TBV April 2015 for w..
Transcription
TBV April 2015 for w..
april • vOL. 3 nO. 4 day+night Plan Your Month Pages 17-19 The berkshires’ alternative newspaper JTF: Shock and Awe at local theater groups Page 6 • METRO: Dalton Circus controversy page 8 • comedy: Ralphie may Page 21 BERKSHIRE THEBERKSHIREView.COM After decades of performing with legends, the drum master returns to the Berkshires 4/16 • 7:30PM 4/18 • 8PM at The Colonial Theatre at The Garage synergy: the interaction of elements American Idol that when combined produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements. Proudly sponsored by BoDeans Featuring legendary drummer and KATHERINE Stockbridge, MA native KENNY ARONOFF WINSTON CONTESTANT AND BERKSHIRE NATIVE 4/25 • 8PM 39 South St., Pittsfield, MA 413.443.7171 Berkshiremuseum.org 5/15 • 7PM at The Colonial Theatre at The Colonial Theatre Ifrealtold You’re Looking to We’re told the best We’re estate the best agents real are estate easyagents to recognize. are easy to recognize. We’re told real estate agents are easy recognize. At least, that’s what clientsthe At tellleast, usbest after that’s working what clients with Wheeler tell us after & Taylor working Real with Estate Wheeler agents. & to Taylor Real Estate agents. Change Your View, It must be the way they listen It must to clients’ be theneeds. way they Maybe listenit’stothe clients’ agents needs. abilityMaybe to understand it’s the agents the ability to understand the community, since theythat’s livecommunity, here recommend since the livebest heremarketing and with recommend strategy the for properties. marketing strategy for properties. At least, whatand clients tell they us after working Wheeler &best Taylor Real Estate agents. Maybe it’s because they buyers it’sthe because perfect house findatneeds. buyers the best the price. perfect Ofhouse course, at they’ve theability bestbeen price. 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Folk Music Icons “Last Comic Standing” Comedian RALPHIE MAY 2 The Berkshire View | April 2015 THE KINGSTON TRIO “500 Miles,” “Tom Dooley” Combining savings on both money and time, Synergy Checking is Adams Community Bank’s hallmark checking account. Discover the total effect and the additional advantages to this account. Call us today! Additional benefits include: n No minimum balance required n $25.00 minimum to open account n No per-check charge n Free Online Banking and Bill Pay 413-743-0001 | adamscommunity.com Synergy Checking — An effective solution to your checking Stockbridge 44 Main Street needs with no maintenance fees. 413-298-3786 Stockbridge Real Estate Real Estate wheelerandtaylor.com wheelerandtaylor.com Stockbridge Great Barrington Real Estate “Where Have All The Flowers Gone” www.BerkshireTheatreGroup.org (413) 997-4444 Great Barrington Great Barrington 333 Main Street 413-528-1006 333 Main Street 413-528-1006 Dale Abrams Rose Bauman The Colonial Theatre 111 South Street Pittsfield, MA 01201 44 Main Street 413-298-3786 333 Main Street 413-528-1006 Dale Abrams Tim Donnelly Tim Donnelly Douglas Goudey Rose Bauman Jonathan Freddy Friedman Freddy Friedman B. Hankin Chuck Chuck Gillett Dorian HeldGillett 44 Main Street 413-298-3786 Melissa Jacobs Barbara Schulman Barbara Schulman B. Hankin David Walker-Price Marji Keefner-West David Walker-Price MarjiJonathan Keefner-West Dorian Claudia Laslie Claudia LaslieHeld wheelerandtaylor.com Douglas Goudey Melissa Jacobs Dale Abrams Rose Bauman Tim Donnelly Freddy Friedman Chuck Gillett Douglas Goudey Jonathan B. Hankin Dorian Held Melissa Jacobs Marji Keefner-West Claudia Laslie Barbara Schulman David Walker-Price The Berkshire View | April 2015 DIF 3 When it comes to finding the right property one real estate agency always comes through. `contents ` BERKSHIRE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Donna Prisendorf PUBLISHER Anthony Prisendorf ASSISTANT PUBLISHER Alexis Prisendorf EDITORIAL Tom Casey, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Kameron Spaulding, METRO EDITOR Shea Garner, FILM EDITOR Alexis Prisendorf, WEBSITE EDITOR Terry Cowgill, Julie Ruth, Mike Walsh, Joseph Rea, Sandy Johnston Barnbrook Right agency. Right time. Right now. COPY EDITORS: Alexis Prisendorf, Anthony Prisendorf 271 Main St., Great Barrington (413) 528-4423 PRODUCTION James Grady, PRODUCTION MANAGER Jessica Jones Kenny Aronoff PAGE 11 ADVERTISING Alexis Prisendorf, SALES DIRECTOR Nancy Frisbie, SENIOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE Nick Ricciarini, Account Representative After decades of performing with legends, the drum master returns to the Berkshires. By Tom Casey Just The Facts O N L Y Y O U C A N P R E V E N T W I L D F I R E S . PAGE 6 Metro Shock and awe for theater group One of the Berkshires shining cultural beacons has been hit with a series of major changes this month.. By Rick Forbes 9 out of 10 wildfires are caused by humans. 9 out of 10 wildfires can be prevented. Turbulence PAGE 9 All this fight over that little land? A longtime feud over a very small piece of land in downtown Lenox has come to end after a deal is reached and one neighbors sells the property they had been fighting over anyway. By Julie Ruth 4 The Berkshire View | April 2015 very question with a new proposal that is being floated in town. By Shea Garner Letters Police Blotter Day + Night Comedy 5 7 17 21 Music 23 T-Bone Daddy S M O K E Y B E A R . C O M PAGE 8 If there are no animals is it still a circus? Leaders in Dalton are trying to answer that Ralphie May Theater Berkshire Theater Group 21 23 24 Film 25 First Taste Weekend Warrior Eat Enjoy the View Help Wanted Real Estate 26 27 28 30 31 31 ‘Going Clear’ DESIGN Alexis Prisendorf, COVER CONCEPT Alexis Prisendorf, James Grady, FEATURE DESIGNS James Grady, ART PRODUCTION / LAYOUT `Letters ` Let’s think about this some more To the Editor: As the days, weeks and months pass by it is apparent that there are scandal after scandal coming out of Washington. Is anybody paying attention? The recent E-mail scandal that has come to light last week with potential presidential contender Hillary Clinton is one example. How can we have trust in these politicians that clearly break the law in setting up their own e-mail servers to funnel all of their Public correspondence through when they work for We the People? In order to have a fair and equitable form of Democratic governance, there should be full transparency. As the C.O.N. artists (Corporate Owned Networks) spell it out, a potential law has been violated. David Pertraeus, the removed CIA Director is another example. Stepping down from his position and pleading guilty amongst a scandal coming to light of his affair with his biographer, Paula Broadwell. Learning that he passed his private security code onto her and she had potential access to sensitive national security information. Is that not a crime that involves passing on this sensitive information that deserves more than a slap on the wrist? It is clear that there are two sets of rules seeing that If we do not pass this project, we will go to the back of the line, and this has been a 10-year project. Remember what happened to Monument Mountain! Jeff Bradway Edward Snowden is facing the death penalty for bringing to light the government spying on We the people. And Bradly Manning is sitting in jail for life for exposing the war crimes carried out in our name, We the People. Is anybody paying attention to these criminals that work for WE The People and get away with their crimes?? Well, another week has passed and now we discover that the on March 9, 47 United States senators committed a treasonous offense when they decided to violate the Logan Act, a 1799 law which forbids unauthorized citizens from negotiating with foreign governments. Violation of the Logan Act is a felony, punishable under federal law with imprisonment of up to three years. This will be swept under the carpet, I am sure. Is anybody paying attention to these criminals that work for WE The People and get away with their crimes?? Henry A. Kirchdorfer III Stockbridge School is needed To the Editor: I attended the March 16 meeting of the School Building Needs Commission on the design proposal for the new Taconic High School. When I first started attending these meetings last summer, I thought the best course was to renovate the existing building and maybe put on an addition. As the meetings progressed I became convinced that what was needed is a new school, designed for today’s and tomorrow’s educational realities. The new design was approved unanimously by the SBNC, as was the cost for the new structure. This amount is not to exceed $121 million, and we can all agree that is a lot of money. But Pittsfield’s portion will be about $44 million. This will be paid for by issuing bonds which will be paid over 28 years. The increase in property taxes will be about $69 per $100,000 valuation. The rest of the money ($77 million) comes from the Massachusetts School Building Authority and is paid for from revenue from the sales tax. We are currently in a pool of hopeful communities in need of new school buildings. If our project is approved, we get the money. If our project is not approved, someone else will. If we do not pass this project, we will go to the back of the line, and this has been a 10-year project. Remember what happened to Monument Mountain Regional High School. If we just repair the 50-year-old building (asbestos abatement, new roof, new electrical, plumbing, security, etc.) it will cost $36 million — all of which Pittsfield will pay for alone, with no help from the state. So we are really talking about getting a brand new 21st-century school for $8 million more than trying to fix a 50-year-old school that was designed at a time when educational concerns were completely different and is ill-suited to today’s requirements. With this new school we will be able to train our students for good jobs. Some students will be college-track, others will be in vocational programs, but all will have the opportunity to attend a first-class school that will be a magnet for tuition-paying students from outside Pittsfield and also for Pittsfield students who currently leave our system for schools in neighboring communities. With such a school, and the training it can provide tomorrow’s workers, we can attract new businesses and new industries to Pittsfield to help build our tax base and ease the pressure on our residential taxpayers. I urge the community to call or email city councilors and express support of this project. The final design will be presented to the City Council next Tuesday, March 24. Please attend the meeting and show your support. The Council will vote on the project on April 14. Because a bond is needed to pay for this project, a super-majority of votes on the City Council is needed. Jeff Bradway Pittsfield BUSINESS Jeanette Graham, BUSINESS DIRECTOR CIRCULATION Ken Guartha, Ward Schoonmaker DISTRIBUTION The Berkshire View is published monthly and is available throughout Berkshire County at select retail and other business locations at no charge and is limited to one (1) copy of The Berkshire View per person per issue unless special permission is granted by the publisher. Additional copies of The Berkshire View may be purchased for $1 per issue. CONTACT MAIN PHONE: 413-528-5380 | FAX: 413-528-9449 NEWS: 413-528-5380 EXT. 21 ADVERTISING: 413-528-5380 EXT. 38 WEBSITE: www.TheBerkshireView.com MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 868, Gt. Barrington, MA 01230 COPYRIGHT The entire content of The Berkshire View is copyrighted and may not be reproduced or transmitted in any fashion without the expressed and written permission of the publisher. LUNCH SPECIALS! $6.99 • $7.99 • $8.99 DAILY DEALS! MONDAY • TACO DAY: 4 TACOS FOR $4.99 TUESDAY • SALAD DAY: $2 0FF ALL SALADS WEDNESDAY • BURGER DAY: $2 0FF ALL BURGERS THURSDAY • ALL YOU CAN EAT CHICKEN FAJITAS FRIDAY • ALL YOU CAN EAT FISH & CHIPS EVERY DAY DRINK SPECIALS AUTHENTIC MARGARITAS & MUCH MORE THE GARDEN GRILL & TAVERN $5 OFF $30 Purchase With this coupon. Good for food only. No alcohol. OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • (413) 445-5300 Located in The Berkshire Mall, Lanesborough The Berkshire View | April 2015 5 `Just ` The Facts Shock and awe at local theater group By Rick Forbes O ne of the Berkshires shining cultural beacons has be rocked with huge changes this month. The trouble for Shakespeare & Company began when newly installed chief executive Rick Dildine resigned abruptly as executive director of Shakespeare & Company, and then Sarah Hancock, chairwoman of the Board of Trustees, and Vice-Chairwoman Claudia Perles and Vice-Chairman Charles Schader ►► Now all resigned their Simotes posts. has moved Schader has left the on to BTG board of trustees all together, while Perles and Hancock will stay on the board, just not in leadership roles. The latest moves were confirmed by a statement released by Molly Clancy, Publicity and Playbill Director for Shakespeare & Company. “While we are sorry to see these persons leave their positions, changes like these happen from time to time in any organization and it would be a mistake to interpret these departures as a sign that the company is in turmoil or in trouble. Neither is true,” the statement read. “In fact, the company’s financial status has greatly improved over the past years, it has an exciting season about to launch, ticket sales and enrollments in the company’s renowned training and education programs are both strong and the staff is actively engaged in making this season the great success it promises to be.” In response to Dildine’s sudden departure, the Shakespeare & Company board appointed Steve Ball as interim managing director and Ariel Bock and Jonathan Croy as interim co-artistic directors. “We are confident that this new leadership, along with Steve Ball, Interim Managing Director, Ariel Bock and Jonathan Croy, Interim Co-Artistic Directors, will continue the Company’s tradition of artistic excellence and community service,” explained the board in the most recent statement. Hancock had been a leader of the push to oust artistic director and founding member Tony Simotes, who himself had succeeded Tina Packer, the legendary founder of the company, in 2009. Hancock was also a major backer of 6 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Dildine as the new leader under a new “more professional” style of leadership. While it is unclear exactly what led to Hancock’s departure she has confirmed that the fact the group was not heading in the direction she wanted was a major factor. Rumors the began circulating about the possible return of Simotes to his old position, but then the next shoe fell. Kate McGuire, CEO of Berkshire Theater Group, shocked the local theater community by naming Simotes as her new Managing Director and second in command. Many in the community have seen this is a big win for BTG and maybe a threat to Shakespeare if the large donors that supported