Next week, the House will consider HB 4820, an economic-development bill that would merge HEFA into MassDevelopment on October 1, 2010 and create a single agency to issue tax-exempt bonds for nonprofits in Massachusetts.

The bill would bring together in one agency the ability of MassDevelopment and HEFA to leverage private dollars to promote economic growth in the Commonwealth. It would save money while maintaining access to low-cost financing for nonprofits across the Commonwealth. During the last three fiscal years, MassDevelopment issued 269 bonds totaling $5.2 billion in par amount. Of these, 180 tallying more than $4.5 billion were for nonprofits. HEFA issued 122 bonds tallying more than $8 billion with three universities representing nearly $3 billion of the HEFA issues. No public money is put at risk, but the public benefits from jobs and economic activity generated by the projects while you save on interest rates.

Another plus: the fees MassDevelopment earns issuing bonds allow us to reinvest in the Commonwealth and its families by making loans and grants to area businesses and non-profits; helping cities and towns revitalize neighborhoods; and redeveloping blighted surplus state and federal properties. In the past three years, we made 183 loans and loan guarantees to small businesses and nonprofits totaling more than $120 million, of which more than $32 million was for small nonprofits. In the first six months of FY10, we made $22 million in loans to Massachusetts businesses, both for-profit and not-for-profit. At a time when banks had tightened credit, MassDevelopment continued to make loans.

Since 1998 when the Legislature created MassDevelopment by merging the Massachusetts Industrial Finance Agency and the Government Land Bank, MassDevelopment has served both for-profit and nonprofit organizations and in doing so saved them billions in borrowing costs. Merging MassDevelopment and HEFA will eliminate duplication of services, result in economies of scale, and provide even greater returns to the employers and people of Massachusetts.

I ask that you call your representatives in the House to support MassDevelopment. Visit www.mass.gov/legis/city_town.htm for a list of legislators by municipality.

Please call me at 617.330.2056, if you have any questions. Nonprofits are a key component of our economy. We value the work you do and pledge to redouble our efforts to help you expand and innovate by delivering efficient services to keep your borrowing costs low. Thank you for supporting MassDevelopment. I look forward to continuing our work with you to promote economic development in Massachusetts.

JUNE

CALDERA ARTIST RESIDENCY OPPORTUNITIES: Call for Applications

Deadline: June 15, 2010.

Caldera in Portland, OR, is offering residences of two to four weeks to playwrights, actors, and directors, as well as all other types of writers and performers during December 2010–March 2011.

ESCAPE TO CREATE: Call for Residency Applications

Deadline: June 15, 2010

Escape to Create offers two four-week residencies in the town of Seaside, FL, to artists working in the literary arts, musical composition, scholarship, and visual and interdisciplinary arts, who have distinguished themselves in their particular field. 2011 Escape to Create residencies will take place in the months of January and February.

EASTERN STATE  PENITENTIARY: Call for Site-Specific Installation Proposal

Deadline: June 15, 2010

Eastern State Penitentiary is now accepting proposals from artists for site-specific installations at the Penitentiary, a ruin and National Historic Landmark in Philadelphia. A maximum of $7,500 is available from the historic site’s exhibition budget for any given project. All projects that are approved will be installed for one full tour season (March through November), unless the artist proposal states otherwise. Currently enrolled undergraduate students are ineligible to apply.

METRO ARTS IN TRANSIT: REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS: Call for Artists

Deadline: June 18, 2010.

Metro Arts in Transit (AIT) in St. Louis, MO, is currently seeking qualifications from artists for a number of new public art projects. Metro has received approximately $45 million in federal stimulus funding, known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. As a result, and in line with Metro policy, one percent (or $450,000) was dedicated to AIT for public art. AIT will commission seven new public artworks for seven stations that were constructed during the first phase of MetroLink.

FRIEZE WRITER’S PIRZE: Call for Applications

Deadline: June 25, 2010

The annual Frieze Writer’s Prize is an international award for discovering and promoting new writers in the field of arts criticism. Applicants should be emerging critics with a maximum of three pieces on art having been published in any national or regional newspaper or magazine (previous online publication, however, is permitted). The winner receives ₤2,000 and will be commissioned to write a review for the October issue of Frieze. The judges of this year’s award are Boris Groys, A.M. Homes, and Jörg Heiser.

