Home Blog Left SidebarPage 2
Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia with Royal
Picture This

Picture This

By

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

 

Royal Sendoff

Students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, elected officials, and community members gathered at Holyoke Community College on May 3 to celebrate the leadership and legacy of retiring President Christina Royal. Among those in attendance was Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia (pictured below right with Royal), who delivered a proclamation recognizing her service to the city. Royal’s last day at HCC will be July 14. George Timmons will begin his service as HCC’s fifth president in June.

Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia with Royal

Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia with Royal

 

from left) state Sen. John Velis, Holyoke Director of Planning and Economic Development Aaron Vega, and state Rep. Pat Duffy.

from left) state Sen. John Velis, Holyoke Director of Planning and Economic Development Aaron Vega, and state Rep. Pat Duffy.

 

 

Kentucky Derby Party

On May 5, the Armory at MGM Springfield was the setting for hats, horses, and hors d’oeuvres to celebrate the 149th Kentucky Derby. The annual fundraiser for Square One was presented by lead sponsors PeoplesBank, USI Insurance, Alekman DiTusa, Baystate Health/Health New England, and Meridian Industrial Group. (Photos by Chris Marion Photography)

From left, Jenny MacKay of USI Insurance Services and Rob DiTusa and Ryan Alekman of Alekman DiTusa

From left, Jenny MacKay of USI Insurance Services and Rob DiTusa and Ryan Alekman of Alekman DiTusa

 

Jennifer Yergeau of PeoplesBank (left) with Kristine Allard, Square One’s vice president of Development & Communication

Jennifer Yergeau of PeoplesBank (left) with Kristine Allard, Square One’s vice president of Development & Communication

 

 

Exciting Chapter

On May 4, Link to Libraries hosted its signature biennial fundraising event at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In addition to raising $109,000, this year’s celebration marked a huge milestone for the nonprofit: the donation of its 1 millionth book to a child and school in need.

Susan Jaye-Kaplan, co-founder of Link to Libraries

Susan Jaye-Kaplan, co-founder of Link to Libraries, presents the millionth book to Mary Fitzgerald, librarian from Springfield’s Warner School, which was the first school to receive books from Link to Libraries when it was founded in 2008

 

U.S. Rep. Richard Neal with Laurie Flynn

U.S. Rep. Richard Neal with Laurie Flynn, president and CEO of Link to Libraries

 

 

Dealer of the Year

On May 4, Gary Rome Hyundai hosted the TIME Dealer of the Year Celebration, a reception honoring the company, which TIME magazine chose from a field of more than 16,000 dealerships nationwide. (Photos by Ivy Pohl)

Gary Rome (center)

Gary Rome (center) with Gary Gilchrist, vice chairman of the National Automobile Dealers Assoc., Jeff Jenkins and Keith Cail of Ally, Robert O’Koniewski of the Massachusetts State Auto Dealers Assoc., and, of course, Daisy

 

Rome greets (from left) Sister Mary Caritas SP, Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, and his Chief of Staff Jon D’Angelo

Rome greets (from left) Sister Mary Caritas SP, Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, and his Chief of Staff Jon D’Angelo

 

 

 

Court Dockets

Court Dockets

By

The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.

 

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

 

Emanuel Diaz and Netsy Diaz v. Saltmarsh Brothers Construction Inc.

Allegation: Breach of contract: $61,500

Filed: 4/12/23

 

 

Xiao Xin Zhang v. Springfield Area Transit Authority Inc. d/b/a Satco

Allegation: Negligence causing personal injury and property damage: $179,479

Filed: 4/12/23

 

Trickstar Trumbling & Fitness LLC v. Westmass Area Development Corp.

Allegation: Breach of lease: $100,000

Filed: 4/13/23

 

Faspac Plastikes Inc. v. East Baking Co. Inc.

Allegation: Money owed for goods sold and delivered: $173,512.67

Filed: 4/17/23

 

Homestesd Baking Co. v. East Baking Co. Inc.

Allegation: Money owed for goods sold and delivered: $204,357.36

Filed: 5/2/23

 

Ken Lansing SC LLC v. Whiting Building LLC, Friedman Real Estate, and CWFS-REDS LLC d/b/a Realinsight Market

Allegation: Breach of real-estate contract: $104,742

Filed: 5/12/23

 

Agenda

Agenda

By

Free Music Fridays

May 26 to Sept. 8: Live music returns to MGM Springfield with the new and expanded Free Music Fridays concert series. Every Friday from May 26 to Sept. 8, some of the area’s most popular bands and national artists will perform on the Plaza at MGM Springfield in the city’s South End, starting at 7:30 p.m. (weather permitting). Kicking off the 2023 series is the popular Pink Floyd tribute band Brain Damage. Additional local favorites such as Trailer Trash, Brass Attack, Back in Black, and Aquanett, among others, are scheduled to perform throughout the summer. MGM Springfield will also welcome new additions to the Free Music Fridays lineup, including local light Brynn Cartelli, season 14 winner of The Voice. Also debuting on the Plaza stage is Zac Brown tribute band Zac N’Fried; Springfield based R&B, soul, and hip-hop group Malado!; and national pop and hip-hop band LFO. MGM Springfield will continue its partnership with White Lion Brewing Co. to provide guests with a wide selection of craft beer during each Free Music Fridays concert. The series will also feature local food trucks, including North Elm Butchers Block, Batch Ice Cream, Cousins Maine Lobster, Las Kangris, and many more.

 

You Ball Fundraising Gala

June 1: The Springfield Pride Parade organization announced the inaugural You Ball Fundraising Gala, taking place at 6 p.m. in MGM Springfield’s Aria Ballroom. With a Met Gala-inspired Fabergè egg theme, the You Ball will celebrate the diverse beauty, uniqueness, and prestige of the LGBTQIA+ community. The gala will feature music, dining options, performances, and conversations with parade organizers and Springfield city officials. Proceeds from the You Ball Fundraising Gala will directly support the Springfield Pride Parade organization’s Safe Space program, which provides Springfield public-school students with a safe environment to effectively communicate, build self-confidence, work on their social and emotional skills, develop healthy relationships, and focus on community engagement. Sponsored by MassMutual, MGM Springfield, Springfield Technical Community College, and the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services, the event aims to be an inspirational evening to celebrate and honor the region’s LGBTQIA+ and ally business owners, professionals, and community leaders. For more information on You Ball tickets, table sponsorships, and gala program marketing inquiries, visit www.springfieldprideparade.org/youball.

 

Hospice of the Fisher Home Golf Tournament

June 2: Hospice of the Fisher Home will host its seventh annual par-3 golf tournament at Amherst Golf Club. Tee times will be scheduled beginning at 1 p.m. Tournament sponsors include Greenfield Savings Bank, Kuhn Riddle Architects, Amherst Insurance Agency, Florence Savings Bank, Studley Do Right Cleaning, M.J. Moran, and Northampton Cooperative Bank. The tournament is one of Hospice of the Fisher Home’s largest fundraisers, supporting the compassionate, comprehensive, and supportive end-of-life care it provides to individuals and their loved ones, in their homes or at the Fisher Home’s nine-bed residence in Amherst. According to Maria Rivera, executive director of Hospice of the Fisher Home, support of this year’s golf tournament is especially important because funds raised will also go toward the replacement of the home’s HVAC system. Visit www.fisherhome.org/event-info/7th-annual-golf-tournament-registration-4 for sponsorship information or to register a foursome.

 

Purse & Power Tool Bingo Fundraiser

June 2: Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) will hold a Purse & Power Tool Bingo fundraiser from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus on 371 Washington Road, Enfield, Conn. Event participants will enjoy 10 rounds of bingo, each with the opportunity to win a designer handbag or a power tool. Registration fees will support JAWM programs and events for youth throughout Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties. Guests are welcome to bring food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy, and there will be a cash bar. Registration costs $40 per person, which includes 10 bingo cards and a dauber. Raffle tickets and extra cards will also be available for purchase. Admission must be purchased in advance through paypal.me/2MomsOnAMission or via Venmo @Two-MomsOnA-Mission. Include the date of the event when purchasing tickets.

 

Western Mass Eldercare Conference

June 8: The 31st annual Western Mass Eldercare Conference will take place at the Kittredge Center at Holyoke Community College. Registration is open at jgslifecare.org/wmecc. All workshop descriptions are on the website so attendees can plan their day. Keynote addresses include “Cultural Humility: Moving Beyond the Principles and into Authentic Practice” by Dora and Frank Robinson and “Old Age Ain’t for Sissies” by Judith Black. Organizations with multiple people attending can pay by check if they want to; all checks need to be postmarked by May 31 in order to be registered for the conference. This program has submitted for approval to meet the requirements of the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing at 244 CMR 5.00 for six contact hours.

 

Free Shred Days

June 10, Sept. 23, Oct. 14: Monson Savings Bank announced it will once again host free community shred days in 2023. All are welcome to attend. As in previous years, Monson Savings Bank is partnering up with PROSHRED of Wilbraham for this series of events welcoming the public to discard their documents in a safe and secure manner. This is an ideal opportunity to dispose of unwanted documents such as tax returns, bank or credit-card statements, bills, and medical records. Pre-packaged refreshments and giveaways will be available while supplies last. Shred days are scheduled for Saturday, June 10 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Hampden branch, 15 Somers Road; Saturday, Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Ware branch, 136 West St.; and Saturday, Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Wilbraham branch, 100 Post Office Park.

 

40 Under Forty

June 15: BusinessWest will host the annual 40 Under Forty Gala at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke. One of the most anticipated events of the year, the gala will celebrate the class of 2023, which was announced and profiled in the May 1 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com. The gala will feature a VIP hour for the honorees and sponsors, networking, the presentation of the Alumni Achievement Award, and introduction of members of the class of 2023. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit businesswest.com. This year’s 40 Under Forty presenting sponsor is PeoplesBank, and the 40 Under Forty Alumni Achievement Award presenting sponsor is Health New England. Partner sponsors include Comcast Business, Live Nation, the Markens Group, MGM Springfield, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, the UMass Amherst Isenberg School of Management, and Webber & Grinnell Insurance.

 

sheLEADS Conference

June 16: The Chamber of Greater Easthampton announced its upcoming women’s leadership conference, sheLEADS, to be held at Williston Northampton School, 19 Payson Ave., Easthampton. This year’s conference will feature a lineup of inspiring speakers who will share their personal stories and insights on leadership, career development, and understanding the power of knowing one’s worth. This year’s conference features two keynote speakers: Sabrina Antoine Correia, vice president of Public Engagement and Corporate Responsibility for New England, JPMorgan Chase; and Lindsay Barron LaBonte, branch manager, Applied Mortgage. Correia will discuss “Advocating for Yourself and Your Ideas,” and LaBonte will discuss “How I Found My Worth.” Other topics to be discussed during the conference include “Is Money Power,” a thought-provoking discussion featuring panelists Karen Curran of Curran & Keegan Financial, Diane Dukette of Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Ashleigh Beadle of Sourcepass, and Joanna Ballantine of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. Attendees will also participate in the interactive workshop “The RACI Side of Communication and Collaboration,” led by Tiffany Espinosa from Teal Executives, Mount Holyoke College. Event tickets cost $119. To register, visit business.easthamptonchamber.org/events.

 

Hooplandia

June 23-25: Registration for Hooplandia, a 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, is now open at www.hooplandia.com and includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. The tournament, presented by the Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, will take place on the grounds of ESE in West Springfield June 23-25, with special games at the Hall of Fame in Springfield. Dunkin’ was recently named presenting sponsor of the event, which is expected to attract thousands of fans and players as hundreds of games take place across more than 70 courts. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. With brackets that include veterans, first responders, youth, wheelchair athletes, college elites, and many more, there’s a spot on the court for everyone. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range from $75 to $190, with children under 8 and participants in the Special Olympics category being free of charge. Anyone interested should email [email protected]. Hooplandia welcomes participation from youth team referees, scorekeepers, Fan Village contest facilitators, and volunteers for myriad duties to help make this inaugural year a success. Those interested in participating in this groundbreaking event can fill out the volunteer form at www.hooplandia.com.

People on the Move

People on the Move

By
Candace Pereira

Candace Pereira

Florence Bank promoted Candace Pereira to the role of vice president, commercial lender. Since 2018, she has worked at Florence Bank as assistant vice president, commercial portfolio manager in the Commercial Lending department. In her new role, she will concentrate on commercial and industrial lending, as well as lending to women-owned businesses. Pereira holds an associate degree in finance from Springfield Technical Community College and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. She is currently pursuing an MBA from Isenberg as well. She began her career in banking in 2003 and has held various roles at mutually held and stockholder-owned banks in Western Mass., in both residential and commercial lending. Recently named an ambassador for the Springfield Regional Chamber, Pereira is also a member of the BusinessWest 40 Under Forty class of 2017, and she attended the Springfield Leadership Institute. She has served on various local boards over the last several years and has also volunteered as an athletic coach in East Longmeadow, where her daughter is a student.

•••••

Dennis Gober, a longtime executive in hospital management, has been named chief operating officer of MiraVista Behavioral Health Center. Gober served previously as CEO in Oklahoma of Cedar Ridge Behavioral Hospital, whose campus in Oklahoma City provides inpatient psychiatric and residential services to children and adolescents, and its Bethany campus, which serves the mental-health needs of adults. Cedar Ridge is part of Universal Health Services, one of the largest providers of hospital and healthcare services in the country. Gober, who holds a master’s degree in community counseling, has held several other senior-level positions, CEO for Acadia Healthcare’s Rolling Hills Hospital in Ada, Okla., which provides mental-health and substance-use services for adolescents, adults, and seniors, and division director of community-based youth services for the state of Oklahoma. As a licensed behavioral practioner, Gober also served as the Director of the Community Works’ Norman Academy Day Treatment Program leading treatment teams, and providing individual, group, and family therapy. He received a master of education degree in community counseling and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Oklahoma.

•••••

Leanne Martin

Leanne Martin

BFAIR announced it has promoted Leanne Martin to assistant director of Day Habilitation. Martin began working for BFAIR in 2014 as a direct-care professional at the agency’s Day Habilitation program located in North Adams. In 2020, she was promoted to case manager for the Community Based Day Services (CBDS) program and later to the Day Habilitation program in the same role. In her new role, Martin is responsible for the everyday operation of the Day Habilitation program, which is designed to support members and their unique needs to increase independence and socialization, helping them participate as active and fully integrated members of their community.