him follow him to BTG. The moves at Shakespeare appear to be totally unexpected. Only two weeks earlier, the company had sent out a lengthy news release announcing its new season, quoting Dildine about how excited he was “about the season ahead, the talent we have assembled, and the titles we are presenting.” Dildine is returning to Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, where he had served as artistic director for five years before “While we are sorry to see these persons leave their positions, changes like these happen from time to time in any organization and it would be a mistake to interpret these departures as a sign that the company is in turmoil or in trouble. Neither is true” — Molly Clancy, Publicity and Playbill Director for Shakespeare & Company being hired only last summer by Shakespeare & Company. Kathy Aicher, interim director of marketing and communications, told The View, “No one is available for comment at this time.” For his part, Dildine was quoted in the release about his departure as saying, “In evaluating the opportunities ahead for Shakespeare & Company, I’ve decided that my skills are best served in St. Louis.” But Dildine also told St. Louis Public Radio, “The work at Shakespeare & Company was demanding a full-time administrator. And in St. Louis, I’m much closer to the programming and the artists, and that’s where my passion is.” According to the radio station, Dildine said he learned “a lot” in the Berkshires and that he had a positive experience, “but it wasn’t a good fit.” Shakespeare Festival St. Louis is about a quarter of the size of Shakespeare & Company and has a considerably smaller budget. Dildine’s move might have been foreshadowed when he returned to St. Louis on Jan. 19 for the St. Louis Arts Awards, where he saw local arts philanthropists Nancy and Ken Kranzberg speak after they were given an excellence-in-philanthropy award. “What they said resonated with me so much,” Dildine told St. Louis Public Radio. “That the opportunities and the art and the support in St. Louis, is, bar none, and I agree with that.” `Court ` Beat From hitting guardrails to running over road painters drunk driving filled the courts all month Cassandra M. Finn, 30, of So. Undermountain Road, Sheffield, pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of alcohol- third offense, a charge that had been amended from OUI – fourth offense. She also admitted to sufficient facts of driving with a suspended license in Great Barrington. On Nov. 16, 2014, police pulled over Finn after her Jeep Wrangler nearly hit a guardrail four times near Cove Bowling Lanes on Stockbridge Road. An overwhelming smell of alcohol emanated from the jeep. Finn told police she hadn’t been drinking and began crying hysterically. She refused to produce her license and registration, and a check of her license showed that it had been suspended due to a refusal to take a blood alcohol test in connection with another OUI arrest in Connecticut. Finn eventually admitted to drinking three glasses “I didn’t want to get in trouble for drunk driving,” - Cassandra Finn of wine. Police found two 50 ml bottles of sambuca and wine collers as well as empty Miller Lite bottles in the car. Finn had difficulty following instructions on the field sobriety tests and was taken to the station, where she continued to bang on the cell door and yell that she had done nothing wrong and wanted to leave. On Jan. 4, police received another call at 1 a.m. concerning Finn. Her boyfriend said she had left the house after an argument and he was concerned for her safety because he believed she was drunk. Police arrived at the house, where Finn had returned moments before. She denied driving under the influence of alcohol, shouting “I am at my home!” She appeared to be extremely intoxicated, with bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. She then admitted driving up the road then stopping and turning around “because I didn’t want to get in trouble for drunk driving.” Field sobriety tests showed a blood alcohol level of .23. At the time of the Jan. 4 arrest, Finn had three OUI convictions in Massachusetts and Connecticut, and two open OUI cases: on Nov. 17 2014 in Great Barrington and June 14, 2014 in Connecticut. Mead was charged with OUI - fourth offense amended to third offense and a charge of operating with a revoked license for OUI, the latter charge amended to operating with a suspended license. She was sentenced to 18 months in the Berkshire House of Correction, and ordered to serve the first seven months, with the balance suspended until March 9, 2017, to be served concurrently with her previous sentence. She was ordered not to operate a motor vehicle until March 9, 2017 as well. Donald P. Gibbs, 30, of Mechanic St., Great Barrington, admitted to sufficient facts of driving under the influence of alcohol and inflicting serious injury, as well as negligent operation of a motor vehicle. On June 1, 2014 police responded to a report of an accident in front of the Great Barrington Police Department. Manuel Sequeira, an employee of Markings Inc., was hit by a white Jeep Grand Cherokee while painting a turn arrow on the road. Police found him semi-conscious, with a contusion on the side of his head. Gibbs, the driver, remained on the scene and admitted to hitting Sequeira. Police detected a moderate odor of alcohol on Gibbs’s breath, and his speech was slow and deliberate. His breath tests registered .193 and .195. Gibbs was ordered to surrender his license for 90 days, attend a driver alcohol education program and pay its fee of $707.76 as well as a $65 probation fee and $800 in court fines. The case was continued without a finding until March 14, 2016. William L. Kearin, Jr., 30, of Hungerford Street, Pittsfield, pleaded guilty to breaking and entering daytime for a felony and larceny from a building in Lee. On Oct. 5, 2014 a woman reported a past breaking and entering and theft of two rings and seven pairs of sneakers. Her friend had seen Kearin leave her house with an armful of sneakers stuffed under his sweatshirt. When she asked him what he was doing, he chuckled, “Kind of looks like I’m robbing her, doesn’t it?” according to the police report. The friend replied, “Hell yeah, it does.” Another woman reported a ring valued at $4,000 missing as well as a gold bracelet worth $500 and a $400 gold chain. Police received information that Kearin had pawned the jewelry at Pawn Depot in Holyoke. They were able to recover most of the stolen property. Kearin was sentenced to six months in the Berkshire House of Correction, to be served concurrently with a sentence he is already serving. View Photo With all of the changes Shakespeare & Company still plans to offer the full, normal slate of showstoping performances once they get inot their busy summer season. The Berkshire View | April 2015 7 `Turbulence ` `Metro ` A circus without animals? That could be Dalton’s future Good fences make good neighbors? T By Julie Ruth Feuding neighbors in Lenox settle dispute over land strip By Shea Garner he Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has joined a grassroots effort to restrict the display of non-domesticated animals for entertainment in Dalton. After previewing a proposed bylaw for the Select Board in November, local residents Holly ►► Two women Rogers and Marnie Meyers are taking are trying the necessary steps to protect animals with to get an article on new law the warrant for the annual town meeting in June. Unhappy with elements of the annual Lions Club circus held at the Dalton American Legion Field each summer, Meyers, of Windsor, joined the Berkshire Voters for Animals, an ad hoc committee working to protect animals through advocacy, education, and political action, to help introduce the bylaw. “This is something that has kind of bothered us for a long time,” Meyers said. “We’re aware that people have been kind of unhappy with it but nothing’s changed and they haven’t tried to bring other entertainment to town.” Meyers linked up with Rogers, a Pittsfield-based attorney living in Dalton, who offered to spearhead the effort pro bono. As a town resident, Rogers was able to present the proposed bylaw to the Selectmen, who encouraged her to submit an article by petition to the Town Clerk. While only 10 signatures are required to introduce an article at an annual town meeting, the group was able to collect around 40, according to Meyers. Seven other municipalities in the Commonwealth have already enacted similar legislation. I “The time has come. It’s time. There’s so many other ways of entertainment that people are more accepting of.” — Marnie Meyers, co-leader of the movement to dan animals taking part in circus shows Meyers cited Ringling Bros. recent decision to eliminate elephant acts from their shows as another reason to make a change at home. “That’s like a sea change in our culture, nationwide,” she said. “The time has come. It’s time. There’s so many other ways of entertainment that people are more accepting of.” Drawing language directly from bylaws that have already passed in other communities, the proposed bylaws states that no living non-domesticated animal shall be displayed for public entertainment or amusement in circuses, carnivals, traveling events, or other similar entities on property owned by the town of Dalton, town -owned prop- Bardwell, Bowlby & Karam Insurance Agency Inc. HOME LIFE COMMERCIAL (413) 445-5626 • (800) 665-1160 • (413) 445-4404 (Fax) www.bbkinsurance.com 87 East St., PO Box 1700, Pittsfield, MA 01202 8 The Berkshire View | April 2015 erty under lease, or private property. The article does not apply to domestic animals including, but not limited to, dogs, cats, horses, donkeys, and farm animals. Meyers got in touch with the MSPCA for help with outreach moving forward. The organization has been working in an advisory capacity on the project and are “very excited,” according to Meyers. Laura Hagen, Deputy Director of Advocacy at the MSPCA, spoke with The Berkshire Courier about the proposal on Tuesday. “The MSPCA has a position statement that addresses concerns about the use of wild animals and traveling animal acts and to sort of carry out our position in that statement we’ve work with a lot of local groups,” Hagen said. “These things have always been very much lead by people in the community who are not supportive of the way these animals are treated and the amount of traveling they do.” The proposed bylaw must be ready at least 60 days before the annual town meeting in June. It is typically submitted to the Town Clerk before the Attorney General approves it for language. “No news is good news,” said Meyers of the progress. “It’s on its way.” A small notice informing residents of the coming vote will appear in Animal Life, a regional pet and animal newspaper, in the coming weeks. “People’s attitudes are changing,” said Hagen of the issue. “It’s just no longer acceptable.” For more information, visit www. mspca.org or “like” the Berkshire Voters for Animals on Facebook. Your Best Choice for Competitive Auto Insurance Edward A. Chagnon, CIC | Edward R. O’Brien, Jr. | Paul F. Bowlby Robert D. Bardwell III | Robert J. Zuber, CLU, ChFC, CIC Robert J. Uliasz, CLU, ChFC, CIC n the end, a Boston Land Court judge did not have to render a decision in a four-year-long, $40,000+ dispute involving an 8 x 2 foot triangle of land on St. Ann’s Ave. The homeowners at 31 and 33 St. Ann’s Ave. quietly reached an out-of-court settlement last summer, said Marc Aronoff, one of the two homeowners involved in the long-running dispute. As part of the settlement, Aronoff received several thousand dollars in exchange for the rights to “the triangle,” the disputed sliver of land, the width of a standard threeseat sofa, which borders the two St. Ann’s Ave. properties. Great Barrington attorney Dennis LaRochelle, who represented the opposing parties, former Lenox Town Planner Mary Albertson and her partner, Eyal Shapira, declined comment on the settlement. Albertson and Shapira sold the 31 St. ►► After a Ann’s Ave. propfour year erty not long after legal battle neighbors end the settlement, and its new owner land battle has said that she wants to keep the existing boundary as is, Aronoff said. “Long story short, the fence stays where it is, and the triangle – that little piece of land – I believe is technically deeded to the (owner of 31 St. Ann’s Ave.), with the understanding that everything would stay as it is, but at some future time, theoretically, they have that little section of land.” It was an amicable solution to a neverending, at times explosive land dispute that began in 2011, involved local police on a few occasions on a quiet Lenox residential street, and led to a trial in Massachusetts Land Court with a 300+ page transcript. How did once cordial neighbors wind up in an expensive dispute over a sliver of land? By all accounts, the owners of 31 and 33 St. Ann’s Ave. peacefully shared a driveway for many years, with 31 St. Ann’s Ave, owned by Albertson and Shapira, located on St. Ann’s Ave. itself. Aronoff, the owner of 33 St. Ann’s Ave., lived directly behind them on a piece of land with no direct access to the street. An easement gave Aronoff, who bought his home in January 2002, permission to enter and exit his property via the shared driveway. Attorney LaRochelle, who represented Albertson and Shapira, told the Record last year that the dispute started after Albertson decided to replace an old fence that had been erected by a previous owner in 1997 between the two properties. She hired a surveyor to determine the legal property line, who discovered that it stretched beyond the fence but also beyond an old stone wall that Aronoff. The area between the old fence and the legal property line is technically shaped like an 8 x 2 foot quadrilateral, but all parties refer to it as “the triangle” in court documents. Albertson and Shapira notified Aronoff of the new property line and intention to put the fence on the newly-discovered boundary, including “the triangle.” Aronoff had a different recollection of the origin of the dispute, citing a disagreement over easement maintenance and other incidents that triggered the decision to survey the land and put up a new fence. He did not challenge that the triangle was owned by Albertson and Shapira, however. For the purposes of the case, it was the accepted legal northwest boundary of the 31 St. Ann’s Ave. But Aronoff argued in court that he could claim ownership of the sliver of land by adverse possession, meaning that he and previous owners of 33 St. Ann’s Ave. had openly treated the triangle as part of their own property for a long period of time, while the legal owners at 31 St. Ann’s Ave. did not restrict their efforts to assert ownership in any way. Aronoff said that he wanted to retain his own surveyor at the time the boundary dispute began, but he could not afford the several-thousand-dollar fee. He was advised by legal counsel that he had a strong case for adverse possession at that time. He later did raise the funds and have his own surveyor conduct a property line search, which differs from the one on record. To prove his adverse possession case, Aronoff subpoenaed previous owners of both 31 and 33 St. Ann’s Ave. going back to 1985 to either testify or give depositions to show that the triangle had been used “openly, continuously, notoriously and without permission for over 20 consecutive years” – the threshold required to prove adverse possession in Massachusetts. LaRochelle countered that Aronoff had primarily used the triangle to store his garbage receptacle. To prove adverse possession, LaRochelle argued that “use” must be something beyond simply caring for the property, as some previous owners said in depositions or in court testimony. Erecting a fence or building a patio on the property make a far stronger claim of adverse possession, for example. “To put it in layman’s terms, that would put the real owner on notice that you’re making a claim that it’s your property,” LaRochelle explained. “A reasonable person would say, ‘I better do something: you can’t do that on my property.’ ” Albertson and Shapira served Aronoff with an eight-count lawsuit, including two counts of trespassing, for leaving his garbage out on the street for several days, in violation of easement regulations. Aronoff said he only put the garbage out on day it was supposed to be picked up, but sometimes the service didn’t pick it up on the appointed day. Larochelle said Aronoff had put his garbage out on the easement several days a week. Aronoff was also accused of improperly using gravel from the neighboring property to fill holes in the driveway. The 8x2 feet sliver of land dispute, subject of a four-year lawsuit in Lenox. As the multiple-count lawsuit got underway, the plaintiffs grew frustrated when Aronoff requested an extension of time to prepare the case because he would be out of town. LaRochelle suggested they photograph Aronoff coming and going down his driveway to prove that he was not traveling. What followed was an incident in 2013 where Aronoff called Lenox police department. Aronoff reported that he looked up at 31 St. Ann’s Ave. and saw what he thought was someone was pointing a gun at him, according to a police report. It turned out to be Albertson in the window pointing a camera, not a gun, from the window, but the police were called and they questioned her. The parties then filed several motions and counter-motions regarding photography, driving the judge to prohibit all parties from taking pictures of each other without permission from the court. The judge also ordered Aronoff to purchase gravel to fill the holes he wanted to maintain in the driveway. He was also not permitted to move his garbage down the driveway after 9 p.m. or before 6 a.m. Eight days later, the court reversed these rulings after Aronoff objected to the plaintiffs’ proposed video camera installation on the property in response to break-ins they said that had occurred in the Lenox area. The land court judge told the parties that until the case was settled, Aronoff could transport his garbage any time he wished on the driveway, and the parties were free to photograph each other without first obtaining permission from the court. Albertson and Shapira eventually dropped the trespass charges in the lawsuit, leaving adverse possession lawsuit that was settled out of court last summer. Photo Contributed The Berkshire View | April 2015 9 After decades of performing with legends, the drum master returns to the Berkshires W hat do Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Bruno Mars, Leonard Bernstein, half of the Beatles and the Berkshires have in common? Kenny Aronoff. The list of performers Aronoff has worked with reads like a history lesson in rock and roll history. Sting, B.B King, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, Willie Nelson, Mick Jagger, Elton John, John Mellencamp, Dave Grohl, Lady Ga Ga, and so many other 10 The Berkshire View | April 2015 artists that are household names. And now, after years of traveling the world and performing thousands of concerts, the prodigal son of Stockbridge is coming home to the place where he first fell in love with music. On April 16, He’ll take the stage at the Colonial Theater in Pittsfield with the BoDeans to perform his first show back in the area in nearly 40 years. “There is no pressure at all, it’s really exciting,” said Aronoff. “I feel really nostalgic playing in the Berkshires. I don’t get to do it that often, it’s really cool. I haven’t played Pittsfield since I was playing the Boys Club in a band with my twin brother Jon at the YMCA.” The legendary drummer has played 20,000-seat venues and huge stadiums, but to come back home and play a much more intimate show is something the artist said he is looking forward to. “The thing that’s cool about these smaller venues is, there are lot of bands and artists that have been around for a long time, that come through here and the place will be filled up. It’s great for everyone. The tickets are affordable and the audience’s get to see their favorite bands up close and the bands get to connect with and the bands to connect with the audiences better,” he said. “I remember playing with the BoDeans in a huge assembly hall concert at Indiana University with over 10,000 people crammed in there and now people can come see the BoDeans in a more intimate setting. At this point in my career, the stage is my home and I’m really into connecting with the musicians in the band, and the audiences love that and they are part of that experience. It’s a unique experience that is happening for that particular night and only that night.” There’s an added something special about this upcoming experience for Aronoff. Born and raised in Stockbridge, he had the seeds of his long and successful career sown and love for music planted in the heart of Berkshire County as a boy fascinated with The Beatles. “When I was a kid I remember watching the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show and seeing their movie “A Hard Day’s Night” in the Mahaiwe Theater in Great Barrington. I remember how much I wanted to be in The Beatles,” said Aronoff. “I Told my Mom I wanted to be in the Beatles. We are in a town of only 3,000 people so the reaction was “Hey, that’s cute Kenny.”, but I was relentless. I got together with a few friends and we created our own band. [with John Sauer, Jeff Hodges and Steve Harris]. I only could afford a snare drum and a cymbal which I paid for by working at 25 cents an hour.” The Berkshires are where Aronoff first learned that to get where he wanted to be, he had find a way to make it work regardless of his situation. Still in its early stages, there wasn’t much outlet for rock and roll in the rural areas like the Berkshires so Aronoff took it upon himself to learn how to play the drum set on his own. His quest to be the next Beatles started after performing in bands all through high school in the Berkshires and that desire to be better drove him to hop on to a Greyhound bus and head to Newton, MA to start studying classical music with Arthur Continued on page 12 The Berkshire View | April 2015 11 Photos contributed Kenny Aronoff has worked with many well known artists including Bob Dylan, Alanis Morissett, Carlos Santana and Bruce Springsteen 12 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Press, the Principle Percussionist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. “We worked on mallets, snare drum and tympani,” he said. “I eventually started studying with Vic Firth, the tympanist in the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood. Both teachers whipped me into shape.” With his newly expanded repertoire Aronoff decided his next step would be to head to some college to study music more seriously. It was there that he got his first taste of the competitive nature, and heavy discipline in the music world: practicing eight hours a day, competing with his fellow classmates and putting in the extra effort to set himself apart. That work would lead him down a road that would change his life forever. “In my freshman year studying percussion at The University of Massachusetts I’ heard about the Aspen Music Festival run by the Julliard School of Music and decided to go for it. For my audition, they asked me to perform on three out of four instruments, (mallets, snare drum, tympani and multiple percussion), but I chose to perform on all four,” he said. “My goal was to go to Aspen to be around the best percussionists in the country. I got accepted at the last minutes and that summer changed my life; two weeks after getting accepted, I was Aspen and that’s where I met Professor George Gaber, an amazing teacher who taught at Indiana University School of Music. I auditioned to go to [IU] while studying in Aspen and I got accepted. It was the top music school in the country at that time. I wanted to be at the best school with the most competition,” said Aronoff. “I eventually rose to the top by just working my ass off, and eventually got into the Tanglewood Music Program in Lenox after auditioning every year for four years.” He graduated from Indiana University in 1976, and with several orchestras and symphonies ready to bring him in, Aronoff made another decision that would change his life again. He opted instead to chase his dream from when he was 10-years-old watching The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show. He moved back to Stockbridge and studied drum set in New York City and Boston every week. “Hard work, fueled by passion, and on going education is a big part of my success and creating a plan and executing it is a big part of my philosophy,” he said. “My first plan was to go to college, get a degree, get a job in the field I had studied. I fulfilled that dream when I was asked to join two different orchestras, but I realized I wanted to go back to that dream to be in the Beatles. I spent four years practicing 8-hours-a-day on the drum set playing in bands and eventually it paid off.” His big break came when he was offered a chance to audition for John Cougar Mellencamp in Bloomington, Ind. where he was living and playing in an original rock band. “At first I was thinking I wasn’t a big fan of John’s music, but then I realized he was on the radio, on MTV, and was touring all over the U.S., Canada and Europe. It’s exactly the thing I always wanted to do,” he said. “I did everything to get familiar with with people getting fired all around me, he I remember seeing Norman Mailer at my said he felt the pressure, but it turned out to parents New Year’s Eve party and another be a huge Grammy Award success and the year Norman Rockwell came. This seemed number one rock record of the year. normal to me, but now I realize it was a very “I remember having to come up with the unique environment. “ drum part and drum solo for Jack and Diane He’s been on more than 30 Grammyon the spot,” he said. “I just had to come nominated records and has been recognized up with something and it turned out to be a as the number one studio drummer for five number one hit single, but when it became consecutive years by Modern Drummer number one, I only celebrated for a minutes Magazine. He’s met Presidents Carter, Clinbecause my immediate concern was ‘can I do ton, George H. W. and George W. Bush and this again?” Barak Obama. But the pinnacle of it all was That work turned into ten albums and 17 when he finally achieved the dream of that years performing across the globe, selling out 10-year-old from Stockbridge, performing arenas and living the rock star dream. side by side with Paul McCartney and Ringo • Container Service “We ended up selling out arenas someStarr at the 50th anniversary of that same Ed times two nights in a row, in cities like L.A., Sullivan performance that inspired his career. ROAD SERVICE Madison Square Garden with no opening “Yeah, with the Beatles that was incred• Jump starts acts,” he said. “We were suddenly huge rock ible experience, but I focused on my job and stars with luxurious tour buses; and private not the event so much. Those shows are not • Change tires jets. it was wild times and we were living it easy,” said Aronoff. “I write every note out and loving it.” for each song I am playing with lots of in But, as Aronoff put it, he would soon structions on the chart I am reading, and what be coming up with his third plan when he the next song is. On that show, in between and John Cougar Mellencamp parted ways songs, as they made set changes I was pracin 1996. It was a transitional time that saw ticing the next song and staying focused. It’s him begin touring with acts like Bob Seger, the Super Bowl. It’s my job and what I do. I Melissa Etheridge, The Smashing Pumpkins did have a great hand with Paul and Ringo and John Fogerty and establishing himself before the the show for 30 minutes and that as the go-to session drummer. He would was an amazing moment. I was sitting there tirelessly travel anywhere, anytime. Working thinking I can’t believe this is happening to Potter Mountain Road • Pittsfield 01201 seven days a week to make records across me, 50 years later” America and outside the U.S. But even with all the accolades, the • Serving Berkshire County • “I wasn’t afraid when I left John Meldrummer is never resting on his laurels. He lencamp’s band because I was already an currently runs his Uncommon Studios LA in established session drummer. But it was hard North Hollywood, recording drums for artists to leave a band I had been in for 17 years,” and bands and continues to tour with groups said Aronoff. “When I started touring with across the world. other bands, I negotiated that I was paid on “I don’t believe in the past. I believe the days I worked, but my days off they were your future is your present,” said Aronoff. mine and I would fly all over the country “Over 200 hundred gold and platinum to do sessions or drum clinics. There was records doesn’t matter-- that is just for a a two week period where I was rehearsing conversation. I’m still being judged on my Financing Through Federal for a John Fogerty tour 12 to 6, then record M-F last song I recorded. sit there thinking Greylock Open 9-5, Sat.I don’t 8-12 Credit Union a session from 7 to 11, and then record from ‘Oh my God, I am one of the most recorded midnight to 5 a.m. with the Rolling Stones in drummers ever.’ The music business has Financing Through Greylock Federal Open M-F 9-5, Sat. 8-12 Los Angeles. Then on the weekends I would changed so much and I’ve had to reinvent Credit Union fly to [New] Jersey to record for Jon Bon myself and keep pushing forward. Jovi.” “Forget the past; that is a waste of time,” Aronoff has built a reputation as one of he said. “If you are not on the field you can’t the best session drummers in the world. 