EDITORIAL

---

Photo: Moose Foran

Editorial: Stockbridge Exceptionalism, American Exceptionalism

September 2025: The weather was exceptional; the location was too, and so was the effort put into protecting our village. For almost three hundred years, we preserved and protected not just Stockbridge beauty and natural resources, but also the communal spirit that creates livability.

In 1736, the original land grant that would be named Stockbridge was 27,000 acres. Today, based on the most recent census data, the total area of the town is 22.7 square miles, or about 14,528 acres. In 1986, a valiant group founded the Land Trust. More than 10% of that land has been preserved. The Stockbridge Land trust can be proud. The founders are gone. It is up to us.

And yet, these are changing times.

They say there is no Stockbridge exceptionalism. That’s wrong. We can see the result of it all around us. The specific exceptionalism was as simple as shared values and a belief that everyone should pitch in.

When Mary Flynn was dying, she tapped the back of my hand with hers and said, “We left one job undone.” She wanted Yokun Ridge preserved. Twelve years later a local boy delivered the dying wish.

We can still do it. “The Times They are A-Changin,” but we do not have to change with them. And we shouldn’t. Why not?

There’s this video of a house out on the Cape sliding into the Atlantic. Locals told them not to build there. They said they wanted to, they could afford to, and nobody could stop them. They built. It played havoc with the house, but it made a great video. Inch by inch in the pouring rain, gaining momentum, the house slid over the edge and directly into the churning ocean waves.

As it disappeared, one local said, “Works out better when they listen to us.”

Listen now — we are running out of time.

We do not need Stockbridge to be a microcosm of the nation’s capital. We want to hire the most able not the most loyal. We don’t want to hire people for an unapproved project and thereby override the power of the legislature. Our legislature is Town Meeting and it is important that the people hold the purse strings. Don’t float figures that will not cover the costs if the project is wanted and inflate the cost if the project is not. Do not pilfer from our neighbors and dine on the pelf. In short, we don’t need empire builders, personal power consolidators; we never have, and don’t see why we would need one now. We don’t leave communal interest at the door and laugh compassion out of the room. We learned to laugh the bully out of the room. We do not silence voices, ridicule dissent, or falsely accuse. That may benefit a few; it will never benefit the majority. We don’t do that stuff and should not suffer those that do.

Carole Owens
Executive Editor

 WATCH NOW

Video: An Interview with MMRHS Students

A discussion of the new MMHS high school proposed projects with MMRHS students James Tonetti and Luka Kononenko.

 NEWS

SU FYI

CPC Public Hearing Notice

Hi Carole,

If it's not too late, could you please include the following information in your next Stockbridge Updates,

Thanks Carole! Ericka Oleson, CPC Administrator

The Town of Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee (CPC) is opening the FY 2027 Request for Proposal Application process. The public hearing will be held on October 15, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Selectboard Meeting Room and via zoom. The application submission deadline is November 14, 2025, at noon. Copies of the CPC's Request for Proposals and submission guidelines are available in the Treasurer/Collector’s office at Town Hall or on the Town website at: stockbridge-ma.gov.

The Committee invites comments on the needs, possibilities and resources of the town regarding community preservation. It will also answer questions on its mission, guidelines and the protocol for submitting proposals.

The CPC oversees disbursements from the Community Preservation Fund and makes recommendations to the Town Meeting, which must approve all expenditures. The committee reviews projects to create/sustain affordable housing, restore historic building and sites, enhance outdoor recreation, protect open spaces through land acquisition or development rights, and create conservation areas. Priority will be given to “green” projects. Please note that funds expended pursuant to this chapter 44B shall not be used for maintenance.

The direct link to the guidelines and application is: FY'27 CPC Applications & Guidelines | Stockbridge MA

---

Photo: Lionel Delevingne

 UP AND COMING

Events

1. The League of Women Voters presents: A Talk by International Correspondent, James Brooke

"Democracy in These Trying Times - What’s Working and What to Work on!”

Please join us Wednesday October 15 at 5 PM at the Lenox Library (18 Main Street, Lenox).

Members & Friends are cordially invited to attend.

2. The Berkshire Waldorf High School Grand Opening, Old Town Hall (6 Main St.) October 19, 2025, 12pm — 3pm, tour, brief remarks, and refreshments. Everyone is welcome

3. The Berkshire Theatre Group presents Metamorphoses based on the myths of Ovid, on the Larry Vaber Stage of the Unicorn Theatre. Closing Sunday, October 26, 2025, 2pm.

