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Month: February 2018

MGM’s CFO Has, Well, a Wealth of Experience

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Courtney Wenleder says she can see a number of parallels between the MGM Springfield development and the work to rebuild in Biloxi, Miss. after Hurricane Katrina.

Courtney Wenleder says she can see a number of parallels between the MGM Springfield development and the work to rebuild in Biloxi, Miss. after Hurricane Katrina.

Courtney Wenleder was working in Las Vegas, as financial controller for the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, in the summer of 2005 when she was asked to step in and assist another property in the MGM portfolio, the Beau Rivage Hotel and Casino in Biloxi, Miss.

She happened to be back in Vegas for some meetings when Hurricane Katrina slammed into the region several weeks after her arrival, but she’ll never forget the flight back to the area five days later on one of the company’s corporate jets that received special clearance to fly into the devastated area.

“Flying over Biloxi, you could see the blue tarps everywhere,” she said, adding that the casino complex itself was closed for exactly a year and had to rebuild just as the region around it did.

“The community saw us as a kind of beacon of hope,” she recalled. “We committed to rebuild right away; people lost their homes and their jobs, and we played a big role in the recovery.”

Wenleder related that story as she started to explain what brought her to Springfield late last summer and, more specifically, to the role of vice president and chief financial officer for MGM Springfield.

While Hurricane Katrina was an exponentially larger natural disaster than the tornado that carved a path through Springfield almost seven years ago now, Wenleder can see a number of parallels between the two calamities and the two regions, especially when it comes to the role a casino complex can play in a devastated region.

And also in how rewarding it can be to be a part of such efforts.

“That experience in Biloxi was more than a job, more than just being a CFO in a casino,” she told BusinessWest. “It was helping the community, giving them hope, rebuilding, working as a team.

“The team that we had down there was incredible,” she went on. “When you go through something like that, you bond instantly; there’s no time for niceties, and ‘let’s just develop this relationship’; you become connected quickly.”

While different from the experience in Biloxi in many ways — the disaster is years in the rear-view mirror, not days — Wenleder says she can find many parallels to her current role with another team, the one that will open the $950 million MGM Springfield in roughly six months.

That’s why, when Mike Mathis, president and COO of MGM Springfield, first approached Wenleder, then the VP of Finance and CFO at the New York New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, about coming to the City of Homes three years ago, she almost immediately started giving it some serious thought.

There were several reasons why she eventually said ‘yes.’ There was that opportunity to be part of another community comeback story, if you will, but also a desire to get back to the East Coast (she was born and raised in Virginia), and the chance to open a new facility.

“Springfield was a pretty easy sell,” she explained. “I was looking for change — I had been at New York New York for nine years and wanted a new challenge — and the opportunity to have a job that meant more than building a property and running the financials.”

Although those are, obviously, big parts of her job description, as we’ll see.

For this issue and its focus on employment, BusinessWest talked at length with Wenleder about her role at top level of the leadership team at MGM Springfield, and also about why, as she said, this particular job involves much more than running financials.

On-the-money Analysis

Wenleder, one of the first members of the executive team hired last year (see story, page 15), said those letters CFO usually come complete with a lengthy and varied job description.

That’s especially true in the casino industry, where operations such as MGM Springfield have a number of components, myriad expenses, and (eventually, in the case of MGM Springfield) several revenue streams.

But at the end of the day, the job here, as it does everywhere, comes down to making sure the expense side doesn’t exceed the revenue side. (Although, when it comes to the Springfield casino, we’re going to need that word ‘eventually’ again because, at the moment, there are no revenues).

There’s no end to the expenses, though, said Wenleder, who said she’s trying to manage them the best she can.

“It’s quite stressful when you only have one side of the ledger,” she said with a laugh. “Managing the budget is difficult, especially when things come up that you didn’t anticipate, and there are plenty of those.”

One of the most pressing items on Wenleder’s to-do list is putting her own team together. For several months she was a one-person show, but over the past several weeks there have been a number of additions to the finance team.

But most of the hiring is still to come, obviously, she said, adding that, by the time MGM Springfield is ready to open, that finance team will number between 150 and 200 people.

They will be spread out across a number of departments, she noted, including purchasing; warehouse and receiving; inventory control; financial planning and analysis; those working in ‘the cage,’ meaning those handling money; the ‘counts team,’ individuals who pull money out of the slot machines and table games; casino finance (a compliance role); and a small accounting team. (Payroll, accounts receivable, and other functions are handled out of corporate offices in Las Vegas.)

It’s a big job, with big numbers, such as a projected $90 million in annual payroll alone for the Springfield facility, said Wenleder, adding that she does not yet have a budget or updated revenue projections for either the short year ahead (2018) or the first full year of operation to follow.

But she’s working on it — just as she’s working on a whole host of other aspects of the casino operation.

Such as staffing. That is the focus of much of the activity at 95 State St., and the goal is to come up with the right numbers across each of the various departments. Talks are ongoing as to just how many will be needed within each department, she said, adding that the goal, quite obviously, is not to overstaff or understaff. “There’s a balance there, and it’s important to get the right numbers.”

Other day-to-day work includes everything from financial analysis on potential partners, such as retail tenants, the movie theaters, and bowling alley, to setting of internal control drafting procedures related to the minimum standards set by the Gaming Commission.

While handling all that, Wenleder is thinking about that ‘beacon of hope’ aspect to this casino operation, the element that links it many ways to Biloxi, those blue tarps she saw while flying overhead, and the rewarding work of helping a community bounce back from adversity.

“That’s the element to this I really enjoy — engaging the community, helping people find jobs and improve their lives, training them on new skills, and, hopefully, bringing more vibrancy to the area, because other businesses will come because we’re here. There is that ripple effect.”

Watching the Bottom Line

She’s seen that ripple effect first-hand, in Biloxi and in Las Vegas, of course.

And she’s quite confident that there will be one here as well, and being one of the key drivers of that ripple effect is just part of what made Springfield the easy sell she described.

There won’t be anything easy about getting the doors open come September, but Wenleder is, by all accounts (that’s an industry phrase) well on top of things, thanks to a wealth of experience with these balancing acts.

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

New Projects Energize Palmer’s Neighborhoods

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Community Spotlight Features

Community Spotlight

Linda Leduc and Charlie Blanchard stand beside one of Palmer’s two new charging stations for electric cars.

Linda Leduc and Charlie Blanchard stand beside one of Palmer’s two new charging stations for electric cars.

In a neighborhood struggling to regain some momentum, any new development matters — no matter how humble.

Literally, in the case of Humble Pie, a restaurant with a façade as nondescript as its name and a farm-to-table ethos that has quickly won over locals since opening in December on Main Street in the Three Rivers section of Palmer.

“They’ve been getting excellent reviews, and people are literally standing in line,” said Town Planner and Economic Development Director Linda Leduc. “That’s good because it’s another catalyst to get other business owners and developers to invest in Main Street.”

It’s not the only new development in the neighborhood. The town has also transferred ownership of 2032 Main St. to South Middlesex Opportunity Council, which is renovating the top floor to apartments and the bottom to retail — a mixed-use plan that will both infuse new residents into the neighborhood while attracting more shoppers, said Town Planner Charlie Blanchard. “That rehabilitated building will hopefully attract other businesses to the area.”

Property and business owners in Three Rivers have been meeting for the past two years as part of a grass-roots revitalization effort, which includes changing the perception of the area and filling vacant storefronts. Discussions with residents have touched on ideas such as making the stretch more pedestrian-friendly, building a walking path with river access around the perimeter of Laviolette Park and upgrading the parking there, and expanding Hryniewicz Park, which is used for movie nights, concerts, and other events staged by the town’s recreation department and the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce. At the same time, the consortium known as On the Right TRACK (Three Rivers Arts Community Knowledge) has been working for some time to build a cultural and creative economy in the village.

Meanwhile, Pinocchio’s restaurant on Bridge Street in Three Rivers installed outdoor seating last summer, which turned out to be a popular option, said Leduc, adding that the eatery stuck out a tough period when the Red Bridge, which connects that area of Palmer with Ludlow and Wilbraham, was out of service for two years; it reopened in November.

“I know that hurt the entire village, and Pinocchio’s was definitely struggling,” she went on, “but now that it’s open, the whole village will benefit.”

Three Rivers is definitely on the move, she and Blanchard told BusinessWest — and other neighborhoods in Palmer are showing signs of positive activity as well.

Health Matters

Baystate Wing Hospital’s $17.2 million project to expand its Emergency Department, which is nearing completion, will better accommodate the needs of the community by supporting the current annual patient volume of 24,000 visits.

The 17,800-square-foot space will include separate ambulance and public entryways and will feature 20 patient rooms, including trauma, behavioral health, and other dedicated specialty-care areas. Private rooms will replace curtained bays to enhance patient privacy, and a dedicated space will be created for behavioral-health patients. Once the new building is completed, the current Emergency Department space, which was built in 1995, will be retrofitted for other uses,” according to Dr. Robert Spence, chief of Emergency Medicine for Baystate Health’s Eastern Region.

While that’s the largest medical development happening in Palmer, it’s far from the only one. Others include CrossFit Ardor, which moved from Brimfield to the Allen Block in Depot Village last year; a new massage-therapy and wellness center called Peaceful Paths on North Main St.; and an expansion of Palmer Animal Hospital on Thorndike Street. Speaking of animals, a new pet-grooming business known as Rufflections Dog Spa recently opened on Park Street.

Palmer at a glance

Year Incorporated: 1775
Population: 13,050 (2015)
Area: 32 square miles
County: Hampden
Tax Rate, residential and commercial: Palmer, $22.08; Three Rivers, $22.91; Bondsville, $22.75; Thorndike, $23.59
Median Household Income: $41,443
Median Family Income: $49,358
Type of government: Town Manager; Town Council
Largest Employers: Baystate Wing Hospital; Sanderson MacLeod Inc., Camp Ramah of New England; Big Y World Class Market
* Latest information available

Last year also saw the opening of the expanded, 4,000-square-foot Junction Variety Store in Depot Village, more than doubling its previous size. The store, which had sold beer and wine, now has a full package license, and owners Meena and Bharat Patel aim to lease some additional space for retail or office use.

In the Thorndike section of town, steampunk artist Bruce Rosenbaum and his wife, Melanie, moved into the former St. Mary’s Episcopal Church on Main Street, as both their residence and the new home for Mod Vic Steampunk Design. They have created a showroom and gallery in the historic space, as well as holding steampunk workshops for families. “He’s moving ahead with his work, and has pieces displayed in the sanctuary; it’s incredible,” Leduc said.

Finally, the new rail spur installed at Sherwood Lumber Yard, in the town’s industrial park — a project that has been in the works since 2013, and funded through an Industrial Rail Access Program grant — will allow the business to bring in materials by train, which will spur significant expansion of the operation, Blanchard said.

“It actually helps the entire industrial park,” Leduc said. “When trains would come in, they’d hold up the entire line, so that other deliveries weren’t getting into the park. “By having them have their own rail spur, now a train can come in and unload without that sort of interruption.”

Green Thoughts

Other recent business developments include a few ‘green’ businesses, in more than one sense of that word. One is the move of Gold Circuit E-Cycling from Ludlow to Third Street in Palmer, Leduc said. The four-person operation will not only do business in town — picking up and recycling used computer equipment, electronics, and refrigerated appliances, as well as recycling a host of other goods — but plans to develop a relationship with Pathfinder Regional High School’s work-study program.

The town will also see its 10th large-scale solar project this year, with the owner of a property on River Street leasing space to Borrego Solar for a 4.7-megawatt system, which will bring total production among the 10 sites to 29.3 megawatts.

Leduc said she gets calls every week about potential new solar developments, but if more are to be approved, the priority is to place them in remote areas where they won’t alter the town’s rural character and natural viewscapes.

Palmer has also given the green light to a growing industry in Massachusetts, approving its first medical-marijuana facility on Chamber Road, including a 25,000-square-foot greenhouse and 3,200 square feet of retail space. Altitude Organic Corp. will move its headquarters from Colorado to a property on Thorndike Street in Palmer as part of the development. “So they’re ready to invest in the town,” Leduc said.

Blanchard said the approval was partly driven by the fact that recreational marijuana is now on the horizon, expanding the market for growers, although the town currently has a moratorium on recreational-pot facilities as it decides on what types of ordinances and restrictions to put in place around such facilities.

Even last year’s total renovation of Town Hall — which included the expansion of the public meeting room; a new conference room and additional storage space; new offices for the Board of Health, Conservation Department, Building Department, and Veteran’s Agent; and new lighting, windows, and carpeting — had an ecologically friendly component.

“The town purchased two electric vehicles and had two charging stations installed at Town Hall and the library,” Leduc said, noting that they were funded by the state Department of Energy Resources’ Green Communities program. Particularly in the case of the library station, she noted, they will provide another opportunity for people, in this case electric-car owners, to explore town. “They’re probably going to charge for a couple of hours, which will give them the opportunity to explore Main Street, visit, go shopping, and grab something to eat.”

In other words, to take in a bit more of a town that’s constantly adding to its reasons to stick around.

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

A Region Comes Together to Support Evacuees from Puerto Rico

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RefugeesFeature0218b
Features

Storm Surge

Rosa Espinosa

Rosa Espinosa, director of Family Services at the New North Citizens Council

What happens when a family arrives in the Springfield area from far away, with no job, transportation, or living arrangements? What happens when hundreds come? That was the challenge — and certainly still is — wrought by Hurricane Maria, which devastated the island of Puerto Rico last fall and sent a flood of evacuees to the Western Mass. region. Efforts to help them find relief have been inspiring, but the needs remain great, and the path ahead far from clear.

When Holyoke High School opened its Newcomer Academy in August — a program that helps non-English speakers access classes taught in Spanish while getting up to speed on English — administrators had no idea just how timely the launch would be.

“Holyoke, for many years, has looked for alternative types of bilingual-education models, and even before the hurricane, we were seeing a lot of newcomers who needed time to build up their English-language skills,” said Ileana Cintrón, chief of Family and Community Engagement for Holyoke Public Schools.

‘The hurricane,’ of course, is Hurricane Maria, which devastated the island of Puerto Rico in September, prompting a mass exodus of displaced families seeking relief on the U.S. mainland. Western Mass. was a natural landing spot, with Puerto Rican cultural roots running deep in Greater Springfield; Holyoke, is, in fact, home to the largest percentage of Puerto Rican residents of any city outside the island itself.

That’s why 226 students whose families evacuated Puerto Rico in the wake of the hurricane enrolled in Holyoke schools shortly afterward; nearly 200 are still attending, with many families contemplating a permanent relocation to the Pioneer Valley. In Springfield, the number is close to 600.

“It was difficult at the height of it, but in the last few weeks it’s really dwindled down,” Cintrón said, noting that the school district was fortunate that HHS saw the most enrollees of the city’s 11 schools.

Ileana Cintrón


Iileana CintrÓn

“It was beneficial to us that Holyoke High School had opened the Newcomer Academy in late August and is able to provide students coming to the high school with Spanish-speaking support and access to content in Spanish,” she said. “It gives them hope they won’t lose a year. That’s what happened before — try to learn English and see where you’re at by the end of the year. Now they can keep up with math and science while still learning English, where before, it meant lost time and a lot of frustration.”

‘Frustration’ is an understatement when it comes to the needs of hundreds of families that have flocked to Greater Springfield since October, seeking housing, jobs, education, and, in many cases, the basic necessities of life that they suddenly could not access when Maria knocked out power, infrastructure, and key services throughout Puerto Rico.

“Many came with the bare minimum,” said Wilfredo Rivera, a volunteer with Springfield-based New North Citizens Council, one of the regional organizations busy receiving evacuees and connecting them with resources to find temporary relief in Western Mass. or, in some cases, start a new life.

He noted one family with a newborn who had medical records and discharge papers from the hospital, but were unable to procure a birth certificate — which is typically needed to access benefits here — before fleeing. “That’s just one example of what happens when people leave the island but don’t have time to gather their documents, or they don’t know what they’ll need here.”

New North Citizens Council meets advocacy and human-services needs on a daily basis, said Rosa Espinosa, director of Family Services, but its role — along with Enlaces de Familia in Holyoke — as one of two major ‘welcome centers’ for people displaced by the hurricane has been a challenge, albeit a gratifying one.

Wilfredo Rivera says each displaced family has its own story and unique set of needs.

Wilfredo Rivera says each displaced family has its own story and unique set of needs.

“We have our regular clients who come in every day,” she told BusinessWest, “but when the hurricane happened, that was an outrageous number of people coming in. But we were pretty resourceful, and some of the evacuees themselves were pretty resourceful; we learned from them as they learned from us.”

Rivera ticked off some of the more challenging cases, such as children and adults who fled with oxygen supplies, dialysis machines, or chemotherapy needs, and others who landed in an area hotel or motel — paid for by FEMA, but only for a limited time — without much money and no transportation, family in the area, or job prospects.

“The majority of services they needed were services we already provided — SNAP, MassHousing, employment resources, access to computers — so those things were in place,” he said, “but we were suddenly doing it on a much larger scale.”

The way they and others have done so — aided by a flood of donations to area organizations providing some of those resources and attention from local businesses looking to hire evacuees — has been a regional success story of sorts, but the work is far from over.

