirits
selection and some of the best
pub fare around, their staff is as
friendly and courteous as can be,
and are also great at striking up
a conversation, if you’re in the
mood. Additionally, they’ve got a
great craft beer selection (heck,
just having Smuttynose IPA on tap
makes it a winner) and, if you’re
into that sort of thing, a fun list
of fruity cocktails (try the “lucky
clover” for a sweet nighttime treat).
(can you name the six countries in
the world whose name have only
one syllable? I certainly couldn’t).
If you win, you get $20 knocked
off your bill, so fill up on their
excellent comfort food and pub
fare, as well as their huge beer
and wine selection.
Best Place to Shoot
Pool
Bogie’s
Great Barrington
Three words: Free. Pool. Mondays.
There’s no better place to stop off
after work or on the weekend
and shoot some pool for a few
games, or a few hours. With superaffordable drinks and pub fare, as
well as some kickin’ music geared
for dancing on weekends, Bogie’s
is the billiards destination.
Best Trivia Night
Runner Up
Thursday nights at the Morgan
House mean two things - great
food and free fun. If you’re up
to flexing your trivial knowledge,
their free-to-play trivia is a
good mix of local tidbits and
international head-scratchers,
ranging from the super-easy
to some questions only the
hardened factoid freaks will get
Pool tables as far as the eye can
see and dirt cheap drink deals
make Casey’s an ideal billairds
hangout. And on top of some
awesome live music on most
weekend nights, they’re also
known for their spirited themed
parties - the beach parties in
the dead of winter tend to be
customer favorites. Show up
Morgan House
Lee
during the day when it’s dead for
cheap deals on table time, or come
in at night for a kickin’ time - it’s
always a pool party at Casey’s.
Casey’s Billiards
Pittsfield
Best place for dirt
cheap drink deals
The Sheffield Pub
Sheffield
One of Sheffield’s best-kept
secrets also happens to be the
best place to pay for a beer in
pennies. With draft beer prices
as low as $1, it’s a great place
to sit back and relax or shoot
some pool. You don’t really see
a whole lot of bars with “No
Cussin’” signs any more (the
actual enforcement rate of this
rule notwithstanding), but it adds
to the downhome feel of this nofrills establishment. They’ve got a
couple of pool tables, which you
should have plenty of quarters
for given how thrifty the drink
prices are.
PRO
SHOP
Weddings • Anniversaries
Proms • Corporate Travel
Valet Service • Limo Bus • Van Shuttles
24 Lanes of Automatic Scoring Bowling • 2 Pool Tables
18 Hole 2-Story Miniature Golf • Cove Grill
Full Service Bar • 8 Big Screen TV’s
Mass State Lottery and Keno
435 Greyloc k St., Lee, MA
413-243-1645
www.abbottslimo.com
Family Owned & Operated Since 1965
109 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA
413-528-1220 • www.covelanes.com
48
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
49
The Best
Arts & Culture
highlights
Personal Best
Rex Hearn
Rex Hearn is the founder of the Berkshire Opera, and winner of the Dame Irene Vanburgh
Award for elocution, acting in BBC Radio plays in Manchester, U.K. He writes arts reviews
and previews for the Berkshire Record and the Palm Beach Arts Paper in Florida.
What are your favorite parts of the Berkshires?
My favorite Berkshire settings are a) The Terrace at Cranwell to watch the setting sun over
the Lee Pinnacle and Laurel Lake, b) The beautiful gardens at The Mount. c) The 202-foot
wooden spire of Lee Congregational church – it’s inspiring and the tallest of its kind.
Creativity reigns
W
ell hey Dolly, Hi ya Daddy-o. I see you’ve found
your way to the Arts and Culture section. And not
a moment too soon.
My absolute favorite thing about living in the
Berkshires is the abundance of arts and culture. If
you just got off the bus, I’ll clue you in. If it can be
sung, sculpted, painted, printed or performed, we’ve got it here
in the Berkshires. If I hadn’t already given up the stage, you
might even find me treading the local boards. It wasn’t
that I wasn’t good — I was, darlings, trust me. I could
just never take it too seriously, it was all a big tickle to
me. Besides, whether I was in a West End musical, the
Le Coq Center in Paris, or even just down the road on
Broadway, my leading men were always falling in love.
They kept threatening to leave their wives. Talk about
a drag. Meanwhile, back at the ranch... Although it may
be my first love, theater is not the only thing to do and
see here in the Berkshires.
Whether you’re looking to cast an eyeball on the canvas
of a local artist or dig the sounds of world class musicians, I’ve got it covered: Artists and Galleries, Bookstores,
Ballet and Dance, Plays and Musicals, Music (all styles),
Children’s, Museums , and Venues.
So come on, if arts and culture’s your bag, this list of the
best of 2013 is really gonna snap your cap!
50
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
Teruko Kushi
Featuring works with titles like “Mystic
Muse,” “Dubstep Darwin” and “Psychedelic Nature Goddess,” the
inspiration for Teruko Kushi’s
breathtaking art is clearly
as multifaceted and diverse
as her brilliantly colorful
style. Effortlessly meandering between styles that evoke
‘60s free-love psychedaelia,
cyberpunk and stark minimalism, it is rare to see such a young
artist find their creative voice in an immediately recognizable yet ever-fluid and
surprising way.
Best Play Production
Historical drama is always a tough nut to
crack – you’ve got to do something new
with something old, something immediate and compelling with something that’s
already happened. Look no further than
Berkshire Theatre
Group’s spectacular
rendition of “Edith”
about President
Woodrow Wilson’s
second wife who
stepped into a position of heretofore unheard of political
power as a first lady after her husband fell
ill, largely considered the best work for the
stage offered this year. Dynamically brilliant set design, solid writing and directing,
standout performances throughout the
cast – this one had it all, and earned every
last lauding review it received.
berkshirerecord.net
What sets the Berkshires apart from other regions in terms of arts and culture?
The sheer length of the summer arts season – 4 months long. The quality is equal to, if
not better on occasion, than the Edinburgh Festival, which is three weeks, or Saltzburg’s
Mozart Festival of five weeks.
With the large amount of museums and educational resources in the area, what’s the
best place to take a young child for a fun, educational afternoon?
I would take a young child to a Barrington Stage matinee of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.”
Based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen, it runs at the Berkshire Museum Theatre
from July 24 to Aug. 11, all matinees on Wednesday and Thursday, except July 24.
What’s the one event you’re looking forward to most this year?
Berkshire Theatre Group’s production of “Oklahoma,” music by Richard
Rogers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein at The Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield from July 6 to 20. This innovative piece of musical theater shook off
so many shibboleths and set Broadway on new paths of composition.
Who’s the best rising artist of any medium in the Berkshires right now
in your opinion?
I would suggest Mark H. Dold, who will appear in Barrington Stage’s “Much Ado
About Nothing’” Aug. 8 to 25. Mark had earlier success in “Freud’s Last Session”
here and on Broadway as C.M. Forster. Rebecca Brooksher would be my runner up. She
is appearing in Berkshire Theatre Group’s “Anna Christie,” Aug. 24 to 31.
What are your choices for don’t-miss theater productions?