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He had won a spot in a huge act but almost lost out as soon as he got into the studio to record John’s next record in Los Angeles, five weeks after joining the band. “The producer didn’t want me; he wanted two session drummers to play on the record. John told me to come down to his room for a band meeting after the second day of recording. He explained to me you haven’t had a lot of experience making records to be played on the radio,” he said. “I was not happy about any of this and I stood up and Photos contributed I said, ‘NO! I’m not going home, you don’t have to pay me and I’ll sleep on the floor. I want to watch these drummed record my drum parts that I came up with and I’ll learn and benefit by watching these guys, because I am your drummed. You will benefit from what I learn.” Aronoff did stay for four weeks watching the drummersJoe record hisRenzi parts and learned all he could. He was determined to play on the next 413-446-0955 record and eventually did. 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Serving Breakfast and Lunch Daily Until 2pm Monday–Friday 5:30am–2pm • Saturday 6:30am–2:00pm • Sunday 6:30am–12:30pm The stories behind the headlines. 413-684-0900 16 Depot Street Dalton, MA www.MillTownTavern.com fresh pizza • award winning wings 1/2 pound angus burgers • full bar TUNE IN WEEKLY The Berkshire Courier 14 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Check your local TV listings for broadcast times www.ctsbtv.org Sunday: 12-9 • Mon-Wed 4-9 • Thur-Sat 11:30-10 phoenixnewtimes.com 640 TYLER STREET - 413-443-0324 St. Patrick'S Day GuiDe 451 Dalton Ave., Pittsfield, MA 01201 phoenix new times VARIETY & LUNCHEONETTE March 12th– March 18th, 2015 z 56 The Berkshire View | April 2015 15 5 95 95 PJ’s Smoke Shop The Best Glass pieces at the Lowest Prices unwrap your gift with a bang! 312 Tyler St., Pittsfield • (413) 464-8712 http://pjssmokeshop.mysimplestore.com A Piercing! Check out our latest and greatest jewelry styles and colors, all to customize you! Stop in today! You can call, text, email or facebook us anytime! s s Celebrating our 20th Anniversary DJ I.T.S., at Bogies Steak & Ale. 935 South Main Street, Great Barrington. (413) 5285959. Live Music, performance at the Olde Heritage Tavern, 12 Housatonic Street, Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 637-0884. Quarter Life Crisis, acoustic duo Brian Benlien and Jim Witherell perform at the Mill Town Tavern, 16 Depot Street, Dalton. 9 p.m. (413) 684-0900. Open Mic Night, at the Route 63 Roadhouse. 32 Federal Street, Miller Falls. 9 p.m. (413) 659-3384. Country Night, hosted by Randy Cormier at the Underground Pub at Crowne Plaza. 1 West Street, Pittsfield. 9 p.m. (413) 553-2214. Karaoke, at Rascals Grill. 32 North Summer Street, Adams. 9 p.m. (413) 743-5870. Stevie Smith, live performance from the artist at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Other AU T H E N T I C M E X I C A N C U I S I N E ~ Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner ~ 156 NORTH STREET, PITTSFIELD, MA • 413.499.2266 ~ Open 7 Days a Week for Lunch & Dinner ~ 1 5 6 N O R T H S T R E E T, P I T T S F I E L D , M A • 413.499.2266 APPETIZERS Fresh squeezed lime juice MARGARITAS & daily specials Cocktail de Camaron....................10.95 Shimp Cocktail Mexican Style w/ cilantro, onions, special tomato sauce & avocado. Quesadilla.................................7.95 Chicken, Steak, Veggie or Cactus. APPETIZERS Rebosos con Mole..........................6.50 2 corn tortillas filled w/plantain, topped w/Mole Poblano & Sesame seeds w/cheese. Empanadas.......................................5.95 3 puffed corn masa patties filled with seasoned ground beef and potato. Flautas..............................................7.95 5 crispy taquitos filled w/meat, topped w/guacamole, crema, lettuce, green sauce & cotija cheese. Tostadas (chicken or steak)..........7.95 2 crispy corn tortilla topped w/refried beans, lettuce, tomato, salsa, Mexican cream, guacamole and cheese. Cocktail de Camaron.. . . . . . . . . .10.95 Quesadil a. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.95 16 Shimp Cocktail Mexican Style w/ cilantro, Chicken, Steak, Veggie or Cactus. Tamal....4.50 Cheese Nachos....5.95 Jalapeño Poppers..4.95 Fr. Fries..4.50 Mozzarella Sticks..............................4.95 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Nachos w/Steak, Chicken, Chili or Ground Beef.......................................7.75 Sopes (Pork, Chicken or Steak)...8.95 3 corn patties topped with beans, lettuce, Mexican cream, salsa and guacamole. Panchos Sampler............................30.00 3 empanadas, 2 tamal, 1 fried plantain, 3 quesadillas, 2 chorizos, 2 flautas, guacamole, pico de galo, salsa, sour cream. SALADS Tuesday, April 7 Music Music Commemorate 2014-15 school year with 149 Tyler Street, Pittsfield, MA • 413-442-7723 [email protected] www.facebook.com/crazychameleon Spoken Word and Poetry night, a monthly event bringing together performers of storytelling, spoken word and poetry. At the Good Purpose Gallery, 40 Main Street, Lee. 6:30 p.m. (413) 394-5045. MCLA Dance Company, performing new works created by the students from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. At the Hunter Center at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 8 p.m. (413) 664-4481. Feel free to call with questions or orders! Exotic Body Piercing Other Dance Mention this ad and get a free light pipe with a $10 purchase 95 s Thursday, April 2 Jennifer Wick (413) 464-8712 95 0 0 5 T heater • M usic • C omedy • C oncer ts • D ance • T alks , C lasses & W orkshops • S pecial E vents • O ther jayleeskeepsake [email protected] 5 0 0 5 5 0 0 0 5 day+night Jaylee’s Keepsake Balloons Pediatric Development Center’s Ladies’ Night Out, the 3rd annual fundraiser featuring Wine and Beer tasting and a silent auction. At the Colonial Theater, 111 South Street, Pittsfield. 7 p.m. (413) 997-4444. Night Owl Special Night, at the Bousquet Mountain, 101 Dan Fox Drive, Pittsfield. 6:30 p.m. (413) 442-8316. Friday, April 3 Dance MCLA Dance Company, performing new works created by the students from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. At Club B-10 at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 8 p.m. (413) 664-4481. Music Shel, performing with Otan Vargas’ at Club Helsinki Hudson. 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 9 p.m. (518) 828-4800. Jeannie & John, live performance from the artist at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Open Mic, at Bounti-Fare Restaurant & Catering. 200 Howland Avenue, Adams. (413) 743-0193. Blue Light Trio, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, . BoDeans, with Stockbridge’s own drumming legend Kenny Aronoff the band takes the stage at the Colonial on April 16. Tom Carroll, live performance from the artist at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Open Mic Night, at Bogies Steak & Ale, 935 South Main Street. Great Barrington. 9 p.m. (413) 528-5959. Open Mic, at The Purple Pub. 65 Spring Street, Williamstown. 8 p.m. (413) 458-0095. Other Trivia, at Mazcots Sports Bar & Grill. 490 Pittsfield Road, Rte. 7 Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 499-1101. Wednesday, April 8 Music Photo contributed In a rare performance, indie rock icons Neutral Milk Hotel will play at MASS MoCA on April 17. Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Other Bingo, at St. Mary’s School. 115 Orchard Street, Lee. 5 p.m. (413) 243-1079. Saturday, April 4 Music Big & Bigger, live performance from the artist at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. The Stone Coyotes, live musical performance with Santina King. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Wendy Walz & Jim Dignum, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Other Maciste in Hell, a screening with a live score by Sex Mob. At the Hunter Center at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 8 p.m. (413) 664-4481. Tim Abbott, the Greenprint Director with Housatonic Valley Association will discuss invasive plant species. At the Mason Library, 231 Main Street, Great Barrington. 10:30 a.m. (413) 528-2403. Sunday, April 5 Music Nellie McKay, performing at Club Helsinki Hudson. 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 8 p.m. (518) 828-4800. The Adams Brothers, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Sunday Musical Brunch, at the Starving Artist Creperie & Café. 40 Main Street, Suite 2, Lee. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (413) 394-5046. T Bird and the Breaks, live musical performance with Gang of Thieves. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 8:30 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Monday, April 6 Music Dana Welts, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Four Events That You Shouldn’t Miss Out On This Month Keigwin + Company, the celebrated choreographer will bring his dance company to MASS MoCA for a pair of performances. Animal House, BIFF and the Mahaiwe reunite cast members from the hilarious 1978 comedy for a special Q&A and film screening. Music in the Lion’s Den, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, live musical performance with Daddy Long Legs. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 8:30 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Peter Primamore Group, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Thursday, April 9 Music DJ I.T.S., at Bogies Steak & Ale. 935 South Main Street, Great Barrington. (413) 5285959. Live Music, performance at the Olde Heritage Tavern, 12 Housatonic Street, Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 637-0884. Quarter Life Crisis, acoustic duo Brian Benlien and Jim Witherell perform at the Mill Town Tavern, 16 Depot Street, Dalton. 9 p.m. (413) 684-0900. Open Mic Night, at the Route 63 Roadhouse. 32 Federal Street, Miller Falls. 9 p.m. (413) 659-3384. The Malibu Brothers, live performance at Bosquet Mountain. 101 Dan Fox Drive, Pittsfield. 6:30 p.m. (413)442-8316. Country Night, hosted by Randy Cormier at the Underground Pub at Crowne Plaza. 1 West Street, Pittsfield. 9 p.m. (413) 553-2214. Karaoke, at Rascals Grill, 32 North Summer Street, Adams. 9 p.m. (413) 743-5870. Tal National, live musical performance with The Gaslight Tinkers. At the Iron Horse Music Katherine Winston, The American Idol contestant and pride of Lenox takes the stage at the Garage on April 18. The Berkshire View | April 2015 17 Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Music in the Lion’s Den, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Other Deceptive Practice, a screening of the film Deceptive Practice: The Mysteries and Mentors of Ricky Jay with a Q&A following the film. At the Club B-10 at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 7:30 p.m. (413) 664-4481. Friday, April 10 Music Willie and Jan, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Seth Glier, live musical performance with Rachael Sage. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Blue Light Trio, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Other “The Godfather”, a special screening of the iconic film starring Marlon Brando and Al Pacino. At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 7 p.m. (413) 528-0100. 5th Annual Teen Invitational, a collection of local student’s artwork from northern Berkshire schools. Building 4 at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 7 p.m. (413) 664-4481. Saturday, April 11 Dance Keigwin + Company, co-presented with Jacob’s Pillow Dance a program from choreographer Larry Keigwin. At the Hunter Center at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 8 p.m. (413) 664-4481. Music Ryan Montbleau Band, performing at Club Helsinki Hudson. 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 9 p.m. (518) 828-4800. Diva and the Dirty Boys, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. The Box Car Lillies, live musical performance with Eric Lee. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Eskay, live musical performance with Jon Efect and Filthtown 4. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 10 p.m. (413) 586-8686. The Picky Bastards, live performance at Bosquet Mountain. 101 Dan Fox Drive, Pittsfield. 8 p.m. (413)442-8316. Other JUST EAT IT: A Food Waste Story, a special film screening part of the Project Native Film Festival with a Q&A with the filmmakers after. At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 7 p.m. (413) 528-0100. Sunday, April 12 Dance Keigwin + Company, co-presented with Jacob’s Pillow Dance a program from choreographer Larry Keigwin. At the Hunter Center at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 3 p.m. (413) 664-4481. 18 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Music Music Eric Erickson, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Antsy McClain, live musical performance with The Sixty One Ramblers. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Sunday Musical Brunch, at the Starving Artist Creperie & Café. 40 Main Street, Suite 2, Lee. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (413) 394-5046. James Mess, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Sunday Musical Brunch, at the Starving Artist Creperie & Café. 40 Main Street, Suite 2, Lee. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (413) 394-5046. Protomartyr, live musical performance with The Gotobeds. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Portland Cello Project, live musical performance. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Monday, April 20 Music Other Christopher John, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Vienna Teng, live musical performance with The Bollands. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey, a one man play from James Lecesne part of the Helsinki on Broadway. At Club Helsinki Hudson, 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 9 p.m. (518) 828-4800. Monday, April 13 Pool Tournament, winner take all $5 entry. At Bogies Steak and Ale 935 Main Street, Great Barrington. 7 p.m. (413) 528-5959. Tuesday, April 14 Wednesday, April 15 Music Grahm Sturz, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Peter Primamore Group, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Thursday, April 16 Music BoDeans, Rolling Stone’s 1987 best new American band come to the Berkshires for a live performance. At the Colonial Theatre, 111 South Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 997-4444. ProJam #10, at Club Helsinki Hudson, 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 8 p.m. (518) 828-4800. DJ I.T.S., at Bogies Steak & Ale. 935 South Main Street, Great Barrington. (413) 5285959. Live Music, performance at the Olde Heritage Tavern, 12 Housatonic Street, Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 637-0884. Quarter Life Crisis, acoustic duo Brian Benlien and Jim Witherell perform at the Mill Town Tavern, 16 Depot Street, Dalton. 9 p.m. (413) 684-0900. Photo contributed Folk legend Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary will perform at the Iron Horse Music Hall on Saturday, April 25. Open Mic Night, at the Route 63 Roadhouse. 