On Friday night at the City of Pittsfield's Lichtenstein Center for the Arts, Mayor James Ruberto issued an official proclamation—proudly held (left) by Jason Verchot and Dana Bixby of the Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition— declaring it Out in the Berkshires Weekend. It began: "Whereas the city of Pittsfield prides itself on being a welcome, open and supportive community to all of its residents and visitors, gay or straight, of any race or ethnicity, religious background or economic class and, Whereas the city of Pittsfield is proud of its many gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender residents . . ." There were thunderous applause for the mayor after he read the entire proclamation at the opening reception for the "Out in the Berkshires" art show, which featured the art of regional LGBTQ artists.
Kay Canavino and Carl Hansen; Shani London-Kane with Jesse Suphan
Michael Kusek a publicist whose clients include Infinity Hall in Norfolk, with Mount Holyoke equestrian coach James Morris and Pittsfield Mayor James Ruberto.
Pittsfield director of cultural development Megan Whilden and artist Scott Cole who owns Caffe Pomo d'Oro in West Stockbridge; Blue Q's Paul Boulais and Pittsfield City Councilor Pete White
Jeanet Ingals and Timothy Kushi; Derek Hansen and Jim Terryberry
Autumn Doyle and Jennifer Usher, who runs the costume shop at Castleton State College.
Tavia Ito and Judey Trasher; John Kight and Spencer Miller
Sue Geller, Peter Bergman of the Millay Society and sculptor Joe Wheaton; Jeff Brace of the Berkshire Writers Room with Joe Durwin and Pittsfield Contemporary's Jay Elling.
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Matteline deVries-Dilling, founder of Lite Brite Neon, one of the evening's honoree of this year's Upstate Benefit adresses the gala from the Caboose's caboose.
- Karen Pearson. Courtesy Art Omi.
Olana senior vice president and landscape curatorMark Prezorski, president Sean Sawyer, The evenings honoree Kristin Gamble and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett.
- Oxygen House Photo