1) “Pygmalion” by George Bernard Shaw on the main stage of Williamstown Theatre Festival,
Jul. 17 to 27 with a mature Robert Sean Leonard (of “Dead Poets Society” fame) as Professor Higgins. This play was used as the basis for the film “My Fair Lady.” Listen for Eliza’s
original swear words, “Not Bloody Likely!” 2) “Hapgood” by Tom Stoppard, also at WTF on
the Nikos stage, with Kate Burton, who returns five years after her Williamstown “Hedda
Gabler” moved to Broadway. “Hapgood” is about a British Intelligence Chief exposing a Soviet double agent, Jul. 10 to 21. 3) “Anna Christie” by Eugene O’Neil on the Fitzpatrick Main
Stage of Berkshire Theatre Group in Stockbridge, Aug. 24 to 31, with Rebecca Brooksher.
What are your choices for don’t miss musical events?
1) At the Mahaiwe from June 21 to 23, Boston Early Music will give a fully-staged performance
of Handel’s Baroque work “Almira.” 2) Aston Magna, also in the Mahaiwe Theatre, on June
27 will perform works by J.S. Bach and Marin Marais with soprano Dominique Labelle. 3)
At Tanglewood, Thursday July 11 at Ozawa Hall at 7.30 p.m., the Orchestra and Chorus of
Emmanuel Music give a concert version of John Harbison’s new opera “The Great Gatsby.”
4) Thursday, July 18 in Ozawa Hall at 8 p.m., British baritone Bryn Terfel will perform in a
recital of German and English art songs. 5) Saturday, July, 27 at 8.30 p.m. in The Shed – go
hear Verdi’s Requiem with the Boston Symphony and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus and
soloists. 6) At Bard College’s “Summerscape,” you can hear the fully-staged rare opera
“Oresteia” by Sergei Taneyev. July 26 to Aug. 4. They’re good.
How do you decide which to choose – theater, music or dance on a given night?
Choosing on any given night, I try to select what I’d like to see or hear ahead of time so
that I’m not stressed out if I miss a performance. Opera or singing will always win out if I
have a conflict, though!
TBRM The Best 2013
51
subjects burst off the page.
The Best
Best Artist
Readers’ Choice
arts&culture
Best Museum
trio prides themselves on their nigh
indefinable style, incorporating
dance rhythms and electronic
experimentation into a jam-band
foundation evolved by jazz-like
improvisation. Focusing on a
delivery that is as spontaneous as
humanly possible, they never plan
their sets – flowing in form from
heavy rock to ethereal ambient to
twitchy house-trance – and they
are a live experience that must be
heard to be believed.
Berkshire Museum
Pittsfield
Huckleberry
Delsignore
Pittsfield
Huckleberry Delsignore’s unique
approach to crocheting has made
her one of the most talked-about
creators of wearable art in the
region. Pushing the structural
and sculptural boundaries of the
common craft into exciting new
frontiers, her work creatively
walks the line between fashion
and performing arts, and her
work has been proudly worn far
and near – from residencies at
Berkshire Museum and Mass.
MoCA to being featured in the
Huffington Post, the Three Letter
Man Gallery in London, BASE in
Miami and an episode of MTV
Extreme Cribs, just to name a few.
From ancient history and natural
science to acclaimed art and
everything in between, the
diverse collections and exhibits
at Berkshire Museum offer a
“window on the world” to curious
knowledge seekers of any age.
Bringing people together for
experiences that spark creativity
and innovative thinking, the
m u s e u m st r i ve s to m a ke
inspirational and educational Best Emerging
connections among art, history Artist
Best music festival
Teruko Kushi WRITERS READ
and naturalGREAT
science. GARDENS
Artist Cafe norfolk
and Good Purpose
chamber
BarringtonStarving
Gallery host author, poet — Page B3
Teruko Kushi’s imaginative and one music festival
of a kind paintings and drawings Norfolk, Conn.
Best Local Dance
Company
Now embarking into their fourth
decade, Olga Dunn continues
to pursue their mission of
striving for excellence in dance
through dedicated professional
level training
Art and mesmerizing
performances. Now a household
name in dance throughout the
Berkshires and beyond, they
have reached thousands through
not only critically-acclaimed
performance but also guest
workshops, public master classes,
lecture demonstrations for area
school children and outreach
programming.
reflect a style that is at once vivid Building on the rich musical
and dark, both playful and filled tradition surrounding Norfolk
with visual depth, and reveals a since the 19th century, the
colorful artist’s perspective that Norfolk Chamber Music Festival
echoes a reverence for the natural continuously draws audiences
world and beyond. Simultaneously from all over the country to scenic
Northwest
Connecticut
to take in
ethereal and
psychedelic,
her • JANUARY
BERKSHIRE
RECORD
25-31,
2013
www.goodpurpose.org
GOOD
Best Scenic Design
PURPOSE
GALLERY
Carl Sprague, “A
Christmas Carol” at The
Colonial Theater
Pittsfield
Sprague’s amazing set design
work on “A Christmas Carol” – on
a low budget, no less – brought
an imaginative and detailed visual
aesthetic to the classic holiday
story put on at the Colonial. From
the grandiosity of the cathedral
and the streets of London to the
dark, intimate corners of the
bedrooms of the poor, Sprague’s
scenic design didn’t just bring the
setting to the audience of 19th
century London – he brought the
audience
intoOUT
the setting.
DINING
This WeeK
Learn from the experts at Berkshire
Great
Botanical’s workshops — Page
B2
Olga Dunn Dance
Company
Great Barrington
compelling aural art produced by
world-class artists. The passion
for some of the best music ever
heard by human ears results in one
of the most pretstigious musical
gatherings in the nation.
Enriching lives of young individuals with
AUTISM and other Learning Differences
through art and creativity
The Art of Autism
William McCarthy
& David Bryce
JULY 19 – SEPT 2
Expanded guide about where to dine
Cont’d on Page 54
JUNE 1 – JULY 15
SHIFTING
PERCEPTIONS
A RETROSPECTIVE
Best
out in theDramatic
area — Pages B5-6
Performance
Actress CALENDAR
Jayne Atkinson
as Edith
Theater
more.
Bolling Galtand
Wilson
in
Page B3
“Edith”
Stockbridge
Section
APRIL 5 – MAY 27
John Lawson
B
Tours Concerts Plays Lectures
Victorian Teas Kids Programs More!
Les Petites Dames de Mode Exhibit
EARTH &
ATMOSPHERE
SEPTEMBER 6 – 20
CIP
SHOWCASE
College Internship
Program
40 MAIN ST. | LEE, MA 01238 | 413.394.5045
Tea & Talk
SuMMer Lecture SerieS
ANNuAL SuMMer PLAy
Editors’ Choice! - Yankee Magazine
Walker Street, Lenox, MA
413-637-3206 GildedAge.org
JUN - AUG 2013
norfolkmusic.org
860.542.3000
Best Poet
Photo contributed
Michael Houlihan
Great Barrington
“The Tree of Life,” 1854, one of the gift
drawings at Hancock Shaker Village.
