New Independent Bookstore opens in downtown Pittsfield.

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PITTSFIELD - Pittsfield now has its own downtown bookstore. Chapters Bookstore, Inc., a new independently owned bookstore under the management of Aimee McLear, and Kelly Wright will be opening for the first time on Thursday, July 17, 2008 for the Downtown Inc. sponsored 3rd Thursday event. Both Aimee and Kelly have extensive bookselling and management experience. This is their first independent enterprise together.

For 3rd Thursday, Chapters Bookstore will offer story time starting at 5:30 p.m., face painting and DJ Chuck Wright spinning summertime tunes. Selected beach reads will be featured at 10% off.

The newly renovated store, located at 78 North Street in Pittsfield, will feature a 2000 square foot selling space as well as a 600 square foot event space. Chapters Bookstore will feature new books and magazines as well as book related items, and they will also offer research and special order services. The event space will host author events and community events, and feature the photography and art of local artists.

“We are passionate about books and literacy, and hope to provide Berkshire County residents a unique atmosphere and personal service that exceeds their expectations,” says Chapters President Aimee McLear.

For More Information: Chaptersinc@yahoo.com
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Pittsfield Firefighters Knock Down Morningside Blaze

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Fire Department knocked down a two-alarm blaze in the Morningside neighborhood in less than an hour on Friday. 

Just before 3 p.m., the department received a report of a fire at 25 Pine St. Deputy Fire Chief Daniel Garner said he arrived at the scene first and saw heavy fire showing from the rear of the more than 100-year-old home. 

"We just went to work, pretty much," he explained. 

"Because of the heavy volume of fire and the potential for a high number of occupants, I called a double alarm, which called all available Pittsfield firefighters directly to the scene. And I would say the fire was knocked down and under control within an hour." 

Eight occupants were evacuating the home when firefighters arrived, and there were no civilian or firefighter injuries. People, including the occupants, stood on the sidewalk and watched the scene unfold. 

When iBerkshires arrived, firefighters were on the ladder, extinguishing the top level of the home from the side and rear.  

There were five fire engines and one ladder truck. Hinsdale also came to assist, and Lenox and Dalton were called for standby. 

Garner believes the building is salvageable and repairable, but recognized that the family won't be able to stay there tonight. An extended family appears to live in the home. 

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined; the Fire Investigation Division was on site. The Red Cross will provide assistance to the residents of the home. 

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