our berkshiretimes magazine, april-may 2016

Our BerkshireTimes™

Local Events | Art & Culture | Vibrant Living | Home & Garden

April-May 2016 vol 25 (36) Complimentary

Phone: (413) 441-6990 [email protected]

Designed & Handcrafted in the Berkshire Mountains

Berkshire Mountain Design Build, LLC

Complete Design Services Complete Building Services

www.berkshiremountaindesignbuild.com

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Contents April - May 2016


This publication is printed with soy ink on environmentally friendly Forest Stewardship Council® certified paper.

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All content in Our BerkshireTimes™ is accepted in good faith. We do not necessarily advocate and cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by our authors, illustrators, and advertisers. We reserve the right to refuse advertising for any reason. For printing errors of the publisher's responsibility, liability is limited to the cost of the ad space in which it first appeared. Unless otherwise noted, we use a Creative Commons License in place of a standard copyright.

Our BerkshireTimes magazine was first published in 2009 and is enjoyed by community members and visitors alike. We distribute bimonthly (six times per year) starting each February. Most of our editorial content is contributed by our readers. We welcome your ideas, articles, and feedback, and encourage you to submit original material for consideration through our website. To find out more about advertising and submitting articles, see our website at left, and join our mailing list to receive our free eNewsletter.


Peonies and Common Yellowthroat Warbler

by Koo Schadlerwww.kooschadler.com

PUBLISHERSKathy I. [email protected]

Kevin J. [email protected]_______________

EDITORIALKathy I. [email protected]

Rodelinde [email protected]

Copyeditor/ProofreaderRodelinde Albrecht_______________

DESIGNMagazine Design/LayoutKathy I. Regan_______________

TO ADVERTISE CONTACTAccount RepresentativesKevin J. [email protected]

Sheri Ann [email protected]

Our BerkshireGreen, Inc.P.O. Box 133, Housatonic, MA 01236Phone: (413) [email protected]_______________

COVER ILLUSTRATION

Peonies and Common Yellowthroat Warblerby Koo Schadler, Artistwww.kooschadler.com

Koo Schadler’s egg tempera paintings are in more than 400 private and public collections worldwide. She is a master painter of the Copley Society, a contributing

editor to The Artists’ Magazine, and a popular painting instructor who has taught workshops around the US and abroad for 18 years. Koo grew up in Litchfield, CT, and has fond memories of visiting the Berkshires. For more information visit www.kooschadler.com.

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com April | May 2016

Egg tempera on true gesso panel.10¼” x 10¾” (17” x 17½” x 1⅝”)

art, culture & entertainmentLENOX RHUBARB FESTIVALEVENTS

home & gardenTHE ART OF FENG SHUIBUSINESS SPOTLIGHTSAWESOME LAWN CARE TIPS

spring gift guide

fashion & beautyDRESS WITH FINESSE

food & drinkSEED CRACKERSCRACKER RECIPERICE PUDDING RECIPE

mother’s day specialBUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

animal talkKITTEN SEASON IS COMINGON THE MOVE

education & workshopsWHY DO OUR CHILDREN DO WHAT THEY DO?

health & wellnessTURN UP THE SPICEBUSINESS SPOTLIGHTDON’T CATCH A CAVITY

mind & spiritFEEDBACK: THE MESSENGER OF MIND, BODY, AND SOULTROUBLE SLEEPING?

featured advertisersTHANK YOU!

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art, culture & entertainment

Celebrate Our Forty-third Year!

Wonderful ThingsLargest Selection of Yarns

and Unique Handcrafted Gifts in the BerkshiresGift Certificates S Free Knitting Lessons

Open Mon-Sat 9:30-5, Sun 12-4Harry and Debbie Sano

232 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230(413) 528-2473 • www.wonderful-things.com

Lenox Rhubarb Festival & Rhubarb Chili Contest

● Rhubarb Chili ● Strawberry Rhubarb Pies● A Variety of Rhubarb Desserts

● Rhubarb Soda ● Rhubarb Tea & Juice● Rhubarb Plants & Fresh Stalks ● Rhubarb Recipe Booklets

Library Park, Rain or Shine18 Main Street, Lenox, MA

www.lenoxrhubarbfestival.com

Saturday, May 28, 10am-3pm

T he Rhubarb Festival began in 2013 to celebrate rhubarb. Suzanne W Pelton, a native of Lenox, grew up eating rhubarb from the backyard: stewed rhubarb and strawberry

rhubarb pie. “The fruit (actually it’s a vegetable) is loaded with nutrition (17 vitamins and minerals), and is low in calories and high in fiber. Just what we’re being encouraged to eat more of.

“With enough sun it just grows in Western Mass. You can’t kill it unless you mow over it repeatedly,” Suzanne says. “And it waits patiently to be harvested without getting too big or too tough like cucumbers and string beans. It’s the perfect homegrown vegetable. How is it that cranberries became a national dish but rhubarb made so little impact? I’m learning ways to use it in savory cooking. The rhubarb chili at the Festival is a way to introduce people to that notion. We’ll have a couple of other savory rhubarb items too.”

“Most people don’t make pies anymore,” says Pelton. “They remember loving their grandmother’s or mother’s strawberry rhubarb pie. As children, they ate stalks of rhubarb dipped in

sugar. Since the older generation has passed away, they can’t find homemade rhubarb pies. There’s a big hole in them where rhubarb pie is supposed to be. The Rhubarb Festival aims to fill that void.”

The third annual Lenox Rhubarb Festival will take place on Saturday, May 28, 2016, from 10 to 3, rain or shine, at 18 Main Street in Lenox, MA. Admission is free and there’s plenty of parking. The Festival features a tasting contest of unique rhubarb chilis created by Lenox restaurant chefs. The winning restaurant will be announced at 2pm. Participating Lenox restaurants include Café Lucia, Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort, Firefly New American Bistro, Olde Heritage Tavern, Haven Café & Bakery, and Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health.

An assortment of sweet and savory rhubarb creations from local bakers will be offered for sale, including handmade strawberry rhubarb pies, cupcakes, turnovers, whoopie pies, pinwheels, and savory rhubarb hand pies. Participating bakers include The Sweetish Baker, Sweet & Savoury on Main, Berkshire Bakes, Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, Trinity Church, Mary Zabian, and Kimball Farms.

Enjoy a bottle of Raspberry Rhubarb Soda to wash it all down, and pick up some fresh local rhubarb and a recipe booklet so you can enjoy this nutritious, organic, and sustainable vegetable at home. Scott Harrington of Lenox, horticulturalist and local rhubarb expert, will be there to answer questions about rhubarb. He will have plants for sale and advice on growing this versatile vegetable. For vendor updates, photographs, and information about participation, go to www.lenoxrhubarbfestival.com.

Lenox Rhubarb FestivalSATURDAY, MAY 28, 2016

www.lenoxrhubarbfestival.com

● Rhubarb chili contest

● Sweet & savory delights

● Rhubarb plants

● Rhubarb pies

● Rhubarb recipes

● Whoopie pies

● And more!


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art, culture & entertainment

The Hotchkiss School11 Interlaken Road, Lakeville, ct 860.435.4423 | hotchkiss.org/arts

Free programs September through July visit our website for listings ~ all are welcome

Summer at MontessoriSessions for ages 3-6 and 6-14 yearsVisit BerkshireMontessori.org for the full summer program descriptions and to register!

EGG TEMPERAPAINTING

A Comprehensive Guide to Painting Egg Tempera

by Koo Schadler

KOO SCHADLEREgg Tempera Paintings& Silverpoint Drawings

Alstead, NH (603) 835-2937 www.kooschadler.com

Buy the Book at www.kooschadler.com

Join Koo for Summer and Fall Workshops in Painting and Composition.

For All Levels from Beginner to Advanced.See Website for More Information.

COMMUNITY GARDENJoin us April 23 at the Great Barrington Fair Grounds

Great news Great Barrington! The Great Barrington Fair Grounds has been given generous support by Berkshire

Co-op Market and Guido’s Fresh Marketplace to create a model community garden with the primary focus of education and community outreach. There will be workshops, lectures, and expert advisors throughout the season, working hands-on with anyone interested in growing their own food regardless of income or ability. Join us on Earth Day, Saturday, April 23, from 10am to 3pm at the GBFG for signup. Contact [email protected].

LASAGNA DINNER TO BENEFIT PURRADISE

When: Thursday, April 14, 2016, 5:30 to 8pmWhere: Crissey Farm, 426 Stockbridge Rd, Great Barrington, MACost: $12 Adults, $6 ChildrenSenior early bird special, $10, 4:30 to 5:30pm. Prize raffle, 50/50 raffle, and cash bar.

April | May 2016 www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

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T he Merriam-Webster dictionary defines Feng Shui as: a Chinese system for positioning a building and the objects within a building in a way that is

thought to agree with spiritual forces and to bring health and happiness. This ancient practice is based on the flow of wind (feng) and water (shui), two elements that swirl, move, and circulate around the world. The essence of energy is called chi or life force, something all living organisms are composed of. You may not have thought that there is a life force within the walls of your home but many people have believed there is for many centuries and in many cultures, not just Asian.

