Editorial

Editorial: Translating Josh Billings

Henry Wheeler Shaw, in his persona as Josh Billings, was very popular — misspelling, poor grammar, incorrect word choice, and all. His purposeful mistakes mimicked the accent and common sense of country folk. When he reverted to proper usage, he lost his audience. Here is Billings’ guide through this Stockbridge election season. To translate Josh, just sound it out.

“It iz a darned sight ezyer tew find six men who kan tell exactly how a thing ought tew be did than tew find one who will do it.” 

Stockbridge Updates thanks all those willing to do it — to run in this year’s Town election and then serve the Town. The least we can do is show up and vote.

On the national stage we have fallen into grievance politics. Let’s hope grievance politics never packs its bag and moves to Stockbridge.

“Poor human natur iz too full ov its own grievances tew have enny pitty to spare — if yu show a man a big bile on yure arm, he will tell yu he had one twice az big az that, on the same spot, last year.”

Grievance politics never rid us of the boil.

This year Stockbridge has stepped up its game with advisors. David Cameron has been a help to the Conservation Commission and Planning Board. Cameron has been the model of a good advisor: attended the meetings of advisees; listened carefully; avoided politics and did not take positions, instead offered relevant knowledge and experience remembering he is not the decision-maker. Good advice-giving is never adversarial, never arm’s length, but always collaborative and arm-in-arm.

“Adviz iz lik castor oil, ezy enuf tew giv but dredful unezy tew take.” 

Now we’ve had a kerfuffle or two. That happens among folks trying to get a thing done and even more when they want a thing done their way. Just remember, grievances and bad manners don’t move anything forward.

“Misanthropy don’t pay — thare aint no man living whoze hate the world cares one cuss for.”

“If we would all ov us take kare ov our own souls, and let our nabors’ alone, thare would be less time lost, and more souls saved.”

That’s all for now because Josh advised: “There’s great power in words if you don’t hitch too many of them together.”

I end as he often did: “I beleave in the universal salvashun ov men, but I want tew pick the men.”

Editor’s Note: Thank you to a good friend and clever shopper for the gift of The Complete Works of Josh Billings 1876

by Carole Owens , Managing Editor

News

SU FYI

1. Thank you!

To all who became volunteer subscribers in just two weeks. We are honored by your support and flattered by the notes you attached. Join us — the volunteer subscriber campaign continues until August 2023 and then not until next year. We are grateful to all new subscribers, and to all future subscribers.

On August 6, our third anniversary, we will launch our Sponsor’s campaign. Sponsors will be listed in SU and will have a chance to “Lunch with a Local Luminary”. 

2. Congratulations Maria Carr! 

…on the competition of your book, Marking Stockbridge’s Past. Maria tells us, “It is a compilation of the monuments, plaques, and markers in memory of the events and people within the town and the history behind them. I started it in 2010 and it took me until 2022 to locate, photograph and research everything and then another year to get it published. It is now available.”

3. Vote!

Select Board – Patrick White*, incumbent vs. Roxanne McCaffrey

Parks and Rec — Michael Nathan vs. Joanna Lenski

Unopposed

Planning Board — Wayne Slosek, incumbent

Sewer & Water – John Loiodice*, incumbent

Board of Health – Elias Lefferman*

Board of Assessors — Brandi Page

Asterisk * indicates endorsed by the Democratic Town Committee

Vote! Request a No-excuse Vote by Mail Ballot until 5 pm on Wednesday, May 10: 

Vote! The deadline for Absentee Ballot Application is also May 10 at 5 pm 

Vote! in person on Election Day, May 16!

Vote! Every vote counts.

4. Meet the Candidates – Joanne Lenski, Parks and Rec

What prompted you to run?

Being a Mom to a wonderful 6-year-old kindergarten student at Muddy Brook, we spend ALOT of time at the town playgrounds. While there I have noticed some need for improvement, and it got me thinking about what I could do to make our town playgrounds and parks more enjoyable for my son and I, as well as any other families who visit them. In 2020 during the COVID pandemic, I founded a tenant union for Pinewoods, which now represents 21+ of my fellow affordable housing tenants and voters in Stockbridge. Through my advocacy work on their behalf at the municipal level, my sense of civic duty was dually inspired by wonderful folks like Patrick White and Ranne Warner of the Affordable Housing Trust Committee, who have dedicated their time and effort to making Stockbridge a better place to live for ALL people in Stockbridge. I hope to be blessed with the opportunity to do the same. 

If elected, what would be your primary focus?

• Creating more community engagement through increased recreational opportunities in our town
• Fundraising for new, additional playground equipment features and recreational activities
• Building a network of volunteers to help facilitate recreational activities; i.e – cleaning a skating rink at the park, trash clean up parties, etc

What would you like voters to know about you?