Known as “The Bard of Barrington,”
personal
ShakerMichael
VillageHoulihan’s
receives grant
C H A M B E R M U S I C F E S T I VA L • YA L E S C H O O L O F M U S I C
poetic style and dedication to
PITTSFIELD — Hancock Shaker Village
medium
has earned
him a
received athe
National
Endowment
for the Hureputation Assistance
as the poet
laureate
manities Preservation
Grant
for
ofmaximum
South County.
Hehave
hasits
pursued
$6,000, the
award, to
25
historic Shaker
gift drawings
assessed
by a to
his mission
– to bring
poetry
paper specialist
at the Williamstown
the community
he lives inArt
– with
Conservation
Center. Theand
paper
medium
commitment
vigor,
hosting
of these images is particularly fragile. The
many poetry nights and groups
museum seeks a conservator’s formal physias well
inspiring young
poets
cal examination
andas
recommendations.
From
across
county
those findings,
thethe
museum
willsince
createbecoming
a plan
a Berkshire
native inAdditional
the 1960s.
for long-term
care of the collection.
outside funds will be needed to implement the
Music Among Friends
Best Band
Continued
on B3
Higher
Organix
Great Barrington
For
Kid’sgenre
saKe
appointed
of “organicOperating within the self-
this dynamic power
Bylivetronica,”
Marcella Medoro-Bush
My 52
maternal conflict
TBRM The Best 2013
Five weeks went by quickly. I knew it
Illustration by James Grady
Egremont resident Cynthia Wade received her second nomination at this year’s Academy Awards for her
short documentary “Mondays at Racine.”
Photos contributed, Illustration by James Grady
Cynthia Wade, pictured above, has received her second Academy Award nomination for her documentary film, “Mondays at
berkshirerecord.net
Racine,” about a Long Island beauty salon that exclusively caters to women going through chemotherapy one Monday a month.
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
53
ARts&Culture
Readers’ Choice
www.BerkshireTheatreGroup.org • (413) 997-4444
111 South Street Pittsfield, MA • 6 East Street Stockbridge, MA
CELEBRATE
Ruling the stage in the title role
of this powerhouse performance,
Atkinson’s Edith (first lady
and second wife of President
Woodrow Wilson) is a character
of multifaceted moods and
emotions – and Atkinson executed
them all seamlessly. At times
charming, elegant and controlled,
and at others flamboyant and
confident, her lively and emotive
performance breathed life into an
excellent work of historic fiction.
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Best Supporting
Performance
In this jolly and quirky twist on
a Shakespearian classic, Epstein
elevates a side character to one of
the most entertaining aspects of
the production in a performance
lauded by The New York Times
and audiences alike. With British
aplomb and the self-serving
logic of an alcoholic, Epstein’s
performance pushes Stefano into
the limelight as a key piece of the
essential puzzle of understanding
“The Tempest” as a character
trapped in deluded visions of who
they are and what’s important
in life.
January 19 – May 12, 2013
Turn your
misconceptions
upside down!
r
o
f
39 South St., Pittsfield, MA 413.443.7171 e
Berkshiremuseum.org s
s
i
o
n
a
l
s
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328 Stockbridge Rd., Great Barrington, MA • 413.528.0143
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Best Musical
“A Chorus Line” at the
Colonial Theatre
Pittsfield
In this flawless take on the classic
Tony Award-winning musical,
Berkshire Theatre Group’s
youthful ensemble cast deliver
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Berkshireweightmangagement.com
an all inclusive
pet resort
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Cont’d on Page 56
Partnering with Berkshire Functional Fitness
grooming
for dogs & cats
boarding for dogs
www.bowmeowregency.com
tollfree: 877-bowmeow
(413) 229-0035
To make arrangements, or for more information
contact Pastor Ken Phesay 518-929-9376
TBRM The Best 2013
Nutritional
Medical
Research Information
Educational
Physical
Activity Resources
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p Start now and avoid the Holiday weight gain.
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54
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Physical Activity
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Explore the fascinating realm of the only
flying mammal through lifelike models,
large-scale video, and hands-on interactives.
Jason Asprey as Ronnie
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Lenox
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Celebrating Our 200th Anniversary
T
e
a
m
i
n
g
Jonathan Epstein as
Stephano the butler
“The Tempest”
Lenox
Best Dramatic
Performance
Actor
In a tragicomedic work that
created controversy over its
portrayal of dark and sometimes
excessive behavior between
family members during a crisis,
Jason Asprey delivers a strong
performance, filled with both
nuance and volatility as “Ronnie.”
In his role in Shakespeare &
Co.’s production, Asprey waxes
both poetic and obscene, filling
his already dynamically-written
character simultaneously with
GRAND OPENING!
hostility and violence crossed with
affection and nobility in one of
the best performances in Asprey’s
celebrated career.
Photo Contributed
World-renowned guitarist Celso Machado joined two other prominent
axemen for an international guitar night in Pittsfield.
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
55
ARts&Culture
Readers’ Choice
pitch-perfect performances in
director Eric Hill’s uncluttered
approach, allowing for the true
synthesis of this memorable
production to show through in its
iconic music and lyrics.
supporting cast. Led by the excellent,
multifaceted performance of Edith
Wilson by Jayne Atkinson, the
work is wonderfully and almost
cinematically choreographed,
with an outstandingly-designed
set that seamlessly took the
audience through a whirlwind of
54 scenes with expert pacing for
a performance that is not to be
forgotten.
Best Dance
Performance
Paul Taylor Dance
Company’s “The
Uncommitted” at the
Mahaiwe Theater
Great Barrington
Best Production
of a Play
“Edith” by the Berkshire
Theatre Group
Stockbridge
In this absorbing, historic work, the
story of Woodrow Wilson’s second
wife Edith Bolling Galt Wilson and
her commanding role in the White
House following her husband’s
extended illness is brought to life by
a well-written script and even better
acting throughout the main and
56
TBRM The Best 2013
Paul Taylor Dance Company’s
appearance at the Mahaiwe this
past summer showcased a rare
mood for the celebrated company
– one of darkness, pessimism,
loneliness, but one that rang
true in its choreography’s vivid
physical expression of these ebon
emotions. The superb synergy
amongst the performing dancers
highlighted Taylor’s knack for
fluidity even in the context of a
dynamic and punchy Schubert
musical backdrop.
Cont’d on Page 58
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
57
ARts&Culture
Editors’ Choice
Best Local
Choreographer
Olga Dunn
Great Barrington
A veteran immersed in the world of
dance since the age of five, Dunn’s
resume is nearly as impressive
as the work put on through her
dance company in Barrington. After
studying dance in Virginia, Canada,
Boston and Washington D.C., she
pursued dance in New York City in
multiple studios, which she credits
with truly crystallizing her personal
ideas about dance. The founder of
the Olga Dunn Dance Company,
she has guided her company to
five Merit Aid awards from the
state, named a choreography state
finalist and was chosen to serve as
a Massachusetts Cultural Council
panelist in Boston, confirming her
reputation as one of the biggest
names in dance in the region.