Tickets $75 premium; $60 standard

Mary Zimmerman's Tony Award-winning Metamorphoses is a spellbinding reimagining of Ovid’s myths, brought to life around a shimmering pool of water.

This breathtaking production explores timeless tales of love, transformation and divine intervention, from Orpheus and Eurydice’s tragic longing to King Midas’ fateful wish. Directed by Isadora Wolfe, known for her work with Sleep No More, the show blends movement, poetry and striking imagery to create an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Recommended for ages 14 and up.

4. Norman Rockwell Museum presents “Step Into the Roaring Twenties” with live jazz, artful cocktails, and sparkling company—all in celebration of Jazz Age Illustration and in support of the Museum. 5:30pm — 9:30pm

First Look at the Exhibition — preview Jazz Age Illustration on its opening night.

Live Jazz & Dancing — the rhythms of the Jazz Age, then dance the night away

Open Bar & Signature Cocktails — prohibition is over, but the speakeasy is alive!

Festive Bites — elevated, artful flavors to match the mood.

Snazzy Photo Moments — strike a pose worthy of a vintage magazine cover.

Dress: From 1920’s Glam to Festive 2025—think fringe, feathers, & sequins

5. Stockbridge Halloween Parade and Pumpkin Walk, Friday, October 24, 2025, for area children. Marchers will meet at the corner of Main & Pine Street at 6:00PM and march up Main Street to the front lawn of the Stockbridge Library for cider & donuts, and pumpkin walk-about with lighted pumpkins carved by local businesses and area children. The fire truck will be stationed for discovery and there will be a sheeply petting pen on the front lawn. A Halloween story time will take place at 6:30PM and Drop-in Halloween crafts inside the library from 6:00-7:30PM.

Children and businesses interested in showcasing a Jack-O-Lantern of their own, should drop them off at the library any time before 5:30PM (The library staff will light them and provide candles). You can take them home at the end of the evening.

In case of rain the parade is cancelled and activities will take place in the library.

Sponsored by the Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce, Stockbridge Library, Stockbridge Police & Fire Departments, Stockbridge Coffee & Tea, and Prado de Lana Sheep. For more information contact: Barbara Zanetti at The Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce: (413) 298-5200, info@stockbridgechamber.org.

6. If you are curious about the proposed new high school, attend informational sessions at Ramsdell Public Library, 1087 Main Street, Housatonic, October 15 4:30pm — 5:30

Or Claire Teague Senior Center, 917 Main Street Great Barrington, Thursday, October 16, 12:30pm — 1:30pm

Or visit the project web site at https://monumentbuildingproject.org

7. No Kings: Freedom to Speak, an online rally bringing together artists and experts presents MARK Ruffalo, Thursday, October 16, 2025, 8pm — 9pm

Together, it will highlight how people are peacefully resisting President Trump’s attacks on free speech, the media, immigrants, and our basic rights — and share how you can join in. REGISTER HERE

---

Photo: Dana Goedewaagen/Blue Moon Images

 PERSPECTIVE

From the Desk of Peter Dillon, Superintendent of Schools, Berkshire Hills Regional School District

On November 4th from 11am-7pm, voters will have an opportunity to vote on two ballot questions: 1) to support a new high school and 2) to authorize a debt exclusion. A YES Vite on both questions is necessary for the new high school project to proceed.

The cost of the new school is $152 million with the MSBA committing about $60 million in funding, which could increase to just over $61 million depending on final project approvals. The project is also expected to receive $1.6 million in incentives from Mass Save.

Therefore, the SchooDistrict’s local share remains set at $89 million within the approved $152 million project budget. If contingency funds are used but deemed ineligible for reimbursement, they would be covered within the District’s share; only costs above the total $152 million would require additional local approval.

If the project is approved on November 4th, the District will move forward with borrowing funds for the project. Borrowing may occur in stages, depending on interest rates, but once approved, the project budget cannot increase without additional local approvals.

Construction will tentatively begin in 2027, with the new building expected to open in fall 2029. The new high school will be located on the current site, outside of the existing school’s footprint, which allows the current building to remain fully operational during construction.

response to Keith's query about possible changes to commercial insurance rates, Peter Dillon reached out to MIAA/Cabot Risk, the district's insurance carrier, and provided the following update:

Responses to questions were as follows:

1. It will cost approximately the same to heat and cool a larger building that provides heating, cooling and ventilation for the staff and students.