THE COUNCIL ON FOUNDATION’S 44TH ANNUAL FILM AND VIDEO FESTIVAL: Call for Submissions

Deadline: June 25, 2010

The Council on Foundations and Grantmakers in Film + Electronic Media (GFEM) are now accepting submissions of films and videos for The Council on Foundation’s 44th Annual Film and Video Festival. The festival showcases films, videos, and television programs that have received support from foundations, corporate giving programs, and donor networks with the aim of encouraging grantmakers to use media to advance their philanthropic goals. The event will take place April 10-12, 2011 in Philadelphia at The Council’s annual conference. Films and videos must have been completed within two years prior to June 25, 2010. Works may be any length, though applicants are advised not to submit original materials. Note there is a $60 application fee.

SAP WHITE ON WHITE: Call for Submissions

Deadline: June 30, 2010

Storefront Artist Project invites regional artists to participate in our upcoming city-wide juried exhibition White on White.  The event is taking place in conjunction with Barrington Stage Company’s production of Art, a thought provoking comedy by Yasmina Reza, on stage July 22 through August 7.  The play revolves around three men who are caught in a debate over the value of art after one of them buys a white on white painting for a colossal amount of money.

LANESBORO RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Call for Applications

Deadline: June 30, 2010

The Lanesboro Residency Program in Lanesboro, MN, provides an opportunity for emerging artists (visual artists, writers, musicians, and others) to create new work and explore new ideas while engaging with the community through their artwork. Every year the program offers two- and four-week residencies for two to four artists who are provided with a stipend of up to $2,500, living accommodations, work space, project facilitation, and plenty of time to focus solely on art in the small picturesque town of Lanesboro.

CREATIVE CAPITAL WORKSHOP SUBSIDY GRANTS: Call for Applications

Application Deadline: June 30, 2010

New Workshop Subsidy program to help organizations partner with Creative Capital  to bring the Professional Development Program to even more artists across the country in 2011 and 2012.

GOVERNORS ISLAND ART FAIR: Call for Applications

Deadline: June 30, 2010

An art fair organized entirely by artists on Governor’s Island, NYC.

POV: Call for Independant Documentaries

Deadline: June 30, 2010

POV (a cinema term for “point of view”), public television’s longest running showcase for independent documentaries from all perspectives, premieres 14-16 of the best, boldest, and most innovative programs every year on PBS. POV is now seeking entries for broadcast on PBS for the 2011 season. All subjects, aesthetic approaches, and lengths are welcomed. Completion funding may be available for unfinished films. All filmmakers must complete the online form to submit their films.

TEACHERS & WRITERS COLLABORATIVE BECHTEL PRIZE: Call for Submissions

Deadline: June 30, 2010

Teachers & Writers Collaborative honors the author of an exemplary essay on literary arts education with its annual Bechtel Prize. Submissions must be previously unpublished, less than 5,000 words, and address important issues in creative writing education and/or literary studies. The 2010 Bechtel Prize will be judged by Phillip Lopate. The winner of the Bechtel Prize receives a $1,000 honorarium and publication in Teachers & Writers magazine. Honoraria totaling $500 are shared by the authors of entries selected as finalists for the prize, which may also be published in Teachers & Writers.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WOMEN IN THE ARTS LIBRARY FELLOWS ARTIST’S BOOK AWARD: Call for Submissions

Deadline: June 30, 2010

The National Museum of Women in the Arts is currently accepting submissions for its Library Fellows Artist’s Book Award. Designed to encourage and promote the creation of artists’ books and to support NMWA’s Library and Research Center and book art programs, the Library Fellows Program provides up to $12,000 biannually for the production of an artist book in an edition of 125, with an additional $1,000 provided for the artist to create 500 copies of a promotional brochure for the book, as well as $1,000 for the artist to travel to the Library Fellows’ annual meeting to present her book upon completion. The artist who is responsible for the overall creation, design, and realization of the book must be a woman. Only new books will be considered; previously published books or books that are versions of books previously published or planned for publication will not be considered. For full guidelines and application procedures click here.

THE AD CLUB 50TH ANNIVERSARY HATCH AWARD: Call for Submissions

Deadling: June 30, 2010

JULY

2010 DRUCKER AWARD FOR NONPROFIT INNOVATION: Call for Nominations

Deadline: July 1, 2010.

The Drucker Institute at Claremont Graduate University is accepting nominations for the 2010 Peter F. Drucker Award for Nonprofit Innovation. Administered annually since 1991, the Drucker Award is granted to a social-sector organization that demonstrates Peter Drucker’s definition of innovation—”change that creates a new dimension of performance.” Supported by a grant from the Coca-Cola Foundation, the first place prize is $100,000; the second place prize is $7,500; and the third place prize is $5,000.

ADAMS ART ON THE GREEN: Call for Artisans

Deadline: July 1, 2010

Arts and crafts event scheduled for July 24, 2010, held on the Adams, MA, Town Hall lawn, 11AM to 3PM. Artists, crafters and performers of all ages are invited to join the event. All types of art will be considered.

