Vote for the Independent Small Business of the Year Award here.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Carr Hardware is the only business in Massachusetts to make it to the quarterfinals of the "Independent We Stand Small Business of the Year Award."
And, if it wins, the local company plans on donating that money right back into the community.
Carr Hardware says the small business organization Independent We Stand is giving out $5,000 to this year's winner. If Carr gets it, it will be donated toward building a new splash pad at Clapp Park.
"It is perfect for the kids. It gives them a safe and healthy place to go to," said Director of Marketing Geoffrey Webb. "This is just another way to give back to the community."
A customer had previously nominated Carr Hardware for the award and on Nov. 20, the Berkshires-based business found out it was in the top 25 of 249 businesses across the country after a first round of voting.
"I am very proud of our team members, at each of our six locations, which were instrumental in helping us be recognized by Independent We Stand by their commitment to providing superior service to our customers," said Vice President Bart Raser in a statement.
"I encourage folks to log onto the website often and vote for Carr, if we do receive the Indie Award I have committed to donate 100 percent of the cash proceeds towards the rebuild the new Splash Park project in Pittsfield."
Webb said the contest puts a lot of emphasis on what small businesses do for the community. Carr Hardware next year will be entering its 90th year since it was founded and prides itself on being a community partner. It operates stores in Pittsfield, Lee, Great Barrington, and North Adams in Massachusetts, and stores in Avon and Enfield, Conn.
"This year's quarterfinals represent the independent businesses from across the country who go above and beyond to support their local economies," said Bill Brunelle, co-founder of Independent We Stand in a statement. "This award is our way of honoring the contributions they've made to their communities."
The splash park project is part of an ongoing effort to revamp Clapp Park. Both the Rotary Club and the Buddy Pellerin Field Committee are supporting a number of park improvement projects eyed for the park. Carr Hardware is a member of the Rotary Club, which has specifically eyed the creation of the new splash pad.
"It is one of the causes the Rotary Club is behind," Webb said.
The voting for the contest is open to the public. But one can only vote once a day. Voting ends on Dec. 10 and is done online here.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.
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Friday Front Porch Feature: A Luxurious Home for Hosting
By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — Are you looking for a luxurious home with tons of amenities? Then this might be the home for you.
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 65 Johnson Road.
This 1998 single-family is newly remodeled and has four bedrooms and four bathrooms. It is 4,298 square feet on more than an acre.
It is on the market for $1,075,000.
The home includes a two-car basement garage, a home gym with equipment, and a custom mudroom. There is also a salt water pool and outdoor fire pit. The kitchen has custom built-in freezer and refrigerator, perfect for hosting, and comes with countless built-in space and custom drawers, including a built-in Miele coffee machine.
We spoke with Mia and Melissa Mazzeo with Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Barnbrook Realty, which has the listing.
What do you think makes this property stand out in the current market?
Mazzeos: What truly sets this property apart in today's market is the exceptional quality and thoughtful attention to detail throughout. The sellers didn't just update this home — they reimagined it with care, intention, and craftsmanship. Every improvement was carefully considered, creating a move-in-ready space that feels both elevated and effortlessly livable
What was your first impression when you walked into the home?
It was an instant 'wow' moment. We were immediately impressed — and we absolutely loved the open floor plan. The space feels bright, connected, and perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.
Are there any standout design features or recent renovations?
Yes — this home truly has it all. Since 2018, the property has been fully renovated with both luxury and long-term quality in mind. Major improvements include a new roof, new windows, updated electrical and plumbing systems, new mini-split systems for efficient heating and cooling, new vinyl siding, and Trex decking for low-maintenance outdoor living. The pool has been converted to salt water, and the professionally updated landscaping enhances the home's curb appeal and outdoor enjoyment.
Inside, the level of customization is exceptional. Every detail was thoughtfully designed with built-in space for everything — including a dedicated coffee station, double dishwashers, a pullout shelf for your stand mixer, and custom drawers for cooking utensils. The large Sub-Zero refrigerator blends seamlessly into the cabinetry for a clean, sophisticated look. The dining room features a stunning built-in buffet complete with pullout refrigerator and freezer drawers, perfectly balancing elegance and functionality.
What kind of buyer do you see this home being perfect for?
This home is incredibly versatile. It's perfect for the buyer who loves to host and entertain, but just as ideal for a family seeking space and thoughtful design. And for someone who simply wants a private, peaceful setting to come home to — this property delivers that balance beautifully.
What would you say to a buyer trying to imagine their life in this space?
Close your eyes and imagine your dream home — every update completed, every amenity thoughtfully added, nothing left to do. Picture yourself soaking in the beauty of Berkshire County's ever-changing seasons through the windows of your all-season sunroom. Imagine the laughs and smiles that fill the air as you host loved ones in your chef's kitchen, designed perfectly for gathering and entertaining.
Now open your eyes… and you'll see 65 Johnson Road — the true definition of move-in ready.
You can find out more about this home on its listing here.
*Front Porch Feature brings you an exclusive to some of the houses listed on our real estate page every week. Here we take a bit of a deeper dive into a certain house for sale and ask questions so you don't have to.
Caprese Conyers scored 22 points, and Kyana Summers had a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds to go with eight assists as Pittsfield got back to the state semi-finals for the second year in a row. click for more
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 65 Johnson Road.
click for more