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By any other name, it’s still as sweet. Robin’s Candy in Great Barrington re-branded as Coco’s.
Elise Contarsy
Robin’s Candy, the iconic Main Street candy shop in Great Barrington, has a new name, a refreshed look and a new owner. Now rebranded as Coco’s Candy, the beloved destination continues to offer its signature mix of nostalgic favorites and modern sweets.
The new owner, Elise Contarsy, who purchased the store from founder Robin Helfand in June, said stepping into ownership felt natural after being a customer for more than 15 years. “I was excited about the shopping experience she had built and the possibilities for the shop going forward,” she said.
Coco’s Candy is named for Contarsy’s poodle, Uncle Coconut, affectionately called Coco. “He’s the uncle of Sammy and George, our friend’s poodles,” said Contarsy. “We call him Coco for short.”
While the shop has been updated with a fresh look and an evolving assortment of candy, Contarsy said the heart of the experience remains the same. Coco’s will continue its mix of nostalgic treats and contemporary confections, along with the local chocolates and imported licorice that have long made the shop a destination. “Would you be surprised if I said licorice is my favorite candy?” she added.
Holiday shoppers will find plenty to explore this season, from treats offered for a limited-time only and fun-size classics to stocking stuffers available only during the holidays. The store will also be open seven days a week from Nov. 20 through Dec. 24 for all your sweet tooth needs.
“Our goal is to continue being a joyful part of the community,” Contarsy said. “Whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming in to check out the new look, we’re excited to welcome you to Coco’s Candy.”
Coco’s Candy is located at 288 Main St. in Great Barrington. Visit www.cocoscandy.co.
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The Joint Chiefs will perform at The Center on Main in Falls Village on Nov. 29
Provided
Local folk heroes the Joint Chiefs will visit the Center on Main in Falls Village on Saturday, Nov. 29, for a special concert. The band has been a linchpin of the Berkshire music scene for more than three decades, and founding member Eliot Osborn feels a special kinship with next week’s venue. “It’s a community space, and the Joint Chiefs are really a community band.”
It all started in northwest Connecticut. The group began playing together regularly in the mid-1990s and steadily amassed a devoted following in the area’s folk and country music circles. With a handful of studio and live albums at their disposal, this week’s audience can expect a little of everything. “People have been listening to us for so long now that we’re part of their nostalgia,” said Louise Lindenmeyr, the band’s mandolinist. “It’s almost like we’re part of their scrapbook — everybody’s just chiming right in.”
Lindenmeyr also plays the button-box accordion and sings. But she’s not the only one. Rich, complex harmonies have always been one of the Joint Chiefs’ calling cards, but lead vocals are a shared responsibility. Their instruments are always changing hands. “Music is always evolving in a healthy environment,” said Osborn. “It has to change and grow. What has stayed the same is that nobody’s really in charge. That’s why we chose the name the Joint Chiefs. There isn’t one person who dictates the musical direction.”
Guitarist George Potts and percussionist Diana Harold round out the group. The Center on Main show promises songs old and new, a welcoming holiday spirit and some of the region’s best local musicians.
The Center on Main is at 103 Main St., Falls Village. Admission is $15 at the door and doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Graham Corrigan is a writer and musician from Philadelphia currently living in Lakeville.
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Natalia Zukerman
Sascha Lewis (right), Troutbeck’s director of culture and commerce, hosted a conversation with journalist and meditation advocate Dan Harris during a Luminary Series event at Troutbeck in Amenia on Sunday, Nov. 23. Harris, author of the No. 1 New York Times bestseller “10% Happier” and host of the podcast of the same name, led a brief guided meditation before jumping into his intimate chat with Lewis and taking audience questions.
Amyre Gray sets up the offense for Bridgeport Prep.
Lans Christensen
KENT — The South Kent School Cardinals hosted Bridgeport Prep Tuesday, Nov. 18 for a prep league basketball game.
These two premiere development programs compete in the New England Prep School Athletic Conference, as well as other leagues. South Kent became NEPSAC AAA champions in 2023.
The showdown in Kent promised an exciting game with top-tier talent on the court.
Fast-paced action began within the first minutes. Both teams played aggressive, full court defense.
The evenly matched teams kept the scoring difference to within two baskets for most of the first half, which ended with 45-42 in Cardinals’ favor.

The second half began much the same until Bridgeport took the lead for the first time 56-55 with 15 minutes left. Bridgeport maintained and increased the lead from that point forward.
As the deficit grew to double digits with only one-minute left, Bridgeport’s control of game became evident.
Bridgeport guard Amyre Gray was a true spark plug for the team, both on offense and defense.
Final score was 102-90. Impressive play was shown throughout the game by both teams.

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