Many people hearing Cole’s singing for the first time—including her own producer—are immediately struck by the rare beauty of her phrasing, her remarkable control, and, above all, her tone.
"If you don't think we have a problem, watch drivers circle our streets on Saturdays like desperate sharks.”
--- Writer and downtown resident Mickey Friedman
"We're leaving knowing we've done a fabulous job here. The children and parents have been a joy to work with."
-- Pat Navarino, Renaissance Arts Center co-owner
"I think Great Barrington needs to have a more robust business community than it currently does. Great Barrington needs to become that small town that, besides great food and culture, is also a very interesting place to set up your business and that's the missing piece."
-- Tim Newman, WiredWest spokesperson who would move his business to Great Barrington if affordable high-speed communications were available
“The trend nationally is that both baby boomers and millennials are migrating back to downtown centers for greater mobility options, access to shopping, restaurants, cultural venues, recreational facilities and healthcare options.”
--- Ian Rasch
Castle Street firehouse owner Thomas Borshoff has no incentive to do his promised redevelopment. He is making money by doing nothing, with rent from the town from whom he purchased the property.
“In many places, things are getting homogenized, which is a real loss for our economy and our culture. I see the Berkshires as one of the final bastions of independent, unique entrepreneurs. What really makes our entire economy go is local people supporting each other.”
-- Rob Navarino, owner of The Chef's Shop in Great Barrington