I’ve been in homes that have had what I call an awkward flow which is more architectural than energy and I’ve been in homes that seem to have a dark or negative energy. I’m not saying I have metaphysical powers, but I do feel like I’m an intuitive person. You might think that to me, a cluttered home has negative energy, but that’s not true. I’ve been in beautiful homes as neat as a pin that seem to have an odd vibe and cluttered homes that have felt like the homiest of homes.

There are multiple facets of practicing Feng Shui in a home, starting from the main entryway, through every room and every exit. One of the most elemental ideas is that no window or door is blocked with furniture or artwork so that energy can flow freely. Windows shouldn’t be cracked, stuck, leaky, or dirty. Such things block chi or cloud your ability to see opportunities and new experiences coming your way.

There are all sorts of dos and don’ts for bedrooms and most of them make complete sense. The placement of the bed seems important but more so that there isn’t anything underneath the bed, blocking energy. This is a tough one as so many people need to utilize that space for storage; it’s one of the first spaces I look at in a bedroom to see how it’s being utilized. I knew that having a work desk, paperwork, and bill paying in the bedroom was a bad idea before I knew one thing about Feng Shui. Bedrooms are for relaxation, rejuvenation, and romance. If there is technology in the bedroom, it should be covered; experts even say to have exercise equipment elsewhere.

According to Chinese tradition, plant life welcomes prosperity, good luck, purification, and growth. Plants can actually help to cleanse the air. Some plants that seem to be particularly good at it include the Lady Palm (Rhapis Excelsa), English Ivy (Hedera Helix), Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata “Bostoniensis”) and the Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum). I wish I could practice what I preach but I’m notoriously inept when it comes to caring for houseplants. I finally gave up trying, which suited me as all I kept feeling was guilt about killing off lovely little green life forms.

Clutter clearing is a big deal in Feng Shui practices because the overwhelming amount of stuff that we own can be sucking our energy away from the few things that we truly love. If we are energetically connected to everything surrounding us, more clutter means more outward-going energy and goodness knows, we rarely have spare energy to waste. Clutter hidden in closets and behind closed doors still counts as energy that is being sapped. Clutter is blocking, stagnant, jumbled, and welcomes chaos. Clearing spaces makes it easier to focus on simplicity and allows air to circulate, reviving chi.

Lastly, lighting is something that allows harmony, balance, guidance, and warmth. This doesn’t mean you have to have every light blazing away in every room but it does mean that lighting can be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. Work and reading areas should have a combination of direct and indirect lighting. Instead of one bright overhead light in a room, use multiple light sources at different heights for a warm glow that invites positive energy to circulate throughout. There is a new trend in Himalayan salt lamps, which are large blocks or chunks of salt (there are fakes that aren’t made with true Himalayan salt) with a bulb inside. The salt emits negative ions that neutralize positive ions to cleanse the air. They are said to boost energy, and if nothing else, they are pretty!

~ Julie Ulmer is a professional organizer who founded Minding Your Manor in 2003. Julie is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers, the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, and the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce. Please visit her

By Julie Ulmer

The Art of


home & garden

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413-445-5678800-707-1441

Licensed•Bonded•Insured•

800-707-1441

www.ServiceMasteroftheBerkshires.com

EmergencyWater&FireRemediation

● Emergency Water Damage Remediation● Emergency Fire, Soot and Smoke Remediation● House Wide and Post Construction Cleaning ● Floor Maintenance● Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning ● Animal Debris and Odor Clean Up ● Mold and Odor Remediation ● Sewer and Septic Clean Up● We Will Use Green Cleaning Products Upon Request

ServiceMASTER oftheBerkshires ServiceMASTER ofColumbiaCounty,NY

3 Westview Road, Pittsfield, MA

EMERGENCY ON CALL SERVICE24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK

Locally Owned and Operated.

Certified&Trained Technicians With More Than 15 Years Experience.

ServiceMaster of the Berkshires has been proudly, confidently, and professionally serving Berkshire County residents for more

than 20 years. While we are primarily a disaster restoration company, which simply means we clean up after water and fire damage, we also do so much more.

• We detail clean new homes after the contractor has finished (post construction cleaning). • We detail clean homes for buyers purchasing an existing home. • We detail clean homes for existing homeowners looking for that one-time big cleaning. • We professionally steam clean carpets and upholstery – in your home. • We clean out and clean up homes in hoarding situations.

We are not a janitorial company and we are not a housekeeping company, we are the cleaning professionals you need to handle the job! If you are overwhelmed with the task, we can help! If you don’t have the time, we can do the job! If the unexpected occurs, we can help!

We are the professionals to call for your home’s large cleaning needs in addition to disaster restoration.

more than you expect WE ARE NOT JUST A DISASTER RESTORATION COMPANY

Berkshire Fabric & Wallpaper274 Wahconah St., Pittsfield, MA

(413) 442-4420Open daily 10-5:30, Sat 10-4, closed Sun

Window TreatmentsHunter Douglas ● Graber ● Norman Shutters

Upholstery, Draperies, Fabric & Wallpaper

Dress Up Your Windows

Window TreatmentsHunter Douglas • Graber • Comfortex • Norman Shutter

For all Your Decorating NeedsUpholstery, Draperies, Fabric & Wallpaper

Berkshire Fabric & Wallpaper274 Wahconah St., Pittsfield, MA

413-442-4420Open daily 10-5:30, Sat 10-4, closed Sunday

www.berkshirefabricwallpaper.com

When you have a home decorating project to do, but you aren�t sure where to begin, begin at Berkshire Fabric

& Wallpaper. We understand that you want your home to be a wonderful place, a reflection of you. We�ll always give you friendly service, topnotch advice, and ideas galore. So whether it�s one pillow or a complete house transformation, together we�ll select the perfect fabric, wallpaper, and window treatments and help you get your project done.

Our custom services include upholstery, slipcovers, window treatments, decorative pillows, cushions, shades, blinds, shutters, and more. We’ll install our window treatments and pick up and deliver upholstered pieces. Our fabric brands include Kravet, Duralee, Robert Allen, Carole, Thibaut, eStout, Tempotest, PKaufmann Sunbrella, Greenhouse, Barrow, Bartson, Textiles, Comersan, Belle Maison, Pindler & Pindler, Scalamandré, Ralph Lauren, Cowtan & Thibaut, and many more. Wallpaper brands include Thibaut, Wallquest, Carey Lind, York, Brewster, Seabrook, Paper & Ink, Anna French, Raymond Waites, Pierre Frey, Waverly, Jamia Brown, Chesapeake, Scalamandré, Ralph Lauren, and more. Shades and shutters brands include Hunter Douglas, Graber, Kirsch, Norman Shutters, and more.

transform your home WE CAN TAKE CARE OF ALL YOUR DECORATING NEEDS


A SMART CHOICE

Choosing the right insurance is about more than just getting

the quickest quote. For more than 60 years, FARM FAMILY

has provided reliable service and knowledgeable advice from

local agents who take the time to listen and understand your

unique needs.

93661

30 STOCKBRIDGE RDGT BARRINGTON, MA 01230-1775

[email protected]

Agent

413.528.1710

ROBERT SINOPOLI

American National is a group of companies writing a broad array of insurance products and services. Products and services may not beavailable in all states. Terms, conditions and eligibility requirements will apply. Life insurance and annuity products are issued throughAmerican National Insurance Company, Galveston, Texas; or Farm Family Life Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York. Property andcasualty products and services are made available through Farm Family Casualty Insurance Company, Glenmont, New York.

AUTO ● HOMEOWNERS ● BUSINESS ● LIFE ● FARM / RANCH INSURANCE

You work hard to make sure your loved ones have a comfortable life. How would they fare financially if you weren’t there to provide for them? Without your

income to support them, could your family pay bills, make mortgage payments, cover debts, or fund a college education? Life insurance is one of the best ways to protect the people you love. Sinopoli Insurance Agency can help you prepare for every stage of life: affordable term insurance if you’re just starting out, flexible universal and whole life insurance policies tailored for your growing family, and competitive annuities to help you fund your retirement years. And if you became sick or injured, there’s disability income insurance to help you make ends meet until you can return to work. Backed by our steadfast focus on personal

service and a long tradition of trust, we’re big enough to meet your coverage needs, yet small enough to consider ourselves your neighbor. In short, we’re local people helping local people. No one knows what the future holds. But with the right amount of life insurance, you can be confident that your family will be financially secure, even when you are no longer there to provide for them.

It is our privilege to serve the insurance needs of local individuals, families, and business owners. Getting the right insurance coverage is an important part of protecting your investments, your lifestyle, and your family’s financial future. When you meet with us, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about your current policies and perhaps learn about additional coverage, features, or discounts you are eligible to receive.

Choosing the right insurance is critical. As business owners, we understand that a one-size-fits-all policy doesn’t make sense for individuals, families, or businesses. You know insuring your future means more than just getting the quickest quote or finding the cheapest price. As we get to know each other, we will work with you to put together coverage that makes sense for you.

