Tai Chi Classes at Lichtenstein Center

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Pittsfield - An eight week introductory class in Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese practice of slow graceful movements with both physical and emotional benefits, will begin this Monday, April 25, at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts, located at 28 Renne Avenue in downtown Pittsfield. The classes, according to instructor Jim Pullaro, Ph.D., who holds a black belt in Shaolin Kempo Karate and has been teaching Tai Chi for ten years, are fun and informal. We'll concentrate on energy-generating body movement, gentle stretching, body awareness, and coordinated breathing in a relaxing atmosphere of gentle, soothing music. When these elements are put together, you are immersed in a unique meditative state that is deeply healing and energizing. Most exercise programs focus on exertion or vigorous, fast movements to achieve increased strength and endurance. Tai Chi facilitates both strength and endurance through slow and relaxed movements. Research has shown that Tai Chi helps people reduce stress, gives them a low intensity workout and lowers blood pressure. According to Time magazine, Tai Chi combines intense mental focus with deliberate, graceful movements that improve strength, agility and particularly important for the elderly balance. Classes are $12 per session, or $96 for the entire series, and run from 7pm to 8pm. To register, please call 413-448-2719. No previous experience is required. The Lichtenstein Center for the Arts is a municipally owned community arts center managed by the City of Pittsfield's Office of Cultural Development. The Center includes ten individual artist studios, ceramics and photographic workshop spaces, a community room, and a gallery featuring changing art exhibitions of local and regional art. A variety of classes and events are offered at the Lichtenstein Center. For more information or to join the mailing list for upcoming events and classes, call 413-499-9370 or email mwhilden@pittsfieldch.com.
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Friends of Great Barrington Libraries Holiday Book Sale

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The Friends of Great Barrington Libraries invite the community to shop their annual Holiday Good-as-New Book Sale, happening now through the end of the year at the Mason Library, 231 Main Street. 
 
With hundreds of curated gently used books to choose from—fiction, nonfiction, children's favorites, gift-quality selections, cookbooks, and more—it's the perfect local stop for holiday gifting.
 
This year's sale is an addition to the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce's Holiday Stroll on this Saturday, Dec. 13, 3–8 PM. Visitors can swing by the Mason Library for early parking, browse the sale until 3:00 PM, then meet Pete the Cat on the front lawn before heading downtown for the Stroll's shopping, music, and festive eats.
 
Can't make the Holiday Stroll? The book sale is open during regular Mason Library hours throughout December.
 
Proceeds support free library programming and events for all ages.
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