UNITED STATES MINT: Call for Artists

Deadline: July 6, 2010

The United States Mint invites artists, designers, and illustrators to apply for a paid position as a contracted, Associate Designer in their Artistic Infusion Program (AIP). Artists chosen to be a part of the AIP program can work from anywhere and have the tremendous opportunity to take part in American history by contributing potential designs for the next generation of coins. Chosen artists will receive $2,000 for each assigned design submission as well as an additional $5,000 if their design is selected to be sculpted into a coin.

AUGUST

THE AMY CLAMPITT RESIDENCY PROGRAM: Residency for Poets/Literary Scholars

Deadline: August 1, 2010

The Residency award consists of the use of the Amy Clampitt House free and clear for a six month
or twelve month period beginning on February 1, 2011 and ending on January 27th, 2012.

ARTIST’S RESOURCE TRUST (A.R.T) FUND: Call for Grant Applications (Individuals)

Deadline: August 1, 2010

Grants awarded to professional New England visual artists in painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography or mixed media who have a financial need. Awards range from $1,500 to $10,000 and may be applied toward any expense that may enhance the artist’s ability to create his/her work.

ARTIST’S RESOURCE TRUST (A.R.T) FUND: Call for Grant Applications (Organizations)

Deadline: August 1, 2010

1:1 Matching grants ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 for Nonprofit organizations that wish to commission new
work or purchase existing works by mature, mid-career artists living in New England.

LILLIAN ORLOWSKY/WILLIAM FREED FOUNDATION GRANTS: Call for Applications

Deadline: August 16, 2010

Grants will be offered to American painters aged 45 or older who demonstrate financial need. The primary emphasis is to promote public awareness and a commitment to American art, as well as encouraging interest in artists who lack adequate recognition.

NORTH ADAMS OPEN STUDIOS: Call for Participants

Deadline: August 31, 2010; $35 if you register and pay by June 30; $45 after June 30.

North Adams Open Studios is looking for artists – with and without studios – to participate in its sixth annual autumn showcase of local artisans to be held on Saturday and Sunday, October 15 and 16, from 10 to 6.

SEPTEMBER

STEAMPUNK FORM & FUNCTION DESIGN COMPETITION: Call for Submissions

Deadline: September 5, 2010

Steampunk Form & Function Design Competition brings together outstanding Steampunk design innovations, details the design process and promotes the role of the Steampunk designer/craftsman. Along with recycled items, all Steampunk design solutions are primarily built using authentic Victorian (1850s to early 1900s) objects, salvage items, clothing and antiques that incorporate modern technology and have specific functions for modern day, practical uses.

ROLLING

SODUS ART BANCK: Residency and Workshop Applications

Deadline: One month before session

Painters, sculptors, mixed-media artists, explorers in expressive visual art, and/or collaborative artists may now apply for 1 week workshops or 3-4 week residency sessions, which provide unique artists with creative environment, professional critiques, artist presentations, accommodations, foundry, and studio space to focus on their work.

HILLTOWN FAMILIES: Call for Submissions, Writing and Photography

Deadline: Rolling

Hilltown Families welcomes writings that reflect the positive work and educational efforts activists, families, teachers, and artists work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families.

INDEARTS: Call for Submissions, Writing

Deadline: Rolling

Great Opportunity for a Mime or a Dancer Extraordinaire for a solo full length performance piece with text in French & English. For details please email indearts@aol.com

InDeArts…announces a call for poets worldwide to submit up to three of their unpublished pieces that are three lines in length to be considered for publication.

Now accepting listings from arts oriented organizations,  businesses in the arts, individuals and others in the arts for its online publication, as well as reviews of arts events and commentaries on the arts. For consideration, please send your information in the body of an email to: indearts@aol.com.

PITTSFIELD FARMERS MARKET: Call for Artisans and Crafters

Deadline: Rolling

Opportunity for farmers, culinary artisans, and hand crafters to participcate in the Pittsfield Farmers Market.

WILLIAMSTOWN SUNDAYS @ 6: Call for Artisans and Crafters

Deadline: Rolling

Call for artistans and craftersns to participate in the  monthly downtown Williamstown community event.

Do you have an item you would like to share about the creative economy? Suggest a Post to Berkshire Creative!

Film & Media Arts, June 8 , 2010, 5:30-7:00 pm

Entrepreneurs & Small Business, July 13, 2010, 5:30-7:00 pm

Upstairs@Jae’s Spice,

Click here to learn more and RSVP!