WE'RE LOCAL PEOPLE HELPING LOCAL PEOPLE

Sinopoli Insurance Agency

With FARM FAMILY, you’ll get an agent who has the know-

how and products to help you properly manage your family’s

risks. An open appointment book, along with options for

home, auto and life coverage, means you can feel good that

you’re getting more an ally than just an agent.

93674.V1.12.2015

30 STOCKBRIDGE RDGT BARRINGTON, MA 01230

[email protected]

Agent

413.528.1710

DOMINIC SINOPOLI


http://www.farmfamily.com/agent/dominicsinopoli

A SMART CHOICE


the quickest quote. For more than 60 years, FARM FAMILY

has provided reliable service and knowledgeable advice from

local agents who take the time to listen and understand your

unique needs.

93661

30 STOCKBRIDGE RDGT BARRINGTON, MA 01230-1775

[email protected]

Agent

413.528.1710

ROBERT SINOPOLI


With FARM FAMILY, you’ll get an agent who has the know-

how and products to help you properly manage your family’s

risks. An open appointment book, along with options for

home, auto and life coverage, means you can feel good that

you’re getting more an ally than just an agent.

93674.V1.12.2015

30 STOCKBRIDGE RDGT BARRINGTON, MA 01230

[email protected]

Agent

413.528.1710

DOMINIC SINOPOLI


http://www.farmfamily.com/agent/dominicsinopoli

http://agent.farmfamily.com/gt_barrington/robert_sinopoli http://www.farmfamily.com/agent/dominicsinopoli


the quickest quote. For more than 20 years, Sinopoli Insurance

Agency has provided reliable service and knowledgeable advice

from local agents who take the time to listen and understand

your unique needs.

With Sinopoli Insurance Agency, you’ll get an agent who has the

know-how and products to help you properly manage your family’s

risks. An open appointment book, along with options for home,

auto, and life coverage, means you can feel good that you’re

getting more an ally than just an agent.

● Life Insurance ● Homeowners Insurance ● Retirement Planning● Disability Income Insurance ● Personal Umbrella Insurance● Renters & Renter Owners Insurance ● Personal Auto Insurance

Ask us about . . . ● Farm Insurance ● Equine Insurance ● General Liability● Commercial Auto Insurance ● Business Owners Insurance● Commercial/Farm Umbrella Insurance ● Workers Compensation

Ask us about . . .


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home & garden

AUTO ● HOMEOWNERS ● BUSINESS ● LIFE ● FARM / RANCH INSURANCE

THE SMART SOLUTION FOR DOING LAUNDRY

● No Need for Detergent or Hot Water ● Makes Clothes Softer ● Warranty● Clean Without Bleach ● Earth Friendly● Whiter Whites ● Brighter Colors● Made in the USA ● No Maintenance● Better for Sensitive Skin

383 North Street, Pittsfield, MA ● www.aerusonline.com(413) 442-1544 | (413) 743-0985 | (802) 442-9560

Sisters Used Furniture

402 Park Street, Rte 183Housatonic, MA 01236

www.sistersusedfurniture.com

Spring Hours: Thurs-Sat 11-5, Sun 12-4

Small Shop, Big Savings!

Always Buying! (413) 274-9900

We're back and open for the season on Friday, May 6, 2016!

clean energySERVING THE BERKSHIRES SINCE 1985

Berkshire Photovoltaic Services (BPVS) have installed hundreds of safe, efficient, and durable photovoltaic systems.

They favor photovoltaic components manufactured in our region to support the local economy and because these modules, mounts, and power electronics are the best in the world. BPVS is fully licensed and insured for commercial, institutional, and residential PV systems. For additional savings, ask them about income tax credits available for renewable energy systems.

affordable furnishingsOUR GOAL IS SIMPLE: GOOD QUALITY AT A FAIR PRICE

Sisters Used Furniture was created out of a need for affordable furnishings in the south county area. Our goal is

simple: good quality at a fair price. Our inventory changes daily, which makes it fun week in and out. We’re open seasonally, from May until November. Whatever you are furnishing, we welcome you to our store. Also follow us on Facebook regularly to see new inventory. Call us at (413) 274-9900 if you are looking to sell . . . and yes, we deliver! www.sistersusedfurniture.com.

Since 1985, recognized for careful designs, proven components and high quality workmanship,

BPVS solar electric systems are user friendly, efficient and reliable.

Member: American Solar Energy Society, Northeast Sustainable EnergyAssociation, Solar Energy Business Association of New England,

Solar Energy Industries Association.

Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, BPVS46 Howland Avenue, Adams, MA 01220

Tel. 413-743-0152 • www.bpvs.comMA LIC #'s HIC131996, CSL 73150

r r







r r

Berkshire Photovoltaic Services, BPVS

46 Howland Avenue, Adams, MA 01220413-743-0152 • www.bpvs.com

MA LIC #’s HIC131996, CSL 73150







r r

laundry proAERUS BRINGS YOU A SMART SOLUTION FOR LAUNDRY

Aerus turned to nature to come up with a better way to do laundry. Laundry Pro is better for your laundry, better for your family,

better for the environment . . . and it will help you save money too. Laundry Pro incorporates the power of our revolutionary, exclusive ActivePure Technology with the cleaning action of activated oxygen to lift dirt and grime away from the fibers of fabric and prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Laundry Pro is an amazingly effective cold water laundry system for residential use.

Native Habitat Restorationrestoring balance to nature

Wetlands WoodlandsMeadows Fields

Invasive Plant Control Pollinator HabitatForestry Mowing Wetland Restoration

(413) 358-7400www.nativehabitatrestoration.com

Licensed in MA CT NY VT

land managementWE OFFER A VARIETY OF SPECIALIZED SERVICES

Native Habitat Restoration, with more than 30 years experience, offers private and public landowners a variety of services

specializing in invasive plant control, brush management, forestry mowing, pollinator habitats, and replanting. Our women-owned company helps you complete all aspects of restoration projects, from planning and permitting to grant writing and implementation with appropriate management tools, including organic options. We specialize in restoring wetlands, woodlands, meadows, and floodplains.


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$3,548

*Starting price on X300 Select lawn tractors is $2,999.00. Manufacturer's suggested price. Taxes, freight, setup, and delivery not included. Optional accessories and attachments not included. Equipment, models and prices may vary by dealer. Product options and accessories may not be available in all regions. The engine horsepower and torque information are provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison pur-poses only. Actual operating horsepower and torque will be less. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s website for additional information.

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PITTSFIELD LAWN & TRACTOR1548 W. Housatonic Street, Pittsfield, MA

(413) 443-2623 ● www.PLT.com

We know mowing your lawn isn’t a thought-provoking task. In fact, some of us enjoy mowing our lawns, while others think of it as a chore. But did you know that how

you mow your lawn can really affect the world around you? It can, and we at Pittsfield Lawn & Tractor want to help you understand how and provide you with some useful tips

A recent study by Briggs & Stratton, the world’s largest maker of gasoline-powered engines for outdoor power equipment, found that almost 70 percent of people in America say they are prepared to do more to aid the environment, but don’t know how to start taking action. In response to the survey, they started a lawn mower tune-up campaign and found out that a tuned gasoline-powered lawn mower can reduce its emissions by as much as 50 percent more than an untuned engine. Running an untuned lawn mower for an hour can be equivalent to driving a car 100 miles on the highway; those emissions add up. Briggs & Stratton suggests that to reduce emissions, a spring tune-up can do wonders, save fuel, and prolong the life of the mower.

Following are our tips to help you mow your lawn like a pro, cut down on time, and more importantly reduce emissions.• Mow an outline of your yard first. Go around 1½ times before

you start to do rows. This will give you ample room away from edges and obstacles and will save the headache of backing up the mower on every swipe. It also provides a professional-looking finish.• Don’t cut your grass too short, particularly for cool season grasses. Higher height usually provides for a deeper root system, looks better, and is less likely to have weeds invade, particularly crabgrass.• When mowing, remove only a third of the blade with each cutting, except for the first mowing of the season, when it’s okay to remove more. You can safely leave clippings that will quickly decompose and add nutrients back into the soil. Grass clippings do not add to thatch buildup as grass blades are made up of 75 percent water.• Have your blades sharpened several times during the mowing season. Sharp blades cut the grass cleanly and help mulch clippings into small pieces, which break down quickly. • Don’t forget to change your mower’s oil at least once during the mowing season. For brand new mowers, change the oil after five hours of operation during the initial break-in period. • In the spring, don’t use old gas unless you properly used a fuel stabilizer. It can cause a number of problems. It’s better to use fresh gasoline to begin the new mowing season.

awesome lawn care tips PITTSFIELD LAWN & TRACTOR CAN HELP YOU MOW LIKE A PRO

home & garden

home & garden


11

Freund’s Farm Market Garden Center & Bakery

Spring has Sprung . . .

