Month: April 2013

Director of Sales, Yankee Candle Co., age 33

Ralph DiVito Jr. says the city of Springfield played a major role in his development.
“Where I grew up in Boston helped make me into who I am, but Western Mass. helped mold me into a productive adult and member of the community,” said the Springfield resident. “There is something about Springfield that is special and unique, and I feel at home here. I like everything the city has to offer, and every blessing I have been given, I am trying to give back.”
DiVito wants the City of Homes to return to its former glory, and has spent untold hours working toward that goal as the vice chairman of Rebuilding Together Springfield. His leadership and vision have helped chart the course for a long-term, sustainable future, and he has been a house captain two years in a row on National Rebuilding Day, recruiting volunteers, soliciting donations of building materials, and managing projects which help people improve their homes.
DiVito said there is a link between his professional and volunteer efforts. “I lead our division at work that helps independent store owners,” he said of his role at Yankee Candle, adding that they, as well as the homeowners Rebuilding assists, are “everyday people,” which is important because “Main Street is really the backbone of America, and when there are viable stores and viable homes, it helps make the community strong. So, in all aspects of my life, I am trying to create a place where people can coexist and support each other.”
His dedication at work has helped many locally owned businesses become stronger through marketing, communication, and grass-roots events. He also helped lead a fund-raiser for a shelter in Hoboken, N.J. when its resources were depleted following Hurricane Sandy.
DiVito said Springfield is a microcosm of America, as it is made up of different groups who form a great community. So he works tirelessly to help “get the city back on its feet. It’s my goal, one business at a time and one house at a time. I want to showcase to all of Western Mass. that this is a great place.”

— Kathleen Mitchell

Introducing the Class 2013

40 Under 40 Cover Story The Class of 2013

The Young Business and Community Leaders of Western Massachusetts

In 2007, BusinessWest introduced a new recognition program called 40 Under Forty. It was intended as a vehicle for showcasing young talent in the four counties of Western Mass. and, in turn, inspire others to reach higher and do more in their community.
Six years later, it has accomplished all that and much more. The program has become a brand, the awards gala has become one of the most anticipated events of the year, and the 40 Under Forty plaque that sits on one’s desk has become both a coveted prize and symbol of excellence, recognized by all.
On June 20 at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, 40 more plaques will be handed out, to members of a class that is both distinguished and diverse. It includes bankers, lawyers, and accountants, but also a Holyoke city councilor, a contractor who specializes in blitz building, and Springfield’s senior project manager. And it represents virtually every business sector, from healthcare to education; from technology to the nonprofit realm.
With that, we introduce the Class of 2013 with words (enough to explain why they’re an honoree) and pictures that tell a big part of each story, whether the winner is captured with his or her children, dog, company mascot, or even a giant corpuscle. The stories are all different, but the common denominator is that these young individuals possess that most important of qualities: leadership.

2013 40 Under Forty Winners:

Timothy Allen
Meaghan Arena
Adrian Bailey Dion
Jason Barroso
Elizabeth Beaudry
Melyssa Brown
Kam Capoccia
Jeremy Casey
Tommy Cosenzi
Erin Couture
Geoffrey Croteau
William Davila
Ralph DiVito Jr.
Shaun Dwyer
Erin Fontaine Brunelle
William Gagnon
Allison Garriss
Annamarie Golden
Lina Alexandra Hogan
Samalid Hogan
Xiaolei Hua
Mark Jardim
Danny Kates
Jeremy Leap
Danielle Letourneau-Therrien
Isaac Mass
Kelvin Molina
Brenna Murphy McGee
Vanessa Pabon
John Pantera
Justin Pelis
Shonda Pettiford
Shannon Reichelt
N. Andrew Robb
Stacy Robison
Rachel Romano
Jennifer Root
Jonathan Stolpinski
Walter Tomala Jr.
Mark Zatyrka

Meet the Judges — Click Here

Photography for this special section by Denise Smith Photography

Guest Perspective

Opinion

What Would Horace Moses Do?

At one time, Horace Moses may have been best known as the president of the Strathmore Paper Co. in West Springfield, but his legacy is much bigger than that.
In 1919, Moses founded Junior Achievement, the worldwide financial training program for young people. Growing up on his family’s farm, Moses acquired the habits of fiscal responsibility and entrepreneurship. He not only worked the fields, but networked with a variety of business owners to sell the farm’s products.
Moses was quick to learn that through hard work, determination, and ambition, one can achieve the American Dream. His philosophy wasn’t limited to personal gain, however. Moses donated his time and wealth to a variety of worthwhile causes. One initiative close to his heart was ensuring that children develop the skills to secure their own economic success. It was this goal that led Moses and Theodore Vail, president of American Telephone & Telegraph to found Junior Achievement right here in Western Massachusetts.
Today, JA is the world’s largest organization dedicated to educating students about workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy through experiential, hands-on programs. Although born of humble beginnings on the Big E fairgrounds, JA reaches more than 4 million students each year across the United States, and another 6 million in countries around the world. JA’s volunteer-delivered K-12 programs help prepare students for the real world by showing them how to effectively manage their finances, generate wealth, and help build robust communities.
Moses and Vail realized the importance of teaching young people that thrift, economy, and industry are necessary to sustain the American vision. Almost 100 years later, nothing has changed.
Each year, roughly 1.3 million students drop out of school. Each dropout costs society approximately $200,000 in lost tax revenue and government expenditures over his or her lifetime. The personal cost of dropping out of school isn’t just economic — there’s a psychological price, as well. As someone who’s gone from high school dropout to college graduate, I can tell you that being a dropout can be debilitating. The lack of skills eventually damages your self-confidence, resulting in a social paralysis. You feel trapped in your situation. You want to work, to achieve, but lack the foundation and support system to overcome your circumstance.
Horace Moses knew that it doesn’t have to be that way, and that by investing in our children we could help them become productive participants in our national economy.
Addressing the dropout population is only part of the solution. Approxinately 45% of today’s college graduates don’t have the skills to advance past an entry-level job. Managers at more than 53% of large companies and 67% of small companies say it’s difficult to recruit employees with the skills, training, and education their companies require. In time, this skills gap will invariably weaken our ability to compete in the global marketplace. Helping our children aspire to succeed is not only imperative to their own well-being, but to our own economic and entrepreneurial survival.
What would Horace Moses do in the face of today’s problems? He would commit his resources to find a solution. That’s why he co-founded Junior Achievement. JA supports youth development by fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship, and by instilling and modeling key business and work-readiness concepts such as leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking.
I encourage you to join me in following his example by making an investment in the youth of Western Mass. We don’t need to dedicate the time or resources Moses had at his disposal. We already have a structure, it just needs caring professionals, community leaders, and supporters. Find out how you can empower students to stay in school, develop the skills necessary for economic success, and live the life each of us hopes for for our own children.
Get involved with Junior Achievement of Western Mass., your local school system, or other worthwhile cause. You can change the direction of a generation. That’s what Horace Moses would do.

Thom Fox is the community outreach director at Cambridge Credit Counseling and vice chairman of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts. He also serves as a start-up mentor at Valley Venture Mentors, member of the National Academy Foundation STEM-21 Advisory Board at Sci-Tech, and member of the Financial Stability Network of Hampden County; (413) 330-5254; [email protected].

Company Notebook

Company Notebook Departments

Urgent Care of Wilbraham Opens Its Doors
WILBRAHAM — Urgent Care of Wilbraham, PC recently opened its doors at 2040 Wilbraham Road. The facility, owned and operated by Richard J. Freniere and Rock Jean-Guillaume, both board-certified emergency medicine physicians, provides professional medical care without an appointment. The clinic is equipped to handle a wide range of health-related issues, including aches and pains, allergies, asthma, bites and burns, bone injuries and fractures, cuts and laceration repairs, earaches, fevers, infections, pediatric illness, sprains and strains, sore throats, upper respiratory illnesses, vomiting and diarrhea, and other urgent illnesses or injuries. The facility is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, www.UrgentCareofWilbraham.com.

AIM Honors LENOX with Global Trade Award
EAST LONGMEADOW — The Associated Industries of Massachusetts International Business Council (AIM-IBC) announced that LENOX, based in East Longmeadow, is one of three winners of its18th annual Global Trade Awards, which recognize Massachusetts firms, institutions, and public agencies of all sizes that have demonstrated excellence in international trade. The other winners are Millipore, in Billerica, and Kinefac, in Worcester. The three companies will be honored at AIM’s 98th Annual Meeting on May 10 at the Waltham Westin Hotel. The event will include a keynote address by Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick. Originally known as the American Saw & Manufacturing Company, LENOX, winner of the Ambassador’s Award, has been a leader in premium-performance tools such as band saw blades and power tool accessories since its founding in 1915. LENOX counts 900 employees worldwide, including over 600 in Massachusetts. Nearly half of production is exported around the world, to China and Asia, Brazil and Latin America, and Europe. LENOX has continued to grow by understanding its customers’ needs and adapting its products and services for new industries in global markets. Over the past 10 years, LENOX has invested $100 million in new capital for its only manufacturing facility worldwide, located in East Longmeadow. The company has hired more than 120 people in Western Mass. in the past two years. LENOX is part of Newell Rubbermaid, the global marketer of consumer and commercial products. “Our Global Trade Award winners are exemplary Massachusetts businesses that don’t think in terms of boundaries or borders, but in terms of opportunity,” said Richard Lord, president and CEO of AIM. “Taking advantage of all that Massachusetts has to offer positions companies like our winners for exceptional global success.”

United Bank Foundation Awards $43,000 to Area Non-profits
WEST SPRINGFIELD — The United Bank Foundation announced recently that it has awarded $43,000 to 11 non-profit organizations in the Springfield region in its most recent round of funding. The grants covered a variety of programs and initiatives throughout the Springfield area:
• The foundation awarded $10,000, to be paid over two years, to Elms College in Chicopee toward the construction of a Center for Natural and Health Sciences;
• The Gateway Education Foundation Inc., based in Huntington, received a grant of $5,000 for its “Funds for Learning Program.” The program supports school projects that fall outside of the budgets of the seven schools in the Gateway school district;
• Human Resources Unlimited Inc. in Springfield received $5,000 for its Changing Habits Transforming Lives job readiness and placement program;
• WestMass Eldercare was awarded $5,000 to fund services for low- income elders in Holyoke, South Hadley, Chicopee, and surrounding areas;
• Junior Achievement (JA) of Western Massachusetts was awarded $4,000 to expand programs in Holyoke, Northampton, and East Longmeadow;
• The Western Mass. Council, Boy Scouts of America received $3,500 for the continuation, enhancement, and expansion of the Scoutreach programs in Springfield;
• In Holyoke, the Public Library received $2,500 from the foundation to support the month-long series “Holyoke Points of View” in April;
• Springfield Partners for Community Action was awarded $2,000 for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Earned Income Tax Credit Program for low income individuals;
• The Westfield Public Schools received $1,000 to fund the purchase of materials needed for the high school science fair and advancement to the regional and state finals.
• The foundation awarded $2,500 to World Is Our Classroom to fund the Westfield Manufacturing Education initiative at Mestek Inc., a collaboration with the Westfield Public Schools to offer fifth-grade students a hands-on application of science and technology in a real life manufacturing plant setting; and
• In West Springfield, the foundation awarded $2,500 to the high school to fund the purchase of the National Archery in Schools curriculum.
The United Bank Foundation has awarded more than $1.7 million in grants since it was established in 2005 as a permanent source of funding to benefit communities in United Bank’s market area. The Foundation board of directors meets quarterly to review requests submitted by 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in cities and towns served by United Bank branches. The foundation’s four primary funding areas of interest are education, health and human services, youth development and cultural programs. Foundation guidelines can be found online at bankatunited.com.

Briefcase

Briefcase Departments

Volunteers to Renovate 25 Houses in One Day
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield affiliate of Rebuilding Together has announced that a unique ‘cluster rebuild’ of 25 homes, all on contiguous streets in the Old Hill neighborhood of Springfield, will take place April 27, which is the organization’s National Rebuilding Day. The homes will be renovated with an eye on improved health and energy efficiency. About 1,000 volunteers will pour onto Tyler and Quincy streets to assist in the renovations, which will include a conversion from oil heat to natural gas, with street hookups included as an in-kind donation by Columbia Gas, as well as new and proper insulation of all homes and apartments. Other work to be undertaken includes new roofs, energy-efficient windows and doors, proper ventilation, painting, age-in-place modifications, electrical and plumbing repairs, CO2 and smoke detectors, deadbolt locks, vinyl siding and ramps, and outdoor work including yard cleanup, fencing, landscaping, and shrub and flower planting. Improvements will also be made to the neighborhood as a whole, including the fixup of a neighborhood playground, the creation of a community garden for growing fresh fruit and vegetables, improvements to the Old Hill Neighborhood Council office at Eastern Avenue and Quincy Street, and improvements to the Masonic Lodge on Tyler Street. TD Bank will sponsor a cookout on Tyler Street at the end of the day. Many of the families benefiting from the renovations have seen their share of hardship; one of the residences is Oscar and Carol Granado’s home at 163 Tyler St., where they have lived for 32 years and raised a family. Carol was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, and Oscar is still working at age 72 to pay for health insurance to cover her medical costs. Donors and event sponsors are pitching in to get the Granados a new roof; electrical, carpentry, and plumbing repairs; mold removal; and an exterior facelift. “It’s great to see everybody happy,” Carol said of the neighborhood excitement surrounding the cluster rebuild. “Everyone is having things done that they can’t afford to get done, or can’t do themselves. We will never forget this day.” Rebuilding Together Springfield is in its 21st year of existence and completed the rebuilding of 71 homes in Springfield in the past year, with help from some 5,000 volunteers.

Building Permits

Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of April 2013.

AGAWAM

David St. John
441 Silver St.
$35,000 — Exterior renovation

Joseph Walz, DMD
302 Suffield St.
$3,000 — Siding repair

Pioneer Tool
40 Bowles Road
$33,000 — Re-roof

RHM Realty
207 Bowles Road
$10,000 — Renovations

AMHERST

Amherst Presidential Village, LLC
950 North Pleasant St.
$8,000 — Insulate attic and weather stripping

Bank of America
1 South Pleasant St.
$35,000 — Provide new ADA compliant ramps and sidewalks

IAT Partnership, LLC
49 Boltwood Walk
$5,000 — Interior renovations

CHICOPEE

Fannie Mae
607 Burnett Road
$12,500 — Strip and re-roof

IB Investments, LLC
64 Ames St.
$19,000 — Replacement windows

Our Lady of Elms
291 Springfield St.
$388,000 — Duct system for new science center

Van Guard Consignment
450 New Ludlow Road
$12,800 — Install new roof

River Valley Council Inc.
247 Exchange St.
$70,000 — Renovation for new mental health office

HADLEY

Justin Hoehn
206 Russell St.
$7,500 — Replace roof

Stephen Smith
367 Russell St.
$10,000 — Install new storefront

HOLYOKE

Holyoke Hospital
6 Isabella St.
$9,000 – Bathroom renovations

Mass Housing Finance
346 Maple St.
$10,000 — Replace windows

NORTHAMPTON

518 Pleasant Street, LLC
518 Pleasant St.
$50,000 — Replace roof

Atwood Drive, LLC
8 Atwood Dr.
$240,000 — Build out third floor

Chamisa Corporation
25 Main St.
$10,500 — Renovate Veracruzana loading dock

Coolidge Center, LLC
47 Pleasant St.
$47,000 — Renovate second floor

Serio Cosimo
69 State St.
$7,000 — Strip and shingle roof

SOUTH HADLEY

Pioneer Valley Photo Voltaics
11 Parker St.
$42,000 — Install solar panels

SPRINGFIELD

Freedom Credit Union
1985 Main St.
$67,000 — Tenant fit out

JRH Realty Inc.
1673 Main St.
$8,000 — Minor renovations for take-out restaurant

Robert Allen
1819 Page Blvd.
$71,000 — Build out front offices

Steve’s Alignment
170 Taylor St.
$16,000 — New roof

The MRI Centers of NE
3640 Main St.
$48,000 — Interior remodel

United Bank
1946 Wilbraham Road
$1,020,000 — Construction of a new bank branch

Yukon Group, LLC
101 Wason Ave.
$683,000 — Interior fit out for new tenant

WESTFIELD

Falcone Retail
66 Main St.
$9,000 — Interior renovation

FHB Realty
36 Elm St.
$18,000 — Renovation

WEST SPRINGFIELD

1275 LLC
1275 Elm Street
$49,000 — Renovate 2,450 square feet of office space

Bertera Fiat
657 Riverdale St.
$965,000 — New 12,054-square-foot pre-engineered steel building

Mercier Carpet
1343 Riverdale St.
$279,000 — Rooftop mounted solar array

Bankruptcies

Bankruptcies Departments

The following bankruptcy petitions were recently filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Readers should confirm all information with the court.