A Call Goes Out

Jim Ayres, president and CEO of the United Way of Pioneer Valley, said his organization was meeting very early on an evacuee-assistance strategy. Early on, Springfield and Holyoke designated the welcome centers as places to go to find out how to enroll a child in school, meet nutrititional needs, and get immediate health services. “Then there’s the underlying trauma piece and mental-health needs people may have. It takes a lot of coordination, a lot of logistical management.”

Rivera noted that every individual or family that comes to New North is handled on a case-by-case basis. “We don’t group people into categories. Every individual is assessed individually based on what their needs are.”

For example, “there’s a large group of people here for medical reasons — dialysis, cancer treatments, the types of things that require electricity,” he explained. “A lot of families did not want their kids to lose out on education, and that’s why they chose to come. Others lost their jobs. The majority who came have family here or know someone in the area; others were born here but grew up on the island, so they had some connection.”

Many are looking to stay for the long term, if not permanently, he added. That’s especially true of the families with children enrolled in school or those who needed critical medical services and prefer the treatment they’re getting in Western Mass. over what’s available right now on the island. “Those are the two biggest factors keeping people here. And a lot of them are employed already; they’re working and want to keep their jobs.”

Recognizing that critical needs exist both in Western Mass. and back in Puerto Rico, the Western Massachusetts United for Puerto Rico coalition, which came together shortly after the hurricane struck, has collected $180,000, with $80,000 going to the Springfield and Holyoke welcome centers, and $100,000 being divided equally between 10 organizations that do relief work directly on the island.

“My sense is a lot of them want to go back to their own homes,” Ayres said of the displaced families. “Whether that means six months, one year, five years, no one really knows at this point.

“This is in some ways more of a Western Mass. challenge than statewide. The state has been receptive as a whole, but it’s hitting Hampden County more than anywhere else,” he added, noting that the situation poses some unexpected budgetary dilemmas, particularly in the school systems. “The state compensation method is driven by your enrollment in October 1, which was just a few days before people started coming, so they’ve asked the state to look at the formula in a different way.”

Indeed, the Holyoke school system has hired more teachers and paraprofessionals to handle the surge, including five from Puerto Rico.

Jason Randall says many evacuees already have the skill sets MGM Springfield is looking for.

Jason Randall says many evacuees already have the skill sets MGM Springfield is looking for.

One challenge has been the arrival of families without school records in hand — a particular challenge for students with special-education needs, Cintrón said. Another is the requirement that seniors must have passed the MCAS exam to graduate, when the 10 seniors at HHS who transferred in because of the hurricane might been studying a much different curriculum on the island.

“The district is waiting for guidelines from the state about that,” she said, noting that one of those students was already accepted to Harvard while living in Puerto Rico — but will now need to pass the MCAS before enrolling there.

Another challenge is the emotional stress the new students are dealing with — Cintrón said it can take two years, in some cases, for such trauma to manifest outwardly — yet, she suggested school may actually be a bright spot in their lives.

“The major sources of stress deal with the lack of housing and the feeling of impermanence — stay at a hotel for a week, then stay with a grandmother for two weeks in public housing, but then find you can’t stay longer than that, and not always eating three meals a day. School may provide some sense of stability and normalcy — or, at least, we try.”

She was quick to note that the district took in 75 students from Puerto Rico last summer because of non-hurricane factors like economic hardship on the island, “so we’re used to getting those students. It was just more in the fall.”

Some students are also eligible for a dual-language program at the elementary level, said Judy Taylor, director of Communications for Holyoke Public Schools. “When students arrive at school, they’re given a language assessment test, and based on the results of that test, they’re given the supports they need.”

Living Wage

For most families, however, no support is more important than job-finding resources.

With that in mind, New North Citizens Council arranged a meeting in January with human-resources leaders at MGM Springfield, which is in the unique position, among area companies, of currently staffing up a 3,000-employee operation. Attendees were given an introductory presentation (in Spanish) detailing the company’s needs, followed by skills assessments and meetings with HR staff.

“We want to share our message about career opportunities, because 3,000 positions is a lot of roles to fill,” said Jason Randall, director of Talent Acquisition and Development. “So when New North came to us about these displaced families from Puerto Rico due to the hurricane, we wanted to share the opportunities that we have. Puerto Rico has a large hospitality industry, with casinos and resort properties, and a lot of individuals from the area who were displaced have the skill set and the commitment to service that we’re looking to provide here.”

The company is hiring for roles ranging from culinary services to hotel operations to gaming operations, and many evacuees have those skills, or the ability to learn them quickly, Randall added.

“Basic English is a requirement for all our positions — you have to be able to communicate in the event of an emergency — but certainly, through our partners, English as a second language courses are offered to prepare people for that.”

It can be tough to find a job without a car, and nigh impossible to afford a car with no income, but some evacuees are arriving with neither — and often no place to stay. Espinosa said getting them set up with housing and job prospects can be a challenging, step-by-step process, one beset with roadblocks that have the welcome-center staff thinking on their feet.

One client, for example, walked from the South End to the New North Citizens Council — more than two miles — with her children to access resources. But she needed to come back the following day, so the staff dipped in their pockets to buy her bus fare in both directions. The next day, Espinosa reached out to the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority for more passes to give to other families, and the PVTA was happy to donate them.

Employers have heard of the needs, too. Pride Stores had four openings at its West Street location in Springfield. “We were told, ‘I don’t need them to speak English; I just need them to bake,’” Rivera recalled. Other companies, from J. Polep Distribution Services and CNS Wholesale Grocers to businesses needing barbers, mechanics, and caregivers, have reached out with information about openings.

Companies have contributed to the relief cause in other ways as well, such as the 7-Eleven that recently opened at Wilbraham and Parker streets, far from the North End of Springfield, but decided nonetheless to donate raffle proceeds from its grand-opening event to the welcome center. Meanwhile, organizations like the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute are providing free legal services.

In addition, “there’s a huge group of volunteers helping to feed these families dinners,” Cintrón said. “Some are staying in hotels with no access to a fridge or microwave, so there’s a whole network of volunteers, restaurants, and soup kitchens delivering meals to the hotels.”

Espinosa is grateful for all of it. “Throughout this journey, we have met a lot of caring individuals, and it’s refreshing to hear from someone, ‘hey, I heard about the welcome center, and I want to do this for you.’ It’s a good feeling.”

And the clients who need help are grateful in return, she added. “They’re not a number to us; they’re a family in need, with medical needs, or with children with medical needs. And we’ll go the extra step; if we have to pick up furniture and bring it to a family over the weekend, we’ll do that.”

Looking Up

Rivera is clearly passionate about making a difference, in whatever way he and the other volunteers and staff can. “It’s good to know you were one tiny part of getting somebody stable.”

Espinosa takes it all in stride, understanding that New North’s work didn’t dramatically change with the influx of hurricane evacuees — it just got a little (OK, a lot) more hectic. But she knows her team is making a real impact on the lives of Puerto Rico’s evacuees.

“One told me, ‘there is God, and there are angels, and then there are you guys,’” she recalled.

Rivera simply smiled. “I’m good with that,” he said.

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

MassMutual Makes a Bold Statement

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Opinion

Editorial

It wasn’t so long ago when people were questioning MassMutual’s commitment to Springfield.

In fact, by last summer, the drumbeat that the financial-services giant was in some ways turning its back on the city were getting pretty loud.

That was after a number of workforce reductions and the departure of its Barings subsidiary, leaving considerable vacant space in Tower Square, and then the announcement that Tower Square itself, the office tower and retail center that MassMutual built nearly a half-century earlier, was going on the market.

The MassMutual company, which has had a presence in the city for more than 160 years, pretty much put all that speculation to rest on Thursday when it announced a major expansion in Massachusetts, including a $50 million expansion of its facilities in Springfield. The company will close its Enfield facility and move the 1,500 or so people there to Springfield; overall, the number of people the company employs in Springfield will rise from 3,000 to 4,500.

MassMutual is closing other offices in North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania, and plans to build a new Boston campus on Fan Pier that will employ about 500 people.

It’s not Amazon and its second headquarters facility (Boston is still in the running for that), but it’s major victory for both Massachusetts and Springfield.

Indeed, MassMutual’s bold announcement says a lot about the attractiveness of the Bay State as a home for business (it has gone a very long way toward losing the tag ‘Taxachusetts’), and also about its commitment to the city and its future.

On one level, the company’s moves come down to consolidating, cost-cutting, and making the most of its existing infrastructure. But it could have done this in many ways and in any one of several states and cities.

It chose the Bay State and Springfield for a host of reasons, from the quality of the workforce to incentives provided by the state, to a commitment to the city (Springfield) where it was founded.

Moving forward, this move will become still another strong selling point for Boston and the state as it pursues Amazon and a host of other corporate giants (it landed GE two years ago). And it will give Springfield something else to boast about as it continues its revitalization and prepares to move aggressively to tell that story to the rest of the world.

Like we said, those questions about MassMutual and its commitment to Springfield have been put to rest in dramatic fashion.

Elms College Names Katie Longley VP of Finance and Administration

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — College of Our Lady of the Elms has appointed accomplished higher education finance executive Katie Longley, CPA, of Abilene, Texas the college’s new vice president of Finance and Administration.

Reporting to the president, Longley, who will join Elms College March 26, will be responsible for the strategic oversight and management of the college’s financial resources and operations.

Longley comes to Elms from Abilene Christian University in Texas, where she currently serves as associate vice president of finance. She held successive positions as controller, tax director, and payroll manager, and senior accountant during her tenure with ACU. 

Prior to her work in higher education, Longley was in public accounting, working as an associate for Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, and then becoming a senior auditor for Davis, Kinard & Co. She holds a master’s degree in accountancy and a bachelor’s degree in business administration, both from Abilene Christian University. 

“I’m very thankful to have been chosen as the new vice president of Finance and Administration for Elms College,” Longley said. “I look forward to making the move to Western Mass. and serving the students, faculty, and staff in ways that contribute to the core values and the mission of the college.”

Longley fills the position vacated by Brian Doherty, MBA, who retired from the college earlier this year.

Balise Continues to Expand Its Portfolio of Facilities

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Autos Sections

On the Move — Always

The new car wash in West Springfield is the latest addition to an ever-growing portfolio of facilities for the Balise Auto Group.

The new car wash in West Springfield is the latest addition to an ever-growing portfolio of facilities for the Balise Auto Group.

As he talked about the very latest addition to the already-expansive portfolio for the Balise Auto Group, a car wash just off Riverdale Street in West Springfield, Jeb Balise said it was a capital-intensive, very necessary supplement to the collection.

Capital-intensive because car washes, as some might know but others might not, are now very sophisticated, computer-operated facilities offering an ever-greater array of wash options. And necessary because … well, consumers are becoming ever-more demanding, and, likewise, the auto business is ever-more competitive.

So auto groups like Balise need to respond with the proverbial ‘more’ and ‘better.’ ‘More,’ as in more products and services to offer those customers, and ‘better,’ as in better than the competition.

And this mindset reflects itself in everything from the company’s growing stable of car washes (there are now three, including two in Western Mass.) to the ongoing work to replace or renovate the group’s large roster of dealerships, including the Balise Nissan store a half-mile east of the car wash on Riverdale Street, to an insurance agency in Rhode Island as part of the mix.

“We’re making sure we’re giving the customer everything they want for support instead of just selling them a car,” said Balise as he talked about additions to the number of collision centers, used-car facilities, and more. “So if someone buys a car from us, they don’t have to worry about collision repair or getting their car cleaned or insurance; we can pretty much provide holistically everything they need for the life of that car.”

He offered those thoughts in an interview in one of the sales offices at Balise Nissan, the latest of the company’s dealerships to be replaced, or, in this case, given a huge makeover. Long operated under the name Jerry Rome Nissan, the facility now bears the Balise name.

Open for just over two months, the ‘new’ dealership was essentially gutted and rebuilt from the ground up, said Balise, adding that it is the first store selling this brand to incorporate new imagery and design elements developed by the carmaker.

The Nissan dealership on Riverdale Street now carries the Balise name. It’s the latest of the company’s dealerships to undergo extensive renovations or new construction.

The Nissan dealership on Riverdale Street now carries the Balise name. It’s the latest of the company’s dealerships to undergo extensive renovations or new construction.

“There was nothing left of the showroom — we stripped it right down to columns and roof, basically,” he explained. “We really rebuilt it, and you can feel it; you would never know it was a retro.”

That’s the word he chose for a dealership built in the ’80s and ’90s — before they became far more spacious (50,000 square feet in the case of the Toyota dealership, also on Riverdale Street), comfortably equipped, and customer-friendly.

As he talked about the Nissan store and offered a quick tour, pointing out its larger, revamped showroom and well-appointed service waiting area, Balise said there are a few minor touches to be completed before a grand opening can be staged — probably later this month.

And as those final touches are made, thoughts are already turning to what’s next, said Balise, adding that the company embarked on a massive campaign to make over facilities for all the brands it sells more than a decade ago, and there are still a few projects left to undertake.

One is the Balise Mazda facility on the other (north) side of Riverdale Street. Built in 1984, it is certainly showing its age, said Balise, adding that plans will be on the drawing board soon for either new construction or another extensive renovation.

Meanwhile, another nameplate in line to have a new home is Kia, which became part of the Balise stable in 2015 and has been housed in a small facility that was once a Mercedes dealership a decade ago.

Kia is a rising star in the auto galaxy, said Balise, adding that it has an attractive mix of cars, vans, and SUVs, and it will soon have a home befitting that status. Various options are currently being reviewed, and no formal plans have been announced, he went on, noting that both the Kia and Mazda facilities will be upgraded within the next 24 months.

“Our plans will be really impressive,” said Balise in reference to both projects, still in the developmental stage. “These will be either brand-new buildings or significant renovations — total change.”

As for the car washes, Balise said they are part of broader efforts to serve the full gamut of customer needs and provide additional layers of value.

The company started with a facility in Hyannis, where it also has several dealerships, then added one on East Columbus Avenue in 2016; the West Springfield location opened in January.

There are two more car washes on the drawing board for the next 24 months, said Balise, adding that the specific markets have not been identified.

The car washes offer ample evidence of consumers taking better care of their vehicles, but also of the value that auto groups are trying to provide.

Indeed, the car washes are strategically located to serve customers at the Balise dealerships (there are three on Columbus Avenue and a half-dozen on Riverdale Street), he noted.

Those who buy a car at any of the Balise dealerships get 60 days of free washes, he went on, and they also get special pricing on both everyday washes and the hugely popular ‘unlimited plans,’ whereby consumers can wash their car as often as they want for one monthly fee.

As for new dealerships, the company is always looking for new opportunities — in this market and others, he went on, adding that, despite an ongoing wave of consolidation within the industry, there are still a number of single dealerships and small groups that could be added to the portfolio if the conditions were right.

“Even with all the consolidation, it’s still a fragmented business,” he told BusinessWest. “The majority of facilities are owned by someone who might have two or three stores, or one store.

“We’re just focusing on the best-location, best-franchise philosophy,” he went on, and then making sure our facilities exceed the customers’ expectations.”

— George O’Brien

‘Partners’ Becomes Public Health Institute of Western Mass.

By
HealthcareFeature0218b
Health Care Sections

New Name, Evolving Mission

Jessica Collins and Frank Robinson say the organization’s mission to create a healthier community hasn’t changed, but is simply being honed and refocused.

Jessica Collins and Frank Robinson say the organization’s mission to create a healthier community hasn’t changed, but is simply being honed and refocused.

Partners for a Healthier Community recently initiates a rebrand, and is now known as the Public Health Institute of Western Mass., a name that officials say more accurately reflects what this agency has evolved into over the past 22 years and the critical role it plays within the region.

As she talked about a rebranding effort involving the agency now formerly known as Partners for a Healthier Community Inc. (PFHC), Jessica Collins said the project wasn’t initiated because the name chosen in 1996 didn’t convey what the nonprofit is or does.

Rather, it’s because the new name eventually chosen — Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts — and its accompanying logo do the job much better.

Indeed, while the agency is a partner in a number of initiatives to improve overall population health in the region, the original name didn’t convey the full breadth of its portfolio of services, said Collins, its executive director. Nor did it really define just what the ‘community’ in question happens to be.

Most importantly, though, it didn’t fully communicate the agency’s role as a change agent when it comes to the overall health and well-being of the communities it serves and especially those populations that are underserved.

So last fall, PFHC, working in cooperation with the marketing and advertising agency Paul Robbins & Associates, went about coming up something more accurate and specific.

The new name, which was unveiled at an elaborate ceremony at the agency’s offices within the Community Music School building in downtown Springfield, was chosen for several reasons that we’ll get into shortly.

First, though, we need to elaborate on why a rebranding was necessary at this time. Indeed, such initiatives are time-consuming, expensive, and bring change, an always tricky proposition, into the equation.

For starters, PFHC joined the National Network of Public Health Institutes in 2014, Collins said, adding that, as part of the process of joining that organization, the agency needed to identify its core competencies.

And for PFHC, those are research and evaluation, convening and coalition building, and policy and advocacy.

“Given those three core competencies, it felt natural to go with the Public Health Institute of Western Mass., coming from that national perspective,” Collins explained. “Also, there was some confusion about our organization because there are several agencies in the Greater Springfield area that have the word ‘Partners’ already in their title.”

What’s more, a rebrand provides an opportunity for an agency or business re-emphasize its mission, how it is carried out, its history, and its plans for the future. Or “reintroduce itself,” as Collins put it, adding that, for many, the institute needs no introduction, while for many others, it does.