Skillshare in the Foothills

Larks & Japes shares the skills of artists and arborists, makers and cocktail shakers with others in the CT, MA, NY corner with a DIY ethic. Rooted in participatory learning, their intention is that attendees have a fun, new knowledge filled day in a non-commercial environment.

Saturday, June 5th, 2010, Breakfast: 10:00 AM, Workshop: 10:30 AM- 4 PM

NorthEast-Millerton Library Annex, 75 Main Street Millerton, New York 12546

Click here to learn more and participate.

Inspiring Prevention Symposium and Longwood Symphony Concert

The Longwood Symphony Orchestra will partner with Berkshire Children and Families for a two-day collaboration beginning with a symposium on new insights to strengthen the parent/child relationship through literacy, music and the art of parenting, followed by the LSO’s Berkshire debut at Tanglewood’s Ozawa Hall under the baton of Artistic Director and Conductor Jonathan McPhee.

Inspiring Prevention Symposim:Friday, June 11th, 2010 9:00-4:00 PM

Berkshire Museum, 39 South Street, Pittsfield, MA 01210

Longwood Symphony Orchestra: Saturday, June 12th,  2010, 8:00 PM

Ozawa Hall, Tanglewood, 297 West Street, Lenox, MA

Click here for more information.

Berkshire Visitors Bureau Tourism Talkbacks

Join your colleagues for an open forum discussion on the following topics. Share your ideas and hear what others are doing to encourage collaborations and facilitate packaging.

Health & Recreation, June 23th, 2010,  3:30‐4:30pm Mt. Greylock Visitors Center, Lanesboro, MA

Meetings, July 13th, 2010, 3:30‐4:30pm, Orchards Hotel, Williamstown, MA

Culinary Experience, August 2010, 3:30‐4:30pm, Perigee Restaurant, Lee, MA

Gen X Audience, September 2010, 3:30‐4:30pm, MASS MoCA, North Adams, MA

Shopping, October 2010, 3:30‐4:30pm, Vault Gallery, Great Barrington, MA

Lodging, November 2010, TBD, Gateways Inn, Lenox, MA

Destination Weddings, December 2010, 3:30‐4:30pm, Cranwell Resort, Lenox, MA

Forums are free and open to all businesses in Berkshire County

Barrington Stage Company Professional Internship Program (PIP)

The Professional Internship Program (PIP) is an intensive summer internship program offered to college age students interested in pursuing careers in theatre. Participants are chosen through a competitive application process to train and gain professional experience in various facets of Professional Equity Theatre. Click here to learn more and apply!

Berkshire Museum

Deadline: Rolling

The Berkshire Museum has a diverse art, history and natural science collection of approximately 30,000 objects. Currently the museum is seeking Programming and Special Events Interns, Marketing/ Graphic Design Interns, and Summer Camp Interns. Click here to learn more and apply!

Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival

Deadlines: Summer Priority Deadline has passed. Regular Deadline is March 1, 2010 after March 1, call 413-243-9919 x17 to inquire if openings are available. Off-season deadline: Rolling

Summer Internships are comprised of real-work projects and responsibilities that develop professional skills and careers. Interns receive staff-led seminars, training and mentoring, on-campus housing, 3 meals a day, $500 stipend, and a $150 travel/sundry expense allowance. College credit, work-study, independent study, and/or cooperative learning programs may be available through your school. Or you may register for college credit at Jacob’s Pillow, through their partnership with the Division of Continuing Education at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Off-season interns assist in the preparation for Jacob’s Pillow upcoming season. Off-season interns gain a broad perspective on arts administration, the dance field, and dance history while receiving on-the-job training, and experience working alongside professional staff both independently and collaboratively. Onsite housing can be arranged and is shared with other Pillow interns, as well as with artists-in-residence. Full and part-time internships for the fall, winter, and spring can be tailored to meet college credit needs and individual interests. Dates and times are flexible. Click here to learn more and apply!

IS183 Art School of the Berkshires:  Young Artists Program Intern

IS183 is seeking interns with an interest in the visual arts and/or education, combined with interest and enjoyment of children and young teens for their 2010 IS183 Summer Young Artist Program. The program will run from June 28 to August 20, 2010, and candidates may apply for a 2- to 8-week internship commitment. Hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday thru Friday.

Candidates should be pursuing art as a major or supplementary course of study, and able to demonstrate some experience working with children. Interns receive a stipend of $100/week for their work as well as the opportunity to audit one evening or week-end adult class during the summer. In addition, you may be able to receive academic credit from your college or university. IS183 will also provide references for your future employment/academic pursuits upon request, dependent on performance. Click here to learn more and apply!