What are you growing this year?We have everything your garden needs.

(860) 824-0650 ● www.freundsfarmmarket.com

CowPots ● Hart’s Seeds ● Moo Doo

Beautiful Hanging Baskets for Mother’s Day

Annuals ● Perennials ● Vegetables

Spring Hours 9am-5pm Daily

324 Norfolk Road East Canaan, CT

Homemade pastries to snack on while you peruse the greenhouse and garden center!

It began with just a bushel of farm-fresh sweet corn propped on a door roadside in the 1960s. The Freunds’ five kids used

the earnings from the sweet corn sales to pay towards their college tuitions. Fifty years later, Theresa Freund has turned that “farm stand” into a year-round farm market, bakery, and garden center called Freund’s Farm Market, with offerings that expand far beyond sweet corn! The market greenhouse is full with seedlings and transplants ready for April showers and May flowers.

As you enter the family’s farm market, a towering display of CowPots sits prominently front and center. When asked, Theresa is excited to talk about the other business that takes place on the farm: manufacturing seed starting pots from their cows’ composted manure. There are 12 styles of CowPots made on the farm and available for purchase at Freund’s Farm Market, ready to grow anything from vegetable seedlings to dahlia tubers and bulbs. CowPots allow for unrestricted root growth, reduce transplant shock, and break down within weeks of planting.

Whether you’re a gardener with a green thumb or a beginner needing a lot of advice, Theresa will share growing ideas to make your garden bloom this summer!

cow . . . pots? BIODEGRADABLE, NATURAL, SUSTAINABLE & RECYCLED

● Gazebos ● Benches ● Picnic Tables ● Sheds ● Swings ● Children’s Gym Sets

Visit us on Route 8 in Cheshire, MA(413) 743-9964 ● Toll Free (866) 411-7433

www.berkshiresheds.com

All the Fun Summer Stuff Your Yard Could Ask For!

GazebosSwingsSheds

Benches

Route 8 Cheshire, MA(413) 743-9964

Toll Free 1-866-411-7433 (shed)www.berkshiresheds.com

Picnic TablesChildren’sGym Sets



Toll Free (866) 411-7433www.berkshiresheds.com

All the Fun Summer Stuff Your Yard Could Ask For!

GazebosSwingsSheds

Benches


Toll Free 1-866-411-7433 (shed)www.berkshiresheds.com

Picnic TablesChildren’sGym Sets



Toll Free (866) 411-7433www.berkshiresheds.com

● Gazebos ● Benches● Sheds ● Picnic Tables● Swings ● Play Sets● Chicken Coops● One & Two Bay Sheds● One & Two Bay Garages

made in the usaWE TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN OUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICE

Sheds-N-Stuff offers an extensive line of finely crafted Amish-made products including sheds, gazebos, playhouses, gym sets,

doghouses, barns, and garages. They also sell wood lawn furniture such as picnic tables, benches, glider tables, bridges, wishing wells, and arbors. Sheds-N-Stuff has been a local family owned and operated business for 25 years. They take great pride in their products and service, they have the ability to customize almost any project to your specific needs, and they deliver!

Backyard Heirlooms

525 Main StreetGreat Barrington, MA

413.528.3095Follow us on Facebook

Architectural Sculptures Functional Garden Art ` Tree Houses

Custom Birdhouses ` Kid Scapes

Open Sat & Sun from [email protected]

community gardenGREAT NEWS GREAT BARRINGTON AT THE FAIR GROUNDS!

T he Great Barrington Fair Grounds has been given generous support by Berkshire Co-op Market and Guido’s Fresh

Marketplace to create a model community garden with the primary focus of education and community outreach. There will be workshops, lectures, and expert advisors throughout the season, working hands-on with anyone interested in growing their own food regardless of income or ability. Come join us on Earth Day, Saturday, April 23, from 10am to 3pm at the GBFG for signup. Contact [email protected].

12

spring gift guide

www.OurBerkshireTimes.com

DECORATE

The Hummingbirds Are Here! / Wild Birds Country Store This beautiful faceted glass feeder will attract ruby-throated hummingbirds to your

yard. We have a huge selection of items for your hummingbird sanctuary. This artistic handcrafted design is one of our collection of 26 different styles of hummingbird feeders. We even have a feeder that will allow hummingbirds to eat out of your hand! We have hummingbird chandeliers, swings, ant moats, poles, hangers, nectar, and brushes for cleaning your feeders. Come and see why we are your hummingbird experts. Visit Wild Birds Country Store at 783 South Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. (413) 644-9007, www.wild-birdstore.com. $41.99

ATTRACT

Chocolate Gift Box / Chocolate Springs Treat your mom, friends, loved ones, coworkers (and yourself!) to a decadent

chocolate gift box assortment this spring. Chocolate Springs is a European-style chocolate and dessert café with decades of experience in crafting the finest handmade bonbons. Milk and dark chocolate, truffles, amazing ganache, and award-winning hot chocolate are made fresh every day using only the finest seasonal and organic ingredients whenever possible. Buy online or visit Chocolate Springs Café in person at 55 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, MA. (413) 637-9820, www.chocolatesprings.com. $5-$50

TREAT

SHOP LOCAL

SPRING IS IN THE AIR!

giftguide

Dimitri Planters / Campo De' FioriDimitri is a charming yet elusive character who

generally dwells somewhere at the edge of the garden and the Wild Wood. He’s rarely seen – usually at dusk if one is lucky. However, after imbibing too much wine, he allowed that we might affix his image on some of our aged terra cotta planters. Hence, Campo’s new offerings. Dimitri is an odd fellow, but then, so are we. View our online store or visit Campo De’ Fiori in person at 1815 North Main Street, Sheffield, MA. Mention this ad now through April 30th and receive a 15% discount. (413) 528-9180, www.campodefiori.com. $28.75 to $98.75

Beautifully Nude, But Not Naked / Face HavenBare skin is better! Now you can get the No Makeup Look

with makeup that is good for your skin with the new Skin Is In! collection. Treat yourself to a naturally beautiful, radiant matte look with a neutral swirl of Flawless PurePressed® Blush $30, a sheer sweep of lusciously creamy White Tea PureGloss® $24, that glides on with ease thanks to our new ergonomic applicator wand, and endless combinations of five milky-soft, earthy shades from the Naturally Matte Eye Shadow Kit $58. Then cap off the No Makeup Look with soft but perfect brows with our new GreatShape® Eyebrow Kit $35. Visit Face Haven at 323 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. (413) 528-4053

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dress with finesseMAKE YOUR FIRST DATE A SUCCESS / By Rodelinde AlbrechtY ou never get a second chance to make a first impression.

We all know this is true, right? And one of the most important situations in which that first impression is

key is a first date. If your date is with someone destined to be just a casual friend, you can be pretty relaxed, although you’ll still want to put your best foot (or shoe) forward. But if you’re about to meet someone you hope will become a significant part of your life, it’s worth giving the matter serious thought and thoughtful attention.

Finesse means delicacy or subtlety, adroit management of a difficult or sensitive situation. And if a first date isn’t a sensitive situation, I don’t know what is! As you get ready for that first meeting, consider the following four points.

1. Of course you want your date to see you at your best. You know perfectly well that if this person becomes a part of your life, they’ll see you in all sorts of situations. By the time you know and accept each other, the eyes of love will make allowances. But right now this is a brand new page in each of your lives; neither of you has a history of the other to explain or redeem imperfections.

2. At the same time, you want to feel comfortable in your clothes.

If you feel overdressed, or are togged out in garments you’re not used to wearing, you won’t be able to give your full attention to your date. Inattentiveness and unease will communicate themselves and make the other person feel ill at ease as well – not a happy situation when both of you are trying to feel relaxed with one another.

3. You also want your personality to shine through. If you tend to be formal in your daily life, by all means show that in how you present yourself. If you tend to be more casual, you can allow that to show in the way you dress. Don’t try to second-guess the other’s taste. There’s no point in playing a role you think the other person is expecting if that role is not actually you.

4. And you want to honor your date by the care you have taken over your appearance. Nothing seems to say “I don’t really care a whole lot about you or about what you think” than a sloppy presentation. We might think that being ourselves to the point of being slapdash is the way to be completely honest. But if you honestly care, you’ll be careful. Bottom line: Be your very best self, but be your real self ! And now, go get ‘em, Tiger! ~ Rodelinde Albrecht, Concerned Singles, (413) 243-4350, www.concernedsingles.com


13


food & drink

Houseguests last summer arrived laden with gifts: home-made jams (they�re jam junkies), books, fresh-picked fruit from a farm close to their Vermont home, and

huge tins of homemade . . . um . . . crackers.

I have to admit, the last part left me a little less excited. Never really been a particularly keen cracker-eater. Always preferred my carbs in bread or cookie form, it must be said. Good scones, too.

But then we politely tasted the crackers. And of course, we should have known, because isn�t homemade just always going to be better? Isn�t that just the rule? These crackers were so delicious, and so packed with good-for-you stuff, it really was a revelation. And of course, I wanted to make them myself. And I wanted mine to be better than theirs. Of course.