The unveiling of the new name was part of that effort, she said, but there will be other initiatives to build awareness of the overall mission as well as specific projects, such as:

• The Springfield Youth Health Data Project, a health survey among Springfield public-school eighth-graders in 2015 and 2017. The project is part of a larger initiative that includes the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a tool developed by the Centers for Disease Control and administered to 10th- and 12th-graders in Springfield;

• Springfield Complete Streets, funded by a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Policies for Action Grant. The initiative involves a study of Springfield’s Complete Streets policy and, specifically, policies that support roadways designed and operated for the safety of everyone using them — whether by car, bike, foot, or bus;

• The Healthy Homes Initiative, which brings together housing and healthcare providers to pay for home improvements in Springfield specifically related to asthma control — mold and moisture remediation, pest control, ventilation and air quality, and removal of carpeting that harbors dust and other allergens — with the goal of keeping asthma sufferers out of the hospital;

• Springfield’s Climate Action & Resilience Plan. The institute is leading the outreach and engagement of residents and key stakeholders around implementation of a plan to make Springfield a resilient, healthy city; and

• Age-friendly City, an initiative that will create a senior leadership program to train older adults to be effective age-friendly community advocates, conduct an environmental scan on housing and transportation, and work toward achieving an age-friendly status for Springfield.

As those projects indicate, the agency has taken even more of that change-agent role, while also becoming more focused on the collection and implementation of the data that is critical when it comes to everything from enacting health-policy changes to winning critical funding for initiatives to improve the health and well-being of neighborhoods, a city, or an entire region.

PFHC needed a new name and logo that brought that message home, and Public Health Institute of Western Mass. does just that.

For this issue, we’ll talk a little about this rebranding effort, and a lot about the institute and the critical work it is undertaking across the region.

Bright Ideas

As mentioned, the new name comes complete with a new logo.

Actually, it’s a remake of the old logo, imagery of a sun. The new look is larger, brighter, and the sun rays, if you will, are aligned to replicate the lines on a bar graph — a nod to the agency’s dual missions to collect data and put that data to use to improve quality of life in the region.

“We had always done the coalition and advocacy building, but over the past few years we’ve really dug deeper into bringing expertise around research and evaluation,” Collins explained. “The new name and logo bring a more academic framing to the work that we’re doing.

“We want people to understand that we’re the place to come to if they want health data — if they want data that is highlighting inequities and, therefore, identifies populations that are in need of more attention and resources and investment,” she went on. “We want people to come to us if they have policy issues and need us to organize and create advocacy strategies, and we want people to come to us, as they always have, if they have new and innovative ideas or if there are gaps and issues that need to be convened around.”

All of this comes across in the new name, where each word or phrase carries some significance: ‘public’ for obvious reasons; ‘health’ (it’s in red while the rest of the words are in black on the letterhead); ‘institute,’ which conveys research and data; and ‘Western Massachusetts,’ because the agency needs to make clear that its work extends well beyond Springfield.

Also, there is a subtitle, ‘Partners for Health Equity,’ which brings home the point that the institute partners with other entities on all of its initiatives, and that its work is focused on making sure that all those in the region have an equal opportunity for a healthy life, regardless of where they live.

While the words and the logo are certainly significant, what’s behind them is what the agency is working to emphasize with this rebranding.

And as we commence that discussion, it’s probably best to go back to the beginning. That was in 1996, when a group of area healthcare leaders, led by Sr. Mary Caritas, then retired from her role as president of Mercy Hospital (now Mercy Medical Center), sought creation of a new public entity focused on improving health and well-being in Greater Springfield.

The goal back then was to create a space where competing health organizations and other entities, including the city of Springfield, could sit at the same table and work together to make the community a healthier place, said Frank Robinson, vice president of Public Health and Community Relations at Baystate Health, who was one of those on the ground floor, if you will.

“With that ambitious agenda, the notion was, ‘what are the things that need to be changed? What’s interfering with a good portion of the Springfield population living healthy lives?’” Robinson explained. “That social-justice framework was at the root of the organization’s inception, and it has maintained that viewpoint.”

The mission has always been to create a measurably healthier community, he continued, putting heavy emphasis on that word. And while the mission hasn’t really shifted, what has happened over the past 21 years is that the focus and the interventions have become more precise, more targeted.

“And with that additional precision and targeting, we’ve become more of a specialist than a generalist,” Robinson explained. “The general work is still occurring, but the specialty work is really taking center stage.”

The agency’s broad role has shifted somewhat as well, he went on, from being merely a supporter of various coalitions to a being a change agent in its own right.

This is reflected in some of the success stories the agency has helped write over the years, including:

• The BEST Oral Health Program, which created a local system of education, screening, and treatment for preschools to decrease instances of oral diseases;

• The Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition, created to improve asthma management and indoor air quality (two Springfield schools received national recognition for the program, and Holyoke Public Schools adopted similar policies in 2017);

• A “Health Impact Assessment on the Western Massachusetts Casino,” a 2013 study that highlighted the health impact of vulnerable populations and increased community understanding of these potential impacts;

• Live Well Springfield. Undertaken in partnership with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, the project is designed to improve access to health eating and active living opportunities. Signature projects undertaken as part of the initiative include the formation of the Springfield Food Policy Council, the sucessful, seven-year Go Fresh Mobile Farmer’s Market, and policies such as zoning, community gardens, and Complete Streets ordinances; and

•The YEAH! (Youth Empowerment Adolescent Health) Network, which engages diverse community stakeholders who work together to create a proactive, comprehensive response to adverse adolescent sexual health and adolescent sexuality. Between 2004 and 2015, there were significant reductions in teen birth rates in Springfield and Holyoke, and work continues to address inequities.

Data Driven

But it is in the collection and use of data that the agency has seen the greatest movement when it comes to its mission and how it has evolved over the past decades.

Indeed, as the nation, the region, and area healthcare providers continue a shift toward population health — keeping residents healthy as opposed to simply treating them when they are sick — data becomes critical, said Robinson.

Elaborating, he said providers, advocates, legislators, and, yes, foundations administering grant money use data to identify problems and where, specifically, they are occurring. But they also use it to create responses to the issues identified by this data.

The agency focuses on population data, which often comes from the state Department of Public Health, Collins explained, adding that it also works with the Springfield public schools to generate data on a large, diverse population.

“And we are able to tease out whether issues are at a block level, a neighborhood, a census track, a city, or county,” Collins explained. “We’re able to analyze data and create the story of what is going on in our region; we’re able to localize the data so people here can understand it and take action.”

Perhaps the best recent example of this is the so-called Healthy Hill Initiative, a broad-ranging effort to improve the health and well-being of those in Springfield’s Old Hill neighborhood, a program that earned the participating partners (and there were many of them) a Healthcare Heroes award (the new recognition program launched by BusinessWest and HCN) in the category of ‘Collaboration in Healthcare.’

“Their plan of action was driven by data provided to them around block groups within that neighborhood concerning health-status indicators such as asthma, obesity, public safety, and more,” Robinson explained. “Mapping that information helped to target the interventions and support the plan; the community organizing is data-driven in the sense that they’re using the data to inform both the intervention and whether they made a difference.”

Another example would the Springfield Health Equity Report, issued in 2014, said Collins, adding that the agency stratified data by race and ethnicity.

“So when you look at an issue like cardiovascular disease, or obesity, or teen-pregnancy rates, having this stratified data is critical,” she explained. “When you look at state-wide rates for teen pregnancy, for example, everyone’s thrilled because the state rate has come down considerably.

“But if you really look at the data and stratify it by race and ethnicity, you’ll see that the white-girl teen-pregnancy rates have gone down significantly, and so have teens of color,” she went on. “But you still see an incredible inequity and disparity between the two populations, and that’s what we try to lift up and shine a light on, so we’re not all clapping and saying ‘our job is done’ — there are still specific populations that need more resources and investment.”

The only way specific coalitions battling health issues ranging from asthma to obesity to teen pregnancy can determine if they are making an impact — and the desired impact — is through this data, Collins went on, adding that this reality not only explains the new name and logo, but, more importantly, where her agency’s emphasis will be moving forward.

Name of the Game

As Collins noted, there were several motivating forces behind this rebrand.

There was an effort to stem confusion given all the agencies with ‘Partners’ in their name, but also the need to better communicate just how much the agency had evolved into a true change agent since it was created in 1996.

But there was also that desire to reintroduce area residents, officials, and other constituencies to the important work it carries out, and to remind all of them that there is considerable work still to do.

So, to that rhetorical question, ‘what’s in a name?’ or, in this case, a new name? Plenty — and it is, for lack of a better term, a healthy exercise.

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

Technology Expands to Help Seniors Age in Place

By
Health Care Sections

Secure Connections

The Baby Boom generation isn’t just marching into retirement — they’re positively surging into their senior years, with some 10,000 Americans reaching age 65 each day.

Yet, despite the fact that senior-living communities have become increasingly modernized, specialized, and resident-focused, nearly 90% of seniors want to stay in their own homes as they age, according to the American Assoc. of Retired Persons.

And technology is helping them do just that — everything from home-monitoring devices to GPS trackers (for loved ones with dementia); from medication reminders to automatic stove turn-offs, and more . All of it is intended to lend both security to seniors living alone and peace of mind to their loved ones.

Older Americans welcome the trend — according to the AARP survey, even if they begin to need day-to-day assistance or ongoing healthcare during retirement, 82% would still prefer to stay in their own homes. Yet, the stereotype often lingers of seniors being technophobes averse to change.

“Many Boomers disagree with that statement, finding it insulting or pessimistic or both,” writes Laurie Orlov, principal analyst for Aging in Place Technology Watch, a market-research organization that provides analysis and guidance about technologies and services that enable seniors to remain longer in their home of choice. “They will repeat plaintively that Baby Boomers are very different than their parents’ generation. They are comfortable with technology. See how many have smartphones — they text, use Facebook and YouTube. Many book travel online, read Trip-Advisor reviews, and even call for car pickups with an app.”

So why not embrace technology meant to improve quality of life and — just as important — independence? Especially, Orlov noted, when there are so many options, from a simple door sensor or a sophisticated whole-home automation and security system.

In the case of the former, simple technology can have profound results. “If an older adult is alone at home, enters a room, and does not return past the sensor, an alert is sent to a family member or other predefined organization, thus enabling an attempt to contact the older adult, and, if no answer, to dispatch help.”

Rachel Walker, an assistant professor in the UMass Amherst College of Nursing, has focused much of her research on addressing health disparities and the care of older adults with cancer and other serious illnesses. She’s also on the faculty for the Center for Personalized Health Monitoring (CPHM), one of three centers that make up the Institute for Applied Life Sciences at UMass Amherst, one that aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of low-cost, wearable, wireless sensor systems for personalized healthcare and biometric monitoring — but always with a focus on the human side of care.

“Oftentimes in the national news, there’s a lot of focus on the technologies — things like wearable sensors and home health monitors,” she explained. “A lot of clinicians and practitioners like myself work with individuals out in the community who experience these health challenges as they age, and there aren’t too many places that merge those two ends of the spectrum.”

Through the Wires

One reason technology isn’t an end-all, Walker said, is because, while 90% of older adults prefer to stay in place, it’s a bigger challenge in the more rural areas of Western Mass., where people may not have access to broadband and high-speed wireless service.

“That’s a sticky wicket. We’re embracing technology more and more, in this digital arena where people also expect to access their health record [electronically]; all these things are on the horizon, but we have whole communities in this region that have yet to get high-speed access.

“The team I work with, we would like to develop solutions that put control back in the hands of actual individuals and their caregivers,” she went on, adding that they’re using grant funds to develop a home-assessment tool that’s compatible with people’s smartphones. “Most users, even in places without high-speed wireless, have access to smartphones.”

Susan Keel, an aging-in-place specialist, recently told HGTV that a robust whole-home security system can be installed for the same cost as one month in an assisted-living facility. “With a system like this, you can remotely log in on a smartphone or the Internet, and, via the devices connected to the system, monitor your loved one’s activities.”

On a smaller scale, Orlov said personal emergency-response systems — wearable devices that can be used to alert outsiders of a health emergency or fall — is currently a $3 billion market that has evolved only slightly from its origins. But one important advance has been their use outside the home.

“The ‘I’ve fallen’ message is still inspiring families and seniors to acquire one. But 30% of the market’s sales are for mobile devices. This makes sense in this time of substantial life expectancy at age 65, when 46% of women aged 75+ live alone,” she notes. “Mobility demands mobile devices, which in turn boost confidence to be out and about. Consider walking the dog — since one-third of the 65+ population has one.”

The Center for Personalized Health Monitoring consolidates expertise from polymer science and engineering, computer science, kinesiology, and neuroscience as well as from other departments and collaborators, such as the UMass Medical School and industry, to develop solutions that consider the whole person, not just technology, Walker told BusinessWest.

For example, “we’re trying to better understand what specific exercises older adults can do to improve their lower-extremity balance and strength, so they don’t have as much risk for falls,” she explained.

At the same time, however, “we’re working on home sensor networks to determine how people are using the space, so we can optimize their environment. We’ve also focused on some of the data-security problems, to make sure information is kept secure from hackers.”

In short, Walker said, there’s plenty of room for technology to help people understand their environment and manage chronic conditions and symptoms, such as fatigue and sleep impairments that, if not addressed over time, can wear the body down and lead to other types of disability. “We try to avoid that so people can stay in their homes as long as possible as they continue to age.”

Human Touch

As amazing as it is, technology doesn’t have all the answers, writes elder-care specialist Michelle Seitzer at Care.com.

“It should never be used to supplement actual caregiving — only enhance it. Certain situations may require a caregiver’s assistance or physical presence (be it a family member, neighbor, or a senior-care aide) for a few hours a week, overnight, or most of the day.

“There may also come a time when it’s just not safe for your loved one to stay home — no matter how many webcams you install,” she continues. “If a senior doesn’t answer the phone, seems withdrawn, falls frequently, misses medications, or wanders off regularly, you may need to look beyond technology. Think about options like hiring a home-care aide or finding senior housing. Figure out what works best for your loved one and the situation, and be open to changes along the way.”

Walker said her team at UMass focuses on concepts of dignity, capability, and healthcare equity in the senior years, and not on technology for its own sake.

“Any time we start a new project, we ask if there is really a need for this technology or new device. Are we building something people really need? Secondly, how will it fit into the life of the person it’s designed for? Also, who’s been left out? A lot of technology is built for the upper middle class, and that’s certainly a need, but we need to make sure what we’re building doesn’t systematically exclude certain individuals like rural residents, with no high-speed wireless access.”

Then there are unintended consequences. “Are we making someone reliant on a device, so if something breaks on the device, they’re left without a safety net to get their needs met?”

It’s an important question to keep in mind as the worlds of elder care and technology continue to cross-fertilize in new, intriguing ways.

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following business certificates and trade names were issued or renewed during the months of January and February 2018.

AMHERST

Capital Market Team
71 Country Corners Road
James Linfield

BELCHERTOWN

DuPuis Farm
734 George Hannum St.
Robert DuPuis

Everett Avenue Condominiums
21 Everett Ave.
James Moran

J. Fuller Locksmith
81 North St.
John Fuller Jr.

JL Construction
22 Mercier Dr.
Jason LaFleur

LeClerc & Son Forestry & Logging
91 Rockrimmon Road
Roland LeClerc

Ragaey M. Gobrial
209 Federal St.
Ragaey Gobrial

Sue Fay’s Salon
44 Stebbins St.
Suzette Fay

CHICOPEE

Comfy Cozy
57 Amherst St.
Nichole Bullock

Mike’s Clock Shop
81 Stedman St.
Michael Harry

RD Construction
32 Harding St.
Denis Rotar

Signature Hair and Threading
1889 Memorial Dr.
Asha Patel

Used Tire Maxx
519 Front St.
Moshe Ronen

DEERFIELD

Arts and Antiques on 5 & 10
717 Greenfield Road
Brickett Allis, Danielle Marie

Mycoterra Farm
75 Stillwater Road
Julia Coffey

EASTHAMPTON

Cynthia Apple, Hairdresser
121 Main St.
Cynthia Apple

Earth Clan
37 Franklin St.
Sarah Zazzaro-Williams

Parsons Street Press
61 Parsons St.
Erica Flood

Sharp
121 Main St.
Rachael Boido

Wood Crafts by Renée
13 Gula Dr.
Renée Hill

EAST LONGMEADOW

Sonic Urgent Care
406 North Main St., #170
Osazee Osagie

HADLEY

Foreign Auto Haus
12 Russell St.
Jeremy Ober

Hampshire Crossfit
220 Russell St.
Robert Migliaccio

Horton Tank Graphics
47 East St.
Arthur Lawson

Megan’s Valley Garden
8 Mill Valley Road
Brenda Fydenkevez

Mullins Center
200 Commonwealth Ave.
Global Spectrum FBD

Restore Physical Therapy
220 Russell St.
Patricia Young

Seymour Interior Decorating
9 Maplewood Terrace
Jennifer Seymour

Taco Bell
248 Russell St.
GF Enterprise, LLC

This and That Design
261 River Dr.
Pamela Hague

Time Out
341 Russell St.
Namco USA Inc.

HOLYOKE

Davans
245 Main St.
David Rodriguez

Glaze N Glory
532 Main St.
Shawna Rohan

Taylor Rental
14 Shawmut Ave.
Richard Clark Jr.

