Tuesday, December 9, 2025

News and Ideas Worth Sharing

John Townes

John Townes is a writer who grew up in Berkshire County. After working as an editor and writer in Seattle, Washington, he returned to the Berkshires and has written for regional publications for over 25 years.

written articles

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Ultimate Body Factory in Pittsfield

Located in a renovated 8,500-square-foot space, the gym and fitness center aims to provide a positive sense of community and personalized service.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Indie Readery & Records—a brand new shop in downtown Pittsfield

"Our store serves as a community space for like-minded individuals to engage with new ideas, music, and humor, while providing a space for cultural and community events."

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Dottie’s Coffee Lounge

Following a brief hiatus, the popular gathering spot in downtown Pittsfield has reopened under new management.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on This & That Sports and Revolution Card Grading

The two businesses in downtown Pittsfield specialize in baseball cards and other collectibles—Pokémon merchandise, signed sports memorabilia, and more. 

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Dettinger Lumber Co.—serving Berkshire County for nearly a century

The Pittsfield operation is a one-stop lumber yard, hardware store, and design center for professionals and homeowners alike.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Steven Valenti’s—a retail destination in downtown Pittsfield

For 43 years ago, the family-owned business has "provided a full range of quality men’s apparel, in a comfortable setting with great personal service."

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Witch Slapped, LLC.—brewing community in Pittsfield

This "haven for all things metaphysical and mystical" is a shop and learning center in one, offering classes, workshops, rituals, and events.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Tommy’s Compost Service—built from the ground up

As a parent and former teacher, Mary Stucklen saw composting as a way to help improve the future of the planet—and provide a value-add service to the community.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Purple Plume—Closing while still at the top of its game

“We’ve outlasted many businesses,” says Culver. “I’d estimate that about 60 stores have come and gone since we started.”

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on The Home Historian—turning a passion into a profession

Journalist Joe Durwin of Pittsfield has created a service that explores a property's past, an outgrowth of his lifelong interest in Berkshire history.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Berkshire Wedding Associates and Tux Express

For more than three decades, Jerrid Burdick has been helping to promote the Berkshires as a premier wedding destination, matchmaking couples with local vendors for a happily-ever-after celebration.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Synagex Modern IT—building on its success with a strategic acquisition

A merger based on shared goals and a commitment to serving the Berkshire business and nonprofit communities takes a local IT company into the future.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Concepts of Art—A unique mix with broad appeal

A second generation takes over, refreshes the merchandise and survives the pandemic stronger than ever.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Dottie’s Coffee Lounge—expanding next door in the former Mission space

Owner Jessica Rufo sees Dottie's new sibling Dorothy's, which will serve dinner and drinks, as adding to the revitalization of downtown Pittsfield.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Chocolate Springs—Mixing French tradition with Japanese design

Chocolate Springs, marking its 20th year in business in 2023, has become a popular provider of handmade chocolates and other confections for residents of and visitors to Berkshire County.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Byzantium—Set to close in January

A longtime staple in Great Barrington’s downtown retail mix is closing after 43 years.
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