Agapov, Sergei
7 Danielle Dr.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

Archuleta, David A.
70 Sroka Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

Ayala, Yolanda
31 Oswego 4B
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/25/13

Beaudry, Matthew C.
11 Parsons St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

Brown, Stephen J.
Brown, Melissa S.
216 Pleasant St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/25/13

Caldwell, Ora H.
39B North Main St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/21/13

Campbell, Eileen
339 Newton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Carrasquillo, Jorge L.
Carrasquillo, Adelaida
35 Driftwood Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

Castro, Jason Michael
12 Chmura St., Apt. D
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

Charest, Todd Michael
Charest, Kimberly Lynn
a/k/a Thoren, Kimberly L.
a/k/a Norton, Kimberly
201 Dorset St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Cintron, Alexandra R.
a/k/a Barros, Alexandra
a/k/a Cintron, Alexandra Rocio
2 Monmouth St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Colvin, Beverly M.
400 Allen Park Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Corbett Home Improvement
Corbett, Edward T.
4 Reed St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Daniels, Sarajane
a/k/a Hubley, Sarajane
P.O. Box 108
Montague, MA 01351
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Davidovich, Veronica Jean
a/k/a Lees, Veronica
404 Southwick Road #25
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Dean, Brandi L.
1231 North Hoosac Road, Apt. 302
Williamstown, MA 01267
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

DeSouza, Lorraine R.
18 Dalton Place
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/28/13

Dubuque, Christopher D.
Dubuque, Brenda M.
a/k/a Lanney, Brenda M.
108 Nelson St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/19/13

Earle, Diana C.
10 Riley Switch Road
Phillipston, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Encarnacion, Mayra D.
206 Pearl St., Apt. 4
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

English, Patricia A.
25-27 Van Ness St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

ERA Classics Real Estate
Weber, Sheila R.
48 Jefferson St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/19/13

Feliciano, Edwin J.
Feliciano, Chang San
20 Arlington St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Fortier, Ronny E.
81 Conz St.
Apartment 608
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Fortunato Entertainment
Fortunato, John Francis
170 Parkerview St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

Gamble, Tracy M.
a/k/a Steadman, Tracy M.
37 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Garrafa, Evelyn
25 Judson St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Guarnera, Jessica L.
62 Searles St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

Illig, Brenda K.
52 Yvette St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Johnson, Jessica C.
78 Price St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Jones, Crystal L.
33 Eckington St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

Kalagher, Erin Marie
100 Hillside Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Kaminski, Keith K.
74 Breakneck Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/19/13

King, Kathleen R.
117 Leitch St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/19/13

Leclerc, James T.
Ames-Leclerc, Tammy L.
340A Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Lightcap, John C.
114 Lantern Lane
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Lucky Charm Daycare
Stebbins, Dennis P.
Stebbins, Elizabeth J.
220 Arcade St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

MacKay, Judith Ann
115 Brookside Circle
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/19/13

Maruco, Bryce J.
45 North St., 2nd Fl.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/21/13

Matos, Janet
68 Savoy St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/28/13

Moran, William P.
Moran, Kathleen F.
655 West Cherry St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

Murphy, Mary Ann
577 Pinedale Ave.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Muzzy, John Robert
98 Allston Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Nash, Carole E.
a/k/a Yeramian, Carole
23 Claremont Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Nguyen, Andy
P.O. Box 80342
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

O’Connor, Ellen B.
66 Harkness Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Osborne, Bradford G.
181 Elm St., Apt. 12
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Ouellette, Stephen
1 Darby Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Peck, Jacqueline Nancy
35 Bald Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Peffer, Theresa M.
20 Oak St.
Gill, MA 01354
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

Pellerin, Edward J.
54 Ball St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/25/13

Petersoli, Kimberly
331 Bradley St., Lot 1
Lee, MA 01238
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Piubeni, Jeffrey S.
19 Pheasant Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/27/13

Pizarro, Aisha A.
Vazquez, Arleen E.
5 East Laramee Green Way
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Powers, Rachel Irene
a/k/a Craig, Rachel Irene
1747 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Reome, Chris
Reome, Deborah
414 Britton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/19/13

Roberts, Kenneth J.
40 Wilson Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

Rodman, Todd E.
Rodman, Nancy J.
403 Pochassic Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Rodriguez, Margarita
29 Wentworth St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/23/13

Romain, Tracy C.
PO Box 191898
Boston, MA 02119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/18/13

Rusinque, Hector
Rusinque, Idalia
114 Hampden St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Sanchez, Jessica
131 Meadow St., Rear
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/25/13

Sepulveda, William A.
Sepulveda, William B.
14 State St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Serwanski, Ian R.
Serwanski, Susan A.
a/k/a Plouffe, Susan A.
24 Hilton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/28/13

Shepardson, Robert J.
Shepardson, Margaret A.
2154 Main St
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/29/13

Smith, Gerard A.
6 Bates St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/22/13

Soto, Raymond L.
138 Jasper St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/25/13

Steadward, Gail M.
19 Sherwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

Sutter, Jason Lee
29 Worthy Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/19/13

Swan, Sarah F.
507 E. Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/20/13

The Charles E. Talbot Building
2071 Page Blvd.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 11
Filing Date: 03/25/13

Thomas, Mary
a/k/a Fitzgerald, Mary
72 Chesterfield Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/19/13

Torres, Teresa P.
P.O. Box 208
Pittsfield, MA 01202
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Velez, Epifanio
43 Davis St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/26/13

Wager, Jennifer R.
58 Livingston Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/25/13

Wells, Kristi L.
124 Birch Grove Dr.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/21/13

Doing Business As Certificates

DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of and April 2013.

AGAWAM

Che-Bella Salon
833 Springfield St.
Kaitlin Joslyn

Empire Music Group
33 Norman Terrace
Jermaine Norfleet

Nomnom Hunt
67 Hunt St.
Marcy Megarry

AMHERST

Fit Women
6 University Dr.
Megan Earle

Lyra Cleaning Services
170 East Hadley Road
Marise Lyra

South Amherst Family Dentistry
6 University Place
Richard Pastorello

The Good Life Collective
44 Amity Place
Kathleen Ahamed-Broadhurst

Whirlwind Fine Garden Design
29 Hartman Road
Christopher Baxter

CHICOPEE

Community Substance Abuse Center
628 Center St.
Matthew Davis

M2 Creations Balloons
51 Springfield St.
Michelle Martinez

Psychibilities
188 Chicopee St.
Kathi Munson

Quick Stop Convenience
1177 Granby Road
Maroot Ahmed

Rivoli’s
43 Springfield St.
Konrad Wargulenski

HADLEY

Botanica Ramses
206 Russell St.
Bernardo Galvez

Debra Rusenko
8 Goeffe St.
Debra Rusenko

OcteVue
6 Kosier Dr.
Mark B. Ketchen

Peter’s Farm
112 East St.
Clinton Peters

Split Excavating Inc.
8 Mill Valley Road
Brenda Fydenkevez

Spruce Hill Motors
235 Russell St.
Randy Izer

HOLYOKE

Cake Lady
123 High St.
Rosa Burgos

Carolina Bedding of Western Mass
68 Cherry St.
Daniel Wells

Charlene’s Boutique
50 Holyoke St.
Charlene Naylor

Consumer Auto Parts
239 South St.
Davio Gerry

Extreme Auto Body, LLC
170 Main St.
Porfirio Santiago

Hobby Lobby Creative Center
50 Holyoke St.
Lisa Q. Ley

Kim’s Nail Salon, LLC
98 Lower Westfield Road
Kimchi Huynh

Nextdine, LLC
330 Whitney Ave.
Gregg Hartman

Star Dancer’s Unity
671 High St.
Alexcelin Saldana

NORTHAMPTON

Born Perfect
72 Center St.
Jaye McElroy

Center for Healthy Bones
766 North King St.
Mary P. Roy

Community Substance Abuse Center
297 Pleasant St.
Matthew Davis

Heart House Studio
68 Cherry St.
Kendra Rosenblatt

Purple Run for a Cure
33 Liberty St.
Thomas McCusker

Push Public
2 Conz St.
Mauricio Abascal

Repair Collective
20 Linden St.
Timothy McNevney

SOUTHWICK

ABC Masonary & Waterproofing
32 North Longyard Road
David Turner

BD Bookkeeping
27 Honey Pot Rd.
Brian Deslauriers

FJ Auctions
58 Fred Jackson Road
Francis Jacquier

The Crack Man
13 Ed Holcomb Road
Ian Dudek

SPRINGFIELD

Lilly’s Closet
33 Fairhaven Dr.
Tonya Foggs

Mass Elite Dance Team
431 White St.
Tyrone Humphries

Mass Mobile Communication
542 Page Blvd.
Ismael Bernabel

Mei Management, LLC
90 Merrill Road
Mei N. Li

Mema’s II Family Childcare
45 Valley Road
Lakisha Marie

Mill Work Carpentry
125 Oakland St.
Jorge E. Gomez

Motivate-Educate-Graduate
79 Villa Parkway
Neel P. Abdul-Hameed

Mourad Hussein
435 Dwight St.
Hussein H. Mourad

MPS Solutions
22 Candice Circle
Christopher Decoteau

Nails Model
459 Main St.
Tran X. Nguyen

New England Landscaping
837 State St.
Chauncy Rayvon

New England Wholesalers
724 Page Blvd.
Carlos G. Dias

Olympus House
280 Sumner Ave.
Michael Schneider

Oriental Mini Market
405 Dickinson St.
Hiep Q. Ngo

Pioneer Valley Electrolysis
1188 Parker St.
Dawna L. Brisebois

Professional Handy Services
25 Barnet St.
Robert V. Tyler

Punderson Oil
80 Hannon St.
Suburban Heating Oil

R.E.D. Roofing
53 Bristol St.
Ruben Gonzalez

Rosario’s Junk Removal
60 Glenwood St.
Carlos Rosario

Samuel Cardona
31 Wilton St.
Samuel Cardona

Sherwin-Williams Company
670 Boston Road
Scott Sikon

Springfield Donuts Inc.
1761 Allen St.
Derek Salema

Talco CNC Solutions
34 Front St.
Thomas A. LeMay

Targeted Biostrategies
106 Bellevue Ave.
Merribeth J. Morin

The Detail Shop
36 Amity Court
Jeremiah Nolan

The Last Detail Complete
23 Morgan St.
Angel L. Torres

Tom Tom Painting
151 Forest Park Ave.
Thomas E. Sattal

Tyler John Inc.
28 Verge St.
Samuel J. Wilson

Universal Real Estate Services
115 State St.
Daniel D. Kelly

Visionary Investments
49 Daviston St.
Jonathan Thurrott

Visual Memories
102 Elm St.
Shannon Cigal

Western MA Marketing
903 St. James Ave.
Mary K. Garvey

Whip City Pool & Spa Service
31 Valley View Dr.
Jeffrey P. Roberts

Writeturn
161 Newhouse St.
Valentino Larese Jr.

WESTFIELD

551 Salon
551 North Road
Gay K. Smith

Comfort Air
21 Barbara St.
Vladimir F. Lesnik

D & D Cleaning Services
322 Papermill Road
Deborah A. Gaudette

Dynamic Fitness
77 Mill St.
Daniel Oleksak

Frugal Fashionista Consignment
1029 North Road
Jean-Marie Aubin

Humacao Auto Detailing & Floors
507 Southampton Road
Angel Villanueva

L.C. Landscaping & Property Maintenance
291 Russellville Road
Leroy Clink

Letourneau & Sons Painting
30 Crown St.
William R. Letourneau

Squid Decals
30 Bush St.
Emily Anton

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Best Painters
19 Hill St.
Daniel Santiago

Caspian Transportation
34 Craig Dr.
Seymur Musayev

Fab 247
51 Van Deene Ave.
Vanessa M. Jackson

Glam Buttons
19 Wishing Well Way
Renee Reed

J & L Medical Services
201 Park Ave.
John Loyer

Max Enterprises
35 Prospect St.
Cuong Le

Natural Nails
244 Memorial Ave.
Cam Pham

Premier Coaching
946 Amostown Road
Meiron George

The A.P. Sabourin Studio
51 Ridgeview Road
Andrew P. Sabourin

Incorporations

Departments Incorporations

The following business incorporations were recorded in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties and are the latest available. They are listed by community.

AGAWAM

New England Intermodal Services Inc., 57 Barn Road, Agawam, MA 01001. Cynthia Herring, same. Trucking company.

AMHERST

Notch Consulting Inc., 535 West St., Amherst, MA 01002. Paul Ita, same. Market research and consulting.

CHICOPEE

Kelly’s Inc., 621 Center St., Chicopee MA 01013. Leo Buono, 44 Oak Hollow Road, Springfield, MA 01128. Lounge.

Mija Inc., 95 Ward St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Michael Gibson, same. Adult entertainment web cam.

EASTHAMPTON

Molly Montgomery Painting Inc., 69 Pleasant St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Molly Montgomery, same. Painting.

GRANBY

M.R. Cote Inc., 71 Kendall St., Granby, MA 01033. Michael Cote, same. Electrical contracting and carpentry.

HADLEY

Mathematical Staircase Inc., 278 Bay Road, Hadley, MA 01035. Sarah-Marie Belcastro, same. To educate mathematically talented secondary and tertiary students.

HATFIELD

Jessica Marie Photography Inc., 22 North Hatfield Road, Hatfield, MA 01038. Jessica Marie Kacsenski, same. Photography service.

HOLYOKE

La Copa Inc., 447 Main St., Holyoke, MA. Aida Dejesus, 34 Britton St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Bar and restaurant.

Movimiento Pentecostal Poder Y Uncion, 77 Hamilton St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Organization of churches within the United States and abroad.

LUDLOW

JW Dobiecki Consulting Inc., 70 Applewood Dr., Ludlow, MA 01056. John Walter Dobiecki. Consulting services.

L&L Supply and Mechanical Inc., 399 Fuller St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Lindsay Lemek, 425 Fuller St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Equipment and materials for water and sewer mains.

MONSON

J & T Sisley Corporation, 194 Moulton Hill Road, Monson, MA 01057. Joan Lowbridge-Sisley, same. Information-technology consulting.

PALMER

M. Scott Construction Inc., 21 Wilbraham St., Office #203, Palmer, MA 01069. Michael Scott, 93 Hovey Road, Monson, MA 01057. Trucking and consulting.

PITTSFIELD

Jesters Inc., 35 Grant St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Christina Gillette, same. Food services.

SPRINGFIELD

Julie’s Hollywood Café Inc., 374 Allen Park Road, Apt. 374, Springfield, MA 01118. Julie Ratzenberger, same. Food and beverage service — bar.

Karss Inc., 1324 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119. Muhammed Warasat, 30 Wyndward Road, Longmeadow, MA 01106. Restaurant.

Mamarazzi Photography Inc., 6 Kenway Dr., Springfield, MA 01104. Jacqueline Slattion, 83 McKinley Ave., Ludlow MA 01058. Photography.

Marden Homes Inc., 86 Milford St., Springfield, MA 01107. Marshal Walden, same. To buy repair and sell real estate.

Maroon Corporation, 78 Randolph St., Springfield, MA 01108. Brennan Tougias, same. Food service.

Newton Road Press Inc., 986 Allen St., Springfield, MA 01118. Daivd Karwoski, same. Books and written materials.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

New Era Inc., 39 Rochelle St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Arshad Imam, same. Gas station.

WESTFIELD

Jayco Manufacturing Inc., 121 Summit Lock Road, Suite #1, Westfield, MA 01085. Joseph Michonski, 86 Joseph Ave., Westfield, MA 01085. Manufacturing of precision aerospace parts for various local businesses.

New England Eating Disorders Alliance Inc., 7 Fairview St., Westfield, MA 01085. Viktoria Filev, same. To prevent eating disorders through education, awareness, and support in recovery.

Real Estate Transactions

Departments Real Estate

The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

BERNARDSTON

167 West Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Scudder Bay Capital LLC
Seller: Thomas R. Scott
Date: 03/21/13

BUCKLAND

18 Orcutt Hill Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Mark A. Amstein
Seller: Mark E. Pichette
Date: 03/20/13

70 Upper St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Luarie M. Benoit
Seller: FNMA
Date: 03/15/13

CHARLEMONT

215 Main St.
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $184,500
Buyer: Jodi M. Tanguay
Seller: Robert M. Gritzner
Date: 03/11/13

DEERFIELD

4 Braeburn Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $135,200
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Helan E. Page
Date: 03/18/13

34 Mathews Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jaime Recore
Seller: Tsay F. Jenn
Date: 03/21/13

GREENFIELD

103 Burnham Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Carrie H. Dubino
Seller: Morrison, Helen D. (Estate)
Date: 03/18/13

340 Chapman St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Comfort Mechanical Inc.
Seller: RAM Construction LLC
Date: 03/18/13

106 Conway St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $141,000
Buyer: Darry C. Madden
Seller: Paul Ferrini
Date: 03/18/13

24 Linden Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Joshua S. Breitner
Seller: Gibson INT
Date: 03/15/13

54 Oak Hill Acres
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $202,000
Buyer: Terrence P. Monahan
Seller: US Bank NA
Date: 03/22/13

4 Spring Terrace
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: David A. Wemhoener
Seller: US Bank
Date: 03/21/13

44 Verde Dr.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Greenfield Coop Bank
Seller: Scott McCoy
Date: 03/15/13

MONTAGUE

41 Millers Falls Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Michelle L. Lefebvre
Seller: Elizebeth A. Prasol-Tyler
Date: 03/15/13

WARWICK

91 Hastings Heights Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: John W. Bradford
Seller: Michael J. Matilainen
Date: 03/14/13

95 Shepardson Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $132,822
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Patrick F. Warner
Date: 03/12/13

WHATELY

48 Claverack Road
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $193,670
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank
Seller: Michael S. Snyder
Date: 03/19/13

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

16 Belle St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Maryna A. Shalypina
Seller: David P. McDonough
Date: 03/18/13

279 Maynard St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $202,000
Buyer: Sean P. Burke
Seller: Torino, Barbara G. (Estate)
Date: 03/15/13

17 Stevenson Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Drew J. Smith
Seller: Alan R. Gates
Date: 03/20/13

33 Zacks Way
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Margaret A. McCarthy RET
Seller: T. Russo Construction Corp.
Date: 03/19/13

CHICOPEE

3 Elizabeth St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Norman P. Avey
Seller: Kenneth R. Riverin
Date: 03/22/13

63 Farmington St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $144,500
Buyer: Erick Vazquez
Seller: Doris B. Raney
Date: 03/13/13

155 Holyoke Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $253,000
Buyer: Regina L. Lecours
Seller: Karen R. Fontaine
Date: 03/22/13

25 Juliette St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $177,000
Buyer: James T. Griffin
Seller: Petro Boyko
Date: 03/15/13

20 Olivine St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Gabriel M. Liaigre
Seller: Juliette A. Guertin
Date: 03/22/13

23 Olivine St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Miriam A. Santiago
Seller: Andre Houle
Date: 03/15/13

68 State St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $125,500
Buyer: Pedro L. Olivo
Seller: Arthur Ladue
Date: 03/15/13

23 Sunset Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $188,900
Buyer: Trever J. Cardaropoli
Seller: Ashtons Acquisitions LLC
Date: 03/13/13

EAST LONGMEADOW

175 Braeburn Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: James M. Adcock
Seller: Roosevelt Hill LLC
Date: 03/18/13

55 John St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Neil J. Maloney
Seller: Norman Bolton
Date: 03/12/13

71 Wood Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $162,500
Buyer: Christina M. Fiore
Seller: Stone Financing LLC
Date: 03/22/13

HAMPDEN

134 Glendale Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Jamie L. Shepard
Seller: Richard C. Armida
Date: 03/22/13

283 Somers Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Craig J. Morel
Seller: Charles P. McCarthy
Date: 03/21/13

HOLLAND

130 Mashapaug Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Holland RT
Seller: David L. Hansen
Date: 03/12/13

154 Mashapaug Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: James H. Gagne
Seller: Richard E. Hoyt
Date: 03/14/13

HOLYOKE

355 Chestnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Shamika Santos
Seller: Holyoke Housing Authority
Date: 03/15/13

357 Chestnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Ana S. Perez
Seller: Holyoke Housing Authority
Date: 03/12/13

12 Crescent St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Barbieri Realty LLC
Seller: Stephen F. Bakos
Date: 03/22/13

284 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $143,700
Buyer: Betty Kaplowitz
Seller: Samantha J. Mjenzi
Date: 03/15/13

LONGMEADOW

62 Bliss Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Corinne Ewing
Seller: Robert M. Thomas
Date: 03/19/13

68 Fairhill Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $309,600
Buyer: Daniel F. O’Malley
Seller: Bank of America NA
Date: 03/12/13

621 Maple Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Gordon E. Deshaw
Seller: Tatyana Shvakhman
Date: 03/11/13

244 Overbrook Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $790,000
Buyer: Gregory S. Schneider
Seller: Denis V. Laflamme
Date: 03/12/13

