NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Triplex Cinema will present a screening of the film "The Trip to Greece" (2020) on Saturday, May 17, at 3:00 p.m. Following the film, a talkback session will feature Dr. Joachim Frank, the 2017 Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry.
Dr. Frank, a Professor at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, will discuss the film with Triplex Creative Director Ben Elliott. Dr. Frank has also recently published a novel, "Ierapetra, or His Sister’s Keeper", which is set in Greece. A book signing and reception with Dr. Frank will take place after the discussion.
Dr. Frank's Nobel Prize was awarded for his contributions to the development of cryo-electron microscopy, a method for imaging biological molecules. His research has provided insights into cellular processes and viruses. He is also the recipient of the 2014 Benjamin Franklin Medal in Life Science and the 2017 Wiley Prize in Biomedical Science.
"Ierapetra, or His Sister’s Keeper" tells the story of Reiner, a retired Berkshire resident, as he reflects on his relationship with his late sister, Monika, and their trip to Crete in the 1960s. The novel explores themes of memory, loss, and the cultural landscapes of Germany and Greece. Dr. Frank, a Berkshire County resident with his wife, Carol Saginaw, noted that the novel was inspired by his memories of his sister and their time in Crete.
"The Trip to Greece" is the fourth film in a series directed by Michael Winterbottom, starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon as fictionalized versions of themselves traveling and engaging in conversations. In this installment, they trace Odysseus' journey through Greece, visiting various locations and discussing topics ranging from history to the meaning of life.
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Friday Front Porch Feature: A Lincoln Log Haven
By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
BECKET, Mass — Looking for a lincoln log home where you can feel cozy and private? Then this house is for you.
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are discussing a log house at 236 Surriner Road.
The house has three bedrooms and three bathrooms, and was built in 1989. The asking price is $735,000.
The property is 2,820 square feet with 4 acres. It comes with a dishwasher, washer, dryer, gas oven, refrigerator, range, and range hood.
The property has a river rock fireplace, and two sunrooms to relax in. A spiral staircase will take you to the primary suite and bathroom with a walk and shower and claw foot tub.
We spoke to Leslie Claus Van Hise with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Barnbrook Realty.
What do you think makes this property stand out in the current market?
Claus Van Hise:True log homes are a rarity in the Berkshires, and this one stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship. From the moment you step inside, you can see the care and pride of ownership from the original builders. It’s a home that was thoughtfully created and lovingly maintained.
Do you know any unique stories about the home or its history?
Claus Van Hise:"For a millennia, it was a forest," so begins a short story written by one of the owners. He chose the lot because, as he put it, "Each time I visited my son in this wooded mountain hamlet, a special calm and tranquility would overcome me..." With his daughter, they cleared much of the homesite and path into the woods themselves and built an 800 sq/ft Lincoln log cabin as a summer retreat. A decade later, they expanded it with a 2,000 sq/ft addition. 'Little by little, the house was complemented with things of beauty and convenience that brought pleasure, peace, and happiness" —earning its beloved name, the 'Log Mahal'.
What kind of buyer do you see this home being perfect for?
Claus Van Hise:Whether a buyer is looking for a full-time or part-time living or even as a part time rental to offset costs, this home is ideal for the buyer with discerning taste—someone who values exceptional craftsmanship, craves the serenity of nature, and appreciates the warmth and timeless character unique to a true log home.
What was your first impression when walking into this home?
Claus Van Hise:From the moment I stepped onto the front porch and through the double doors, I felt an immediate sense of welcome. The warmth, character, and exceptional craftsmanship of the home were instantly apparent—it truly felt like home.
Are there any standout design features and/or recent renovations?
Claus Van Hise:Standout features include the striking natural river rock fireplace with integrated log storage, a charming loft on the main floor, and a spacious second-floor primary suite. The suite is crowned by a cupola designed as a private sanctuary, offering tranquil 360-degree views—a truly unique retreat
Have you heard any memorable reactions or feedback from visitors?
Claus Van Hise:Visitors often respond with an immediate 'Wow,' especially when they see the stunning river rock fireplace. Despite the open floor plan, many remark on how the home seems to 'hug' you with its warmth and cozy, inviting atmosphere.
What kind of neighborhood is it?
Claus Van Hise:The town of Becket is a rural, arts-centered community celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural gems like Jacob’s Pillow. The neighborhood reflects this charm, with wooded hills, abundant wildlife, and close proximity to hiking trails and year-round outdoor recreation.
You can find out more about this house on its listing.
*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.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or an offer to sell. If you're interested in having your property featured, please contact our sales department at sales@boxcarmedia.com.
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are discussing a log house at 236 Surriner Road. click for more
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