The cost to heat and cool the new, all-electric building is projected to be $209,000 annually. The existing school’s gas and electricity cost annually is approximately $245,000.

2. Insurance costs for the building will be tied both to the replacement value of the new building which will be higher than our current costs and the new upgraded systems (sprinklers, alarms, etc.) which may help mitigate those increases somewhat.

When the construction/building has been bid out, they can calculate changes in more detail.

3. If the project is not approved, the district will lose its funding opportunity with the MSBA.

4. The existing school still requires extensive repairs, and even partial fixes such as a new roof or heating system would trigger full building code upgrades. These costs would fall entirely on local taxpayers with no MSBA reimbursement and would be the most disruptive option for students and staff over many years, while still resulting in a school that does not meet the educational needs of our programs and students.

The Committee studied repair-only, addition/renovation, and new construction options. A repair-only option would have cost at least $89M, would be 100% taxpayer-funded, would cause the most disruption, and deliver no educational benefit. New construction was chosen as the most cost-effective, least disruptive for students, and best long-term solution for the community.

5. If you are interested in learning more, please attend a Community Information Session.

These meetings provide another chance to review the final design, cost, and tax impact information ahead of the November 4 district-wide vote, and to ask questions in a conversational setting. All residents are welcome to attend the session most convenient to them. Each meeting will include a project update, a review of the final design and financial details, and time for community Q&A. There are two remaining meetings listed under Events above.

If you have questions, feel free to reach out to the building committee at https://monumentbuildingproject.org/connect/ or directly to Superintendent Peter Dillon at peter.dillon@bhrsd.org .

---

Photo: Lionel Delevingne

 NEWS

From the Statehouse

By Christine Rasmussen

The Massachusetts Division of Clean Energy Siting and Permitting released its regulations for the permitting of “small clean energy infrastructure projects”, which is the local process for permitting clean energy projects less than 25 MW, storage projects less than 100 MWh, and transmission or distribution infrastructure in an existing right of way less than ten miles, or a new right of way less than one mile. Learn more about the regulations here. Public comment on the regulations is due by October 17, 2025.

The regulations could fundamentally change how these facilities are located and permitted. Berkshire Regional Planning will be providing comments on the proposed regulations. Some projects that depend on subsidies may be cancelled. However, there are companies that could have resources to build. In addition, there are state goals to reduce emissions with greenhouse gas emissions limits to 50 percent below 1990 levels. Those are still in effect.

Once regulations are in the books, it is difficult to get them changed and the law requires the new siting and permitting policies be effective by Mar 1, 2026, determining what projects get built. The concern is that the proposed regulations are not strong enough to incentivize projects be built to minimize their destruction of the natural lands, open space, viewsheds and forests. These lands naturally remove 11 percent of the state’s climate-polluting emissions each year, according to MA Audubon. Besides they provide community with its character, ecosystem benefits, and clean water.

Finally, modifying the timeline for review places a burden on small towns.

Federal Actions Impacting Our State:

The FY 2026 state budget, signed by Governor Maura Healey on July 4th, was based on conditions that could not have been anticipated by early October, which include a projected decline of roughly $650 million in tax revenues.

The new dashboard available at mass.gov/fedimpact reveals that President Trump and Congressional Republicans have cut $3.7 billion from the Massachusetts state budget this year alone. This includes $3.3 billion in funding cuts enacted by Congress and $399 million in cuts made through executive action by the President. These reductions affect various vital services, including funding for homeland security, disaster prevention aid, school mental health services, tutoring, school security and building upgrades, healthy food for children and students, respiratory illness prevention and treatment, community health centers, public health workers, substance use disorder treatment, increased broadband access, and many others.

Additionally, the dashboard predicts that the “One Big Beautiful Bill” could lead to as many as 300,000 residents losing health care coverage through MassHealth and the Health Connector. Furthermore, another 108,500 people are expected to lose access to SNAP food assistance programs. If Congress chooses not to extend pandemic-era tax credits that help Americans afford health insurance, the Massachusetts Health Connector marketplace would need an extra $255 million from Beacon Hill to maintain its most subsidized option at current rates.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) New survey data from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities shows that homeowners across Massachusetts are embracing accessory dwelling units following Governor Maura Healey’s Affordable Homes Act, which allows ADUs to be built by-right on single-family properties statewide.