450 Pinewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Leo Judge
Seller: Louis Durkin
Date: 03/11/13

7 Porter Lake Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $271,100
Buyer: Alison E. McDonough
Seller: Kenneth W. Moffett
Date: 03/12/13

Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Kenneth S. Ross
Seller: Mary L. Mehrtens
Date: 03/11/13

10 Wildwood Glenn
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $340,500
Buyer: Alesia H. Days
Seller: Robert J. Greeley
Date: 03/14/13

LUDLOW

145 Booth St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Henrique Baltazar
Seller: Antonio Fernandes
Date: 03/22/13

114 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Arlindo Valadares
Seller: Bernadette Bourbeau
Date: 03/22/13

Cislak Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Paul R. Dias
Seller: Andrew Tomaszewski
Date: 03/13/13

135 Fuller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Bruno A. Coelho
Seller: Tina M. Pellegrini
Date: 03/15/13

43 Manor Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Jeremy M. Laduke
Seller: Timothy E. Moriarty
Date: 03/18/13

33 Marion Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Jennifer L. Luszcz
Seller: Andrea D. Leite
Date: 03/18/13

266 Miller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $145,664
Buyer: Vantium Reo Capital Mark
Seller: James H. Houle
Date: 03/11/13

40 Minechoag Hts.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $253,500
Buyer: Domingos G. Barroso
Seller: Jose A. Aguiar
Date: 03/20/13

126 Nash Hill Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $229,600
Buyer: Leslaw G. Jasinski
Seller: Bruno A. Coelho
Date: 03/15/13

15 Philip St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $209,000
Buyer: Michael E. Pietras
Seller: Jeffrey S. Pietras
Date: 03/12/13

MONSON

53 Bunyan Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $402,000
Buyer: Richard C. Armida
Seller: Roger W. Barnes
Date: 03/22/13

17 Crest Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Laurent R. McDonald
Seller: Michael A. Foster
Date: 03/22/13

32 Zuell Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Robert L. Carlson
Seller: Wini C. Findon
Date: 03/20/13

PALMER

119 North St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Michael V. Critelli
Seller: Jeffrey A. Sansoucy
Date: 03/15/13

SOUTHWICK

1 Brookview Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: William H. Berthiaume
Seller: Todd M. Wilson
Date: 03/15/13

11 Maple St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Brittany N. Castagna
Seller: Revampit LLC
Date: 03/15/13

68 Mort Vining Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Terrence J. Welch
Seller: Terrence J. Welch
Date: 03/14/13

SPRINGFIELD

252 Corcoran Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $148,400
Buyer: Terrance O’Connell
Seller: Christopher G. Valiquette
Date: 03/11/13

99 Dewitt St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Claudia S. Ribeiro
Seller: Glenn M. Spadoni
Date: 03/14/13

267 Edendale St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $123,000
Buyer: Amy F. Broderick
Seller: Stephen B. Rose
Date: 03/15/13

46 Gates Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Kyle Chase
Seller: Patricia H. Clancey
Date: 03/15/13

57 Gilbert Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Philip S. Cruz
Seller: Elaine C. Graham
Date: 03/18/13

11 Jefferson Ave.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $132,500
Buyer: Maria A. Colon
Seller: North End Housing Initiative Inc
Date: 03/18/13

14 Jennings St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Deyanira M. Garcia
Seller: Kenneth Fitzgibbon
Date: 03/12/13

59 Laurence St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $173,936
Buyer: TD Bank NA
Seller: James J. Marrin
Date: 03/14/13

188 Mallowhill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Orlando S. Rosado
Seller: Natalie S. Thomas
Date: 03/13/13

28 Methuen St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $134,000
Buyer: Nelson D. Otero
Seller: James W. Fiore
Date: 03/12/13

9 Montcalm St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: KAC Props. LLC
Seller: Shu Cheng
Date: 03/22/13

308 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Rafael Vargas
Seller: Marth E. LLC
Date: 03/21/13

41 Portulaca Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Brian Wood
Seller: Ricardo Gomez
Date: 03/15/13

58 Senator St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: David Deshais
Seller: Deborah M. Tracy
Date: 03/21/13

5 Squire Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $186,000
Buyer: Luis A. Gonzalez
Seller: Douglas D. Smith
Date: 03/18/13

258 Stapleton Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Enyoc Inv. Props. LLC
Seller: Benjamin M. Coyle
Date: 03/15/13

33 Thorndyke St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $122,000
Buyer: Robert J. Tudryn
Seller: Matthew H. Ferri
Date: 03/11/13

13 Treetop Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $227,059
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank
Seller: Jeannette Cortes
Date: 03/14/13

1241 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Richard J. Mack
Seller: Luis N. Costa
Date: 03/22/13

WEST Springfield

95 Birnie Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Christopher W. Welch
Seller: Walter Zabik
Date: 03/14/13

297 Morgan Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank NA
Seller: Barbara A. Boothe
Date: 03/11/13

42 Oakland St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Gary P. Moakler
Date: 03/15/13

764 Riverdale St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: John Huang
Seller: Barcomb Trowbridge 6714
Date: 03/15/13

72 Summit St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Jonathan Rosado
Seller: Sergey Savonin
Date: 03/14/13

WESTFIELD

43 Cross St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $175,250
Buyer: Kostyantyn Kozhushok
Seller: Mary A. Chamberland
Date: 03/15/13

40 Maple Terrace
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $153,000
Buyer: Ashley R. Diduk
Seller: Susan E. Hentnick
Date: 03/11/13

9 Palma Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $270,500
Buyer: Lisa M. Wirth
Seller: Tina G. Lemire
Date: 03/15/13

168 Prospect St., Ext.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $173,703
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Walter F. Osowski
Date: 03/12/13

54 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: David C. Fazzino
Seller: Anatoliy Kulyak
Date: 03/22/13

54 Otis St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $124,000
Buyer: Pamela A. Bain
Seller: Askins, Michael (Estate)
Date: 03/18/13

94 Sandy Hill Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: Jacqueline M. Ayr
Seller: Jeffrey S. White
Date: 03/14/13

120 West Silver St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $269,925
Buyer: Elizabeth A. Butcher
Seller: Stephen C. Strebel
Date: 03/21/13

Whitaker Road #3
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Keith M. Richards
Seller: Eric F. Laizer
Date: 03/12/13

57 Woodcliff Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Jeffrey S. White
Seller: William D. Murray
Date: 03/14/13

WILBRAHAM

36 Burleigh Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $228,000
Buyer: Jon A. Rich
Seller: Susan M. Barnes
Date: 03/22/13

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

38 Lessey St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $348,000
Buyer: Leslie Dubinsky
Seller: Timothy B. Soules
Date: 03/11/13

36 Morgan Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $359,900
Buyer: E. S. Hopton
Seller: Servicenet Inc.
Date: 03/12/13

203 Rolling Ridge Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Daiheng Ni
Seller: Leonard Strauss
Date: 03/18/13

BELCHERTOWN

234 Barton Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Bryan F. Hauschild
Seller: Dahila Dev. Ltd
Date: 03/19/13

111 Daniel Shays Hwy.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Beverly M. Jackson
Seller: Summer Hill Estates Development LLC
Date: 03/19/13

396 Rockrimmon St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $229,000
Buyer: Lindsay Lacoille
Seller: Andrew J. Deren
Date: 03/15/13

151 Sargent St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $174,900
Buyer: Christopher D. Carlson
Seller: Jesse A. Ritter
Date: 03/15/13
40 South Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $307,000
Buyer: Kenneth H. Pincince
Seller: Lou A. Sirois
Date: 03/20/13

CHESTERFIELD

17 Farmhouse Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $254,000
Buyer: Elizabeth A. Slona
Seller: Joan E. Slowick
Date: 03/15/13

270 Main Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Sherry D. Quimet
Seller: Michael L. Welch
Date: 03/19/13

EASTHAMPTON

25 Brook St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Jesse S. Harrison
Seller: Robert B. Riggs
Date: 03/15/13

25 Meadowbrook Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $218,750
Buyer: Shane M. Calabrese
Seller: Alice P. Linnell
Date: 03/15/13

49 Ridgewood Terrace
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Laura F. Arbeitman
Seller: Steven Hawley
Date: 03/22/13

GOSHEN

197 South Chesterfield Road
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Mary E. Witt
Seller: Thomas J. Fitzell
Date: 03/22/13

GRANBY

164 West St.
Granby, MA 01033
Buyer: Stephen F. Marion
Seller: Mitchell, Ruth E. (Estate)
Date: 03/11/13

HADLEY

70 Chmura Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $562,500
Buyer: Bhavnaben S. Parmar
Seller: Laxman Parmar
Date: 03/11/13

325 Rocky Hill Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: 325 Rocky Hill LLC
Seller: James Aronson
Date: 03/22/13

117 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Dennis J. Hukowicz
Seller: Edward J. Hukowicz
Date: 03/21/13

HATFIELD

151 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Jeffrey G. Zgrodnik
Seller: Sadie H. Kochan
Date: 03/12/13

NORTHAMPTON

69 Brookwood Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $193,800
Buyer: Ronald K. Bachang
Seller: Tina Gagne
Date: 03/20/13

90 Haydenville Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $396,000
Buyer: SSTT LLC
Seller: Pierre R. Brisson
Date: 03/20/13

203 King St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,998,176
Buyer: G&G Real Estate Inv. LLC
Seller: Taco Bell of America LLC
Date: 03/15/13

23 Lilly St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: May C. Chan
Seller: H. G. Labrage
Date: 03/15/13

57 Longview Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Robert M. Kuzmeski
Seller: Kuzmeski IRT
Date: 03/21/13

28 Maple Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Mark A. Sayre
Seller: Louise Farrelly
Date: 03/22/13

219 North Main St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $136,140
Buyer: Jonna Sciacca
Seller: Florence Savings Bank
Date: 03/20/13

18 Powell St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: William A. Hansen
Seller: Dale W. Aldrich
Date: 03/15/13

SOUTH HADLEY

7 Joan St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $186,500
Buyer: Claude D. Lambert
Seller: Jane H. Bubnis
Date: 03/11/13

31 Lincoln Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Michael C. Cote
Seller: Jeffrey W. Jenks
Date: 03/18/13

32 Lorraine Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $168,200
Buyer: Kevin M. Quesnel
Seller: Michaeline S. Davidson
Date: 03/15/13

3 Pleasant St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: Sheila D. Pennell
Seller: Pleasant St. South Hadley NT
Date: 03/22/13

5 Skinner Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Terry W. Monkaba
Seller: Mary J. Kocot
Date: 03/15/13

SOUTHAMPTON

104 Gunn Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: William A. Tormey
Seller: James F. Boyle
Date: 03/15/13

8 Jonathan Judd Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Ashton Acquisitions LLC
Seller: Barry J. Sullivan
Date: 03/22/13

81 Russellville Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Jason T. Millay
Seller: Ann M. Sarafin
Date: 03/15/13

5 Sara Lane
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Pawel J. Robak
Seller: Edward H. Gwinner
Date: 03/15/13

117 White Loaf Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Olla N. Al-Shalchi
Seller: Czelusniak Custom Homes
Date: 03/15/13

WARE

290 Osborne Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $205,900
Buyer: Jennifer L. Bernier
Seller: Richard B. Rose
Date: 03/21/13

WILLIAMSBURG

18 Fort Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01039
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Michael M. Ban
Seller: Carl W. Rohrberg
Date: 03/22/13

People On the Move

Departments People on the Move

Joseph Kulig

United Bank announced that Joseph Kulig has joined the bank as Vice President of Commercial Lending in the Springfield Region. Kulig has more than 20 years of commercial banking experience, most recently as relationship manager with TDBank in Springfield. Previously, he served as a commercial loan review officer with SIS Bank in Springfield following six years as principle bank examiner with the Massachusetts Division of Banks in Boston. He holds an MBA from Western New England University, and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.Kulig has been an active member of the community serving on the board of Rebuilding Together Springfield since 1997 and the West Springfield Youth Soccer Club since 2012. He has coached youth baseball, soccer, and basketball in West Springfield.
•••••
American International College announced the following promotions:

April Kearse

Esta Sobey

Nick Young

Dina Ditmar

Dahimeli Mercado

Danielle Wisniowski

• April Kearse, was named Associate Dean for Undergraduate Academic Advising. Prior to this new role, Kearse served as Director of Student Support Services (ACE Program) and Assistant Director of Multicultural Admissions. She has a master’s degree in Educational Psychology, and will graduate from AIC with her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership in May 2014,
• Esta Sobey, was named Associate Dean of the AIC Education Department. Previously, she served as chair of the department, Director of Field Experiences, and Director of Middle/Secondary Education. She earned bachelor’s degree from SUNY Stony Brook and two graduate degrees from Columbia University,
• Nick Young was named Dean of Low Residency Programs. He previously served as associated dean of the Ed.D. program at AIC. Young received his bachelor’s degree from Austin Peay State University, an MBA from Western New England University, an Ed.D. from AIC, and a Ph.D. from Union Institute and University. Young currently serves as superintendent of schools in South Hadley,
• Dina Ditmar was promoted to Learning Resource Center and Simulation Faculty Coordinator. Ditmar started at AIC in 2005, serving as an adjunct clinical faculty member, and was named Learning Lab Coordinator in the fall of 2010. She received her BSN at Elms College and her MSN at AIC,
• Dahimeli Mercado was named Student Accounts Analyst. A graduate of AIC, Mercado previously served as a Student Accounts Representative. She earned her bachelor’s degree at AIC and is currently enrolled in the MSAT program at AIC; and
• Danielle Wisniowski was promoted to Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions. Previously an admissions counselor at AIC, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Newbury College and a juris doctorate from WNEU School of Law.
•••••
Monson Savings Bank announced the following:

Christina Bordeau

Claire Ladue

• Christina Bordeau has been named Branch Manager for the bank’s Hampden branch. She brings more than 15 years of retail banking experience to Monson Savings, having held previous management positions at Citizens Bank and Bank of America.
• Clare Ladue has named branch manager of the Ware branch, scheduled to open this spring. Previously, she managed the Hampden location.
•••••

John Shea

The Springfield office of Boston-based Morrison Mahoney LLP announced that Attorney John Shea had joined the staff. Shea’s concentration in estate planning, wills, durable powers of attorney, health care proxies, revocable and irrevocable trusts, and related services, will be added to the firm’s trial and litigation and medical malpractice defense services. Shea was previously in private practice concentrating in all areas of estate planning and administration as well as business and real estate transactions, and has advised clients in the formation of small, family-owned and franchise businesses. Shea holds a Master of Laws with a concentration in estate planning and elder law, from the Western New England University School of Law, a Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School in Boston, a Master of Science in labor studies from UMass Amherst, and a Bachelor of Arts in government from Connecticut College.
•••••

Dr. Ronald Burkman, Jr

Dr. Ronald Burkman, Jr., a board certified physician in obstetrics and gynecology with Baystate Wesson Women’s Group Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baystate Medical Center, was recently named by more than 1,100 Hampden District Medical Society peers as the district’s 2013 Community Clinician of the Year. The award was established in 1998 by the Massachusetts Medical Society to recognize a physician from each of the Society’s 20 district medical societies who has made significant contributions to patients and the community and who stands out as a leading advocate and caregiver. From 1995 to 2007, he was chairman of the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Baystate Medical Center. Since 1995, he has been a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. Long active in the Massachusetts Medical Society, Burkman has served on its committees on professional liability, maternal and perinatal welfare, and managed care. The award will be presented at the district society’s annual meeting April 30 at the Delaney House in Holyoke.

Meet Our Judges

40 Under 40

The Seventh Annual 40 Under Forty Competition

This year’s nominations were scored by a panel of five judges, who accepted the daunting challenge of reviewing more than 100 nominations and scoring individuals based on several factors, ranging from achievements in business to work within the community. BusinessWest would like to thank these outstanding members of the Western Mass. business community for volunteering their time to the seventh annual 40 Under Forty competition. They are:

Jeffrey Fialky

• Jeffrey Fialky, a member of the 40 Under Forty class of 2008 and a shareholder of the regional law firm Bacon Wilson, P.C., and member of the firm’s corporate, commercial, and municipal departments, where he specializes in all aspects of corporate and business law, banking, commercial real estate, and sophisticated commercial transactions. He joined the firm in 2006 after nearly a decade of living in Eastern Mass., where he held senior commercial attorney positions within some of the country’s most prominent publicly traded telecommunications and cable television companies. He previously served as an assistant district attorney in Hampden County.

Fialky is also active in the community, having served on a number of nonprofit and economic-development-related organizations. They include the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, Springfield Museums, the United Way of Pioneer Valley, the Jewish Federation of Pioneer Valley, the Springfield Technical Community College Scibelli Enterprise Center Advisory Board, the Alden Credit Union board of directors, the Community Foundation, the American Cancer Society, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, Leadership Pioneer Valley, OnBoard, the YMCA of Greater Springfield, the Mason Wright Foundation, the EDC Tourism Development Committee; and the American Red Cross Pioneer Valley Chapter.

Brendon Hutchins

• Brendon Hutchins, CFP, a member of the 40 Under Forty class of 2012, and senior vice president of Account Management for St. Germain Investment Management. Prior to joing the firm in 2003, he was vice president and financial advisor for the FleetBoston Financial Corp. Private Clients Group in Springfield. His prior experience includes eight years with Fidelity Investments as a vice president in the retirement division, with responsibilities across multiple locations during his tenure there.

In addition to being a certified financial planner, Hutchins holds NASD series 7 and 65 licenses for securities representation and investment-advisor services. He currently serves on the board of directors for the New England office of the March of Dimes, the Greater Springfield YMCA, and the Basketball Hall of Fame, and has also served on the board for the Springfield School Volunteers.

Mark O’Connell

• Mark O’Connell, president and chief executive officer of Wolf & Co., providing audit and financial reporting services to both privately held and publicly traded financial institutions and holding companies across New England, including community banks and mortgage banking institutions. In his current capacity, he is responsible for the strategic direction of the firm, while also providing audit and advisory services to financial institutions. His experience also includes consultation on audit and accounting issues related to mergers and acquisitions and with respect to debt and security offerings filed with the Federal Home Loan Bank Board, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

O’Connell has been involved with a number of industry and nonprofit organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Massachusetts and Connecticut Societies of Certified Public Accountants, and the Children’s Study Home in Springfield. In 2010, he won the Human Services Forum Board Member Award.

Myra Smith

• Myra Smith, vice president of Human Resources and Multicultural Affairs at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). Joining the college in 1978, Smith has helped transform the STCC community into one of inclusiveness that celebrates cultural diversity. Among her many accomplishments is the creation of the STCC Diversity Council and its event series, which brings national and international speakers and artists to the campus. Smith also was responsible for the creation of the STCC “Think Tank” series, which brings community leaders together to assist with the retention and graduation rate of young men of color.