LONGMEADOW

Brais Builders, LLC
93 Westmoreland Ave.
Matthew Brais

LUDLOW

Butler Carpet Cleaners
23 Cady St.
Stephen McQueen

Garden Designs by Jacqueline
451 Miller St.
Jacqueline Clark

Pioneer Valley PDR
7 Circuit Ave.
Stephen Nodurf

NORTHAMPTON

Athol Media Co.
115 Conz St.
Michael Rifanburg

The Center for All Men and Sexual Health
40 Main St., #103
Jassy Casella-Timberlake

Daily Hampshire Gazette
115 Conz St.
Michael Rifanburg

Groundings
7 Main St.
Lauren Pacosa

Happy Valley
177 Main St.
Nancy Cowen

Kathleen Doe Creative Design
39 Garfield Ave.
Kathleen Doe

Measured Marketing Lab
152 Crescent St., Box 144
Christopher Chaput

Shop Therapy
189 Main St.
Ronny Hazel

Tim’s Used Books Inc.
90 King St.
Timothy Barry

PALMER

Cumberland Farms
1468 North Main St.
Cumberland Farms Inc.

Day & Night
1456 North Main St.
Karl Williams

Fancy Nails
1035 Thorndike St.
Diem Ndoc Nguyen

Jeffrey Ferreira Construction
2 Norbell St.
Jeffrey Ferreira

SOUTHWICK

ABC Masonry & Waterproofing
32 North Longyard Road
David Turner

Tasos Family Trust
5 Hummel Lane
Anastasios Karathanasopoulos

Valley Brook Restoration Group
299 College Highway
Douglas Seymour

SPRINGFIELD

Bakana Express Courier
5 Harbour Road
Joe Amoakah

Baked
196 Jasper St.
Yahaira Morales

Blazzin Pix
104 Lyons St.
David Torres

C.J. Pohner Home Improvement
215 Edendale St.
Christopher Pohner

David and Sons Transport
69 Clayton St.
David Hemmings

Dino’s Auto Repair
136 Nursery St.
Misael Colon

E & M Construction Service
19 Eddy St.
Egidio Morales

Eastfield Vapes
1655 Boston Road
Maxx Vapors Inc.

Ellectivity
80 Carver St.
Terrell Anthony

Focus
191 Chestnut St.
Fort Orange Claim

Focus Adjusters
191 Chestnut St.
Fort Orange Claim

Fort Orange Claims Unlimited
191 Chestnut St.
Fort Orange Claim

Frankie Painting
74 Mill St.
Frankie Santiago

Glamour Hair & Nail Salon
23 Hamburg St.
Francisco Rivera

Gonzalez Discount
2924 Main St.
Pedro Gonzalez

Medina Express
83 Clantoy St.
Victor Medina

MGM Springfield
1 MGM Way
Blue Tarp

Micro Scalp Clinic
143 Main St., Suite 104
Lord Smith

Pinguinos Construction
221 Hancock St.
Sadi Gonzalez

Price Cutter Inc.
2633 Main St.
Syed Shabib Ahsan

RLF & Assoc.
127 Carnavon Circle
Rickford Fraser

Skyline Maids
1188 Parker St.
Julio Cordero

VIP Spa
1704 Boston Road
Tommy Nguyen

Valley Blue Sox
100 Congress St.
Alfred Ciaglo

WESTFIELD

Advanced Quality Exteriors
18 Shepard St.
Vladimir Krylov

Beauregard Remodeling
286 Notre Dame St.
Beauregard Remodeling

CBD413
13 Dubois St.
Andrew Carmel

County Barber Shop
6163 School St.
David Munoz

Elite Tanning by Jennifer Amy
16 Union Ave., Suite 101
Elite Tanning by Jennifer Amy

Florek Family Farm
840 Granville Road
Christopher Florek

Hickory Hill Farm
325 Montgomery Road
Dennis Bishop

Krew
14 Turnpike Industrial Road
Robert Kraus

Linda Z. Gallo
45 Meadow St.
Linda Zomek-Gallo

Richards Fine Jewelers
461 East Main St.
M. Anthony Diamonds, LLC

Shea’s Barbers
243 Elm St.
J. Shea Enterprises

Van Sickle Custom Carpentry
22 Highland Ave.
Van Sickle Custom Carpentry

WEST SPRINGFIELD

AG Remodeling
45 Althea St.
Aleksander Glib

ATC Group Services, LLC
73 William Franks Dr.
Tanya Smith

ATF Cleaning Services
97 Ashley Ave.
Abraao Teixeira

DMP Supply Co. Inc.
759 Memorial Ave.
Donald Del Buono

Double J Western
1472 Riverdale St.
Brenda Hodge

Evergreen Events
67 York St.
Kristina Olberg

Liz’s Hair Care
242 Westfield St.
Elizabeth Porter

Mercy Companions
2112 Riverdale St.
Trinity Home Health

Mercy LIFE
2112 Riverdale St.
Trinity Health PACE

Mike’s Transportation
35 Kings Terrace
Michael Gagnon

Real Estate Transactions

By
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

22 South St.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Alexander F. Fiorey
Seller: Paul W. Allis
Date: 01/24/18

BUCKLAND

86 Main St.
Buckland, MA 01330
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Nancy Perry-Shinn
Seller: Edward M. Cahill
Date: 01/22/18

Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Gordon M. Glier
Seller: D&S Village Rentals LLC
Date: 01/16/18

COLRAIN

82 Christian Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Thomas M. Urell
Seller: Diane E. O’Donnell
Date: 01/25/18

21 Heath Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Brian D. Godin
Seller: Heather Staas
Date: 01/26/18

CONWAY

1230 Main Poland Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Sean L. Bowden
Seller: Anita Elise Rymer 2006 TR
Date: 01/26/18

641 North Poland Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Arieh Blowers
Seller: Douglas Blowers
Date: 01/26/18

936 South Deerfield Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $117,200
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Edward W. Matus
Date: 01/24/18

DEERFIELD

470 Greenfield Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Bittersweet Bakery & Cafe
Seller: Philip J. Savage
Date: 01/17/18

Mill Village Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: John G. Savage Realty Corp.
Seller: Dorothy H. Rosario
Date: 01/19/18

555 River Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: John E. Davis
Seller: Michael M. Fisher
Date: 01/23/18

102 Sugarloaf St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Trademark At Sugarloaf
Seller: Diane M. Lilly RET
Date: 01/19/18

104 Sugarloaf St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Trademark At Sugarloaf
Seller: Diane M. Lilly RET
Date: 01/19/18

GREENFIELD

1003 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $167,500
Buyer: Nathaniel Desroches
Seller: Carl T. Hoynoski
Date: 01/24/18

9 Bowles St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: James Richards
Seller: John B. Dunphy
Date: 01/26/18

31 Cedar St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $144,000
Buyer: Patrick Cote
Seller: Bruno INT
Date: 01/19/18

234 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Patrick Varner
Seller: Myra Tucker TR
Date: 01/19/18

118 Maple St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $179,500
Buyer: Stephen N. Ross
Seller: Catherine M. Letourneau
Date: 01/16/18

91 Montague City Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Elinor Janvrin
Seller: Theresa L. Holmes
Date: 01/18/18

241 Wells St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $189,900
Buyer: Robert D. Ryan
Seller: Charlene James
Date: 01/16/18

LEVERETT

118 Long Plain Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $214,250
Buyer: Susan B. Lloyd
Seller: Christal Cutler
Date: 01/23/18

MONTAGUE

10 Gunn Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Christopher K. Newman
Seller: Henry Komosa
Date: 01/24/18

468 Millers Falls Road
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Corey M. Sutton
Seller: Michael P. Fahey
Date: 01/26/18

20 Morris Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Cody R. Wells
Seller: Keith Mildren
Date: 01/26/18

27 Park St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Christian T. Bowman
Seller: Steven Keyes
Date: 01/26/18

NORTHFIELD

68 Capt. Beers Plain Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Jennifer C. Coleman
Seller: Christina M. Flynn
Date: 01/18/18

438 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Peter Moretti
Seller: Hanrahan IRT
Date: 01/19/18

447 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $221,000
Buyer: Amanda L. Knox
Seller: Herman W. Clark
Date: 01/19/18

515 Orange Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: David Skorupa
Seller: James A. Cullen
Date: 01/25/18

ORANGE

161 Drew Blvd. #23
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $259,900
Buyer: James P. Gebo
Seller: Verne Goldsher
Date: 01/22/18

25 Fairman Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Cherish A. Eastman
Seller: Pamela E. Harris
Date: 01/24/18

31 James Lane
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Omar Laza
Seller: Derek Catrambone
Date: 01/25/18

335 North Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $204,000
Buyer: Barbara A. Schneller
Seller: Tracy A. Clarke
Date: 01/19/18

526 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Michael J. Verock
Seller: James P. Gebo
Date: 01/22/18

SHELBURNE

28 Severance St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Krunal Y. Patel
Seller: FNMA
Date: 01/17/18

WARWICK

212 Old Winchester Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $212,500
Buyer: Emily L. Hemingway
Seller: Charles E. Lisowski
Date: 01/19/18

WHATELY

Egypt Road #C
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Marc-Alan Labreque
Seller: Walter R. Thayer
Date: 01/23/18

17-21 River Road
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $461,000
Buyer: Ashlee B. Haslett
Seller: Mary Lou Green RET
Date: 01/16/18

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

45 Cecile St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Audrey Suskind-Decosmo
Seller: Ryan J. Roberts
Date: 01/26/18

32 Coronet Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Conant
Seller: Edna J. Willets
Date: 01/19/18

107 Coronet Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Robert Landauer
Seller: Martin J. Andruss
Date: 01/26/18

53 Farmington Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $523,000
Buyer: Alyssa M. Luszcz
Seller: Hillside Development Corp.
Date: 01/26/18

79 Farmington Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Vyacheslav Babinov
Seller: Hillside Development Corp.
Date: 01/26/18

11 High Meadow Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $280,285
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Nichole D. Salvi
Date: 01/25/18

45 Lango Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Yuri G. Grechka
Seller: PBI Inc.
Date: 01/19/18

5 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $2,250,000
Buyer: Crossroads RT
Seller: Grand Run Holdings 1 LLC
Date: 01/25/18

9-11 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $2,250,000
Buyer: Crossroads RT
Seller: Grand Run Holdings 1 LLC
Date: 01/25/18

291 River Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $232,500
Buyer: Jessica Dominik
Seller: Joseph M. Pafumi
Date: 01/26/18

44 Royal St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Ann M. Trexler
Date: 01/17/18

4-28 Southwick St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $2,250,000
Buyer: Crossroads RT
Seller: Grand Run Holdings 1 LLC
Date: 01/25/18

28 Spruce Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $363,000
Buyer: Frances G. Marthone
Seller: Deborah A. Duquette
Date: 01/26/18

BRIMFIELD

31 Echo Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $149,600
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Tonia L. Jacque
Date: 01/17/18

51 Knollwood Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $148,035
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: David G. Kindberg
Date: 01/26/18

74 Monson Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Calvin G. French
Seller: Christopher S. Elmore
Date: 01/16/18

280 Warren Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Steven R. Prest
Seller: Richard H. Phifer
Date: 01/16/18

CHESTER

27 Lyman Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Sarah A. Primack
Seller: William J. Guazzo
Date: 01/26/18

CHICOPEE

1103 Burnett Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Donna Rutkowski
Seller: Duprey, Edmund F. Jr, (Estate)
Date: 01/25/18

75 Charles St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Eliezer Burgos
Seller: Andrey Katalnikov
Date: 01/18/18

Dianna Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $231,000
Buyer: Steven W. August
Seller: Sodi Inc.
Date: 01/16/18

619 Granby Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: David M. Bouthilette
Seller: Gary F. Isabelle
Date: 01/22/18

45 Marion St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $137,000
Buyer: Brian J. Kolodziej
Seller: M&T Bank
Date: 01/17/18

762 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Gabriel Reyes
Seller: Jennifer L. Steil
Date: 01/26/18

1774 Memorial Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $225,500
Buyer: Alejandra Torres-Ortiz
Seller: Propcity LLC
Date: 01/24/18

49 Oakwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: Lucas Rosa
Seller: Michelle L. Vieu
Date: 01/26/18

193 Saint James Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Church Of God House
Seller: Order Of Ahepa Altis Chapter
Date: 01/22/18

447 Springfield St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Apurv Realty LLC
Seller: Aura LLC
Date: 01/25/18

EAST LONGMEADOW

13 Acorn St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $127,500
Buyer: Hayley E. Durand
Seller: Plumtree Associates Inc.
Date: 01/22/18

3 Bettswood Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $184,935
Buyer: Stephanie J. Peterson
Seller: Kenneth A. Peterson
Date: 01/19/18

139 Brookhaven Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Tiffany Holmes-Sears
Seller: Evert O. Lindgren
Date: 01/24/18

16 Fields Dr. #16
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Eric L. Berg
Seller: DR Chestnut LLC
Date: 01/16/18

45 Linden Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Dorothea K. Radzicki
Seller: Joseph P. Graveline
Date: 01/24/18

8 Mereline Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $184,500
Buyer: Michael J. Matos
Seller: Timothy Vecchiarelli
Date: 01/24/18

27 Old Farm Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Rajesh Nimbalkar
Seller: Koang Yam
Date: 01/22/18

248 Somers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Steven Maynard
Seller: Linda J. Krause
Date: 01/26/18

53 Stonehill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $422,500
Buyer: Hanati Lubega
Seller: Susan R. Kravitz
Date: 01/25/18

HAMPDEN

8 Allen Court
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: David A. Feldott
Seller: Gerald R. Feldott
Date: 01/24/18

8 Highland Circle
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Bernard F. Opitz
Seller: Stephen U. Kane
Date: 01/19/18

HOLYOKE

461-463 Appleton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $1,390,000
Buyer: Appleton Exchange LLC
Seller: MTCS Realty LLC
Date: 01/26/18

21 Bray Park Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Anthony K. Sillars
Seller: Joseph B. Blanchard
Date: 01/16/18

4 Brenan St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Andrey A. Katalnikov
Seller: Luis D. Martinez
Date: 01/26/18

290 Cherry St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Bernard R. Bergeron
Seller: Nicole M. Devlin
Date: 01/25/18

62-64 Commercial St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Appleton Exchange LLC
Seller: SCB LLC
Date: 01/26/18

137 North East St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $138,900
Buyer: Gizenia G. Boyd
Seller: Saw Construction LLC
Date: 01/18/18

87-89 Saint James Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Michael H. Henderson
Seller: Brian J. O’Connell
Date: 01/16/18

510 South Bridge St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Bridge St Equities LLC
Seller: 555 High Street LLC
Date: 01/26/18

65 Waldo St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Eladio C. Pacheco
Seller: Witman Properties Inc.
Date: 01/19/18

LONGMEADOW

141 Blueberry Hill Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $508,000
Buyer: Christopher Bushey
Seller: Rosa M. Falvo
Date: 01/26/18

39 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: Michael W. Smith
Seller: Taylor A. Buckholz
Date: 01/26/18

128 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Deborah Michael
Date: 01/18/18

55 Fernleaf Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Lachenauer LLC
Seller: PLS Realty Inc.
Date: 01/22/18

19 Forest Glen Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Angeline Fernandez
Seller: Meredith E. Kane
Date: 01/23/18

31 Maple Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Carol Godbout
Seller: Nicole C. Esposito
Date: 01/26/18

33 Tedford Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Wei Liang
Seller: Albert Fine
Date: 01/19/18

70 Warren Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Taylor A. Buckholz
Seller: Jennifer A. Buentello
Date: 01/26/18

50 Wheel Meadow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $410,600
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jane W. Mackay
Date: 01/17/18

LUDLOW

563 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $357,000
Buyer: 563 Center Street LLC
Seller: S&R Realty Properties LLC
Date: 01/26/18

631 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Jeffrey H. Stratton
Seller: Grace Dias
Date: 01/23/18

Harvest Dr. #24
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $134,900
Buyer: T. E. Marinello-Mazur RET
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 01/18/18

18 Lakeview Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Melanie Dias
Seller: Vautrain, Florence, (Estate)
Date: 01/18/18

19 Letendre Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $127,500
Buyer: Antonio Carvalho
Seller: Sharlene G. Dec
Date: 01/19/18

MONSON

261 Bumstead Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $246,000
Buyer: Edward A. Belben
Seller: Michael J. Dalterio
Date: 01/19/18

222 Cedar Swamp Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Kristin L. Converse
Seller: James P. Bailey
Date: 01/18/18

39 Cote Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: David A. Nelson
Seller: Mark R. Pafumi
Date: 01/19/18

14 Hampden Court
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $204,000
Buyer: Larry Desreuisseau
Seller: Donald J. Vacon
Date: 01/17/18

288 Main St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Ellis Mill Monson LLC
Seller: Tower View LLC
Date: 01/18/18

299 Main St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Adam G. Bousquet
Seller: Darius Taylor
Date: 01/22/18

258 Silver St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $419,000
Buyer: Joshua J. Belliveau
Seller: Alfred T. Dobson
Date: 01/16/18

PALMER

11 Converse St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Belinda L. Sellers
Seller: Arthur F. Bechard
Date: 01/18/18

65 Griffin St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Charles Dustin
Seller: Ruby Realty LLC
Date: 01/26/18

SOUTHWICK

116 Granville Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $289,900
Buyer: Jeffrey V. Bertrand
Seller: AAA Homes LLC
Date: 01/22/18