I am a hard worker and very passionate about the causes I care about. I genuinely care about raising up my community and the people in it, and about making Stockbridge a more enjoyable place for us all to live. Unlike some others, I am not running for this position simply for status, but because I have a strong desire to serve the people of this community, and to create more opportunities for people to enjoy a more rich recreational life here. To this end, I am putting together a voter survey that I will be sending out via social media (and Stockbridge Updates) to ask you the voters, what you would like to see more of in the way of our parks and recreation. This will help me to gain valuable information to better serve the people of Stockbridge in a more direct and personal way! Thank you for considering me for your vote for the Stockbridge Parks and Recreation Commission! 

Meet the Candidates Q&A — Patrick White

https://www.stockbridgeupdates.com/imgupdates/4-9/pwvideo.jpg

News

Events

1. Meet and Greet the Candidates

The League of Women Voters of Central Berkshire County invites you to meet the candidates at the Stockbridge Town Hall Gymnasium, Saturday, May 13 at 10:00 AM. Moderator: Jennifer Howlett, Williamstown LWV. Meet & Greet and Refreshments to follow.

2. Berkshire Botanical Garden —

46th Annual Plants-and-Answers Plant Sale, on May 12 and 13 Sale hours for the general public are Friday, May 12, 11 to 5 p.m. and Saturday, May 13, from 9 to 5 p.m. Early buying for members only will be Friday, May 12, from 9 to 11 a.m. The garden will offer free admission and free parking for all visitors.

“Alchemy and Innocents: Works by Anastasia Traina — May 5 — June 25 — Opening reception is Friday, May 5, from 5 to 7 p.m. The opening reception is Friday, May 5, from 5 to 7 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. Food and drink will be available. The exhibition illuminates the botanical world and its hidden creatures.

Learn more at the BBG website. 

3. Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires (NPC)

Free Communication and Development Workshops — Each Zoom Workshop is 30 minutes + 15minute Q&A. Select “How to Secure Matching Grants”, “How to Partner with Local Government” and more. For information go to www.NPCberkshire.org

4. Stockbridge Library

Weekly Storytime for Kids – Every Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Monthly Slime Squad (Sign-up required) Tuesday, May 2 from 3:45 p.m. – 4:30 p.m

Yarn Octopus Craft – Wednesday, May 10 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Author Talk with Peter Kupfer – The Glassmaker’s Son – Saturday, May 13 from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

5. From Michael Canales — Senior Center activities May 1 — 14

Yoga with Crystal: Town Hall gym on Monday & Thursday afternoon at 4:00pm

Walking Club with Chris and Nancy: Town Hall gym on Tuesday & Thursday mornings at 10:00am.

Chair Yoga: Heaton Court on Monday mornings at 10:00am

Sit & Knit a Bit: Town Hall COA with Roxanne McCaffrey, Wednesdays at 11:30am

Bingo: Town Hall COA, Tuesdays at 12:45pm 

Blood Pressure Clinics: 10:00am — First Tuesday of the month.

Special Events: A MATTER OF BALANCE is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am-12pm. To register please call: Breonna Cunningham (413) 499-0524 ext: 129 by May 9th

News

Key Takeaways from Stockbridge Bowl Stewardship Commission (SBSC), April 14, 2023

Jim Wilusz, Executive Director of Tri-Town Health, has resigned from SBSC.

SBSC discussed public awareness. To raise public awareness, SBSC will distribute informational brochures. One on the health of the lake will include: 

No fertilizers or chemical treatments (pesticides and herbicides) are permitted within 200 feet of Stockbridge Bowl. 

The use of pesticides requires a permit from Conservation Commission (ConCom). To minimize erosion, there must be a 35′ vegetative buffer — that means planting native plants and no cutting or mowing within 35′ of the water’s edge. An advantage, in addition to eliminating erosion, is that no mowing discourages the geese. 

Maintaining septic systems is vital to the health of the lake.

SBSC also discussed disposal of mattresses and paints and other materials.

News

Key Takeaways from Community Preservation Committee (CPC), April 18, 2023

Apparently the $300,000 set aside for purchase of the 315 acres on the side of Monument Mountain will not be needed. It will be taken off the Warrant and returned to the CPC undesignated fund. If anything changes before Town Meeting, it can be restored; otherwise, it will be available for a need that arises in open space, affordable housing, or historic preservation.

June Ralph and Jane Wolfe from Construct, Inc., on behalf of Pine Woods, turned down $50,000 for an engineering study to determine the extent of the needs at Pine Woods. Construct, Inc. requested additional funds necessary to complete the driveway (approved last year). Approved. Canales said approved with condition that Construct, Inc, signs a compliance contract. 

Also, Ralph and Wolfe asked about the possibility of floating a bond to raise approximately $3-5 million for other repairs. Not approved. 