Smith is also active in the community, serving on many local boards, including People’sBank, the National Conference for Community Justice of Western Mass., and the STCC Foundation. Smith is a founding trustee of the Martin Luther King Charter School of Excellence and a trustee for the Non-Unit Health and Welfare Trust Fund for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Smith was recognized in 2007 by Unity First with a Women of Leadership Award, and received a Women of Vision Award from the Elms College Step Forward Program in 2005.

Jeff Sullivan

• Jeff Sullivan, executive vice president and chief operating officer of United Bank. In that capacity, which he assumed Jan. 1, Sullivan is responsible for the bank’s retail deposit and operations division, advancements in technology and electronic banking, and franchise expansion efforts. In addition, he also oversees the Information Systems and Facilities Departments and the United Wealth Management Group, and is also responsible for the company’s enterprise risk management program. He previously served the bank as executive vice president and chief lending officer and, prior to arriving at United, served in commercial-lending capacities for the Bank of Western Mass. and BayBank.

Sullivan has been involved with a number of area nonprofit and economic-development-related organizations, including DevelopSpringfield, Better Homes Inc., Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services, Briana Fund for Children with Physical Disabilities, OnBoard, the Pioneer Valley Plan for Progress, the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, and the Economic Development Council of Western Mass.

Timothy Allen

Principal, South End Middle School, age 34

Tim Allen says he has a very basic approach to education and the students he serves.
“I feel that all students need to be valued,” said the man given the reins at Springfield’s new South End Middle School, which opened its doors in 2011. “And all students can achieve if they’re given the right environment in school, and if they’re given the tools they need to succeed.”
And he takes that same basic approach with the teachers in the classrooms.
“I believe in creating a family environment where people can work collaboratively,” Allen explained. “I believe in sharing leadership as much as possible, and I believe that teachers need to be supported, since what they’re doing is the most important thing in the building.”
To say that this philosophy is generating results would be a huge understatement. Indeed, the 300 students at the school — more than a third of whom are English Language Learners, or ELL — showed more improvement on the English portion of the MCAS tests in the school’s first year than any of the other six neighborhood middle schools in Springfield.
Meanwhile, 95% of the teachers who generated those results stayed at their positions for the 2012-13 school year, bucking a trend for extremely high turnover rates within urban schools.
Allen’s immediate goal is to continually improve on those results, a reflection of his habit of setting the bar high after he made that intriguing and often-difficult career decision to move from the classroom to the administrative wing in 2007.
“I like the challenge of leadership — I like leading adults,” he said in explaining that choice. “And I just felt that I could give a lot back by trying to help an entire school improve, as opposed to just one classroom; I really like that challenge.”
And while taking it on, he’s finding other ways to give back, especially through his work with Big Brothers Big Sisters. He’s been mentoring the same Springfield youth for eight years now, and says the relationship has been mutually beneficial.
“It’s been a real bright spot in my life,” he said. “He’s a very bright young man, and he’s come a long way, and I think the relationship has influenced both lives in a very positive way.”

— George O’Brien

Meaghan Arena

Associate Dean, Division of Graduate and Continuing Education, Westfield State University, age 33

Meaghan Arena’s career has gone to the dogs. And plenty of other places.
“I enjoy coming here every day,” Arena said of her role developing a host of Westfield State University’s continuing-education initiatives, many of them involving young people (and, occasionally, canines; more on that later). “I work with a really great staff, and no day is the same. I’ve been fortunate to be able to have a job that’s this flexible.”
Arena oversees a staff of 11, as well as seasonal and temporary employees, in maintaining programs such as College for Kids, a summer outreach for children ages 5-16, and Teen-U, a residential summer program for high-school students.
“In the kids’ program, they come to campus and take courses that are fun, but also learning-oriented,” she said. “There might be classes like Lego Engineering or Forensics Fun — and they are fun, of course, but they also have a science component to them.
“Teen U is similar, but for older students; they actually live on campus,” she said before listing a few of the offerings in that program. “This year, we’re running Westfield CSI, which is similar to Forensics Fun but more involved, teaching students about policing, fingerprints, and crime-scene investigation.” Other classes delve into subjects ranging from health to music.
“Meaghan helps serve the community by getting children and teenagers involved in college at an early age,” wrote Kelly Koch, a local attorney and former 40 Under Forty honoree, who nominated Arena. “She has taught them that college is within their reach and that it should be attainable for everyone.”
But Arena has other passions as well, including her work volunteering for the Dakin Pioneer Valley Animal Shelter; last year, she even involved Dakin staff and animals in College for Kids to teach children about kindness to animals.
“My master’s degree is in Humane Education, so animals and the environment have been part of my life for a long time. When I started working at the college, it was a wonderful opportunity to educate children about animals and about appropriate behavior with animals — again, in a fun way,” she said. “There’s a lot of flexibility here to do the things that mean something to you.”

— Joseph Bednar

Jeremy Casey

Assistant Vice President and Commercial Service Officer, Westfield Bank, age 28

Those who nominated Jeremy Casey for the 40 Under Forty Class of 2013 used a number of descriptive words and phrases to chronicle his career accomplishments and work within the community.
One said he was the “face of Westfield Bank” at many events and within many organizations, such as the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield and the Springfield Rotary Club. Another said he had “a passion for civic leadership.”
But the word that came up most often was ‘innovative,’ and it was used in reference to everything from his work to launch an ultimate Frisbee league at Westfield State University while he was a student there, to innovative fund-raising ideas to benefit the Rotary Club, to his efforts to co-lead the Young Professionals Cup charity dodgeball tournament.
That competition, which started with 24 teams in 2011, has already grown to 44, drawing squads from across New England, while raising more than $10,000 for the YMCA of Greater Springfield and Junior Achievement.
Meanwhile, his career in banking has followed a similar trajectory. He started as a teller and has been promoted several times, most recently to assistant vice president. In that role, he is responsible for selling and servicing the bank’s cash-management products and growing the commercial-deposit customer base.
Casey was one of 12 professionals recently chosen for admission into the Business Leadership Mastery Alliance program, a results-focused initiative for executives and entrepreneurs committed to purposeful wealth-building endeavors in business, community, and life.
When asked about his definition of success and how to gauge that term, his answer was predictable given what others say about him.
“I don’t have a measurement for success,” he told BusinessWest. “It’s not money … it’s through my achievements that I want to help other people, and that really comes down to making connections.”
At 28, the connections he’s made to date, and the promise for more to come, have people taxing their vocabularies to describe what kind of leader Casey is.

— Elizabeth Taras

Kam Capoccia

Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Western New England University College of Pharmacy, age 39

Kam Capoccia says she has two passions, teaching and patient care — activities that one what might not associate with someone who is a pharmacist by trade. But Capoccia, by bringing her passions front and center in an intriguing mix of career endeavors, is changing some attitudes about those in her profession.
She has a business card from Western New England University identifying her as a clinical associate professor and residency program director for the Department of Pharmacy Practice. Meanwhile, she is the director (and the heart and soul) of the Consultation and Wellness Center at the Big Y on Cooley Street in Springfield, a unique program created in a partnership between the school and the corporation.
In both settings, she gets to teach. At WNEU, she’s educating students about everything from conducting blood-pressure screenings to how to listen to a heart. And at the consultation and wellness center, she’s educating patients about such matters as monitoring their blood sugar, controlling hypertension, and achieving weight loss.
And there are ample rewards from both endeavors. “I enjoy the interaction with learners — I love watching the lightbulbs go on,” she said of her work with WNEU students as they assimilate the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in that challenging profession. At the clinic, meanwhile, she has helped one patient lose more than 40 pounds over the past year or so and assisted countless others with a host of issues, especially Type 2 diabetes.
“I love going to work every day — the clinic is what really drives me,” she told BusinessWest, noting that the facility is open three days a week. “With the patients, the numbers continue to increase, and we’re seeing some great results.”
Her many career pursuits — she also takes shifts in a Walgreens pharmacy on a per-diem basis — consume much of her time, but she also focuses on achieving work/life balance, making time for her family and especially her three children, Jacob, Marissa, and Jack.
The creators of the Big Y center describe it as a program featuring “the pharmacist as educator.” That’s a very accurate depiction, and one that brings Capoccia’s twin passions clearly into focus.

— George O’Brien

Erin Couture

Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer, Florence Savings Bank, age 34

Erin Couture has many accomplishments and examples of civic leadership on her résumé — everything from her large and diverse commercial-loan portfolio at Florence Savings Bank to the $10,000 she raised in 2012 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through the Team in Training program.
The contribution you don’t see on her résumé, though, was by far the most significant.
Indeed, in early 2012, she became a bone-marrow donor for her sister, who was diagnosed with leukemia that is still in remission one year later. Erin is one of six siblings, but the one deemed to be a perfect match. And today, her efforts to get more people in the registry for bone-marrow donations is just one of the many things vying for — and winning — some of her time.
First and foremost is her family, including her husband, Darren, and sons Brandon and Gabriel. Then, there’s that commercial-lending portfolio and all that goes into maintaining and growing it. And as she described that work, she said it doesn’t come down to crunching numbers — although that’s certainly part of it — but understanding people and working with and for them.
“Every loan, every business owner is different — they have specific needs, goals, and challenges,” said Couture, adding that she manages loans ranging from $10,000 to $7 million, in sectors from manufacturing to retail. “And this work is about much more than just giving someone a loan; it’s about helping them succeed in business, and that’s the part I find most rewarding.”
Then there’s her work within the community, which ranges from involvement with the Northampton Chamber of Commerce, which she serves on its finance committee, to the Big Brothers Big Sisters advisory board, for which she is vice president; from membership in the area young-professional societies to teaching financial literacy to high-school students, to running half-marathons to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (she ran her first not long ago, and is now gearing up for her fourth).
She’s also involved in the Daffodil Fun Run, a fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society that in three short years has grown to more than 700 runners, just another example of how helping others is a priority for Couture — right down to the bone.

— George O’Brien

Geoffrey Croteau

Financial Advisor and Managing Associate Sales Manager, MassMutual Charter Oak Insurance and Financial Services, age 33

Like many 40 Under Forty honorees, Geoff Croteau found success in a far different field than he studied in college — in his case, graphic design. “I couldn’t find a career in that field to save my life,” he said with a laugh.
So, about a decade ago, he switched gears and became a real-estate agent in Florida, eventually moving up to partner of the firm and recruiting and managing more than 80 agents. But in 2008, he moved back to his hometown of Chicopee and took a job soon after with Charter Oak.
Today, as a managing associate sales manager, he serves as a role model and mentor to new financial-services professionals — in effect, recruiting, training, and developing new agents while running a successful financial-services business of his own.
It makes for a diverse career with plenty of personal interaction. “I would consider myself a people person; all I do all day is talk to people and help people plan for their future. It’s rewarding. I help parents plan for their kids’ education, I help people plan to be able to retire, and I help protect families with life insurance.”
Croteau brings the same passion to his community involvement, notably as president of the Beavers Club, a nonprofit French businessmen’s organization that donates time, money, and resources to projects throughout Western Mass; recent beneficiaries include Sunshine Village, Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen, Holyoke Children’s Museum, the Volleyball Hall of Fame, Kane’s Krusade, Providence Ministries, and Relay for Life. “We have a lot of fun doing what we call work projects,” he said.
In addition, he’s vice president of the Holyoke Community College Alumni Assoc., raising scholarship money and helping students gain work experience through internships, and he also gives time and energy to the Marine Corps League, a service organization that helps disabled veterans and widows, raises scholarship money for veterans’ children, spends time with veterans at the Holyoke Soldiers Home, and helps Toys for Tots collect gifts for the less fortunate at Christmas. “I’m very proud of being a Marine, and I’m passionate about that,” he said.
That’s an impressive palette of work for someone who decided graphic arts wasn’t in the grand design.

— Joseph Bednar

Tommy Cosenzi

Co-owner, TommyCar Auto Group, age 28

Tommy Cosenzi always knew he would follow in his father’s footsteps. But when Tom E. Cosenzi died from brain cancer in 2009 at age 52, Tommy and his sister found themselves at the helm of their father’s company long before it was expected.
“He worked extraordinarily hard to build everything we had, and I knew how important it was to him,” said Cosenzi. “So it was extremely important to me to continue his work as a lasting legacy to him.”
Since that time, he and his sister, Carla (a 40 Under Forty winner in 2012), have driven the company down new roads and taken their father’s charitable bent in new directions. “He made a huge impact on my life and is behind everything I do,” Tommy said.
He is in charge of the company’s marketing and played a strong role in the success of Northampton Volkswagen, a new dealership for the auto group.
He also co-founded the Thomas E. Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament, which has raised more than $304,200 to date. The money is given to the late Cosenzi’s neuro-oncologist at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute to conduct research on brain cancer.
“We saw first-hand what an awful disease it is and that researchers really needed help,” Cosenzi said, adding that there are not enough good treatments for the disease. “People who deal with cancer have a special place in my heart because I know what they are battling.”
Recently, he and Carla established the Tom Cosenzi Scholarship Fund for students who plan to attend college, and he reads every application and helps to assess each student’s level of need, qualifications, and goals.
TommyCar also takes part in the Cruising for Miracles program, which benefits Baystate Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network. “We thought it was a really good cause,” he said.
In addition, the company supports a host of other organizations, including the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life, the Jimmy Fund, the Ronald McDonald House, and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, to name just a few.
Cosenzi’s other volunteer efforts include working with the National Automobile Dealer Assoc. to mentor the next generation of auto dealers — yet another way he’s carrying on a worthwhile legacy.
— Kathleen Mitchell

Melyssa Brown

Manager, Audit and Accounting Division, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., age 31

Growing up, Melyssa Brown spent a portion of many summers attending a camp operated by Girls Inc. in Pittsfield.
There, she said she learned to swim and eventually compete in that sport, participate in a number of athletic and crafts-related activities, and grow personally from simply “hanging out with the girls.”
The many positive experiences from those summers in the Berkshires comprised one of the myriad motivating factors for her current involvement with Girls Inc. of Holyoke. She’s a board member, treasurer, and active fund-raiser, for example, but also one of the prime movers with an ambitious new initiative called Eureka.
As participants in the program, girls ages 12-15 spend four weeks each summer on a college campus to learn about math, science, computers, sports, and both personal and career development.
“We get everyone on board — the girl signs up, and the family signs up,” she explained. “Everyone is committed. We want to see the girls make it through the entire process; we want them to learn about the many career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, and the education they will need to enter those fields.”
Her role with Girls Inc. is just part of Brown’s work within the community; she also donates time and energy to mentorship programs at both Elms College and Westfield State University, as well as Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together, Link to Libraries, and the Springfield Boys and Girls Club.
These efforts are just a few of many factors that have made her a member of the 40 Under Forty Class of 2013. Professionally, she is now the youngest manager in the Audit & Accounting (A&A) Division at Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., where she helps a broad range of clients while also serving as a mentor to many younger members of the A&A team.
In addition to her client-service responsibilities, she has been integral in the firm’s leadership and staff-development intitiative, facilitating firm-wide training based on Steven Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People and Bruce Tulgen’s It’s Okay to Be the Boss.
Whether it’s as a Girls Inc. alumna or one of the leaders at MBK, Brown has become an effective role model — in every sense of that phrase.

— George O’Brien

William Davila

Division Director, Outpatient Services Division, Gandara Center, age 39

William Davila is passionate about providing families in Springfield’s North End with the support and services they need.
“I tell my staff that it’s really personal for me to work here because I was born in the hospital about two miles away and grew up in the projects about a half-mile away. I understand this community and want to help people looking to improve themselves who are seeking a better way of life,” he said.
To that end, the father of two, who leads a staff of more than 70 employees at Gandara Center’s two sites in Springfield, makes sure everyone who calls or walks through the door gets immediate help. “People often have a moment of clarity in which they decide to seek help. But if they don’t get it right away, their motivation decreases,” he said. “And in inner cities, if families don’t get the services they need, it has a spillover effect that prevents parents from providing loving homes for their children.”
He has increased client access to mental-health services at Gandara by more than 20% in the past two years, brought services to more than a dozen locations throughout the community, consistently improved Gandara’s financial performance, and increased the number of staff members who can meet the community’s linguistic and cultural needs.
Family is critical to Davila, who recently earned his doctorate of Education from the University of Hartford, is an adjunct professor of Social Work at Springfield College, and serves on the advisory board of the Springfield College School of Social Work, as well as the boards of the Sisters of Providence Health System Foundation and Partners for a Healthier Community.
His history of civic involvement includes many other organizations and began when he was about age 12 and joined a peer-education program that did advocacy work in Springfield Public Schools.
“I always knew I would work in social services,” he said, adding that he believes education is critical to success in life and has afforded him the opportunity to “give back to my community and make a difference.”

— Kathleen Mitchell

Elizabeth Beaudry

Senior Commercial Credit Analyst and Information Technology Administrator, NUVO Bank & Trust Co., age 30

Liz Beaudry has no fear of starting something new, and she’s been on the ground floor of quite a few new endeavors, in both the professional and personal arenas. “I love learning, and I have no fear of failing because there is always something to learn from it.”
In her professional life, Beaudry was on the ground floor for the 2008 launch of the only state-chartered bank in the Commonwealth, NUVO Bank & Trust Co. Originally opening temporary doors in Monarch Place during the completion of the institution’s current location in Tower Square, the initial small team was doing business from day one.
“We’d have people stop by with cash to deposit, and we didn’t even have a cash drawer yet,” she recalled. Starting with an initial $13 million in assets, the bank is now at more than $105 million.
Meanwhile, she earned her MBA from Bay Path College in 2010. After that, not content to sit back and enjoy some free time to plan her summer wedding, she saw her cousin’s activity in the World Adult Kickball Assoc. and thought it might be fun to have that type of adult recreation in the Western Mass. area. With a bit of research, she launched her own Holyoke kickball league under the Massachusetts Sports and Social Club banner.
Initially, Beaudry had no idea if anyone would be interested, but through e-mail invites, almost 100 people of all ages — many of whom hadn’t played since grade school — showed up to play the first night. The huge success of that league gave way to other sports, including dodgeball, indoor volleyball, and Wiffle ball, which keeps her busy many weekday evenings as a field advisor for the various leagues.
When not analyzing credit requests and overseeing the bank’s information technology, she’s offered her time and talent to the Down Syndrome Resource Group of Western Mass., the Buddy Walk, and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke.
And chances are good that Beaudry will be starting something new soon. “I never shut the door on opportunity.”

