Andre Lynch opens Dre’s Global Kitchen in Downtown Pittsfield, bringing ‘Flavors Without Borders’ to the community
Pittsfield– André Lynch, a nationally recognized DEI executive and consultant, is proud to announce the opening of Dre’s Global Kitchen, a family-owned and operated restaurant rooted in connection, culture, and care, located at 137 North Street in Pittsfield. With the tagline “Flavors Without Borders,” Dre’s Global Kitchen is a celebration of global cuisine, storytelling, and the power of food to bring people together.
Inspired by Afro-Caribbean and globally influenced flavors, Dre’s Global Kitchen offers thoughtfully prepared dishes that honor tradition while welcoming curiosity. Rooted in Trinidadian heritage, Caribbean flavor, and the warmth of soul food traditions passed down through generations, every dish carries intention. Every seasoning has a story. Every plate reflects respect for where the food comes from and the people it’s meant to serve.
After years of leading equity, belonging, and inclusion efforts across higher education and nonprofit sectors, Lynch is channeling that same commitment into the culinary world. Dre’s Global Kitchen reflects his belief that food—like equity—creates space for understanding, shared humanity, and belonging.
The business is proudly family owned and operated, grounding its mission in generational knowledge and love. It is a gathering place where equity lives not only in conversation, but is literally on the menu and at the table. “Much of what I know about care, culture, and community came from watching my mother, Deborah, cook,” said Lynch. “Her kitchen was a place where people gathered, stories were shared, and love showed up on a plate. Dre’s Global Kitchen is an extension of that legacy.”
Dre’s Global Kitchen officially opened on February 13th. Hours of operation are Thursday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit dresglobalkitchen.com.
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Hand Crafted Catering & Events opens newest venture thoughtfully curated café experience rooted in quality, seasonality, and hospitality
Pittsfield– Justin Carafotes opens Hand Crafted Catering & Events opens newest venture, a thoughtfully curated café experience rooted in quality, seasonality, and hospitality at 26 Dunham Mall in Pittsfield.
Known throughout the region for its ingredient-driven catering and events, Hand Crafted brings the same commitment to locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful preparation to its new weekday lunch concept. The café will feature a fresh, focused menu of sandwiches, salads, toasts, and grain bowls designed for both convenience and quality. “Our goal was to create something elevated yet approachable,” said Carafotes. “We wanted to offer Pittsfield a lunch option that feels intentional, fresh, and a little bit different.”
A signature element of the menu is its customizable sandwich experience. Guests select from carefully prepared proteins and finishes, then personalize their sandwich with a variety of house-made spreads including Calabrian mayo, rocket pesto, garlic aioli, honey mustard, hot honey, and sundried tomato whipped feta. The concept allows guests to build something familiar or create a flavor profile entirely their own.
Hand Crafted Catering & Events will officially open its doors on Tuesday, March 3rd, operating Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit handcraftednyc.com.
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Berkshire Pride marks 10th anniversary season of Pride
Pittsfield– Berkshire Pride proudly marks its 10th Annual Season of Pride celebrations throughout Berkshire County. Building on a decade of representation and community support, the Berkshire Pride festival has become a regional highlight, recognized in 2025 as one of the standout community events of the year ensuring that LGBTQ+ identity is celebrated from the northern peaks to the southern hills.
This June, celebrate Pride across the Berkshires with major celebrations in multiple communities, including Berkshire “Pride on the Common” Parade & Festival on June 20th, North Adams Pride Night on June 12th, Lee Pride on June 13th, and new for 2026, Lenox Pride on June 6th. Beyond festivals, Berkshire Pride’s season includes workshops, social events, and creative showcases, from youth empowerment programs to the “Berkshire Pride 5k & 1 Mile Walk” on May 31st.
“This 10th Annual Season is not simply a moment of reflection, but a declaration that Pride in the Berkshires is a permanent and growing part of our region’s cultural and civic life. We move forward together, building on the past decade as a foundation for the future,” said Berkshire Pride Executive Director Cass Santos China.
Sponsorship and volunteer support is needed now more than ever. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, volunteer opportunities, parade registration, and more, visit www.berkshirepride.org.