Company Notebook

Company Notebook

By

Elms Receives $1 Million to Expand Two Programs

CHICOPEE — U.S. Rep. Richard Neal recently joined Elms College President Harry Dumay to announce a $1 million earmark to expand the education and social work programs at Elms College. The allocation was made possible through congressionally directed spending from the U.S. Department of Education. Neal included funding for this project in the FY 2023 spending bill that was signed into law on Dec. 29, 2022. With this funding, Elms College will address community workforce development by expanding its education and social work programs. This expansion will include investments in the Center for Equity in Urban Education at Elms College, which was created to bolster educator talent and diversity through innovative programs that target existing and aspiring educators. Funding will also be used to invest in the master’s in social work program in an effort to address the shortage of social workers in the Greater Springfield community.

 

AIC Signs Housing Agreements to Benefit HCC, STCC Students

HOLYOKE — Representatives from American International College (AIC) and Holyoke Community College recently signed a historic agreement that will allow HCC students to live in residence halls and apartments on the AIC campus in Springfield. In addition, a new agreement between AIC and Springfield Technical Community College will allow STCC students to reside in the AIC campus residence halls and apartments. The agreements call for AIC to discount its room rates for HCC and STCC students. The housing option will be offered to all students 18 and older who are enrolled full- or part-time and in good academic standing. According to the agreements, HCC and STCC students who opt to live at AIC will have access to other amenities there as well, including health services, the college library, laundry facilities, and a gym. Dining and parking plans are also available for an additional cost. There is no age limit for students, couples can live together, and campus apartments are also a possibility.

 

WNE, BCC Sign Joint Admissions Agreement

SPRINGFIELD — Berkshire Community College (BCC) signed an articulation agreement with Western New England University (WNE) on May 8, allowing BCC students to transfer seamlessly to WNE. The joint admissions program, which is consistent with the individual missions, policies, and regulations of each institution, seeks to strengthen the academic and student-support partnerships between BCC and WNE, facilitate student access to baccalaureate and graduate education, and provide barrier-free movement for students enrolled in an associate-degree program at BCC to the baccalaureate graduate degrees at WNE. Students will be informed about the opportunity to participate in the joint admissions program at the time they are applying to BCC. Students who satisfy the requirements of the joint admissions program are eligible for guaranteed acceptance to WNE, provided they complete an approved associate-degree program at BCC and meet the requirements of the joint admissions program and major-specific requirements; guarantee of junior status at WNE upon matriculation with an associate degree; and guarantee of 60 transfer credits, with some stipulations.

 

Chris Marion Celebrates Grand Opening of Studio

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield native Chris Marion celebrated the grand opening of his new Chris Marion Photography studio, located at 270 Albany St. in Springfield, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 18. The ceremony included brief remarks, with appearances by Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, City Council President Jesse Lederman, and other local dignitaries. Marion said he chose the 1,000-square-foot space to be a part of the surging Gasoline Alley section of the city and its proximity to downtown Springfield. He has also recently hosted photography workshops in the new studio.

 

UMassFive Donates Items to Local Survival Centers

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced the success of its personal-care-items drive, which was held during March in its Hadley, Northampton, and Springfield branches. The drive collected more than 365 pounds of personal-care items, which were donated to three local organizations: Amherst Survival Center, Northampton Survival Center, and the Gray House in Springfield. UMassFive is committed to supporting the communities it serves, and this drive was just one example of its ongoing efforts to give back. Members and staff at all three branches enthusiastically participated in the drive, donating a wide variety of items, such as toothpaste, shampoo, soap, menstrual products, diapers, and more.

 

Local Farm Awards Distribute $225,000 for Projects in 2023

AGAWAM — The Local Farmer Awards distributed grants totaling $225,000 to 97 farms in Western Mass. this year, a 30% increase over the number of 2022 recipients. These grants of up to $2,500 empower farmers to purchase essential equipment for planting, growing, harvesting, and processing. All projects include a funding commitment by the farm as well. The Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation, in partnership with Big Y and the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, along with 12 other funders, provide financial support for these Local Farmer Awards. Other community sponsors include Ann and Steve Davis, Charles and Elizabeth D’Amour, Audrey and Chick Taylor, PeoplesBank, the DeNucci Group at Merrill Lynch, Farm Credit East, HP Hood, Eastern States Exposition, Baystate Health, Country Bank, Franklin First Federal Credit Union, and bankESB. This year the Local Farmer Awards received a record 182 applications. Roughly two-thirds of this year’s awards went to farms in Hampshire and Franklin counties, with the remainder split between Hampden and Berkshire counties, and a few awards going to farms just across the Massachusetts border that participate in Massachusetts farming programs. About 25% of the recipients were new farmers (five or fewer years in business), and another 34% have been in business more than 20 years, many being multi-generational farms. The largest number of winners focus on vegetables and meat, while others include maple, fruit, dairy, and flower farms.

 

WSU, HCC Announce Nursing-degree Partnership

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Westfield State University (WSU) will announce a new pathway for individuals to earn both an associate and a baccalaureate degree in nursing simultaneously or in a streamlined manner by combining the curricula of both programs. The concurrent program is the first in the Commonwealth. Beginning one’s professional life as an RN with all the demands on new nurses in a post-COVID era can make it challenging to go back to school and earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. This program provides an opportunity for students to earn both their ASN and BSN credentials simultaneously before entering the workforce. The ADN-to-BSN pathway creates efficiency for students as it incorporates a joint admission process, thereby eliminating the need for students to submit a separate application for admission to the university. By facilitating the attainment of a BSN, this pathway helps to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry. The concurrent nursing program will help address the nursing shortage by increasing the number of students who can get into a bachelor of nursing program and allow them to earn their degree faster.

 

MassHire Franklin Hampshire Announces New Location

GREENFIELD — MassHire Franklin Hampshire Career Center and Workforce Board, the leading workforce-development agencies providing employment and training services to job seekers and employers in Franklin and Hampshire counties and the North Quabbin area, are moving to a new location in Greenfield. Doors will open to customers at the new location at the Greenfield Corporate Center, 101 Monson St., Suite 210, on Thursday, June 1. The new MassHire Franklin Hampshire Career Center features 13,000 square feet of modern space with state-of-the-art resources to provide in-person, virtual, and hybrid services and allows MassHire Franklin Hampshire to provide even better service to more customers. Partner agencies with a staff presence at the Career Center include the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Literacy Project, the Center for New Americans, International Language Institute of Massachusetts, Westover Job Corps, Greenfield Community College, the Senior Community Service Employment Program, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, and Community Action Pioneer Valley. Core partner Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission already has office space at the Greenfield Corporate Center.

Incorporations

Incorporations

By

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

ADAMS

Adams Street Fair Corp., 31 Winter St., Adams, MA 01220. Leann O’Brien, same. Hosts charitable events.

BELCHERTOWN

Lebeau Boudoir Inc., 20 Mountain View Dr., Belchertown, MA 01007. Ashley Lebeau, same. Photography services.

CHICOPEE

DD General Services Inc., 15 Sunnymeade Ave., Chicopee, MA 01020. Estrella Vasquez, same. General construction services including carpentry, remodeling, and renovations.

EASTHAMPTON

Easthampton Music Boosters Inc., 62 Briggs St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Shelby Hyvonen, same. Corporation is organized and will be operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes.

GREAT BARRINGTON

GJB Productions Inc., 696 South Egremont Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230. Gideon Brown, same. Video post-production services.

HOLYOKE

Changing the Narrative Inc., 98 Lower Westfield Road, Holyoke, MA 01040. Anthony Basile, same. A nonprofit organization created to provide a safe, private, musical space for children who have experienced tragic events; cultivating positive experiences by providing outings to sporting events.

LUDLOW

Law Office of Carolyne Pereira, P.C., 125 Letendre Ave., Ludlow, MA 01056. Carolyne Pereira, same. Law practice.

PALMER

Anointed to Restore Family Christian Center Church Ministries, 1430 Main St., Palmer, MA 01069. Natanael Lopez Ozuna, 1 Beacon Ave., Holyoke, MA 01069. Reaching Massachusetts, the U.S., and around the world with the message of hope and compassion of Jesus Christ.

PITTSFIELD

No Starch Press Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. William Pollock, same. Any lawful business purposes.

Big Wave Dog Rescue Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Sydney Fitzpatrick, 49 Clarissa Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824. Nonprofit organization established to reduce the population of homeless and euthanized dogs in overcrowded animal shelters; fund veterinary care, rehabilitation, and training to animals to ensure a successful adoption; provide temporary housing for animals through a volunteer foster-based program; and support local animals in need of rehoming, rehabilitation, and veterinary interventions.

Uni-Structures Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Wesley Barnes, same. Manufacturing and installation of signs and awnings for quick-service restaurants.

SPRINGFIELD

Excelone Ministries, 90 Nelson Circle West, Springfield, MA 01089. Janet Poi, same. Offers community-outreach services to marginalized individuals and families through a support network platform for leaders and their leadership teams within the Christian community.

AMG Solutions Inc., 115 State St., #403, Springfield, MA 01103. Yariseliz Diaz, same. Management and business consulting services.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

DSG Enterprise Inc., 1321 Morgan Road, West Springfield, MA 01089. Daniel Giustina, same. General construction services.

WILBRAHAM

M Jude Stirlacci Inc., 8 Meadow View Road, Wilbraham, MA 01095. Michael Stirlacci, same. Carpet-cleaning services.

 

DBA Certificates

Doing Business as Certificates

By

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the months of April and May 2023.

AMHERST

Alkemedia
150 Fearing St., Units 101-104
Sara Russell

Cheeky Moon Design
677 Station Road
Merlina Wehman-Brown

Epic Remodel & Repair
52 Chapel Road
Julian Albo

Massage Therapy by Angela Morsbach LMT
441 West St.
Angela Morsbach

Powell Family Home Improvement
149 Pomeroy Lane
Michael Powell

Shine Acupuncture
19 Research Dr., Suite 5
Jack Mattrey, Stephanie Mattrey

EASTHAMPTON

A.C.K. Therapy
123 Union St., Suite 300
Alison Kinsey

Amy Thompson Avishai Photography
116 Pleasant St., Suite 032
Amy Thompson

Chris Korczak, Bookseller
1 Cottage St., #307
Chris Korczak

Mitra: Healing Centered Yoga
2A Pine St.
Angelica Lopez

OM Valley Farm Inc.
128 Northampton St.
Falguni Patil

Paws to Smell the Roses
10 Clinton St.
Lauren Adams

Precision Painting by Papy LLC
68 Pleasant St., Apt. 1L
Guy Mbangu

RKR Design
10 Chapman Ave.
Rachel Keenan Roberts

EAST LONGMEADOW

D&B Mechanical Inc.
631 North Main St.
Daniel Murray

Dutko Electric LLC
50 Heatherstone Dr.
Andrew Dutko

East Village Taver
n
53-55 North Main St.
Joseph Sullivan

Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation
220 North Main St.
Frank Forastiere

Kieu Nail Artist
30-34 Shaker Road
Kieu Nguyen

Marvelous Me Aesthetics LLC
280 North Main St.
Hannah Hubacz

Meadows Motor Cars
179 North Main St.
Meadows Motor Cars

Pediatric Dental Associates
52 North Main St.
Vincent Trimboli

Richard A. Calvanese CPA
200 North Main St., #201
Richard Calvanese

Silverson Machines Inc.
355 Chestnut St.
Stacey Nuzzolilli

Site Welding Services
475 Somers Road
Justin Howell

GRANBY

American Specialty Designs
77 West State St.
Emelie Lyszchyn, Paul Lyszchyn

Deere Creek Farm
193 Amherst St.
Jonathan Szymonik, Naomi Szymonik

Jaime’s Cat Sitting Service
97 New Ludlow Road
Jaimelee LeBreton

Lazer Automotive
114 School St.
Charles Lofland

Prospective Energy Solutions Inc.
14 Pinebrook Circle
Rachel Hall

Reeds Coffee
141 Taylor St.
Bandhana Sinha

GREAT BARRINGTON

Berkshire Compost
307 North Plain Road
Melissa Beeson

MGH Management Co.
205 Blue Hill Road
Marion Gilliam

Stonybrook Farm Garden Design
206 Blue Hill Road
Marion Gilliam

HADLEY

AMETG
200 Venture Way
Diagnostic Equipment Service Corp.

Buck Brothers Enterprises
340 River Dr.
Leonard Buck

Courtyard by Marriott
423 Russell St.
Russell Hospitality LLC

Jefferies Wealth Planning
4 Bay Road, Suite 100
Kevin Jefferies

Next Barn Over
17 Lawrence Plain Road
Next Barn Over LLC

Niedbala Farms
136 East St.
Niedbala Farms LLC

Rodrigues Towing
10 Mill Valley Road
Adylson Rodrigues

Whole Foods Market
327 Russell St.
Whole Foods Inc.

HOLYOKE

Divine Restoration Behavioral Health
98 Lower Westfield Road, Suite 101
Amdonne Mbouadeu

Ergonomic Collaboration Group
337 High St.
Martin Rodgers, John Maslar

Frank Storage
19 St. James Ave.
Francisco Marrero

Holyoke Tax Service
295 High St.
David Yos

Jan Transport
36 Hampden St.
Juan Morales

Lane Bryant
50 Holyoke St.
Lane Bryant Brands OPCO LLC

Mo’s the Clean Freak Services
31 Beacon Ave.
Monica Goucher

Paper City Car Wash
990 Main St.
Michael Marcotte, Michael Filomeno

Premium Brands
50 Holyoke St.
Premium Brands Services

Rejuven8 Painting and Powerwash
116 Waldo St.
Anel Serrano

Route 22 Liquors
518 Westfield St.
Vimal Patel, Shivani Patel

Stacy Wright, Therapist
164 Rock Valley Road
Stacy Wright

Unity Financial & Insurance
330 Whitney Ave., Suite 300
Robert Houle

Western Mass Appliances LLC
2291 Northampton St.
Jason Brazee, Donald Dumais

PITTSFIELD

ABC Trucking
17 Holmes Road
David Pill

Andy’s Carpentry Group
82 Wendell Ave.
Andy’s Carpentry Inc.

Babe Botanics
5 Daytona Ave.
Brooke Moore

Berkshire Foundations
996 Pecks Road
Berkshire Pools & Patio Co. Inc.