— Elizabeth Taras

Jason Barroso

Project Environmental Scientist, Tighe & Bond, age 36

Jason Barroso went to UMass Amherst to study political science, but decided around his junior year that he didn’t really like politics that much.
So he switched gears and wound up earning a double major in Political Science and Earth Science, and he has built a successful career around the latter.
After a number of positions at other companies, Barroso joined Tighe & Bond in 2006. As a project environmental scientist, he provides services to a mix of clients, including municipalities, real-estate-development professionals, industrial corporations, and utility providers.
It’s a diverse job. For one thing, Barroso serves as Tighe & Bond’s point person for its demolition consulting and design business, a role he finds gratifying. “I like to drive by a site being redeveloped and know I had a part in making that redevelopment possible,” he said. “As cheesy as it may sound, it’s nice to see something growing out of something that was defunct.”
Meanwhile, in his role as emergency response coordinator for the firm, he directs assessment and response to transformer oil spills for major power utility providers throughout the region. There are usually about 30 of those events per year, but between June and October 2011 — a five-month period bookended by the spring tornadoes and the pre-Halloween snowstorm, not to mention a tropical storm in August — he dealt with 147 spills.
“That was pretty taxing on our folks,” he recalled. “It was quite a feat to get all that done along with our regular workload, but we made it through.”
And about his dislike for politics? Well, “I got bit by the political bug again,” he said with a laugh, and took a seat on the Ludlow Conservation Commission, acting as chairman for two years, then chaired the town’s Master Plan Committee. “Both professionally and personally, that just felt like a natural fit for me.”
But he wasn’t done. After the housing market collapsed and the Great Recession began, Barroso sought and won a seat on the Board of Selectmen, desiring to implement strategies aimed at minimizing property-tax increases and cuts to public services; he later chaired that board, too.
“It’s certainly given me a lot of perspective on the challenges of running a municipality, especially in this economic climate,” he said. “It’s been an amazing experience.”

— Joseph Bednar

Adrian Bailey Dion

Chief Operating Officer, Harold Grinspoon Foundation, age 31

‘Business savvy’ and ‘entrepreneurial skills’ are phrases that some might not associate with the management of a nonprofit. But Harold Grinspoon — one of the region’s most successful business leaders, a true entrepreneur, and a philanthropist — certainly knows better.
And that’s why he hired Adrian Bailey Dion to help lead the foundation that bears his name and become “a partner in my philanthropic work.” In his letter nominating Bailey Dion for the 40 Under Forty Class of 2013, Grinspoon had high praise for her entrepreneurial approach to operating and growing PJ Library, one of the foundation’s signature programs, which supports literacy and values development in children ages 1-8 through the purchase and delivery of age-appropriate Jewish books.
“When it started in 2006, it was my hope to grow the program and send Jewish books to 5,000 families in five years,” he wrote. “With Adrian on board in 2008, she was able to strategically think through the operations side of these growth goals. She helped build this program, which now has more than 200 partners across the globe, sends more than 100,000 books per month, and has given away more than 4 million books!”
This was accomplished through Bailey Dion’s efforts to create a new model of doing business within the publishing industry, as she positioned PJ Library to work like an agent as well as a client by proactively and collaboratively finding new manuscripts and story ideas, and structuring a purchasing process and timeline that allowed new books to be published for both PJ Library and the trade market.
“Having more families get more books is the way we measure success, and the way we do that is through efficiencies and economies of scale,” she explained. “The same principles that apply to business can also be applied to philanthropy.”
Personally, she’s been applying those entrepreneurial principles and passions to benefit local food pantries and kitchens. She worked tirelessly to make Share the Bounty, a program that supports shares in local farms, a more viable business; it was eventually adopted by Berkshire Grown, a nonprofit Berkshire County program that supports local agriculture.
In her home life, she and her arborist and horticulturalist husband plan on growing gardens and an orchard at their new, 13-acre home in Granville. Chances are, she’ll exceed growth goals there as well.

— Elizabeth Taras

PictureThis

Departments Picture This

Send photos with a caption and contact information to: ‘Picture This’ c/o BusinessWest Magazine, 1441 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103 or to [email protected]

Bold Undertaking

More than 2,000 people crammed into the MassMutual Center on March 22 for the18th annual Bay Path Women’s Leadership Conference, which promotes skill building and personal growth. The theme for this year’s event was”Be Bold,” a tone reflected by the keynote speakers, including musician, author, actress, and entrepreneur Queen Latifah and those presenting educational breakout sessions. From top: morning keynote speaker Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. Queen Latifah (fourth from left) with the Bay Path team that produces the event, from left, Stephanie Bradshaw, former assistant to the vice president for Planning & Student Development; Caron Hobin, vice president for Planning and Student Development; Briana Sitler, director of Special Programs; Stacey Perlmutter, assistant to Hobin; and Kendrah Bitgood, class of 2014, conference student assistant. Peggielene Bartels, known as ‘King Peggy’ — who in 2008 inherited the position of King of Otuam, Ghana, Africa, a position that for centuries had always been held by men — speaks to the packed house. Carol Leary, Bay Path College president, presents Queen Latifah with a school sweatshirt.

Table Top Talking

The 19th Annual Table Top Exposition & Business Networking Event took place at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House on March 20, hosted by the chambers of commerce of Greater Holyoke, Greater Chicopee, Greater Easthampton, and Greater Northampton. Almost 200 vendors showcased their products and services to hundreds in attendance. From top: Susan Seaver, assistant vice president at People’s United Bank, left, and Grace Dias, broker/realtor and owner of Grace Group Realty. Patience Waah, right, owner, and Mashaa Westbrook, office support, represent Victory Home Healthcare in Holyoke. Sarah Etelman, left, development coordinator for Girls Inc. of Holyoke, speaks with Patty Delisle, a Bay Path College intern. Joel Morse, associate director of Corporate Support at WGBY, is flanked by Karina Schrengohst, left, and Melanie Skroski, associate attorneys at Royal LLP. Michelle St. Jacques, left, property manger of Open Square in Holyoke, and Peg Boxold, president of Elegant Affairs and the Electric Café at Open Square.

Business Basics

Eric Gouvin, attorney, professor of Law, and the founder of both Western New England University (WNEU) School of Law’s Small Business Clinic and the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, was the March speaker for the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield’s CEO Luncheon. The luncheon, a perk of YPS membership, allowed an intimate group of YPS members to learn about Gouvin’s experiences with WNEU’s Entrepreneurial Speaker Series, Extreme Business Makeover, and Basic Business Law for Small Businesses information sessions. Speaking with Gouvin after the presentation is Megan Brady, customer advocate at Farm Credit Financial Partners Inc. in Agawam.

Cutting the Ribbon

Accountable Care Associates (ACA) recently relocated its corporate headquarters in Springfield from Birnie Avenue to Monarch Place. Part of a growing trend in accountable-care organizations of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers, the company gives highly coordinated care to patients with the goal of avoiding unnecessary duplication of services and preventing medical errors to improve patient outcomes. ACA brings more than 100 employees to the downtown area and projects 30 more within the next year. Cutting the ribbon in the company’s 10th-floor headquarters are, from left, Paul Picknelly, president of Monarch Enterprises; Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; and Dr. Philip Gaziano, chairman and CEO of ACA.

Day of Reading

Fourth-grade students at Memorial Elementary School in West Springfield joined Paul DiGrigoli, owner and CEO of DiGrigoli Salon and DiGrigoli School of Cosmetology, on March 1 to celebrate Read Across America Day. The National Education Association’s Read Across America Day is celebrated annually on or around the birthday of Dr. Seuss, the beloved children’s author. In support of the nation’s largest reading celebration, DiGrigoli read Dr. Seuss’s Happy Birthday to You! to the students. At left, left to right, are Russell Johnston, West Springfield school superintendent; Donna Calabrese, Memorial Elementary School principal; Susan Jaye-Kaplan, Link to Libraries co-founder; DiGrigoli; and Susan Landry, Link to Libraries project director.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

Chamber Corners Departments

ACCGS

www.myonlinechamber.com

(413) 787-1555

• April 10: April After 5, 5-7 p.m., at Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road, Longmeadow. The event will feature the ERC5 Feast in the East. Join us for a culinary event sure to please your palate as dozens of local restaurants present their signature dishes. Proceeds benefit the ERC5 Scholarship Fund. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact [email protected].

• April 3: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Springfield Marriott, 2 Boland Way, Springfield. Guest Speakers will be Carol Leary, president of Bay Path College, and Ira Rubenzahl, president of Springfield Technical Community College. They will speak on the subject “The Importance of Public and Private Higher Educational Institutions in Workforce Development.” Chief greeter: Sarah Tsitso, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club Family Center. Salute: the Horace Smith Fund, for its 115th anniversary. For more information and to purchase tickets for the breakfast event, contact [email protected].

AMHERST AREA

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com

(413) 253-0700

• April 10: Amherst Area Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Applewood at Amherst, 1 Spencer Dr., Amherst. Tickets: $17 for members, $20 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected] or register online at www.amherstarea.com.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org

(413) 594-2101

• April 17: April Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Kittredge Center, Holyoke Community College. Tickets are $20 for members, $26 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

• April 8: Meet Your Legislators, 5-8 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr. in Chicopee. Meet the legislators who represent you and your business, and start a relationship and a partnership with the Commonwealth’s leadership. Your chamber membership affords you a valuable voice on issues that impact your bottom line. Sponsored by Mohegan Sun. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.franklincc.org

(413) 773-5463

• April 19: Chamber Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. Program to be announced. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 773-5463.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org

(413) 527-9414

• April 13: REACH Fest Day, starting at 10 a.m. REACH invites local and national artists to show in a multi-city exhibition of contemporary practitioners working in a variety of non-traditional formats. REACH promotes visibility, aims to bridge the arts and spaces in neighboring cities, encourages collaborative experimentation, and invites community members to participate in experiencing an array of contemporary art practices that are exhibited in a variety of traditional, non-traditional, and underutilized spaces throughout participating cities and towns. With more than 25 artist installations and exhibitions, a series of events are scheduled for REACH Fest Day. There will be performances in Easthampton and Holyoke by contemporary movement and sound artists and the One-Minute Vidfest, a film festival at Popcorn Noir in Easthampton featuring one-minute short films submitted by more than 80 artists from Easthampton to Serbia. All exhibitions will be open for visitation in Holyoke from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and in Easthampton from 4 to 9 p.m., in conjunction with the monthly Art Walk Easthampton. For more information visit www.reachfest.com

GREATER HOLYOKE

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holycham.com

(413) 534-3376

• April 17: Chamber Business Connections, 5-7 p.m., Renaissance Manor on Cabot Street. members of nonprofit organizations may attend as our guest; limit two employees per organization. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for non-members. For more information or to register, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376 or visit www.holycham.com.

• April 18: Accessing Workforce Training Funds, 8-10 a.m., in the PeoplesBank Conference Room in Kittredge Center on the campus of Holyoke Community College. Learn if your company qualifies and what you have to do to get a piece of the pie. Price includes a continental breakfast. Tickets are $20 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information or to register, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376 or visit www.holycham.com.

• April 25: Beacon Hill Summit. Buses depart at 7 a.m. and return at 7 p.m. Ticket cost of $180 includes transportation, breakfast, lunch with legislators, materials, and wrap-up reception. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 for more details or to sign up.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com

(413) 584-1900

• April 3: Arrive@5, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, 80 Locust St., Northampton. Sponsored by King And Cushman Inc. and ACME Auto Body & Collision Center. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can for a casual mix and mingle with your colleagues and friends. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for non-members. To register, call the chamber office at (413) 584-1900 or visit www.explorenorthampton.com.

GREATER WESTFIELD

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org

(413) 568-1618

• April 10: WestNet Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Betts Piping Supply Co., 14 Coleman Ave., Westfield. Spend a couple of hours networking with local businesses. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 cash at the door for non-members. For more information or to register, contact Pam Bussell at (413) 568-1618 or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

www.springfieldyps.com

• April 18: Third Thursday, 5-7 p.m., at Adolfo’s Restaurant, 254 Worthington St., Springfield. Join YPS at Adolfo’s, an Italian restaurant and bar situated across from historic Stearns Square in the heart of Springfield’s Entertainment District. The menu features a selection of traditional Italian dishes along with creative house specialties and a wide choice of wines to match.

Company Notebook

Company Notebook Departments

V-One Founder Wins Entrepreneurship Award

HADLEY — Valley Vodka Inc., a Western Mass.-based company, announced that Paul Kozub, owner and founder of V-One Vodka, was one of three winners of the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the 2013 Nightclub & Bar show in Las Vegas. Nightclub & Bar Media Group announced the winner of the first annual Nightclub & Bar show in late March. The national awards program celebrates emerging small businesses producing innovative products for the nightlife industry. Nightclub & Bar set out to find the next big company to take off in 2013. The Entrepreneurs Program is a unique opportunity for new companies to be recognized for their outstanding innovation and awarded with a complimentary booth at the 2013 Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show, which took place in Las Vegas March 19-21. Companies that qualified submitted their brand, company, product, or new innovation to a panel of industry judges for review. “This is our first event outside of the New England market, so I was thrilled to be recognized on a national level,” said Kozub. “The Nightclub & Bar Show is the largest of its kind, with over 900 exhibitors. We are very humbled to be chosen out of this elite group of companies. The three winners are shining examples of originality and innovation in today’s tough marketplace.” The winners will be profiled on nightclub.com and highlighted in the BarIQ e-newsletter. V-One Vodka was started by Paul Kozub in 2005 as a way to honor his recently deceased Polish grandfather and his entrepreneurial father, who passed away a few months after Paul graduated from college. The V-One recipe was developed in the basement of his Hadley, home. V-One is now produced exclusively by Polmos Lublin in Poland. It is the only vodka made solely from 100% organic spelt wheat, the rarest and most expensive grain in the world. Today, a small amount of this wheat is grown in Hadley, while the majority is grown in Poland. BusinessWest named Kozub a 40 Under Forty honoree in 2007.

Greenough Packaging Certified as Minority and

Woman-owned Enterprise

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Greenough Packaging & Maintenance, a leading regional distributor of shipping, safety, break-room, janitorial, cleaning, and facility-maintenance supplies, was recently certified as a Minority and Woman-owned Business Enterprise by the Mass. Supplier Diversity Office of the Commonwealth’s Operational Services Division. The OSD’s standard of certification is a rigorous process that includes an in-depth review of the business as well as a site inspection. The certification process is designed to confirm that the business is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a minority or woman. Greenough became a woman-owned business when controlling interest in the company was acquired by Sandy Cassanelli in 2003. As the majority shareholder and CEO of Greenough, Cassanelli provides strategic direction to the organization and oversees operations and accounting. “I am delighted that Greenough has been certified as a woman-owned business enterprise,” she said. “The certification will enable us to both expand our business and create new jobs as well as to better serve our customers by helping them meet their supplier-diversity initiatives.” By including woman-owned businesses among their vendors, corporations and government agencies demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier/vendor diversity programs. The Mass. Operational Services Division (OSD) is the Commonwealth’s central procurement and contracting office. In 2010, Gov. Deval Patrick signed Executive Order 523, establishing a Small Business Purchasing Program (SBPP) in Massachusetts. The mission of the SBPP is to support the existence and growth of small businesses by directing state spending for non-construction goods and services to SBPP-participating vendors. The OSD is responsible for SBPP development and implementation, including policies, training, capacity building, and annual benchmarks. Greenough serves customers from a broad range of markets throughout the U.S., including manufacturing, education, property management, retail, medical, food processing, fulfillment, commercial cleaning, and distribution. In addition, it provides custom-packaging and food-packaging solutions.

People’s United Awards $5,000 to Gray House

SPRINGFIELD — The People’s United Community Foundation, the philanthropic arm of People’s United Bank, announced that it has awarded $5,000 to the Gray House in Springfield. The Gray House, a human-services agency, encourages neighbors in transition to achieve a more stable, safe, and productive life through education and community service. The grant from People’s United Community Foundation will support the Kids’ Club after-school and summer programs, which provide a safe, caring environment where children are served nutritious meals and participate in educational and creative activities. “The Gray House is honored to receive this grant from People’s United Community Foundation and continue our partnership,” said Dena Calvanese, executive director of the Gray House. “People’s United Community Foundation’s support helps us provide children opportunities to learn, engage in constructive activities, and have fun.” Timothy Crimmins Jr., officer of People’s United Community Foundation and president of the Massachusetts Division of People’s United Bank, said the Gray House is a valuable resource in the community. “We are proud to contribute to their success,” he continued. “By working together, we can truly build a better tomorrow for kids. The Gray House enhances the early-educational experience for many local children and supports the efforts of parents and caregivers in the community.” Established in 2007, People’s United Community Foundation was formed to help support programs and activities that enhance quality of life for citizens in the communities that People’s United Bank serves. It places special emphasis on programs designed to promote economic self-sufficiency, education, and improved conditions for low-income families and neighborhoods. The funding priorities of the foundation include community development, youth development, and affordable housing.

NAACP Backs Casino Plan

of MGM International

SPRINGFIELD — The general membership of the Greater Springfield NAACP voted recently to ratify the recommendation of its executive committee concerning a proposed casino in Western Mass. “Given the recent statements by city officials that they intend to only put one applicant on the ballot and intend to name that applicant in the coming weeks, this is the appropriate time to release our recommendation,” the organization stated in a release. While the branch did not vote to support gaming, it did take a position that the plan advanced by MGM International provides the best opportunities for African-Americans and other communities of color to be included in construction work, professional-services contracts, and employee hiring should it be selected to build a facility in the region.

Briefcase

Briefcase Departments

State Approves Projects Aimed at Boosting Jobs

BOSTON — The state Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC) recently approved nine projects for participation in the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP), which are expected to create 1,209 new jobs and retain 5,935 existing jobs, in addition to leveraging nearly $267 million in private investment and supporting construction projects across the Commonwealth. Among the eight approved projects are four manufacturing companies and five projects located in Gateway Cities. The EDIP program helps reduce the cost of business for these companies, which is one of the five main focuses of the Patrick-Murray administration’s long-term economic-development plan. These are the first projects approved in 2013 by the Coordinating Council, which meets on a quarterly basis to review applications. “Supporting companies that are choosing to grow in Massachusetts is an important part of our effort to create economic opportunity for everyone,” said Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Greg Bialecki. “These investments will help these businesses expand here and fit with our overall economic-development strategy of making our businesses and communities stronger in the long term.” Two of the projects are based in Western Mass., at MassMutual in Springfield and Crane & Co. in Dalton. Last fall, MassMutual purchased the retirement plan portfolio of the Hartford Insurance Co., and will be moving back-office jobs from Connecticut to Springfield. The expansion at the Springfield facility will create 250 jobs while retaining 3,352 existing jobs. This project represents a private investment by the company of $59.4 million. The EACC has approved $3.75 million in EDIP investment tax credits (ITCs) to support MassMutual’s efforts and investments. Meanwhile, Crane & Co. is a seventh-generation, family-owned paper manufacturer that acquired a Kennebunk, Maine, company, William Arthur Inc., in late 2012. Crane & Co. will incorporate the Maine operations into its existing stationary operations located in North Adams. This project represents an investment of $5 million and will create 74 new jobs in Massachusetts while retaining 206. North Adams has awarded Crane a five-year special tax assessment valued at $291,030.