Just before summer hit, I had collected a copy of a new cookbook, hoping to have some time to play with it before I got too busy, which of course I didn’t. But I remembered seeing pictures of crackers in this book. And I remembered how uninterested in them I had been compared with all of the other delicious things. And I realized that this book was probably going to be the perfect place to start my mission to out-cracker my friend. And it was.

Flavor Flours is by Alice Medrich, an acclaimed and experienced baker and cookbook author. She’s absolutely fabulous. And she’s written the book that we’ve been waiting for: a gluten-free baking book that focuses on FLAVOR! Alice Medrich is a skilled technician, and all of the recipes in this book work beautifully, but they’re also

delicious in a way that gluten-free goods made with blends of rice flours and starches aren’t: the flours impart distinctive and yummy flavors that take everything to the next level.

Now, on to the crackers. Alice Medrich has a few recipes for crackers in the book, since each chapter focuses on a different flour, and I started with her “Seed Crackers” since they were the most similar to the crackers that my friend had made. The list of ingredients may be a little bit daunting, so I apologize for that. If you’re into gluten-free baking, then you may already have a few of them around. All of these ingredients are now readily-available, if that’s some comfort.

Also, if you would allow me to take this moment to recount the benefits of baking with a gram scale (trust me, it makes baking quicker, cleaner, more accurate, and more fun! for $25!), this will make it less annoying to handle all of these ingredients. I just bring the gram scale and the KitchenAid bowl right over to the counter in front of where I store all of the stuff and start throwing things into it. Doesn’t take more than a couple of minutes, I swear!

And did I mention that this copious list of ingredients happens to be comprised of tons of nutritious things? And that they’re dairy free? And that they’re absolutely addictive? And finally, it really makes a lot, so at least you’ll be rewarded for your efforts for a longer-than-usual time after baking something delicious.

Give them a try and let me know if they turn you into a cracker-convert, too.

Seed Crackers HOMEMADE IS ALWAYS BETTER / By Rachel Portnoy


food & drink

15

1½ tsp (8g) salt¾ cup water2 tsp rice vinegar1 tsp (5g) baking powder¼ cup plain oil4 cloves crushed garlic2 tsp sweet paprika

HOMEMADE IS ALWAYS BETTER / By Rachel Portnoy

Garlic & Paprika Seed Crackers

Preheat oven to 400ºF. Measure into a mixing bowl:

ingredients½ cup (80 g) brown rice flour½ cup (80 g) white rice flour⅓ cup (40 g) oat flour⅔ cup (80 g) cornmeal½ cup (65 g) sunflower seeds¼ cup (35 g) sesame seeds⅓ cup (40 g) flaxseed meal2 T (25 g) brown sugar

instructionsMix all ingredients together for about three minutes with a flat beater or spatula until thoroughly combined. The dough is soft, but not particularly sticky. You can always dust it with a bit of rice flour to help. To shape the crackers you have two choices:

1) Cut two pieces of baking parchment the size of your baking sheet. Place tablespoon-size blobs of dough onto one piece of parchment about four inches apart (I use an ice cream scoop for convenience). Cover the scoops with the second piece of parchment. Then, first using the palm of your hand and then a rolling pin, roll your blobs out into long, oblong-shaped crackers about 1/16" thick. You will need to loosen the paper from time to time to allow the dough to spread evenly.

2) Or, you can place half of the dough on a sheet of parchment paper, cover with the second sheet, and roll it out between the paper into a large rectangle about 1/16" thick. Again, you will need to peel the papers at different moments as the dough stretches out between them. Freeze this sheet of dough for about a half hour until cold enough to cut with a sharp knife or with a pastry or pizza wheel into the desired shape and size for the crackers.

For either method of shaping, proceed as follows. Peel off the top sheet of parchment paper. Flip the paper with the crackers on it onto the baking sheet so that the dough is touching the sheet directly. Place in the oven and bake for about four to five minutes. At this point you can remove the paper, flip the crackers, and bake for another four to five minutes until toasted golden and smelling delicious. Let cool completely and enjoy! ~ Rachel Portnoy and Franck Tessier own Chez Nous Bistro in Lee, MA. www.cheznousbistro.com

Tues-Sat dinner only • 150 Main St., Lee 413.243.6397 cheznousbistro.com

½entrées

available

D-e-e-licious!

Pittsfield & Great Barrington, MAguidosfreshmarketplace.com

NORTH EGREMONTCOUNTRY STORE

Wholesome ● Homestyle ● Delicious

We offer a full line of groceries and spirits. Let us help you with your holiday needs!

Monday-Thursday: 6a-6p Friday-Saturday: 6a-7p Sunday: 6a-4p

Photo by John Phelan

Route 71, North Egremont, MA (Near Prospect Lake)Call (413) 528-4796

Warm & Friendly Service

Arroz Doce Portuguese Rice Pudding

Translated to “sweet rice,” this is a delicious, comforting rice dessert, similar to an Italian dessert risotto. This recipe has been adapted from “Mom’s Portuguese Rice Pudding (Arroz Doce)” at theportugueseamericanmom.com, by Guido’s Own Dietitian, Rachel Alves. Serves 6.

Ingredients

1 cup water3 cups milk (1-2% works fine)1 2-inch piece of lemon rind (which is traditional, but you could use orange, if you’d like)Pinch of salt1 cup medium-grain white rice1 cup sugar1 large egg yolkCinnamon for garnish

Directions

In a medium saucepan on medium high, bring water, milk, lemon rind, and salt to a boil. Add rice and stir. Turn down the heat to the lowest setting and cover pan. Let simmer for about 20 minutes or until most of the liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally.

After 20 minutes, you should test the rice to see that it is fully tender. Only then is it time to add the sugar and stir once more. The rice will become liquefied once again. Continue to cook on low for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

Once most of the liquid has been absorbed, add the egg yolk and stir vigorously (about 1 minute).

Pour rice into a shallow dish and sprinkle with cinnamon or “decorate” with it. Traditionally, you would take a small shot glass or small glass, dip the rim in water to moisten, then into cinnamon, and then lightly press into the rice pudding to make pretty designs.

31 main street, stockbridge, ma413.298.7271 ● [email protected]

www.sweetsavourymain.com

● Espresso ● Scones ● Hand Pies ● Soup ●

food & drink



17

White Light HealingSheri Biasin, Reiki Master* intuitive guidance * angel cards

Increase your life force. Unblock energy. Create a feeling of serenity & improve your overall wellbeing. Experience lasting results.

A unique experience. Gift certificates.Evening appointments available.

413.822.2070 Do this for yourself, today!

Arroz Doce Portuguese Rice Pudding

Translated to “sweet rice,” this is a delicious, comforting rice dessert, similar to an Italian dessert risotto. This recipe has been adapted from “Mom’s Portuguese Rice Pudding (Arroz Doce)” at theportugueseamericanmom.com, by Guido’s Own Dietitian, Rachel Alves. Serves 6.

Ingredients

1 cup water3 cups milk (1-2% works fine)1 2-inch piece of lemon rind (which is traditional, but you could use orange, if you’d like)Pinch of salt1 cup medium-grain white rice1 cup sugar1 large egg yolkCinnamon for garnish

Directions

In a medium saucepan on medium high, bring water, milk, lemon rind, and salt to a boil. Add rice and stir. Turn down the heat to the lowest setting and cover pan. Let simmer for about 20 minutes or until most of the liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally.

After 20 minutes, you should test the rice to see that it is fully tender. Only then is it time to add the sugar and stir once more. The rice will become liquefied once again. Continue to cook on low for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently.

Once most of the liquid has been absorbed, add the egg yolk and stir vigorously (about 1 minute).

Pour rice into a shallow dish and sprinkle with cinnamon or “decorate” with it. Traditionally, you would take a small shot glass or small glass, dip the rim in water to moisten, then into cinnamon, and then lightly press into the rice pudding to make pretty designs.


home, garden & landscape

May 6 - 8 MOTHER'S DAY PLANT & BAKE SALESt. Mary's School115 Orchard Street - Lee, MA (413) 243-1079FRI 11:30AM-5PM/SAT 8AM-5PM/SUN 8AM-NOON

We wish you a very happy

Mother's Day!

(413) 743-7828 visit us at www.cheshireglassworks.com

spring is here!SHOP FOR FLOWERS, VEGETABLES, ACCESSORIES & MORE

Hanging baskets filled with flowers, herbs, or strawberry plants make wonderful gifts for Mother’s Day. They are

very practical for decks and balconies in particular, or where other plants won’t grow. Water thoroughly and often, use a slow-release granular fertilizer, and rotate the basket on occasion so the plant gets sun on all sides. Stop by Jaeschke’s Orchards to shop for vegetable plants, gardening accessories, gifts for Mother’s Day, and for more helpful gardening and landscaping tips.

fire and glassONE-OF-A-KIND JEWELRY FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION

When fire is controlled, it can create beautiful things. If you love beautiful handmade jewelry, this little shop is for you!