32 Federal Street, Miller Falls. 9 p.m. (413) 659-3384. Country Night, hosted by Randy Cormier at the Underground Pub at Crowne Plaza. 1 West Street, Pittsfield. 9 p.m. (413) 553-2214. Karaoke, at Rascals Grill. 32 North Summer Street, Adams. 9 p.m. (413) 743-5870. Dan Stevens, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Elvis Perkins, performing live following the release his third album “I Aubade.” At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Friday, April 17 Music Neutral Milk Hotel, Jeff Mangum and the indie rock icons perform with the Dot Wiggin Band. At the Hunter Center at MASS MoCA 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams. 8 p.m. (413) 664-4481. Over the Rhine, at Club Helsinki Hudson, 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 9 p.m. (518) 828-4800. Art Steele, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Ellis Paul, live musical performance with Chris Trapper (of the Push Stars). At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Sexy Girls, live musical performance with Kid Mountain and WYDYDE. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 10 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Blue Light Trio, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Comedy Paul D’Angelo, presented by Pittsfield Firefighters Local #2647. At the Colonial Theatre, 111 South Street, Pittsfield. 7 p.m. (413) 997-4444. Saturday, April 18 Music Sunday, April 19 Friday, April 24 The Hard Problem, a screening in London’s National Theatre in HD performance. At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 3 p.m. (413) 528-0100. Lady Di and the Dukes, live performance from the artist at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Theater Music Ivan the Terrible, a screening of the Bolshoi Ballet in HD performance. At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 1 p.m. (413) 528-0100. Monday, April 27 Music Sandy and Sandy, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Other Pool Tournament, winner take all $5 entry. At Bogies Steak and Ale 935 Main Street, Great Barrington. 7 p.m. (413) 528-5959. Tuesday, April 28 Music Micah Stone, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Open Mic Night, at Bogies Steak & Ale, 935 South Main Street. Great Barrington. 9 p.m. (413) 528-5959. Open Mic, at The Purple Pub. 65 Spring Street, Williamstown. 8 p.m. (413) 458-0095. Other Defining Real Estate in the Berkshires Wednesday, April 29 Music Chapin Fish, Broker-Partner The Berkshires Top-Selling Broker of 2013 with Highest Total Sales† Kirsten Fredsall, Broker-Associate • Michael Mielke, Realtor® Associate • Thom Garvey, Realtor® Associate Kevin Fish, Business Operations Manager - Realtor® Associate • Bill Brockman, Founding Partner † according to data provided by the Berkshire County Multiple Listing Service Members of: duPont REGISTRY berkshiresforsale.com 413-528-4859 [email protected] at 276 main street, great barrington with farm & home quality American-made goods & gifts cinema story telling. At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 7 p.m. (413) 528-0100. Saturday, April 25 Music Other Trivia, at Mazcots Sports Bar & Grill. 490 Pittsfield Road, Rte. 7 Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 499-1101. Music Katherine Winston, the American Idol contestant from Lenox performs at the Garage. The Colonial Theatre, 111 South Street, Pittsfield. 8 p.m. (413) 997-4444. The New York Wind Quintet, Close Encounters with Music present the woodwind quintet for their program “Surveying the Centuries.” At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 6 p.m. (413) 528-0100. David Reed Trio, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. The Juliana Hatfield 3, live musical performance with Potty Mouth. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Wendy Walz & Jim Dignum, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. BIFF presents Animal House Reunion, with a special cast reunion featuring Peter Riegert, Karen Allen, John Landis, Deborah Nedoolman Landis and a screening of the classic 1978 comedy. At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 7 p.m. (413) 528-0100. Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana/Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci, a screening of the Met Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Your goals are our only priority and your satisfaction is our only measure of success. Thursday, April 23 Richard Thompson, at Club Helsinki Hudson. 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 8 p.m. (518) 828-4800. DJ I.T.S., at Bogies Steak & Ale. 935 South Main Street, Great Barrington. (413) 528-5959. Live Music, performance at the Olde Heritage Tavern, 12 Housatonic Street, Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 637-0884. Quarter Life Crisis, acoustic duo Brian Benlien and Jim Witherell perform at the Mill Town Tavern, 16 Depot Street, Dalton. 9 p.m. (413) 684-0900. Open Mic Night, at the Route 63 Roadhouse. 32 Federal Street, Miller Falls. 9 p.m. (413) 659-3384. Country Night, hosted by Randy Cormier at the Underground Pub at Crowne Plaza. 1 West Street, Pittsfield. 9 p.m. (413) 553-2214. Karaoke, at Rascals Grill. 32 North Summer Street, Adams. 9 p.m. (413) 743-5870. Tom Gizzi , live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Other We simply give our very best to every client, every time. Wednesday, April 22 Rev Tor Solo, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Peter Primamore Group, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Ralphie May, the comedian performs on the heels of his most recent Netflix release “Unruly.” At the Colonial Theater, 111 South Street, Pittsfield. 8 p.m. (413) 997-4444. We listen to you and will provide you with personalized service based on knowledge and experience. Trivia, at Mazcots Sports Bar & Grill. 490 Pittsfield Road, Rte. 7 Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 499-1101. Music Comedy Why choose Brockman? Other Music LuxDeluxe, Arkells, live musical performance. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 10 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Brockman has been a leader in Berkshire real estate as well as luxury home sales for nearly 40 years. We work diligently to achieve a perfect balance between ethical, honest representation and creative, dynamic marketing. Ray Mason, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Open Mic Night, at Bogies Steak & Ale, 935 South Main Street. Great Barrington. 9 p.m. (413) 528-5959. Open Mic, at The Purple Pub. 65 Spring Street, Williamstown. 8 p.m. (413) 458-0095. Other Trivia, at Mazcots Sports Bar & Grill. 490 Pittsfield Road, Rte. 7 Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 499-1101. BIFF presents Hollywood Costume, Deborah Nadoolman Landis discusses the central role of costume design as essential tool of Music Tom Savoy, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Other Other Tuesday, April 21 Music Tom Corrigan, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Open Mic Night, at Bogies Steak & Ale, 935 South Main Street. Great Barrington. 9 p.m. (413) 528-5959. Open Mic, at The Purple Pub. 65 Spring Street, Williamstown. 8 p.m. (413) 458-0095. Kathy Mattea, live musical performance with Eyes. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Soultree, Demse vs. Machines, live musical performance with Eyes. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 10 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Blue Light Trio, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Rakish Paddy, live musical performance at the Freight Yard Pub. At the Western Gateway Heritage State Park. North Adams, 8 p.m. (413) 663-6547. Peter Yarrow, live musical performance from the Peter, Paul and Mary member. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Buffalo Stack, performing at Club Helsinki Hudson, 405 Columbia Street, Hudson N.Y. 9 p.m. (518) 828-4800. Bigger Boat, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Opera Live in HD performance with a Scott Eyerly’s pre-broadcast lecture. At the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington. 12:30 p.m. (413) 528-0100. Sunday, April 26 Music Rakish Paddy,, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Sunday Musical Brunch, at the Starving Artist Creperie & Café. 40 Main Street, Suite 2, Lee. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (413) 394-5046. Pedrito Martinez Group, live musical performance. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Jeff Martell, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Darlingside, live musical performance with Bombadil. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. Peter Primamore Group, live musical performance at the Rainbow Restaurant. 101 First Street, Pittsfield. 7:30 p.m. (413) 443-0002. Thursday, April 30 Music DJ I.T.S., at Bogies Steak & Ale. 935 South Main Street, Great Barrington. (413) 5285959. Live Music, performance at the Olde Heritage Tavern, 12 Housatonic Street, Lenox. 8 p.m. (413) 637-0884. Quarter Life Crisis, acoustic duo Brian Benlien and Jim Witherell perform at the Mill Town Tavern, 16 Depot Street, Dalton. 9 p.m. (413) 684-0900. Open Mic Night, at the Route 63 Roadhouse. 32 Federal Street, Miller Falls. 9 p.m. (413) 659-3384. Country Night, hosted by Randy Cormier at the Underground Pub at Crowne Plaza. 1 West Street, Pittsfield. 9 p.m. (413) 5532214. Karaoke, at Rascals Grill. 32 North Summer Street, Adams. 9 p.m. (413) 743-5870. Gary Jones, live performance at the Lion’s Den. At the Red Lion Inn, 30 Main Street, Stockbridge. 8 p.m. (413) 298-5545. Griffin House, live musical performance with Matthew LArsen and the Documents. At the Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center Street, Northampton. 7 p.m. (413) 586-8686. The Berkshire View | April 2015 19 `Comedy ` Q&A with Ralphie May The comedian speaks with the Berkshire View before his upcoming show at the Colonial Theater By Tom Casey A fter bursting onto the scene as a finalist on Last Comic Standing in 2003, Ralphie May has built a successful career with his no-holds barred comedy and affable personality. In February he made the leap to Netflix with his special “Unruly,” and on April 26, he’ll be at the Colonial Theater in Pittsfield. May spoke with The View over the phone to discuss everything about Netflix impact on the comedy industry to being a family man. Tom Casey: You’re known for a wide subject range for your sets. do you find anything off limits? Ralphie May: No, not really off limits. I just have to find a way to make something funny that I really want to make funny and if I can’t find a funny angle on it I don’t have ►► The no to make my holds barred statement and comedian then go usually. comes to the No I’ve gotten colonial laughs out of 9/11 and a lot of stuff its kind of remarkable all of the stuff I’ve gotten laughs out of to be honest with you. It seems lately there has been a lot more backlash over comedians’ bits. Do you think we’ve become too sensitive over comedy and edgier bits? Oh, without a doubt, you know of course just look at the sitcoms of the 70s Sanford and Son, All in the Family, The Jefferson’s. These were racial insensitive culturally controversial and politically incorrect and we don’t have as much balls now as they had then. Comedy in general has taken it. When you are working on a bit what is the different between something that works and something that doesn’t? What goes down for making a solid routine for your bits? I don’t know it’s how you feel about it a lot of times the laughs you get are directly correlated to how much energy you put into telling the joke. You know if you put a lot into it you usually get a lot out of it. How has being a father impacted your comedy? 20 The Berkshire View | April 2015 It’s made it hard because comedy became a job when I had children. It was never a job before then. It was always a joy and now it is a job that I have to leave my children. It’s what the people pay for, they don’t pay for the jokes, they think they do but they don’t what pay their money for is me not sleeping in my bed next to my wife and my kids. How did being a chef influence your comedy and how has it come into play? I never really crossed the two except with vague reference, cooking. It showed me what I didn’t want to do. It showed me that people have to work hard in this life, really hard. A lot of times at jobs they don’t want to to make ends meet, and it’s a huge responsibility. And someone that is trying to entertain people the fact that these men and women go to work everyday can’t be lost upon me. That is why I can’t just do the minimum amount of comedy. 45 minutes is all they really pay for but I do nearly two hours because it takes my people during the day to pay for the tickets. It gives you a better perspective about the value of a dollar and what it takes to make it. You joke about your weight and body image things. Do you think our culture has changed and we are more conscious about those things? I believe so, I believe America is doing better health-wise. I know I am. It’s so easy to eat healthy now. It really is, for a while it was very difficult. Everything had sugar or fat or something extra in it and now there are so many places where you can get organic healthy food. I like it better, I feel better, I think its great that its healthier here now, Did you ever deal with bullying? No. I was always smarter, meaner Photo contributed Comedian Ralphie May will come to Pittsfield for a performance at the Colonial Theater on April 16. and funnier than anyone else in my class; and need be I could turn on a dime and knock some one the f*** down or make fun of them worse than they could me. My brother was a boxer and so I knew how to take a punch and give a punch early so no one really punched me. Did that come through in comedy? Yeah. It’s also a little bit of a I don’t give a f*** and that was the best tool I’ve ever got. When you don’t you open yourself up to more experimentation and better at what I do and I really need that. I need to be able to swing through with no doubt and no fear of failing. How has your style changed over your time in the business? America has changed in 25 years, you realized you were a lot different, that’s the nature of the beast. Have I changed? Of course, if you’re a comedian and you don’t keep on evolving then you’re done. In that similar vein, you released a Netflix special in Feburary. Do you think that is a direction that the industry is going in partnering with streaming services or self releasing? Man I hope so. My experience with Netflix was the easiest, best experience I’ve ever had in show business. Partnering with them, they asked me to cut one joke and I was like great I don’t mind as far as I was concerned. I had three other jokes basically saying the same thing so if you want just one out, no problem. It’s not like it’s Comedy Central where I