Sarno Argues Against Law That Limits Casino Tax Revenues

BOSTON — Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno recently asked state lawmakers to approve legislation that would exempt a proposed casino’s land from the state’s tax-limiting law, allowing Springfield to collect an additional $15 to $20 million in annual property taxes. Sarno and his aides met with the chief of staff for House Speaker Robert DeLeo and Sen. Stephen Brewer, chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee. Sarno also testified on the bill before the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Revenue. Under Proposition 2 ½, Springfield cannot collect property taxes from ‘new growth,’ Sarno noted. “The Legislature has provided for a potentially huge economic driver in our city in the form of a casino,” he told members of the committee. “We all know that the benefits of a casino are still a few years away, but if we are lucky enough to have one, our benefits are even further away than you think due to the constraints of Proposition 2 ½ and its rules around how new growth is calculated.” Sarno is currently negotiating with two casino companies that are each proposing estimated $800 million casino resorts for Springfield. MGM Resorts International is planning a casino in the South End, and Penn National Gaming is planning a casino in the North End.

Springfield Wins $21.9M for Disaster Recovery

SPRINGFIELD — The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently announced that it is allocating $21.9 million to the Springfield to aid its recovery from weather disasters in 2011.
The funding is in response to the June 1 tornado that swept through Springfield and surrounding communities, as well as Hurricane Irene, which brought flooding to many communities two months later; both events were declared federal disasters.
The funds are part of $514 million allocated among nine states nationwide through HUD’s Community Development Block Grant program.
“In the last two years, many communities have had to deal with the reality of our changing climate and the increasing severity of natural disasters,” said Shaun Donovan, HUD secretary. “HUD is continuing to work closely with state and local partners to help them realize a locally driven vision for restoring and rebuilding housing, infrastructure, and businesses that have been affected.”

Springfield Unemployment Declines in February

SPRINGFIELD — The city’s unemployment rate fell in February to 10.6% from 11.7% in January. Springfield’s unemployment rate was 11.4% a year ago in February 2012, according to figures from the state Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a region, Greater Springfield’s unemployment rate was 8% in February, down from 8.8% the previous month and 8.5% a year ago in February 2012. At the same time, the number of employed Springfield residents rose from 57,039 in January to 57,566 in February. The numbers are not adjusted for seasonal changes in the economy, and unemployment rates typically spike in January as holiday-season jobs end before spring construction jobs begin. The statewide unadjusted unemployment rate was 6.8% in February. Adjusted for inflation, the unemployment rate was 6.5%. The national average, adjusted for seasonality, was 7.7% in February. Meanwhile, Massachusetts has surpassed pre-recession job levels statewide. Revised numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed 3,318,500 jobs in February, compared to 3,304,300 in April 2008.

Doing Business as Certificates

DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of and March 2013.

AGAWAM

Alwayz Growing

1399 Suffield St.

Jezaida Lisella

Deb Hunter

339 Walnut St.

Deborah Hunter

EJW Associates

59 Reed St.

Edward Warzecka

Throttle Rocker Magazine

53 Fairview St.

Robert Alves

CHICOPEE

Beauty Rehab

559 East St.

Donna Bigos

IGM

30 Nye St.

Paul Poreda

Scentsational Marketing

59 Greenwood Terrace

David Girard

Somas Global Investment

221 Poplar St.

Amos Vmezuruike

GREENFIELD

Franklin Optical Shoppe

489 Bernardston Road

John P. Frangie

Lianna’s Pet Care Services

246 Wells St.

Joan James

Moose’s Gold, LLC

21 Mohawk Trail

Derrick Brooks

SS Floor Sanding

34 Franklin St.

Donald Schietroma

The Potter’s Touch

28 Chapman St.

Christine Hervieux

HOLYOKE

Fire Code & Education

540 County Road

Thomas G. Paquin

Pottery Barn

50 Holyoke St.

David R. King

Slainte Inc.

80 Jarvis Ave.

Debra Flynn

Swarovski

50 Holyoke St.

Emily Foster

LUDLOW

Hair On

733 Chapin St.

Maria Carvalho

Sosa Barber Shop

85 East St.

Antonio Sosa

T. Fiorentino Roofing

201 Cady St.

Thomas Fiorentino

PALMER

Rock Solid Landscape

128 River St.

Jacob Obrzut

S & S Food Mart

2019 Main St.

Syed Hashmi

Tebus at Crossroads

1701 Park St.

Paula Fitts

You Found Media

15 Cedar Hill St.

Paul Henry

SPRINGFIELD

Latina & Co. Hair Designer

876 Sumner Ave.

Yanitza Nogue

Leary Consulting

84 Tulsa St.

Sharon Michelle

Lewis Brothers International

667 Dickinson St.

Lisa M. Lewis

M & R General Automotive

419 Taylor St.

Miguel Gonzalez

Mass Techies Group

269 Greenaway Dr.

Moses K. Moses

Men’s Wearhouse & Tux

1267 Boston Road

The Men’s Wearhouse

Neighborhood Foods

1500 Main St.

Peter S. Choi

Noel Cleaning Services

1655 Main St.

Shirma N. Ferguson

Northway Services

1601 Page Boulevard

Carl A. Jasmin

Picks Computer Consulting

35 Gresham St.

David J. Pickrell

Precision Contracting

117 Shady Brook Lane

Mark Patterson

Proud 2 Persevere

75 Albemarle St.

Andre Yarns Jr.

Quality Home Care

123 Fort Pleasant Ave.

Christine Whyte

Quang’s Forest Park Barber

529 Belmont Ave.

Tuyen Q. Nguyen

Santos Home Improvement

70 Mattoon St.

Juan C. Santos

Springfield United Sports

19 Wentworth St.

Richard T. Moultrie

Superior Fashion

301 Belmont Ave.

Jerry L. Mattey Jr.

T.U.C.

261 Jasper St.

Juan Santiago

Tru By Mi

324 Arcadia Blvd.

Migyon Forbes

V II Cleaning Industries

164 Belmont Ave.

Aida J. Santiago

Vietnam Travel

465 Belmont Ave.

Benjamin Nguyen

WESTFIELD

Chintos 2 Go

78 Franklin St.

Jacinto Blanco-Munoz

Hobgoblin Entertainment

16 Princeton St.

David Kennedy

Father & Sons Hardscaping & Landscaping

32 Rosedell Dr.

Taras Mikhalinchik

Mike Barna Building and Carpentry

360 Prospect St.

Michael Barna

Roman Empire Truck Detailing & Services

140 Union St.

Orlando J. Roman-Rodriguez

Stay & Play Deluxe Laundromat Inc.

65 Franklin St.

Eric Meyers

TC Enterprizes

32 Woodcliff Dr.

Danielle M. Todt

The Begoodkids

12 Fowler St.

Joseph Bushior

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Kitchen Resources

64 Sean Louis Circle

Susan Hoey

L.T.D. Investigating

181 Park Ave.

Luke Gelinas

Lawn Pro

161 Great Plains Road

William J. Paquette

Mark Pagios Construction

302 Rogers Ave.

Mark S. Pagios

Massage Envy Spa

935 Riverdale St.

Mark S. Sarrazin

Maxim Seamless Gutters

920 Memorial Ave.

Maksim Barabolkin

Men’s Wearhouse & Tux

1321 Riverdale St.

Claudia Pruitt

Mike’s Welding

55 Church St.

Miguel A. Cordero

Mind, Body, Skin

117 River St.

Kristen S. Strojvus

Mr. Rooter Plumbing

309 Woodmont St.

David Tourville

On the Border

33 Border Way

OTB Acquisition, LLC

Pension & Benefits Association

131 Wayside Ave.

Mark F. Shea

Quick Stop

20 River St.

Earlene Oberlander

Re-Energize Massage

36 Therese Marie Lane

Regina M. Amato

Red Carpet Inn

560 Riverdale St.

Rajendra Patel

Rental Remarketing Inc.

74 Baldwin St.

Michael M. Gentile

Sanditz Travel

1053 Riverdale St.

Henry Richard

Sorcinelli Real Estate

29 Sikes Ave.

Antonio Sorcinelli

Soulful Kreations Designs

20 Hummingbird Lane

Karen M. Palanjian

Spartak Home Remodeling

1153 Elm St.

Serghei Chitu

Spherion Staffing

68 Westfield St.

Corp. Stix Inc.

Suburban Janitorial

1900 Westfield St.

Ralph E. Figueroa

Sunny’s Convenience

2260 Westfield St.

Sunil R. Patel

Team Rehab & Wellness

753 Union St.

Adnan Dhadul

The Guardians

104 Kings Highway

George Colon

The Kid’s Place Inc.

915 Memorial Ave.

Scott L. Petersen

The Q Bar & Grill

885 Riverdale St.

Hannahneena Inc.

Tip Top Nails

239 Memorial Ave.

Hoa C. Thach

Twins II Hairstyling Salon

1421 Westfield St.

Elaine Stanek

Usi Insurance Solutions

123 Interstate Dr.

Dana Scribner

Westfield Bank

206 Park St.

Gerald P. Ciejka

Westside Auto Sales

194 Baldwin St.

Anthony Lafromboise

Dollars & Sense

Accounting and Tax Planning Sections

A chart of accounting firms in Western Masss.

Click here to download the PDF

Baby Boomers by the Numbers

Accounting and Tax Planning Sections

There Are Financial Milestones That Come Along with Many Birthdays

Jim Kenney

As Baby Boomers age, I’ve found a great many of them to be unaware of some of the financial milestones that came with each birthday.

Having always been a numbers guy, I thought it might be a good time to share some important financial-planning thoughts for some of these important digits.

50

The 401(k) annual contribution provision allows for a catch-up contribution of $5,500, increasing the allowable contribution to $23,000 in 2013. IRAs have a $1,000 catch-up provision, and the SEP-IRA maximum contribution goes to $51,000.

55

If you are 55 or older and you lose your job, then you are allowed to take a distribution from your 401(k) plan without incurring the 10% penalty. Keep in mind that you will still have to pay taxes on the amount distributed.

59 1/2

This is the age when you can begin taking withdrawals from whatever type of retirement account that you have without having to pay that dreaded penalty. If the original contributions weren’t taxed, then the withdrawals will be. However, Roth IRAs are tax- and penalty-free if the account is at least five years old.

62

You can begin collecting Social Security benefits (this can occur earlier if you are disabled) if you are willing to take a haircut on your benefit of about 25%. Also, if you continue to work and make above a certain amount, the benefits may be further reduced. This decision takes some planning and needs some thoughtful consideration.

65

You can now apply for Medicare. (You will be automatically enrolled if you already started collecting on your Social Security benefits.) Most financial planners recommend you take this step three months in advance of your birthday.

66-67

At the IRS designated full retirement age, you can begin collecting your full retirement benefits regardless of whether or not you are still working. If you delay collecting until age 70, your benefit will increase by 8% per year.

70

That 8% increase benefit stops at age 70, so I can’t think of a good reason not to take advantage of the Social Security system that you contributed to.

70 1/2

You are now required to take withdrawals from your tax-advantage retirement accounts unless you are still working or it is in a Roth IRA that you either started or inherited from your spouse. The required distributions are computed based on a life-expectancy formula and must be withdrawn by Dec. 31 (first-year distributions can be delayed until April 1 of the next year, but that will double year two’s income). You should consider consolidating your IRAs to make the calculation easier.

That’s a quick look at your decisions by the numbers. Now it’s time to crunch the numbers and make some decisions.

James P. Kenney, CPA, MBA is a member of the firm with Wolf & Co., P.C., which has several offices in the Northeast, including Springfield; (413) 747-9042.

Improvement on the Home Front

Landscape Design Sections

Landscape Architects Say People Are Investing in Their Backyards>

Brian Campedelli says landscaping is a way for people to extend their home into their yard.

Last summer, Brian Campedelli sat in a client’s backyard, enjoying a lobster dinner, while soft music played and low-voltage lighting lit up the plantings, firepit, and other improvements made to the property.
“You could hear the waterfall in the background and the sound of the grasses rustling, and my client told me she felt like she was in Hawaii,” said the president of Pioneer Landscapes Inc. in Easthampton.
His comments mirrored those of other local landscape architects who say that, although the economy has not fully recovered, business on the home front is improving, and many people are investing in their own backyards and turning them into private oases.
“People want to be able to utilize their property every day, and by creating an outdoor room, they are extending their home into their yard,” Campedelli told BusinessWest. “Last year was a stellar year, and we couldn’t even get everything done, so we are carrying over quite a bit of work and are already running in many directions. I have three full-time estimators for residential work.”
Drew DeMay, owner of Fountain Bleu Landscape and Outdoor Design in West Springfield, agreed, and noted that people’s interest in transforming their backyards is growing. “People want a private area where they can enjoy themselves, relax, have some food, and sit by water, because they are staying home and not going out as much.”
In fact, his company “switched lanes” a few years ago when construction died down and businesses stopped spending money. He invented the Water-Vac professional-grade vacuum to clean ponds that hit the market about a year ago, and said the company is doing more residential work, with homeowners requesting improvements that include patios and shrubs.
“Last year was a really good year. People got tired of holding onto their money and started to spend it,” he said. “But last year at this time the weather was 70 degrees, and people already had their yards cleaned up, so we are at the beginning of what will happen over the summer. But people want to be able to come home and have a place to relax,” he told BusinessWest.
And the trend is so strong that William St. Clair said his company, St. Clair Landscaping and Nursery Inc. in Hampden, is developing a program called Beautiful Backyards, which will allow people to incorporate plantings, patios, walls, perennial gardens, water gardens, sitting gardens, privacy hedges, firepits, and more into their personal landscape.
He said the company has done some extravagant projects during the past decade, including waterfalls that cascade into pools, firepits, sitting gardens, and more. And although this is not the norm and many people have downsized their dream of what a backyard retreat will entail, they still want to create a place that is tranquil.
“We’ve done a lot of work for college professors who like to sit on a bench in their backyard and read,” St. Clair said. The benches can be put next to a water garden or pondless waterfall, or “an area that has been created where people can sit and relax.”
Firepits are extremely popular, and last year St. Clair installed 18 of them. “One was elaborate and had a patio around it that can sit two to six people,” he said. Other homeowners want walls to surround their firepits, which creates additional seating.
“There are a lot of really neat things that can be done,” he said. “People tell us, when they come home at the end of the day, they want their yard to look pristine and be something really special.”
Steve Prothers, owner of Amherst Landscape and Design Associates, validated the trend. As the economy regains strength, he said, people are willing and ready to spend money on their homes again.
“We’ve seen a resurgence in spending over the past two years,” he noted, “and people are doing things they have wanted to do for a long time; their goal is to be able to enjoy their outdoor space without having to leave town.”
Commercial business is also on the upswing. “We’ve seen some vibrancy in the last few years in terms of the amount of work and competitiveness,” Prothers told BusinessWest. “I have a small company, but there is a feeling across the board in our industry that things are looking brighter, which is a good sign.”

Changing Climate
St. Clair said this past year was a “very, very good one.”
“Our forte is high-end residential projects, and last year we did several of them,” he reported. In fact, his business increased by about 32%.
But it has still not returned to what it was before the recession, and several years ago the company added maintenance to the services it offers, in part to fill the void, but also because people who spend a significant amount of money want their property professionally maintained.
“We used to have 18 people working for us, and last year we had between 10 and 13,” he said. “This year, we’re starting off with the same number. But we’re doing things to become more efficient — buying smarter and asking our employees to become more cognizant of waste.”
In addition, for the third year in a row, St. Clair’s employees are working four 10-hour days, which allows them to get more done and also gives them Friday and Saturday as makeup days in case of inclement weather, which can help them meet deadlines. Still, last year they weren’t able to finish up one of their biggest projects because the ground froze.
“And right now, we have enough work to take us through July 1, which is not bad for any business,” he said.
He attributes part of his success to the personal relationships he builds with clients. But the tornado of 2011 also resulted in work, such as a property in Longmeadow that suffered extensive tree damage. In addition to ripping out an entire row of pines damaged by the storm and replacing them with emerald-green arborvitae, the homeowners had their entire front and backyard landscaped.

Bill St. Clair says homeowners want to build spaces that promote relaxation, whether it’s a firepit, water feature, or a pergola like this one — a structure that’s becoming more popular.

“And right now, we have four jobs on the books to replace privacy hedges that were damaged by the tornado,” St. Clair added.
Walter Cudnohufsky, owner of Walter Cudnohufsky Associates Inc. in Ashfield, is also doing more residential work. In some cases, people are buying property and fixing problems that were never resolved, such as drainage issues, but in others they are upgrading their landscapes. “But the first words we hear from everyone are ‘low maintenance,’” he said.
Cudnohufsky also handles a lot of commercial work and has been busy for the past two years. He said towns, like homeowners, want to make improvements that the community can enjoy. But he believes there is a real misunderstanding about the importance of design.
“People have grown up in houses and yards, so they don’t think they need assistance. But even if they get a short consultation, it’s an insurance policy against making a major error and spending money frivolously and needlessly,” he explained. “You want to be able to do as much as you can with your budget.”
For example, a granite countertop for a barbecue could equal the cost of renovating the entire landscape, when there are other choices, such as outdoor concrete, which are attractive and durable, Cudnohufsky said.

Popular Features
Although people are spending money, DeMay said, many have “downsized their imagination,” especially when it comes to water features. “Bigger used to be better, and we used to build a lot of large ponds and courtyards.”
But today, people are spending less and want to avoid the maintenance that ponds with fish and vegetation require. “Many prefer to have a small pond with a waterfall for the simple fact that it costs a lot less money,” he said. “They can still get the sound and the effect of tranquility, but want be able to come home and just relax outside.”
St. Clair agrees that people don’t want to have to work to keep their landscape attractive. “There is no such thing as no maintenance, but everyone wants to minimize it. They don’t want to be married to a water feature or their yard,” he said.
So many are opting for waterfalls. “The sound of tranquility that comes from water flowing is mesmerizing, and people can sit by it, relax, and contemplate,” DeMay said.
Campedelli said pondless waterfalls free people from liability, and can be enhanced by ornamental grasses that complement the soothing sound of the water. “They grow seven to nine feet high, and when they are planted around seating areas and waterfalls, they are beautiful to look at, and the sound is soothing whenever a slight breeze blows through them.”

Drew DeMay says a slowdown in commercial work in recent years has coincided with increasingly strong residential demand.