C&M Carpentry and Contracting
55 Oxford St.
Carl Morrison

CMD Lawn Maintenance
90 McIntosh Dr.
Christopher Dadak

Cozy Amenities LLC
82 Wendell Ave.
Christopher Fowler

The Elevate Group
82 Wendell Ave.
Think Strategy LLC

Harvest Handarts
177 King St.
Things That Work

Jem Cleaners and Property Management
100 Thomas Island Road
Joseph Merriam

JZC’s Graphic T-Shirts and E-Scooter Rentals
76 Hollister St.
James Sevigny

Lure Looks by Jessy
1450 East St.
Jessica Perrault

Masora
76 Foote Ave.
Piyachat Ardia, Matthew Ardia

Olivia by Paradox
82 Wendell Ave.
Paradox Inc.

Pro Finish Auto Body
1589 East St.
6 Giovina Dr.

Qualprint
3 Federico Dr.
Brilliant Graphics Group

Room at 267
267 Holmes Dr.
Nate Buller

TC Group Inc.
82 Wendell Ave.
Yifan Jiang

Walden Village Club
20 Alcott Lane
Walden Village Club Inc.

SOUTH HADLEY

Delaney’s Market
459 Granby Road
Delaney’s Market

Doneright Cleaning
15 Pershing Ave.
Doneright Cleaning

Forbes & Son Painting & Staining
63 Laurie Ave.
Brad Forbes

STOCKBRIDGE

Berkshire Muse
53 Interlaken Road
Lauren Fritscher

Ride-N-Shine Mobile Detailing
3 West Stockbridge Road
Andrea Bailly

WARE

A&J Motorsports LLC
51 Monson Turnpike Road, Lot 1019
Adam Holbrook

DragonWolf U.S.A.
98 Greenwich Road
Debra Monday

Fontaine Consulting Solutions
47 Babcock Tavern Road
Jennylyn Fontaine

Swistak Stump Grinding
131 Church St.
John Swistak

Woodsmiths
5 Anna St.
Mark Smith

WESTFIELD

Buildx
504 Holyoke Road
Anthony Deven

Cybernesticks
34 Tekoa Trail
Lawrence Foard

Hannoush Home Designs LLC
99 Springfield Road, Suite 1
Tiffany Hannoush

Healthy Flavors LLC
217 Root Road
Health Flavors LLC

Jack Pots Hotdogs
16 Fowler St.
John Symmons

Potholes Magazine
66 Ridgeway St.
Jacob Fleron

Silverfox Creations
23 Sherwood Ave.
Wendy McCann

TJ Networks
7 Nancy Circle
Thomas Jarry

Ur Prfct Bowl
45 Meadow St.
Roselyn Cedeno

WILBRAHAM

Audiology Services Co. USA LLC
95 Post Office Park
Lisa Mulligan

LML Enterprises LLC
17 Cooley Dr.
Maissoun Jackson

Nouveau Aesthetics LLC
40 Dumaine St.
Jean Brodwski

Pink Door Interior Design
913 Stony Hill Road
Michelle Patrick

Verdon’s Restoration
65 Main St.
Real Verdon

Bankruptcies

Bankruptcies

By

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

Arnould, Meghan M.
90 Lovefield St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/26/2023

Beauregard, Jeffrey B.
16 Maple Crest Circle, Apt. H
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/26/2023

Bellucci, Robert Alan
Bellucci, Dorka
a/k/a Domador, Dorka
329 North Main St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/24/2023

Beltran Suren, Felix
1342 Bay St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/26/2023

Caulton, JaJuan Robert
24 Lorimer St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/19/2023

Cembura, Joseph J.
959 Westhampton Road
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/20/2023

Dimartini, Katherine
178 Glendale Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/17/2023

Gauthier, Roxanne
1794 White Pond Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/19/2023

Malafronte, Michelle L.
a/k/a Larkins, Michelle L.
2 Pidgeon Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/26/2023

Meyers, Todd C.
Meyers, Christina M.
a/k/a Bailey, Christina M.
48 New Broadway
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/19/2023

Montalvo, Melquisedec
Burgos, Melquisedec
24 Knollwood St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/17/2023

Proulx, Jeremy J.
1 Belden Court, Unit E3
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/17/2023

Rex, Daniel B.
Rex, Doreen M.
6 Cleveland Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/20/2023

Richards, Janet
116 Fieldston St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/25/2023

Tollis, Alexander
Dagostino-Tollis, Annalisa
15 Deerfoot Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/26/2023

Wisniak, Mark John
221 North Orange Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/18/2023

Building Permits

Real Estate Transactions

By

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

ASHFIELD

190 Briar Hill Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Jennifer Hart
Seller: Briar Hill Road 190 RT
Date: 04/26/23

912 Creamery Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $151,000
Buyer: Troy Santerre
Seller: Marley Engvall
Date: 04/25/23

1029 Spruce Corner Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Jon T. Romer
Seller: Nicole Romer
Date: 04/28/23

CHARLEMONT

Avery Brook Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Jonathan Mirin
Seller: Jacob W. Rheinheimer
Date: 04/21/23

3 High St.
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Troy A. Fortin
Seller: Vaughn Tower
Date: 04/28/23

11 High St.
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Troy A. Fortin
Seller: Vaughn Tower
Date: 04/28/23

CONWAY

244 Pine Hill Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $925,000
Buyer: George W. Siguler
Seller: William C. Blumer
Date: 04/26/23

DEERFIELD

300 Conway Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Adam Czachorowski
Seller: Amy B. Royal
Date: 04/27/23

20 Elm Circle
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Eric Baldwin
Seller: Joan C. Baldwin
Date: 04/19/23

ERVING

16 Flagg Hill
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $338,250
Buyer: Diane Steingart
Seller: Jacob M. Earl
Date: 04/24/23

93 Mountain Road
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Andres A. Ortega
Seller: Arthur D. Johnson
Date: 04/28/23

GILL

Mountain Road
Gill, MA 01376
Amount: $153,000
Buyer: Catherine Woolner
Seller: Alyce A. Sokolosky IRT
Date: 04/27/23

GREENFIELD

144 Elm St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $254,000
Buyer: Savannah Donahue
Seller: 452 RT
Date: 04/24/23

63 Fort Square
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Theodore J. Burrell
Seller: Michael J. Egan
Date: 04/28/23

67 Fort Square
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Theodore J. Burrell
Seller: Michael J. Egan
Date: 04/28/23

52 French King Hwy.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: John B. Dunphy
Seller: MLE Real Estate Enterprises LLC
Date: 04/27/23

54 Glenbrook Dr.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Jacob S. Rhodes
Seller: Joanne Zywna
Date: 04/24/23

368 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $236,000
Buyer: Town Fair Tire Centers Of Mass.
Seller: 368 High Street LLC
Date: 04/18/23

6 Locust St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Lawrence R. Loranger
Seller: Luther A. Massey
Date: 04/21/23

16 Michelman Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Michelina R. Armenti
Seller: Robert J. Escott
Date: 04/26/23

434 Mohawk Trail
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: John M. Gates
Seller: Gates, Donald James, (Estate)
Date: 04/18/23

20 Plum Tree Lane
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $262,000
Buyer: Frances D. Hadsel
Seller: Margaret Martin
Date: 04/28/23

10 Silver St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $708,000
Buyer: Town Fair Tire Centers Of Mass.
Seller: 10 Silver Street LLC
Date: 04/18/23

MONTAGUE

6 Bulkley St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Peter J. Klepadlo
Seller: Murphy, Joanne, (Estate)
Date: 04/27/23

188 Millers Falls Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Richard Palmisano
Seller: Ewell, Dale E., (Estate)
Date: 04/25/23

2 New St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $339,000
Buyer: A&A New Street LLC
Seller: Edmond C. Tolzdorf
Date: 04/27/23

NEW SALEM

59 Cooleyville Road
New Salem, MA 01355
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Douglas R. Ruopp
Seller: Kyung M. Kang
Date: 04/26/23

NORTHFIELD

271 West Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $442,000
Buyer: Micheal Neeley
Seller: David W. Leduc
Date: 04/28/23

ORANGE

24 Johnson Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Andrew S. Chandler
Seller: John D. Carey
Date: 04/21/23

84 Mattawa Circle
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Maxine A. Gerhard
Seller: John A. Emery
Date: 04/20/23

33 Packard Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Courteney White
Seller: Mary Paluk
Date: 04/21/23

66 Packard Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Mark J. Hettinger
Seller: Eliot E. Nottleson
Date: 04/28/23

177 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Neil Ketola
Seller: Mark S. Greco
Date: 04/28/23

114 Warwick Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Jennifer N. Stone
Seller: Amln RET RT
Date: 04/28/23

SHUTESBURY

105 Sand Hill Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Trisha Davis-Gray
Seller: Great Bally Inc.
Date: 04/20/23

SUNDERLAND

406 Russell St.
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: JJK Investments LLC
Seller: Maiewski Jr., Joseph B., (Estate)
Date: 04/26/23

 

 

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

33 Cleveland St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Van P. Nguyen
Seller: Coleen E. Gruska
Date: 04/27/23

19 Damato Way
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Mahmood Ahmed
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 04/21/23

157 Elmar Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Victoria L. Walker
Seller: Cheryl L. Walker
Date: 04/24/23

30 Federal St., Ext.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Diana Horning
Seller: Timothy W. Reimers
Date: 04/19/23

46 Independence Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Matthew B. Coppellotti
Seller: Michael P. Viara
Date: 04/28/23

39 Losito Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Louis E. Conte
Seller: Kevin Wright
Date: 04/25/23

586 Mill St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: Rosewood Way Townhomes LP
Seller: Chicopee Kendall LLC
Date: 04/28/23

288 North St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Shawn T. Battles
Seller: Ronald G
Date: 04/28/23

74 Pleasant Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $226,100
Buyer: Stuart W. Stork
Seller: Gloria P. Stowe
Date: 04/24/23

44 Russo Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Aga Brothers LLC
Seller: V. & K. Realty LLC
Date: 04/27/23

109-111 Sheri Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Muhammad Razzaq
Seller: Daniel F. Melbourne
Date: 04/21/23

61 Villa Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $449,900
Buyer: Steven Tencati
Seller: Pine Crossing Construction Inc.
Date: 04/20/23

31 Wilbert Ter.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $344,100
Buyer: Ben J. Masse
Seller: Mark E. Slinsky
Date: 04/28/23

BRIMFIELD

99 Brookfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $354,900
Buyer: Nathaniel Oswald
Seller: Herbert F. Seymour
Date: 04/20/23

10 Governor Fairbanks Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Bruce Walker
Seller: Brian G. Thompson
Date: 04/21/23

55 Haynes Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Richard A. Buck
Seller: Jewel Real Estate Inc.
Date: 04/28/23

39 Knollwood Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $327,000
Buyer: Daniel Dougan
Seller: Dmitriy Lissitsine
Date: 04/28/23

68 Saint Clair Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Tyler J. Bigda
Seller: Kirsten M. Desjardins
Date: 04/24/23

CHICOPEE

191 Arcade St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Samual Laurin
Seller: Gregory S. Assarian
Date: 04/28/23

32 Boutin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $283,000
Buyer: Caroline Cyr
Seller: Michael P. Michon
Date: 04/25/23

39 Broad St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Richard M. Ramos
Seller: Mark Goebel
Date: 04/27/23

328 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Patricia Marrow
Seller: Peter A. Bilodeau
Date: 04/28/23

590 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Ivan Carrasquillo
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 04/28/23

30 Canal St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $708,150
Buyer: Thinktree Realty LLC
Seller: KV Properties LLC
Date: 04/28/23

129 Catherine St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Sareen Properties LLC
Seller: Ace Securities Corp.
Date: 04/24/23

37 Coolidge Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $266,900
Buyer: Jennifer Weisgerber
Seller: Laura Scibelli
Date: 04/24/23

58 Edbert St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $349,999
Buyer: Katarzyna Letowska
Seller: Sonia I. Soto
Date: 04/28/23

325 Front St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $708,150
Buyer: Thinktree Realty LLC
Seller: KV Properties LLC
Date: 04/28/23

76 Garland St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $273,000
Buyer: Cheryl Moore-Sevelo
Seller: Cournoyer, Robert A., (Estate)
Date: 04/26/23

22 Harrington Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $289,900
Buyer: Irene Kepler
Seller: Alexandre C. Holan
Date: 04/21/23

96 Hilton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Griselle F. Carrion
Seller: Mark Hebert
Date: 04/26/23

39 Jennings St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Sergey Privedenyuk
Seller: John E. Rhodes
Date: 04/21/23

25 Keddy Blvd.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Kaycee Pereira
Seller: Lillian M. Mika
Date: 04/19/23

35 Langevin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Dustin A. Blair
Seller: Norman Grandbois
Date: 04/24/23

137 Lawrence Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $270,100
Buyer: Michael Disley
Seller: Paulette Neubauer
Date: 04/26/23

137 Manning St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Christa Giannini
Seller: Mildred E. Tracy
Date: 04/28/23

924 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $269,900
Buyer: Natalie Sacdal
Seller: Susan A. Lazier
Date: 04/19/23

104 Mount Vernon Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Ronald F. Hartling
Seller: Raymond N. Laroche
Date: 04/24/23

20 Murphy Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $341,100
Buyer: Alan C. Edwards
Seller: David A. Wolowicz
Date: 04/21/23

130 Murphy Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Steven D. Carrington
Seller: Joseph R. Caproni
Date: 04/18/23

123 Newbury St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $263,000
Buyer: Travis J. Haley
Seller: Jennifer L. Weisgerber
Date: 04/24/23

11 Pearl St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Weary Travelers LLC
Seller: Jane C. Labak
Date: 04/25/23

14 Royalton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Govindbhai P. Patel
Seller: Lawrence P. Rodrigues
Date: 04/19/23

62 Sandtrap Way
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Brian P. Loud
Seller: Debbie Burkott
Date: 04/28/23

49 Stedman St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Audriana L. Vargas
Seller: Michael A. Kroell
Date: 04/28/23

72 Sunnymeade Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: John C. Wolanski
Seller: Christa Giannini
Date: 04/28/23

33 William St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $232,900
Buyer: Susanna M. Butler
Seller: Travis J. Haley
Date: 04/24/23

EAST LONGMEADOW

10 Lester St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Ryan F. Wheeler
Seller: Steven H. Clark
Date: 04/26/23

160 Millbrook Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $645,000
Buyer: Keri Deming
Seller: Jennifer White
Date: 04/21/23

3 Peachtree Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $536,500
Buyer: Jacob Garcia
Seller: Dallae Kang
Date: 04/20/23

461 Prospect St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $372,000
Buyer: Nancy Weithofer
Seller: 461 Prospect Street RT
Date: 04/19/23