ADUs, also known as in-law apartments, are one strategy for building new homes and lowering costs. In the first six months of 2025, homeowners in 170 communities filed 844 applications to build ADUs on their properties, of which at least 550 had been approved as of July 2025.

---

Photo: Dana Goedewaagen/Blue Moon Images

 NEWS

Notes from the Affordable Housing Trust, September 11, 2025, Hybrid meeting

Chair Patrick White called the meeting to order and the minutes from the last meeting were approved

On the agenda were:

Communication and Marketing

They considered an interactive web site so people can share their thoughts and their needs

Fundraising strategies

The gift from Hans Morris was mentioned and a desire to raise more money

Municipal Housing Trusts vs Affordable Housing Trusts

Coke Forbes was interested in disbanding AHT in favor of a Municipal Housing Trust and thereby focusing more on municipal employee housing rather than affordable

White mentioned that the Seasonal Communities section of the Affordable Homes Act allows focus on municipal employees

A transition from an Affordable Housing Trust to a Municipal Housing Trust requires approval at Town Meeting and in the AG’s office.

---

Photo: Lionel Delevingne

 NEWS

Notes from the Board of Assessors, September 15, 2025, Hybrid meeting

1. CL1 forms due before December 1, 2025

2. In preparation to set the tax rate, statistics will be evaluated e.g. “new growth, all sales, all classes of property, evaluation after sales. For example, the new growth this year was $10,920,482 with new taxes of $77,426. That was almost exactly the same as new growth last year

3. Scheduling the Classification Hearing to consider any exemptions is ahead of schedule. The Assessor anticipates the tax bills could be sent out as early as November 1, 2025.

Editor’s note: Chapter land refers to a tax classification — lands reserved as forest land, agricultural land, or open space/recreational land under Mass General Law (MGL) 61. Once approved, the classification continues for a full 10 year period, and applicant must submit Form CL-1 annually.

---

Photo: Dana Goedewaagen/Blue Moon Images

 NEWS

Notes from the Kampoosa Bog Stewardship Committee, September 15, 2025, Hybrid meeting

The meeting was called to order by Matt Boudreau and the minutes of the last meeting approved. Present were Sally Underwood-Miller, Lisa Bozzuto, and via Zoom, William Resetarits.

The single topic of discussion was the impact of the construction at the Congregation of Marians on Prospect Hill Road. Responding to a report from a citizen, Underwood-Miller and Resetarits visited the site. Underwood-Miller said they were “quite alarmed” at what they observed.

There was deep concern about work proceeding without a Notice of Intent and permission from Conservation Commission.

Bozzuto said it was a “frank disregard” [for the rules.]

Underwood-Miller said, “historically, for many different projects, they [The Marians] have not adhered to the restrictions that they have been given [by ConCom].” She added it would be better for everyone if they followed the rules.

The concerns include:

“Epic failures” in the past

“Deep concern” about run-off into the bog

Native Habitat Restoration co-owner, Jess Toro is concerned about loss of rare species

The Stockbridge-Munsee band of the Mohican Nation were not consulted prior to disturbance of the earth for construction in order to search for valuable artifacts

Two other issues discussed were: A hydrological study of the bog for which they have $50,000, and possibly writing a bylaw that holds construction companies, not just the owners, responsible for following rules and restrictions.

Editor’s note: Located at the rear of the Marian property, Kampoosa Bog is an area of critical environmental concern (ACEC). It is a 1350 acre “calcareous fen,” habitat of rare species, and one of the state's most significant and largest calcareous fens, and one of only two lake basin fens in the northeastern United States. It is therefore extremely rare in Massachusetts and the entire region. According to Natural Heritage “preserving the integrity of this calcareous fen is critical.” The Nature Conservancy has given Kampoosa Bog a global rating for its significance.

The Dover Amendment exempts religious and educational institutions from many zoning bylaws, but they are not exempt from the Conservation Commission and wetland protection bylaws.

---

Photo: Lionel Delevingne

 NEWS

Notes from the Stockbridge Bowl Stewardship Commission (SBSC), September 18, 2025, Hybrid meeting

Chair Michael Nathan called the meeting to order. Sally Underwood- Miller reported that although the numbers for the Josh Billings Run Aground have been dwindling, it was a great event and delighted to have the finish line back at Tanglewood.