Ranne Warner, Chair, Affordable Housing Trust, spoke in favor of an engineering study at Pine Woods to determine the full extent and cost of work needed.

News

Key Takeaways from the Finance Committee (FC), April 20, 2023

The FC reviewed the Budgets — capital and operating. They approved both budgets noting there was only a 1.3% over last year (Town Administrator noted it was $73,638 or an increase of .65% in expenditures only).

FC reviewed the Articles on the Warrant except items 9, 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 saying they were “not financial”. They noted that Article # 12 “To Transfer and Appropriate Funds, and Article # 15 Community Preservation Committee grants, expenditures were grouped together and voted on as a group. After the Article is read, the Town Moderator will ask if anyone wishes to “hold” any item in the group. The Article will be voted on as a whole. However, if there is a request to hold any item, that item will be pulled out of the Article — debated and voted on separately. Any Town Meeting attendee can request a hold.

FC approved all Articles on the Warrant except Article 20 – The Citizen’s Petition. They argued against the members of the FC being elected rather than appointed. Although one member acknowledged that voting is more democratic, we all appreciate the democratic process, he thought it would interrupt continuity. Other members said they would argue at Town Meeting in favor of keeping the current members of FC in place. The Chair stressed that the FC is apolitical. 

Editor’s notes: 1. Currently, members of the Finance Committee have terms and are re-appointed or not at the end of a term. The petition says – “The current members will complete their terms as specified and then run for membership on the committee in the election held that year if he/she so chooses.” Therefore the “continuity” of the FC will be identical and only the method by which they become members changes. 2. The Chair and members of FC actively support and put signs on their lawns in favor of a candidate. That is their right and an indication of their civic engagement, but is not apolitical.

Perspective

From the Desk of Superintendent Peter Dillon

Berkshire Hills Regional School District (BHRSD)

As we all get ready for Town Meeting, we’re eager to share our budget for approval in our three towns: Great Barrington, Stockbridge and West Stockbridge. As you may know, the School Committee unanimously approved our budget and each town’s Selectboard and Finance Committee endorsed it. Our budget is on our website and in each town library. We also have copies in my office. Increases are largely driven by contractual obligations, transportation contracts, and utility rates. We look forward to seeing you at Town Meeting.

We have some other great news. The Massachusetts School Building Authority voted this past Wednesday to let us proceed to the feasibility study phase for our high school project. This means that we will first hire an owner’s project manager and then architects/designers to evaluate possibilities for a new or renovated high school. They will work with two tests of numbers: 485 students for a three town high school and 620 students for a potential eight town high school. 

It will be great to have a building that supports our wonderful students. As college and post-secondary decisions are being finalized, we are seeing students chose some wonderful opportunities including: Cornell (3) Dartmouth (2), Tulane (2), Northeastern (2), Wesleyan, Wheaton, St. John’s, UMass Amherst (12), BCC (12), HVCC, Air Force, work at Haddad’s, and many others. We will be sharing our 5 year admissions report in the next month or so after seniors finalize their decisions. 

As always, feel free to reach out to me with any questions — Peter.Dillon@bhrsd.org 

For future updates, I’ll share some details on our shifts in learning and teaching and outcomes at the 9th and 10th grade levels.

Perspective

Can Granny Flats Help with Stockbridge’s Housing Affordability?

The character of Stockbridge and its heritage is what appeals to those of us who live here. 

However, the ability to maintain, rent, or buy a home is a struggle for many people. That is the reason I salute the Board of Selectmen and Planning Board members who during the last year have been discussing a proposed bylaw that will enable property owners to add new separate living spaces in single-family homes or in existing outbuildings.

These spaces are called Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), or “granny flats” which are secondary to and smaller than the main house and have a separate entrance, kitchen, and bathroom.

An updated bylaw would provide an opportunity to convert unused spaces, perhaps a second floor, basement, or a barn into small (less than 900 square feet) apartments that can produce income if they are rented or provide children a place to live while they save to purchase their own home. After selling her large home, I have a friend who is using her equity to convert a space in her daughter’s house into a small but efficient ADU, supporting intergenerational living.

There are numerous advantages to these units. They have minimal local service costs, use fewer resources to build than new construction, and can provide income allowing homeowners to make needed improvements, and/or pay property taxes, etc.

If you follow the debate at the recent Selectmen’s meeting, you understand the challenges in developing a bylaw to allow ADUs while ensuring neighborhood safeguards and determining residency requirements. 

In the latest census data, Stockbridge is listed as an Environmental Justice Community because of census blocks with a median income annually of approximately $31,875. While residents, who are struggling financially, may not be vocal at meetings, I am glad to live in a community with leadership that works for inclusiveness and urges leaders to continue to plug away at finding ways to keep Norman Rockwell’s diverse hometown alive.

by Christine Rasmussen

Perspective

A Homeowner is a Homeowner is a Homeowner

From what I hear, the tug-of-war between primary homeowners and second homeowners continues in terms of perceived rights and even status. (‘We’ve been here longer than you’) This is unfortunate; indeed, unnecessary.