Richmond [Berkshire Co.] Historical Commission

Richmond [Berkshire Co.] Historical Commission requires interns to assist in completing its community historical resources inventory. The internship will run from June 15 to August 31. The inventory is a state-mandated project that will be submitted to the Massachusetts Historical Commission.

Local History Researchers (2)
The interns will research and write historical narratives discussing the history of community buildings including their associations with local (or state) history as well as uses, and the role(s) the owners/occupants in the community. Full or part time researchers will be considered. Housing may be available at no cost to an intern.

Architectural History Researcher (2)
The interns shall have the responsibilities of describing buildings, structures, objects, areas, burial grounds, landscape features, and sites that are of historical, architectural, or archaeological importance. Most research will be concerned with buildings. The internship offers the opportunity to learn a marketable skill in the historic preservation field. Full or part time researchers will be considered. Housing may be available at no cost to an intern.

Click here to learn more!

Shakespeare & Company Internships in Carpentry, Props, Paint, Sound, Electrics, Costumes, and Stage Management

Interns sought for an Equity L.O.A. 14 show, 3 stage season at Shakespeare & Company. This opportunity is for individuals early in their career to develop skills and work with theatre professionals. Duties will include show running and/or change-over responsibilities. Season runs from early May through March 2011, although most positions for summer only. Late season and early start contracts may include theatre-in-education support. Housing negotiable. Stipend available.Click here to learn more and apply!

Does your organization or business offer creative economy internship opportunities? Email them to info@berkshirecreative.org!

Do you have an item you would like to share about the creative economy? Suggest a Post to Berkshire Creative!

SPARKettes are an opportunity for colleagues in an industry cluster to meet and connect at a scaled down, focused networking event. Whether you are part of one of the clusters, seeking services from them, or are just interested in learning more about a particular group, SPARKettes are here to help you ignite that connection!

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SPARKettes are held once a month, February-November 2010, with a different industry cluster addressed each month!

5:30-7:00pm

Upstairs at Jae’s Spice, North Street, Pittsfield, MA

FREE

Cash Bar

Hors D’ouevres and venue generously provided by Jae’s Spice!

Click here to RSVP to the SPARKettes of your choice!

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MONTH//INDUSTRY

UPCOMING…

JULY//ENTREPRENEURS AND SMALL BUSINESS
JULY 13th, 2010
Small Small Business Owners, Entrepreneurs, Sole Proprietors, Freelance Professionals

AUGUST//YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
AUG. 10th, 2010
Young Professionals working in the creative economy

SEPTEMBER//MUSIC/PERFORMING ARTS
SEPT. 14, 2010
Musicians (beginners, teachers, and professionals), Actors, Theatres, Festivals, Venues, Managers

OCTOBER// EDUCATION
OCT. 12th, 2010
Museum Educators, Public and Private School Teachers, School Administrators

NOVEMBER// HOUSING SUPPORT
NOV. 9th, 2010
Interior Design, Landscape Architects, Architects, Builders, Home Product Designers/Makers, Real Estate Agents

PAST…

FEBRUARY// VISUAL MEDIA
FEB. 9th, 2010
Publishers, Printers, Writers, Photographers, Graphic Designers, Web Designers, Publicists, Marketers

MARCH//CULTURE AND HERITAGE
MAR. 23rd, 2010
Museums, Theatres, Theatre Companies, Garden Museums, Historic Homes, Libraries, Heritage Preservation

APRIL//VISUAL ARTS
APR. 13th, 2010
Artists, Artisans, Galleries, Arts Agents, Collectors, Museums, Art Venues, Crafters, Curators

MAY//COMMUNICATIONS
MAY 11th, 2010
Magazines, Newspapers, Radio, Television, Journalists, Bloggers, Publicists, Marketers

JUNE// FILM AND MEDIA ARTS
JUNE 8th, 2010
Film, Animation, New Media, and Supporting Industries

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SPECIAL THANKS TO SPARK! LEAD SPONSOR

GREYLOCK FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

If you live or work in the Berkshires, you are cordially invited to join Greylock Federal Credit Union.

AND

SPARKette SPONSOR

NETWORKING EVENT FOR BERKSHIRE CREATIVES!

Come and meet your creative economy colleagues! If words like art, culture, design, innovation, and technology are part of your vocabulary chances are you are part of the region’s growing creative economy. Whether you work in industry or the arts, Berkshire Creative invites you to come out to mix and mingle at our signature event!

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Barrington Stage Company

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

5:30 PM-7:00 PM

Click here for a map!

For more information please contact info@berkshirecreative.org or call 413.822.8324.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP!

Would you like to become more involved in the creative community? Volunteer for SPARK! contact info@berkshirecreative.org or call 413.822.8324.