73 Redin Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Robert J. Racicot
Seller: Gregory A. Riberdy
Date: 04/19/23

6 Townview Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $472,000
Buyer: Mary A. MacDonnell
Seller: Shao Q. Ma
Date: 04/28/23

65 Westernview Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $387,000
Buyer: Rebecca O. Lewis
Seller: William Raleigh
Date: 04/28/23

180 Westwood Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $505,000
Buyer: Johnna S. Healey
Seller: Custom Home Development Group LLC
Date: 04/20/23

GRANVILLE

199 Barnard Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jacob S. Schultz
Seller: Douglas Max
Date: 04/28/23

279 North Lane
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Shawn A. Lindsay
Seller: Miller, Stephen T., (Estate)
Date: 04/28/23

HAMPDEN

61 Bennett Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $259,000
Buyer: Kimberly Darney
Seller: Christina Mateer
Date: 04/28/23

HOLLAND

11 Fenton St.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Jennifer Bellino
Seller: Michael G. Peltier
Date: 04/28/23

34 Leno Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $315,102
Buyer: Eric R. Lefebvre
Seller: Nicholas C. Ellsworth
Date: 04/28/23

82 Stafford Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Juanita Mandanna
Seller: Meegan L. Bullock
Date: 04/20/23

HOLYOKE

25-27 Claremont Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Mark P. Vaclavicek
Seller: George Yeramian
Date: 04/28/23

5 Essex St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Appleton Redevelopment LP
Seller: Mailhott LLC
Date: 04/19/23

645-647 Hampden St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Felix R. Soto
Seller: Scott Family Properties LLC
Date: 04/25/23

26 Lower Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Arthur D. Johnson
Seller: NJRE Property Group LLC
Date: 04/28/23

13-15 Meadow St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Elissette M. Marquez
Seller: Shirley Donkor
Date: 04/24/23

87-89 Pearl St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $277,500
Buyer: Katherine Hopkinson
Seller: Maryjane R. Mejias
Date: 04/24/23

175 Pearl St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Zailly Martinez
Seller: Four Harps LLC
Date: 04/19/23

42 Richard Eger Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $326,000
Buyer: Elizabeth L. Atkins
Seller: Michelle B. Lonergan
Date: 04/27/23

185 Sargeant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Stephanie Sawyer
Seller: Suzanne Rataj
Date: 04/27/23

LONGMEADOW

88 Berwick Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Kevin J. Czaplicki
Seller: Joseph C. Suse
Date: 04/27/23

144 Brookwood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Song J. No
Seller: Lindsey Jones
Date: 04/20/23

168 Concord Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $561,500
Buyer: David Thor
Seller: Killeen, Judith B., (Estate)
Date: 04/21/23

90 Ellington St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $572,000
Buyer: Gregory Morrison
Seller: Emilio Melchionna
Date: 04/21/23

7 Farmington Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Jamie B. Miller
Seller: Lindsay Maloni-Kuntz
Date: 04/28/23

684 Maple Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: George Romeo
Seller: Mark A. Hirschkorn
Date: 04/28/23

86 Pleasantview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $459,000
Buyer: Lindsay Maloni-Kuntz
Seller: John W. Miller
Date: 04/28/23

904 Shaker Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Quercus Properties LLC
Seller: Summa Ventures RT
Date: 04/25/23

300 Tanglewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $590,000
Buyer: Ashley Thielen
Seller: Jessica L. Mack
Date: 04/20/23

79 Wildwood Glen
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $486,750
Buyer: Emma Szalay
Seller: Silvio Baruzzi
Date: 04/28/23

LUDLOW

40 Arch St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Sean M. Niles-Demarco
Seller: Jeffrey C. Dias
Date: 04/24/23

29 Baker St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $312,500
Buyer: Jorge Vieira
Seller: JT Realty Associates Inc.
Date: 04/18/23

24 Helena St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $321,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Sternowski
Seller: Jennifer Hansen
Date: 04/21/23

56 Hillcrest Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Tiffany Y. Hernandez
Seller: Liam Powers
Date: 04/28/23

258 Howard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $278,900
Buyer: Jonathan M. Belanger
Seller: Casey L. Mendrala
Date: 04/28/23

369 Lyon St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Kathleen M. Morgan
Seller: Deborah L. Costa
Date: 04/25/23

Riverside Dr., Lot B1
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: A. Crane Properties LLC
Seller: Westmass Area Development Corp.
Date: 04/19/23

Riverside Dr., Lot B2
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: A. Crane Properties LLC
Seller: Westmass Area Development Corp.
Date: 04/19/23

160 Wedgewood Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Ross J. Bennett-Bonn
Seller: David W. Puzzo
Date: 04/27/23

MONSON

214 Cedar Swamp Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Meghan Alves
Seller: Dimitri Krutov
Date: 04/28/23

246 Stafford Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Frank Hull
Seller: James E. Meurisse
Date: 04/18/23

135 Upper Palmer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Domingo Tavarez
Seller: Gouger, Shawn A., (Estate)
Date: 04/19/23

31 Woodhill Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $526,000
Buyer: Jennifer Wolowicz
Seller: Glen R. Peck
Date: 04/24/23

MONTGOMERY

Thomas Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Thomas Road Land Trust
Seller: Gaylon R. Donovan
Date: 04/26/23

Thomas Road (off)
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Thomas Road Land Trust
Seller: Gaylon R. Donovan
Date: 04/26/23

PALMER

60 Beech St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $351,000
Buyer: William Peckham
Seller: Raymond Dranka
Date: 04/28/23

57 Mount Dumplin Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $279,900
Buyer: Andriana Macri
Seller: Plata O. Plomo Inc.
Date: 04/27/23

1461 North Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Dore Real Estate Co. LLC
Seller: Jean C. Ciukaj
Date: 04/28/23

381 Rondeau St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: William Smith
Seller: Beverly A. Dudek
Date: 04/26/23

1152 South Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Jeremy Greene
Seller: Oleg Loginov
Date: 04/28/23

17 Temple St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Thomas H. Duncan-Emmons
Seller: Rhiron Realty LLC
Date: 04/20/23

RUSSELL

1441 Blandford Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Gregory A. Roach
Seller: Lakeview Loan Servicing
Date: 04/18/23

SOUTHWICK

1 Iroquois Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Alyssa Chambers
Seller: George A. Romeo
Date: 04/28/23

6 Silvergrass Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $585,000
Buyer: Mark S. Karangekis
Seller: Hamelin Framing Inc.
Date: 04/18/23

12 Veteran St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $314,900
Buyer: Francis E. Perusse
Seller: Marjorie C. Currie
Date: 04/25/23

SPRINGFIELD

89 Agnes St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Matthew Nichols
Seller: Patricia G. Marrow
Date: 04/28/23

81 Anniversary St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $244,000
Buyer: Delissa Kraus
Seller: Billy Molina
Date: 04/20/23

115 Berkshire St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Kim H. Tran
Seller: Arminda Esteves
Date: 04/28/23

1655 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $4,500,000
Buyer: Onyx Springfield Counseling LLC
Seller: 1685 Boston Road LLC
Date: 04/19/23

1719 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $4,500,000
Buyer: Onyx Springfield Counseling LLC
Seller: 1685 Boston Road LLC
Date: 04/19/23

144 Bristol St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Anthony R. Mazza
Seller: John N. Mbugua
Date: 04/26/23

29 Bruce St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Steven Dunn
Seller: Andrew M. Murrell
Date: 04/27/23

22 Bruce Landon Way
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Mass. Convention Center Authority
Seller: Springfield Redevelopment Authority
Date: 04/18/23

35 Cedar St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Prestigious One LLC
Seller: Plata O. Plomo Inc.
Date: 04/21/23

44 Cheyenne Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Jose Lopez
Seller: Evergrain Orchard LLC
Date: 04/26/23

142 Cloran St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Skyspec LLC
Seller: Fallah Razzak
Date: 04/28/23

75 Clydesdale Lane
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $236,000
Buyer: Roberto Lugo
Seller: Hogan, Kevin P., (Estate)
Date: 04/21/23

19 Colonial Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Janeiah Fickling
Seller: Gabriel Martinez
Date: 04/28/23

7-9 Cornell St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Edgar F. Criollo
Seller: Jacqueline A. Holden
Date: 04/27/23

15 County St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Daisy Rivera
Seller: Kenny J. Soto
Date: 04/25/23

85 Covington St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: Jose A. Vazquez
Seller: Secretary Of Veterans Affairs
Date: 04/18/23

86 Cuff Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Maria Gonzalez
Seller: Jeannette M. Ramos
Date: 04/25/23

62-64 Davenport St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $293,000
Buyer: Priscilla Nkwantabisa
Seller: Winners O. LLC
Date: 04/28/23

346 Dickinson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Son Vo
Seller: STV Realty LLC
Date: 04/18/23

346 Dickinson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Minh T. Chau
Seller: Son Vo
Date: 04/19/23

360 Eastern Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $259,900
Buyer: Tracy Dotterrer
Seller: Sanjeev K. Bhatia
Date: 04/27/23

99 Edendale St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Kepler Senecharles
Seller: Carlos M. Hernandez
Date: 04/25/23

114 Ellsworth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Angel Mendez
Seller: Timothy Perkins
Date: 04/26/23

172 Garvey Dr.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Anthony Santaniello
Seller: Aames Mortgage Investment Trust
Date: 04/27/23

74 Gilman St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Casey Mendrala
Seller: Joana P. Palero
Date: 04/28/23

67 Glenham St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Derrick T. Whitley
Seller: Mass Investors LLC
Date: 04/19/23

75 Glenmore St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Matthew Begley
Seller: Amber L. Dyke
Date: 04/26/23

58 Governor St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $153,000
Buyer: Jjj17 LLC
Seller: Betsy A. Cavanaugh
Date: 04/18/23

119 Greene St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Shreyas Ovalekar
Seller: Anthony Brice
Date: 04/19/23

85 Hampshire St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Justin Vasquez
Seller: Luz A. Herrera
Date: 04/28/23

41 Hardy St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Dayanara Caban
Seller: Antonio V. Lopriore
Date: 04/21/23

338 Hermitage Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $239,000
Buyer: Merlyn M. Martinez
Seller: Van Orman Ft
Date: 04/28/23

72-74 Kenyon St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $262,500
Buyer: Erika M. Alvarado
Seller: Samantha M. Anderson
Date: 04/20/23

264-266 King St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Carlton Minott
Seller: Cynthia J. Lajzer
Date: 04/21/23

15 Leete St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Rejuvenate Real Estate LLC
Seller: Birch Properties LLC
Date: 04/21/23

315 Lexington St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Candido I. Del Moral
Seller: Briarwood NT
Date: 04/18/23

83-97 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Mirzai 87 LLC
Seller: Saremi LLP
Date: 04/20/23

84 Mayfair Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Farah Pimentel
Seller: Mayra Uceta
Date: 04/20/23

27 McBride St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Jesus A. Burgos
Seller: Nehal Parekh
Date: 04/20/23

114 Melville St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Frances Yates
Seller: Brickhouse Homes LLC
Date: 04/27/23

57 Merwin St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $266,000
Buyer: Devin Thomas
Seller: Herman Cohee
Date: 04/28/23

11 Metzger Place
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $262,000
Buyer: Nadiyah A. King
Seller: Alexsis K. Alvarez
Date: 04/28/23

28 Nathaniel St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $185,525
Buyer: Damian Carrizo
Seller: Jesenia Santiago
Date: 04/20/23

785 Page Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Penelope LLC
Seller: DDM Page LLC
Date: 04/21/23

38-40 Pasadena St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $416,000
Buyer: Margarita Garcia
Seller: Aguasvivas Realty LLC
Date: 04/28/23

170 Pendleton Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $244,000
Buyer: Juan L. Rodriguez
Seller: Evelyn Fernandez
Date: 04/21/23

83 Pennsylvania Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $304,900
Buyer: Patrick K. Treffon
Seller: Beth A. Nolan
Date: 04/27/23

73 Randolph St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $379,900
Buyer: Rosa Espejo
Seller: Aguasvivas Realty LLC
Date: 04/28/23

131 Ranney St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Emmanuel Pinywah
Seller: Jose A. Cuevas
Date: 04/19/23

55 Redlands St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Carola M. Espada-Sanchez
Seller: Inas S. Alitbi
Date: 04/24/23

115 Roosevelt Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Roderique P. Heartley
Seller: Craig M. Cox
Date: 04/26/23

185 Senator St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Alyssa Koske
Seller: Wendy K. Newton
Date: 04/28/23

69 Silas St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Shayne A. Spencer
Seller: Jose A. Lopez
Date: 04/26/23

9 Stockbridge St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Springfield Preservation Trust Inc.
Seller: Community Loan Servicing LLC
Date: 04/28/23

35 Stuart St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Stephanie Martinez
Seller: Lachenauer LLC
Date: 04/25/23

15 Sue St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Denise Caraballo
Seller: Peter S. King
Date: 04/20/23

61 Suzanne St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $264,000
Buyer: Kashelle M. Feliciano
Seller: Sareen Properties LLC
Date: 04/28/23

67 Thompson St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Adilenia Ramos
Seller: Jennifer L. Hogan
Date: 04/27/23

300 Tremont St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $267,500
Buyer: Kayla Schlenz
Seller: Maureen M. Pilon
Date: 04/28/23

15 Wellington St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Cwabs Inc.
Seller: Ivin Rennix
Date: 04/28/23

43 Wellington St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jose Rivera
Seller: Cynthia L. Jones
Date: 04/24/23

75 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $219,000
Buyer: Omeiry Cruz
Seller: John M. Turner
Date: 04/26/23

383 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Danielle E. Johnson
Seller: Panther Development LLC
Date: 04/21/23

2020 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Wieslaw Kanar
Seller: Olga Campbell
Date: 04/28/23

60-62 Windemere St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Jose L. Ortiz
Date: 04/28/23

138 Wollaston St.
Springfield, MA 01199
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Patrick Tacho
Seller: Clevan Cooper
Date: 04/28/23

WALES

50 Monson Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Tina M. Ehrstein
Seller: Cioccolate RT
Date: 04/18/23

WESTFIELD

38 Castle Hill Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Matthew S. Gray
Seller: Robert A. Stoops
Date: 04/28/23

186 City View Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Mark Lavoie
Seller: Alfred J. Albano
Date: 04/27/23

310 East Main St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Metrolube Realty LLC
Seller: Speedway LLC
Date: 04/20/23

11 Howard St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $162,750
Buyer: Salim Abdoo
Seller: City Of Westfield
Date: 04/28/23

