Ferry Joins Pittsfield Co-op as Commercial Banking Leader

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Pittsfield Cooperative Bank announced that Michael Ferry has come out of retirement to join the bank as its new SVP, Commercial Banking. 
 
With more than 40 years of experience in the local banking industry, including 34 years with Berkshire Bank, Mr. Ferry brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.
 
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Ferry served as Senior Vice President and Commercial Regional President for Berkshire County and Vermont markets at Berkshire Bank. In this capacity, he led commercial lending, relationship management and related services, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering economic growth within the regions. Additionally, he previously held the position of President of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. Ferry currently serves as a Director of The Feigenbaum Foundation further exemplifying his dedication to community development.
 
Beyond his professional achievements, Ferry has been an active participant in various community organizations. He has served as a board member and treasurer for Berkshire County Arc for 16 years and was elected as the organization's Chairman of the Board in July 2020.
 
In his new role at Co-op Bank, Ferry will oversee the commercial banking division, focusing on expanding services and strengthening relationships with local businesses. His leadership is expected to enhance the bank's ability to provide tailored financial solutions that meet the unique needs of the community as well as mentor a growing commercial team that recently won Banker & Tradesman’s 50 Fastest Growing Commercial Lenders.
 
Michael P. Daly, CEO of Co-op Bank, expressed enthusiasm about Ferry's appointment.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Mike Ferry to our team. His extensive experience and deep-rooted commitment to the Berkshires align perfectly with our mission to support local businesses and contribute to the economic vitality of the region," Daly said.
 
Ferry shared his excitement about joining the bank, stating, 
 
"I am excited to join Pittsfield Cooperative Bank and look forward to working with the team to deliver exceptional service to our commercial customers," Ferry said. "Together, we will continue to support the growth and success of businesses in our community."
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New Camp Is Safe Place for Children Suffering Loss to Addiction

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

Last year's Happy Campers courtesy of Max Tabakin.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A new camp is offering a safe place for children who have lost a parent or guardian to addiction. 
 
Director Gayle Saks founded the nonprofit "Camp Happy Place" last year. The first camp was held in June with 14 children.
 
Saks is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor who works at the Brien Center. One of her final projects when studying was how to involve youth, and a camp came to mind. Camp had been her "happy place" growing up, and it became her dream to open her own.
 
"I keep a bucket list in my wallet, and it's right on here on this list, and I cross off things that I've accomplished," she said. "But it is the one thing on here that I knew I had to do."
 
The overnight co-ed camp is held at a summer camp in Winsted, Conn., where Saks spent her summers as a child. It is four nights and five days and completely free. Transportation is included as are many of the items needed for camping. The camp takes up to 30 children.
 
"I really don't think there's any place that exists specifically for this population. I think it's important to know, we've said this, but that it is not a therapeutic camp," Saks said.
 
She said the focus is on fun for the children, though they are able to talk to any of the volunteer and trained staff. The staff all have experience in social work, addiction and counseling, and working with children.
 
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