Best Local Dancer
Yon Burke
Raised under the guidance of
his mother, the legendary Olga
Dunn, Burke has made a name for
himself throughout the county
and beyond, performing with
renowned dance companies as
well as the Metropolitan Opera
in New York City. He guested with
his mother’s dance company at
a gospel festival at the Mahaiwe
Theater in Great Barrington in June
of last year.
Best Local Dancer
Runner UP
Melanie Comeau
After dancing for over a decade
with the Canterella School of Dance
in Pittsfield, Comeau now brings
a smile to the faces of audiences
in the eastern part of the state in
her successful new gig performing
with the Harvard University Dance
Group.
Best Historical Site
Ventfort Hall
Lenox
This imposing Jacobean Revival
mansion, typifying the Gilded
Age in Lenox, is the home of The
Museum of the Gilded Age, and
rightfully so. The picturesque
architecture and grounds are not
only breathtaking, but also serve
to interpret the great changes that
occurred in American life, industry
and society during the Gilded Age.
Best privatelyowned public
gallery
the vault gallery
Great Barrington
Filled to the rafters with the finest
art, The Vault Gallery features
work from some of the world’s
most talented and inspired
artists. Featuring the work of
renowned artists such as famed
photojournalist Ormond Gigli and
the iconic late Leonard Baskin, Vault
is filled with exquisite examples
of humanity’s finest aesthetic
endeavors, from sculptures
and drawings to paintings and
photographs.
Best Public Gallery
Good Purpose Gallery
Lee
The Good Purpose Gallery is aptly
named. Not only are they a vivid
source of artistic vitality on Main
Street in Lee, but they promote
creativity far and wide in an effort
Hear Every Game during
Hear
Every
the
2013
Season
onGame
WSBS!
Hear
Every
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during
Hear
Every
Game
during
Hear
Every
Game
during
during
the 2013
season
the
2013
Season
on
WSBS!
the
on WSBS!
WSBS!
the2013
2013 Season
Season on
on WSBS!
425 Stockbridge Road,
Great Barrington
413-528-0860 (phone)
413-528-2162 (fax)
www.wsbs.com
June 21st & 22nd, 2013
nd 24 Hours!
WSBS
Broadcasting
June
21st & 22Live
, 2013
WSBS Broadcasting Live 24 Hours!
TBRM The Best 2013
Best Country
Antiques
Painted Porch
Sheffield
Painted Porch specializes in French,
English and Canadian country
furniture and accessories. They do
best with items that are unique,
such as store counters from
hardware and bakery stores or golf
lockers from an English country club
that can be used in a mud room or
children’s room. English two-sided
pub signs are also always found
in the store as well. Wandering
through their 1815 colonial, you’ll
find one of the finest and most
extensive collections around.
Every Tuesday
July
&Tuesday
August!
Every
Tuesday
at Tuesday
the Tuesday
Every
Every
Every
Great
Barrington
July
& August!
July
& August!
July
&VFW
August!
July & August!
Summer
Summer
SUMMER
Summer
Summer
Fest!
Fest!
FEST!
Fest!
The story matters.
Fest!
August 24th, 2013
th
June
2121&
22 2013
, 2013
Downtown
Great
August
24
, 2013
2013
June
& 22,
August
24,Barrington!
stBroadcasting
nd 24 Hours!
WSBS WSBS
Broadcasting
Live
Downtown
Great
Barrington!
Downtown
June
21 & 22
, 2013
425 Stockbridge
Road, GB
Live
24
Hours!
Great
Barrington
425
Stockbridge
Road, GB th
425
Stockbridge
Road,
413-528-0860
– 413-528-2162
WSBS
Broadcasting
LiveGB24(f)Hours!
August
24(f), 2013
425
Stockbridge
Road,
GB
413-528-0860
–
413-528-2162
413-528-0860 – 413-528-2162 (f)
st
nd
www.wsbs.com
www.wsbs.com
58
to further their goal of encouraging
and developing the talents of
young adults on the Autism
Spectrum and with differentlyabled learning capabilities.
Through exhibits, events and
community gatherings, they make
the local art world a little brighter,
all while facilitating creative and
expressive opportunities for the
differently-abled, raising the bar
for art and equality throughout
the greater Berkshire community.
With frequent gallery and exhibit
changes, Good Purpose Gallery is a
great lens into the creative abilities
present in all of us.
425 Stockbridge Road, GB
413-528-0860 – 413-528-2162 (f)
Subscribe to The Berkshire Record • 413-528-5380
413-528-0860
– 413-528-2162
Downtown
Great(f)Barrington!
www.wsbs.com
www.wsbs.com
August 24th, 2013
berkshirerecord.net
Downtown
Great Barrington!
425 Stockbridge Road, GB
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
59

SHOP SHEFFIELD . SHOP LOCAL
SHEFFIELD BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
THE BERKSHIRE RECORD’S 2014 READERS SURVEY
COMMUNITY
q.Best Town Dept
q.Best County Dept
q.Best Managed Town
q.Best Ski Shop
q.Best Ice Cream Store
q.Best Doorman
q.Best Adventure Park
q.Best Snowboard Shop
q.Best Liquor Store
q.Best Bathroom
q.Best Yoga
q.Best Automotive Dealer
q.Best New York Style Deli
q.Best Frozen Drinks
q.Best Luxury Auto Dealer
q.Best Family Dining
q.Best Bartender
q.Best Used Car Dealer
q.Best Breakfast Spot
q.Best Local Hangout
q.Best _____________________
q.Best Political Scare
q.Best Elected Official
q.Best Political Contest
q.Best Dressed Selectman
q.Best Neighborhood
q.Best Anticipated Event
q.Best Local Nonprofit
q.Best Garden
q.Best Park
q.Best Dog Park
q.Best Advocates
q.Best Local Hero
q.Best AM Personality
q.Best FM Personality
q.Best Radio Station
q.Best Hotel
q.Best Spa
q.Best Barber
q.Best Pilates Studio
q.Best Swimming Pool
q.Best Trainers
q.Best Golf Course
q.Best ______________________ q.Best Caterer
q.Best Bank
q.Best Credit Union
q.Best Shopping Mall
DINING
q.Best Market
q.Best Sushi
q.Best Coffee Shop
q.Best Department Store
q.Best Bakery
q.Best Pizza & Pasta
q.Best Women’s Clothing Store
q.Best Chef
q.Best Buffet
q.Best Men’s Clothing Store
q.Best Restaurant
q.Best Early Bird Restaurant
q.Best New Restaurant
q.Best Jewelry
q.Best Chocolate
q.Best New Home Store
q.Best Burger
q.Best Beer
q.Best Wedding Dresses
q.Best Cupcakes
q.Best______________________
q.Best Toy Store
q.Best Slice Of Pizza
q.Best Sneaker Store
q.Best Service
q.Best Restaurant/Lounge
q.Best Women’s Shoe Store
q.Best Salads
q.Best Band
q.Best Pharmacy
q.Best Fast Food
q.Best Karaoke Bar
q.Best Consignment Shop
q.Best Burritos
q.Best Little Bar
q.Best Art Blog
q.Best Furniture
q.Best Smoothies
q.Best Sports Bar
q.Best Art Supply Store
q.Best Bike Shop
q.Best Appetizers
q.Best Local Bar
q.Best Interactive Store
Address:___________________________________________________________________
City_______________________________________________________________________
TBRM The Best 2013
No purchase necessary. Participants must be 18 years of age or older and a legal resident of the United States. Dining Certificate(s) provided by
a local restaurant. Winners will be drawn at random from all entries received by 02/28/14. To enter, contestants must submit an official entry by
March 1, 2014 with all information filled in. Up to two (2) entries per person will be accepted. A random drawing will be held on March 2, 2014 and
winner will be notified via telephone provided. Dining Certificate prize must be claimed within 1 day of notification. Failure to claim the prize will
result in an alternate winner being selected. Once the prize has been claimed, the winner will be provided with a Dining Certificate to be used at a
local restaurant. The Dining Certificate is non-transferable or redeemable for cash.