12 Grove St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $399,900
Buyer: Craig R. Johnson
Seller: Charles Andrade
Date: 01/22/18

10 Lexington Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $542,500
Buyer: Justin R. Klaubert
Seller: Gonzo Aguilar
Date: 01/26/18

73 North Lake Ave.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Cody Baron
Seller: Karl Schmidt
Date: 01/26/18

12 Ridgeview Terrace
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $369,400
Buyer: Viktor Moshkovskiy
Seller: Glenn J. Oski
Date: 01/22/18

SPRINGFIELD

41 Amos Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Nelson Torres
Seller: Kelly M. Worthen
Date: 01/23/18

30 Armory St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Luz P. Rios-Garcia
Seller: Rafael Garcia
Date: 01/24/18

30 Benham St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $201,500
Buyer: Jeffrey Cardoza
Seller: Janice S. Watson
Date: 01/16/18

60 Bissell St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Alex O. Owusu
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 01/25/18

104 Bretton Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Kyle A. Koloski
Seller: James J. Bertier
Date: 01/26/18

88 Brunswick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Van Truong
Seller: John B. Le
Date: 01/23/18

3 Canton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Romy Terry
Seller: Value Properties LLC
Date: 01/22/18

14 Derryfield Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Rachel A. Purcell
Seller: Arthur Ferrara
Date: 01/16/18

80 Derryfield Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Dal Ghimirey
Seller: Mary L. Shanahan
Date: 01/17/18

69 Edendale St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Keyla M. Rios
Seller: Juan Santana
Date: 01/24/18

61-63 Eloise St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $118,800
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Gerald Michel
Date: 01/17/18

149 Endicott St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Ronald P. Chabot
Seller: Kevin C. Welz
Date: 01/16/18

14 French St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $141,000
Buyer: Karisha Gonzalez
Seller: Eliezer Burgos
Date: 01/18/18

61 Garland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $192,500
Buyer: Jennifer Holloway
Seller: Donald C. York
Date: 01/19/18

228 Gifford St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $155,800
Buyer: PNC Bank
Seller: Rosa G. Cintron
Date: 01/17/18

164 Hampden St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $149,400
Buyer: Ruby V. Jones
Seller: Liberty Onyx LLC
Date: 01/19/18

35 Healey St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Lillian Salgado
Seller: Thomas J. Gerrity
Date: 01/26/18

181 Laurelton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $157,900
Buyer: Pedro Aguirre
Seller: Perri Clara M., (Estate)
Date: 01/22/18

15 Lavender Lane
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Nicholas P. Diaz
Seller: William J. Laporte
Date: 01/23/18

112 Leavitt St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $124,184
Buyer: Pennymac Holdings LLC
Seller: Jeffrey A. St.Germain
Date: 01/23/18

91 Lorimer St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $122,500
Buyer: Sara M. Destromp
Seller: Christian Wiernasz
Date: 01/19/18

61 Ludlow Ave.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Norman A. Kirschbaum
Seller: William Martin
Date: 01/24/18

2000 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $2,961,538
Buyer: FRE Springfield MA Realty
Seller: Bio Medical Applications
Date: 01/16/18

32 Marsden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Robert A. Desautels
Seller: Donahue, Mary S., (Estate)
Date: 01/16/18

182 Naismith St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Luis D. Martinez
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 01/26/18

72 Orchard St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Templo Evangelistico Pentecostal
Seller: Iglesia De Dios Pentecostal
Date: 01/22/18

11 Pine Hill Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $177,000
Buyer: Oliver Sinclair
Seller: Michael P. Kavanaugh
Date: 01/24/18

46 Ronald Dr.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $141,000
Buyer: Paul Baez
Seller: Young, Joanna M., (Estate)
Date: 01/17/18

28 Rutledge Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Edwin Ortiz-Gonzalez
Seller: Jose E. Urena
Date: 01/26/18

103 South Branch Pkwy.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Daniel M. Keyes
Seller: Daniel M. Keyes
Date: 01/16/18

1603 South Branch Pkwy.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Andrew M. Barnhart
Seller: Thomas J. Cocchi
Date: 01/26/18

94 Saint Lawrence Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $147,500
Buyer: Jose D. Martinez
Seller: Eric J. Pericolosi
Date: 01/19/18

260 Talmadge Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Sean P. Conway
Seller: Equity T. Co.
Date: 01/19/18

38 Upland St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Miguel A. Maria
Seller: Daniel G. Atherholt
Date: 01/26/18

152 Wachusett St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Adam Carrington
Seller: S&C Homebuyers LLC
Date: 01/18/18

72 Westbrook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $127,920
Buyer: Loandepot Com LLC
Seller: Jason Hansen
Date: 01/25/18

100 White Birch Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $152,700
Buyer: Allison Crowner
Seller: Joann M. Lawrence
Date: 01/17/18

342 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $161,000
Buyer: Miguel A. Suarez
Seller: Blythewood Property Mgmt.
Date: 01/18/18

178 Windemere St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Alme Mercado
Seller: Wmass Residential LLC
Date: 01/22/18

31 Woodcrest Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Luke A. Dasilva
Seller: Pamela Kozlowski
Date: 01/16/18

WEST SPRINGFIELD

71 Cayenne St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Bayview Loan Servicing
Seller: Colleen C. Giroux
Date: 01/19/18

24 Chapin St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Shahid M. Pasha
Seller: Pavel, Henry H., (Estate)
Date: 01/26/18

36 Craiwell Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $237,500
Buyer: Ryan D. Gawle
Seller: John R. Macrae
Date: 01/16/18

22 Hewitt St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Vladimir Selin
Seller: Soja, Tadeusz A., (Estate)
Date: 01/19/18

42 Hill St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Rasha Al-Attar
Seller: John F. Young
Date: 01/26/18

19 Lathrop St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Old Day Realty LLC
Seller: Michael J. Powers
Date: 01/25/18

84 Park St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Old Day Realty LLC
Seller: Michael J. Powers
Date: 01/25/18

96 West Calvin St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $194,150
Buyer: Gianna M. Diclementi
Seller: Matthew S. Lanpher
Date: 01/26/18

36 Worthen St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Som Rai
Seller: Duc Truong
Date: 01/26/18

WESTFIELD

138 Apremont Way
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Lawry Realty LLC
Seller: Timothy M. O’Connor
Date: 01/16/18

212 Barbara St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Dek Darjee
Seller: Paul H. Domaingue
Date: 01/18/18

75 Beveridge Blvd.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $199,500
Buyer: Aleksandr Yanyuk
Seller: Denise J. Begley
Date: 01/24/18

19 Carroll Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: C. Dudley Shaw
Date: 01/18/18

Falcon Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Koziar Capital LLC
Seller: DBLS Realty LLC
Date: 01/26/18

34 Fowler St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Jacob O. Doser
Seller: Jeanette Griffin
Date: 01/19/18

739 Holyoke Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Bruce D. McClellan
Seller: Jesse J. Caisse
Date: 01/19/18

130 Lindbergh Blvd.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $115,989
Buyer: Home Point Financial Corp.
Seller: Carole J. McGregor
Date: 01/26/18

31 Mather St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Paul J. McCormick
Seller: Joseph C. Dunlap
Date: 01/22/18

268 Sackett Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $261,000
Buyer: Jeffery J. Bednaz
Seller: Renee L. Hooben
Date: 01/19/18

44 Spruce St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $188,950
Buyer: Amanda E. Lajzer
Seller: Michael W. Egan
Date: 01/26/18

125 Union St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Ronald Schortmann
Seller: Joyce M. Paroline
Date: 01/19/18

11 Walker Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Jeffrey P. Gavioli
Seller: Furkey, Shirley M., (Estate)
Date: 01/24/18

141 Western Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $269,000
Buyer: Brian P. Mcewan
Seller: Kane, Dona M., (Estate)
Date: 01/16/18

WILBRAHAM

3123 Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Jamie Kohn
Seller: Charles H. Dustin
Date: 01/26/18

9 Ely Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Nichole Gomes
Seller: Della Ripa Real Estate
Date: 01/16/18

6 Hawthorne Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Andrew Mcalary
Seller: Wilmington Savings
Date: 01/25/18

62 Manchonis Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Adam W. Howe
Seller: Nicole C. Rucki
Date: 01/16/18

416 Soule Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Patrick S. O’Brien
Seller: Elizabeth A. Murphy
Date: 01/18/18

89-91 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Bank Invest LLC
Seller: Richard A. Riga
Date: 01/22/18

400 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Patrick H. Yarrows
Seller: Lillian F. Corriveau IRT
Date: 01/24/18

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

660 Bay Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $178,200
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Kathryn A. Wilkens
Date: 01/16/18

110 Henry St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Dinsmore-Spence TR
Seller: Amherst Real Estate Services
Date: 01/26/18

3 Matoon St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $253,200
Buyer: Kay Gregory
Seller: Christine M. Donatone
Date: 01/17/18

3 Nathaniel Way
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Maxwell Scoon
Seller: Reed FT
Date: 01/25/18

501 South Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $415,400
Buyer: Aaron J. Guimond
Seller: Lafleur & Son Inc.
Date: 01/25/18

15 Sunset Court
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Lincoln Avenue Partners
Seller: Frances P. Fulcher
Date: 01/16/18

57 Valley View Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Alec Theilman
Seller: Sullivan, Agnes G., (Estate)
Date: 01/19/18

605 Warren Wright Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Anthony Maietta
Seller: Stephen A. Rondeau
Date: 01/26/18

8 Westwood Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $256,000
Buyer: Tenzin Yangzom
Seller: John J. McCarthy
Date: 01/26/18

CUMMINGTON

21 Bush Road
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $238,500
Buyer: Alan J. Gagnon
Seller: Mary E. Niles-Howard
Date: 01/26/18

EASTHAMPTON

1 Doody Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Anthony M. Crimmins
Seller: Hing E. Seng
Date: 01/24/18

6 Dragon Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Samantha L. Lheureux IRT
Seller: Daniel G. Pouliot
Date: 01/17/18

11 Dragon Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Purple Heart NT
Seller: Jon C. Taber
Date: 01/18/18

68-78 Everett St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $574,000
Buyer: Laughing Brothers Properties
Seller: Kazimierz J. Kasa
Date: 01/19/18

8 Kania St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $248,000
Buyer: Michael P. Witzing
Seller: David N. Houle
Date: 01/26/18

29 Morin Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $128,200
Buyer: Patrick E. O’Neil
Seller: Bank New York Mellon
Date: 01/19/18

Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $925,000
Buyer: Cumberland Farms Inc.
Seller: A-Z Storage & Properties
Date: 01/24/18

GOSHEN

68 Main St.
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $216,500
Buyer: Randall G. Baker
Seller: Timothy M. Mott
Date: 01/19/18

GRANBY

89 Aldrich St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Chad Rodrigue
Seller: Coakley Corp.
Date: 01/26/18

28 High St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Nathaniel L. Spear
Seller: Leroy H. Fredette
Date: 01/18/18

2 Hilltop Acres
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Robert M. Os
Seller: Stephen G. Goulet
Date: 01/23/18

148 West St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $116,993
Buyer: Deoclecio Artur
Seller: Deutsche Bank
Date: 01/23/18

HADLEY

7 French St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: James G. Dubois-Sector
Seller: Rosenlund, Debra A., (Estate)
Date: 01/26/18

8 French St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: James G. Dubois-Sector
Seller: Rosenlund, Debra A., (Estate)
Date: 01/26/18

HATFIELD

10 North St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Marc P. Brugnoni
Seller: Cahill FT
Date: 01/16/18

NORTHAMPTON

319 Bridge St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Pioneer Property Services
Seller: Joseph E. Kielec
Date: 01/16/18

67 Chestnut Ave.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Dale M. West
Seller: Beaver Brook NT
Date: 01/26/18

27 Clark St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $143,035
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Ronald A. Lieberwirth
Date: 01/16/18

55 Damon Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,535,000
Buyer: American Dream Realty LLC
Seller: Robert S. Thomas
Date: 01/18/18

233 Emerson Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Claudia Beldengreen
Seller: Emerson Way LLC
Date: 01/26/18

41 Florence Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Jaime L. Ginsberg
Seller: Douglas M. Kimball
Date: 01/16/18

SOUTH HADLEY

3 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $271,000
Buyer: Kevin M. Taugher
Seller: Robert P. Silvain
Date: 01/22/18

52 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: William A. Bradley
Seller: John E. Piskor
Date: 01/26/18

114 College St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Andrew L. Klepacki
Seller: David M. Conti
Date: 01/26/18

3 Greenwood Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: William F. Kent
Seller: Catherine Rigali
Date: 01/18/18

7 Pleasant St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Shah MA Realty LLC
Seller: Diane M. Bernashe-Lecca
Date: 01/17/18

11 Silver St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $199,900
Buyer: Joseph A. Stefanelli
Seller: Deborah S. Kearney
Date: 01/22/18

2 Silverwood Terrace
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: John E. Geoffroy
Seller: Lynn Ann McLaughlin RET
Date: 01/26/18

25 Sunset Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Maryann T. Sadowski
Seller: Carol A. Demerski
Date: 01/26/18

SOUTHAMPTON

132 Fomer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $379,900
Buyer: Evan R. Huff
Seller: Maureen Armstrong
Date: 01/26/18

10 Jonathan Judd Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $346,000
Buyer: Thomas J. Galica
Seller: Vijay V. Dalal
Date: 01/17/18

77 Moose Brook Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $409,000
Buyer: David N. Houle
Seller: David Garstka Builders
Date: 01/26/18

WARE

136 Eagle St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $143,000
Buyer: Scott McCaughey
Seller: Lynn G. Mackinson
Date: 01/22/18

347 Monson Turnpike Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Delia J. Butler
Seller: Victor J. Jacek
Date: 01/17/18

19 Smith Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Ashlee Burns
Seller: Barbara R. Topor
Date: 01/22/18

WILLIAMSBURG
53 Hyde Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: Gary D. Emerson
Seller: Kathaleen Emerson
Date: 01/17/18

35 Village Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Geoffrey S. Lebaron
Seller: Steven E. Thayer
Date: 01/18/18

Building Permits

By
Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the months of January and February 2018.

CHICOPEE

J. and N. Salema Family
480 Burnett Road
$6,000 — Replace water-damaged sheetrock and ceiling tiles

U-Haul Real Estate Co.
878 Memorial Dr.
$4,000 — Demolish partition walls

EASTHAMPTON

Autumn Properties, LLC
161-165 Northampton St.
$8,850 — Add interior partitions to create extra offices

Cumberland Farms
2211 Northampton St.
$1,022,350 — Construct convenience store with fuel stations, canopy, and parking

Keystone Enterprises
122 Pleasant St.
$18,500 — Install HVAC system for Float Therapy Spa

U.S. Bank
13 Sterling Dr.
$24,500 — Remove and replace existing roof covering; interior renovations

EAST LONGMEADOW

The Arbor’s Kids
126 Industrial Dr.
$177,755 — Renovations

East Longmeadow Wellness Center
250 North Main St.
$18,000 — Sheet metal

Fairview Extended Care
305 Maple St.
$5,000 — Construction trailer

Irina’s Décor
100 Shaker Road
$3,000 — Sheet metal

HADLEY

220 Russell Street, LLC
220 Russell St.
$615,000 — New steel building for Wagging Tail, a new canine daycare center

Gibbs Oil Co., LP
110 Russell St.
$2,175 — Reface two signs

Town of Hadley
15 East St.
$15,000 — Verizon Wireless to replace antennas with new models and install remote radio heads to existing cell tower

LONGMEADOW

Longmeadow Country Club
400 Shaker Road
$15,900 — Demo and removal of walk-in coolers

Mario Davis Magnani
791 Maple Road
$2,550 — Add two illuminated signs to roof

LUDLOW

Country Bank
64 Cherry St.
$6,500 — Demolition

Country Bank
64 Cherry St.
$12,000 — Illuminated sign

Country Bank
64 Cherry St.
$2,100 — Illuminated sign

NORTHAMPTON

City of Northampton
6 Water St.
$5,688 — Reroof building for Water Department

City of Northampton
125 Locust St.
$11,368 — Reroof storage building at Department of Public Works

City of Northampton
23 Center St.
$664,350 — Concrete and masonry repair and waterproofing at Police Department; new plaza deck drain installations

Cumberland Farms Inc.
53 Main St.
$800 — Reface ground-mounted illuminated sign

Five College Realtors
92 Main St.
$2,800 — Illuminated wall sign

Five College Realtors
92 Main St.
$2,800 — Illuminated wall sign

O’Connell Oil Associates Inc.
506 Pleasant St.
$6,000 — Two illuminated canopy signs at Shell gas station

P + Q, LLC
110 Main St.
$1,000 — Non-illuminated wall sign

Saga Communications of NE Inc.
15 Hampton Ave.
$12,500 — Install new drop ceiling in conference room and install refrigerator in break room

SOUTHWICK

Westfield River Brewing Co.
707 College Highway
$20,000 — Lighting and windows on second floor

SPRINGFIELD

3640 Main St., LLP
3640 Main St., Suite 101
$289,934 — Interior renovations for use as an MRI center

Baystate Health
3350 Main St.
$988,766 — Renovate existing suite into infusion space

Mike Bergdoll
1271 Page Blvd.
$53,000 — Renovate Swift Trip gas station and convenience store

F.L. Roberts
275 Albany Ave.
$25,000 — Concrete pad for new building

GF Enterprises
633 Liberty St.
$202,000 — Upgrade building exterior of Taco Bell restaurant with new paint and signage, upgrade dining room, and ensure bathrooms are ADA-compliant

Liberty Medical Associates, LLP
125 Liberty St.
$14,820 — Construct wall to enclose future break room, add door, and remove sink in Suite 408; construct closet and add door in Suite 402

MassDevelopment Finance Agency
1550 Main St.
$55,580 — Renovate area into two conference rooms for Alekman DiTusa

Mercy Medical Center
271 Carew St.
$35,732 — Demolish casework, wall, and doors; install new finishes, new wall configuration, millwork, and doors

Mercy Medical Center
271 Carew St.
$17,107 — Build wall and hard ceiling to set back a door which is currently an egress/safety issue

Monarch Enterprise
1414 Main St.
$173,700 — Remodel existing space into a new Starbucks coffee shop

VIP Nail Salon
1704 Boston Road
$7,400 — Electrical and plumbing

WESTFIELD

City of Westfield
25 Dartmouth St.
Renovation to existing building

Governor’s Center RE, LLC
66 South Broad St.
Construct new bathroom and kitchenette

Rosow Westfield, LLC
66 South Broad St.
$36,900 — Install new garage door, construct new load-bearing walls, and construct new offices

Rosow Westfield, LLC
66 South Broad St.
$13,700 — Steel beam and support columns

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Century Investment Co.
219 Memorial Ave.
$54,400 — Interior tenant remodeling for purpose of retail sales

Crosslight Gospel Church
2611 Westfield St.
$10,000 — Construct storage area on side of building

General Equities
884 Westfield St.
$82,155 — Renovations, including new ceiling tiles, bathroom remodel, interior painting, new storefront glass, and siding

Drew Moyes
958 Riverdale Road
$2,000 — Alterations to interior space for Agri-Mark Inc.

