Press

GREAT BARRINGTON — The fifth annual Du Bois Forum brought historians, scholars, artists, and community members together for a weekend of walking tours, discussions, and reflection on the life and legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois.

The annual gathering explored Du Bois’s lasting influence on history, civil rights, and public scholarship while highlighting the importance of preserving Black history and fostering conversations that connect the past to the present.

CHESTER — Chester Theatre Company’s production of Fannie brings the remarkable life of civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer to the stage through a moving performance that highlights her courage, resilience, and fight for voting rights.

The production explores Hamer’s journey from sharecropper to one of the most influential voices of the Civil Rights Movement, offering audiences a powerful look at her enduring legacy and the impact of her activism.

PITTSFIELD — Ricardo Reeves is finding purpose and peace through gardening, turning his Pittsfield yard into a vibrant space filled with flowers, vegetables, and community connection.

Reeves’ passion for gardening has grown into more than a hobby. It has become a way to connect with neighbors, share fresh produce, and create beauty in his community. His story highlights the joy and fulfillment that can come from tending the land and giving back to those around him.

BERKSHIRE COUNTY — Local blues band Misty Blues shared the stage with legendary guitarist Buddy Guy during a recent performance, turning an unexpected invitation into a career-defining moment.

The collaboration highlighted the band’s decades-long commitment to the blues and underscored the growing recognition of Berkshire musicians on the national stage.

PITTSFIELD — Army Reserve Sgt. Rachel Hailey is being recognized in a Veteran Spotlight for her service, dedication, and continued commitment to both her military duties and her local community.

Hailey’s story highlights her time in the U.S. Army Reserve and the role she has played in supporting her unit while balancing life and responsibilities at home. The feature honors her service and reflects ongoing efforts to recognize local veterans across the Berkshires.

GREAT BARRINGTON — The Du Bois Freedom Center is celebrating Resident Historian Marcus P. Smith, who has received the 2026 History Tellers Award for his work preserving and sharing Black history through education, research, and community engagement.

The national award recognizes Smith’s contributions to historic preservation and public history, including his leadership at the Du Bois Freedom Center and his efforts to document and amplify Black heritage across the country.

PITTSFIELD — The Pittsfield School Committee recently appointed Latifah Phillips to fill a vacant seat, bringing a new voice to the committee as it continues its work supporting students, families, and schools across the district.

Phillips will join other committee members in helping guide decisions that impact Pittsfield Public Schools. The appointment reflects the committee’s ongoing efforts to serve the needs of the community and support student success.

PITTSFIELD — A community Juneteenth celebration in Pittsfield recently brought residents together to honor freedom, history, and culture through music, reflection, and local programming.

The event highlighted the meaning of Juneteenth while creating space for community members to gather, learn, and celebrate together. Families, organizations, and local leaders came together to recognize the importance of the holiday and its continued relevance today.

BOSTON — State Representatives Leigh Davis and Bud L. Williams have filed legislation to establish August 22 as Elizabeth Freeman Day of Equality, Healing, and Remembrance in Massachusetts. The proposed observance would honor the life and legacy of Elizabeth Freeman, also known as Mum Bett, whose successful freedom suit in 1781 helped pave the way for the abolition of slavery in the Commonwealth.

The legislation would create an annual opportunity for residents, schools, community organizations, and local governments to reflect on Freeman’s contributions to Massachusetts history and the ongoing pursuit of equality, justice, and human dignity. Freeman’s story remains a significant part of Berkshire County’s history, where her fight for freedom helped shape the Commonwealth’s future.

ADAMS — Chef Xavier Jones of Bigg Daddy’s Philly Steak House is launching a new dinner series at Revival House in Adams, bringing together bold flavors, creativity, and community through a unique dining experience. The series will showcase Jones’ culinary talents while offering guests an opportunity to enjoy thoughtfully prepared meals in an intimate setting.

The collaboration highlights the growing local food scene and provides a platform for innovative chefs to share their craft with Berkshire County diners. Through this new series, guests can experience fresh menus, local hospitality, and the passion that has made Jones a well-known figure in the region’s culinary community.

PITTSFIELD — Graduates of African heritage from across Berkshire County were recently recognized for their academic achievements, leadership, and contributions to their schools and communities. The annual celebration honored students as they prepare to take the next steps in their educational and professional journeys.

The event highlighted the hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments of local graduates while bringing together families, educators, and community members to celebrate their success and future potential.

PITTSFIELD — Taconic High School athlete Romeo Yankey earned a third-place finish in the 200-meter dash at the state championships, adding another impressive accomplishment to a strong track and field season. The standout performance highlights both Yankey’s speed and dedication as he competed against some of the top athletes in Massachusetts.

Yankey’s success continues to bring recognition to Taconic’s track and field program and reflects the talent and hard work of Berkshire County student-athletes competing on the state stage.

PITTSFIELD — Community members across the Berkshires are remembering Rev. Charles Pratt for his lasting impact, generosity, and dedication to helping others throughout his life and ministry. Known by many as a compassionate leader and community advocate, Pratt was widely recognized for the support and care he offered to those around him.

Friends, family, and local residents have reflected on his commitment to service, faith, and uplifting the community, honoring a legacy rooted in kindness, mentorship, and connection that touched countless lives throughout Pittsfield and beyond.

Berkshire artist Maleek Adams was recently featured while creating a large mural at Uniq Vape in Lanesborough.

Using an airbrush to add highlights and detail, Adams continues contributing to the region’s visual arts scene through large-scale mural work and public art.

The Berkshire International Film Festival will present a screening of Unfinished Song, a documentary highlighting the life and artistic journey of acclaimed Berkshire-based performer Wanda Houston.

The film explores Houston’s lifelong connection to music, performance, and community, offering audiences an intimate look at her career, personal experiences, and enduring impact on the Berkshires arts scene.

A celebration honoring the legacy and impact of African American composers will take place as part of the Pittsfield CityJazz Festival, highlighting the lasting contributions of Black composers across classical and contemporary music traditions.

The performance will showcase a range of musical styles and works, offering audiences an opportunity to experience the creativity, innovation, and cultural influence of African American artistry throughout history.

NORTH ADAMS — Air Force Master Sgt. Mark Gilliard is being recognized in a Veteran Spotlight feature highlighting his military service, leadership, and continued impact within the community.

The story reflects on Gilliard’s dedication during his time in the Air Force and the experiences that shaped his path, while also honoring the contributions veterans continue to make both during and after their service.

WILLIAMSTOWN — Cécile McLorin Salvant, a Grammy Award-winning artist, will deliver the keynote address at Williams College’s 237th commencement, bringing her unique perspective as a composer and storyteller to this year’s graduating class.

Organizers say her work, which blends jazz with diverse musical traditions, reflects the creativity and depth of expression celebrated at commencement, highlighting the role of the arts in shaping culture and community.

LENOX — Jazz trumpeter Jumaane Smith returns to Tanglewood’s Linde Center on May 8, bringing his high-energy blend of jazz, blues, and soul back to the Berkshires by popular demand.

The performance highlights Smith’s dynamic style as both a bandleader and collaborator, while also connecting with the community through student engagement and live performance, showcasing the continued growth of jazz programming at Tanglewood.

GREAT BARRINGTON — Multicultural BRIDGE will host a full day of Earth Day 2026 activities at the Solidarity House, bringing together community members for hands-on environmental action and learning.

Organizers say the event will highlight the connections between environmental justice, public health, and cultural equity, while celebrating the launch of the next phase of Solidarity Farm and fostering community engagement around sustainability.