I’ve been part of our second homeowners’ community since 1950 — the year I was born — when my parents bought a cottage on Mah-Kee-Nac Shores. Fishing on The Bowl was too irresistible to my father to pass up and Tanglewood, too magnetic for my mother to ignore.

Of course, I had no idea what a “homeowner” was at the time, let alone a second homeowner. As I grew up, all homeowners seemed the same. Primary and secondary were incidental labels. The local man who mowed our lawn became my father’s friend and shared the occasional Scotch with him when work was done. Our small community had a few full-time residents as well as us part-timers. We all got along pretty well.

Today, I count among our friends a few part-time residents as well as several full-time residents. In my eyes, they are all interesting people, worthy of spending time with. Why? Because they — we — share similar values when it comes to Stockbridge; among them:

We appreciate the town’s physical beauty, as the blessing it is. 

We honor the celebrated history of Stockbridge, as a unique aspect of our community. 

We respect the place Stockbridge holds in the cultural landscape of America, as a shared touchstone. 

We care about ensuring a quality education for our children, without which our town will languish. 

We serve our community in various ways — volunteering on town committees (my wife), picking up litter on Averic Road (us), ushering at Tanglewood (others).

The differences that may exist between primary and second homeowners (e.g., voting rights) pale by comparison to the similarities that make us one. And, highlighting distinctions between these groups does a disservice to both.

To my way of thinking, a homeowner is a homeowner. Period.

by Larry Ackerman

Perspective

8 Town Regional School District Planning Board Update

by Lucy Prashker, Chair of the 8 Town Regional School District Planning Board (RSBDPB) and Jake Eberwein, RSDPB Project Manager

Merger Model under Consideration: In April 2022, the 8 Town Board voted to continue to develop the merger model recommended by our research team — merging the Berkshire Hills Regional School District and the Southern Berkshire Regional School District into a single preK-12 district, maintaining the existing elementary and middle schools as they are, but creating a new merged 9-12 high school to be built on the Great Barrington campus. 

Progress on 8 Town Regional School District Agreement. Since our February 2023 update, the 8 Town Board has made substantial progress. Except for assessment methodologies (which continue under board deliberation), the board has reached agreement on most of the substantive provisions. We have reached agreement on new school committee governance, district transition provisions, and which issues would require a 2/3 supermajority school committee vote (including votes to approve school budgets and incur debt, any vote to amend the regional agreement, and any vote to close a school). 

On school closures, the Board agreed on a detailed process that would have to be followed before any school committee vote. It also agreed that in addition to a supermajority at the school committee level (with a requirement that the majority include affirmative votes from school committee representatives in 6 of the 8 towns), any vote to close a school would need to be approved by the voters of 6 of the 8 member towns. The Board also agreed to include provisions that would allow for intra-district choice. Parents would have the option to keep their children in their existing schools through all grade levels offered in that school (and associated middle grades) even if that school were not the one in closest proximity to their home. Intra-district choice would also be available to students to attend programs unique to a school, and, subject to seat availability, for general family preferences.

Finance Subcommittee Recommendation on Assessment Methodologies. At the April 11 board meeting, our finance subcommittee presented its recommendation on how costs of a merged district would be assessed across its 8 member towns. The methodologies cover operating costs (always the largest share of a town’s assessment), capital costs generally, and capital costs for construction of a new high school in Great Barrington. The full presentation of that finance subcommittee recommendation is posted on the 8towns.org website HERE. The finance subcommittee vote in favor of the recommendation was unanimous among the 5 voting members of the subcommittee, and 9-1 among the 10 RSDPB members who actively participated in the finance subcommittee deliberations (which spanned 14 meetings over 9 months). Full board deliberations on the recommended methodologies will begin at the next board meeting on May 3.

by by Lucy Prashker, and Jake Eberwein

Perspective

The Housatonic Rest of River Municipal Committee (ROR)

On January 11, 2023, ROR’s town-appointed representatives from Stockbridge, Great Barrington, Sheffield, Lee, and Lenox and Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) discussed their plans to act as an intervenor against the Housatonic River Initiative (HRI) and the Housatonic Environmental Action League (HEAL) in their First Circuit Court of Appeals case against General Electric (GE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). HRI and HEAL oppose creating a toxic PCB dump in Lee, less than two miles from thickly settled neighborhoods, businesses, and schools.

On March 22, BRPC explained to the Committee: “one of the reasons we filed a separate brief as an intervenor (and not an amicus) was to allow us to participate in oral argument” (source: http://bit.ly/rorprr4-6-23). 