49 Ingersoll Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $422,550
Buyer: Daniel W. Stephenson
Seller: Michael B. Wilson
Date: 04/28/23

13 Leonard Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Patrick T. McMahon
Seller: Francis T. Edwards
Date: 04/28/23

5-7 Morris Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Oscar N. Naranjo
Seller: Madeleine E. Smith
Date: 04/21/23

177 Munger Hill Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $729,900
Buyer: Rupinder K. Multani
Seller: Ali R. Salehi
Date: 04/21/23

113 New Broadway
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Megliola Realty LLC
Seller: Thomas Hopper
Date: 04/20/23

Old Long Pond Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Monica Bermejo
Seller: R&L Golden Acres RT
Date: 04/20/23

105 Park River Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $311,500
Buyer: William J. Conklin
Seller: Callahan, Robert C., (Estate)
Date: 04/20/23

120 Roosevelt Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Muenzen
Seller: Gabriella C. Hernandez
Date: 04/21/23

46 Saint James Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Preston G. Webb
Seller: Lisa Bricault
Date: 04/28/23

38 Salvator Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $605,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Tobias
Seller: Jose J. Bermejo
Date: 04/25/23

59 Scenic Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Keith E. Tremblay
Seller: Robin A. Watras
Date: 04/28/23

475 Southampton Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $1,300,000
Buyer: Pioneer Vly Trading Co. LL
Seller: Sao Joao Realty LLC
Date: 04/21/23

285 Valley View Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Timothy Basak
Seller: Michael Werman
Date: 04/18/23

56 Western Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $361,000
Buyer: Conor Dalton
Seller: Donna F. Dubour
Date: 04/28/23

WILBRAHAM

19 3 Rivers Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: Jonathan Eliza
Seller: Richard A. Jodoin
Date: 04/20/23

9 Bittersweet Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Lisa A. Hutchison
Seller: Maryann Nunez
Date: 04/20/23

11 Circle Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Johnson
Seller: Brian Nogueira
Date: 04/19/23

24 Dumaine St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: RS&D Ventures LLC
Seller: IJN Equities LLC
Date: 04/28/23

10 Echo Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Amanda T. Theocles
Seller: Judy L. Van Raalte
Date: 04/24/23

10 Kensington Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $730,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Falvey
Seller: Thomas C. Cebula
Date: 04/26/23

215 Maynard Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Jennifer L. Lopez
Seller: Daniel J. Falvey
Date: 04/26/23

939 Monson Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: BP LLC
Seller: Bridget W. Wallace
Date: 04/19/23

1 Squire Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $755,000
Buyer: Eva Rodriguez
Seller: Grahams Construction Inc.
Date: 04/28/23

7 Victoria Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $655,000
Buyer: Roland Nkwanyuo
Seller: Kelly Nygren
Date: 04/26/23

WEST SPRINGFIELD

182 Ely Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Desiree Law
Seller: Deborah A. O’Neil
Date: 04/27/23

337 Gooseberry Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Christopher Fall
Seller: Angel Otero
Date: 04/21/23

42 Janet St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: HVC LLC
Seller: Begley, Joanne E., (Estate)
Date: 04/19/23

42 Janet St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Darrin J. Begley
Seller: HVC LLC
Date: 04/20/23

Morgan Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Town Of West Springfield
Seller: Paul J. Sears
Date: 04/21/23

37 Nelson St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $263,000
Buyer: Melissa J. Small
Seller: Pendleton, Katherine P., (Estate)
Date: 04/28/23

21 Russell St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Aga Brothers LLC
Seller: Bacile, Joseph, (Estate)
Date: 04/27/23

163 Woodmont St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $343,900
Buyer: Dvon Cordero
Seller: Lothlorien TR
Date: 04/18/23

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

850 Belchertown Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $562,000
Buyer: 80 Acres
Seller: Steve A. Ozcelik
Date: 04/20/23

40 Berkshire Ter.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Sean D. Lopez
Seller: Emily T. Hamilton
Date: 04/21/23

150 College St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $1,300,000
Buyer: Hamshaw Amherst LLC
Seller: Filion Leasing Inc.
Date: 04/24/23

130 Leverett Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Christopher Kueffner
Seller: Huong C. Chow
Date: 04/19/23

105 Pondview Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Robert Gustafson
Seller: Ronald M. Loescher
Date: 04/28/23

17 Shumway St.
Amherst, MA 01004
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Mei Jiang
Seller: Sarah E. Thomson
Date: 04/28/23

16 Summerfield Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $730,000
Buyer: Nan Wang
Seller: Ming Yan
Date: 04/26/23

311 West St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Gorge Road LLC
Seller: Samuel G. Moody
Date: 04/28/23

BELCHERTOWN

24 Autumn Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Sean Ruell
Seller: Laurence L. Ruell
Date: 04/28/23

458 Bardwell St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Adam D. Chapin
Seller: Shufang Chen
Date: 04/28/23

399 Michael Sears Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Myckey J. McNutt
Seller: Michael Benoit
Date: 04/28/23

108 North Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Miguelina A. Hernandez
Seller: Richard I. Cole
Date: 04/25/23

67 North Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $459,900
Buyer: Arlene Soleimani
Seller: Modern Homes LLC
Date: 04/28/23

118 Railroad St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Michael J. Ekmalian
Seller: Audra A. McLeish
Date: 04/24/23

397 Rockrimmon St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: Bryan St Cyr
Seller: Antonio Carvalho
Date: 04/26/23

EASTHAMPTON

195 East St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $361,000
Buyer: Laura E. Jefferson
Seller: Donald J. Tymkowiche
Date: 04/28/23

346 East St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: James Cherewatti
Seller: Katherine E. Buckley
Date: 04/19/23

8 Summer St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Trouble Factory LLC
Seller: Christopher E. Gobillot
Date: 04/18/23

GRANBY

64 Aldrich St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $531,000
Buyer: Andrea Beaupre
Seller: Great Bally Inc.
Date: 04/20/23

17 Lyn Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: Thi T. Nguyen
Seller: Ian A. Cooke
Date: 04/28/23

HADLEY

7 Arrowhead Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Leah Grace
Seller: Martha Watson-Lorentzen
Date: 04/26/23

21 Lawrence Plain Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Matthew Olszewski
Seller: Joseph S. Buckowski
Date: 04/19/23

1 Nikkis Way
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $765,000
Buyer: Hao Zhang
Seller: Stephen H. Belgrad
Date: 04/28/23

35 Spruce Hill Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: David Lippa
Seller: Hadley Rentals LLC
Date: 04/27/23

HATFIELD

52 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $425,500
Buyer: Lisa Farrick
Seller: 119 Real Estate LLC
Date: 04/26/23

124 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Andria L. Moglia
Seller: Ernest T. Booth TR
Date: 04/28/23

HUNTINGTON

Thomas Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Thomas Road Land TR
Seller: Gaylon R. Donovan
Date: 04/26/23

NORTHAMPTON

61 Austin Circle
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $289,999
Buyer: Jennifer A. Carbery
Seller: Benjamin C. Matthews
Date: 04/21/23

116 Moser St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $785,000
Buyer: David Lederer
Seller: John H. Selden
Date: 04/27/23

97 Mountain St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Bryna Cofrin-Shaw
Seller: Peter J. Bienkowski
Date: 04/26/23

65 Nonotuck St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Benjamin D. Premo
Seller: Harold A. Asher
Date: 04/28/23

205 Nonotuck St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Stephanie Levin
Seller: Zaka LLC
Date: 04/28/23

250 North Maple St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Coburn
Seller: Christine E. Young
Date: 04/21/23

12 Rick Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $477,500
Buyer: Jai M. Alterman
Seller: Thomas J. Wickles
Date: 04/20/23

35 Willow St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Ariel Guitron
Seller: Robert V. Redick
Date: 04/28/23

SOUTH HADLEY

464 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $562,500
Buyer: Neal D. O’Meara
Seller: Barbara J. Smith
Date: 04/21/23

192 Brainerd St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Jose L. Ortiz
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 04/28/23

415 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Marissa L. Bailly
Seller: Scott Family Properties LLC
Date: 04/21/23

333 North Main St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $333,000
Buyer: Jessica Ayala
Seller: Onstar Properties LLC
Date: 04/28/23

5 Pine St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Mary A. Callahan
Seller: Karl R. Wailgum RET
Date: 04/26/23

3 Sunrise Circle
South Hadley, MA 00107
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: Caitlyn Shabshelowitz
Seller: Harvey Ashman
Date: 04/27/23

13 The Knolls
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Mary Couture
Seller: E&G RT
Date: 04/24/23

12 West Parkview Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Michael Mcelhaney
Seller: Phillip A. Chesky
Date: 04/28/23

 

WARE

83 Coffey Hill Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Matthew Crowner
Seller: Ronald E. Ellithorpe
Date: 04/19/23

4 Eddy St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Mooch Properties LLC
Seller: David J. Mendelsohn
Date: 04/19/23

123 Main St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Ye & Zheng FT
Seller: Jasmina NT
Date: 04/18/23

5 Ross Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Connolly FT
Seller: MFRA TR
Date: 04/28/23

63 South St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Kelsey Shea
Seller: Christopher Robare
Date: 04/27/23

WESTHAMPTON

197 Southampton Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Judith Lewis
Seller: Sharon P. Lewis
Date: 04/27/23

Building Permits

Building Permits

By

The following building permits were issued during the months of April and May 2023.

EASTHAMPTON

Center for Human Development
55 Union St.
N/A — Selective interior demolition

Bernard Gawle
14 Ward Ave.
N/A — Roofing

HADLEY

Joseph Czajkowski
Shattuck Road
N/A — Install dual-use solar array

LENOX

Boston University
45 West St.
$66,715 — Roofing

Bruce Stringer
529 Walker St.
$4,310 — Install four vinyl windows

 

 

PITTSFIELD

Roy Andersen Jr.
25 Bartlett Ave.
$6,010 — Replace five windows

Berkshire Family YMCA
292 North St.
$298,887 — Roof replacement over court and track; alterations to toddler room; add two new windows; add lockers and changing stalls at men’s locker room

Cedar Tree Investment Group LLC
409 West St.
$44,000 — Install 33 roof-mounted solar panels

Kidzone Child Care Educational
699 Dalton Ave.
$30,850 — Modify existing fire sprinkler system

NORTHAMPTON

Bang Bang LLC
29 Pleasant St., Unit C
$14,000 — Basement renovation for tattoo artist

Bowles Enterprises LLC
235 Main St.
$5,350 — Illuminated wall sign for Bagalan Cannabis

Glass Lake Partners LLC
43 Ladd Ave.
$4,000 — Build partition wall in storage area

Healthy Neighborhoods Group LLC
47 High St.
$18,000 — Siding

Lankleine Realty LLC
881 North K ing St.
$6,000 — Illuminated ground sign for Northeast Painting Associates

Northampton Rentals LLC
206 King St.
$3,000 — Illuminated ground sign for Advance Psychotherapy

Northampton Revolver Club
519 Ryan Road
$27,000 — Roofing

Rankin Holdings LLC
115 Conz St.
$220,000 — Demolish building

Smith College
7 College Lane
$15,000 — Remove mezzanine

Standick Trust
158 Main St.
N/A — Remove partition walls

SPRINGFIELD

1277 Liberty St. LLC
1295 Liberty St.
$24,000 — Alter tenant space for Ivy’s Events at Springfield Plaza for use as assembly area

CIG2 LLC
281 Belmont Ave.
$7,000 — Repair exterior rear egress system, install new Sonotube to left-side deficient post

City of Springfield
1170 Carew St.
N/A — Remodel entry of Van Sickle Academy into handicap-accessible passageway, remodel life-skills classroom.

Hector Bermudez
175 Oakland St.
$9,000 — Insulation

DDM Property Group LLC
1630 Boston Road
$185,000 — Remodel interior for new Hannoush Jewelers store

David Della Torre, Lynn Baker, Paul Della Torre
13 Morgan St.
$20,000 — Alter interior for accessible restroom, office, and storage area for vehicles

Five Town Station LLC
380 Cooley St.
$50,000 — Erect addition for additional dining seating at Texas Roadhouse

Ronald McDonald House of Springfield
34 Chapin Ter.
$242,454 — Remove and replace windows and siding

Stone Soul Inc.
41 Colton St.
$4,000 — Install new bathroom

Springfield Cemetery
171 Maple St.
$25,875 — Remove and replace garage roof

Haq Zahoor Ul
679 Main St.
$92,000 — Erect canopy #1 for gas station pumps

Haq Zahoor Ul
679 Main St.
$92,000 — Erect canopy #2 for gas station pumps

YMCA of Greater Springfield Inc.
1784 Dwight St.
$60,999 — Roofing

Daily News

1Berkshire Announces Return of Berkshire Trendsetter Awards

By

PITTSFIELD — 1Berkshire announced the return of its Celebrate the Berkshires premier event and the Berkshire Trendsetter Awards for 2023. Celebrate the Berkshires will be held on Thursday, Sept. 14 at the Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield, honoring the Berkshire region. At this event, 1Berkshire will announce the Putting the Berkshires on the Map honoree, as well as present the Berkshire Trendsetter Awards to exceptional individuals and businesses.

“After a three-year hiatus, we are so happy to be able to bring back the Trendsetter Awards, along with the Celebrate the Berkshires event,” 1Berkshire President and CEO Jonathan Butler said. “These awards allow us to shine a light on all the great work going on in our region and acknowledge how each of the nominated individuals and businesses truly makes the Berkshires a more vibrant place to work, live, and play.”

The Berkshire Trendsetter Awards recognize outstanding initiatives, talented people, and innovative organizations moving the Berkshires forward. Click here to learn more about the new award categories, and click here to submit nominations. The deadline to nominate is Friday, June 16. Nominees do not have to be members of 1Berkshire.

Daily News

HCC Lands $1.28M Grant to Create Free Human-services Internship Program

By

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) has landed a $1.28 million grant to launch a new, free certificate and internship program intended to help address a shortage of workers in the human-services industry.

The grant, from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health & Human Services, will cover the full cost of tuition, fees, books, and supplies for students who want to earn a certificate in human services coupled with a paid internship at one of four local social-service agencies.

Partnering with HCC on the grant are Gándara Center, ServiceNet, Mental Health Assoc., and Jewish Family Services.

“This program is really meant to accelerate a student’s entry into the workforce,” said Donna Rowe, chair of HCC’s Human Services program. “It’s wonderful that these four agencies have made this agreement with us. They’re looking for workers, and we have students looking to get into the field.”

