Saturday, September 19, 2026

News and Ideas Worth Sharing

Robbi Hartt

Robbi Hartt had a career teaching middle school English and writing at Greens Farms Academy in Westport, Conn. She now lives in Mill River, Mass., where she and her husband have renovated a 1795 farmhouse to create a respite for families dealing with pediatric cancer. She writes regularly for The Berkshire Edge and New Marlborough’s Village News. Her poems have appeared in the “Busy Griefs, Raw Towns” anthology.

written articles

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Prado de Lana Sheep Farm Yarn & Wool Shop

The family-run sheep farm and yarn shop enters a new chapter at Stockbridge’s historic train depot, with more room for classes and community.

‘A Conversation on Aging, Sleep, and Well-Being’ with Dr. Peter Grinspoon comes to Barrington Hall Tuesday, June 30

As more older adults explore cannabis options for sleep, pain, stress, and overall well-being, they often find it difficult to get reliable information. This is the challenge Calyx Berkshire Dispensary owner Donna Norman is seeking to address in a new series of health-related, educational gatherings.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Roberto’s Pizza, The Pub, and Robbie’s Community Market—opening soon on Main Street in Great Barrington

Owner Robbie Robles is expanding his brand, footprint, and culinary offerings with his third location in the Berkshires.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Berkshire HorseWorks in Richmond

The nonprofit offers equine-assisted educational and therapeutic programs, corporate team building, trail rides, and life skills curricula for children, families, and those facing mental health or behavioral challenges.

‘Walk the Block’ on June 13 to Benefit the People’s Pantry — ‘Come, See What We Do!’

"I loved the idea of starting at Guido's Fresh Marketplace, our huge supporter, and ending at The People's Pantry, so we could get as many people walking through this pantry as possible," says People's Pantry President Laura Gratz. "It's our way of saying, 'Come, see what we do!'"

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Torrico Electric and Grenergy Solar—vertically integrated for holistic design, install, and service

Founded in 1985, the family business combines decades of electrical expertise with a growing focus on renewable energy and backup power systems.

Music at the Southfield Church: Celebrating 10 years of magnificent music in a magical setting

"For the cost of a free-will donation, you get a short evening of incredible music in a gorgeous setting with amazing acoustics—plus the chance to talk with the artists and celebrate with the community over ice cream on the lawn," says founder-organizer Robert Olsen. "It's magical!"

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Railroad St. Collective in Great Barrington

The collaboratively run marketplace connects regional artisans directly with shoppers seeking distinctive, handcrafted work.

Vocalis Youth Choir and Chorus Angelicus to perform ‘Missa Gaia’ with baritone Jermaine Woodard Jr. on June 13 and 14

“Vocalis is celebrating five years, and Chorus Angelicus is celebrating 35 years. We both wanted to do something special to mark those occasions, and I was also eager to give our kids an experience singing in a larger group,” explains Vocalis Youth Choir Artistic Director Julie Bickford.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Hillsdale Workshop Alliance

The collective's Sixth Annual Hillsdale Workshop Experience Weekend is back by popular demand—and happening at various venues from May 30 to 31.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Bizen Gourmet Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar in Great Barrington

The Berkshire institution is celebrating 30 years of blending authentic Japanese cuisine, ancient pottery traditions, and a philosophy rooted in craftsmanship, care, and community.

Berkshire Hills Chorus performs in Sweet Adelines International’s regional competition in Springfield

When I visited last week, they were holding a special performance for family and friends as part of their final preparation. It is hard to say which sparkled more, their shimmering red-sequined tops or their beaming faces.

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Black Bear Training in Ashley Falls

The community-focused functional fitness gym blends expert coaching, nature, and belonging to help members build strength for the long haul.

Alander Group announces purchase of Beech Tree Commons in Great Barrington

“This is my community,” Alander Group co-owner Ian Rasch said. “I grew up here, am raising my family here, and employ over 100 people here. Everything we make at Alander gets reinvested in other Berkshires building projects—we’re committed long term.”

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on Art in the Berkshires—now open on Castle Street in Great Barrington

What began in 2024 as an online resource now operates a physical gallery and studio space to help further its mission—“amplifying the transformative power of art in our community by making it easier to discover, experience, and support Berkshire creativity in one welcoming place.”

BUSINESS MONDAY: Spotlight on MEND.—now in an expansive new location

The Berkshires’ first holistic, zero-waste spa has completed its move across downtown Great Barrington, reimagining the historic train station as a sustainable wellness retreat.
spot_img

The Edge Is Free To Read.

But Not To Produce.