Harbor Master reported that the buoys have been pulled up and the markers.

Nathan reported that harvesting was at an end for the season.

A long discussion ensued about the Mission statement of the SBSC and its role as adviser to the Select Board. At issue was the lengths to which SBSC should go to investigate the recommendations made. There is language in the mission statement about scientific information --- what was the mission — to advise or analyze??

The Chair said, on an important note, the SBSC completed the Lake Management Plan in December 2022. A plan required by state agencies and funders. It was sent to the Select Board in early 2023 and nothing has happened since. It needed to be adopted which probably requires a vote of the SB. Nathan will follow up.

---

Photo: Dana Goedewaagen/Blue Moon Images

 NEWS

Notes from the Community Preservation Committee, September 29, 2025, Hybrid meeting

The CPC established the calendar for the 2026 awards:

Request for Proposals (RFP) will go out October 3, 2025

Public Meeting for applicants to discuss their proposals will be October 15, 2025

All applications due on November 14, 2025, by noon

One electronic copy and 10 paper copies required (11 if an historic building is involved)

Chair Sally Underwood-Miller shared that since 2002 no project recommended by CPC had been turned down at Town Meeting.

It was mentioned that some funded projects did not turn in the required final report. Ericka will send a follow-up letter.

---

Photo: Lionel Delevingne

 NEWS

Notes from the Land Trust Annual meeting, October 4, 2025, in-person only

With Mohawk Lake as a backdrop, there was a business meeting conducted by Trust president Rich Bradway followed by a walk around the lake.

During his time as president, Bradway reported that the records were digitized and stored in an online repository, and almost 660 acres of land were preserved.

Shep Evans was remembered as a founding member of the Land Trust, a key member of the team that conserved the 23-acre Four Corners parcel at the corner of Rte. 102 and 183, and an all-around great person.

Mohawk Lake, a natural spring lake, was the site of the Schneyer Ice Company founded in 1867 by George Schneyer. Ice was delivered to Lee, Lenox, and Stockbridge. The business closed in the 1950s.

Bradway concluded the meeting saying, “we would very much like to hear from anyone who might be interested in joining in our work to preserve and improve our wonderful town.”

If you would like to learn more about opportunities to become involved, please email us at info@stockbridgelandtrust.org.

About the Stockbridge Land Trust:

The Stockbridge Land Trust is a nonprofit corporation that was established in 1987. It has a fifteen-member governing board and an active membership of over four hundred local residents and friends. The mission of the Land Trust is to encourage and promote the preservation of land and the natural, historic, and community resources in the town of Stockbridge — including open space, forest land, farmland, wetlands, waterways, historic structures, and affordable housing.

For additional information, the Stockbridge Land Trust can be contacted at PO Box 1063, Stockbridge, MA 01262 or via email at: info@stockbridgelandtrust.org

---

Stockbridge Land Trust President Rich Bradway presents the annual meeting at Mohawk Lake. Photo: Patrick White

 PERSPECTIVE

Local History

By Rich Bradway

Editor’s note: Rich was kind enough to share his notes for the remarks at the meeting of the Land Trust. They are posted here because they are interesting. Did you know we had a train to nowhere? Did you know how strong and varied the Stowe family connection was to The Berkshires? From The Star Papers by Henry Ward Beecher to Harriet Beecher Stowe to Gertrude Robinson Smith and the Shed at Tanglewood. Read on...

Train to nowhere

• 1860’s the idea of a connecting train route between West Stockbridge and Lee was devised - the Lee & Hudson Railroad
• This would connect both north and south routes from the Albany area to east to west routes across Massachusetts and Connecticut
• 1869 a survey was done of the proposed new track from Westfield to West Stockbridge
• 1871 the Lee & Hudson Railroad was incorporated backed by Elizur Smith (papermaker of Lee), John B. Hull, and Henry D. Cone (papermaker)
• 1872 Lee subscribes $85K and Stockbridge $40K towards the project
• Contracts made for the grading of the railbed and by fall construction starts
• Proposed route would branch off near the “dry bridge” and follow Butler Road, continue NW across the Bowker property towards Mohawk Lake, crossing the road and skirting the east and north sides of the pond as it banks west towards West Stockbridge towards Route 41.
• Early 1873 60 men in 5 gangs work on various sections, but in May 1873 funds run out.
• 1874 “grading of the Lee & Hudson Railroad from Lee to West Stockbridge seems to be well advanced.
• September 1874 work was suspended due to a court injunction on property. Contractors start suing for funds owed, and other railroads start to back out of the project.
• 1876 the expenditures were nearly $250,000 with no sign of recovering expended monies from the state.
• Nothing is reported to the state from this point on and in 1883 the project disappears from the Commonwealth’s books and the project is officially dead
• Today some of the grading can still be seen driving towards Mohawk Lake (left hand side) and some areas where they drilled through rock are still accessible and show the work that was done in preparing the connection to West Stockbridge
• The financial drain on the investors was significant. Some like Henry D. Cone never bounced back financially.

