Destination Better Health Series at Fairview Hospital

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Berkshire Health Systems has announced that Destination Better Health is returning to Fairview Hospital during July and August, with several informative events being held.  

Berkshire Health Systems’ Destination Better Health series brings neighbors together for free, expert-led conversations about health topics that matter most to our community. The programs, held free of charge, can help in managing health conditions, caring for loved ones, or finding smart choices for a healthier future.  

The 2026 Destination Better Health programs include:  

Wednesday July 9 at 4:30 p.m. 

The Aging Shoulder 

Presenter: Pier Boutin, MD, Fairview Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center 

That nagging ache in your shoulder may be more common than you think — and more treatable than you fear. Join our orthopedic experts as they walk through why the shoulder becomes more vulnerable with age, what symptoms to watch for, and the full range of options available, from simple exercises to surgical solutions.

Wednesday, July 15 at 4:30 p.m. 

Optimizing Your Heart Health 

Presenter: Ellen Hamm, RN, BSN, Fairview Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation 

Your heart works for you every second of every day — this session is your chance to return the favor. Learn what the latest science says about blood pressure, cholesterol, lifestyle habits, and emerging risk factors, and walk away with a practical, personalized plan to protect the engine that keeps you going. 

Wednesday, July 22 at 4:30 p.m. 

Longevity is a Daily Routine  

Presenter: Maureen Logan, M.Ed, BHS Director of Community Wellness 

Living longer isn't just about luck — it's about the small decisions you make before breakfast. This session explores the daily habits, sleep patterns, movement practices, and mindset shifts that research consistently links to a longer, healthier life. 

Wednesday, July 29 at 4:30 p.m. 

When Illness Isn't Going Away: How to Change Your Framework 

Presenter: Chris Clark, MD, Chief Hospitalist, Fairview Hospital & BHS Palliative Care Project Lead 

A chronic diagnosis can feel like a door closing, but it doesn't have to. This honest, compassionate session helps patients and caregivers to reframe living with chronic illness — shifting from surviving to thriving within a new normal. 

Wednesday, August 5 at 4:30 p.m. 

Introducing Robotic Surgery at Fairview: What It Means to Our Patients  

Presenter: Mark Taylor, MD, Fairview Surgical Services 

Fairview is proud to bring the precision of robotic-assisted surgery to our community — and we want you to understand exactly what that means to you. Our surgeons will demystify the technology, explain which procedures it's used for, and share how it translates to smaller incisions, faster recovery, and better outcomes. 

Wednesday, August 12 at 4:30 p.m. 

In a World of Diets, Choosing What's Best for You 

Presenters: Robert Hoechster, RD, LDN; Sheila Rivera RD, LDN, Fairview Hospital Nutrition Services 

Keto, Mediterranean, plant-based, intermittent fasting — the options are endless, and the noise is loud. This session cuts through the confusion with evidence-based guidance to help you understand your own body's needs and find an approach to eating that's sustainable, satisfying, and genuinely good for you.

All programs are free and take place at 4:30 p.m. in the Ground Floor Conference Room at Fairview Hospital, 29 Lewis Avenue, Great Barrington.  Due to space limitations, please pre-register here or call (413) 854-9609.

Greenagers Founder Will Conklin Honored as Business Person of the Year

By Breanna Steele12:17PM / Saturday, October 03, 2026

Casey Pease of state Sen. Paul Mark's office presents William Conklin, right, with a state Senate proclamation.

EGREMONT, Mass. — The Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce honored a local businessman and nonprofit leader on Sept. 24 at Catamount Mountain Resort.

 

William Conklin was this year's Business Person of the Year, recognizing his work as founder and executive director of Greenagers, a nonprofit that helps youth and children engage in work in environmental conservation, sustainable farming, natural resource management, and vocational skills building. 

 

Conklin and his family also run Sky View Farm and he is a managing partner of Konkapot Tree and Timber, a small-scale forest products business.

 

"If you spent any amount of time in Southern Berkshire, chances are you've heard his name, whether you realize the connection at the time or not," said board member Sierra King Watson, who emceed the event. "You might be having a conversation about farming, a new barn or structure that was built, students learning hands-on skills in sustainable agriculture, or a family that receives donated firewood to help keep their home warm through a cold Berkshire winter, or maybe you're simply talking about one of those community leaders who somehow manages to show up, support everyone, and seemingly be everywhere all at once.

 

"Well, one name has a way of continuously popping up, and that is Will Conklin."

 

Board President Mark Rulison said the region has more than 1,200 nonprofits. One in four jobs in the county is in the nonprofit sector, which ranks 27th nationally for nonprofit employment. He said the economic impact on the community is huge, thanking those who help.

 

For the event on Thursday, Conklin requested that as much of the food as possible was sourced locally. Most of it came from Greenagers, Sky View Farm, Indian Line Farm and Fancy Feast Supper Club, creative dinner series.