Cheshire Glassworks is a unique glass studio and gallery that offers everything from earrings, bracelets, and rings to whimsical glass vases and sculpture. Local artist Jill Reynolds creates each piece with fire and glass. One-of-a-kind jewelry for graduations, Mother’s Day, or any special occasion. Stop in for a truly unique shopping experience! www.cheshireglassworks.com

studio space for momFOR SALE IN HARTSVILLE, NEW MARLBOROUGH, MA

This historic structure, built originally as a Methodist church in 1849, is ideally situated right up the road from Gedney

Farm, and backed by a tranquil stream and distant mountain views. Permitted use of the property allows both commercial and residential occupation so it’s ready and waiting to be transformed into a country store, café or restaurant, artist studio, fabulous home, museum, antique shop, bakery, or office complex.

The building has a beautiful stone foundation with original doors and double-hung windows. The widows have their original “wavy” glass panes. The siding is full thickness old growth clear pine and is in great shape (only needs paint). The frame is a massive chestnut post and beam design in excellent condition with high ceilings.

The building has undergone careful renovations respectful of its history and integrity as an historic landmark. The main section has been gutted, insulated, and dry-walled (fire code). A new 400-amp electric service was added as well as a new Viessmann boiler and cast-iron radiator heating system. The maple floors have been refinished and are in good condition. It’s located on one plus lovely acres with plenty of parking and newly planted elm trees bordering the Route 57 side. For more information see www.hartsvilledesign.com/building-for-sale or call (413) 274-1122.

$500 OFFPURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE

In Business Since 1881

Open 7

Days

736 Crane Ave., Pittsfield • 413-443-7180West Road, Adams • 413-743-3896

Under the Gazebo on Frank Consolati Way, LeeOpen Fridays Only from 10am - 3pm

736 Crane Ave., Pittsfield • 413-443-7180West Road, Adams • 413-743-3896

Under the Gazebo on Frank Consolati Way, LeeOpen Fridays Only from 10am - 3pm

With Yankee Clipper Coupon Only. Expires 9/23/07

Hanging Baskets Planters Annuals

Cemetery BoxesGeraniums • Perennials

In-season fruits & vegetables, garden accessories & more!

736 Crane Ave, Pittsfield (413) 443-7180West Road, Adams (413) 743-3896

Locally owned business since 1881!

Vegetable plants,

happy mother's day

19



T here are a lot of feral and semi-feral cats living in our midst. Some were pets at one time, but having lived outside for a while, they have lost their trust of

humans. Some were never social with humans and do their best to avoid us at all cost. Many of these “community cats” have not been spayed or neutered, so from mid-spring to late fall, litters of kittens are born and raised right in our backyards . . . literally!

When caring animal-lovers see kittens outside, we want to help. Surely the best thing is to catch them and find them homes, right? Not so fast! It’s way more complicated than you think! Here are some issues to consider:

How old are the kittens?

• If they’re under four weeks old, they should stay with their mother.

• If they’re between four and eight weeks old, they could be captured and socialized, but only if you or someone has the commitment to fully socialize the kittens and find them homes. Please join us in our efforts to end the cycle of overpopulation by making sure kittens are fixed before you give them away.

• If they are more than 8 weeks old, they will require much more time for socialization (hours per day), and a much greater commitment to their future as a house cat, because there’s no turning back! Once they are taken from their outdoor home, they will have lost their connection to their colony as well as their mother, who was in the process of teaching them how to live an outdoor life. Kittens more than eight weeks old should not be taken to a shelter because they are too feral for most shelters’ socialization programs. It’s in the best interest of older kittens to let them stay with their mother and live outside.

Where is the mother raising the kittens?

Mom cats usually do a great job of tucking their litters away in a safe place, and keeping them there until they are older; usually at least four or five weeks old. If you see kittens, your inclination might be to look for where they are being raised. This very often causes a mother cat to worry about their safety and move them. Their next location may not be as safe as her original choice, and it’s more likely that you will not see them again. Instead of looking

for their nest, take photos or good mental notes from a distance, and try to determine how old they are. Once you determine their age (see www.alleycat.org/kittenprogression) you can form a plan that is in their best interest. Animal DREAMS can help you form a plan based on what age the kittens are.

If I find very young kittens, how do I know if the mother cat is taking care of them?

If you know that a mother cat is out of the picture (has been taken or killed) then call a shelter to see if they can take the kittens and help them survive. Otherwise, it’s better to assume that the mother left the nest while you were there because she’s afraid of you. If that happens, she will come back when there are no people around. You could dust flour near the area to be able to check for footprints later, but you will run the risk of spooking the mother cat, causing her to move her kittens.

The mother cat is friendly, and the kittens are the right age for socializing. If I want to take them in, how would I go about that, and know I’ve gotten all of the kittens?

That can be very tricky. Young kittens who’ve had no human contact can be good at hiding. If you’re going to take in the whole family, make sure no one is left behind, because young kittens will not likely survive outside without their mother. Traps may be of help in this scenario, but kittens can be too small to trip the plate, and traps can be dangerous for them if not used in a specific way. Alley Cat Allies, www.alleycat.org, has written a great article on this topic, “How to Use Kittens to Trap a Mother Cat, and Vice Versa.” Animal DREAMS can also offer advice.

Isn’t it cruel to leave kittens outside?

If feral kittens are eight weeks or older, they are by now resolute that they don’t want to be around people. Their mothers are in the process of teaching them how to live an outside life: where to hide and be safe, how to find food. They are developing into a strong family unit. Well-fed, healthy cat colonies can lead happy lives. Caretakers tell us how much enjoyment they get seeing the kittens they care for playing in their yard. The best thing you can do for them is to provide food, water, and shelter (though they may have already found their own preferred housing). Then, so

animal talk

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SEE KITTENS OUTSIDE? By Carol Lew

Kitten Season Is Coming

21


animal talk

940 MAIN STREET, GREAT BARRINGTON, MA 01230

CARING FOR PETS SINCE 1957

BENSDOTTER’S PET 413-528-4940

Your trusted source for quality foods

and supplies.

Your trusted resource for raw-feeding

information and advice.

Convenient Location with Ample Parking

on Route 7 less than a minute south of Guido’s

www.bensdotters.com

Mon-Fri 10a-6p Sat-Sun 10a-4p

Provides …Food for needy dogs and cats

Reduced rate spay/neuterAssistance with basic veterinary care costs

Call 413.229.8579 or 518.781.0362or visit www.petpartnersberkshires.org

A division of Scientific Alliance For Education (S.A.F.E.), a 501(c)(3) Non Profit Organization

of the Tri-State BerkshiresPet Partners

Call Faith 518-781-0362

We are an entirely all volunteer 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization

Celebrating 10 years asChampions for Community Cats413.528.1328P.O. Box 1073, Pittsfield, MA 01202www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org

find us on

Celebrating 10 years asChampions for Community Cats413.528.1328P.O. Box 1073, Pittsfield, MA 01202www.BerkshireAnimalDREAMS.org

find us on

Advocates for Community CatsRaising awareness through advocacy, education, and action.

413-997-2287Volunteer ● Donate ● Learn more

the population doesn’t continue to grow, find a way to have them all spayed and neutered through a TNR (trap, neuter, return) program. They can be spayed or neutered by the age of nine weeks (as long as they are two pounds). They can receive a rabies vaccine after they are twelve weeks old. They can reproduce as early as five months old.

If you see kittens, the best first step is to determine how old they are, from afar. Then get the help of experts on the best course of action.

An excellent resource on all issues related to cats living outside is Alley Cat Allies, a national TNR organization. www.alleycat.org

~ Carol Lew is a volunteer TNR (Trap Neuter Return) Coordinator for Berkshire Animal D.R.E.A.M.S. They are a Berkshire County resource to help with TNR, and advice about cats who live outside. To contact them or to make a donation please call (413) 997-2287, or visit their website at www.berkshireanimaldreams.org.

On the Move

D id you know that there are ten species of turtles in Massachusetts, ranging from the tiny bog turtle

(3-4” long), to the snapping turtle (up to 19” long), in addition to five sea turtles that have been found offshore or stranded on beaches? Turtles generally live between 30 and 100 years depending on the species, but many of them are now in danger.

Turtles are on the move this time of year. Keep a close eye out for them – if you spot one in the road, please be sure to stop and help it get safely across. If it is injured, place it in a cardboard box, close the lid so it’s dark, and leave it in a quiet area until you can get help. Don’t assume that a turtle that is injured is dead. They have extremely slow metabolisms and can suffer for days – even weeks – before dying. Many vets and rehabilitators will take in wildlife and treat them (start with www.rescuenetwork.org). If you have determined that a turtle is not injured, then lend it a hand crossing the road, being extra careful if it is a snapping turtle (a plastic snow shovel works well) – always in the direction that they were heading in. Do not take it home. Do not relocate the turtle. Turtles have a homing instinct and they will try to get back to the area they came from.