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ABOUT BARRINGTON STAGE COMPANY

Barrington Stage Company (BSC), founded in 1995, is a not-for-profit professional theatre company in the Berkshires (MA), with a three-fold mission: to produce top-notch, compelling work; to develop new plays and musicals; and to find fresh, bold ways of bringing new audiences into the theatre, especially young people.

In July 2005 BSC purchased a 1912 vaudeville theatre in downtown Pittsfield. (In its first 11 years, BSC operated from rented space at the Consolati Performing Arts Center at Mount Everett High School in Sheffield.) In January 2006 BSC began renovations on the theatre and by June 2007, BSC opened its doors to a completely renovated 520-seat state-of-the art theatre

Barrington Stage Company has become the fastest growing arts venue in Berkshire County, attracting some 45,000 patrons each year, and gaining national recognition for its superior quality productions and comprehensive educational programming.

Click here to visit their website and learn more!

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“Our Creative Berkshires”

As usual, all attendees are invited to bring business cards and brochures to leave on a table showcasing “Our Creative Berkshires.”

Let’s talk across industry, talk across sector, talk across town!

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A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR LEAD SPARK! SPONSOR

GREYLOCK FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

Out of 7.794 credit unions, Greylock Federal Credit Union is #1 in the Nation! According to Callahan and Associates, Greylock is number 1 in the country for providing value to our Members. Come in and see what you’re missing. Become a Greylock Member today.

Click here to visit their website and learn more!

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SNEAK PEEK OF SPARK! FEATURED BUSINESSES

Check out the Berkshire Creative Economy businesses that will be featured at the upcoming Wednesday, April 7th SPARK! at The Barrington Stage

ALCHEMY INITIATIVE

al⋅che⋅my: a power or process of transforming something common into something special.
in⋅i⋅ti⋅a⋅tive:  an introductory act or step; leading action.

Alchemy Initiative is an urban model of sustainability and community in the heart of downtown Pittsfield. We work to inspire and empower our community to transform the common into something special.  We are an intentional living laboratory and a catalyst for social change, promoting the principles of holistic living, art-making, and sustainability.  Located in the former Notre Dame church and rectory in downtown Pittsfield, there are eight elements within our initiative: Urban Farm and Farmhouse, Artisan Studios, Workshop Space, and soon an industrial Kitchen, Reading Room, Café, Hostel and Event Space. We are dedicated to leading Pittsfield towards a more sustainable community and invite you to be a part of our intentional living laboratory.

BERKSHIRE ARTS FESTIVAL

Now in its 9^th year, the Berkshires Arts Festival, (July 2-4 at Ski Butternut) will feature more than 175 of the most talented artists and artisans from around the country, offering outstanding works of ceramics, painting, jewelry, glass, wood, mixed media, sculpture, fashion and photography.  This year the festival will be bigger than ever, with more demonstrations, workshops and educational resources, gourmet food, and a variety of live entertainment for adults and children alike.  The Berkshires Arts Festival is sponsored and produced by An American Craftsman Galleries and American Art Marketing.

THE COLONIAL THEATRE

The Colonial Theatre is a year-round performing arts center located in downtown Pittsfield, in the heart of the Berkshires. Programming is varied and includes all genres of live music, touring Broadway musicals, comedy acts, family presentations and community events. The Colonial’s 5th season will be announced April 1st and begins June 3rd. See You There!

DAVID CARRIERE

With almost twenty-five years experience as a publicist, David Carriere began his career in 1986, and honed his professional techniques at numerous publishing houses around the country. In 1997 he launched his own publicity firm, and is now nestled in the Berkshires where he handles the needs of a select few clients across a wide variety of industries. Carriere is the author of PUBLICITY: 7 STEPS TO PUBLICIZE JUST ABOUT ANYTHING, which was published in 2008 by Glitterati Incorporated.

OTHA DAY – DRUM TO THE BEAT

Otha Day is a Drum Circle Facilitator who leads fun and lively Rhythm Events from the deep belief that rhythm has the power to build communities, promote well-being and bring incredible joy.  Using a variety of hand drums, BoomWhackers and many other percussion instruments, Otha leads drum and rhythm circles for corporate functions, conferences, schools, libraries, hospitals, religious and private events.  Some of his many DrumToTheBeat clients have included the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command Leadership Development Program in Washington D.C., the multi-national SABIC Innovative Plastics, Burr and Burton Academy and Williams College where he has also taught courses on “Drum Circles for Conflict Resolution”.

Otha will lead this SPARK gathering in a lively session using both Body Percussion and the percussion instruments  “BOOM-WHACKERS”. Watch the SPARKS fly!!