The two-semester Social Service Internship Program will begin in the 2023-24 academic year, with up to 30 students starting this fall and another 30 next spring. Recruiting for those two classes is now underway.

The human-services industry presents a wide variety of career options for people who are interested in providing care to children, seniors, adolescents, the homeless, or individuals dealing with substance abuse or mental-health issues.

“This is a great opportunity for students to get into this field, get their academic and their learning experiences with us, and then have a placement with a community agency that could end up as a full-time paid position after their internship,” Rowe said. “Plus, their tuition and books and everything else is paid for. That’s huge.”

The total savings on attendance is estimated to be $5,384 per semester for full-time students. During their second-semester internship, students will receive a stipend of $2,500, which equates to roughly $20 per hour for 10 hours per week.

A 2018 report from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission detailed a gap of some 600 social-service and human-service workers in Western Mass., a deficit that has only widened due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There is definitely a big shortage of human-service workers, and it’s a challenge for agencies who have a variety of workers at different levels,” said Amy Brandt, HCC’s dean of Health Sciences. “They don’t have a lot of additional resources to develop that talent pool. They really are on shoestring budgets, trying to provide services to the community. When you look at this grant, it’s a huge investment that can really help fill their needs.”

The HCC Social Service Internship Program is modeled after other successful, grant-funded certificate/internship programs HCC has developed in the areas of community health and engineering.

Additionally, the grant provides for the creation of two new full-time positions: a human-services certificate coordinator to focus on recruiting, planning, and academic support; and a social-services coordinator to coordinate the internships and help students with any non-academic issues that might interfere with their education.

“A lot of community-college students have complicated lives that impact their success in school. For instance, they might be at risk of having their power turned off, or they are facing housing insecurity or childcare issues,” Brandt said. “The social-services coordinator is there to be somewhat of a case manager, to help students find the resources at the college or in the community they need so they can remain successful in the program.”

The 24-credit human-services certificate students earn can also be ‘stacked’ or applied toward an associate degree in human services, which could then lead to a bachelor’s degree in social work.

“The program really has the potential to set students up for lifelong learning and career advancement, and it’s also helping these social-service agencies meet their needs,” Brandt said.

For more information or to complete a general-interest form, visit hcc.edu/hsv-grant.

Daily News

bankESB Promotes Brenna Breeding to Digital Marketing Officer

By

EASTHAMPTON — bankESB recently promoted Brenna Breeding to Digital Marketing officer. She joined bankESB in 2020 as Digital Marketing manager. In her new role, she will be responsible for digital marketing content strategy and development and corporate website management, and will serve as the relationship manager for third-party vendors.

Breeding earned a bachelor’s degree in sport management from the University of Delaware and recently earned a marketing certificate from American Bankers Assoc. Bank Marketing School.

Daily News

Monson Savings Bank Donates $4,000 in Support of Monson Arts Council

By

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank recently made a $4,000 donation to the Monson Arts Council in support of the local arts.

David Dupuis of the Monson Arts Council expressed his gratitude to the community Bank. “Monson Savings Bank is very generous in their support of the Monson Arts Council and the local arts,” he noted. “We are very grateful for their longtime support. This donation in particular will be essential to our Spring Art Exhibition and Sale.”

Susan James of the Monson Arts Council was also thankful for the donation. “The Monson Arts Council is so fortunate to have a community partner like Monson Savings,” she said. “The bank has been a longtime supporter of the Monson Arts Council. It is because of loyal supporters like them that we can continue our mission.”

Dan Moriarty, Monson Savings Bank president and CEO, added that “Monson Savings is always happy to lend our support to community organizations in any way that we can. The Monson Arts Council does so much to bring the town of Monson and the surrounding communities together through the arts. As a lifelong resident of Monson, I am always so impressed by the events and workshops the council puts together.”

Daily News

Hooplandia Announces More Corporate Partners

By

SPRINGFIELD — Hooplandia, presented by Dunkin’ and co-hosted by Eastern States Exposition and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, is set to debut on the Big E fairgrounds June 23-25. The 3-on-3 tourney and festival announced that its official healthcare partner is Baystate Health.

The healthcare organization will have a presence on the grounds during the event weekend, featuring a branded vehicle, an informative vendor table, and even some representation participating on the courts.

“Baystate Health is pleased to be a sponsor for the very first Hooplandia basketball tournament,” said Annamarie Golden, director of Community Relations at Baystate Health. “We are excited to be part of an event where people can be active and engage in a game that is such a key piece of Western Massachusetts history. We hope Hooplandia will become an annual event we can all look forward to.”

In addition, Hooplandia announced that its official vehicle is Ford via a new partnership with Ford Dealers of New England, which will have an on-grounds presence during the tournament weekend, featuring a range of vehicles.

Through the newly formed partnership, Ford Dealers of New England will sponsor Hooplandia’s high-school freshman elite, high-school varsity elite, and college elite divisions.

Hooplandia is more than just a 3-on-3 tournament for all-star and recreational players throughout New England and beyond; it’s an all-inclusive festival filled with hands-on experiences for children and family, entertainment by DJ Meechie, an early taste of some of the Big E’s popular eats, and much more.

Registration for the tournament is open at www.hooplandia.com. Teams that complete registration by June 4 will receive a ticket to the 2023 Big E, scheduled for Sept. 15 to Oct. 1; a Dunkin’ gift card; and tickets to a Connecticut Sun game for each member. The final deadline for registration is June 19. Ten dollars of every team sign-up will be donated to Hooplandia’s philanthropic partner, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Springfield.

Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

BusinessTalk with Alison Berman, council director of Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts

By

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachusetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 163: May 22, 2023

BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Alison Berman, council director of Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts

Girls today deal with a host of challenges, from school stress to social pressures and much more, all of which can weigh on their happiness and health, both physical and mental. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Alison Berman, council director of Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts, an organization that uses running as a framework for crucial lessons on self-care, managing emotions, empathy, gratitude, building confidence … the list goes on. Just weeks before its celebratory 5K event steps off on June 3, Berman explains why Girls on the Run’s mission resonates so powerfully.

 

Sponsored by:

Also Available On

Daily News

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Supports RiverCulture Series of Summer Events

By

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank announced its sponsorship of the 2023 Summer Event Series organized by RiverCulture, the creative-economy program of the town of Montague. The series features a variety of cultural events happening in the five villages of Montague and the Turners Falls Cultural District, including live music, outdoor movies, theater, family activities, and festivals.

The series aims to showcase the rich and diverse cultural offerings of the region and to foster community engagement and enjoyment. As a community bank, Greenfield Cooperative Bank is committed to supporting local arts and culture and to enhancing quality of life for its customers and neighbors.

“We are delighted to partner with RiverCulture and to contribute to the vibrant and creative atmosphere of Montague and Turners Falls,” said Tony Worden, president and CEO of Greenfield Cooperative Bank. “We hope that everyone will take advantage of these wonderful opportunities to enjoy some great entertainment and to connect with their fellow residents.”

Paper copies of the calendar of events are available at local retail stores and restaurants, or can be downloaded at www.riverculture.org.

Daily News

Massachusetts Unemployment Down Slightly in April

By

BOSTON — The state’s April total unemployment rate was 3.3%, down 0.2% from the revised March estimate of 3.5%, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) preliminary job estimates indicate Massachusetts gained 5,100 jobs in April. This follows March’s revised gain of 12,100 jobs. The largest over-the-month private-sector job gains were in education and health services; information; and professional, scientific, and business services. Employment now stands at 3,759,200. Massachusetts gained 697,600 jobs since the employment low in April 2020.

From April 2022 to April 2023, BLS estimates Massachusetts gained 99,100 jobs. The largest over-the-year gains occurred in education and health services; professional, scientific, and business services; and leisure and hospitality.

The state’s April unemployment rate of 3.3% was 0.1 percentage point below the national rate of 3.4% reported by BLS.

The labor force decreased by an estimated 2,200 from the revised estimate of 3,741,200 in March, as 8,300 more residents were employed and 10,500 fewer residents were unemployed over-the-month. Over-the-year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was down by 0.4%.

The state’s labor-force participation rate — the total number of residents 16 or older who worked or were unemployed and actively sought work in the last four weeks — dropped by 0.1 percentage point to 64.9% over-the-month. Compared to April 2022, the labor-force participation rate was down 0.5%.

Daily News

LightHouse Holyoke Signs Agreement for Possible New Home

By

HOLYOKE — LightHouse Personalized Education for Teens in Holyoke announced it has signed a purchase-and-sale agreement for the historic Congregation of the Sons of Zion building in downtown Holyoke. The agreement establishes a 120-day inspection and planning period to determine the viability of the move.

LightHouse is a personalized, competency-based middle and high school now in its eighth year in its current location in the STEAM Building at 208 Race Street in Holyoke. LightHouse’s tagline is “changing what school can be.”

“The location is perfect for us. It’s in great shape for a 120-year old building, but it will need extensive renovation to come up to code for a school and to meet our needs,” said Catherine Gobron, co-founder and executive director of LightHouse Holyoke. “It’s exciting. This could be our new home. We hope it will be.”

Current renovation estimates are being drawn up and are expected to run well into the millions of dollars, Gobron added. “We’re in the beginning stages of applying for grants and preparing for a capital campaign to fund all the work that needs to be done.”

LightHouse has grown strategically during its eight years, from a program serving 36 students in its first year, 2015, to its current enrollment of 75 students. Students come from towns and cities across the Pioneer Valley, including Holyoke, and as far away as New Haven, Conn. Almost half of the student body are Holyoke public-school students who attend LightHouse full-time through a public-private partnership, a model for innovation for school districts everywhere.

The plan for the school, according to Gobron, is to remain small, growing to not more than 120 students. The move to a permanent home would allow LightHouse to reach that goal possibly within its first 10 years. “If everything comes together, we see ourselves there by 2025,” she said.

The Sons of Zion building is located at 378 Maple St., on the corner of Cabot Street, diagonally across from Holyoke Library Park and the Holyoke Public Library. It has been the home of the Congregation of the Sons of Zion since 1904.

Daily News

Florence Bank Awards $150,000 to Nonprofits in Customers’ Choice Community Grants

By

FLORENCE — In its 21st year, Florence Bank’s Customers’ Choice Community Grants Program awarded $150,000 to 46 area nonprofits in honor of the bank’s 150th anniversary.

“I know the total we announced we would award this year was $125,000, but I feel like $150,000 would be a more appropriate amount to celebrate the 150 years that Florence Bank has been in existence,” President and CEO Matt Garrity said in leading his first Customers’ Choice celebration on May 16. “It’s amazing to see so many community organizations being recognized, and the fact that the recognition comes from Florence Bank customers in the form of votes is really special.”

Garrity handed checks to 46 nonprofit leaders across the region, awarding 13 with $5,000 gifts — the most ever granted in 21 years — and presenting $500 surprise awards to 10 organizations that fell just short of the required 50-vote count.

These organizations received $5,000 grants: Dakin Humane Society, Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Amherst Survival Center, Friends of the Williamsburg Library, Northampton Survival Center, Goshen Firefighter’s Assoc. Inc., Cancer Connection, Manna Soup Kitchen, It Takes a Village, Friends of Forbes Library, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Our Lady of the Hills Parish, and Friends of Lilly Library.

These 23 organizations also received an award: Williamsburg Firefighter Assoc., $4,701; Bernese Auction Rescue Coalition Inc., $4,652; Easthampton Community Center, $4,309; Friends of M.N. Spear Memorial Library, $4,064; Northampton Neighbors, $4,064; Springfield Shriners Hospitals for Children, $3,917; Grow Food Northampton Inc., $3,819; Amherst Neighbors, $3,721; Smith Vocational High School PTO, $3,721; Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Charter School, $3,624; Performing Arts Charter School, $3,575; Therapeutic Equestrian Center, $3,575; Kestrel Land Trust, $3,427; Edward Hopkins Educational Foundation, $3,330; Northampton Community Music Center, $3,232; Safe Passage, $3,134; Empty Arms Bereavement Support, $2,987; New Hingham Elementary School PTO, $2,987; R.K. Finn Ryan Road School, $2,889; Whole Children, $2,693; Belchertown K-9, $2,595; Northampton Football League, $2,545; and Tapestry, $2,448.

Finally, these 10 organizations received unexpected $500 awards: the Children’s Advocacy Center of Hampshire County, Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity, Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holyoke, Gray House, Holyoke Community College Foundation, Mental Health Assoc. Inc., Springfield Rescue Mission, the Parish Cupboard, and Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center.

Voting takes place all year long, online at www.florencebank.com/vote and in bank branches, and each customer has only one vote. To qualify for a community grant, organizations must receive at least 50 votes. In 2022, roughly 7,000 votes were cast, making 36 nonprofits eligible for a grant; the other 10 funded organizations were invited to attend the event and were surprised with their $500 award. Over the past 21 years, Florence Bank has donated a total of $1.5 million to 165 organizations.

Daily News

Delaney’s Market Store to Open in South Hadley

By

SOUTH HADLEY — Owner Peter Rosskothen is announced the opening of a Delaney’s Market store located at 459 Granby Road, South Hadley. The grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebration is scheduled for Thursday, May 25 at 10 a.m.

“We are excited to be opening our next Delaney’s Market in my hometown of South Hadley,” Rosskothen said. “We are looking forward to welcoming the local community into our newest location and welcome the press, supporters, and friends to join us for this special event.”

Delaney’s Market is a retail store that features chef-inspired, ready-made meals that are fresh and ready to serve with no real effort. Delaney’s Market strives to assist the busy individual or family that wants to eat a quality lunch or dinner at their home or office without the hassle of long prep times or high costs. The South Hadley location is unique because it is the new home of Delaney Market’s production kitchen.

This is the fourth Delaney’s Market store; the first one is located at the Longmeadow Shops in Longmeadow and has been open since 2016. The Wilbraham and Westfield locations have been open since 2019.

“I am grateful for the support we have gotten over the years and excited to grow across Western Massachusetts,” Rosskothen said. “We live in a great place with great people.”

Daily News

Virtual Program to Examine the Workplace Reset

By

PITTSFIELD — The workplace reset is real, troublesome, and challenging. Business media buzzes with reports of companies requiring employees to return to work, shrinking their office space, or introducing ‘hoteling’ practices. Offsetting these trends are the increased appetite of many employees for flexible work schedules, while fewer people are quitting their jobs, according to a breaking report from the ADP Research Institute. And looming large is the rise of AI devices in workplaces.