The Committee summarized this action as “Approval of Expenditure of Funds” on their March 27 meeting agenda. Public comments took place only before the Committee began discussing to fund intervening against the Berkshires environmental organizations (video: https://bit.ly/ror3-27-23; password: Sba23%&@).

An Open Meeting Law violation complaint was filed against ROR for their March 27 agenda. When the Committee convened to review the complaint on April 13, they didn’t allow public comments and refused to record the Zoom meeting. The Lee Representative’s motion to allow public comments died for lack of a second. Rather, the Stockbridge representative asked the Chair to mute the public (15:30-17:00 and again at 27:00-27:30 of this permitted recording: https://bit.ly/ror4-13-23). 

The Committee’s response (http://bit.ly/ror4-13-23response) said: “As advised by counsel, the Committee understands that under the Open Meeting Law, the topics provided on meeting notices must have ‘sufficient specificity to reasonably advise the public of the issues to be discussed at the meeting.’…The Attorney General’s Division of Open Government (which enforces the Open Meeting Law) generally considers a topic sufficiently specific when a reasonable member of the public could read the topic and understand the anticipated nature of the public body’s discussion…Going forward, the Committee’s staff will clarify on this type of topic additional details about the nature of the expenditure proposed under consideration by the Committee such as: 6. Approval of Expenditure of Funds for Additional Legal Work on Rest of River Cleanup Litigation.” 

On April 19, Lee’s Select Board sent the Stockbridge Select Board a letter asking “that the Lee Select Board have the opportunity to speak to your Board regarding the ROR situation at an open public meeting this spring.” Read the entire the letter at http://bit.ly/leelettertoneighbors

Josh Bloom is a Lee Resident

by Josh Bloom

Perspective

The Great Barrington Kennel Club

Did you know that the Berkshires has a Kennel Club? This seems to be one of the “lights under a bushel” — a hidden treasure. Since 1941, The Great Barrington Kennel Club has served the area as the only American Kennel Club-affiliated club. “Sharing a passion for dogs”, the club holds meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 7pm via Zoom. The public is always welcome. Membership is open to anyone meeting the club’s requirements. 

The club also hosts various events such as our all-breed dog shows held on the first weekend in February at the Big E in Springfield. These shows, culminating in the famed Best in Show each day, boast more than 1100 dogs of more than 160 breeds strutting their stuff for all to see. While these shows used to be held locally, the convenience and shelter of the Big E has become the norm for most clubs in the Northeast. Spectators are always welcome, and can usually connect with a breeder who will be willing to share knowledge about their individual breed.

GBKC also holds performance events including Scent Work, Barn Hunt, Happy Ratters, Responsible Dog Owners’ Day, and Tracking Clinics, among others. While the all-breed show is a conformation event open only to AKC-registered pure-bred dogs, the performance events are open to mix breeds as well. 

GBKC encourages the responsible breeding of purebred dogs with an emphasis on health clearances. We also encourage rescues from reputable organizations, such as the Berkshire Humane Society. Most breeds have parent clubs that evaluate and foster rescues and are an excellent resource for finding a pure-bred dog that will suit your needs. It is critical that prospective dog owners do their research before entering into a life-long commitment with a dog. How much will it weigh? How big will it get? How much exercise does the breed need? Is it a dog suited to small spaces or homes with young children? Does the breed shed? Drool? All these questions and more are fundamental to a happy outcome with your new furry friend. Or, if you’re adventurous, you can adopt a rescue, but be prepared for surprises!

GBKC also presents speakers on various topics from how to train for a performance event to how to care for a senior dog, as well as various health concerns. Scheduling for these talks can be found on the club’s Facebook page or website. (gbkc.net).

Editor’s note: Underwood-Miller is President of GBKC For additional information contact her at sunderwoodmiller@aol.com

by Sally Underwood-Miller

Analysis

Key Takeaways from the Board of Assessors (BOA), April 18, 2023

All abatements and exemptions to be granted are complete — no more this period. 

There was a 100% response from the nonprofits. 

The Assessor suggested that if there is an annual expense, such as software updates and consultant to estimate tax of utilizes, be part of the budget and not an Article on the Warrant. There seemed to be general agreement. However, the Assessor added, Town Administrator said the Warrant was done for this Town Meeting so would have to be a change for next year.

SB approved BOA’s three suggestions for lower taxes for seniors: lower age to qualify from 70 to 65; increase deduction from $500 – $1000, lower the interest rate paid on deferred taxes from 8% to 5%, and raise allowable income to qualify. They will appear on the Warrant for Town approval.

Announcements

45th Annual Contemporary Sculpture Show

Featuring the work of Ron Mehlman will open at Chesterwood on May 27 — October 23 every day except Tuesdays 10am to 5pm.