Would you like to be a featured business at a future SPARK!? Please email info@berkshirecreative.org or call 413.822.8324.

Do you have an item you would like to share about the creative economy? Suggest a Post to Berkshire Creative!

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So, the three classes of spending (direct, indirect, and induced) not only reflect related increases in spending for the cultural sector, but the subsequent spending in other industry sectors, such as educational services and real estate.  The 3.6 billion in spending is only a starting point for analyzing the economic impact of arts and culture nonprofits! Click here to estimate the economic impact for organizations in Massachusetts.New England Cultural Nonprofit Expense by Discipline

New England Cultural Nonprofit Expense by Discipline
(Click on the chart to view the interactive version)

After a brief postponement due to a late winter snow storm, Berkshire Creatives from across the county  came together to SPARK! @ The Clark!

Click here to visit our Facebook page and see more pictures! See someone you know or yourself in our facebook pictures? Don’t forget to tag, tag, tag!

SPARK! Attendees, We want your feedback!

Please take a minute to fill out this short survey about the event. Tell us what you liked, what we could do better, and most importantly let us know if you made any connections. Thank you for helping us serve the Berkshire Creative Community better!

See you at the next SPARK!

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SPECIAL THANKS TO:

SPARK! Lead Sponsor:

Greylock Federal Credit Union

SPARK! Host:

The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute

SPARK! Featured Businesses:

DEVRIES FINE ART INTERNATIONAL, INC.

BERKSHIRECOUPON.COM

THE BERKSHIRE REVIEW FOR THE ARTS

BRILLIANT GRAPHICS GROUP

SHAKESPEARE & COMPANY

TAYLOR’S AND FREIGHT YARD PUB

Would you like to be a featured business at a future SPARK!? Please email info@berkshirecreative.org or call 413.822.8324.

Do you have an item you would like to share about the creative economy? Suggest a Post to Berkshire Creative!

In addition, 3,700 donors contributed $7 million to the foundation last year. Over $260,000 was raised for the new Neighbor-to-Neighbor program in a two-month challenge grant period.  Hundreds of donors stepped forward with donations ranging from $1 to $100,000 to aid individuals and families in the Berkshire Taconic region who are in economic distress.  Neighbor-to-Neighbor awards small grants, usually no more than $500, to help with overdue utilities, medical bills, short-term housing costs and transportation problems. Checks are written to the vendor (landlord, utility company, pharmacy or mechanic) on behalf of the community member in need.

“We have been greatly heartened by the marked generosity of donors in our region during this extremely difficult time,” said Jennifer Dowley, the foundation’s president. “Several donors walked into our offices this past year asking, ‘How can we help?’ and they did.”

On another note of good cheer, Berkshire Taconic’s investments have performed remarkable well even during the worst investment market since the 1930s. Comparative reports put Berkshire Taconic’s returns in the top quartile nationwide of community foundations, private foundations, university endowments and trusts over the past five years.  As of December 31, 2009, the foundation’s assets were up 27.3%.  “It is a great comfort that we have been able to recover much of was lost in 2008 during the drop of the investment markets,” said Jill Gellert, vice president of finance and administration. “We are very proud of the commitment of our investment committee. Their leadership has led to the foundation’s remarkable performance over the years.”

“Our goals for 2010 are to continue our focus on both the long-term development of charitable resources for our region and remain flexible and responsive to those people and nonprofits in immediate need,” said Dowley. “These difficult times are when we need to remember to support the people and organizations that keep our lives flourishing.”

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation builds stronger communities and improves the quality of life for all residents of Berkshire County, MA; Columbia County and northeast Dutchess County, NY; and northwest Litchfield County, CT.  Thanks to its generous donors, in 2009 Berkshire Taconic distributed nearly $7 million in scholarships and grants for programs in the arts and education, health and human services, and environmental protection.  Berkshire Taconic is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization.

Click here to learn more about the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation!

DON’T LET THAT SNOW STOP YOUR SPARK!

JOIN YOUR CREATIVE ECONOMY COLLEAGUES AT SPARK @ THE CLARK!

The Clark

Thursday, March 4, 2010

5:30 PM-7:00 PM

Click here for a map!

For more information please contact info@berkshirecreative.org or call 413.822.8324.

CLICK HERE TO RSVP!

Would you like to become more involved in the creative community? Volunteer for SPARK! contact info@berkshirecreative.org or call 413.822.8324.

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ABOUT THE CLARK

In 1950 Sterling and Francine Clark chartered the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute as a home for their extensive art collection. Opened to public in 1955, the Institute has built upon this extraordinary group of works to become one of the most beloved and respected art museums in the world, known for its intimate galleries and stunning natural environment.