have to manufacture my own vocabulary to express the thought I want to express because I can’t use certain words I can’t do it. It’s like Netflix is great and you are free to be whoever you are on there. I hope that stand-up comedy goes further on Netflix. I think you are going to get better, more quality with a no holds barred free expression. Yeah less hands tinkering with it. Yeah, they allow the people who know comedy, like the comedians, to dictate their comedy. It’s a very rare thing where other networks don’t know anything and they tell everything about what we are doing and where we are wrong and where we are making the mistake when it’s after all were the ones making people laugh in the clubs every night. We might know a touch more, than people who watch. I’ve watched football my whole life, I can’t just run out there and be Marshawn Lynch. Are you going to be doing any more work with Netflix in the future? They have another one of my specials ready to go and I have more stuff ready to go so I’m ready to knock it out. Continued on Page 22 The Berkshire View | April 2015 21 Continued From Page 21 You’ll be in Pittsfield at the Colonial, how do you feel about coming out to a place that’s more rural and a little smaller compared to the larger venues you’ve performed at? I like smaller places, to be honest with you. It’s like you all appreciate me more. Like there are so many times people come up to me when I’m in a small town and they say “Thank you for coming to our town,” “Thank you thank you so much!” and I’m always like, why the f*** wouldn’t I. You guys are great. You guys have a great theater, you’re appreciative, you’re an enthusiastic audience, why wouldn’t I want to hang out with those guys. Those are the exact people I want to be around, not the other way around. You go to New York or LA you are lucky to find anyone, because there is no word of mouth, no one talks to anyone. No one listens to the media or the radio, most of the audience is people who didn’t get into Broadway shows or didn’t want to spend the money to get into those shows and so you are left with a very picky audience. I prefer a small town, they get hyped. I want to be their destination. A lot of people can’t go out as often, only once or twice a month, so if they are going to choose me then I’m going to give them the best show I can and I’m happy to have them. I’d much rather work in Pittsfield, Massachusetts than New York any day. You’re more appreciative, and more people that want to be there. What would you tell someone trying to get involved in the business? Don’t give up. You won’t start off the funniest and you may not end up the funniest, but as long as you don’t stop you can always get better. I’m not the best comic I’ve ever heard, but at 25 years, I’ve seen so many good people quit because they didn’t and they gave up on what could have been a great dream but they quit. I never quit on me and I won’t. If you can’t believe in yourself then what are you doing? `local ` bands Website: whiskeycityband.com Email: [email protected] Patrick Gray Jr. Acoustic Rock Gray comes from a musical family; he grew up listening to his father play folk music whether around a camp fire or performing on stage to large crowds. “By 16, I was playing in local rock bands,” Gray said. “Shortly thereafter I was bitten by the recording bug, after doing a few backing tracks in a local studio.” He owns Shire Sound, a cozy project/recording studio nestled in the Berkshire Hills. His performances, which have been likened to everyone from John Mayer to Edwin McCain, can be seen throughout northern Berkshire County. Website: reverbnation.com/patrickgray Photo contribtued In February, Ralphie May released his first Netflix original special “Unruly.” The comedian said the experience was “the best experience I’ve ever had in show business.” `Live ` Music Tony Lee Thomas Indie Rock Imagine the energetic strumming of Richie Havens and the intricate finger work of Bert Jansch. Add a vocal style that summons Stevie Wonder and Martin Sexton. Then take a songwriting vocabulary as poignant as Ani DiFranco, playful as John Prine, and add commanding stage presence, then you have Tony Lee Thomas. In central Berkshire County Thomas has become a must-see performer, who is now catching on throughout New England performing both intimate and poignant solo performances and full-blown commanding vamps with his rock band, the Tony Lee Thomas Band. Website: tonyleethomas.com Phone: (413) 218-8307 Booking information: shannon@ wickedcoolproductions.com Whiskey City Gypsy Joynt The Joynt offers some of the best local musicians the Berkshires have to offer, as well as acts from across the country, and with the stage at the center of the restaurant, seating will put you right up in front of the acts for an intimate fun showcase. If performing is for you, try out your own talents with a weekly open mic. 293 Main Street, Great Barrington 413.644.8811 gypsy joyntcafe.net Milltown Tavern Newly renovated from what was once “Benny’s Restaurant” the Milltown Tavern offers the same spirit of the local spot to be for food, drinks and music. The tavern is transformed into a music venue for weekly offerings of open mics and house bands as well as performances from local artists. Come and enjoy a wide selection of craft and domestic beers, and a full bar. Awardwinning wings and burgers are just some of the tantalizing offerings you can find on their menu. 16 depot Street, Dalton 413.684.0900 Milltowntavern.com Upstate Concert Hall Originally called Northern Lights, this venue is a beloved spot to New York’s capital region concert go-ers. Catch some of the top alternative acts and old favorites as well as local showcases and more. The general admission format allows anyone to get close, and the venue offers a well stocked bar and concessions. 1208 Route 146. Clifton Park, N.Y. 518.371. 0012 upstateconcerthall.com PortSmitt’s Restaurant PortSmitt’s Restaurant, has quickly become a “Berkshire dining favorite” under the guidance and expertise, of local Chef Mike Lewis. For years, Chef Lewis has served Berkshire County residents and visitors alike. In addition to being an outstanding restaurant, PortSmitt’s Restaurant has also begun hosting great local music from bands in the Berkshires. 320 Peck Road Pittsfield 413.236. 5727 portssmittsrestaurant.com Americana This band has become a local favorite that can fill any bar or concert with a packed crowd. Led by front man Randy Cormier, joined by band mates Frank Algerio, Beth Maturevich, Dale Zavatter, Jason Webster and Tim Sears, Whiskey City is a must see act in the county. Cormier’s star quality, unique, tireless voice and infamous audience rapport have made him a crowd favorite. Katherine Winston Americana Katherine Winston is an Americana singersongwriter from Lenox who grew up listening to all kinds of music, but with a love of Shania Twain. As she has grown, her musical influences have changed many times, from country to folk, from blues to pop. Now Wilson will tell you she is very into artists such asJohnny Cash, John Paul White, The Civil Wars, Matt Corby, and The Lone Bellow. She has covered almost every genre at one point or another. However, once she started writing in the Americana genre, she felt as though she had found her fit. Website: reverbnation.com/ katherinewinston Email: [email protected] For a relaxing intimate atmosphere to take in a drink and hear some great music Mission Bar and Tapas is at the top of the list. The venue located in Pittsfield’s down town, the bar and music hall offers food throughout the day and a full bar as well as a special brunch menu. The site is host to several house bands performing weekly as well as special performances and a host of the areas top musicians. An open mic is also offered every Tuesday to showcase local undiscovered musicians. 438 North Street Pittsfield missionbarandtapas.com 22 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Fairways at the A Helsinki Hudson Get a taste of the Berkshires outside of Massachusettes. Originally a mainstay in Great Barrington, Helsinki crossed over to New York and has thrived in the city of Hudson. The venue offers both up-andcoming and established bands as well as great dining and drinks. Hudson, N.Y. 518.828.4800 helsinkihudson.com With one of the largest dance floors in the area, this location is a popular venue. They cater showers, weddings, seasonal parties, fundraisers, community events and private parties. Many nights they feature live entertainment - regional bands and DJs. They also host seasonal popular sports tailgating events with their large HD Screen Television. 303 Crane Ave Pittsfield 413.442. 3585 fairwaysatthea.com The Brick House Pub Located in the heart of Housatonic, this bar has an impressive mixture of great beer, great food, and great music to make it a can’t-miss destination. The space is also home to a series of local artists and performances from bands from across the country. 425 Park Street, Housatonic 413. 274. 0020 brickhousema.com Rock & Roll Cover Band Made up of local musicians Kevin Doolan, Dave Flynn, Bob Jones and Matt McKeever, this band is known for great classic rock like the Doobies, Steely Dan, Boz Scaggs, Chicago and more. There classic rock vibe and smooth sound has filled the Live on the Lake series and built a large following at venues throughout Berkshire County. You can find them playing at Spice Dragon, the ITAM Lodge and may other venues around Pittsfield all year long. Phone: (413) 446-5125 Website: facebook.com/ Greylock-the-band Email: [email protected] Jordan Weller & The Feathers Funk/Reggae This high-energy band meshes the laid-back grooves and rhythm of Bob Marley with the fun and flare of James Brown. Front man Jordan Weller on guitar and vocals leads the group also comprised of guitarist Rob Sanzone, Miles Lally on bass, drummer Jason Schulteis and organist Joe Rose. Their original as well their own spin on covers that dip across the musical spectrum have vaulted the band into regional favorites. You’re sure to catch them at Weller’s home base, the Gypsy Joynt, throughout the fall as well as shows springing up across the county and over the border in New York. Website: jordanwellermusic.com Phone: (413) 644-8811 Email: [email protected] TBone Daddy Trio Rock & Blues Guitarist Tyler Fairbank, bassist Jeff Link and drummer Lou Parreault form the high energy blues, funk, reggae and rock trio that draws from both old and new influences. Mixing both original material and their own unique spin on covers they have fast become a fan favorite in the region. The group has produced three albums and plays throughout the northeast at clubs, festivals and theaters Website: tbonedaddytrio.com `Music ` Berkshire Blues Rock trio T-Bone Daddy is a local music staple By Shea Garner Mission Bar + Tapas Greylock W hat better way to beat those lingering winter blues than with the blues itself? The self-proclaimed blues, funk, reggae, and rock n’ roll trio TBone Daddy has been performing throughout the Northeast for a number of years and we can consider ourselves lucky they call the Berkshires home. Tyler Fairbank (guitar, vocals), Jeff Link (bass, keyboard, percussion, vocals), and Lou Parreault (drums, percussion, vocals) recently played a gig at Bogies Restaurant and Pub in Great Barrington and have shows scheduled throughout the region in the coming weeks. Photo contributed Local blues rockers T-Bone Daddy perform a mix of Southern blues and modern rock. A deep Southern blues influence is present in their modern brand of crunchy, meandering rock n’ roll. You’ll hear a little Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Mayer, and Eric Clapton as guitars squeal and cymbals crash over the course of their three fulllength albums, Deluxe, River of Blues, and, most recently, Departure. But by using a combination of meticulously selected guitars, pedals, and amplifiers, T-Bone Daddy is able to construct a wholly original sound while making no compromises in the process. The band must really be experienced live, however. Each performance bustles with raw energy, making it hard not to move your feet to the music. One of TBone Daddy’s most popular places to play is Flavours of Malaysia on North Street in Pittsfield, where audience members can grab food, a drink, and enjoy the live stylings of the local trio in the heart of the Berkshires. Upcoming show dates include the Perfect Wife in Manchester, Vt. on May 29 from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., the Berkshire Craft Beer Festival in Pittsfield on June 6 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Theodore’s in Springfield on June 11 from 9:30 p.m. to 1 a.m., as well as an undisclosed location in the Albany area in April. For more information, visit www. tbonedaddytrio.com or “like” the band on Facebook. The Berkshire View | April 2015 23 `Theater ` Berkshire Theatre Group season features stage, music and comedy By Terry Cowgill T he Tony Award-winning sweetheart musical “Bells Are Ringing” and appearances by folk legend Arlo Guthrie and renowned comedian Robert Klein headline the new season of the Berkshire Theatre Group. The BTG is a bit of an oddball among cultural attractions in the Berkshires. It was created in 2010 by the merger of two of Berkshire County’s oldest cultural organizations: The Berkshire Theatre Festival, founded in 1928 in Stockbridge, and The Colonial Theatre, built in 1903 in Pittsfield. ►► Company BTG therefore releases schedule oversees the develfor 2015 opment, production season and presentation of theatre, music and the performing arts on multiple stages in towns, including the Fitzpatrick Main Stage and the Unicorn Theatre in Stockbridge and the 780-seat Colonial, which was reopened in 2006 following a $21 million restoration. “Our 87th season offers a mix of unforgettable musicals and classic, influential plays,” said BTG Artistic Director/CEO Kate Maguire. The centerpiece musical is “Bells Are Ringing” from July 13 to July 26. Ethan Heard is directing this romantic show about Ella, who works at an answering service, and the characters that she meets there. Heard will again be working with Kate Baldwin and Graham Rowat, as he did in last year’s “A Little Night Music.” The BTG’s 10th annual Community Theatre Production will be the iconic “Mary Poppins”. This legendary show will transport you back to your childhood, as you watch 100 children and adults from the community perform on the Colonial stage. With its 87-year history of theatre classics, The Fitzpatrick Main Stage is a venerable setting. Aaron Mark returns this year to direct Ira Levin’s nifty comedic mystery “Deathtrap.” And BTG alum Karen Allen will direct Terrence McNally’s contemporary love tale, “Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune.” “Just as she did with Berkshire Theatre Group’s Moonchildren and Ex- 24 The Berkshire View | April 2015 tremities, Karen Allen has a passion to get Frankie and Johnny’s tender story on the