Dear Friends,

Happy New Year! In these challenging economic times there is a bright spot
for all of us. That bright spot is BerkShares, the local Berkshire currency
that is gaining in popularity as its reach extends throughout the County.

With BerkShares there are things we can all do to make our lives easier,
whether we’re selling a product or service, or buying things for our
businesses or our families.

For a business, the act of accepting BerkShares can bring increased
business, additional (and free) promotion, and help with your bottom line.
Keeping them in circulation by spending them with local vendors and on local
services ensures a stronger local economy, keeping our wealth in the
Berkshires to support all of us.

For a consumer, spending them whenever possible eases the financial burden
thanks to the exchange rate between BerkShares and federal dollars; when you
buy BerkShares from the participating banks you are saving money! Spending
them also says, “I support my local economy, and my friends and neighbors
who do business here.”

Learn how to make more money and how to save money. Join us at the next in a
series of informational meetings on BerkShares, Tuesday, January 13 at 8 am
at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge. Space is limited so please register by
contacting Sharon@berkshares.org or calling 413-358-2692. Light refreshments
will be provided.

Best wishes,

Sharon Palma for the BerkShares Team
P. O. Box 125
Great Barrington, MA 01230
413-528-1737
www.berkshares.org