One of the few institutions in the United States that combines a public art museum with a complement of research and academic programs, including a major art history library, the Clark is now a leading international center for research and discussion on the nature of art and art history. Building upon the founders’ legacy, the Institute has recently unveiled its master plan for the twenty-first century, which fosters the Clark’s commitment to providing space for its expanding research and museum programs while maintaining the unique character of its beautiful rural setting.

Click here to visit their website and learn more!

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“Our Creative Berkshires”

As usual, all attendees are invited to bring business cards and brochures to leave on a table showcasing “Our Creative Berkshires.”

Let’s talk across industry, talk across sector, talk across town!

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A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR LEAD SPARK! SPONSOR

GREYLOCK FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

If you live or work in the Berkshires, you are cordially invited to join Greylock Federal Credit Union.

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SNEAK PEEK OF SPARK! FEATURED BUSINESSES

Check out the Berkshire Creative Economy businesses that will be featured at the upcoming Wednesday, February 24th SPARK! at The Clark

DEVRIES FINE ART INTERNATIONAL, INC.

The Gallery features the figurative bronze sculpture of Andrew DeVries cast by the artist at his studio foundry in Middlefield, Massachusetts in limited editions along with original pastel drawings. Andrew is celebrating his 30th year as a professional sculptor. His works are in private and public collections in 16 countries. The gallery is located in the charming historic district of Lenox.

BERKSHIRECOUPON.COM

Love the Berkshires and love to save? Then you’ll love BerkshireCoupon.com! BerkshireCoupon.com is an online coupon website filled with great coupons to businesses in the Berkshires including restaurants, theaters, shopping, hotels and more! Just go to www.berkshirecoupon.com, Click on the category you’re interested in, Print the coupons you want, and Save right away! It’s quick, convenient, and free. Plus, BerkshireCoupon.com always has great giveaways every month.

Love advertising your business but hate the cost? BerkshireCoupon.com has affordable, effective advertising. Call Dawn Carberry at 413-441-6274 or email save@berkshirecoupon.com.

THE BERKSHIRE REVIEW FOR THE ARTS

The Berkshire Review for the Arts is an online arts magazine based in Williamstown. Launched in 2007 with the mission of providing in-depth, expert articles, reviews, and interviews about classical music, opera, theater, art, photography, dance, books, travel, food and drink, the Review now averages over 100,000 pageviews and 20,000 visits per month, with over 15,000 visitors concentrated in New York, New England, the West Coast, and Europe. In addition to the summer festivals and exhibitions in the Berkshires, we regularly cover events in New York, Boston, Edinburgh, London, and Rome, with occasional reports from wherever one of our more than 25 regular contributors may be. David Porter, President Emeritus, Skidmore College, has said, “The Review is a major cultural resource–and one distinguished by its quality of writing; I’d hate not to receive it.”

BRILLIANT GRAPHICS GROUP

Brilliant Graphics Group is a unique large format solutions provider offering 3D scanning, direct to media printing, photo imaging and digital die cutting. From 1 print to thousands, with the capabilities to produce; trade show display & graphics, backlit images, retail displays, window graphics, banners, box prototypes and Giclée prints.

SHAKESPEARE & COMPANY

Heating up the Berkshires this winter with the wickedly entertaining Les Liaisons Dangereuses (Dangerous Liaisons)—playing the Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre through March 21—Shakespeare & Company is in the planning stages for its 33rd hit season in Lenox, with shows including The Winter’s Tale and Richard III (featuring award-winning actor John Douglas Thompson in the title role). Shakespeare & Company is also home to an award-winning Education Program that is deeply rooted in the Berkshire County community, and is internationally renowned for its Center for Actor Training which attracts students, teachers and artists from over 20 countries who participate in its programs year round.

Learn more at Shakespeare.org

TAYLOR’S AND FREIGHT YARD PUB

Sean Taylor and Colleen Taylor Reinhard have owned and operated the Freight Yard Pub in North Adams, Massachusetts for 15 years. In the summer of 2007, they opened Taylor’s in downtown North Adams near MASS MoCA. Taylor’s has quickly become the upscale steak and seafood house of the Northern Berkshires. Both FYP and Taylor’s have strong local support. The owners pride themselves on serving quality food in an elegant atmosphere. The atmosphere at Taylor’s is upscale, yet casual featuring tempting dishes presented by a knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Would you like to be a featured business at a future SPARK!? Please email info@berkshirecreative.org or call 413.822.8324.

Do you have an item you would like to share about the creative economy? Suggest a Post to Berkshire Creative!