The Stowe family

• The Stowe family’s connection to Stockbridge dates back to the period 1865 to 1872 when Harriet Beecher Stowe visited Laurel Cottage where her son-in-law and daughter were living while the son-in-law was rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church - Rev. Henry Allen.

Editor’s note: Harriet’s brother, the Reverand Henry Ward Beecher resided at Blossom Hill in Lenox (Miraval today).

• In 1929 Hilda Beecher Stowe - nee Robinson Smith, was deeded, by her parents, Charles Robinson and Jeannie Steele Smith, the land which included the building “The Dugway”, amounting to roughly 100 acres of land in the Glendale section of Stockbridge and some in West Stockbridge. The various tracts of land had been purchased by Charles Robinson Smith between 1917 and 1926 and included a part of the former Lee & Hudson Railroad (railroad to nowhere).
• The property was used as a summer residence and was near the cabin built by Hilda’s locally famous sister, Gertrude Robinson Smith, who was responsible for the construction of the Shed at Tanglewood [Ed: and founder of the Berkshire Symphonic Festival renamed Tanglewood].
• Lyman Beecher Stowe and family would entertain at the house and Stowe gave various lectures in the area about his books, especially about his book Saints, Sinners, and Beechers
• Lyman Beecher Stowe died in 1963 and Hilda Stowe in 1965. The house “The Dugway" and 17 acres were sold to Alan Winslow in 1965.
• Between 1965 and 1967 Alan Winslow tried to obtain a permit to run a private school out of the Dugway property, but each attempt failed.
• The property was sold in 1967 to Clark Moore for $58,000.
• The remaining acreage stayed within the Stowe family until being donated for green space preservation in 2025.

---

Photo: Dana Goedewaagen/Blue Moon Images

 PERSPECTIVE

The Right to Read

Submitted by the Literacy Network

The Literacy Network, LitNet, www.litnetsb.org, is a 34-year-old volunteer-based, nonprofit organization that provides free individualized reading, writing, and English language instruction to adult learners, both U.S. and foreign-born, in Berkshire County, MA. The mission of Literacy Network is to transform the lives of adult learners through the power of literacy, education, and advocacy. LitNet believes everyone has the right to an education.

LitNet will honor the Masiero Family of Guido’s Fresh Marketplace at its annual fundraising celebration, Generation to Generation: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future, which will be held at Drifters Bar & Restaurant at Bousquet Mountain on Friday, October 18, starting at 6 PM.

LitNet’s annual celebration is a significant source of funding for the organization’s free, flexible, and individualized tutoring programs in English for Speakers of Other Languages, US citizenship preparation, adult basic education, and first-generation college support. LitNet has served close to 350 individuals throughout 2025, 95% of whom are adults working on English language skills. Proceeds from the event will support LitNet’s general operations and ensure the continuation of its free and accessible programming.

The first Guido’s opened in Pittsfield in 1979. In 1995, a second store was added in Great Barrington, and each store has been expanded over the years. In 2023, brothers Christopher and Matthew Masiero handed down the business to their children, the next generation, cousins Anna, Nick, and Matt.

“The Masiero family doesn’t just bring excellent food to our community,” says LitNet’s Executive Director Leigh Doherty. “They are fair employers, and they give back generously to important causes in our towns. It seemed fitting to honor the Masieros, whose successful business has evolved over the years while maintaining its central core of sharing quality food. LitNet, too, is in a new generation, yet literacy, education, and opportunity remain at the center of our work.”

Limited tickets are still available. To purchase tickets or support LitNet, visit LitNet’s website at www.litnetsb.org/event or contact Leigh Doherty at ldoherty@litnetsb.org or call (413) 243-0471.

