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SPRINGFIELD — The Western New England University Small Business Legal Clinic is now accepting applications from entrepreneurs and small-business owners seeking legal assistance for the spring 2017 semester. Under faculty supervision, law students assist clients with legal issues, including choice of entity, employment policies, contract drafting, regulatory compliance, and intellectual-property issues relating to trademark applications and copyright.

This is a free service available to local businesses that would not otherwise have the resources to obtain these types of services. The Small Business Clinic at Western New England School of Law has assisted more than 300 small businesses.

“The clinic is a great resource for entrepreneurs who lack the finances to retain an attorney,” explained Law Professor Robert Statchen. “By using the clinic’s services, businesses can avoid problems by getting legal issues addressed early and correctly. It also provides students with a great opportunity to get real-world experience.”

Applications need to be submitted by Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017. Applications received after Jan. 5 will be considered if additional resources are available. Students will begin providing services in January. For more information, call the Small Business Legal Clinic at (413) 782-1469 or e-mail Marie Fletcher at [email protected].

The Western New England University Small Business Legal Clinic was established to provide law students with an opportunity to provide practical consultation to entrepreneurs starting new and building existing small businesses in the community.  This initiative strengthens alliances within the community by using the resources of the university to foster new-business development.

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SPRINGFIELD — The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley reported that single-family home sales in November were up 33.2% compared to the same time last year. The median price was down 2.9% to $187,498.

In Franklin County, sales were up 44.7% over the year, and median price down 2.2%. In Hampden County, sales were up 29.9%, and the median price remained the same. And in Hampshire County, sales were up 35.2%, and the median price down 5.8%.

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SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) earned the 2017 Military Friendly School designation by Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs, and Military Spouse.

First published in 2009, the list of Military Friendly Schools is provided to service members and their families, helping them select the best college, university, or trade school to receive the education and training needed to pursue a civilian career.

Institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from Victory Media’s proprietary survey. More than 1,700 schools participated in the 2017 survey, and 1,273 were awarded with the designation.

Ratings methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Victory Media with input from the Military Friendly Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher-education and military-recruitment communities. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer), and loan default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.

“American International College is proud to assist those men and women who serve our country. The college recognizes the value of the many educational and leadership experiences that occur in the Armed Forces, and the excellent foundation that military experience provides. In turn, we give veteran students transfer credits for service in the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard, helping service members and veterans get a head start on earning their degrees,” said AIC President Vince Maniaci.

According to Daniel Nichols, a Navy Reserve veteran and chief product officer at Victory Media, “our ability to apply a clear, consistent standard to the majority of colleges gives veterans a comprehensive view of which schools are striving to provide the best opportunities and conditions for our nation’s student veterans. Military Friendly helps military families make the best use of the Post-9/11 GI Bill and other federal benefits while allowing us to further our goal of assisting them in finding success in their chosen career fields.”

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EAST LONGMEADOW — HUB International New England, a division of HUB International Limited, a leading global insurance-brokerage, risk-advisory, and employee-benefits firm, announced that Lynn Citarella recently accepted the position of account manager, small commercial accounts in the East Longmeadow office.

In her new position, Citarella is responsible for the day-to-day management and servicing of small-business accounts, including, but not limited to, processing renewals, preparing summaries of insurance, verifying policy and policy-change information, recommending appropriate coverage options and changes, and meeting sales goals.

Citarella has been an employee of HUB International for more than 22 years and is a designated certified insurance counselor. Over the course of her career at HUB, she has held positions in the fields of information technology and mergers and acquisitions and has worked in various HUB offices in Connecticut and Eastern Mass.

HUB International New England also announce that Monique Matz, a commercial lines account manager in the East Longmeadow office, recently earned her property and casualty licenses.

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WARE — Community outreach has been part of the mission of Country Bank since its inception in 1850. Now, during this season of giving, the bank announced its support to organizations whose missions are similar — helping friends and neighbors in area communities.

Recently, donations were made to local senior centers and food pantries within the Country Bank market area, totaling more than $66,000. These donations are made without restriction for those necessary items that may not be met within annual budgets.

“We have been contacted by directors of the centers with comments such as, ‘now we can afford to get that new refrigerator we have been needing all year,’ or ‘now we can fill our shelves with items that so many local families are in need of,’” said Shelley Regin, the bank’s senior vice president, Marketing. “Supporting organizations such as the senior centers and food pantries is a way for us to reach many families in a meaningful way, and we are very pleased to be able to assist in this way.”