Chesterwood, a National Trust for Historic Preservation site, is one of the earliest venues in the United States to showcase large-scale works in an outdoor setting. Since 1978, Chesterwood has exhibited sculpture by more than 600 emerging and established artists. This year Chesterwood presents Finding the Center: Ron Mehlman at Chesterwood.

Finding the Center will feature twelve sculptures sited throughout the landscape along with a display of forty sculptural reliefs and five standing sculptures within the Woodland Gallery.

Guest curator, Michele Cohen, Ph. D., curator for the Architect of the Capitol, Washington, D.C. and public sculpture scholar, states that when she first encountered Mehlman’s work in the 1980s in a mid-town, Manhattan Plaza, she noticed “how the work successfully wed granite and glass, light and water to create a sculpture that was both timeless and fleeting.” Cohen selected the works to showcase sculptor Mehlman’s creative journey with stone and glass. 

A native New Yorker, Mehlman divides his time between Pietrasanta, Italy, the famed stone and marble center of Italy, and his workshop in the “Venice of Brooklyn” the Gowanus Canal area. Mehlman is a Professor Emeritus at Brooklyn College, has exhibited frequently in New York City, Italy and France, and was awarded the prestigious International Sculptor’s award from the City of Pietrasanta. 

Mehlman states “To be exhibiting my work in this iconic sculpture park is indeed an exciting venture. The ghost of Daniel Chester French, his colleagues and family, imbue this area with an inspiring focus on sculpture. As my work changes with light and atmosphere, I can’t think of a more beautiful backdrop than this Berkshire landscape.”

Cohen states, “Mehlman’s sculptural language derives from a geometry based on interlocking puzzle-like slabs, layering, repetition, textural and color contrasts, negative space, and the combination of natural and man-made.”

Interim Executive Director, Margaret Cherin, states “Mehlman’s mindful selection of specific stones drives his creative process, with beautiful results and a reverence for the stone. Experiencing Mehlman’s work against the backdrop of Chesterwood’s landscape, and in juxtaposition with the sculpture of Daniel Chester French, will prove to be both inspiring and illuminating.”

Entry to Chesterwood is by ticket only. Either Grounds-Only or Guided Tour tickets can be reserved online or upon arrival.

A fully illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition with a map and checklist with prices.

For additional information, contact Margaret Cherin, Interim Director at 413-298-2034 or

mcherin@chesterwood.org

by Margaret Cherin

The Last Word

Reader to Reader

Dear Carole 

This is a reply to the recent letter from Joseph Newberg regarding the Finance Committee, an advisory body to the Select Board. We have had the same elected Moderator appointing, and in some cases abruptly unappointing, members without public input for more than 40 years. The system is hardly a hallmark of democracy, and it seems people are concerned.

As I recall, the FC wrote its own “Report to the Town” in 2020, apparently without notice to the Select Board, and before warrant articles had been fully reviewed and made public by the SB. Its rather dire predictions seemed to be seeking to influence town opinion ahead of the election and the Town Meeting. The Select Board acted as the “watchdog” over its FC advisors in this case after the SB Chair learned of the report. 

It’s not always easy to fill these positions, but that is an issue whether we elect them or not. The current group of appointees appears competent but not exactly apolitical, in my opinion, though an apolitical group might be a tall order in any community. Having the Select Board fill vacancies is no more political than having the Moderator do so, with the added plus of have our top three elected officials debate the appointments in light of their generally closer familiarity with the full range of issues facing the community. 

Voting is still an act of self-governance. There is nothing radical about it. It undermines only authoritarian rule. I am concerned about the difficulties of filling these FC positions, but this is a problem either way. 

It’s not easy to make appointing the Finance Committee look more like democracy than voting for it. I’m not sure that Mr. Newberg has succeeded. 

Bruce Blair 

To the Editor:

The 8 Town Regional School District Planning Board’s latest update is attached. The board and its subcommittees are meeting frequently to develop a regional school district agreement and recommendations on how costs could be assessed across the eight towns. If the proposed merger and agreement are approved by the board, the 8 towns will vote at special town meetings this fall. 

Timeline: The 8 Town board is targeting late May/early June for a vote on a recommendation on the proposed merger and a proposed regional agreement. If the board votes in favor of merger, that recommendation would be put before the voters at special town meetings to be held this fall to allow for additional community education and outreach.

Please let us know if you have any questions. Thank you for your ongoing coverage in Stockbridge Updates.

GET THE FACTS. BE INFORMED. YOU DECIDE.

