Rachel Louchen reports from Pittsfield. Neither rain nor the threat of blackouts prevented more than 300 people from gathering at the Masonic Temple on Thursday, November 1, for the fifth annual Taste of the Berkshires benefit. Thrown by the Junior League of Berkshire County, the evening showcased food and beverages provided by local restaurants and businesses. All proceeds of the event are donated to programs which serve the community, such as CurlUp with a Good Book, where the organization goes into local elementary schools and reads to students and their families. (An informational meeting for potential members will be held on Tuesday, November 13, at 6:00 at JLB offices on the 6th floor of the Berkshire Eagle building.) Says Treasurer Christian Goodchild, “We are always looking for people in the community who would like to give back — or for members to receive training so that they can go branch out on their own and make a difference.” At left; James Burden and Meghan Harrison doled out savory treats from Mission Bar + Tapas.
Steve Valotta with JLB member Candace Morey; Jason Dennis and Kollin Kozlowski pouring for Kelly's Package Store.
Perigee of Lee staffers Nick Watroba and Nick Litano; Sarah's Cheesecake ensured that guests with a sweet tooth were well provided for.
Good eats: Joyce Bernstein and Dana Audia of Spice Dragon.
Big Elm Brewing's Christina Heaton and Jen Jaehnig provided the hops; Allison Krol with her husband, John Krol, and Stacey Carver, one of the events sponsors.
Mark Albano with wife, JLB member, Mia and daughter, Reese with Mike Carlotto; Milltown Tavern's Barbara West and Roe Chapman.
JLB President Karen Rogers with fundraising coordinator Jessica Shandler and member, Melinda Walter.
Nicole Nichols, Nathan Carter and Donna Turner enjoy their meals; Sarah Sayers, Rachelle Noel and Kaitlin Sayers of Sarah's Cheesecake.
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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