Northern Rail Services Inc.
175 Circuit Ave.
$28,000 — Add dimising walls and two bathrooms

WILBRAHAM

75 Post Office Park, LLC
75 Post Office Park
$25,000 — Create interior office space for Proshred

Picture This

By
Departments Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

A Sneak Peek

MGM Springfield gave area officials and the press a sneak peek at the Massachusetts Casino Career Training Institute (MCCTI) Gaming School on Feb. 13. Located on the ninth floor of 95 State St., MGM Springfield’s headquarters, the facility was designed to develop and train individuals interested in applying for gaming positions with the resort casino slated to open this fall. MCCTI is operated by Training and Workforce Options, a collaboration between Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). Below, from top to bottom, MGM President and COO Mike Mathis talks with guests at one of the poker tables. Middle, MGM Springfield General Manager Alex Dixon is flanked by STCC President John Cook and HCC President Christina Royal. Bottom, below, Cook is one of the interested spectators as Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, right, is given some lessons in how to deal blackjack from Robert Westerfield, vice president of Table Games for MGM Springfield.   Photos by MGM/Springfield Mark Murray



Grand Tour

The West of the River Chamber of Commerce (WRC) board of directors and elected officials recently toured the OMG Inc. manufacturing facility in Agawam. Employing more than 350 people in the Agawam facility alone, OMG is a domestic manufacturer of specialty fasteners, adhesives, tools, and related products for the commercial and residential construction markets. Below, pictured top to bottom, from left: West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, WRC Executive Director Robin Wozniak, Agawam Mayor Bill Sapelli, and state Rep. Nick Boldyga. Bottom, from left: Boldyga, Sapelli, and OMG CEO Hubert McGovern.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By
Chamber Corners Departments

1BERKSHIRE

www.1berkshire.com

(413) 499-1600

• Feb. 27: Entrepreneurial Meetup, 8-10 a.m., hosted by Dottie’s Coffee Lounge, Pittsfield. Join us for networking and share what you’ve been working on in an open-mic format. 1Berkshire’s Entrepreneurial Meetups are free events that gather entrepreneurs together to network, learn, and engage. They provide small-business owners, or people interested in starting a business, opportunities to have casual, organic conversations with peers and resource providers.

• Feb. 28: Good News Business Salute, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Zion Church, Pittsfield. Come celebrate Jacob’s Pillow, IS183, and more. This event recognizes major milestones, including anniversaries, expansions, and new product lines of Berkshire businesses, and gives us a chance to come together to applaud their efforts. Member cost: $35 for individual, $140 for table of four, $280 for table of eight. Non-member cost: $45 for individual, $180 for table of four, $360 for table of eight.

• March 21: Chamber Nite, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Lee Bank, 75 North St., Pittsfield. Bring your business card to enter to win our door prize. Register online at www.1berkshire.com.

• March 28: Career Fair, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., hosted by Berkshire Community College, Paterson Field House, 1350 West St., Pittsfield. Get in front of Berkshire-based businesses at this annual event. Connect with employers looking to hire. You may also choose to exhibit, and recruit new employees, grow your business, and get in front of hundreds of job seekers. The event is free and open to the public. If you are interested in exhibiting or attending, visit www.1berkshire.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com

(413) 253-0700

• March 15: Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Amherst After 5 Networking, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Country Nissan, 40 Russell St., Hadley.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org

(413) 594-2101

• March 2: Shining Stars Enchanted Gardens Gala, 6-10 p.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Sponsored by Westfield Bank, Polish National Credit Union, Planet Fitness, PeoplesBank, the Arbors Kids, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, BusinessWest, Savings Institute Bank & Trust, Hampton Inn, Holyoke Medical Center, Pioneer Packaging Inc., United Personnel, CHH Engraving, Central Oil, Masse’s American Bistro Inc., and ICNE. Cost: $60. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• March 8: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180 Park, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Multi-chamber event sponsored exclusively by CHH Engraving Inc. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• March 21: St. Patrick’s Day Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by the Delaney House, 1 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Chief greeter: John Beaulieu, city of Chicopee and St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. Keynote speaker: Sean Cahillane, Irish Cultural Center. Sarah the Fiddler will perform. Sponsored by United Personnel, Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Polish National Credit Union, Gaudreau Group, Sunshine Village, Spherion Staffing Services, and PeoplesBank. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org

(413) 527-9414

• Feb. 27: Strengths-based Leadership, 7:45-10 a.m., hosted by Innovative Business Systems, Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. In the first of a two-part series, Colleen DelVecchio, a certified CliftonStrengths coach, will lead us into our strongest selves as leaders via our personnel Gallup StrengthFinder assessment and insight reports. At the end of the two breakfast sessions, you will understand the keys to be a more effective leader, unveil your strengths, learn to invest in the strengths of others, get people with the right strengths on your team, and understand and meet the four basic needs of those who look to you for leadership: trust, compassion, stability, and hope. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• March 8: Multi-Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180 Park, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Interland Real Estate, LLC. In addition to the Easthampton Chamber, the chambers of Northampton, Springfield, Holyoke, Westfield, Chicopee, and West of the River are all involved. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• March 16: St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon, noon, hosted by Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds. The main speaker will be Easthampton City Councilor Dan Carey. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• March 27: “Strength-based Leadership” featuring Colleen DelVecchio, certified Clifton Strengths Coach. The second of a two-part series (see Feb. 27 listing above). For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holyokechamber.com

(413) 534-3376

• Feb. 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Holyoke Community College MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Holyoke Community College. Join us for a casual networking experience at HCC’s recently opened culinary facility. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Feb. 28: “Ask a Chamber Expert: How to Attract Customers to Your Marketing Table,” 8:30-9:30 a.m., Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Get ready for the upcoming multi-chamber Taste of Business by learning how to successfully attract customers to your table. Presented by Francie Richardson of Art Craft. Cost: free for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Price includes a continental breakfast. Register at holyokechamber.com.

• March 7: The Chamber Coffee Buzz Morning Networking, 7:30-9 a.m., sponsored and hosted by Loomis House, 298 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Jump-start your day with the opportunity to meet business and community leaders while enjoying coffee and a light breakfast. Coffee sponsored by Manage Your Health and Wealth. Free to the business community. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com or call (413) 534-3376.

• March 7: “Women in Leadership: Leadership in Your Future,” 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., hosted by HCC Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. Join us from March through June to learn from area CEOs while networking with peers from the region. An elegant lunch prepared by the Holyoke Community College Culinary Arts program will provide the setting, which will create the opportunity for a meaningful dialogue on some key leadership issues for those building their careers. Each month, your table will join one of the region’s leading CEOs. Future leadership luncheons will take place on April 4, May 2, and June 5. Cost: $125 for all four sessions.

• March 8: Networking by Night Multi Chamber Event, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180 Park, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. An evening of powerhouse networking with several regional chambers, plus food and a cash bar. Chamber partners include Holyoke, Easthampton, Springfield, Westfield, West of the River, Chicopee, and Northampton. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Pre-registration required.

• March 1 4: St. Patrick’s Day Business Breakfast 2018, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank; Holyoke Mall at Ingleside; Resnic, Beauregard, Waite and Driscoll; and the Republican. Coffee bar sponsored by Marcotte Ford and Holyoke Medical Center. Connect with friends over a hearty Irish breakfast. The 2018 St. Patrick’s Parade Committee award winners, the Grand Colleen and her court, local business milestones, and new chamber members will be recognized. Register by March 8 for a discounted price of $35; cost is $40 after that. Marketing tables are available. Door prizes are welcome. The deadline to register is March 12. Visit holyokechamber.com to sign up, or call (413) 534-3376.

• March 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Slainte Restaurant, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Sponsored by Expert Staffing. Meet up with your business associates for networking and food. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com. Call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376 if you would like to bring a door prize or if you’re interested in a marketing table for $25.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com

(413) 584-1900

• Feb. 21: February Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Greenfield Savings Bank, 325A King St., Northampton. Sponsored by Webber & Grinnell Insurance Co. Cost: $10 for members.

• March 8: March Arrive @5 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage. The Northampton, Easthampton, Holyoke, Springfield, Westfield, West of the River, and Chicopee chambers are partnering on this networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org

(413) 568-1618

• March 5: March Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Mercy Continuing Care Network at Westfield Adult Day Health, 24 Clifton St., Westfield. Cost: free. Call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• March 14: March After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Spotlight Graphics, 9B Whalley Way, Southwick. Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: $10 for the general public (cash or credit paid at the door). Register online at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam Bussell at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• March 16: St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Westfield State University, 577 Western Ave., Westfield. Event sponsor: Westfield State University; bronze sponsor: Republic Services; in-kind flower sponsor: Flowers by Webster. Keynote speaker: Bo Sullivan, executive director of the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England. A 50/50 raffle will support the chamber scholarship fund. Cost: $25 for chamber members, $30 for the general public. Register online at www.westfieldbiz.org. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, contact Pam Bussell at the chamber at (413) 568-1618 or [email protected].

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

www.springfieldregionalchamber.com

(413) 787-1555

• March 7: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Cost: $25 for members ($30 at the door), $35 general admission ($40 at the door).

• March 8: After Hours with Springfield Regional, Greater Easthampton, Westfield and West of the River Chambers, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Cost: $10 for members, $15 general admission.

• March 9: Outlook 2018, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by the MassMutual Center, Springfield. Featuring keynote speaker Gov. Charlie Baker and Eric Rosengren, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Cost: $60 for members in advance; $80 general admission in advance.

• March 13: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, details to be announced.

• March 20: C-Suite Conversations & Cocktails, 5-7 p.m., hosted by CityStage, One Columbus Center, Springfield. Members-only event featuring MGM President Mike Mathis. Cost: $25.

• March 29: Speed Networking, 3:30-5 p.m., location to be determined. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 general admission in advance ($35 at the door).

Reservations for all chamber events may be made by visiting www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mailing [email protected], or calling (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com

(413) 426-3880

• March 6: Business Breakfast with MGM, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, West Springfield. Join fellow members and non-members for a business breakfast with MGM. We will provide an update as well as one-on-one sessions with MGM representatives for the bidding process. Sponsorships are available for this event. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• March 15: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Crestview Country Club, Agawam. You must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief introduction and company overview. The only cost to attend is the cost of lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. We cannot invoice you for these events. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

springfieldyps.com

• March 10: Eighth annual YP Cup Dodgeball Tournament, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., hosted by Springfield College, Dana Gymnasium, 263 Alden St., Springfield. Cost: $35 for individuals, $275 to $1,000 for teams and sponsorships. More information and registration available at springfieldyps.com.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

Employer Confidence Begins 2018 with Increase

BOSTON — Massachusetts employers began 2018 much the way they ended 2017 — with growing confidence in the economy and optimism about their own business prospects. The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index rose a half-point to 64.1 during January, setting another 17-year high. The Index has gained 2.7 points during the past 12 months as employer confidence levels have remained comfortably within the optimistic range. Growing enthusiasm about the Massachusetts economy and a brightening outlook on economic conditions six months from now fueled the January confidence increase. At the same time, the hiring outlook remained muted as low unemployment and demographic shifts continued to impede the ability of employers to find the workers they need. The survey was taken prior to major declines in global financial markets during the past several days. “Rising confidence is not surprising in a state with 3.5% unemployment and an economy that grew at a 3.3% annual rate during the fourth quarter,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA) and lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Design. “Economic output, job growth, and spending all rose at a healthy clip in Massachusetts during the final three months of the year, and economists expect modest growth to continue during the first half of 2018.” The AIM Index, based on a survey of Massachusetts employers, has appeared monthly since July 1991. It is calculated on a 100-point scale, with 50 as neutral; a reading above 50 is positive, while below 50 is negative. The Index reached its historic high of 68.5 on two occasions in 1997-98, and its all-time low of 33.3 in February 2009. It has remained above 50 since October 2013. The constituent indicators that make up the overall Business Confidence Index were mixed during January. The most significant gain came in the Massachusetts Index assessing business conditions within the Commonwealth, which rose 1.3 points to 68.9. The Massachusetts Index has gained 3.7 points in the past two months, 5.5 points year over year, and now stands at its highest level since November 2000. The U.S. Index of national business conditions also continued a yearlong rally by gaining 0.6 points to 64.8. January marked the 95th consecutive month in which employers have been more optimistic about the Massachusetts economy than the national economy. The Current Index, which assesses overall business conditions at the time of the survey, decreased a point to 61.7, while the Future Index, measuring expectations for six months out, surged 2.1 points to 66.6. The Current Index has risen 2.1 points and the Future Index 3.3 points during the past 12 months. The Company Index, reflecting employer views of their own operations and prospects, rose slightly, gaining 0.2 points to 62.3. The Employment Index was essentially flat, leaving it 2.1 points below its level of January 2017. Non-manufacturing companies (66.6) were more optimistic than manufacturers (62.3). Large employers (67.2) were more bullish than medium-sized companies (62.7) or small businesses (63.5). “The strong Future Index readings signal that employers anticipate steady growth during the first two quarters of 2018. The only fly in ointment remains the prospect that labor shortages may constrict the ability of companies to grow and expand,” said Paul Bolger, president, Massachusetts Capital Resource Co., and a BEA member. AIM President and CEO Richard Lord, also BEA member, said 2018 brings with it significant risk for employers as progressive groups push ballot questions that could create a $1 billion paid family and medical leave program, impose a punitive tax on many small businesses, and raise the state minimum wage to $15 per hour. “The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court will today hear arguments in a challenge that I and four other business leaders filed to the constitutionality of the income surtax question,” Lord noted. “Meanwhile, the business community is seeking common ground on a compromise paid-leave proposal that will not harm the economy.”

Home Sales in Pioneer Valley Post Gains in 2017

SPRINGFIELD — Single-family home sales posted gains in both volume and price last year, according to the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley, with total sales up 1.7% from 2016 to 2017, and median price up 4.5%. In Franklin County, sales were up 3.0% in 2017, and median price up 2.3%. In Hampden County, sales rose 3.6%, and median price saw a 5.5% gain. However, in Hampshire County, sales were down 3.4%, though median price rose 4.1%.

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

McCarthy, Tracy Ann
77 Marguerite St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/10/18

Mercure, Tina Marie
25 Elizabeth St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/09/18

Mitchell, Mark H.
Mitchell, Melanie J.
1173 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/17

Murray, Thomas J.
325 North Lane
Granville, MA 01034
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/30/17

Piela, Karl M.
74 Shepherd St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/03/18

Santana, Severo
378 El Paso St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/08/18

Schoolcraft, Charles M.
1241 Elm St. Apt. 4C
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/03/18

Squires, Peter M.
33 Draper St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/02/18

Terrero De Perez, Mirta S.
92 Corona St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/11/18

Vargas, Carmen J.
38 Montcalm St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/03/18

Walker, Amy B.
3 Pine St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/10/18

Wentworth, Stephanie
103 Hardwick Pond Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/02/18

Plenty of Options Available for Home-monitoring Technology

By
Health Care Sections

Left to Their Own Devices

While residential care services have broadened in recent years for seniors unable to live independently, technology has emerged as well to help older people stay in their homes longer, if they so choose — while giving some peace of mind to their families. Here are a few currently available devices, and what the health-tech media is saying about them.

GPS Trackers

Individuals with dementia face specific challenges at home — particularly the possibility they might wander from that home. To counter that challenge, a number of trackers, many that operate with global positioning system (GPS) technology, have emerged on the market.

A solution to wandering from the Alzheimer’s Assoc., the Comfort Zone Check-In application ($10 per month) allows caregivers to use a small tracking device to monitor their loved one with dementia.