SUBMITTING COMPLETED SURVEY
1. Mail: P.O. Box 868, Gt. Barrington, MA 01230 2. Drop Off: 21 Elm St., Gt. Barrington, MA 01230
3. E-Mail: scan & send to best@berkshirerecord.net 4. Fax: Fax to 413-528-9449
UKULELES
Made Here!
292 South Main Street
Sheffield, MA 01257
q.Best______________________
ARTS & CULTURE
q.Best Choreographer
Name:_____________________________________________________________________
www.magicfluke.com
sales@magicfluke.com
800-459-5558 413-229-8536
q.Best Live Music
q.Best Guacamole
Enter to win a dining certificate
gic Fluke
Ma
q.Best Pool
q.Best Brunch
Phone.#____________________________________________________________________
60
q.Best Ladies Night
q.Best Recycled Clothing Store
q.Best Bowling Alley
q.Best Car Wash
q.Best Thursday Night Hangout
q.Best Restaurant With A View
NIGHTLIFE
The Magic Fluke Company, LLC
qBest Irish Pub
q.Best Seafood
State______________________________________________________________________
q.Best Music School
q.Best Club
q.Best Dog Food & Accessories
q.Best Tennis Courts
q.Best Internet Services
q.Best Nightlife Lie
.
Co
q.Best Up & Coming Neighborhood
SHOPPING
The
Share your BEST with us!
q.Best Ski Resort
Douglas W. Blume Electrical
q.Best Local Dancer
Fully Licensed and Insured
(413)229-2784
PO Box 142
Sheffield, MA 01257
dwb123@roadrunner.com
douglasblumeelectrical.com
q.Best Local Dance Company
q.Best Dance Performance
q.Best Artist
q.Best Private Gallery
P.O. Box 688, Rte. 7, Sheffield, MA 01257
413-229-2077
q.Best Museum
q.Best Cover Band
TOURS and TASTINGS
every SAT. Noon till 4pm
q.Best Band
65 SILVER ST., SHEFFIELD,MA
413-229-2348 bigelmbeer.com
q.Best Poet
jewelry design & fabrication
appraisers & brokers
buyers of gold, platinum,& bulk silver
25 Maple Ave., Sheffield, MA
413-229-0050
www.sachsreisman.com
q.Best Playwright
q.Best Dramatic Performance
q.Best Sound Design
GULOTTA BROTHERS, INC.
147 Main Street
SHEFFIELD, MA 01257
(413) 229-2304
q.Best New Theatre Work
q.Best Family Entertainment
q.Best ______________________

berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
61
The Best
HomE & Design
Settling Down
S
o here you are, in Home and Design. Come on in and
take a load off! Whether you’re looking for a place to
settle down or just a sweet weekend spot to park your
jalopy for some backseat bingo, the Berkshires has the
best and most varied landscapes you can find this side
of El Camino Real.
If you’re a town cat, then maybe Great Barrington Heights is
your bag— with its grand old Victorians with sweeping porches
where you can cozy up on your swing and gaze at the steeples
downtown ‘til you’re cross-eyed, or just pad around
your retro kitchen playing Betty Crocker (I’ve got
some great outfits for that!) But if the city’s a
bee in your bonnet, then don’t have a cow!
Unless, of course, you want one. In which
case, you’re in luck. Mosey on down to
Sheffield or Ashley Falls, with old farms
and acres of green pasture rolling out to
the Housatonic. Or maybe you want
to check out the gnarly back roads
of New Marlboro and Sandisfield
(don’t goose it on these roads, or
you’ll end up in the drink), or the
hep old community of Monterey.
And what about the bad (and by
that I mean good) peaks of Mount
Washington, or the far out hills of
Egremont and Alford? These pads
have got views for miles. If culture’s
your beat, then shake a tail feather and
goose it on up to a little garden bungalow in
Lenox town. Personally, I like to step out of my white colonial
and stroll ‘round Stockbridge, decked out to the nines, like I’m
on my way to model for Mr. Rockwell himself.
Whatever floats your boat. I promise to show you the spot
that will put you over the moon and make you want to haul ass
back to the Berkshires every free second you’ve got.
62
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
highlights
Personal Best
Dabney McAvoy
After 25 years of living in various cities across the U.S. and designing for multiple lifestyle
brands (Tommy Hilfiger, Espirit, Eddie Bauer, Target just to name a few), Dabney McAvoy decided
to put down roots in an area she had always loved, the Berkshires, and start her own business.
In 2009, she opened Dabney McAvoy Home in Great Barrington, where she offers a mix of gift
and home accessories from vintage to new, as well as her expert design services for any home.
Best Landscape Architect
On top of his time-tested know-how and
experience, what really sets Craig Okerstrom-Lang apart from the rest of the pack
is his strong affinity with the people and
aesthetics landscapes of the Berkshires.
From his familiarity with local permitting
and approvals processes to knowledge
of native plants and unique ornamental design, there’s no other
master planner in the county
who can handle residential
and commercial projects of
all sizes and complexities like
Okerstrom-Lang.
What are your favorite parts of the Berkshires?
There’s not really just one thing. It’s the whole experience of the Berkshires...the natural
beauty, the local food and restaurant scene, the culture...all mixed together with talented
and interesting people.
Why did you decide to open a gift and home furnishings shop in the Berkshires?
I used to come here in the ‘80s, when I lived in NYC, and I loved it! Even after living all over
the U.S., working as a designer for different lifestyle brands, I never forgot how special this
place is.
Is there a Berkshires style and if so what is it?
I don’t think there’s a style so much as an attitude, and this spills over into
people’s homes. There’s a casual, relaxed, welcoming feel to many homes
– nothing formal or uptight. This is a very social place, with space for
entertaining, family and friends.
Name some of your favorite places to find design objects in the Berkshires.
I love things with a bit of history, a patina, so it’s always great to look in the
antique and vintage shops up and down Route 7. I also love a good yard sale
or flea market, as well as estate sales and auctions, which you can find advertised
in the local newspapers.
Who are some of your favorite local designers?
There are many talented designers in the Berkshires, but I love that we have someone like
Peter Fasano, and his wife, Elizabeth Hamilton, here. They design gorgeous fabrics and wall
coverings that are hand screen-printed right here in the Berkshires. Also, many local shops,
also provide design services and this makes it easy for homeowners looking for a little help.