~ Faith Connolly, President, Co-Founder, and Director of Pet Partners of the Tri-State Berkshires. www.petpartnersberkshires.org

Engaged learning for children ages 15 months through 8th grade

Call or visit online to schedule a tour.413.637.3662 BerkshireMontessori.org

explore

Now

Enrolling for

2016-2017

Admission

23


education & workshops

W e were sitting down to dinner. My youngest was tapping his spoon against a bowl, fascinated by the sound it made. My middle child was asking a series of questions: “What does it mean to get an

education? Why do people go to school? Why was Malala shot? Why are there wars?” The oldest was getting frustrated with the other two, wanting them to follow directions and have their dinner places in order.

In that chaotic moment before dinner, it’s easy for exasperation to take over. As adults we might sometimes wonder what in the world propels our children. Really, what are they thinking when they try making holes by poking the table with a fork?

We are born with innate human characteristics. We are hard wired to explore, work, connect, and communicate. We crave order in our surroundings. We imagine possibilities. We create. We need to orient to what is around us, move our bodies, and wonder about the how and why. These human tendencies are unconscious, universal drives and they are at play from birth.

Thus the newborn is able to have familiar landmarks when she hears her mother’s heartbeat. If allowed to be on the floor, she will rotate her body and move in amazing ways. This drive to move actually propels the infant into scooting, crawling, and eventually coming to that upright position that allows her to use her hands and really explore her environment.

We recognize these needs in our infants, but that vital life force is powerful for older children, too. When my son was exploring the noise of his spoon against a bowl, he wasn’t trying to aggravate me. He was just exploring cause and effect, and delighting in the auditory result.

When we take time to remember that children are compelled by basic human tendencies, we can begin to support those tendencies and, as such, help our children become their best selves.

Our home and learning environments can provide children with a sense of order. Knowing where one’s things go and how to help contribute to a task provides children with a sense of security and belonging. Just think about the feeling of uncertainty you can get when you visit someone’s home and don’t know whether to take off your shoes, where to hang your coat, or even how to be useful.

We can prepare our children for routines and offer accessible spaces that allow them to participate in the functioning of the day. They can help set the table, feed the cats, gather the laundry, prepare their lunches, and so much more. By participating in a meaningful way, they feel significant and ultimately more confident.

My middle child’s constant questioning merely came from her need for intellectual exploration. Her big questions spoke to her newfound mental ability to ponder big questions about the

world. As our children venture into new territory, either physically or intellectually, they benefit from opportunities to test their ideas and make connections to what they already know.

My oldest tried to create order around her, yet as social beings we have to learn ways to collaborate effectively. The earliest humans had to cooperate to survive. As such, my older daughter merely needed some light support to find a way to communicate and connect with her siblings, rather than lapsing into exasperation.

Human tendencies compel our children. They compel us. If we keep these innate drives in mind, we just might have more compassion for our children and ourselves.

~ K. Meagan Ledendecker, Director of Education at The Montessori School of the Berkshires, loves thinking about fundamental human tendencies and how they underlie so much of our very human behavior. www.berkshiremontessori.org

Why Do Our Children Do What They Do?

By K. Meagan Ledendecker


health & wellness

Great Barrington, ma 413-528-3334 | Sharon, ct 860-364-5990

goldman / tripposteopathic healthcare

As osteopathic physicians, we use our comprehensive knowledge of

anatomy and physiology to promote health and healing. We work gently

with our hands to help your body restore optimal function – based on

optimal structure – to help solve musculoskeletal problems

and health issues of all kinds.

As fully licensed physicians, we have all of the full and current medical

pharmacopeia, nutritional science and medical training at our disposal.

Your individual treatment may include a wide range of approaches,

but is always founded on our gentle hands-on work.

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This is where health, beaut y and well being begin.

That’s OUr Business .

You may only need to add a pinch of seasoning to every meal to enjoy better health. Common culinary spices are linked to many health benefits, including reduced

pain and lowered risk of cancer. In addition to tasting great, these ingredients can give your body a boost, so turn up the heat, and add some spice to your diet! Here is a brief list of common spices and their known benefits.

Chili Peppers

Chili peppers have an ingredient called capsaicin, which is the source of the spice within them. Capsaicin relieves pain, increases heart health, stops ulcers, and fights prostate cancer. The hotter the pepper, the higher its capsaicin content.. Habanero or Scotch bonnet peppers are the spiciest options, but jalapenos, cherry peppers, and Spanish pimentos offer a mild alternative.

Cinnamon

Many people love cinnamon, so having another reason to eat it may come as a welcome surprise. Cinnamon helps your body manage blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and keep arteries clean. Look for ways to include cinnamon in common foods. It is delicious in coffee, hot cocoa, oatmeal, and sprinkled on top of carrots.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a small package with several big benefits. It’s used for prevention and healing of many known conditions. Medically, nutmeg has strong antibacterial properties. Like cloves, nutmeg contains eugenol, a compound that may benefit the heart. Myristicin found in nutmeg has been shown to inhibit an enzyme in the brain that contributes to Alzheimer’s disease and is used to improve memory. Drops of nutmeg oil can also be mixed with honey to treat nausea, gastroenteritis, chronic diarrhea, and indigestion. Caution: Nutmeg should be used in moderation – a pinch or two is considered safe. However, large doses can trigger an acute psychiatric disorder.

Turmeric

Turmeric is related to ginger, and both of these spices can reduce inflammation from arthritis. They are also said to reduce the risk of some cancers. Turmeric is best absorbed with pepper, so sprinkle them together for maximum effect. Use turmeric to flavor curries and other spicy ethnic dishes.

Turn Up the Spice By Dr. Francine Lajoie


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health & wellness

Garlic

Whether you love or hate garlic, its health benefits are indisputable. Garlic is antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral. It also has the capacity to stop blood clots from forming. If you prefer not to season your dishes with this versatile herb, you may find it in pill form.

Thyme

Thyme’s strong flavor goes well with roasts and robust stews. Thyme contains natural oils that are antiseptic and antibacterial. Thyme and other herbs are easy to grow at home, so save money by planting your own seeds.

Oregano

Oregano contains a pair of antibacterial agents called thymol and carvacrol that fight infection. Additionally, oregano packs four times as many healthy antioxidants as blueberries. This classic Italian herb is a fantastic seasoning with amazing benefits, whether used fresh or dried.

Parsley

Do not let this mild-flavored herb fool you! Parsley has been connected to health benefits from the time of the Romans. Its benefits include helping to prevent plaque buildup in the arteries, pass kidney stones, and slow the progression of deafness. Never again make the mistake of leaving parsley on your plate. Pick up that garnish and eat it!

Important note: Any use of these spices and herbs in large quantities to achieve therapeutic effect should be discussed with a qualified practitioner.

~ Dr. Francine Lajoie is a chiropractic physician and is certified in Advanced Clinical Nutrition. In 2000 she founded Living Well Chiropractic and Nutrition, a multi-therapy health center in North Adams, Massachusetts. The practice focuses on a combination of proven successful therapies including chiropractic and nutrition response testing to improve the quality of their patients’ lives and help them reach their fullest health potential. Their mission is to change the face of healthcare by teaching their patients how to prevent illness and pain, and to bring the world under a more holistic approach to health care. For more information see their website at www.living-well.info, or call (413) 663-5500.


Grand opening of new location in Great Barrington, MA!

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Grand OpeninG! NEW LOCATION IN GREAT BARRINGTON, MA

Berkshire Eye Center is pleased to announce the grand opening of our new location at 409 Stockbridge Road (Route 7) in Great Barrington, Massachusetts.

Our new office will allow us to provide our patients with complete ophthalmology care. We will be doing comprehensive eye examinations, contact lens examinations, and testing and minor procedures on site. We will also have a full-service optical dispensary that carries a wide selection of designer frames and sunglasses as well as the most technologically advanced lenses.

With the addition of Dr. Joseph Gold and Dr. Diane Singer, Berkshire Eye Center now has 10 physicians. We are the leading ophthalmology practice in Berkshire County offering complete one-stop eye care. Our physicians, Bruce Evenchik, MD, Gregory Shouldice, MD, Fred Orlando, MD, Neal Ginsberg, MD, Marcin Zygawski, MD, Joseph Gold, MD, Diane Singer, MD, Paul Fellenbaum, MD, David Agahigian, MD, and William Goodrich, OD, provide the highest quality of medical care for our patients.

Our team of medical and surgical ophthalmologists specialize in comprehensive ophthalmology and eye surgery, including no-stich cataract surgery, anterior segment reconstruction, and minor oculo-plastic surgery. By having glaucoma and retinal specialists on staff, we are able to provide the latest procedures for glaucoma, retinal, and other eye disorders. Our optometrist has an extensive background in contact lens fittings including keratoconus lenses.

Our licensed opticians have years of experience in the field and are required to be trained in the latest technology in prescription lenses. When you have your eyeglass prescription filled at Berkshire Eye Center, we take the extra time to analyze what is best needed for each individual.