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Jack Miller Contractors acquires former Express Mart
Williamstown– On January 16th, Jack Miller Contractors (JMC) acquired property at 824 Simonds Road in Williamstown. Built in 1954, the business (formerly known as Express Mart and JJ’s Coffee & Convenience Store) is located at the southeast corner of Sand Springs Road and Simonds Road (Route 7). The 0.39-acre site is set in the town’s Planned Business Zoning District.
JMC worked with Maureen M. Dietze of Alton & Westall Real Estate Agency to purchase the property, now under the ownership of 824 Simonds LLC, from Reinland Property Management LLC. Prior to the purchase, SK Design Group of Pittsfield performed an Environmental Site Assessment for the vacant commercial property on behalf of the new owner.
In January, JMC received Williamstown’s approval to renovate and expand the convenience store property to serve as its new headquarters, which will be surrounded by a mix of commercial and residential properties in all directions. The Planning Board approved a redevelopment plan to add approximately 2,100 square feet to the 1,305-square-foot one-story building and to create 10 parking spots. The design plan includes green shielding and reduces the amount of impervious surface on the lot by about 2,700 square feet.
The conversion of the commercial retail space to professional contractor offices will allow JMC to locate all facilities under one roof including offices, meeting space and a small storage area, and to provide employees with a beautiful and pleasant place to work. In addition, the building will energize the creation of a new home services branch. This concierge service will include both comprehensive proactive care for high-end properties, and management of select smaller projects to complement JMC’s custom home building business.
JMC has engaged the services of Burr and McCallum Architects based in Williamstown to develop plans for the property. The design will focus on utilitarian layouts and prioritize functionality, clean lines and natural light. The mid-century building will reflect the characteristics and style of a 1950s machine shop. To beautify the intersection, the addition of native plants and trees will further enhance the setting, which is now mostly asphalt. Completion of construction is expected in late 2026 with a move-in date around the same time.
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NAACP Berkshire County Branch to host a virtual conversation on health equity with Massachusetts State Representative Marjorie Decker
Berkshire– On Wednesday, March 4th at 6 p.m., the NAACP Berkshire County Branch will host a virtual conversation on health equity with Massachusetts State Representative Marjorie Decker, as part of a a special General Membership Meeting.
A statewide leader in public health policy, maternal health equity, and women’s and birthing people’s health across the lifespan, Decker has advanced landmark legislation addressing racial inequities in maternal health, expanding access to emergency contraception, establishing the nation’s first Affirming Health Care Trust Fund, and elevating critical conversations around perimenopause and menopause care. During this virtual conversation, she will connect state-level health policy to the lived realities of Berkshire County residents, with particular attention to disparities affecting BIPOC communities, low-income residents, rural communities, and aging populations.
“Our communities deserve access to equitable, affirming, and responsive healthcare at every stage of life,” said NAACP Berkshire County Branch President Dennis Powell. “Representative Decker’s leadership on maternal health equity, reproductive access, and public health innovation directly addresses disparities that impact residents here in Berkshire County. This conversation is about connecting policy to people — and ensuring our voices are part of that process.”
The program will include a 20-minute presentation followed by a moderated Q&A session, creating space for meaningful dialogue between state leadership and the local community. Branch members will receive the Zoom link directly in their email inboxes. Non-members are welcome to attend and may register by emailing naacpberkshirecounty@gmail.com with the subject line “Health Equity.”
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Zonta Club of Berkshire County to host fourth annual International Women’s Day Recognition Celebration
Pittsfield– On Friday, March 6th at 5:30 p.m., Zonta Club of Berkshire County will host its fourth annual International Women’s Day Recognition Celebration at the Berkshire Hills Country Club.
The women to be honored at the event are Divya Chaturvedi, Executive Director of the Elizabeth Freeman Center; Lorena Dus, Director of Client and Community Services at Berkshire Immigrant Center; Shela Levante, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts; Brenda Opperman who was previously an Associate Professor at the U.S. Naval War College and Maria Rundle, Executive Director of Flying Cloud Institute.
“We’re delighted to highlight the accomplishments and contributions of these women in our community,” shared club President Jackie Melendez, “through their work, the lives of area women and girls are supported and empowered.” For tickets to the event, visit www.zontaberkshire.org or email Zontaberkshire@gmail.com.