---

Approximately 400 attended the services at Congregational Church and the subsequent memorial at Berkshire Waldorf High School for the funeral of 20-year-old Wyeth Curtis, a former student who lost his life in early October. Photo: Patrick White

 PERSPECTIVE

Understanding the No Kings Movement

By Anita Schwerner

Rally - Sat, Oct 18, 10:00am-11:30am EDT

Location: Stockbridge Town Offices, 50 Main St, Stockbridge, MA 01262

In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings. Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.

The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us.

A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.

How to Prepare for Your Event: Bring signs

Make your message visible! (Ideas: “NO KINGS IN AMERICA!”, “THE PEOPLE UNITED”, “NOT YOUR PIGGYBANK!”)

Recruit friends ? More people, the more power.

Record everything ? Post photos/videos with #NoKings

Volunteer! EMAIL aschwerner2020@gmail.com to volunteer to assist Set up/Break down, Crowd counters, Safety marshals, Chant leaders, Photographers and more! Parking available on street and in parking lot behind Town Offices

Join us!

---

The top of the Stockbridge Soldier's Monument. Photo: Patrick White

 THE LAST WORD

Reader to Reader

Carole,

While cycling down Tyringham valley today, I admired the historic watering trough, and I

recalled the old trough in our town that I had enjoyed for many years. I think the inscription was "utility is preferable to grandeur"?

I ask if my recollection of the proverb is correct? And what has happened to our trough? I am saddened every day when I pass by the site of the old watering trough. Since you are in the know and someone who our Town Administrator respects and listens to, are you able to provide a status update? I fear for its demise.

Sincerely

Alan Wilken

Hi Alan,

Thank you for your note. As far as I know it is out for repairs and will be returned soon.

Carole

To the Select Board cc: Stockbridge Updates

Dear Jamie and Chuck,

I would like to have the Public Comment included on the select board meeting agendas.

Actually, I am amazed it was taken out of meetings in the first place. Three minutes sounds like a reasonable time to allow someone to speak.

At the last meeting there was plenty of time to bring up some questions that were on people’s minds.

Aside from our Highway Supt problem, the Tennis courts on Pine - talk to Dickie Peretti. We have done several courts with him at nowhere near the numbers you are talking about. We moved 2 THOUSAND yards of material and installed a new court in a hillside in Hillsdale for less than $300,000. See Pictures below.

---

Dear Members of the Select Board,

Cc: Stockbridge Updates

I am writing to express my strong support for the preservation and restoration of the Pine Street tennis courts. I respectfully urge the Board to consider renovating the courts with a proper foundation to ensure their usability for the remaining 44 years of the lease. The existing foundation, likely set in the mid-1970s, is now over 50 years old and showing signs of significant wear. A thoughtful investment in renovation would provide exceptional long-term value.

Stockbridge has long taken pride in its commitment to preserving the beauty and character of our town through investments in its monuments, gardens, and historic architecture. That tradition is important, but equally important is our investment in spaces that support the vitality, health, and well-being of our living community. The Pine Street courts offer exactly that kind of return.

It’s important to note that the current underuse of the Pine Street courts is not due to lack of interest, but rather to their unsafe condition. Cracked and uneven surfaces make play hazardous. This is a maintenance issue, not a demand issue, and the drop in use reflects the town’s disinvestment, not the community’s disinterest.

Financially, the opportunity is clear. With no tax burden on the leased land and 44 years remaining on the lease, restoring these courts now ensures decades of community benefit at a relatively modest cost when amortized over time. Compared to other recent town projects, this is a high-impact, fiscally responsible investment.

At the same time, we recognize the growing demand for pickleball facilities. A smart solution would be to restore Pine Street as dedicated tennis courts and designate the Town Park courts for pickleball This division of use, already successful in towns like Lenox, reduces conflict, maximizes use, and allows each sport to grow.

From a planning and noise perspective, pickleball is far better suited to the Town Park, which already has restrooms, playgrounds, and a future performance area. Pine Street is a quiet residential area where tennis, already part of the soundscape, is a far more compatible fit.

Relying on the courts at Monument Mountain Regional High School as an alternative is not realistic. Those courts are in disrepair, shared by students and the Berkshire Hills Tennis Association and located outside the town center. Encouraging residents and visitors to go elsewhere weakens our effort to keep people engaged with Stockbridge businesses and gathering places.

