Black Out the System 11/25-12/2

(Action item regarding food pantry at the bottom of this Newsletter)

Join the Mass Blackout: A Historic Economic Protest

From November 25th to December 2nd, the Mass Blackout calls for the largest economic blackout protest in U.S. history. This powerful movement isn’t just asking for change — it’s shutting it down to make a statement that cannot be ignored.

What does this mean?

• No work!
• No spending!
• No restaurants!
• No projects!
• No events!(Unless its protests)

No backing out! This collective pause is designed to show the true power of our community’s economic choices and to send a message that our dollars belong in local hands — not corporate giants.

Why It Matters to Berkshire County

The Mass Blackout isn’t just a protest it’s a chance to demonstrate the strength of our local economy by supporting independent, community-owned businesses before, during, and after these dates. This intentional spending shift helps keep wealth circulating in our towns and neighborhoods, fostering jobs, keeping storefronts vibrant, and sustaining the character that makes the Berkshires so special.

What Does “Power with Our Dollar” Mean?

It’s simple: every dollar you spend is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. By consciously avoiding large corporations: no Amazon, no Starbucks, no Target, we’re reminding ourselves and others that real power lies in community-driven economies, not in corporate monopolies. Most importantly, No Companies that support ICE.

Buying from local makers, artists, and family-owned businesses keeps our money circulating here supporting fair wages, creativity, and connection. It’s an act of economic resistance and community care.

Shop Local in The Heart of the Berkshires

Let’s highlight just a few of the wonderful places that make our area unique. This isn’t a full list (and please add your own favorites!), but it’s a start:

Downtown Pittsfield & Lenox

• Dory & Ginger – Beautiful home goods and locally made gifts.
• Indie Readery & Records- Progressive book store and records, Looking for banned books? you can find them here. Also they have great political stickers!
• Carr Hardware – Family-owned for generations, with everything from tools to local know-how.
• The Plant connector (North Adams)- Beautiful plants and decorative pieces.
• Wander Berkshires- A warm and inviting Trans owned Cafe, event space, and darkroom.

🍽️ Eat & Drink Local

• Dottie’s Coffee Lounge (Pittsfield) – Locally roasted coffee and community vibes.
• Roses Restaurant (Lee) - this bright, historic house-turned-restaurant brings a welcoming and relaxed vibe for breakfast and lunch.
• Neon Newt ( Becket)- Fresh Food, Welcoming Atmosphere, and amazing pastries  
• Starving Artist Cafe( Lee) LGBTQ Friendly, expect freshly made sweet and savory crepes, paninis, soups, salads, organic coffees and teas — with many vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options 
• Joes Diner (Lee)- Local Landmark due to Norman Rockwell, Amazing food, nostalgic and great prices.
• Route 8 Pub(Becket) – Family owned pub delicious burgers and friendly atmosphere.
• Papa Bobs(Becket) – Great pizza, burgers, dinner/comfort food. Warm atmosphere with a pool table and Pet Friendly!
• The Lost Lamb ( Stockbridge)- LGBTQ friendly, Decadent pastries and wonderful tea and coffee.
• The Marketplace Café (Pittsfield & Sheffield) – Delicious local food with heart.
• Sibaritas(Pittsfield)- Italian Fusion Restaurant

🎨 Local Makers & Galleries

• Berkshire Art Center (Pittsfield) – Support local artists and pick up handmade gifts.
• Becket Arts Center (Becket)- Visit their shop or gift a yoga class to someone you love
• Shire Fire Candles (Lee) – Hand-poured candles with local love.
• Berkshire Mountain Bakery (Housatonic) – Fresh bread that tastes like home.

When we fill our baskets here, we’re fueling local jobs, sustaining creativity, and keeping the Berkshires strong. If your feeling tempted to hop on Amazon or the like, Remember to ask yourself before making a purchase " Can I buy this locally instead?, can I make it myself?, or can it wait?"

❤️ Action Is Key: Support Our Neighbors in Need

Economic action also means caring for those who are struggling. The Becket Food Pantry needs our help this Thanksgiving season. With SNAP funding cuts, more families than ever will rely on the generosity of their community.

The Pantry is preparing a special Thanksgiving food distribution, and your contributions can make a real difference.

Drop-Off Date: 📅 Monday, November 17 at 4 PM 📍 Becket Food Pantry

If you can’t deliver items yourself, the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Committee will offer pickup and delivery that day — details to come.

Requested Donations:

• 12–14 lb frozen turkeys
• Frozen turkey breasts
• $5 & $10 Big Y gift cards

Each turkey, each card, each act of care helps make the holiday brighter for a neighbor in need.

✊ Local Action, Real Impact

Together, these choices, where we spend, what we give, and how we help, send a clear message: We believe in community resilience, economic justice, and mutual care.

Let’s make the Berkshires shine by showing that our dollars, our actions, and our hearts are united for good.