stage,” said Maguire. “Audiences are going to be completely enthralled in this raw, realistic love story, and I think that’s what “Frankie And Johnny In the Clair de Lune”, is — we sit there and realize how naked we all feel when we’re in love. And that’s where the heart of the play lives.” “As a whole, this season will illustrate the essence of theatre — to allow the audience to feel moved to places they have not been familiar with, and to remind them of what lies deep in their hearts,” added BTG Marketing Director Rebecca Brighenti. BTG’s 2015 lineup is also filled with leading musical artists, acclaimed comedians and community events. Appearing will be legendary rocker George Thorogood & The Destroyers, the all-American band BoDeans, folk legend Arlo Guthrie’s Alice’s Restaurant 50th anniversary tour, dynamic Celtic fiddler Natalie MacMaster and more to be announced at a later date. For community events: during school vacation week, the Colonial offers, for ages 3 and up, “Going to the Farm with Spot,” and, for fans of illusions and magic of all ages, “Bill Blagg’s 10 Illusions.” For its 10th anniversary, The Jazz Ensembles’ of Mount Holyoke College’s will feature WWLP-TV meteorologist Brian Lapis as emcee. The latter production is a benefit for BTG’s education program, BTG PLAYS. In the realm of comedy, Tony and Grammy Award-nominated comedian Robert Klein will be hitting the Colonial stage. Klein is not only a stand-up comedian but also a singer and actor. To round out the season, as part of Made in the Berkshires, celebrating Berkshire women writers, Through The Looking Glass: Musings from the Pens of Berkshire Women Writers, at The Unicorn Theatre. Also at the intimate Unicorn (122 seats) in Stockbridge will be the world premiere of “I Saw My Neighbor On the Train and I Didn’t Even Smile,” written by Suzanne Heathcote. It will be a co-production with New Neighborhood, a theater artists collaborative founded this year. Another world premiere will take place at the Unicorn with “Thoreau or, Return to Walden,” written by and starring Broadway actor and BTG alum David Adkins. The Tony award-winning classic “The Homecoming,” written by Nobel Prize-winner Harold Pinter, will feature award-winning television, film and Broadway actor Rocco Sisto and illustrious BTG alum Tara Franklin. “As always, when booking shows I’m constantly looking for talent that’s not only fresh and exciting, but that’s also affordable for the patron,” says BTG programmer Simon Shaw. “I’m beyond thrilled about the 2015 lineup, as well as the artists I am working to confirm later in the year!” For more information, visit berkshiretheatregroup.org. Photo contributed Berkshire Theatre Group strives to build on a highly successful 2014 season with even more theater, comedy and live music throughout this summer on all of their stages. `Film ` `Must ` See ‘Going Clear’ shocks and stuns HBO’s Scientology doc reveals method to madness Furious 7 (March 6) Paul Walker’s “last ride” with the “Furious” crew will surely make for another entertaining installment of the long-running franchise. By Shea Garner S cientology is a religion created by the late L. Rob Hubbard, a well-known science fiction writer from the ‘50s. Conceived from the author’s best-selling self-help book, “Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health,” the faith is based on the idea that humans are actually inhabited by the souls of immortal beings that were jettisoned through space and dropped into Earth’s prehistoric volcanoes millions of years ago. Sounds crazy right? Well the beliefs are just the beginning of the madness, according to a new documentary. “Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief” is an eye-opening HBO film from acclaimed documentarian Alex Gibney (“We Steal Secrets: The Story of Wikileaks,” “The Armstrong Lie”). It examines the titular religion from the inside out by fea►► An evening turing interviews of upsets with ex-members and uproar of the “cult,” including stars like Oscar-winning director Paul Haggis and “Chicago P.D.” actor Jason Beghe, among others. Feeling a mixture of anger, shame, and regret, the former participants discuss what first appealed to them about the religion and their subsequent realization that they were essentially being scammed. The film details the process of “auditing,” a pseudo-scientific practice where prospective members are asked to reveal past traumatic experiences and other intimate details of their personal lives in order to achieve the state of “clear.” Members are often blackmailed with this sensitive information — one of the many reasons that high-profile celebrities like Tom Cruise and John Travolta have stuck with the church for so many years. The film even goes as far as basically outing Travolta as gay — a claim substantiated by incessant tabloid rumors and even exhigh-ranking church officials. Perhaps the most disturbing aspect of “Going Clear” is constant harassment members are subjected to if they decide to leave or speak out publicly against the church’s abuses. These individuals are labeled “suppressive” by the church and attacked from all angles to dismantle their credibility. The doc claims that Nicole Kidman, during her marriage to Tom HBO’s groundbreaking new documentary “Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief,” from acclaimed filmmaker Alex Gibney, exposes the religion as a “cult” that brainwashes and abuses its membership. Cruise, was labeled “suppressive” and that members of the church were instructed to facilitate the couple’s divorce, even going as far as turning their adopted children against her. “Going Clear” is an achievement in that it really only features a combination of news clips and talking heads but still manages to weave a gripping, jaw-dropping story. These brave individuals have spoken out against the practices of the Church of Scientology, where things have gotten increasingly worse since David Miscavige took over as leader in 1987. With offices all over the world and an estimated 50,000 members still active in the church today, Scientology is still a powerful organization. But with the increasingly vocal mass exodus of former members and the shocking examination that the film provides, “Going Clear” could be the beginning of the end for the controversial religion. “Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief” is now playing on HBO and in limited theater releases. Ex Machina (April 10) Screenwriter Alex Garland’s directorial debut about artificial intelligence features rising stars Oscar Isaac and Domhnall Gleeson. Lost River (April 10) Ryan Gosling gets behind the camera for this dark fairy tale that follows a single mother’s (Christina Hendricks) quest to save her family. Paul Haggis, director of the Best Picture-winner “Crash,” discusses his experience as a former Scientologist. He has received a number of threats since leaving the organization. The Berkshire View | April 2015 25 `Weekend ` Warrior `First ` draft True nirvana over state lines By Kameron Spaulding B eep beep! The Two Roads Beer Bus is headed your way, full of delicious Two Roads Brewing refreshment in the form of four different canned styles of beer. Favorites like Ol’Factory Pils, Honeyspot Road White IPA and Lil Heaven Session IPA will be along for the ride as well as a special guest riding shotgun: A rotating Two Roads seasonal offering. Two Roads is starting the delicious journey with their spring seasonal, Rye 95. This beer is an intensely fruity rye tripel blonde ale that has been canned for the Beer Bus. Every three months, another seasonal can will get picked up by the bus: Road Jam Raspberry Wheat Ale with Lemongrass in the summer, Roadsmary’s Baby Rum Barrel-aged Pumpkin Ale in the fall and Route of all Evil Black Ale in the winter. Be on the lookout for this bus, roll- ing into all Two Roads markets soon! Two Roads opened its doors in December 2012 having earlier acquired and renovated a 100-year-old vacant, brick factory building in Stratford Ct. Its name and philosophy are inspired by the Robert Frost Poem “The Road Less Taken”—a philosophy brought to life in the beers they create using state-of-the-art brewing and packaging equipment. The news of a new local traveling beer, the Brewers Association (BA), the trade association representing small and independent American craft brewers, today released 2014 data on U.S. craft brewing growth. For the first-time ever, craft brewers reached double-digit (11 percent) volume share of the marketplace. In 2014, craft brewers produced 22.2 million barrels, and saw an 18 percent rise in volume and a 22 percent increase in retail dollar value. Retail dollar value was estimated at $19.6 billion representing 19.3 percent market share. With that kind of growth there will only be even more great beers for us all to jump into for years to come. The craft market has long tried to break 10 percent, so this really is the fall of that Berlin Wall. As the winter breaks, you can finally drink outdoors! I It finally happened. It would almost seem like spring and maybe, just maybe, someday even summer on the way for the Berkshires. There is nothing better than drinking in warm weather outside and under the sun! South County 1. Gypsy Jive 38 Bridge Street, Great Barrington 413.644.8928 If you are yearning for glory days of arcade gaming, or just looking for some fun while out on the town, check out the Gypsy Jive in Great Barrington. The latest effort from the folks at the Gypsy Joynt, the Jive is part bar, part arcade, and all fun. It sports two pool tables, an air hockey table, Skeeball, a ping pong table and about a dozen arcade machines with everything from Marvel v. Capcom to Crusin World. They boast a healthy beer selection with across-the-beer spectrum with local favorites Big Elm available as well as a full menu for both restaurant quality meals, to tapas for the late evening munchies. 2. Michaels 5 Elm St, Stockbridge 413.298.3530 Custom Tees While You Wait! Conveniently Located In The Berkshire Mall Save money! See us for youth leagues and school fundraisers! Berkshire Mall, Lanesborough, MA 413-499-1890 • www.peacetraintees.com Mon-Sat 10 am to 9 pm and Sun 11-6 [email protected] 26 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Show off your pipes with a night of karaoke at Michals in Stockbridge. With hundreds of songs and artists to choose from you’ll be sure to belt out hits from your favorite artists at this incredibly entertaining spot in the Berkshires. If singing isn’t your thing, not to worry, Michaels has a fully stocked bar with domestic and imported selections including Berkshire Brewery on tap. When it’s game time, watch your team on one of their 4 HD TVs including a new 65” to see every bone-crushing hit and mammoth home run. Michaels also has a full lunch and dinner menu for great dining and a late night dining options. 3. Moe’s 25 Frank P Consolati Way, Lee Moe’s Tavern has been recognized by The New York Times as being an essential, down-to-earth destination in the Berkshires. Moe’s Tavern T HE B ERKSHIRES O WN receives in many seasonal brews, making Moe’s one of the most unique bars in Berkshire County. Known for beer, Moe’s promises to keep the tap list updated and encourages you to follow Moe’s on your favorite social media outlet for specials, events and tap list updates. central county 1. Thistle & Mirth 44 West St, Pittsfield 413.344.4335 If you have around $5 in your pocket, then head over to Thistle and Mirth. They always have a wide selection of great draft beers on tap for only five bucks. The whole place just has the feel of the kind of place you can do some real drinking, (think Moe’s in Lee but with a full bar and that Pittsfield charm). In the first year the place has been open it has quickly caught on as a local beer drinkers’ haven and can draw a pretty good crowd on a Friday or Saturday night. The fact that it is a beer joint that has a full bar means that you can even bring along those non-brew drinkers in yourk crowd, a nice touch. 2. Sideline Saloon 434 Fenn St, Pittsfield 413.499.7337 It’s not every day in America that a bar boasts so much about winning a bar soccer league. The fact that Sideline does makes me think these guys are like those crazy English drunk fans you read about, and I love it. I mean, they still proudly say that the undefeated 2009 Sideline Saloonatics Men’s Soccer team is in the Summer Soccer League’s regular season. north county 1. PUBLIC 34 Holden St, North Adams 413.664.4444 You look like a man who parties with a touch of class. Late night, PUBLIC hosts occasional performances by local and traveling musicians of varying styles, showcasing everything from contemporary acoustic covers to high energy jazz and classic blues. Latest CD Departure Listen at tbonedaddytrio.com Available on itunes and at Wood Bros. Music 5 Cheshire Rd., Pittsfield, MA The Berkshire View | April 2015 27 `Eat ` Red Lion Inn builds local tasting tour Breakfast Served All Day Daily Specials Vegetarian Menu Goal is to showcase Berkshire food scene By Rick Forbes T he Red Lion Inn, in partnership with Berkshire Farm & Table and Find.Eat.Drink, produced a series of engaging contemporary videos aimed at the food tourism market to bring attention to the modern-day farm-to-table movement taking place in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts. On March 13, the inn released a fourminute film entitled ‘The New Berkshires Food Scene: The Red Lion Inn-sider’s Guide’ which features executive chef Brian Alberg and visits to many of the best new food stops within a 20-minute drive of the inn. The Red Lion Inn purchases more than $650,000 in local food and beverages annually and is one of the leaders in the region’s local food movement. Their commitment to the food community is expanding in tandem with the growth of their restaurants including Eat Kitchen and Bar in Pittsfield, scheduled to open in May of 2015. Farm-to table has deep roots in the Berkshires. Chefs have been partnering with farmers and food makers for more than three decades and many businesses have a strong focus on sourcing locally. ‘The New Berkshires’video tells the story of newcomers to the region’s food scene. The film can be viewed at https://vimeo.com/121481106. The film debuted as part of a promotion with Edible Manhattan/Brooklyn/East End reaching 23,000 opt-in subscribers. A story that captures the attention of the viewer through local food experiences, the film is the first in a series of promotions featuring culinary travel in the region. The concept for the video is a collaboration among The Red Lion Inn, Berkshire Farm & Table, an organization promoting the region’s food culture, and FED Guides, by Find. Eat. Drink., an online guide which showcases whereto-eat and what-to-do tips from star chefs, bartenders and sommeliers around the world. With 24-hour itineraries, an award-winning iPhone app, and on-location travel videos, FED Guides pinpoints the best restaurants, bars, coffee shops and markets