Best regards,

Mary Nash
RSDPB Community Outreach

To the Editor:

As a Berkshire native, I have known Patrick White (incumbent Select Board Member currently running for re-election) for nearly 50 years. Yesterday, Patrick posted a heartfelt video on Facebook and YouTube outlining why he is running again for the same position. I listened to the whole clip, and I’m compelled to share that I’m proud of who Patrick has become, what he stands for, what he’s accomplished, but most importantly, I’m proud of his outlook and dreams for Stockbridge. Although I do not live in Stockbridge, I am a second homeowner in the Berkshires, I firmly believe he is exactly what Stockbridge needs right now in leadership. Patrick is deeply committed, hardworking and as honest as they come. Keep up the great work Pat! 

Tori Gabriel

To the Editor:

Since the town of Stockbridge was formed three Select board members have collectively represented the wishes of our town. This process has worked well, as the three members need to discuss and agree on important projects, expenditures and other items that will affect all residents.

The election this May will result in a continuation of the effort for all three selectboard members to agree on what will take place in our town and that is the reason why I and my wife are voting for Roxanne McCaffrey. 

During her previous term as one of our representatives, Roxanne worked with her fellow members, and did not try to “shove her personal agenda down the throats” of her fellow members, or our town.

Roxanne McCaffrey knows that it takes all three members to decide what is best for Stockbridge, and while something may take a little longer to accomplish, she understands that this is how it has, and should continue to work for our town.

This is why we are voting for her this year. It is time to return to having our selectboard working TOGETHER for the best interests of Stockbridge. 

Please join us in voting FOR Roxanne McCaffrey.

Jim & Shelley Balfanz

Editor’s note: With a three-member Select Board, it only takes two votes to pass or quash any measure with the exception of a vote on a special permit which does require 3 votes to pass.

To the Editor:

I am writing to endorse Patrick White for the Stockbridge Select Board. While I am no longer a resident, I lived in Stockbridge for eighteen years and also served on the ZBA in town. I am no stranger to the workings of the town and view the community with great fondness and esteem. My good friends there can attest to this.

The good folks of Stockbridge are very fortunate to have Patrick working for them. I can testify to his commitment to both preserving those qualities that make Stockbridge unique, as well as pursuing innovative solutions to contemporary challenges. His is an expansive view of the community, reaching out to locals, second home owners, shop keepers, nonprofits, and all the various interests that make up Stockbridge today. He does his homework and due diligence. He walks into meetings prepared in all ways: to propose ideas, to listen, to find compromise, to find solutions. When facing adversity, his response is thoughtful, measured and even conciliatory when called for. am now a member of the Select Board in neighboring Lee. I have come to rely upon my friend, Patrick, for his consul, his experience, his wisdom, and his innovative thinking when pondering issues where we share common cause. He is a reliable resource who has my deepest respect. 

I encourage my Stockbridge neighbors and friends to support Patrick White in his quest to continue serving you. He has earned his place at that table.

Sincerely,

Bob Jones 

To the Editor:

I strongly endorse Patrick White who is running for re-election as a Stockbridge Selectman. As the former Race Director of the Josh Billings Triathlon I found Patrick to be incredibly helpful and supportive of the race. While dealing with new logistics for the Josh over the past few years, I often turned to Patrick for advice on Stockbridge rules and regulations and was grateful for his advice in aligning me with the best contacts on the town boards and town departments. I knew I could count on Patrick to help the Josh Billings navigate and resolve complex town issues. Patrick’s desire to help and his skills as an organizer make him very qualified to continue as a Town of Stockbridge Selectman. 

I support Patrick White for re-election, and I hope you will give him your vote on May 16. 

Patty Spector

Dear Stockbridge Updates readers: 

I’m supporting Patrick White for Stockbridge Board of Selectmen.

I’ve known Patrick White for more than 5 years — as a fellow Laurel Hill Board Trustee, Treasurer of the Waldorf School where Patrick works part-time, and a fellow volunteer to manage the Town’s Municipal Vulnerability Program (climate change impacts in Stockbridge).

Patrick is caring, competent and hard-working. He values and cherishes the Stockbridge community – people, businesses, special cultural institutions, history, and environment.

Patrick attends numerous neighborhood meetings to listen and discuss residents’ (mostly part-time) concerns. He is a strong proponent for ways to ensure that seniors can remain in their homes. He initiated the effort to save the old growth hemlocks in Ice Glen. He volunteered to operate the weed harvester on Stockbridge Bowl. 

Patrick works conscientiously to bring people together to face problems and work on important issues. During his tenure as Selectman, he successfully proposed an increase in the occupancy tax to decrease property taxes. This year, his budget review and recommendations to the Finance Committee will result in lower tax assessments. Even when things don’t go his way, Patrick is a gentleman.

I appreciate that Patrick values and practices transparency in government. He attends so many board and committee meetings — to ensure he is aware of the issues and accomplishments of dedicated community volunteers. He acts ethically and respects the Open Meeting Law. He championed efforts to ensure that public meetings are available both in person and on zoom so that all full and part-time residents can participate. He is available every day, all day to respond to issues – large and small. I have never seen Patrick more happy than when he has helped someone with a problem.

