Berkshire Money Management has recently welcomed a new addition to their team, Michael O’Brien, as a Financial Paraplanner. With a background in the insurance industry, O’Brien brings valuable experience in client service and financial planning, particularly catering to high-net-worth individuals. His role at Berkshire Money Management involves supporting the Director of Financial Planning and learning to provide personalized service to clients effectively.

O’Brien, a Pittsfield native and graduate of the Berkshire Leadership Program, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. His transition to Berkshire Money Management signifies a strategic move towards enhancing client services and expanding the firm’s financial planning capabilities. Natalie Wheeler, the Chief Operating Officer at Berkshire Money Management, expressed enthusiasm about O’Brien’s contribution and growth potential within the company.

In a bid to give back to the community, the Railroad Street Youth Project in Great Barrington undertook a charitable initiative by baking and donating 91 pies to Berkshire Bounty, an organization dedicated to providing nutritious food to emergency distribution programs across the county. Led by a team of young individuals with guidance from mentors, this endeavor aimed to spread joy during the holiday season and support families in need.

Moreover, the Eagle Fund and Janet’s Fund recently allocated over $60,000 in grants to educational enrichment programs within the Southern Berkshire Regional School District. These funds, managed under the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, support various initiatives ranging from arts and science to community engagement, highlighting the commitment to enhancing the overall educational experience for students in the region.

Additionally, 1Berkshire has announced upcoming technical assistance offerings funded by the United States Department of Agriculture through the Berkshire Economic Recovery Program. These initiatives have a proven track record of supporting local businesses through tailored training sessions, resulting in substantial business improvements and increased funding access. The program’s expansion in 2025 underscores its dedication to fostering economic growth and resilience within Berkshire County.

Furthermore, Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. and Brookline Bancorp, Inc. are set to merge in the latter half of 2025, marking a significant consolidation in the financial sector. This merger aims to create a premier financial institution in the Northeast, combining the strengths and legacies of both entities to better serve their patrons. The transition process will involve comprehensive communication with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and seamless integration.

Lastly, The Locker Room Sports Pub in Lee has introduced Sunday breakfast options to address the community’s demand for weekend morning meals. Recognizing the lack of local breakfast venues, the pub’s new menu features a variety of offerings, including waffles, avocado toast, and breakfast burritos, catering to diverse preferences. This initiative not only enriches the dining experience for residents but also contributes to the local economy by providing affordable dining options for families in the area.