“Comfort Zone Check-In combines the latest technology with flexibility, allowing families to change devices and plans as a person’s disease progresses and monitoring needs change,” according to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. “Using GPS and cellular technologies with online mapping, the entire family can proactively determine the location of the person with Alzheimer’s. Families log into a secure, password-protected website similar to logging into most e-mail systems and proactively establish safety zones.”

“Comfort Zone Check In has the potential to give peace of mind, both to those who care for Alzheimer’s patients, as well as patients themselves, who can get frustrated or distressed when people will not let them do anything independently,” noted Health and Life in a review. “It is not an over-exaggeration to say that Comfort Zone Check In could have a dramatic impact on Alzheimer’s care, especially as research continues to unlock the complexities of the condition and we understand more and more about it.

A new cellular tracking device, iTraq3 ($149) uses cellular towers to determine location, allowing it to be used anywhere there is service. The device itself is as small as a credit card, and its location is reported through a mobile application which allows the user to view a map of locations and timestamps. Itraq also features a ‘guard mode’ where users can specify a radius on a map, then receive alerts if and when the itraq goes beyond the pre-set radius.

“iTraq is a remarkable cellular tracking device for iPhone or iPad,” iGeeksBlog notes. “Being developed as the most effective gadget to track your things, it is the world’s first global location device. As iTraq uses cellular towers to determine location, it can be located anywhere else in the world where cellular service exists.”

Meanwhile, Pocketfinder ($159), a small, waterproof GPS devices, allow users to not only view a GPS location, but also an address, distance from the address, and the speed the device is moving. The app provides updates at the touch of a button through e-mail and text notifications. It also provides an unlimited number of ‘geofences’ that send an alert when the GPS leaves a specified area.

“While there are several similar GPS technologies in the market,” Digifloor notes, “PocketFinder removes the complexities of modern wireless technologies and offers a simple and easy solution that helps people coordinate and communicate with people and things.”

In-home Sensors

Rather than track people outside the home, another class of devices helps people know what their loved ones are up to in their homes. Activity-based sensors can reassure that the resident is up and about, carrying out daily tasks — or not.

For example, Alarm.com’s Wellness independent living solution ($99) integrates a suite of sensors and devices, and applies machine-learning algorithms to the data they generate to detect changes that may suggest risks. Wellness can report about changes in activity levels, sleeping and eating patterns, bathroom-visit frequency, and medication adherence, as well as emergency situations like wandering out of the home or falls.

“Far from being a contemporary Big Brother, the system provides real-time info on your loved one’s whereabouts and well-being, all without the use of intrusive cameras,” Reviewed reports. “The system uses a combination of bed-presence monitors, motion sensors, and panic buttons to track movement and alert users and caregivers of any unexpected changes in routine.”

One of the newest devices is the Inirv React ($239), which connects the stove to a sensor in the home and a smartphone app. The sensor will automatically turn the stove off if it no longer detects motion around the appliance after a long period of time. The stove can also be turned off remotely using a smartphone.

“You can control individual burners through your phone, of course, but the real star of the show is a sensor that sits on your ceiling,” according to Engadget. “If it detects gas, smoke, or prolonged inactivity, it automatically shuts off active burners. You shouldn’t have to worry about sparking a house fire just because you forgot to switch the stove off before you left for the movies.”

Meanwhile, the iGuardStove Intelligent ($495) is a pricier way to shut off the stove if a loved one is away from the cooktop for too long. It automatically shuts off the stove if cooking is left unattended, thanks to a two-part system of a power box and motion detector.

“The built-in wi-fi can help keep you posted online about how often the system has to shut down off your stove and send you alerts if it’s happening a little too often,” CNET notes. “The iGuardStove Intelligent is a good product if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one leaving a stove unattended.”

LifeAssist Technologies has developed the Reminder Rosie ($99), a clock that allows the recording of personalized messages and reminders that will be broadcast at scheduled times for whomever is in the home — perhaps a reminder to take medication or that the grandchildren will be coming over for dinner.

“Using revolutionary speech recognition technologies, Reminder Rosie announces multiple, loud, personalized reminder alarms at specific times daily, weekly, on a specific date, annually, in any language,” Caregiver Products reports. “Rosie can also tell the time, date, or today’s reminders to help organize each day. This talking alarm clock provides a simple solution to help users remember medications, appointments, household tasks, social activities, and other helpful information without touching any buttons. Reminder Rosie is a low-tech, stress-free memory aid that seniors or those with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or memory loss can actually use.”

Emergency pendants with fall detection serve a specific purpose, and have been around for longer than most other technologies in this article. Worn around the wrist or neck, they can be pressed in case of an emergency, such as after a fall, and a call is immediately made to 911 and/or pre-programmed numbers of family members.

Along with its lightweight and waterproof design, Philips Lifeline products are some of the more popular solutions on the market: HomeSafe, with autoalert fall detection (from $44.95 per month), works at home, while its GoSafe pendant, with autoalert and two-way voice (from $54.95 per month), uses up to six locating technologies, including GPS, to find someone in an emergency.

Medication Reminders

Then there are medication reminders, a field that has attracted plenty of innovation in recent years, with devices designed to remind, dispense, and manage medication.

Top5Reviews chooses as its favorite model the medSmart e-Pill automatic dispenser ($490), which comes with two keys, six daily alarms, a patient-compliance dashboard, and alarms that alert with sound and blinking lights.

“One buyer that we spoke to applauds its particularly deep medication compartments, compared to other models on the market,” the site notes. “One word of caution: it is a good buy only if the person taking the medicine is able to remember what the alarm signifies, is able to actually get the medicine out of the dispenser, and who are likely to take the pills right after removing them from the e-Pill.

For a budget option, Wirecutter, in its reviews of e-pill products, noted that the clock of the 31-day MedCenter System monthly pill organizer ($96) “was the easiest and most intuitive to program of any device we tested. If you can set a bedside alarm clock, you can set up this reminder device.

“However,” it went on, “you need to load the MedCenter’s pill trays, which each have their own plastic cover — individually, a task that can be a little arduous if you’re planning out a whole month. And you can’t individually lock the plastic pill caddies, which makes this model fine for a self-care situation or one where the patient is fully aware and not easily confused.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Bradley International Airport to Launch Non-stop Service to St. Louis

By
Daily News

WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) announced the debut of new daily, non-stop service between Bradley International Airport and St. Louis Lambert International Airport on Southwest Airlines.

“I’ve long advocated that we need to utilize Bradley International Airport as an economic driver to boost growth in our region, and adding an additional direct flight to a major hub is another component toward increasing these efforts,” Gov. Dannel Malloy said. “As we add more airlines and increase the number of routes offered at our state’s premier airport, we are opening the door for increased economic opportunities for business travelers who see Hartford as a destination where their companies can do business with even more convenience.”

The service will commence on Aug. 7, utilizing a Boeing 737, with an average of 143 seats. The daily departure from Bradley International Airport is scheduled for 11:10 a.m. (Eastern Time), with an arrival at St. Louis Lambert International Airport at 12:45 p.m. (Central Time). The inbound flight is scheduled to leave St. Louis at 4:25 p.m. (Central) and arrive at Bradley at 7:50 p.m. (Eastern).

“We’re pleased to strengthen our partnership with Southwest with the addition of this route,” said Charles Gray, CAA board chairman. “Their expansion at Bradley International Airport is a testament to everything our airport has to offer and ultimately benefits not only our passengers but also our regional economy.”

This route will be Southwest’s 10th non-stop destination out of Bradley International Airport. The airline currently offers non-stop service from Bradley to Baltimore, Chicago, Denver, Ft. Lauderdale, Ft. Myers, Las Vegas, Orlando, Tampa, and West Palm Beach. The airline first started flying out of Bradley in 1999.

Freedom Credit Union Announces New Chicopee Branch Officer

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Freedom Credit Union (FCU), headquartered on Main Street in Springfield and serving members throughout Western Mass. through nine additional branches, announced the recent appointment of William Sharp as the new branch officer in Chicopee.

“In Bill, Chicopee has the perfect individual as the new leader in the office,” said Glenn Welch, president and CEO of Freedom Credit Union. “Bill is an extremely effective communicator and a real ‘people person.’ Building on his previous business-development role with FCU, Bill’s new position will mean more direct interaction and ongoing relationships with our members — and that will serve them very well.”

Sharp has worked with financial institutions for 40 years, having held management positions within the banking industry prior to joining Freedom Credit Union in 2013. He is active within his community and has received several recognitions. He currently serves as board chair for the Boys & Girls Club of Chicopee, which awarded him the Dr. Edward Ryan Award for board service in 2016. That same year, the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, which he had served as treasurer, named him Ambassador of the Year. He also has served as board chair for the Franklin Hampshire Regional Employment Board and, in 2003, was named Volunteer of the Year by the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce.

Two New Members Appointed to STCC Board of Trustees

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Technical Community College board of trustees recently welcomed two new members. Gov. Charlie Baker appointed Elizabeth Oleksak-Sposito and Jeffrey Sattler to serve on the board, an 11-member body that governs STCC.

Oleksak-Sposito worked as a clinical care manager at Boston Medical Center Health Plan from 2012 until her retirement in 2016. She provided holistic medical-care-management services for plan members with chronic conditions and complex care needs.

Prior to joining Boston Medical Center Health Plan, she worked as a medical case manager for Broadspire, a division of Crawford & Co. and provider of claims-management solutions to the risk-management and insurance industry. She previously worked as a sales specialist and account manager at Hill-Rom Home Care in Charleston, S.C.

A certified case manager prior to her retirement, Oleksak-Sposito holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from American International College in Springfield and a diploma in nursing from the Cooley Dickinson Hospital School of Nursing in Northampton. Her term ends March 1, 2022.

Sattler is senior vice president, Commercial Lending, at Savings Institute Bank & Trust. He is responsible for managing and growing the bank’s commercial-banking business, including lending, leasing, and deposit accounts throughout the Greater Springfield and Enfield, Conn. areas. He has more than 35 years of experience in commercial banking at various institutions in the region. Prior to joining Savings Institute Bank & Trust, Sattler served as president of NUVO Bank & Trust Co. (now known as Community Bank N.A.)

He serves on the board of directors of Mason Wright Senior Living Community, Rotary Club of Chicopee, and the Western Massachusetts Boy Scouts of America. He is an associate member of the National Tool & Die Assoc.

Sattler graduated from Springfield College with a bachelor’s degree in political science and history, with a minor in business administration. He also graduated from the ABA Commercial Lending Banking School at the University of New Hampshire. His term ends March 1, 2021.

HCC Foundation Offers More Than $200,000 in College Scholarships

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — More than $200,000 in scholarships is available for new, current, and transferring Holyoke Community College (HCC) students for the 2018-19 academic year.

Students must be currently enrolled at HCC or have been accepted for the upcoming academic year to be eligible for scholarships, which are awarded through the HCC Foundation. Last year, for the 2017-18 academic year, the HCC Foundation awarded scholarships to more than 200 students.

For more information or to fill out the online application, visit www.hcc.edu/scholarships. The application deadline is Wednesday, March 21. For more information, call the HCC Foundation scholarship office at (413) 552-2182 or visit the Institutional Advancement office in Donahue 170 on the HCC campus, 303 Homestead Ave., Holyoke.

UMass Hosting Summit of Region’s Campus Dining Programs

By
Daily News

BOSTON — College and university food service leaders from across New England will come together to identify and develop methods for the sourcing, preparation, and delivery of more regionally produced food during the inaugural New England Farm to Campus Summit today and Friday, Feb. 15-16, at the University of Massachusetts Club, One Beacon St., Boston.

Twenty-five schools, including Harvard, Yale, Boston College, University of Vermont, MIT, and Amherst College, will participate in the gathering hosted by UMass Amherst Dining Services to explore ways to expand the Northeast regional food system. Speakers from several organizations will present research and survey findings specific to the importance of resilient regional food systems, best efforts for purchasing, and creating a metric-based system for each state.

UMass Dining Services, in partnership with the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, has been actively involved in rebuilding a healthy food system in New England over the last 10 years.

“By the year 2060, 50% of the food consumed here will be produced here, and done so in a way that supports healthy food for all, sustainable farming and fishing, and thriving communities,” said Andy Kendall, executive director of the Kendall Foundation.

The leadership summit aligns with the New England Food Vision for 2060, and hopes to unify common sourcing goals with all food-service leaders involved.

Ken Toong, executive director of Auxiliary Enterprises at UMass Amherst, has high hopes for the event. “It is both comforting and exciting to be able to bring a group of over 25 top food-service leaders into one room with the intention of leaving with one common goal of building a strong and sustainable regional food movement.”

Presenters will include Arlin Wasserman of Changing Tastes, Marie Molde of Datassential, Kendall, and the leadership team at UMass Dining Services.

O & P Labs Hosting Grand Opening of New Prosthetic Center Today

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — O & P Labs announced the grand opening of its Prosthetic Center at 3500 Main St. in Springfield today, Feb. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. The local prosthetic company has been serving Western and Central Mass., Northern Conn., and Southern Vermont for more than 30 years.

“We employ the most advanced technology and precise systems available,” said owner Jim Haas. “However, it is our team’s dedication to helping every patient through their individual process — before, during, and after an amputation — that is the backbone of our company.”

O & P Labs is best known for its local, state-or-the-art fabrication lab, which allows patients to receive fittings, repairs, and adjustments quickly. The 3D printer decreases production time, and digital scanning technology creates highly customized prosthetic sockets. “Having had my last prosthesis for over 10 years, it was difficult to imagine just how much better the function would be,” said O & P Labs patient Kara Stokowski.

Deadline for 40 Under Forty Nominations Extended Until Feb. 19

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest magazine has extended the deadline for 40 Under Forty nominations through the end of the work day (5 p.m.) on Monday, Feb 19. The annual program, now in its 12th year, recognizes rising stars within the Western Mass. community, which includes Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties.

This year’s group of 40, to be chosen by five independent judges, will be profiled in the magazine’s April 30 edition. The nomination form, which can be found online at businesswest.com/40-under-forty-nomination-form, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community.

The winners will be toasted at the 40 Under Forty gala at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke. The lavish cocktail party, to be held on Thursday, June 21 starting at 5:30 p.m., will feature butlered hors d’oeuvres, food stations, and entertainment — and, of course, the presentation of the class of 2018. Also, the fourth Continued Excellence Award honoree will be announced. Tickets will go on sale in April. For more information, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or e-mail [email protected].

Bulkley Richardson Announces Partner Hire, Promotions

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Bulkley Richardson announced that Seunghee Cha and Jodi Miller have been promoted to partner, and Mary Bonzagni has joined the firm as partner as well.

In her comprehensive estate-planning practice, Cha assists individuals and families from all walks of life, with a particular focus on special-needs planning for individuals living with intellectual, developmental, and age-related disabilities; conservatorship and alternatives; estate settlement; and trust administration.

Miller focuses her practice on commercial and other civil litigation, including class actions, as well as regulatory matters. She has a particular expertise in the area of health law and also represents public and privately held corporations, financial institutions, schools and universities, nonprofits, and individuals in a range of litigation matters.

Bonzagni has an established reputation in the field of intellectual property. Her work involves prosecuting, defending, and licensing patents for a wide variety of inventions, as well as challenging the patentability of both pre-grant and post-grant patents in a number of countries and regions. In-depth experience as a chemist has equipped her with a unique perspective and allows her to provide clients with both legal and scientific strategies. She also advises businesses on strategic aspects of trademark, copyright, and trade-secret protection.

HNE Gives Food Bank $30,000 to Support Puerto Rican Evacuees

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Daily News

HATFIELD — The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts announced it has received a $30,000 grant award from Health New England to support Puerto Rican evacuees settling in Western Mass. following Hurricane Maria. The Food Bank has been collaborating with community organizations throughout the region to provide evacuees with their most basic need: food.

The grant award will fund the food needs of the two designated welcome centers with the greatest influx of new people: Springfield Family Resource Center and Enlace de Familias Resource Center of Holyoke.

“We are very grateful for Health New England’s support in providing us this valuable grant,” explained Andrew Morehouse, executive director of the Food Bank. “As we face these unprecedented challenges, we are reminded that it is going to take all of us, working together, to strengthen our community. It is through these partnerships that we are able to feed our neighbors in need.”

Since evacuees began arriving in Western Mass. last October, the Food Bank has been working with these local organizations to ensure everyone has access to healthy food. It has been making weekly deliveries to Enlace de Familias to provide food for approximately 125 families per week. The provisions of canned fruit and vegetables, soup, rice, beans, cereal, pasta, peanut butter, and other staples afford families nourishment as they get themselves settled. The Food Bank has also been delivering food weekly to the Springfield Family Resource Center. Additionally, its agency-relations team has been connecting families with other local partner feeding programs so they can continue to access healthy food, and SNAP coordinators have been on site in Holyoke, enrolling evacuees to receive federal SNAP food benefits.

Holyoke Soup Debuts at New Location on Feb. 15

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — After a recent snow cancellation, Holyoke Soup, a community-based, crowd-funding, idea-generating offshoot of SPARK Holyoke, will debut at its new location at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute on Thursday, Feb. 15, at 5:30 p.m.

Holyoke Soup is a dinner celebrating and supporting creative and entrepreneurial projects in Holyoke. For $5, attendees receive soup, salad, and bread while listening to presentations about business, art, urban agriculture, social justice, social programs, education, technology, and much more. Contestants have four minutes each to pitch their ideas, and audience members vote for the pitch they like best. Whoever receives the most votes collects the money from that evening.

