October 2, 2008

Dear Friends,

The Board of Directors of BerkShares, the local currency for Berkshire County, is pleased to announce that it has hired Sharon Palma as interim executive director. A grant from the Threshold Foundation supports the position. The organization is awaiting additional funding to expand the interim position into a permanent position.

Sharon Palma is well qualified for the job. She served as executive director for the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce for nearly 12 years, building its membership base, developing its internet presence, and increasing its influence. Ms. Palma recognized the importance of the environmental community and cultural community in shaping the economy of the Berkshires and was instrumental in ensuring these sectors had a strong voice in the Chamber’s work. The monthly Business After Hours events grew into fun gatherings where business cards were exchanged, new businesses were introduced, long time associations were renewed, issues of importance to the Berkshire economy were discussed, and participants had a good time.

Most recently she served as director of marketing and development for the much-loved Berkshire South Regional Community Center. In addition to its fine pool and fitness facilities, Berkshire South offers a range of recreational and educational programs for all age groups. Its gymnasium, auditorium and adjoining conference rooms convert easily to accommodate public events hosted by other organizations.

Ms. Palma will lead an expansion of BerkShares trade into Lee, Pittsfield, and eventually all of Berkshire County. Currently the focus of the program is in South County. Her commitment is to find more opportunities for business-to-business trade in BerkShares, closing economic loops, and keeping money and wealth circulating in the area.

The announcement of Ms. Palma’s appointment was made at the BerkShares Bash, the second anniversary celebration of BerkShares, held on September 20th at the John Dewey Academy in Great Barrington. The September weather was perfect for the Bash showing the Berkshires at its finest. The young and young at heart filled the front lawn of the famous Castle to picnic, throw Frisbees, walk on stilts, get their faces painted, watch Roger the Jester, and dance to Dog on Fleas, The Sky Trio and Shotgun Willie. Vendors included potters, jewelry makers, toy stores, food distributors, restaurants, and others from the retail, service, and culture economy, all of whom accept BerkShares in their businesses.

The Bash also showcased the newly printed BerkShares User Guide & Directory. The directory includes the history of BerkShares, the full list of participating businesses and a business-to-business listing within the directory to facilitate recirculation. Look for the updated BerkShares directory on the counters of all participating banks or let us know if you would like to feature directories at your business and we will drop off or mail a bundle to your business.

Warm regards,

Sarah Hearn
and the BerkShares Team

BerkShares
P.O. Box 125
Great Barrington, MA 01230
(413) 528-1737
http://www.BerkShares.Org
info@berkshares.org