Best Window Treatment
What makes a house a home has a lot to do
with the treatment of its interior décor. It
has to have the right vibe, be comfortable,
maybe chic, but most of all, the style has to
conform to your essence – after all, it’s your
home. That’s why The Drapery Workroom
offers affordable local craftsmanship while
tailoring their expertise to YOUR taste. With
custom draperies fabricated in-house on
their tables and machines, they make it
easy to take one more step toward making
your house your home.
berkshirerecord.net
What are some things you recommend to spruce up a place?
1) Color is one of the greatest tools, especially when on a budget. And paint is such an easy
way to fix, whether it’s monochromatic or colorful. Not just for walls, but on furniture,
mirrors, anything. Also, add color or pattern with pillows, rugs, lampshades. 2) Bring in
texture with natural fibers like slubby linens, wicker or sisal. 3) Artwork or photographs, and
they don’t have to be expensive. 4) Budding branches or overflowing bouquets of one type
of flower, especially when put in large hurricanes or vases. The scale changes everything!
Where can young couples on a budget go to decorate their homes?
If there’s room in the budget for a sofa, try to invest in a good one that will last. Many
furniture and home furnishings shops in the Berkshires have yearly sales on furniture and
the savings are substantial. Plus, you can sit on the sofas and test them out. Or look for
furniture at the estate sales or thrift stores and have them slip-covered or drape them in
fabric or a sheepskin, especially in the winter! The local shops carry everything from furniture
to bedding and bath, with prices from low to high – worth checking out along with yard
sales and flea markets.
TBRM The Best 2013
63
The Best
Clients’ Choice
Home & Design
Best luxury real
estate broker
Chapin fish of Wm.
Brockman Real Estate
Great Barrington
For more than 35 years, wm.
Brockman Real Estate has served
as a real estate powerhouse
i n B e r ks h i re
County, with
a specialty
in
luxury
properties and
estates. In fact,
C h ap i n F i s h ,
broker and
partner of wm.
Chapin Fish.
Brockman Real
Estate ranks among the very
highest, if not the top of the pack,
in the county every year since
2005 for home sales and listings.
Celebrities, executives and other
A-listers have counted on him to
help them find, buy and sell luxury
homes throughout the Berkshires,
knowing complete discretion and
5-star service is always assured .
If you’re selling or in the market
for a luxury home or estate, then
Chapin Fish of wm. Brockman
Real Estate is your Luxury Home
Broker in the Berkshires. www.
berkshiresforsale.com Phone:
413-528-4859
Best Internet
Marketing
Berkshire Property
Agents
Great Barrington
Berkshire Property Agents is a local
industry leader in creating Internet
Marketing campaigns online via
Internet search and successful
media buys. The team at Berkshire
Property Agents works directly
with their clients to customize
an Internet Campaign tailored
to the clients’ short and longterm needs. They can generate
prospects to a generic or a specific
target audience with a very short
turnaround. Berkshire Property
Agents can help successfully
market your home, land or any real
estate property on the internet
today by giving their clients the
complete internet marketing
service they need to list and sell
their property.
Phone: (413) 528-6800
Best Trusted Real
Estate Company
Wheeler & Taylor
Real Estate
Great Barrington & Stockbridge
A Berkshire County institution
since 1871, Wheeler & Taylor is an
expert at redefining the local real
estate industry
standard. For
over 140 years,
they have been
helping people
find their ideal
property(s),
homes, farms,
lands and
Joe Carini.
businesses,
throughout Berkshire County.
With a steadfast commitment to
excellence and solid knowledge
of the local market, the real
estate professionals at Wheeler
and Taylor are well known for
providing over-the-top service to
all their clients. Whether you’re
thinking about buying or selling
a property in the Berkshires, you
need to look no further than the
Berkshires most trusted the real
estate company, Wheeler and
Taylor, the Berkshires Best Trusted
Real Estate company – since 1871.
Phone: (413) 528-1006
Best Full Service
Real Estate
Company
Barnbrook Realty
Great Barrington
Mary White and Maureen White
and their company Barnbrook
Realty have been the driving
force behind South County Real
Estate over the
last 25 years.
Since 1984,
the company
has diligently
serviced clients
in all aspects of
residential and
commercial real
Mary White.
estate. If you’re
looking for a company that can help
you from everything in Berkshire
County real estate from finding,
buying, selling property as well as
relocation services, than Barnbrook
Realty is your complete, full service
real estate company solution.
No other company in Berkshire
County can match their experience,
64
TBRM The Best 2013
connections and hardworking
staff and overall support network.
Phone: (413) 528-4423
best furniture store
simmons lifestyle
furniture
Pittsfield
Since 1879, Simmons’ formula
hasn’t changed: good quality,
reasonable prices and great
selection. With knowledgeable
staff available to assist, Simmons
offers more than a century
of family-owned experience
featuring products from around
the world, as well as local, organic
and naturally made furniture for
a unique shopping experience
that mixes luxury, sustainability
and pricing to suit every budget.
Phone: (413) 499-0170
best fuel company
kIMBALL fUELs
Great Barrington
You won’t get left out in the
cold next winter with Kimball
Fuels, A leader in home heating
oil, diesel fuel, propane and
heating services. Kimball Fuels
has been warming homes and
businesses for many years. Built
on the strong tradition of providing
excellent products and first rate
customer service, it is no wonder
that Kimball Fuels is a leader in
providing Berkshire County full
and part-time residents with
heating fuels. They also have a 24hour service department that can
repair, maintain and install a full
range of boilers, tanks and other
home heating related products.
Phone: (413) 528-1410
If you’re looking for the ideal
historic home in the tri-state area,
Elyse Harney Real Estate should
be your first and only stop. Wellknown for their understanding
and unparalleled appreciation
of the area’s most desirable
historic homes, the real estate
professionals at Elyse Harney Real
Estate can help even the most
discerning buyers find that perfect
historic home. Stop by and see
why they often exceed customer
expectations and successfully
maintain their reputation as the
best at finding, buying and selling
historic homes throughout the
tri-state region.
Phone: 860-435-2200
best home insurance
frank consolati
insurance, inc.
Lee
Serving Berkshire County families
since 1942, Frank Consolati
Insurance is a family-owned
independent insurance company
with a small, efficient staff that
focus on providing personalized
service to each individual client,
allowing customers to work
with the same experienced
agent throughout the process
from start to finish. They offer
homeowners insurance, mobile
BEST REAL ESTATE
BROKER
Lance Vermeulen
Real Estate
Great Barrington
Born and raised in Berkshire
County, Lance Vermeulen came to
the real estate business naturally.
His love of the
c o m m u n i t y,
extensive
knowledge of
thebusiness,and
commitment to
helping clients
achieve their
g o a l s m a ke
Lance Vermeulen. him one of the
top brokers in the Berkshires.
Setting a fine example not only
to his own staff but to the real
estate community as a whole, his
dedication to exemplary personal
service and the core values of
honesty and integrity have set him
apart and earned him the title of
Best Real Estate Broker.
Phone: (413) 528-6011
Thinking about selling?
We are too, and
NOW IS THE TIME.