Be it a ‘Woof-a-thon’ on Stockbridge Bowl, a picnic for the Town sponsored by Laurel Hill Association and Stockbridge Bowl Association, or a Stockbridge tradition like the Memorial Day and Veterans Day Parades, Patrick loves bringing people together. 

May 16 is election day in Stockbridge — Please vote.

Laura Dubester

Good Afternoon to All,

My name is Robert T. Leverett. Below are some of my credits. 

1. Cofounder of the Native Tree Society
2. County coordinator for the Old-Growth Forest Network.
3. Senior advisor to American Forests on the National Champion Tree Program
4. Coauthor of the Sierra Guide to Ancient Forests of the Northeast 
5. Chair of Massachusetts DCR’s Forest Reserves Science Advisory Committee
6. Cofounder and President, Friends of Mohawk Trail State Forest 

I’d like to call to your attention to the leadership role of Patrick White, Chair, Board of Selectmen for Stockbridge, in championing the old growth in Ice Glen and securing recognition and getting treatment for the ancient hemlocks and mature white ash trees there. As you all may know, the Glen is a priceless ecological relic of forests past with historical ties to the Mohican Nation and even literary figures like Herman Melville. Over the years, we’ve carefully mapped out the areas of old growth and mature second growth and I will attest that both are exceptional natural resources of which we can be proud. However, our remaining isolated forested gems like Ice Glen don’t protect themselves. They are always vulnerable to direct and indirect negative influences, often of human origin. Alien invasives like the hemlock wooley adelgid, elongate hemlock scale, and the emerald ash borer and native pests like hemlock looper represented terminal threats to the Glen’s trees that have lived between 200 and 400 years. Treating them was not an option, but we needed a leader, and Patrick White rose to the occasion. 

Over the course of 30 years, I’ve taken many groups and individuals through the Glen on interpretive walks. Also while gathering data, e.g. measuring a tree, people have stopped and inquired to what I was seeing or doing. When I explained to them what a special forest Ice Glen possessed, I could see their faces light up and often one or more would state that they always knew the place was truly special. But then came the insect pests and the days were numbered for those ancient trees. Time to save them was limited. A leader was needed and Patrick White proved to be that person. All of us who value these original forest remnants are grateful to Patrick and want to call everyone’s attention to his leadership in saving the ancient trees of the Glen.

Best to all of you, Bob Leverett

Carole…

I am pleased to endorse Patrick White for a second term on the Stockbridge Select Board. 

He’s proven himself to be an effective advocate for Stockbridge and its residents. It does not matter whether you are a year-rounder or a second-home owner, own a grand house or rent a modest apartment, Patrick treats you with respect and listens to your suggestions for how to improve the town. Whether he agrees with you or not, he seeks everyone’s opinion … and values it.

Patrick White is probably the most enthusiastic and energetic guy I know, devoted to sustaining and improving our town. He combines broad knowledge of local bylaws with innovative thinking to explore new opportunities for Stockbridge. He’s open-minded, courageous, and genuinely cares about other people … without prejudice. 

Patrick has worked selflessly for our town, proven his commitment to protect our environment and preserve open spaces, and deserves to be re-elected to the Select Board on May 16th.

Barney Edmonds

Dear Carole,

My experience working in local government for over thirty years makes me realize that few, if any proposals that come before committees are acceptable to everyone.

Nonetheless, we elect our representatives because we expect them to make an effort. We expect them to put forth ideas to improve our communities, invite and field the criticisms and pushback, and have the courage and perseverance to return with the original idea improved through the dialogue.

During these three most difficult pandemic years, Chairman of the Stockbridge Selectboard Patrick White has shown himself to be one of those elected officials whom you can count on to do just that. He is indefatigable; he is smart, and he will listen to you. Vote for Patrick White.

Charles Kenny

To Stockbridge Updates Readers:

Please consider voting Patrick White for reelection to the Stockbridge Select Board.

Patrick is a forward thinker, a spirited planner, and is engaged with all the town’s residents as well as all the town’s boards and employees. He is in tune with the Town’s needs on a daily basis.

As a Selectperson, he is present, approachable, reactive, responsive, and accountable in his daily duties on the Stockbridge Select Board.

I am confident that Stockbridge is in good hands and will continue moving forward positively into the future with Patrick reelection for another 3-year term. 

Gary Pitney

To the Editor:

I’ll be voting for Patrick White for Select Board. He has shown that he represents the voters of Stockbridge and has their best interests when decisions are required. When a subject comes before the board that requires him to recuse himself, he does so, unlike his opponent who didn’t and only recused herself after the town counsel suggested it.

Michael Roisman

Photography

Gallery: Xavier Letteron