We are committed to delivering the very best in eye care. Our team of doctors, technicians, opticians, and support staff will work to treat every patient with dignity and respect, provide dependable and courteous service, communicate clearly and honestly, protect patient confidentiality, and earn their trust.


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Grand OpeninG! NEW LOCATION IN GREAT BARRINGTON, MA

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Don’t CatCh a Cavity LOWER YOUR CHILD’S RISK / By Dr. Casey Jones

What would you guess is the most common chronic childhood disease in

America? Would you be surprised to learn that the answer is “cavities”? Did you know that caries (the bacterial process behind cavities) is an infectious disease that can be spread from person to person? That’s right, cavities are contagious! I had to go to dental school to learn that.

Kids are not born with the type of bacteria that causes cavities. They get it from us . . . usually from all of the things that we do to love them. Cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from person to person. A person with untreated tooth decay can pass those specific bacteria to a child or another adult in the household. Usually it is the parent that is doing the germ-passing, but it could be a nanny, a grandparent, or a sibling. No one is going to stop showering an adorable baby with the kisses and affection that it so needs, but there are a few things that you can do to lower the risk considerably.

● Do not “clean” a pacifier or a bottle nipple with your mouth. You probably just made a face, but there are a lot of parents out there who drop the pacifier and, in a pinch, think that they are doing good by cleaning the ground germs off, and taking a hit for their kid. Not many would think that they could actually be doing their child harm by passing their own cavity germs (not to mention other germs) on to their child.

● Do not share utensils, cups, or even worse, toothbrushes with your child.

● Make sure that your own mouth is healthy. If you have your cavities treated, there will be fewer cavity-causing bacteria for you to pass on to your child.

● Clean your baby’s mouth after “eating” (nursing or taking a bottle) from the time that they are born, or . . . if that idea is a little too overwhelming for the new parent with a million things to think about, at least start doing it as soon as the teeth

erupt (around 6 months old). Decay can start as soon as the teeth erupt. You can use gauze, a damp wash cloth, or even a finger brush (happens to be one of my favorites). Continue taking a turn with the brushing until they are six to eight years old or until they can tie their own shoes.

● Schedule your child’s first dental visit by age one. Usually we do a knee-to-knee exam where you actually get to hold your child facing you in your lap. We will do the “tickle monster” (oral cancer screening), “count the teeth” (do an exam), “tickle the teeth” (clean them) . . . Most importantly we talk with you about things you can do to prevent cavities and what you can expect as your child grows. Think of it like a well-visit for your child’s teeth.

● Start flossing their teeth anywhere you cannot see between them, usually around age 2. If there is space, the toothbrush bristles can get there, but if the teeth are touching, then you need something else – floss – to clean that plaque off. You can play “hide-and-seek” looking for “sugar bugs” and anywhere that you hear a click (where the teeth touch), you found one!

As a mother of two toddlers, I completely understand picking your battles, but keeping your child’s teeth healthy is a battle that you will be happy you picked. Some of the baby teeth stay in the mouth until the child is about 10 years old, so what we do or don’t do early on can affect our children throughout their childhood.

~ Dr. Casey Jones maintains a private practice in Lee, MA. Since joining Dr. Jay Wise two years ago she has been selected for the Massachusetts Dental Society’s “10 Under 10 Award.” She has a passion for prevention and education and sees oral health as an integral part of overall health. www.drjaywisedds.com


W hen you think about it, if you think about it, our physical beings are one big feedback mechanism. It

will give you the information you require to live a life that most resonates with you. The tricky part can be listening to the body. First one has to make the connection that the body is able to communicate what is going on and then be willing to hear the message.

Have a headache? It could be because you haven’t had enough water or you have tension and are wearing your shoulders like earrings. It could also mean that your skeleton needs some attention and an adjustment. There is also the possibility that you are avoiding thinking about an area of your life and your head is saying “umm, hello? Hi! If you use me to address that issue, I will ease up and not have to cramp you like a vise grip squeezing your head. Just a thought. It’s what I am here for.”

Have heart palpitations? Yes, it could be your addiction to caffeine but it could also be that you are hurting and not allowing yourself to feel all of the emotions because they seem too great. I have personal experience with this one lately. My body was trying to tell me that while I thought I was relaxing and allowing the emotions to flow, I wasn’t at the level I was now capable of. Of course, we have to follow due diligence and go to the doctor to have the physical vessel checked, but being aware it is giving you feedback can help to alleviate the issue before it becomes a true medical problem. I am very fortunate, because I won’t settle for less, to have a medical practitioner who will hear me when I say that I believe it is emotional and a deficiency of minerals, but we have to check out the ole pumper as well. I am so excited to do the stress test! Talk about tangible feedback!

What this recent visit to communication with my body reminded me of is that we have pathways that have been created from previous experiences and if we listen to them, we can shift and really be in alignment with self. The feedback loop that is created is like a great conversation. One being talking. The other listening. Then taking turns. What you give in a conversation comes back if you are willing to listen. Truly listen. In a session with someone this is what I do the best, I

mind & spirit

feedba ck; the messenger of mind, body, a nd sou lTHE TRICKY PART IS LISTENING TO YOUR BODY / By Vicki Baird

mind & spirit


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believe. I listen to their words, their body, their soul, and their energy field. They may not know what is being said by their body, mind, or soul and it’s my job to help figure that out and then change the pathway that will change the perception that then changes the habit . . . Exciting, isn’t it?

For the sake of practice today, let’s stay with the body. What is it trying to tell you? Do a body scan and see what organs, muscles, bones, or systems are talking to you. Yes, it will feel weird at first; we have been taught to think of our body as a secondary consideration, a vehicle that gets us from point A to point B. But it is so much more than that. If your car made a clunking sound, you would try to figure that out wouldn’t you?

We are quick to jump to a prescription and a diagnosis in this society. What if you listened to the messages and then created a working plan from there? For my seemingly broken heart, I could stress out more, demand a prescription and a diagnosis, or I could listen, take steps to change how I am responding to life and accept that this process is not an overnight one and that I can learn sooooooo much by opening my inner ears to hear what my heart needs. It works, people, and if you can’t hear yourself, that is fine. Locate a practitioner who can help you hear what your body, mind, and soul are telling you. Then take it from there. Drive your own feedback vehicle.

Feedback is the data that makes my brain so happy, the action my body likes, and the acceptance my soul is here to learn. It is also the knowing that I have the tools to have them all work so well together. So can you. I truly believe you can.

~ Realizing after 15 years in business finance that her joy was in helping people develop their own peace, happiness, and intuition, Vicki Baird left corporate to build her own practice providing personal and business intuitive coaching, Belief Re-patterning, and workshops. Contact Vicki at [email protected] or call (413) 499-9791. www.vickibaird.com

beyond the berkshires

Left Nostril BreathingTry gently holding your right nostril closed with your finger, and breathing slowly and deeply through your left nostril for at least three minutes before lying down to sleep. Left nostril breathing stimulates the right side of the brain and the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates digestion, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves sleep quality. Alternate nostril breathing is said to balance the left and right hemispheres of the brain and calm the nerves.

Blue Blocking GlassesAccording to Harvard Medical School, light at night is bad for your health, and exposure to the blue light emitted by electronics such as computers, tablets, smartphones, and energy-efficient light bulbs may be especially so. Until the advent of artificial lighting, people spent their evenings in relative darkness. Although it is very important to get enough natural sunlight in the day, at night artificial light suppresses our body’s ability to release melatonin (a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain that helps maintain your body’s circadian rhythm). Blue light can throw your biological clock out of whack. Blue Block Glasses, www.blueblockglasses.com, offers a smart solution and can be worn alone or over your current glasses. It’s also a very good idea to purchase an organic cotton sleep mask to wear at night.

Get Enough ExerciseYes, yes, I know, you’ve certainly heard this one before – regular exercise helps just about everything – but the trick is finding a way to consistently fit it into our busy schedules. I sit at my computer a lot for work, so along with wearing my Blue Block glasses after dusk, I’m going to try an under-desk exercise bike by DeskCycle. The DeskCycle fits neatly under almost any desk, has very good ratings, and allows you to pedal away while you type. I’ll let you know how it works out in a future issue!

Electromagnetic FieldsYour bedroom should be a healing place. Electromagnetic fields have a profound negative impact on our health, our cells’ ability to communicate, and our ability to sleep well. Consider hard wiring your computers instead of using wireless, or at the very least shut down your wireless network at night (I create this magazine without any wireless at all). Put cell phones on airplane mode and remove all cordless phones from the bedroom and adjacent rooms. Don’t use a digital alarm clock next to your bed and remember that when you turn off your bedside lamp, electric fields are still emanating from the wiring in your walls and from all appliances while you sleep. So if you can, turn off all circuits that power the bedroom wiring and adjoining rooms (next to, above, and below).

Trouble Sleeping?By Kathy Regan


Proper sleep is crucial to maintaining good health. If you are having trouble getting your zzzzz’s, following are some tips you may not have tried . . .


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our berkshiretimes magazine, april-may 2016

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