Berkshire County sales grew substantially in 2012.
Let us sell your home in 2013.
lancerealestate.com
Great Barrington
413-528-6011
Lenox
413-637-0006
South Egremont
413-528-1128
Cont’d on Page 66
Real Estate in the Berkshires
VIEW ALL OUR BERKSHIRE PROPERTIES AT WWW.ISGOODREALTY.COM
best landscaping
architecture
80 MAPLE AVE., SUITE 7 • GREAT BARRINGTON, MA 01230
413-528-2040 or email isgoodgb@gmail.com
okerstrom lang
Great Barrington
Okerstrom Lang’s philosophy
of landscape architecture and
design is rooted in the successful
achievement of three principles:
a coordinated team approach,
harmony of design and an
integrated construction process.
Working diligently with clients
from initial consultation and
contracting to the completion
of designing and building, they
employ their skilled craftsmen
and a timely construction schedule
to focus on details and clear
communication as keys to their
clients’ satisfaction.
Phone: (413) 528-6523
Proudly Serving
The Berkshires
Since 1948
BEST HISTORIC
HOME SPECIALISTS
Elyse Harney Real Estate
Salisbury, Conn.
berkshirerecord.net
home insurance, renters insurance
and floor insurance, and bring
their 71 years of experience to
meeting the home insurance
needs of Berkshire families.
Phone: (413) 243-0105
berkshirerecord.net
With QR reader on
your smart phone,
scan here to go to
our website to see
all our listings.
Like us on
TBRM The Best 2013
65
Home & design
Clients’ Choice
Best service
in real estate
wm. brockman
real estate
Great Barrington
The first step in finding your dream
home in the Berkshires, or selling
your property, is finding the right
real estate company. One that gives
unparalleled and unmatched service
to their clients is essential. Here in
the Berkshires, that company is wm.
Brockman Real Estate. Founded
more than 35 years ago by Bill
Brockman and Jack Jefferson, the
firm has diligently practiced Henry
David Thoreau’s philosophy of Be
true to your work, and your word,
and your friend. And that rings
true today. Under the leadership
of Chapin Fish, Broker-Partner,
wm. Brockman Real Estate is just
as committed today to provide the
finest, 5-star personalized service in
the Berkshires. If you’re looking for
a cutting-edge, authentic real estate
firm with market expertise and
decades of success and experience
with a complete and comprehensive
solutions-based approach to your
next real estate transaction, call
wm. Brockman Real Estate today.
www.berkshiresforsale.com
Phone: 413-528-4859
Best Architect
Pamela Sandler, AIA
Stockbridge
Pamela Sandler has been
working with clients to create
living and working spaces in the
Berkshires for a quarter century.
Extremely well-versed in code
compliance and experienced in
the local permitting process, she is
registered in Massachusetts as well
as New York and Connecticut, and
has worked on every conceivable
project type, from residences of all
shapes and sizes to lodging, spa,
worship and well-being spaces. An
early adopter in the use of green
building materials and techniques,
her portfolio includes awardwinning historic preservation and
residential work that has been
published in Boston Magazine.
Phone: (413) 298-4227
Cont’d on Page 70
B-Safe Storage
A Complete Self-Storage Facility
Proud To Be
Among The Best!
(413) 243-6334
50 Run Way
and 1920 Cape St., Lee, MA
www.b-safestorage.com
Heated Warehouse for Automobile Storage
from a Bicycle to a Class A Motorhome, and everything in between.
66
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
67
BERKSHIRE
PROPERTY
AGENTS.COM
MAXIMUM INTERNET
EXPOSURE
PROVEN SALES
STRATEGY
TOP SELLING AGENCY
IN SOUTH COUNTY*
PROVEN MARKET
STRATEGY
PERFORMANCE
SOCIAL MEDIA SAVVY
TACTICAL
MARKET PLANNING
TRUSTED ADVISORS
413 528 6800
REAL ESTATE SALES
AND MARKETING
TIM LOVETT
JENNIFER HARVEY
DEBORAH LEVINSON
DAN BELLOW
LAURA FETHEROLF
CHRISTIAN DECKERT
TOM LYNCH
SHEA POTOSKI
ANNE WALLACH
BILL O'LEARY
ROSE BLODGETT
12 RAILROAD ST
GREAT BARRINGTON MA
AND NOW:
SUMPTUOUS SEASONAL RENTALS!
68
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
* BASED ON BERKSHIRE BOARD OF REALTORS FIGURES69
TBRM The Best 2013
THE DRAPERY
WORKROOM
Your taste, our expertise.
Affordable local craftsmanship.
custom and
semi-custom:
window treatments
table linens
furniture
bedding
pillows
and more
Visit our showroom at
85 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA
Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm
(413) 528-5783
mail@drapery-workroom.com
Home & design
Clients’ Choice
Best Top Producer
Tim Lovett, Berkshire
Property Agents
Great Barrington
Since moving to the Berkshires,
Tim Lovett has been a major part
of Berkshire County’s real estate
growth. As one
of the owners
and a broker
at Berkshire
Property
Agents, Lovett
is a consistent
top producer
in his company.
Tim Lovett.
I n fa c t , h i s
individual annual sales place him
consistently in Berkshire County’s
top 1% of Realtors. Whether clients
are looking for a comfortable
family home or a luxury estate,
Lovett’s keen knowledge of the
local real estate market combined
with his leading edge technology
give him the ultimate tools
assuring that his clients will have
the best services when it comes
to buying or selling their home.
Phone: (413) 528-6800
Best Up-And-Comers
Stability for your future.
Serving the Berkshires and beyond for 30 years.
The Sherman Investment Group
Berkshire Common
2 South Street, Suite 200 • Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 236-8566 • (800) 977-2015
www.shermaninvestmentgroup.com
© 2013 RBC Wealth Management, a division of
RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.
70
TBRM The Best 2013
Tim Donnelly
& Barbara Schulman
Gt. Barrington & Stockbridge
Being trend setting in Real
Estate takes experience. Barbara
Schulman, Broker-Associate, and
Tim Donnelly,
Re a l t o rAssociate, of
Wheeler &
Taylor are two
real estate
professionals
who are creating
an impressive
Tim Donnelly. n a m e
for
themselves in
the Berkshire
County real
estate scene.
Knowledgeable
in almost
e v e r y fa c e t
in Berkshire
County real
Barbara Schulman. estate, Donnelly
and Schulman are experts in helping
their clients buy and sell residential,
country estates, land, commercial &
investment properties. By working
with their clients’ specific needs,
Donnelly and Schulman’s expertise
in marketing and customer service
skills have repeatedly placed them
above the rest. If you’re looking
for an agent who is helping set
the new standard of excellence
in Berkshire County real estate,
S E E T H E B E AU T Y
FEEL THE TRANQUILITY
than call either Tim Donnelly
or Barbara Schulman today.
Phone: (413) 528-1006 Ext. 353 or
(413) 298-3786 Ext. 229
BEST IN
CLIENT SERVICES
Elyse Harney
Real Estate
Salisbury, Conn.