Walking away from a long-term lease with 44 years remaining would be deeply short-sighted. The town made a commitment, not just to Austen Riggs, but to its own residents, to maintain this space for active use. Abandoning that responsibility sends the wrong message.

As for alternative ideas, such as installing concrete chess tables or a passive park could be appropriate enhancements to the Town Park, where they would complement existing and planned amenities. But what residents and visitors need most are well-maintained, accessible places to move, gather, and connect. Tennis and pickleball provide those benefits powerfully and simply. Numerous studies show that people who play racquet sports live longer, healthier lives—physically, mentally, and socially.

This is a chance for Stockbridge to honor its past commitments while investing in a healthier, more vibrant future. I hope the Board will choose to restore the Pine Street courts and retain this valuable community asset.

Sincerely,

Joseph Tonetti

Dear Carole,

Thank you for all the reporting, thoughtful editorials and publicity you offer to the happenings of Stockbridge! It is impressive - each of your publications different and yet each is an important addition to the wellbeing of the Town.

What could be happening anywhere else? (Haha !!) Well, LWV CBC will hold an annual meeting for members and friends at the Lenox Library because it is open and available in the early evening.

Thank you, Carole, for squeezing in the notice in time in this edition of SU.

On a personal note, I will be sharing my role as president of the local LWV chapter with Mose Olenik of Great Barrington. Her contact is oceanmose@gmail.com. She is copied on this. We have worked closely together over the last year. and we look forward to joint efforts in the future.

Kind regards,

Ramelle Pulitzer

To the editor:

I have been surprised by the number of “Vote Yes on Monument” signs lining the roads of Stockbridge. One thing appears clear: these signs are appearing in front of houses that rarely post any political signs on the front lawns. Are these new residents of town with children who moved from elsewhere in the ‘great escape’ of Covid-19? I think they are. I also think these new town voters are in a position to lobby not only the Stockbridge Select Board but also the new residents in West Stockbridge and Great Barrington are in the same position.

Lobby their Select Boards to do what? Adopt The Residential Tax Exemption.

It is fact that during Covid outlanders from wherever actually bought homes here sight un-seen and for cash. There were bidding wars and those with substantial resources paid “over asking price” to assure their purchase. The result is: it is these very folks who drove our real estate values and property taxes through the roof. Again it was these folks who have put many in positions where their property tax burden is beyond their reach.

In his September 4 column Berkshire Edge writer Michael Wise wrote “South County Towns should adopt RTE or The Residential Tax Exemption.” Wherein he spells out a detailed explanation of what would happen to “ordinary people’s” (or local’s) residential property tax rates. The article left it in-disputable the 3 Select Boards should adopt the RTE during their tax classification hearing in October. Search and read this column.

Those who oppose it on these Select Boards say it’s anti-growth, it’s divisive. To those members of these Boards I say ‘nonsense”. These Selectmen/women are elected to serve THEIR CONSTITUENTS!. Who are their constituents? They are the ones who voted them into office. They are the very folks who could find legal tax relief if they adopted the RTE. Second homeowners paid absurdly high prices for their 2nd homes.

During October Select Boards with no constituent input decide whether to adopt it or not. During October I suggest you attend Select Board meetings and lobby them. Speak out! Write letters! Tell them to vote yes on the RTE. It will make the impact of the New Construction of Monument affordable for our residents and voters.

John Hart

Carole,

Wonderful newsletter!

I live in Lenox and don't necessarily have a dog in the hunt regarding Stockbridge Community events, although it seems my 38 years managing the former Shadowbrook Estate grounds for Kripalu I've established an affinity for your community. I am Kripalu's historian of sorts, not ever close to your historian capacities. I manage Bullard Woods property for the SBA as well, I am a groundskeeper without borders.

I do have an extensive amount of photographs taken over the years of landscapes, wildlife and human interactions on the landscape. Also of Shadowbrook in its prime, your historical publication sits on my shelf which inspires me.

I love the sense of community you are currying with the newsletter, its no easy feat to publish it in a world of polarities, and I like its simplicity. I am sending a pictures of the landscape from Olivia's overlook to the lake taken in a Fall morning, I call it Hope on the Horizon. Also a picture of Old man Winter trying to sneak pass us on a snowy night at kripalu.

I hope you can use them or at least enjoy.

Kevin Foran aka Moose

---

Photo: Patrick White