Saturday, September 12, 2026

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 West Side Clock Shop in Pittsfield

This family-run business has stood the test of time—selling, servicing, and repairing clocks for 66 years.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Lipton Energy—an independent, family-owned Pittsfield company

Now in its fourth generation, the company operates gas stations and convenience stores—and now a car wash—in Berkshire County as well as southern Vermont.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Sarah’s Cheesecakes & Cafe in Pittsfield

The small family-owned and -operated operation is celebrating its 20th anniversary—and looking forward to many more years to come.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Lanesborough Local Country Store

The goal of the woman-owned business is "to be a destination for people who want to find products made in the Berkshires."

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Berkshire Roll-Off—A Family Business Operating Out of Lenox Dale

The small, independent company provides waste management collection and disposal services for residential and commercial customers throughout the county.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Peachy Balloon Decor in Pittsfield

The company designs balloon displays and other elements for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, showers, and other private parties, as well as corporate conferences and public events.

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.
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