EXPERIENCE THE BES T OF COUNTRY LIVING
Elyse Harney Real Estate is one of the
most respected names in the real
estate industry. For over 30 years,
their signs have
graced some of
the best homes
in the area. As
well as providing
excellent care in
finding or selling
properties, Elyse
Harney Real
Elyse Harney. Estate can also
handle relocations, land sales and
commercial properties. With five
offices and a wide selection of
listings throughout the tri-county
area, they can help you find the
perfect home that suits your needs
and budget.
Phone: (860) 435-2200
Best Interior Design
Carole King/Details
Interior Design, Inc.
South Egremont
No matter what you want for
your home décor, Details Interior
Design can complete the picture
for your home interior needs.
Carole King understands it’s the
details that complete your home,
and that’s what she has an eye for
- details. With a flair for everything
from bold contemporary moods,
quaint cottage charm or elegant
style, Details brings your interior to
life and helps complete the picture
of your home décor.
Phone: (413) 528-8550
Anne Day
Best General
Law Firm
Gogel & Gogel
South Egremont
The motto at Gogel & Gogel is
simple, but effective: Small town
attention with big city results.
Attorney Kenneth Gogel’s résumé
is a testament to those results,
from several high-profile national
class action victories across
the country to the successful
reorganization of numerous small
businesses after bankruptcy.
With expertise in business and
commercial law, employment
law, arts and entertainment
law, estate matters and both
residential and commercial real
estate transactions, Gogel & Gogel
Cont’d on Page 72
berkshirerecord.net
Connecticut
•
New York
•
Massachusetts
A Tradition of Trust
www.HarneyRE.com
Main Office
Millerton, NY
Falls Village, CT
berkshirerecord.net
•
Salisbury, CT
518-789-8800
•
•
860-824-0027
•
860-435-2200
Norfolk, CT
•
860-542-5500
Riverton, CT
•
860-738-1200
TBRM The Best 2013
71
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TBRM The Best 2013
72 71
MAIN STREET • LEE, MA 01238
Home & design
Clients’ Choice
is the place to go for any problem,
big or small.
Phone: (413) 528-2698
best window
treatment
the drapery workroom
Great Barrington
With unmatched taste and
expertise, The Drapery
Workroom offers draperies
fabricated in-house on their very
own tables and machines for
one-of-a-kind custom window
décor for any setting or budget.
To see that their dutifully crafted
product is properly placed, they
install all their own products
with their trained installation
team – testament to the skills,
experience and understanding
that are critical to successfully
o f fe r i n g a f fo r d a b l e l o c a l
craftsmanship.
Phone: (413) 528-5783
Best Rental Services
Taylor Rental
Great Barrington
They’ve got a phrase over at Taylor
Rental: Rent the equipment, keep
the advice. Not only do these guys
have just about any equipment
you could possibly want to
rent - from contracting and
contruction vehicles to wedding
and party equipment to moving
and shipping necessities - they
also have the knowhow to hook
you up with just what you’re
looking for, and make sure you
know how to use it properly for
whatever job or event you need
it for.
Phone: (413) 243-1777
Best Plumbing
LePrevost
Lee
Over 5,000 satisfied customers
are reason enough to flush your
worries down the drain when
you’ve got the professional at
LePrevost handling your plumbing
needs. For the past 16 years,
they’ve been offering nationallyrecognized oustanding service
to seasonal and year-round
Berkshire residents. They’re
the ones to turn to, whether
it ’s a small problem like a
clogged drain or big project
like bathroom remodeling or
plumbing installation. They’re
available 24 hours a day for
emergency service, so you’re
never in hot water if you’ve got
LePrevost in your corner.
Phone: (413) 243-1777
Best landscape
design
passionflower
Southfield
Namednotfortheflower,butforthe
love of the work, Passionflower’s
donation gardens and wildflowers
in Southfield, as well as her work in
private gardens and lush planters
around the Southern Berkshire
region and Westchester County,
N.Y., are a vivid testament to
their careful and quality work.
Passionflower does everything
from consultations to sketches,
scale drawings, contracting,
design/build, maintenance and
interior floral design.
Phone: (413) 229-2818
best propane
carlson propane
Sheffield
The family-owned and operated
Carlson Propane uses the most
durable, cost-effective and
efficient products available.
They provide both a commitment
to service and a well trained
staff that can meet all needs, no
matter how large or small. As a
result, they are able to provide
clean, efficient propane to fit
everyone’s needs.
Phone: (413) 229-3328
• Consultations
• Garden design
• Property and hardscape design
• Maintenance
• Hand drawings - sketches to large plans to scale
Best Pools
Leisure Pools
Great Barrington
Serving the tri-state area with
q u a l i t y wo r k m a n s h i p a n d
innovative design, Leisure Pools
is the place to go whether you’re
just starting to contemplate a pool
or you’re ready to construct and
install. Beautifully constructed
pools all over Berkshire, Columbia
and Litchfield counties are a
testament to the pride that Leisure
Pools puts into each and every
pool they painstakingly design.
Phone: (413) 528-1765
best Electrical
appliances
Henry’s Electric
Lee
Henry’s sets itself apart from the
competition as the appliance
specialist of Berkshire County by
means of its sheer breadth of
knowledge and selection for any
and all appliance needs. Family
owned and operated since 1946,
they’re authorized dealers of over
40 brands, which allows them to
offer something for every budget.
They also service what they sell,
and have a full service department
that consists of factory-trained
technicians who are able to
repair and maintain all the quality
appliances they sell for many years.
Phone: (413) 243-0690
berkshirerecord.net
“Since 1986.
Small Town Attention, Big City Results.”
COMMERCIAL &
BUSINESS LAW
EMPLOYMENT LAW
LITIGATION
COMMERCIAL &
RESIDENTIAL
REAL ESTATE
THE WESTERN MA
LAW FIRM
FOR BUSINESS
GOGEL-GOGEL.COM
Announcing Our New Office Location
in the Berkshires
Gogel & Gogel, Kenneth J. Gogel, Esq.
40 Main Street
South Egremont, MA 01258
413-528-2698
berkshirerecord.net
2 Mattoon Street
Springfield, MA 01106
413-788-5683
TBRM The Best 2013
73
JOSEPH L. CARINI, PRESIDENT
DALE ABRAMS
ROSE BAUMANN
TIM DONNELLY
JONATHAN B. HANKIN
DORIAN HELD
RICHARD S. JACKSON,JR.
MELISSA JACOBS
CLAUDIA LASLIE
BARBARA SCHULMAN
Wheeler & Taylor
R E A L T Y C O M P A N Y, I N C.
www.wheelerandtaylor.com
ON TOP OF THE BERKSHIRES
SINCE 1871
MAIN OFFICE
333 MAIN STREET
GREAT BARRINGTON, MASS 01230-1813
TELEPHONE (413) 528-1006 FAX (413) 528-1008
74
TBRM The Best 2013
STOCKBRIDGE OFFICE
44 MAIN STREET PO BOX 427
STOCKBRIDGE, MASS, 01262-0427
TELEPHONE (413) 298-3786 FAX (413) 298-3083
berkshirerecord.net
berkshirerecord.net
TBRM The Best 2013
75
76
TBRM The Best 2013
berkshirerecord.net