The new location of Holyoke Soup represents an increased collaboration between the SPARK entrepreneurship program and Holyoke Community College. The HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, at 164 Race St., opened Jan. 22.

“We’re really excited to be able to work with HCC and utilize its new culinary facility, bringing a new level of excitement to this great community event that always brings a diverse group of people together,” said SPARK Program Manager Tessa Murphy-Romboletti.

Dinner will be prepared and served by students from the culinary-arts programs at HCC and Dean Technical High School. HCC students and faculty will be conducting tours of the new facility, and local entrepreneurs will also be showcasing their businesses and selling their products at pop-up shops featured throughout the evening.

“There is great synergy in SPARK’s endeavor and HCC’s mission, so we are delighted to be able to offer our new Culinary Arts Institute as a resource,” said Jeffrey Hayden, HCC vice president of Business and Community Services. “We can’t wait to see the new opportunities that will certainly emerge from this partnership.”

The event is open to the public for a $5 donation. Anyone interested in attending is asked to register online at bit.ly/2BQ2nwa.

SPARK Holyoke is a program of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Centennial Foundation.

Professional Drywall Construction Inc. Transfers Ownership

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Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Professional Drywall Construction Inc. (PDC) recently transferred ownership of the company to two of its employees. Ron Perry and Nick Shaink are now carrying on founder John Kendzierski’s legacy as a leading commercial drywall contractor in Southwestern New England. Former owner John Kendzierski will remain on the board of directors as a consultant.

PDC will continue to operate from its West Springfield office, but in order to better serve the construction industry in Connecticut, it recently opened a second office in South Norwalk, Conn. The new location allows PDC to react more quickly to requests from Connecticut customers and provide additional on-site consultation in the Southern Conn. area.

Affiliated with the carpenters and laborers union since 1997, PDC has grown to become a regional firm with more than employees, working in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. PDC is pre-qualified to work in both Massachusetts and Connecticut, and has a bonding capacity of up to $35 million, enabling it to accommodate virtually any size project.

Advertising Club 2018 Scholarship Applications Available

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts scholarship committee announced that scholarship applications are now available online at adclubwm.org. Applications will also be available through guidance departments at high schools in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, or by contacting the Ad Club at (413) 736-2582.

In 2018, one $1,000 scholarship will be awarded. Western Mass. seniors who plan to attend an accredited college or technical school to study advertising, communications, marketing, or graphics arts and will be attending in September 2018 are encouraged to apply. The scholarship must be applied against tuition and fees at the school. Candidates will be judged on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community service and/or work experience; a demonstrated interest in advertising, communications, marketing, or graphic design; personal recommendations; and a letter of introduction outlining future plans.

Completed scholarship applications and all support materials must be submitted to the Ad Club and postmarked by Friday, March 30. Scholarship decisions are made by the scholarship committee of the Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts, and are considered final. The scholarship will be awarded at the Ad Club’s Creative Awards show in May.

PV Squared Welcomes Five New Worker-owners

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Daily News

GREENFIELD — PV Squared, a worker-owned cooperative and certified B Corp solar-installation company located in Greenfield, recently welcomed five new worker-owners to the ownership team. Each of the new worker-owners — Daniel Berry, Daniel Gomez, Doug Dedischew, Elliot Henry, and Ian Tapscott — has worked at PV Squared for at least two years before being promoted to worker-owner.

PV Squared started with four co-owners in 2002 and has since grown to 44 employees, 24 of whom are worker-owners. “One of our founding principles is that we are stronger together, and as such, we’re excited to see the shared leadership and ownership of our business grow,” said Andy Toomajian, who works on the Design & Sales team.

There are thousands of worker-owned cooperatives around the world, and that number is growing. The cooperative model reflects a growing movement to create an economic and social alternative to ‘business as usual.’ In a worker-owned cooperative, the people who do the work make the decisions together, instead of having them handed down from an executive. It’s a think-on-your-feet model that allows workers to offer their perspective, suggest alternative methods, and affect real change in practices.

“Being worker-owned is in our company’s DNA; it defines how we work with each on a daily basis, how we measure our impact in the communities we serve, and gives us purpose in the work we do,” said Stacy Metzger, general manager. “Every member of the PV Squared team has a direct stake not only in the success of the business and the clients’ businesses and homes, but also in the communities we serve.”

PV Squared provides renewable-energy solutions to a wide range of clients, including business owners, commercial property owners, academic institutions, and homeowners in Western Mass. and surrounding regions.

Friday Is Nomination Deadline for 40 Under Forty

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest magazine will accept nominations for the 40 Under Forty Class of 2018 through the end of the work day (5 p.m.) on Friday, Feb 16. The annual program, now in its 12th year, recognizes rising stars within the Western Mass. community, which includes Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties.

This year’s group of 40, to be chosen by five independent judges, will be profiled in the magazine’s April 30 edition. The nomination form, which can be found online at businesswest.com/40-under-forty-nomination-form, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community.

The winners will be toasted at the 40 Under Forty gala at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke. The lavish cocktail party, to be held on Thursday, June 21 starting at 5:30 p.m., will feature butlered hors d’oeuvres, food stations, and entertainment — and, of course, the presentation of the class of 2018. Also, the third Continued Excellence Award honoree will be announced. Tickets will go on sale in April. For more information, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or e-mail [email protected].

Take Care to Prepare: A Guide to Senior Planning

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Guide to Senior Planning Special Publications

A New Specialty Publication of Healthcare News & BusinessWest

The specialty guide is intended to serve as a roadmap, containing a glossary of terms, worksheets, lists and thoughtful questions specific to senior living planning.

Featured Sections: 

  • Senior Living Options
  • Estate Planning
  • Paying for Care
  • Transitioning
  • Resources

This specialty publication will be featured in the May 28 issue of BusinessWest and the June issue of Healthcare News and online as an interactive flipbook. Sponsorship & advertising opportunities are available.

Click for Sponsorship Opportunities
Click for Advertising Opportunities
 
For more information and print ad rates contact:
Kate Campiti 413.781.8600 (ext. 104) [email protected]
Kathleen Plante 413.781.8600 (ext. 108) [email protected]

 

 

Workshop to Address Pricing and Positioning a Business for Sale

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Attention all business owners: if you plan to retire, or think you might someday want to change gears in your life, you will eventually be faced with the task of selling or transferring ownership of your business.

With this in mind, Philip Steckler and Eric Lineback of Country Business Inc. (CBI) will present a workshop titled “Maximize the Value of Your Business: Properly Pricing and Positioning Your Business For Sale” on Friday, March 16 from 9 to 11:30 
a.m. at Holyoke Public Library.

CBI, a business-brokerage and merger-and-acquisition firm, has managed the sales of more than 1,200 businesses since 1976, with sale prices ranging from a few hundred thousand dollars to $30 million, including local businesses Quabbin Industries, New England Wetland Plants, Danco Modern, Bart’s Ice Cream, and Graphic Printing.

Steckler and Lineback will introduce business owners to topics such as maximizing the value of a business, properly pricing and positioning a business for sale, attracting qualified buyers, minimizing taxes, and maintaining confidentiality. Additional topics covered will include analyzing a business’ strengths and weaknesses, understanding the marketplace, valuing a business and properly setting the purchase price and terms, and more.

This will be an interactive workshop, and questions and discussion will be welcome.

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. Promotes Christine Devin

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. announced the promotion of Christine Devin, CPA, to manager in its Audit and Accounting department.

In her new position, Devin will be responsible for the management of audit and review engagements for the firm’s not-for-profit, commercial, and pension clients. In addition, she will assist with the management of the not-for-profit niche, which encompasses the supervision and training of staff, client relations, firm protocol, and regulatory updates. She rejoined MBK in 2015 as a senior associate.

With nine years of experience as a controller of a closely held business and more than eight years of public accounting experience, Devin combines a deep understanding of the operations, financial reporting, and regulatory requirements of the private sector with the technical expertise of a CPA.

“Christine’s time as a controller allows her to bring a unique perspective to her role,” said MBK Partner James Barrett. “She relates first-hand to many of the challenges our clients face on a day-to-day basis and leverages that understanding to enhance the client service experience. Combined with her extensive experience in public accounting, Christine brings a big-picture approach to each client project, which we believe our clients, and staff, will find highly valuable.”

Devin received her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Elms College. She is a member of the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Phillips Insurance Funds Scholarships to American Legion Boys State

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — Phillips Insurance Agency Inc. announced it is funding three scholarships to the 2018 American Legion Boys State at Stonehill College in June. The one-week, overnight program focuses on understanding one’s responsibilities and rights in the democratic process. Participants establish a mock government, complete courses in economics, and participate in elections. Founded in 1935, past participants include some of the most prominent names in the country, including former President Bill Clinton, movie critic Roger Ebert, and basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan.

“We are thrilled to have Phillips Insurance be such a generous and enthusiastic supporter of Boys State,” said Delfo Barabani Jr., District Three Boys State chairman.

Joseph Phillips, president of Phillips Insurance, noted that “my son Connor attended Boys State in 2016 and had a positive experience, so we decided to reach out to Delfo and provide the same opportunity to other students so they could benefit from this unique program and help prepare them for college and beyond.”

Phillips Insurance Agency was established in 1953 and is a full-service risk-management firm with a staff of 25 professionals. The agency handles the personal and commercial insurance needs for thousands of individuals and businesses throughout New England.

Michelle Theroux Takes Helm of South Hadley & Granby Chamber

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Daily News

SOUTH HADLEY — Michelle Theroux of the Berkshire Hills Music Academy was installed as president of the South Hadley & Granby Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 23. The election of officers and directors took place at the Willits-Hallowell Center.

The other officers elected were Dina Mead, vice president; Jessica Bodon, clerk; and Alexandra Wern-LaFlamme, treasurer. New or returning directors elected that evening were Carol Constant, Mead, Darren Thomas, and Wearn-Laflamme. The election was followed by special presentations by Michaeline Turgeon on behalf of Granby’s 250th celebration in June; and Sean Condon for the River Roll and Stroll on May 6 on the bridge between Holyoke and South Hadley.

After the business portion of the evening, Theroux introduced keynote speaker George O’Brien, editor of BusinessWest, who entertained and informed the gathering with his tales from his years in journalism and his insights into the business world in the Pioneer Valley, past, present, and future.

Dowd Hires Mary Russell as Commercial Lines Account Manager

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — The Dowd Agencies, LLC announced that Mary Russell has been hired as commercial lines account manager.



“We are expanding our team at the Dowd Agencies and are pleased to welcome Mary to our dynamic team of professionals,” said John E. Dowd Jr., president and CEO. “With nearly a decade of insurance experience, Mary’s expertise and commitment to customer service will benefit our customers.”



As commercial lines account manager, Russell manages a roster of insurance clients and supports producers with a variety of initiatives. She came to the Dowd Agencies from a local agency, where she was a personal lines account manager. She received her associate degree in psychology from Holyoke Community College.



“I strive to provide the best possible customer service to all of my clients, and am proud to join a company like the Dowd Agencies that places such a high priority on this as well,” said Russell, who will be based in the company’s home office in Holyoke. “I look forward to furthering their mission while also continuing my education.”


HCC Welcomes New Affirmative Action Officer/Title IX Coordinator

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College recently welcomed Nicholas D’Agostino as its new Affirmative Action officer and Title IX coordinator.



D’Agostino comes to HCC after working for nearly 12 years as an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action professional in Connecticut, most recently as the associate in Diversity and Equity at Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) and before that as an EEO specialist with the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. He started at HCC on Jan. 29.



“I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the HCC team,” said D’Agostino. “Taking the leap to leave one institution to join another is never easy, but I believe HCC was the right choice for me. I look forward to building upon HCC’s strong foundation and hope to contribute in a meaningful way to the future of the college and our community.”



A longtime advocate for equity and social justice with a focus on LGBTQ issues, D’Agostino has been an Anti-Defamation League anti-bullying trainer for more than 10 years and has a long association with True Colors, a support and advocacy group in Hartford for LGBTQ youth, which he has served as board president. He has either led or participated in hundreds of affirmative-action and discrimination investigations during his career.



At CCSU, D’Agostino conducted awareness and advocacy programs, promoted social-justice initiatives, engaged the college community in sexual-harassment and assault prevention, and led training sessions on diversity, Title IX compliance, anti-racism, and LGBTQ awareness. Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender in federally funded education programs.



D’Agostino holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Quinnipiac University and a master’s degree in counselor education with a specialization in student development in higher education from CCSU.


Tighe & Bond Publishes 2017 Water and Sewer Rate Survey Results

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Daily News

WESTFIELD — Tighe & Bond published the results of its most recent Massachusetts Water and Sewer Rate Survey. Since 1997, Tighe & Bond has gathered and published Massachusetts water and sewer user rate data that municipal government and private water suppliers can use as a benchmarking tool for comparing their rates against other suppliers in the state.



The survey, conducted across the state during 2017, includes typical annual homeowner water and sewer costs for most systems throughout Massachusetts. It also provides information regarding rate structures and billing cycles. This can be particularly useful information when suppliers are considering adjustments to their current rates or rate structures.



Tighe & Bond is now teaming with the Environmental Finance Center at the University of North Carolina School of Government to present the results of the firm’s rate study using a free, online rates dashboard developed, hosted and maintained by the center. This gives users more flexibility in examining the survey data. Users can adjust the assumed annual usage the comparison is based on, review conservation and affordability metrics, as well as compare annual bills. They can also compare rates by utility size, river basin, geographic area, and median household income.



The 2017 water survey indicates that annual water costs in in Massachusetts range from a low of $123 to a high of $2,025. The 2017 average is $595, and the median is $568. Sixty-five percent of survey respondents have increased their rates since the 2014 survey.



The 2017 sewer survey indicates that annual sewer costs in in Massachusetts range from a low of $229 to a high of $2,316. The 2017 average is $862, and the median is $838. Three-quarters of survey respondents have increased their rates since the 2014 survey.



Anyone can access the online rates dashboard, or request a copy of these survey results, by visiting www.tighebond.com/category/rate-surveys.



One of the most commonly reported challenges facing water systems across Massachusetts and throughout New England is aging infrastructure. A rate structure designed to provide sustainable revenue for operations and capital programs is critical to ensure reliable, safe drinking water and effective sewer and fire protection. Tighe & Bond’s “Water Insights” blog located at www.tighebond.com/category/water-insights features numerous articles supporting municipal and water-company concerns.


Berkshire Bank Foundation Grants Nearly $2 Million in 2017

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Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced that its foundation awarded a total of $1,995,462 in grants to nonprofit organizations operating in the bank’s footprint in 2017. The grants supported a variety of education and community-development initiatives as well as health, human-service, and cultural programs. In all, 556 organizations benefited from the funding.



“Our grants impacted more than 5.8 million individuals in 2017 helping to enhance economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for members of our community,” said Lori Gazzillo, senior vice president and foundation director. “We believe that, by investing in what can be, we can transform possibilities into a brighter reality for the people and places we serve.”



The foundation offers multiple grant programs, each with their own guidelines, programmatic criteria, and desired outcomes. In 2018, the foundation will again accept proposals for education programs that help individuals become college-, career-, and job-ready. They also plan to accept proposals for economic-development programs that create thriving places to live, work, and raise a family. Applications for these grant programs are due by April 1, July 1, and Oct. 1. In addition to these two programs, the foundation will offer two requests for proposals focusing on nonprofit capacity and basic needs. Additional details about the foundation’s guidelines and application process can be found online at www.berkshirebank.com/giving.


Opinion: MassMutual Makes a Bold Statement

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Daily News

It wasn’t so long ago when people were questioning MassMutual’s commitment to Springfield.
In fact, by last summer, the drumbeat that the financial-services giant was in some ways turning its back on the city were getting pretty loud.



That was after a number of workforce reductions and the departure of its Barings subsidiary, leaving considerable vacant space in Tower Square, and then the announcement that Tower Square itself, the office tower and retail center that MassMutual built nearly a half-century earlier, was going on the market.



MassMutualThe company, which has had a presence in the city for more than 160 years, pretty much put all that speculation to rest on Thursday when it announced a major expansion in Massachusetts, including a $50 million expansion of its facilities in Springfield. The company will close its Enfield facility and move the 1,500 or so people there to Springfield; overall, the number of people the company employs in Springfield will rise from 3,000 to 4,500.



MassMutual is closing other offices in North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania, and plans to build a new Boston campus on Fan Pier that will employ about 500 people.



It’s not Amazon and its second headquarters facility (Boston is still in the running for that), but it’s major victory for both Massachusetts and Springfield.



Indeed, MassMutual’s bold announcement says a lot about the attractiveness of the Bay State as a home for business (it has gone a very long way toward losing the tag ‘Taxachusetts’), and also about its commitment to the city and its future.



On one level, the company’s moves come down to consolidating, cost-cutting, and making the most of its existing infrastructure. But it could have done this in many ways and in any one of several states and cities.



It chose the Bay State and Springfield for a host of reasons, from the quality of the workforce to incentives provided by the state, to a commitment to the city (Springfield) where it was founded.



Moving forward, this move will become still another strong selling point for Boston and the state as it pursues Amazon and a host of other corporate giants (it landed GE two years ago). And it will give Springfield something else to boast about as it continues its revitalization and prepares to move aggressively to tell that story to the rest of the world.



Like we said, those questions about MassMutual and its commitment to Springfield have been put to rest in dramatic fashion.


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