“The Workplace Reset” is the topic of the next Dulye Leadership Experience (DLE) virtual program on Friday, June 9, when a diverse group of professionals will exchange experiences and perspectives in a frank conversation about changing expectations. Participants will speak about how their workplace is handling this reset and what they are doing to manage this reset in their companies, work teams, and social connections.

This one-hour, virtual program starts at noon and features moderated discussion as well as breakout sessions. There is no fee to attend. To promote an open and transparent space, the program will not be recorded. To register, click here.

Daily News

United Way of Pioneer Valley to Present Free OnBoard Workshop

By

SPRINGFIELD — United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) will offer a free OnBoard workshop for newly elected nonprofit board members as well as potential nonprofit board members.

The interactive workshop will be held on Thursday, June 1 from 2 to 4:30 p.m., with a social hour directly following the training. Registration is required to attend. Workshop topics include how to identify boards that align with your own interests and how to get your name on a nonprofit’s radar as a potential board member. Various board models will also be discussed.

“Since incorporating the OnBoard program into the UWPV family of programs, it has been our intent to provide relevant training and workshops for new board members in the region,” said Jason Newmark, president of the UWPV board. “We believe this is a significant way for UWPV to support our fellow nonprofit organizations. We invite new and potential board members to take full advantage of the abundant, shared knowledge that will be in the room.”

Space in the program is limited, so UWPV encourages people to register soon. To do so, contact Jennifer Kinsman at (413) 693-0212 or [email protected].

Daily News

Keiter Corp. Spins Off Site-work Division into Wholly Owned Subsidiary

By

FLORENCE — Keiter Corp. has formally spun off its excavation and site-work division, Hatfield Construction Inc., into a wholly owned subsidiary in a move that President Scott Keiter said poises the new organization for growth. Historically, the division served only Keiter clients, but it will now scale up to serve many other clients in the industry.

Key leaders in the firm will be Bill Moynihan, director of Operations, in charge of project management and field operations; and Dylan Courtney, director of Pre-construction, who will oversee project development, estimating, and sales.

“The businesses are run differently from one another, have different needs, and now have entirely separate management teams,” Keiter said. “We’re now able to position ourselves for continued growth, and we are excited about the opportunity for Hatfield Construction to develop new relationships with other contractors and builders in the region and partner with them on their construction projects.”

Hatfield Construction offers services including trucking and hauling, excavation, demolition, sewer and water, septic systems, land clearing, stormwater systems and trenching for underground utilities. Keiter said the business also works closely with solar companies, assisting them with trenching and ground-mount systems.

Hatfield Construction has approximately 20 employees in roles ranging from equipment operator and laborer to site foreman and management.

“Hatfield Construction ensures the same core values and quality of service as its parent company,” Courtney said.

Keiter added that “we bring a high level of professionalism to the table. We have a deep reservoir of talent on staff, and we’re always up for the challenge of complex projects.”

Moynihan has been with Keiter for eight years. He holds an associate degree in architecture from Springfield Technical Community College and a bachelor’s in building construction technology from UMass Amherst.

Hired last fall, Courtney holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Nichols College and an MBA from Washington State University. He is also certified in construction project management by Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Hatfield Construction offers a broad scope of services. Current projects include the development of an outdoor exercise ‘airnaseum,’ or open-air gymnasium, at Hampshire Regional YMCA; infrastructure upgrades to Parsons House at Smith College, including a new elevator shaft; and excavation, stormwater systems, and other site work on Belchertown property being developed by Cutchins Programs for Children & Families.

Daily News

John Ciolek Joins Team at Associated Builders

By

SOUTH HADLEY — John Ciolek recently joined the team at Associated Builders in South Hadley, where he will be active in sales, finance, and administration. He will also spearhead activities in the Ciolek family’s commercial real-estate business.

Associated Builders (AB) is a third-generation, family-owned, design-build general contractor that has served the Pioneer Valley for morenthan five decades. Founded by his father in the early ’70s, John’s three brothers — Michael, Paul, and Tom — have led AB for the past 30-plus years. This is a return to the company of sorts for John, as he worked with the field crews with his brothers throughout his high-school and college years, gaining practical knowledge of the construction business. The company has grown tremendously since then and has completed projects across New England with a focus on Western Mass. and Northern Conn.

John Ciolek brings extensive experience in finance and strategy garnered over a long career in banking and corporate strategy. Most recently, he was head of Strategic Initiatives at NGL Energy, where he was responsible for the company’s M&A activities and its sustainability efforts. Prior to that, he had a decades-long career on Wall Street, over the course of which he served as a managing director in Investment Banking for Credit Suisse, JP Morgan, and Citigroup. He started his banking career as a corporate lender for Shawmut Bank in Hartford, Conn. before attending the University of Michigan, where he received his MBA. He received a bachelor’s degree in political economy from Williams College in Williamstown.

Daily News

Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley to Host Exclusive Ride and Drive Event Today

By

NORTHAMPTON — Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley will host a Ride and Drive event today, May 18, from 4 to 6 p.m., offering a unique opportunity for car enthusiasts and eco-conscious consumers to experience the cutting-edge C40 electric vehicle. The event will take place at Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley, 48 Damon Road, Northampton.

During the event, attendees will have the chance to get behind the wheel of the highly anticipated Volvo C40, allowing them to experience the performance and handling of the C40, as well as its range and eco-friendly features.

Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley will offer free gifts to all attendees. Additionally, Caravan Kitchen will be present, providing complimentary food to further enhance the attendees’ experience. In addition, attendees will have the chance to win an array of door prizes, including tickets to the June 12 Red Sox game, restaurant gift certificates, and an opportunity to win two tickets to the Ed Sheeran concert in Boston on June 29.

“We are delighted to invite the community to our Ride and Drive event and showcase the incredible capabilities of the Volvo C40 electric vehicle,” said Carla Cosenzi, president of Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley.

Interested individuals are encouraged to RSVP in advance by clicking here.

Daily News

Rachel’s Table Celebrates 30 Years with Bountiful Bowls Fundraiser

By

SPRINGFIELD — On Tuesday, June 13 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke, Rachel’s Table, a program of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts, will hold its biennial fundraiser, Bountiful Bowls. The evening will celebrate the organization’s 30 years of serving the community; honor its founders, mentors, and supporters, and share information about its launch as a new nonprofit entity.

“Rachel’s Table is the premier food rescue and distribution program in Western Massachusetts and wouldn’t be where it is today without those who contribute in instrumental ways,” said Jodi Falk, director of Rachel’s Table. “We look forward to celebrating our 30 years and honoring all those involved.”

Dave Brinnel, comedian and musician, will emcee the evening and will be joined by honorary chair and former state Sen. Eric Lesser. Among the honorees are the 10 female founders of Rachel’s Table in Springfield: Judy Ingis, Myra Gold, Susanne Osofsky, Liz Kittredge Rome, Patti Weber Weiner, Linda Skole, Ronnie Leavitt, Nancy Posnick, the late Daydie Hochberg, and Margie Berg.

The Springfield program was modeled after the first Rachel’s Table in Worcester and has grown into a full-fledged hunger-alleviation program, which is the main reason it is now becoming its own nonprofit entity.

Also being honored are four mentors that have helped Rachel’s Table in its most recent growth phase, offering their skills and talents in seminal ways. They are Janice Greenberg, Jon Lasko, Jerry Munic, and the late Joseph Dorison.

Finally, the Arbella Insurance Foundation will be honored as the entity that helped initiate the Growing Gardens program at Rachel’s Table, its food-equity and access program that works directly with those most affected by food insecurity to grow their own food.

Food, refreshments, film, and entertainment will support Rachel’s Table’s 30th-year celebration to honor its past, present, and future. Visit www.rachelstablepv.org to learn more about the event and purchase tickets.

Daily News

Florence Bank Celebrates 150 Years of Doing Business with Giveaway

By

FLORENCE — To commemorate 150 years in business, Florence Bank is drawing on its partnership with the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield to offer a chance for 12 community members to win complimentary use of the popular venue’s birthday room.

In addition to the use of the room, one winner from each of the bank’s 12 branches will receive 10 general-admission tickets to the Hall of Fame and a goody bag for each party guest.

“It’s our birthday, but we’d like to celebrate it by making the birthdays of others a little more special,” Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity said.

Those entering the giveaway can complete a ballot at any of the bank’s branches or visit florencebank.com/bday. The contest ends June 2. Winners will be chosen on Monday, June 5.

May 6, 1873, marks the date of the first 25 deposits at Florence Savings Bank, totaling $825.75. Henry Bond was the bank’s first treasurer, and its founding president was Alfred Lilly. The first trustees and corporators were business owners, shopkeepers, farmers, and community leaders, and the mission of the community bank was to help citizens safely save their money and make a significant contribution in the lives of the people of Hampshire County.

“We’ve grown a lot in the past century and a half, but we have remained true to our core values,” Garrity said. “We still have business owners, shopkeepers, and community leaders on our board, and our mission remains the same as it was 150 years ago. We remain a mutual bank, unbeholden to stockholders. We provide the best possible service to customers, and we are proud community partners, giving back in many areas to help our neighbors thrive.”

Florence Bank’s original home was the second floor of the Davis Building on Main Street in Florence. It has outgrown its space twice, moving into a two-story brick building next door in 1891 and again in 1978 to its present main office.

The first branch outside Florence was opened at the corner of King and Finn streets in Northampton in 1986, and the most recent branch in Chicopee cut the ribbon on May 5, 2021.

In 1880, Florence Bank made history when Mary Bond, the sister of Henry Bond, became the bank’s second treasurer and the first woman to hold the office of treasurer of a savings bank in the state. She served as principal of the Northampton public schools and later as the first woman elected to the Northampton School Committee.

Bond was followed in 1891 by Mary Gould, who was succeeded in 1911 by another woman, Emilie Plimpton.

Growth came steadily for the bank, most notably during World War II, when it received a record number of deposits. These came mainly from government allotments to area residents serving in the military. In the 1950s, a time of rapid growth in the local housing market, the bank was a principal source of home mortgages for Florence residents. Today, Florence Bank’s assets total $1.8 billion.

Daily News

First Annual Jack Rome Memorial 5K Established

By

HOLYOKE — Local canine celebrity Jack Rome, official greeter of Gary Rome Auto Group, who peacefully passed away on Oct. 10, 2022, will now be memorialized with an annual 5K run/walk to benefit the Foundation for Thomas J. O’Connor (TJO) Animals.

Sponsored by Gary Rome Hyundai and Western Mass News, the first annual Jack Rome Memorial 5K will take place on Saturday, Oct. 7 at 10 a.m. at Forest Park in Springfield, and will be a family- and dog-friendly event. Click here to register.

All funds raised will be donated directly to the Foundation for TJO Animals and will be used specifically for medical and veterinary care, emergency surgery, and rehabilitation services to help the animals find new, loving homes.

“Jack lived a very full and happy life for 13 years,” said Gary Rome, president of Gary Rome Auto Group. “When I was at work, Jack was at work. He brought a million smiles to customers and employees, and I am so thankful his memory will live on and benefit the animals at TJO.”

Hugh Zeitlin, news director of Western Mass News, said the station’s employees voted to make TJO the station charity for 2023 because of the positive impact it has on the community.

“Jack’s been around for a long time and been going to work with him every day, so we decided that this would be a wonderful idea to raise money for the Foundation for TJO Animals and start an annual memorial 5K walk/run in honor of Jack Rome,” said Stewart Bromberg, executive director for the Foundation for TJO Animals.

Jack Rome was a Vizsla breed, a Hungarian hunting dog. He embodied the common Vizsla traits of affectionate, loyal, and energetic, yet quiet and gentle. He appeared in all Gary Rome Hyundai Kia advertisements and filmed many commercials alongside Gary and 2-year-old ‘sister’ Daisy, also a Vizsla.

The Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center provides comprehensive animal-control services and programs to the Western Mass. community for the protection of animals, public health, safety, and the environment. TJO responsibly places unclaimed and relinquished animals into care and new adoptive homes. Its animal-control officers respond to routine service calls daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Emergency response for ill, injured, or aggressive animals is available 24 hours a day. The TJO Adoption Center, located at 627 Cottage St. in Springfield, provides a second chance for adoptable dogs, cats, and occasionally other animals.

To inquire about sponsorship opportunities or obtain more information, contact Dara Davignon, executive assistant to Gary Rome, at [email protected] or (413) 420-8049.

Daily News

Western Mass. EDC, MGM Springfield to Host Local Supplier Diversity Networking Event

By

SPRINGFIELD — The Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC) and MGM Springfield are collaborating to host a networking event on Tuesday, May 23 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Aria Ballroom of MGM Springfield.

The event is designed to provide support to local vendors, including minority-owned, women-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, and veteran-owned businesses. The goal is to bring regional anchor institutions and local vendors that provide goods and services together. Vendors will have the opportunity to meet directly with the MGM Springfield sourcing team and learn about future vendor contracts. Support will be available to prepare and scale potential vendors for contracts.

The event is influenced by the Western Massachusetts Anchor Collaborative (WMAC), which provides comprehensive, systemic, and locally led solutions to regional women- and minority-owned businesses (MWBE) and workforce challenges. The EDC and MGM Springfield hope to enhance their impact and drive regional economic equity and financial vitality for their communities by connecting stakeholders in the region. This is done through networking events and assistance in cultivating a resilient local supplier pipeline. Attendees and vendors can register for the event by clicking here.

Representatives from the Center for Women Enterprises, the Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council Inc., and the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office will speak at the event and provide guidance and information regarding available resources and vendor-certification opportunities.

“We are strengthening the relationships between large anchor institutions and local vendors, creating a more resilient and connected economy in Western Massachusetts,” said Rick Sullivan, president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts EDC. “The upcoming supplier networking event is a key part of this effort, providing an opportunity for local businesses of all backgrounds to connect with MGM Springfield and learn about upcoming contracts and, more importantly, making that direct connection with leaders from MGM Springfield and partnering organizations.”

Arlen Carballo, MGM Springfield’s vice president of Finance Operations, added that “MGM Springfield is thrilled to partner with the EDC to bring local vendors and members of our sourcing team together. This event is part of our continued commitment to advance diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our business, paving the way for positive economic impact in our community.”

Daily News

‘To Boldly Grow: Judaism, Food, and Sustainability’ Panel Discussion Slated for May 31

By

PITTSFIELD — On Wednesday, May 31 at 7:30 p.m., the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires will present “To Boldly Grow: Judaism, Food, and Sustainability,” an inspirational and timely discussion with journalist and author Tamar Haspel. This free event, part of Super Tzedakah Week focusing on the federation’s commitment to sustaining its community and world, will take place at Hancock Shaker Village, 1843 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield.