Firepits are also enormously popular. “Everyone wants one. Their kids can sit and roast marshmallows, or they can have their neighbors over and put their feet up and relax,” Campedelli said. “Our clients want to keep their fires going during the summer, even when it’s really hot, because of the atmosphere it creates.”
St. Clair concurred. “We are also putting in a lot of firepits. They have really become a big trend, and we have clients who are using them throughout the winter.”
Some people choose gas burners, while others opt for the traditional wood-burning style, built with drains inside so the fire can be extinguished without having to leave coals smoldering.
“More and more companies are creating gas inserts, and some units are built to look like fireplaces,” DeMay said, adding that firepits and outdoor cooking have become so popular that some people are having outdoor kitchens built, a trend he expects to continue. “They are incorporating them into small courtyards.”
Another growing market is patios and walkways, which local landscape architects say are becoming more popular than wood decks. “Even the composite materials weather and need pressure washing or replacement,” Campedelli told BusinessWest, adding that the materials available today “are gorgeous and come in many different patterns.”
St. Clair said pergolas are also seeing interest. The structures are similar to a large arbor, and plants such as wisteria climb the sides and form a leafy roof as they grow to cover the rafters.
Lighting is another factor that plays a significant role in the ambience of outdoor spaces after the sun sets. Low-voltage lighting is being built into walls, hung on trees, or arranged to illuminate walkways or the entire perimeter of a landscaped area. It is also being installed around firepits, in sitting gardens, or on fireplaces.
“I’m also a big fan of torches,” Campedelli said. “They’re a key element in lighting. There is nothing like flickering light with shadows, so we create an atmosphere using a combination of torches and low-voltage lighting.”

Worthwhile Investment
Campedelli said some people are having outdoor areas wired for a TV, with speakers built into the sitting area. “It’s a theme-park type of feel with background music. Think of the worst day at work you ever had, then imagine coming home and opening your back door and feeling like you are on vacation or at the beach. We build that feeling.”
And once the work is done, families can stay home and relax in their surroundings. “People don’t want to have to drive anywhere once they get home from work,” DeMay said.
In short, the future looks bright indeed for landscape architects as homeowners take steps to create their own private refuges and places of relaxation.

People on the Move

Departments People on the Move

Anthony Montemagni

UBS Wealth Management Americas (WMA) announced that Anthony Montemagni, CFP®, Vice President of Investments, has been named to its exclusive ‘Top 35 Under 35’ program. “The Financial Advisors recognized for this program have shown an outstanding level of dedication to their clients, our firm and the industry, “said Bob McCann, CEO, UBS Wealth Management Americas. “Their commitment to partnering with clients to provide the best advice and services sets us apart from our competitors.” Montemagni has more than 16 years of experience in the financial services industry, all with UBS. He has earned extensive professional recognition for his achievements over the years. He attributes much of his success by offering his clients a combination of trust, expertise and a comprehensive understanding of their needs. In addition to being one of a select group of UBS Wealth Advisors, he has completed intensive training and testing to be recognized as a certified financial planner™ professional. He is one of an exclusive group of approved advisors in the UBS Defined Contribution Plan Consulting Program, and he is a portfolio manager within the firm’s Portfolio Management Program. He is also a member of the UBS Director’s Council.

Best of the West?

An architect’s rendering of Mohegan Sun Massachusetts.

Features

Mohegan Sun Believes It’s Still Holding a Winning Hand

An architect’s rendering of Mohegan Sun Massachusetts.

Mitchell Etess says that, even when its plan for a casino in Palmer was essentially the only one on the table, Mohegan Sun knew there would be competition for a license in this part of the state, and probably lots of it.

But now that this competition has materialized — three other proposals: two for downtown Springfield and the other at the Big E in West Springfield — the company is approaching its work in much the same way that it did in 2009, 2010, and 2011, when it had the only colorful architects’ renderings in the local newspapers, and the subjects of conversation were if and when casino legislation would ever be passed.

That approach is to focus primarily on the one word — or three words, depending on how one looks at it — that shape most discussions involving commercial real estate: location, location, location.

“We’ve been in this marketplace [New England] for some time, and we looked all over the Western Mass. region — we always wanted to be in the west,” said Etess, CEO of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, referring to the company’s prolonged search for a casino location. “We looked at every single site, including some in Springfield. But we ultimately chose our site because it is, without question, the best location in the west, in our opinion.”

Elaborating, he said the parcel directly off exit 8 of the Turnpike represents a true, and desirable, destination, something he believes cannot be said for the other Western Mass. proposals, and especially those in Springfield.

Mitchell Etess says the Palmer location brings a number of benefits for the Commonwealth as a true destination.

“Our location is someplace where people would want to go spend a few days,” he said. “I don’t say that to disparage Springfield, but the fact is, this is what people think about when they consider getting away for a few days — a place on a mountain, in the country — and not in the middle of a city.”

Meanwhile, this particular location may well have a huge advantage over the other three with regard to an emerging issue in this contest — the looming overhaul of an elevated section of I-91 that runs through downtown Springfield. If and when it happens, that project, estimated to cost $300 million to $400 million, would likely impact access to all three rival casino sites, said Etess.

“There’s a tremendous amount of congestion involved with an urban casino,” he said, “and we just don’t have that; we have people getting right off the turnpike and right onto our property.”

But while he did discuss the plight of his competitors to some degree, Etess chose to focus mostly on Mohegan’s project — now known as Mohegan Sun Massachusetts (more on that later) — and its strategic plan moving forward.

In essence, he said, this comes down to getting across the company’s main message: that a true destination resort casino is what the public wants, it’s what will best serve the state in terms of revenue, and it’s what Mohegan does.

“The reason there’s going to be gaming in Massachusetts is because of the success of Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods,” he explained. “What people in New England are used to is this rural gaming experience; we don’t believe people want to go downtown to go to the casino in New England, and we think people are very comfortable with what is known and successful.

“And, quite frankly, we know how to it,” he continued. “At the end of the day, we have the model that people are used to, we have the rural setting, we have access off the Turnpike, and we have 152 acres — we’re not pigeonholed into a few city blocks.”

For this issue, BusinessWest continues its series of stories on the players in the ongoing casino competition with another look at the Palmer project, which is now part of a crowded field, but a venture that those at Mohegan believe still stands alone.

Placing Its Chips

Much has happened since BusinessWest last talked at length with Etess and others involved with the Palmer casino proposal in the fall of 2011, just after gaming legislation was passed by the Legislature.

In short, Western Mass., and especially Springfield, became by far the most intense casino battleground in the Commonwealth. Over the span of a few months in the second half of 2012, three proposals were announced for Springfield, with one — Ameristar’s plan for a parcel off Route 291 — eventually shelved. In December, plans were announced for a project that would be built in a corner of the sprawling Big E complex on Memorial Drive in West Springfield. And in Holyoke, Mayor Alex Morse first announced he would consider a casino proposal for his community (after he campaigned against the concept when seeking the office in 2011), and then reversed course again and said such a facility wasn’t the answer for his city.

Through all that, the Palmer casino plan lost large amounts of attention in the press it once dominated, and, in the minds of some, lost some momentum as well.

But Etess doesn’t see it that way.

He acknowledged that his plan did lose some visibility as the press trained its cameras and microphones on the CEOs of rival casino developers as they stood in front of elaborate visual displays of their concepts. However, he said the Mohegan Sun plan never lost what he believes it has always had — a few important legs up on the competition, even before it materialized.

And this brings him back to that notion of location, but also Mohegan’s longstanding presence in the New England market, its track record with the resort-destination model, and the database of area customers it has at its disposal.

“If you ask people in this business to identify the biggest asset a casino has today, and they say anything other than their database, then they’re not being completely honest,” he explained. “Our casino will begin with a database of customers, and the ability to market directly to customers who are familiar with our brand, and that we know everything about, is something that no other competitor in the west can offer, and that’s a huge advantage.”

While watching MGM, Penn National, and Hard Rock International roll out their plans in 2012, Mohegan Sun officials were tweaking and, in their opinion, improving their proposal and making it more battle-ready.

New renderings of the project, including those on pages 6, 8, and 9, were released, and the name change — from Mohegan Sun Palmer to Mohegan Sun Massachusetts — was made official.

Mitchell Etess says the Palmer site offers many advantages, starting with its location off Turnpike exit 8.

Meanwhile, the company struck a partnership with the New York investment group Brigade Capital Management to bankroll the development, an accord that Etess believes will give the project another edge.

“We believe our project is on the soundest financial platform of anyone in the west,” he said, adding that this footing, coupled with a solid brand that is well-known in the region and the Palmer location, puts the project in a position to effectively compete for the license.

Overall, the Mohegan proposal is currently projected to cost $735 million and include a casino, hotel, and retail, said Etess, adding that the company is looking for a third-party developer to create other amenities to ensure the property has what he called “complete synergy.”

“We’re very comfortable that our casino and the additional third-party retail development is a very sound business model,” he continued, adding that be believes the proposal is right-sized for this location and that the market it is intended to serve is certainly strong enough to support it.

Groups supporting the casino, especially Citizens for Jobs & Growth in Palmer, have been anxious for details on the project and its latest developments, said Jennifer Baruffaldi, spokesperson for the organization, noting that a referendum on the plan could come as early as June, but is more likely to happen in September.

Etess said the existence of competition will impact the amount and nature of the information released on the project, but specifics will certainly be known before the referendum vote.

Odds Are

Etess told BusinessWest that he takes comfort in the fact that the competition that will unfold over the next 10 to 12 months and end with the Gaming Commission’s decisions on which operators will be awarded licenses for the three regions will not be a popularity contest decided by the public or the press.

It will come down to a simple, mostly objective contest to see which party can best convince the Gaming Commission that its project is the best bet for the Commonwealth, he said, adding that there are obviously many factors that will go into that decision beyond the urban-versus-rural casino debate — although that will be part of the discussion.

“This is about five people deciding what they believe is best for the state,” he explained, adding that he has been through similar competitions in other states and understands their vagaries and complexities. “They have to decide what will provide the most revenue for the Commonwealth and what brings the most to the table for the Commonwealth, because that’s what this is.

“It’s jobs, it’s community, it’s revenues you can drive, it’s creating out-of-state revenue … and we have a compelling case,” he went on, adding that it is summed up in the new name and logo for the Palmer project.

Etess told BusinessWest that the name was chosen carefully, to convey that this is a project that will have benefits for the entire state, not a city, such as Springfield, or the area surrounding it.

“This project benefits the Commonwealth,” he said. “This isn’t something that’s just going to benefit an urban area in downtown Springfield; it will bring jobs to Springfield, it will bring jobs to Worcester, it will bring jobs to the four-county area, and we believe that makes for a compelling case.

“Our goals and those of the [casino players] in Springfield are very different,” he went on. “They’re going to beat themselves up trying to argue what’s best for Springfield; our goal now is only to make a case about what’s best for the Commonwealth.”

Etess brushed aside comments from some observers of the casino contest that Mohegan Sun chose Palmer, and not a location further west, to minimize the impact on its operation in Connecticut. That theory holds that residents of some regions of Connecticut would be more likely to drive to Mohegan’s operation in that state (or to Springfield) than to Palmer.

Etess said that any operation in Western Mass. would draw patrons away from the Connecticut casinos, including one in Palmer, but the more relevant point is that a Palmer casino would more easily draw residents from across the Bay State and also Vermont, New Hampshire, and beyond than an operation in Springfield would.

“We don’t believe that people in New York, Vermont, or Albany who think about a vacation that includes gaming would go to downtown Springfield for that vacation,” he explained. “We believe that our location is much more realistic for that kind of vacation and presents a much bigger opportunity to benefit the Commonwealth.”

When asked about the company’s plans moving forward into the next stage of the competition, Etess said Mohegan will be doing mostly what it’s been doing since it set up a storefront on Main Street in Palmer in 2009.

“We’ve been planning, we’ve been part of the community, and we’ve continued to build relationships and have conversations within the community while watching the landscape unfold in front of us as we anticipated it would,” he said. “And we’re going to continue doing those things.”

Bottom Line

Etess told BusinessWest that he’s not sure if the Palmer proposal will benefit in any way from being the first proposal introduced to the Western Mass. region. And he acknowledges that many believe there are no advantages from such standing.

Such talk is mostly irrelevant now, he said, because the goal never really was to be the first one in, but to be the last project standing when it comes to the Western Mass. region.

He believes Mohegan Sun Massachusetts has some trump cards at its disposal — from location to brand to experience serving this region — that can enable it to win the jackpot.

George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]

Editorial

Opinion

Some Bright Spots for the Region

There is quite a bit to like about the story surrounding the startup company SolaBlock, profiled on page 30 of this issue.

For starters, this is a venture involving renewable energy, one of the more potential-laden growth areas for this region, and one where some of that potential is starting to be realized. Specifically, this initiative involves a new take on solar energy; instead of installing panels on rooftops, this company, founded by Patrick Quinlan, will build them right into cinderblocks, and then, hopefully, into walls of all kinds — for commercial and residential buildings, gardens, and even those built to block noise from highways. (There’s considerable potential there, because such walls are not usually obstructed by trees.)

The concept will be put to the test this summer — thanks to a $40,000 state grant — at a small building in the Technology Park at Springfield Technical Community College, just a stone’s throw (literally) from the Scibelli Enterprise Center, where SolaBlock is now a tenant.

And that’s the other aspect of this story that bodes well for this region.

Opened more than dozen years ago now, the Enterprise Center was launched by then-STCC President Andrew Scibelli with the hope that it would eventually become home to hundreds of startups that would generate commerce and, more importantly, create jobs across the region.

But while the center has played host to some success stories — in realms ranging from website design to a cross-border (Connecticut and Massachusetts) phone book that was eventually acquired by one of the larger players in that now-declining market — it has not lived up to its own vast potential.

However, it is enjoying what could be described as a renaissance under director Marla Michel, an executive STCC shares with UMass Amherst. Helped financially by another new tenant (Square One) that doesn’t exactly fit the startup description but needed accessible space after the June 2011 tornado leveled its headquarters building, the center is slowly building the tenant base in its business incubator.

Indeed, it now hosts ventures involved with everything from development of sporting goods to group sales for a wide range of shows and events.

But the center’s mission is obviously to offer much more than square footage to be leased. It also provides a wide range of support services and counseling designed to help fledging operations get off the ground and to that next level.

The center still has a ways to go to become the force within the local economy that its creators had in mind when the facility opened its doors in 2000. But it is certainly moving in the right direction after years of struggle following the Great Recession.

And this bodes well for Western Mass. because, as we’ve said many times, real growth and prosperity in this region is not going to come from a casino or through efforts to attract large employers. It will happen organically, through the development of new concepts and new companies that will create jobs and, hopefully, stay in this region and grow.

It’s too early to say how the SolaBlock concept will fare long-term — this summer’s testing of the product might yield some indication of its potential within the building industry. But at the moment, it’s an intriguing story in its own right, and part of another, more far-reaching story as well.

And they both involve building blocks that may yet change the landscape in Western Mass.

Opinion

Opinion

Career Readiness Critical for Young People

School to Career Connecting Activities, a collaborative effort between public and private partnerships, is led by 16 local workforce-investment boards in Massachusetts, including the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County (REB). The initiative provides high-school students with paid internship opportunities in a wide array of occupations and industries, from which students gain exposure to real-world work opportunities and learn professionalism, responsibility, and job-readiness skills that help them become attached to the workforce in the future.

Recent national surveys of employers and human-resource managers have found increasing concerns with the employability and skill deficiencies of young workers.

In 2007, connecting activities leveraged more than $45 million in employer wages, putting more than 17,500 students in internships at 6,500 employer sites. In 2012 alone, with funding at only $2.75 million, more than 9,800 students were placed in internships at 3,500 employer sites. With funding in the state budget for fiscal year 2013 at only $750,000, the program is facing extreme challenges.

In Hampden County, we were able to put 658 students into internships with 258 area employers in various industries, including WGBY, Big Y, Baystate Medical Center, Mercy Medical Center, Giggle Gardens, Holyoke Health Center, Polish National Credit Union, and many more.

The need for increased employment for the state’s teens is greater than in many years. According to a recent study by Northeastern University’s Center for Labor Market Studies, “in 2012, only 26% of the state’s teens found themselves able to obtain employment during an average month.” This was the lowest state teen-employment rate recorded over the past 50 years for which such data exists. Fewer than one of seven low-income teens in high school in 2011 worked in Massachusetts.

The Center for Labor Market Studies has documented that those students who work during their senior year or in multiple summer jobs over their high-school years are more likely to transition into college or the labor market after graduation. The habits learned in the workplace, such as productivity, teamwork, collaboration, problem solving, management, and initiative, are paramount for the Commonwealth’s youth.

In Hampden County, the REB is working with 18 different schools through four lead school-to-career connecting-activities coordinators, who assist students and the school’s career facilitators to secure employment and optimize learning through internship opportunities. With the decreases in funding since 2007, we unfortunately cannot serve all the students who could benefit from an internship.

Student experiences speak for themselves. At Minnechaug Regional High School in Wilbraham, two youths who participated in the School to Career Connecting Activities Program had plenty to say about their experiences.

A senior named Hannah, who placed at the town’s Engineering Department, said, “I loved my experience. It was a great way to learn about your intended college major [Civil Engineering]. I learned what was like to work in an office and how to use office equipment. I gained a lot of skills working on the computers with different programs. I learned how to interact with customers and employees. I learned how to be more observant and make certain connections. I learned that it is OK to take risks and be wrong and how to voice my opinion and not hide my ideas.

Meanwhile, a senior named Matthew, who placed at FloDesign, an innovative business incubator that specializes in contract engineering and technology commercialization, noted that “my goal of learning about the field and solidifying my decision on becoming an engineer has been met. By working on various projects and doing things actual engineers do, I have learned more than enough to be sure that this is the type of career I am looking for. ”

School to Career Connecting Activities staff are dedicated to providing opportunities for youth to develop their career skills while in school. The investment by the state Legislature in expanding these career-building tools and experience for its youth will help strengthen future employment opportunities for the young people of Massachusetts. This is not only an investment in the students themselves, but also in the Commonwealth’s future workforce and its economic growth potential.

For more information, contact Bill Ward, REB president and CEO, at (413) 787-1547.

Joseph Peters is chair of the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County. Andrew Sum is director of the Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University.

Celebrating the 2013 Difference Makers

Class of 2013 Difference Makers

Highlights from this year’s event

More than 350 people turned out at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke for a celebration of BusinessWest’s Difference Makers for 2013. The photos on the next several pages capture the essence of a special night, which featured entertainment from the Children’s Chorus of Springfield and the Taylor Street Jazz Band, fine food, and memorable comments from this year’s winners, who all conveyed the passion that has made them true Difference Makers. This year’s class, chosen by the editor and publishers of the magazine from dozens of nominations, reflects the many ways in which individuals and groups can make a difference in the community. State Troopers Michael Cutone and Thomas Sarrouf, along with John Barbieri, deputy chief of the Springfield Police Department, were chosen for their work to orchestrate the C3 Policing program in Springfield’s North End. John Downing, president of Soldier On, was selected for the many ways that organization improves quality of life for veterans. Bruce Landon, president and general manager of Springfield Falcons, was chosen for his efforts to keep professional hockey in Springfield over the past 35 years. The Sisters of Providence were chosen for their 140 years of service to the community, especially in the broad realms of healthcare, education, and social service. And Jim Vinick, senior vice president of Investments for Moors & Cabot Inc., was chosen for his work with many area nonprofits, especially the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Jimmy Fund.