for travelers. As a tie-in to the video, the inn recommends self-guidedTasteTours forfood loversto explore at their leisure and enjoy throughout the seasons. Guests can take part in a variety of complimentary or low-cost tastings ranging from charcuterie and beer to coffee and spirits. Good food in the Berkshires is available year-round and the selected foodmakers and farms represent the authentic local 28 The Berkshire View | April 2015 1245 West Housatonic St. Route 20, Pittsfield 413.442.3567 Mon-Fri 6:30am-2:30pm Sat 7am-2:30pm • Sun 7am-1:30pm Call Ahead for Convenience Monday thru Saturday 9:30 am – 7:30 pm • Closed Sunday 413-528-9720 Full Deli Board Menu Fresh Soups & Salads Store Roasted Deli Meats Fresh Prepared Deli Salads Party Platters, Sandwich Trays & Catering Chef Prepared “Grab & Go” Entrees & Soups • Tanglewood Baskets • Taking orders for Pies, Cheesecakes, Happy Cakes & More! Visit us online at www.MartyAndJims.com “Where We Build Berkshires’ Best Sandwiches” RESTAURANT 10% OFF YOUR MEAL WITH THIS AD Serving Burgers, Hotdogs, Chicken Sandwiches, Salads Shakes, Floats, Dinner Specials, Beer & Wine Photo Contributed Chef Brian Alberg has been a driving force in promoting the local food scene in the Berkshires and using it as a draw for tourism from NYC and Boston. food movement this is taking place here. The Red Lion Inn’s Taste Tours include The Meat Market in Great Barrington, a locally sourced, nose-to-tail butcher shop and café; Big Elm Brewing in Sheffield featuring five main beers and inspired seasonal styles; Berkshire Mountain Distillers in Sheffield, one of the founding members of the craft distiller movement and the Berkshires’ first legal distillery since Prohibition and Six Depot Roastery & Café in West Stockbridge, located in the oldest train station in the Berkshires. For Taste Tour details, visit www. redlioninn.com/chefs-tasting-tour/. To extend the local food experience, the inn has created a special Local Maker ’s Tasting Menu. Guests can savor Berkshire terroir on the chef’s exclusive menu, designed to highlight Berkshire makers who are featured on the Taste Tours. The three-course, prix-fixe Local Maker’s Tasting Menu is available during dinner hours with the exception of Saturdays and holidays. The menu is chef’s choice and will consist of ingredients from the Taste Tour plus other local growers and produc- ers with a vegetarian option available. The price for the three-course meal is $50 per person and does not include beverages, tax or gratuity. Guests can reserve a table for this special tasting menu in The Red Lion Inn dining room by calling 413.298.5545 or visiting OpenTable. Guests should indicate interest in the special menu on the OpenTable “Add a Special Request” section. For more information, visit redlioninn. com. Follow RLI on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For information on chef Brian Alberg, check out his bio or follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The fifth annual Ramp Fest will take place on Saturday, May 2 from 12 to 4 p.m. at Basilica Hudson, located at 110 S. Front Street. This gastronomic event will celebrate the ramp, a wild onion coveted by chefs and diners alike for its strong garlicky aroma and pungent flavor. A spring delicacy that is abundant and forageable Ramp Fest Returns in the Hudson Valley, the ramp will be at the center of original dishes created by innovative chefs from upstate New York and the big city. Ramp Fest will return to Basilica Hudson, a 19th century reclaimed industrial factory turned festival space. This year is a formal collaboration between festival organizers and Basilica Hudson, expanding the vision of the event to bring renewed focus to sustainable agriculture, community, and energy, a hallmark of past events and central to Basilica Hudson’s mission. A panel on the interconnectedness of these topics will take place during the afternoon. Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in ramp dishes by participating restaurants, a perfect introduction to the Hudson Valley’s farm-to-table foodie culture. Beer and wine will be available for purchase from Basilica’s bar, and the festival will be accompanied by live music by local rockabilly/ honky-tonk band Chops and Sauerkraut. For more information rampfesthudson. com. 49 Railroad St., Great Barrington www.StaaxBurgers.com Open 5-9 PM Thu-Sun • 413-528-5455 LOCATED INSIDE RESTAURANT The Best Breakfast In The Berkshires! Wings • Pasta • Soups • Sandwiches • Salads Steak • Chicken • Veal • Pasta • Seafood Full Bar & Several Beers On Tap • Gift Certificates Available ENTERTAINMENT SCHEDULE 4/3: Kolin Koslowski & Mike Clark 4/4: Patrick Gray 4/8: Glenn & Vinnie 4/9: Norm Schaffer 4/10: Jack Welheim 4/11: Dan Gingras 4/15: Glenn & Vinnie 4/16: Trivia 4/17: Malibu Brothers 4/18: Pete Boyd 4/22: Glenn & Vinnie 4/23: Jeff Martel 4/24: Erin Laundry 4/25: Rev Tor 4/29: Ted Murray Jazz Band 4/30: Trivia 5/1: Patrick Gray 5/2: Code Blue 370 Pecks Rd., Pittsfield • (413) 236-5727 Open Daily 11 am - Midnight • Breakfast Served All Day Lunch Served From 11:30 • Open 6 am – 3 pm 49 Railroad Street, Great Barrington, MA 413-528-5455 ENTERTAINMENT ON WEDNESDAYS FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS A elada locally crafted frozen yogurt Our frozen yogurt is made daily, on-site, with local dairy and fresh ingredients. Wednesday April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Peter Primamore Group | 7:30 pm Friday April 3, 10, 17, 24, May 1 Blue Light Trio | 7:30 pm Saturday April 4, 18 Wendy Walz & Jim Dignum | 7:30 pm Sunday April 5 Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet Saturday May 2 Todd McLeod of Bluesberry Jam | 7:30 pm NEVER A COVER CHARGE! 505 East Street, Pittsfield, MA 413.344.4126 • ayelada.com OPEN 7 DAYS • EAT IN OR TAKE OUT • ONLINE ORDERING • SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET 11-3 www.dinerainbow.com • (413) 443-0002 or (413) 443-0004 109 First Street, Pittsfield, MA The Berkshire View | April 2015 29 Drivers Wanted `enjoy ` the view Full Time & Part Time wheelchair van and sedan drivers. Must be able to work varied shifts, early mornings, weekends, etc. 6 positions part time Deadlines morning & afternoon runs. Drivers must be• 21 years of age with more than 15thdrug of thetesting month before that month’s issue 3 years of driving experience. CORI check and for all applicants. • Submitting your New starting rates and benefits. Retirees welcome toad apply! Classifieds413-528-5380 Ext. 38 Have a view worth sharing? Send your view(s) to [email protected] To place your classified ad(s), please call YOUR CONNECTION TO BERKSHIRE County buyers & sellers Fax: 413-528-9449 • Email: [email protected] `help ` wanted Are you looking for a rewarding, fulfilling career? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others? Berkshire Meadows Justice Resource Institute has the career for you. Career Opportunity Registered Nurses Housatonic, MA Requirements: Mass RN license and valid driver’s license Acceptable CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) background check required. **Sign on now and have near perfect attendance for 6 months and receive a 32 inch TV. The Harlem Globetrotters brought their patented basketball shenanigans to the Boys & Girls Club of Pittsfield on March 26. james grady Do you want to make a Justice Resource Institute difference in the lives of others? **Sign on now and have near perfect attendance for 6 months and receive a 32 inch TV. Berkshire Meadows Berkshire Meadows Acceptable CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) background check required. Maintain a valid driver’s license and ability to operate a passenger van. Available to work evenings, holidays, weekend shifts as necessary. Enjoy a positive workplace with opportunities for advancement. Eligible employees can take advantage of an excellent benefits package including x x x x x Health Dental 401k Company sponsored pension plan Tuition Reimbursement, etc… Shift: • 7AM – 3PM • 3PM – 11PM • 11PM – 7AM Starting Rate: Send resume to: Berkshire Works, Front Desk, Mechanics 160 North St., Pittsfield, MA 01201 or online at [email protected] Subject line: Mechanics Drivers Wanted Full Time & Part Time wheelchair van and sedan drivers. Must be able to work varied shifts, early mornings, weekends, etc. 6 positions part time morning & afternoon runs. Drivers must be 21 years of age with more than 3 years of driving experience. CORI check and drug testing for all applicants. New starting rates and benefits. Retirees welcome to apply! Enjoy a positive workplace with opportunities for advancement. Eligible employees can take advantage of an excellent benefits package Enjoy a positive workplace with opportunities for advancement. including Eligible employees can take advantage of an excellent benefits package including x Health x Dental Health x 401k Dental sponsored pension plan x Company 401k Reimbursement, etc… x Tuition x Company sponsored pension plan Apply: x Tuition Reimbursement, etc… 9 Apply: 9 9 9 $12.40/hr 9 9 Apply in person at 249 North Plain Road (Rt. 41), Housatonic Email: [email protected] Learn more about our dynamic programs at www.jri.org Mechanics Wanted Experienced with their own tools. Must be experienced in multiple makes and models of vehicles. Full time. Work schedule is Monday–Friday day shift, and Saturday morning for 3 to 4 hours. Must pass CORI and drug tests. Top pay for the right experience! NOW HIRING Learn more about our dynamic programs at www.jri.org 76 North Street, Pittsfield, MA 1201 Apply directly online at www.unitedpersonnel.com or call 413-449-5050 for more information. BERKSHIRE Learn more about our dynamic programs at www.jri.org `real ` estate Apply Within: 18 Oaks Street, Pittsfield, MA Monday–Friday 8–4 Send resume to: Berkshire Works, Front Desk, Mechanics 160 North St., Pittsfield, MA 01201 or online at [email protected] Subject line: Mechanics Fax your resume to Keelin at 413.528.0293, Apply in person at 249 North Plain Road (Rt. 41), Housatonic Email: Fax [email protected] resume to Keelin at 413.528.0293, Apply: 9 Fax your resume to Keelin at 413.528.0293, 9 Apply in person at 249 North Plain Road (Rt. 41), Housatonic 9 Email: [email protected] Mechanics Wanted Experienced with their own tools. Must be experienced in multiple makes and models of vehicles. Full time. Work schedule is Monday–Friday day shift, and Saturday morning for 3 to 4 hours. Must pass CORI and drug tests. Top pay for the right experience! has the career for you. Justice Resource Institute has the career for you. Direct Care Staff at our Berkshire Meadows program work with our students to teach them the skills they need for lifelong success. This includes vocational skills, academic skills, stress management skills, and competency skills. Residential counselors also work with our students to help them experience fun. Experience with children or adolescents in a residential or educational setting. Part time nurse 24 hrs with benefits Per Diem - all shifts - $33/hr Are you looking for a rewarding, fulfilling career? Are you looking for a rewarding, Do you want to make a fulfilling career? difference in the lives of others? Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work or related field preferred. High School Diploma or equivalent required. Berkshire Meadows is a residential facility for children and adults with severe intellectual disabilities and complex medical problems. We are currently seeking RNs to join our team of caring professionals on the weekend and overnight shifts and on a Per Diem basis for all shifts. Part time overnight nurse every other weekend 10 PM to 6 AM EMAIL: [email protected] Apply Within: FAX: Fax copy to 413-528-9449 18 Oaks Street, Pittsfield, MA MAIL: P.O. Box 868, Great Barrington, MA 01230 Monday–Friday 8–4 The berkshires’ alternative newspaper wheeler & taylor realty company sheffield $285,000 #00026 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 great barrington $385,000 Commercial #00853 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 great barrington $495,000 Commmercial #00575 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 sheffield $109,000 Commercial #00324 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 sheffield $120,000 #00018 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 stockbridge $295,000 #00021 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 middlefield $325,000 #00077 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 great barrington $99,000 #00857 Wheeler & Taylor 413-528-1006 413-298-3786 barnbrook realty alford $1,490,000 MLS #206252 Barnbrook Realty 413-528-4423 barnbrookrealty.com new marlborough $599,000 MLS #208734 Barnbrook Realty 413-528-4423 barnbrookrealty.com new marlborough $950,000 MLS #205404 Barnbrook Realty 413-528-4423 barnbrookrealty.com stockbridge $950,000 MLS #207267 Barnbrook Realty 413-528-4423 barnbrookrealty.com wm. brockman real estate Tyringham $1,500,000 Colonial-era farm Wm. Brockman Real Estate 413-528-4859 berkshiresforsale.com 30 The Berkshire View | April 2015 monterey $310,000 2008 private home Wm. Brockman Real Estate 413-528-4859 berkshiresforsale.com great barrington $729,000 Beautiful contemporary Wm. Brockman Real Estate 413-528-4859 berkshiresforsale.com monterey $275,000 Antique colonial Wm. Brockman Real Estate 413-528-4859 berkshiresforsale.com The Berkshire View | April 2015 31 Mattress Sale Mattress Sale Sale Full Set Queen Set $349 ss Queen Set e r t t a in M ng at w T King Set King Set arti St$n/a $399 $449 $699 $99 Avalon Debonaire Twin Set ress ttSet a Full M g at Twin in Start Twin Set Full Set $469 Queen Set King Set $579 Queen 99 Set $ King Set $249 $299 $349 $n/a Backsence Buckingham Twin Set $329 Full Set $399 Queen Set $449 s s Q ueenattre$699 King Set M Se TSwtianrtritning atst Sta g at $2$ 999 $599 $899 Debonaire $449 $499 $799 Full Set Set QQueen ueen Sets StKing arting Set at $299 MemoryTouch Kensington Euro Sunset $399 Full Set Twin $449 Set Queen Set $499 Full Set King Set $799 Twin Set Queen Set King Set MemoryTouch Sunset Twin Set $469 Twin Set $499 Full Set $579 Full Set $599 Queen Set $599 Queen Set $699 King Set $1099 $499 Qu een $599 Starti Sets ng $699at $299 $999 King Set $999 Anniversary King Set $899 Hybrid Trust Steinback Euro Silver Euro $999 $699 Twin Set Twin Set $649 Twin Set Anniversary FullTrust Set $1099 Full Steinback Set Full Set $749 Euro$799 Hybrid Silver Euro Twin Set $999 Twin Set Queen Set $1299 Queen Set $699 $849 Queen SetTwin Set $799 $649 $1099 $799 Full Set Full Set $749 Full Set Set $1799 King SetSet $849 $1149 QueenKing Set $1299 King Set Queen $1099 Queen Set $799 King Set $1149 King Set $1799 bedding • furniture bedding • furniture home entertainment home entertainment Delivery and Removal Available Berkshire Mall, Lanesboro, MA • 413-445-8800 32 The Berkshire View | April 2015 Mon - Sat 10am - 9pm • Sunday 11am - 6pm
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