Haspel writes the James Beard Award-winning Washington Post column “Unearthed,” which tackles food from every angle: agriculture, nutrition, obesity, the food environment, and DIY. Her memoir, To Boldly Grow: Finding Joy, Adventure, and Dinner in Your Own Backyard, recounts her experiences living off the food grid in Cape Cod.

Haspel will be in conversation with Shamu Sadeh and Janna Siller, environmentalists and educators from the Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Center, on the vital Jewish themes of sustainability in one’s backyard, community, and planet. The panel will be moderated by Elisa Spungen Bildner, a journalist, author (Berkshire Farm to Table Cookbook with Robert Bildner), and federation vice president.

For more on this program, which is also part of “Jewish Literary Voices,” a Jewish Federation of the Berkshires series in collaboration with the Jewish Book Council, and other federation events, visit the calendar of events at jewishberkshires.org.

Daily News

Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council Welcomes Two New Hires

By

SPRINGFIELD — The Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC) announced the hiring of two new professionals, Kayla Soto and Aurora Pierangelo. With years of experience in their respective fields and a shared passion for driving growth and development in Western Mass., they are well-positioned to contribute to the mission of the EDC.

Soto has joined the team as the new associate director of Economic Development and Special Projects. Originally from Manchester, Conn., she earned her bachelor’s degree in educational studies from Elms College and her master’s degree in higher educational leadership from Drexel University. With a professional background rooted in academia, community, and workforce development, she previously served as assistant director of Admissions and Collegiate Admission manager for Hillyer College at the University of Hartford, as well as the Lincoln Technical Institute and the Hartford Job Corps. She is also an accomplished entrepreneur with an online children’s clothing store.

As a proud Latina businesswoman, Soto aspires to bring her diverse background and passion for growth to the EDC team. As associate director of Economic Development and Special Projects, she will be responsible for overall project and program management, planning, and leading events for the Western Massachusetts EDC, as well as building community and partnerships with regional leaders and stakeholders.

“Kayla has hit the ground running, and we are excited to have her on the team,” said Xiomara DeLobato, vice president and chief to staff at the Western Massachusetts EDC. “Her expertise in community outreach and higher education, combined with her entrepreneurial spirit, will be invaluable as we work to drive growth in Western Massachusetts.”

Pierangelo joined the team as the new accounting specialist. With a diverse background and experience in managing complex organizations, she is responsible for managing various financial portfolios of the EDC. Previously, she served as assistant director of the Fraternity Managers Assoc. at the University of Rhode Island, where she managed 18 fraternity, sorority, and independent living-learning communities. There, she expanded house director training programs, managed new software implementations, and improved financial-management practices.

A Western Mass. native, Pierangelo graduated with her MBA from Bay Path University and a bachelor’s degree in music theatre from SUNY Geneseo. She also manages a nonprofit, the Wilbraham Welcome Project. She is passionate about giving back to her community and excited to bring this same enthusiasm to her work with the Western Massachusetts EDC.

“We are thrilled to welcome Aurora to the EDC team,” said Richard Sullivan, president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts EDC. “With her excellent financial background in managing organizations and developing programs to support staff and community members, Aurora is the perfect fit for our team.”

Daily News

Tech Foundry Opens Applications for Fall Classes

By

SPRINGFIELD — Tech Foundry, the regional leader in IT workforce development and training, has opened applications for its fall 2023 classes, which will run from Aug. 21 through Dec. 22.

Tech Foundry’s training includes 14 weeks of tech-focused classes supported by professional-development activities and individualized coaching and tutoring, followed by four weeks of internship experience and ongoing job-placement support. Tech Foundry’s graduates successfully launch careers in IT help-desk and technical-support roles, as well as network administration and digital imaging and deployment positions, leading to living-wage jobs in the technology sector.

To learn more, join one of the upcoming information sessions by clicking here. To apply, click here and complete the application by July 17.

Daily News

Springfield Symphony Chorus to Give Concert in Holyoke on May 20

By

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Symphony Chorus will give a spring concert, titled “Sing, Praise, Light,” on Saturday, May 20 at 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 34 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

Tickets cost $10, cash only, and are available at the door. Doors open at 3:15 p.m. The chorus will perform eclectic choral works based on themes of “Sing, Praise, Light.”

In addition to chorus recitals, the Springfield Symphony Chorus collaborates and performs with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra each concert season. During the 2022-23 concert season, the chorus performed during the Holiday Pops concert at Symphony Hall.

The Springfield Symphony Chorus is an unpaid professional group of singers from throughout the Greater Connecticut River Valley. Auditions for new chorus members typically take place in September and January. Those interested in becoming part of the Springfield Symphony Chorus should contact President Claire Folini at [email protected].

Daily News

DTA Honors Food Bank of Western Massachusetts with Lauren Arms Ledwith Award

By

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced that the Lauren Arms Ledwith Award for 2023 has been awarded to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and its outstanding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) outreach team.

The Food Bank was awarded this honor at the Department of Transitional Assistance’s (DTA) annual meeting with more than 100 local SNAP community-outreach partners. The award was presented to Christina Maxwell, Beth Ziemba, Megan Schuck, Stephanie Gibbs, and Luis Perez Jr. for continuously demonstrating a commitment to creating a better tomorrow for their communities by helping to eliminate hunger.

At the meeting, acting DTA Commissioner Mary Sheehan recognized the outstanding work done during the past year to connect residents with SNAP. Currently, almost 656,000 households receive SNAP benefits, a 45% increase from pre-pandemic levels.

“As we work closely with partners across the Commonwealth to respond to increased food insecurity and move towards a post-pandemic economy, we know that trusted, local resources are some of the first places people seek out for assistance. I am grateful for our new and existing partners’ joint efforts to help people access vital food resources,” Sheehan said. “The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts was one of our first SNAP outreach partners, and I am glad to honor them with the 2023 Lauren Ledwith Award to highlight their exceptional efforts to connect individuals and families with SNAP and thank them for their partnership.”

Since 1982, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been a pioneer in the community by providing food to individuals and families located in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. It has addressed food insecurity by meeting people where they are, conducting outreach at food pantries, meal sites, shelters, colleges, senior centers, correctional facilities, libraries, and veteran-serving agencies.

“The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts is extremely grateful to have been given this award in Lauren’s honor, and we are thankful for our ongoing partnership with DTA,” said Maxwell, director of Programs at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. “Together, we work hard every day to break down barriers and help people access the nutrition assistance they need.”

The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts joined the SNAP outreach-reimbursement project in 2010 and remains a strong ally helping families in the western part of the state enroll in SNAP. As a SNAP outreach partner, the Food Bank successfully completes about 1,100 applications each year.

Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

BusinessTalk with Paul Lambert, president and CEO of the SSO

By

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 162: May 15, 2023

Joe Bednar talks with Paul Lambert, president and CEO of the SSO

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra recently struck a harmonious note with its musicians, announcing a new, two-year labor deal. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Paul Lambert, president and CEO of the SSO, about how that deal came about and what it means moving forward. They also discuss the importance of the symphony to the region, the challenge of creating a robust and diverse season of performances, how the organization is connecting with the next generation of young music lovers, and much more. It’s must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

 

Sponsored by:

Also Available On

Daily News

Opening Date Set for Greenfield’s New Public Library

By

GREENFIELD — The grand opening ceremony for Greenfield’s new public library will take place on Thursday, July 13, with the library opening to the public immediately following the festivities.

The last day for library operations at the Leavitt Hovey House at 402 Main St. will be Saturday, June 17, with library collections being moved to the new building next door at 412 Main St. June 21-23. Once the collection has been put in place, staff will spend the time from June 26 to July 12 setting up the building, checking to make sure all the technology works the way it should, learning how to use new equipment, and finding where all the light switches are.

During the transition when the library is closed, patrons can continue to use the library’s website, greenfieldpubliclibrary.org, to access its online resources, such as Libby, Hoopla, and Kanopy, as well as Consumer Reports, archives of the Greenfield Recorder, and the library’s online subscription to the New York Times. In addition, the staff is busily preparing a number of online, virtual programs for patrons’ enjoyment.

Patrons will be able to reach staff via email, phone, and the ‘contact us’ form on the website, although response time may be slowed while computers and phones are being put in place.

Additional festivities will occur on Friday and Saturday, July 14-15. Keep an eye on the library’s website for information and details or register for one or more of the library’s email lists to receive updates at rb.gy/v8ua9.

Daily News

WNE, BCC Sign Joint Admissions Agreement

By

SPRINGFIELD — Berkshire Community College (BCC) signed an articulation agreement with Western New England University (WNE) on May 8, allowing BCC students to transfer seamlessly to WNE.

Representatives from the two colleges gathered at BCC’s Berkshire Science Commons, where BCC Vice President of Academic Affairs Laurie Gordy and WNE Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Maria Toyoda formally signed the agreement.

The joint admissions program, which is consistent with the individual missions, policies, and regulations of each institution, seeks to strengthen the academic and student-support partnerships between BCC and WNE, facilitate student access to baccalaureate and graduate education, and provide barrier-free movement for students enrolled in an associate-degree program at BCC to the baccalaureate graduate degrees at WNE.

“We are thrilled to partner with Berkshire Community College to provide a stepping stone for students looking to continue their education at WNE,” Toyoda said. “The signing of this document exemplifies WNE’s dedication to our community and meeting students where they are. We recognize that pathways to education are ever-evolving, and we are proud to meet students where they are and welcome them to our institution.”

Gordy added that “the articulation agreement with Western New England is particularly exciting for BCC because of the excellent quality of education at WNE and because of the geographical proximity of the two schools. We’re pleased that our BCC graduates will have another option to continue their education in the Commonwealth, and we’re proud to be able to make the transition easy and accessible for our students.”

Students will be informed about the opportunity to participate in the joint admissions program at the time they are applying to BCC. In order to satisfy the conditions of admissions into WNE, participating students must earn a minimum 2.50 cumulative CPA, earn at least a grade of a C- or better in their major coursework, and earn their associate degree. Students seeking joint admissions into specialized programs such as business, engineering, computer science, chemistry, or biology must satisfy all program requirements and earn the minimum cumulative GPA established for those programs.

Students who satisfy the requirements of the joint admissions program are eligible for guaranteed acceptance to WNE, provided they complete an approved associate-degree program at BCC and meet the requirements of the joint admissions program and major-specific requirements; guarantee of junior status at WNE upon matriculation with an associate degree; and guarantee of 60 transfer credits, with some stipulations.

Daily News

AIC Hosts Inaugural Pathway to Higher Education Forum

By

SPRINGFIELD — A new partnership between American International College (AIC) and two community groups working to promote access to higher education is designed to benefit families in Springfield by empowering parents to support their children’s academic success.

AIC joined hands with the Coalition of Experienced Black Educators (COEBE) and the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership to organize a recent community forum called “Parents as Partners on the Pathway to Higher Education,” reflecting the college’s values of access and community. The event, initiated by state Rep. Bud Williams, equipped dozens of families with valuable insight into the higher-education process and the crucial role parents play in their children’s college experience.

During the forum, keynote speaker and AIC President Hubert Benitez emphasized the importance of removing barriers to higher education and making it accessible to everyone, irrespective of their background or financial situation.

“AIC continues to fulfill its promise of working collaboratively with its community members and partners to increase awareness of the value of an education and to create structured pathways for students to pursue a higher-education degree,” Benitez said. “Collaborating with COEBE is another example of how members of our community can work together to continue to promote equality of opportunity and support the social mobility of the people of Mason Square and the city of Springfield.”

AIC was recently recognized as a top performer for social mobility by the 2022-23 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings. AIC’s ranking tied for number 69, placing second in Massachusetts in the report’s National College category, behind only UMass Boston.

Although the cost to obtain a college degree may be perceived as a barrier to higher education, the forum participants learned that the actual expense is frequently lower than the published ‘sticker price’ because students often obtain financial assistance through grants and scholarships. At AIC, 100% of students receive some form of financial aid.

The value of obtaining higher education was further supported by a recent study by the Georgetown University Center on Education and Workforce, which revealed that young Americans without a college degree are unlikely to find economic stability and are more likely to be stuck in low-earning jobs than not by age 30.

Daily News

WSU, HCC Announce Nursing-degree Partnership

By

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Westfield State University (WSU) will announce a new pathway for individuals to earn both an associate and a baccalaureate degree in nursing simultaneously or in a streamlined manner by combining the curricula of both programs. The concurrent program is the first in the Commonwealth.

Representatives from HCC and WSU will participate in a signing ceremony at HCC today, May 15, from 11 a.m. to noon in the Frost Building, Room 309.

Beginning one’s professional life as an RN with all the demands on new nurses in a post-COVID era can make it challenging to go back to school and earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. This program provides an opportunity for students to earn both their ASN and BSN credentials simultaneously before entering the workforce.

“The concurrent ADN-to-BSN pathway is an innovative approach to nursing education. It enables students to earn their ADN while simultaneously completing coursework that counts toward their BSN. This integration of education allows for a more efficient and streamlined approach to nursing education that is advantageous to some students,” WSU Executive Director of Nursing Jessica Holden said.

The ADN-to-BSN pathway creates efficiency for students as it incorporates a joint admission process, thereby eliminating the need for students to submit a separate application for admission to the university. By facilitating the attainment of a BSN, this pathway helps to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

“We’re excited. Working with Westfield State on this new program is huge,” HCC Director of Nursing Teresa Beaudry said. “We had to meet with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, who had to approve it, and they’re equally as excited as we are to create another pathway for nurses to advance in their education and a different way for those students who might not be able to get into a bachelor’s of nursing program.”

The concurrent nursing program will help address the nursing shortage by increasing the number of students who can get into a bachelor of nursing program and allow them to earn their degree faster.

According to a Massachusetts Health Policy Commission report, “registered-nurse vacancy rates in acute-care hospitals doubled from 6.4% in 2019 to 13.6% in 2022, with especially high vacancy rates in community hospitals. Employment in nursing and residential care facilities has not recovered since 2020 and remained below 2018 levels.”

Westfield State University President Linda Thompson noted that “collaboration and partnerships in education are imperative to build a solid workforce. We have seen a tremendous need to build capacity in nursing, and we are fortunate to have had wonderful collaboration with Holyoke Community College. This effort expands on our already productive, committed relationship to serve the communities of our region.”