Sponsored By:
Baystate Medical Practices • First American Insurance • Health New England • Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. • Northwestern Mutual • Royal LLP • Sarat Ford Lincoln • 6 Pt. Creative Works

For reprints contact: Denise Smith Photography / www.denisesmithphotography.com / [email protected]

Photos From the 2013 Difference Makers Gala

[Show slideshow]

Bright Ideas

Construction Sections

SolaBlock Wants to Drive Solar Power Up a Wall

Patrick Quinlan shows off a SolaBlock prototype.

Solar energy. It’s not just for rooftops anymore.

At least, not if Patrick Quinlan has anything to say about it. A longtime player on the national stage in the renewable-energy arena, he’s now developing some bright ideas in Springfield, as a tenant in the small-business incubator at the Scibelli Enterprise Center (SEC).

His latest project, SolaBlock, is a simple-enough concept: photovoltaic (PV) cells are built into cinderblocks, which are then used to build vertical walls — or laid over existing walls — where they generate energy from the sun.

“We’re so excited about all the possibilities,” Quinlan said. “I walk through the city and look up and say, ‘oh my goodness, that could all be SolaBlock.’ Or I drive down the road and see all the highway walls and say, ‘that could be SolaBlock.’” And the potential is not limited to the U.S., he noted. “We’re thinking globally.”

This summer, thanks to a $40,000 state grant (more on that later), the technology — for which Quinlan holds four patents — will be put to the test on a small building at the Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Technical Park, which also houses the Enterprise Center.

But he’s already thinking big. Among the capabilities of SolaBlock units, Quinlan says they are expected to:

• ‘Solarize’ residential or commercial building walls, retaining walls, garden walls, or any wall receiving sun for a good portion of the day, and also harvest renewable energy from highway sound walls, bridges, parking structures, railroad rights of way, property walls, or any other conventionally walled location.

Sound walls on highways, in fact, are a particularly intriguing option, because they’re not obstructed by trees in the summertime, yet aren’t totally covered by snow in the wintertime, noted Marla Michel, SEC director. “Trees get in the way of solar, but they’ve already been cleared on highways.”

• Provide critical solar power to unattended buildings, signs, or off-grid buildings that would otherwise be susceptible to vandalism or theft. “We wanted to make it so you couldn’t steal it, couldn’t break it, and it’ll be there for the life of the building,” Quinlan said.

• Provide secure power to critical buildings or shelters that may lose grid power or conventional PV in hurricane-force winds. Quinlan noted that SolaBlock can withstand winds of above 100 mph.

• Enable substantial solar electric generation for buildings sited in complex urban settings. “We’re really interested in the notion that you could have an off-grid, completely autonomous apartment in the middle of New York City, or out in the woods, freed of needing any electricity from the grid,” he said, noting that cities can lose power on a wide scale, as Manhattan did during Hurricane Sandy. “There are a lot of reasons why people want to be green and energy-secure, even in the city.”

• Provide autonomous, solar-powered electric-vehicle charging stations at remote locations.

But the benefits don’t stop with energy conservation and access; SolaBlock can be an effective educational tool as well. “This would be great for schools, because the solar could be at ground level, and kids could walk to it,” Quinlan said, adding that the connections could be viewed indoors throughout the year.

All told, Quinlan and his partners — Jason Laverty, William Stein, and Danielle Thorburn — have high hopes for SolaBlock. To date, those hopes have been founded on untested hypotheses … but that’s about to change.

Testing, Testing

Enter the Mass. Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and the Mass. Technology Transfer Center, which recently awarded a total of $200,000 to five Bay State entrepreneurs as part of the MassCEC Catalyst Program, which aims to fund the commercialization of new clean-energy technologies from startup companies or being spun out of established research institutions.

“The clean-energy innovations developed in Massachusetts are driving the clean-energy sector forward,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan, who chairs the MassCEC board of directors. “There are 5,000 clean-energy companies in Massachusetts, and these types of programs help support and grow this bustling industry.”

The $40,000 grants are intended to help early-stage researchers demonstrate the commercial viability of new clean-energy technology.

This will take place at Building 112 of the tech park, a small brick building used as a maintenance shed. The south and west walls, as well as the roof, will be covered with SolaBlock units, and meters will be installed to measure the energy production of the solar cells and compare the performance of the vertical and roof installations. An Internet connection will allow the public to read those meters and check the progress of the demo over the course of a full year. That project should go online by the fall.

“We’re grateful to the Clean Energy Center for having faith in us in Western Mass.,” Quinlan said, noting that the public often thinks of the Commonwealth’s clean-tech hub in terms of MIT and other Boston-area research institutions. “A $40,000 grant is a really big deal for us. And it’ll all be out there on the Internet for everyone to see.”

Quinlan said SolaBlock’s ‘concrete masonry units’ (CMUs) can be integrated into almost any existing wall specification, since the blocks retain their original insulation, compression, smoke, and fire-rating capabilities. And they’re economically attractive because the expensive metal frames used for both mounting traditional PV materials in a framed module and for mounting the modules to a building are eliminated. There is some additional cost of wiring from block to block, but at a fraction of the cost of the aluminum and steel needed for conventional construction.

He noted, however that the vertically placed blocks are expected to produce around two-thirds of the energy produced by a traditional, tilted PV array — hence the placement on both the walls and roof of the test building, to compare performance. However, he said, energy generation may be augmented by the placement of reflective materials (decorative white stone, for example) in front of the blocks.

Still, while vertical blocks may receive less sunlight than roof-mounted panels, SolaBlock walls can be installed over vast surface areas of a building that would not otherwise be providing electric power, therefore increasing the total energy production by the building — a key feature in achieving certification in the ever-popular Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program administered by the U.S. Green Building Council.

“The kits have to be high-automation,” Quinlan said, noting that one building fitted with SolaBlock cells might require thousands of blocks.

To that end, Quinlan outlined a business plan in which the company assembles the PV ‘kits’ and ships them to regional partners in the form of masonry-supply companies. SolaBlock has already reached out to Chicopee Mason Supplies in this region.

“They will be manufacturing the modified blocks we’ll be using under an agreement that gives them exclusive license in the region,” he explained. “We are developing a regional distribution partnership with them to distribute the finished material.”

That example will be repeated across the country. “We’ll build all the electronics in Western Mass.,” he continued, “then we’ll ship the electrical parts to our regional contract manufacturers to combine them and sell them regionally using the same model.”

That makes sense, Michel noted, because concrete blocks are typically sold only regionally due to their weight.

“It’s uneconomical to distribute them beyond about 200 miles,” Quinlan added. “More to the point, we discovered that most of the businesses that make concrete products are longtime family businesses in their regions, and we’d rather work with them than compete with them.”

That appeals to Quinlan on a personal level.

“I have an affinity for the trades,” he said, noting that his father was a plumber, and he put himself through college working with him. “SolaBlock is a way for people in the trades to work in the clean-tech arena. It’s not just for the elite. This is basically clean tech for regular people. You build it, it’s green, and it provides energy independence.”

The Next Phase

Quinlan, the former associate director of the UMass Wind Energy Center, has plenty of experience in the field of renewable-energy technology development. He worked as a science fellow in the U.S. Congress and as a technology fellow at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. He’s also a former employee of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. “I’ve worked in energy since 1984, in both the technical and policy sides.”

For the current phase of his professional life, “instead of taking a job with someone else, I basically decided to start up new companies,” he said, adding that he wants to be a catalyst to grow the clean-tech industry in the region as a whole, and he sees the Enterprise Center as an ideal home for those efforts.

“I thought, I want to be part of that. I want Scibelli to be my home base for doing this,” he told BusinessWest, noting that, in addition to SolaBlock, he’s launched a second company, Black Island Wind Turbines.

Michel views the startup as an ideal tenant at the SEC. “The state is trying to grow this cluster both in Massachusetts and also regionally, throughout New England. The Enterprise Center has been active in supporting the regional growth of clean tech through support for companies like Pat’s.

“We’re a multi-use facility, but our vision of the tech park is really to have more support for clean tech. It’s a great place to do business,” she added. “And SolaBlock is innovating in an industry that’s hungry for innovation.”

Quinlan said the Enterprise Center has been critical to landing the kind of support — like the MassCEC grant — necessary to take the next step.

“I was drawn to this like a moth to a flame; this is the exact kind of environment I needed to have,” he told BusinessWest. “Without that, it would have been just us trying to do our best, competing with everyone else trying to get the attention of those who could help us. [Michel] has taken half the effort out of that.”

Down the road, if all goes as planned, he expects to begin looking for manufacturing space so SolaBlock can start building the kits. And Quinlan believes a huge market exists for the product — again returning to the appeal of vandal-resistant PV units in urban areas where the risk of theft has hindered consideration of conventional solar systems. Specifically, all electrical equipment of value is located behind the wall, making the systems unattractive for dismantling. Yet, individual concrete blocks can be repaired with a replacement kit.

“We can also use it for brick replacement — replacing bricks on walls,” he said. “It’s pretty weatherproof and vandal-proof. It’s not like regular solar panels where people are afraid to put them up on the chance they could be vandalized or stolen. We have utility customers who are very excited about this.”

So is Quinlan, who believes not just in his idea, but in this region.

“I’m a very strong supporter of Western Mass.,” he said. “I went to school here, and I want to live here. What I want to do is provide a means for myself and my colleagues in clean tech to have a really good quality of life and good occupations right here in the Valley — and that is very possible.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Lessons Learned

Construction Sections

Schools Say Green Construction Benefits Students, Teachers

The new West Springfield High School is expected to be certified as a LEED Silver building when it’s completed.

‘Green’ is definitely the hot trend when it comes to school construction — and a new, comprehensive report suggests that the benefits are wide-ranging.

While businesses of all kinds are increasingly calling for more environmentally friendly, energy-efficient building designs — with many seeking certification from Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), a rigorous program of the U.S. Green Building Council — in many ways the education sector has been leading the way.

And, according to a report recently issued by McGraw-Hill Construction titled “New and Retrofit Green Schools: The Cost Benefits and Influence of a Green School on Its Occupants,” schools of all levels — elementary, middle, and high — as well as universities, report significant benefits from studying and working in green buildings — advantages that extend well beyond economics.

It’s an area ripe for study; McGraw-Hill characterizes the education-construction market to be at the “vanguard” of green building, estimating that 45% of total construction starts in the education sector in 2012 had green components — a sharp increase from 15%
in 2008. “And that estimate,” the authors note, “does not even include the full scope of work being done to green existing buildings through retrofits and green operations and maintenance.”

In Western Mass., the trend is pervasive. Many recent and ongoing high-school projects in the region — including new buildings for Easthampton High School, West Springfield High School, Longmeadow High School, and Minnechaug Regional High School, to name a few — feature significant green aspects, from photovoltaic energy production to extensive natural light to a building materials relatively free of toxins and respiratory irritants.

“What is driving this market?” the report asks. “Like
all other sectors, schools are driven by
the goal of saving money and energy. However, this sector is unique among all those studied by McGraw-Hill construction … because the impact of green buildings on the health and well-being of their students is as important as energy in encouraging new green investments. In fact, the level of green work is so high in this sector because many report seeing the financial, health and well-being, and productivity benefits that they seek.”

The new Longmeadow High School offers copious amounts of natural light among its features.

Indeed, two-thirds of the surveyed schools report that they have an enhanced reputation and ability to attract students due to their green investments. Meanwhile, 91% of K-12 schools and 87% of higher-education institutions state that green buildings increase health and well-being, while 74% of K-12 schools and 63% of colleges and universities report improved student productivity.

Additionally, 70% of K-12 schools and 63% of universities report that student tests scores increased in the wake of green construction. Employees are happier, too, as 83% of K-12 schools and 85% of university leaders report increased faculty satisfaction as a result of teaching in a green building.

Whatever the metric, there appears to be growing evidence that green building design is more than a fad in the educational world, but a trend with real long-term benefits.

Cost and Effect

When deciding to go green at their facilities, many businesses look first at the cost, and that’s no different for municipalities or colleges looking to erect school buildings. And a 2006 study conducted by Capital E, a national clean-energy and green-building firm, argues strongly for the fiscal benefits of such construction.

Its cross-country review of 30 green schools demonstrates that green schools cost less than 2% more to build than conventional schools — or about $3 per square
foot — but provide financial benefits that are 20 times as large. In fact, the report argues, that extra $3 pays off in $71 worth of ancillary financial benefits, from energy and water savings to asthma and flu reduction, to decreased absenteeism and greater teacher retention.

“Greening school design,” notes Gregory Kats, managing principal of Capital E, “provides an extraordinarily cost-effective way to enhance student learning, reduce health and operational costs, and, ultimately, increase school quality and competitiveness.”

He concedes that his report — co-sponsored by the American Federation of Teachers, the American Institute of Architects, the American Lung Assoc., the Federation of American Scientists, and the U.S. Green Building Council — doesn’t quantify every possible benefit of green buildings, including reduced teacher sick days, reduced maintenance costs, reduced insured and uninsured risks, increased state competitiveness, and others.

The recent McGraw-Hill study isn’t all-encompassing, either, but it does delve deeply into the question of how significantly a school designed to reduce its environmental impact on the world
can affect the health and learning abilities of its students, in ways ranging from reducing respiratory illnesses
and absenteeism to improving test scores.

“Given the complexity of interactions between people and their environments, establishing cause-and-effect relationships between an attribute of a green school and its occupants has been a challenge,” the report notes. But it does detail several possible benefits of a greener environment, including:

• Indoor air. Plenty of research exists to demonstrate that the health of children and adults can be affected by indoor air quality, and that increased particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), toxins, irritants, and allergens from mold can lead to respiratory illnesses and asthma.

On the other hand, good indoor air quality is typically marked by effective ventilation, filter efficiency, temperature and humidity control, and stricter operations, maintenance, and cleaning practices. For instance, in a 2002 study in Finland, researchers identified an average 15% reduction in the incidence of the common cold in schools that had no moisture or
mold problems. And according to researchers at Lawrence Berkely National Laboratories, when ventilation rates drop below minimum standards, student performance test results drop by 5% to 10%.

“Good ventilation is the most impactful way to protect lung health in a green school, but reducing and preventing the source of indoor air pollutants is another key area,” notes Janice Nolen, assistant vice president of National Policy and Advocacy for the American Lung Assoc., in the McGraw-Hill report.

“Indoor air pollution such as particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and irritants can originate from various sources indoors, such as building equipment, furnishings, flooring, and cleaning equipment,” she continues. “For example, it is important not to use cleaning supplies within schools that are going to cause irritations and breathing problems such asthma or chronic lung diseases.”

• Lighting. As recently as the 1970s and even the 1980s, the report notes, conventional wisdom held that lack of daylight, while irksome to some students, had no discernible impact on test scores. But since then, studies have shown that daylight can affect student health and learning.

Indeed, 48% of K-12 survey respondents and 56% of university leaders said increased access to natural light and outside views from their classrooms increased student engagement. Among other studies, one conducted by the Heschong Mahone Group in 1999 showed that students in classrooms well-lit by natural sunlight had 7% to 26% higher test scores over the course
of a year, compared with students in windowless classrooms.

• Thermal comfort. Recent research, McGraw-Hill notes, has begun questioning the prevailing thinking that keeping indoor temperature within a narrow band — typically the low to mid-70s — year-round is ideal. One recent study showed that student speed on a standardized test increased as a result of lowering the temperature from 77 to 68 degrees. Meanwhile, research conducted from the 1990s and onward suggest that teachers have a strong preference for personal control over temperature and see it as having an impact on student performance.

• Acoustics. Significant research has been undertaken to study how classroom design impacts the ability of students to hear, pay attention, and absorb information. Outdoor noise can be a negative factor as well; a recent study shows that students in a school under the regular flight path of an airport performed up to 20% lower on a reading test than children in a nearby school.

McGraw-Hill also cites research suggesting that a room’s acoustic and sound-insulation properties have a direct effect on speech intelligibility and, consequently, student learning. Of its survey respondents, 44% of K-12 schools and 51% of university leaders who included improved acoustics in their green projects reported better student attentiveness as a result.

Crunching the Numbers

According to the study, 74% of green K-12 schools are attempting to measure the impact of the building design on student health, but only 47% in higher education are doing the same. That might be because K-12 schools can more easily track metrics such as absenteeism, asthma complaints, and visits to the school nurse. Meanwhile, colleges and universities are more likely to glean data from student and staff surveys.

Of the K-12 respondents, 32% of schools said their green-building efforts have reduced absenteeism, while just 2% found an increase; 67% reported no change. However, of the participating schools that achieved the stricter LEED certification, 45% reported decreased absenteeism, and 44% of the buildings that received an Energy Star label reported the same.

The study noted that the connections between green building design and student health and performance are still being developed and aren’t nearly as clear as those that compare physical activity and health. “Studies show that 15% of school-age children are overweight, and this number is three times higher than it was in the late 1970s,” the report notes. “Unfortunately, there is insufficient data to attribute success to any particular solution that relates to school buildings.”

At the same time, McGraw-Hill notes that much more data is necessary to fill in the gaps and presumptions that have arisen around environmentally friendly construction. For example:

• More research is needed into the lack of adequate ventilation in America’s classrooms, even though the codes and practices of the HVAC industry have been around for a long time. More information is needed on how HVAC system designs and maintenance procedures impact air quality. Also, more research is necessary on how materials selection, such as those that include VOCs, affect student health and learning.

• There is a need for more performance-based design guidelines that can reliably produce excellent visual environments in terms of natural light. And, as an emerging technology now making its way into school buildings, light-emitting diodes, otherwise known as LED lights, warrant more intensive research.

• As new technology is developed and low-energy heating and cooling methods become prevalent in high-performance buildings, their potential impacts on student health and well-being need to be researched. At the same time, more information is needed concerning the ideal temperature in a classroom and what level of teacher control is warranted.

• Finally, more information is needed on the factors that go into the acoustic performance of a classroom, and how best to provide for the needs of hearing-impaired children in classrooms.

Still, the education world — and the architecture and construction industries — are taking notice. “Building healthy, high-performance school buildings is now far more fiscally prudent and lower-risk than building conventional, inefficient, and unhealthy school buildings,” Kats argues.

There are educational benefits as well, says Darryl Alexander, health and safety director of the American Federation of Teachers, in the McGraw-Hill report.

“We’ve heard from teachers that green schools have been useful as learning tools and allowed them to incorporate sustainability into the curriculum — teaching them, for example, how to measure and track energy use,” he notes. “Green roofs have allowed them to explain benefits such as reduced energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced stormwater runoff.”

But perhaps the most significant benefit is healthier — and more focused — children and young adults.

“Teachers, whether they know much about green schools or not, once they enter one of these buildings, they are excited because these schools are quite different from conventional school buildings,” Alexander says. “The natural lighting, the acoustics, the air quality and comfort really allow them to focus on their jobs more easily. It is amazing to watch.”

— Joseph Bednar

Creating Spaces