In addition to its monetary gifts that are made annually, Country Bank also sends teams of volunteers to help out at events such as the Ware Community Thanksgiving Dinner, or serving dinner at Friends of the Homeless and Trinity Episcopal Church’s monthly community dinner. In the coming weeks, they will also be seen throughout the area ringing the Salvation Army bell.

The bank’s volunteer team keeps busy throughout the year, Regin said, but during the holiday season, there is always an extra-special feeling for them when they give back to their towns.

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MONSON — For the seventh year in a row, Monson Savings Bank (MSB) is asking the community to help plan the bank’s community-giving activities by inviting people to vote for the organizations they would like the bank to support during 2017.

“Every year we donate over $100,000 to organizations doing important work in the communities we serve,” said Steve Lowell, president of MSB. “For several years now, we’ve been asking the community for input on which groups they’d like us to support, and we’ve been so pleased by how many people participate. We have learned of new organizations through this process, and we also just like the idea of asking our community for input. As a community bank, we think that’s important.”

To cast their vote, people can go to www.monsonsavings.bank/about-us/vote-community-giving. On that page, they can see a list of organizations the bank has supported in previous years, and provide up to three names of groups they’d like the bank to donate to in 2017. The only requirement is that the organizations be nonprofit and providing services in Ware, Hampden, Monson, or Wilbraham.

The voting ends at 3 p.m. on Jan. 18, 2017. The bank pledges to support the top 10 vote getters and will announce who they are by the end of January.

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Maureen Ross O’Connell, president of Ross Insurance Agency, was elected to serve on the board of directors for the Massachusetts Assoc. of Insurance Agents (MAIA). Her term begins Jan. 1, 2017.

O’Connell has worked with Ross Insurance Agency since 1978. She is a crtified insurance counselor and has previously served on the agents’ advisory panel for Encompass Insurance, including stints as vice chairperson and chairperson.

“MAIA is a member-driven association dedicated to preserving, strengthening, and promoting its members and the independent insurance agency system. Insurance agents in Massachusetts have experienced a lot of change in the past several years,” O’Connell said. “As an organization, MAIA is here to assist its members to traverse the ever-changing landscape and maintain market share. I look forward to advocating on behalf of the independent agents in Massachusetts.”

MAIA is a professional association for insurance agents throughout Massachusetts that offers continuing education opportunities for insurance professionals, advocates on behalf of independent insurance agents across Massachusetts, and keeps agents informed on current issues impacting insurance throughout the state and at the national level.

“MAIA is extremely pleased that Maureen has agreed to be a member of the board of directors of the association. Her experience as an agency owner and manager brings a perspective that will assist the board in better representing the association members,” said Frank Mancini, president and CEO of MAIA. “As a veteran of numerous insurance-company agency advisory councils, Maureen has a keen knowledge of the interactions between insurance agencies and companies that will bring an added value to her position on the board of directors.”

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SPRINGFIELD — Committed to the latest advancements in orthotic and prosthetic technology, Orthotics & Prosthetics Labs Inc. announced its latest acquisitions: the revolutionary new Spectra 3D scanner and Canfit software from Vorum, and Create Orthotics and Prosthetics’ 3D printing system.

According to Canada-based manufacturer Vorum, Spectra digitally captures millions of measurements of the body’s surface and creates an ultra-accurate, three-dimensional computer model. This model is then adjusted within Vorum’s Canfit software for the proper fit and sent to a 3D printer for fabrication.

“Spectra and Canfit have given us a new way to enhance a patient’s experience,” said Jim Haas, certified orthotist and president of Orthotics & Prosthetics Labs. “A previously time-consuming process is now completed in just a few hours, translating into better patient care and superior outcomes.”

The Spectra scanner captures an extremely accurate image of the patient’s limb within minutes. That image is then quickly and easily manipulated within the Canfit software, eliminating the need for plaster modification. Once adjusted for optimal fit, the resulting customized model is ready for fabrication with the Create 3D printing system.

In addition to the enhanced accuracy, this innovative digital process means increased productivity, digital modifications instead of having to physically redo casting, a more consistent end product, and software storage of the scan, whereas casts are destroyed.

Orthotics & Prosthetics Labs has seen these advantages benefit many already, such as infants who need reshaping helmets and patients with severe spinal disorders who need custom braces.

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BOSTON — Ten Massachusetts employers were awarded a total of $162,948 to help train employees in workplace safety and injury prevention, the state Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced.

“These grants continue to provide employees important training and education to help keep themselves and their co-workers safe on the job,” Gov. Charlie Baker said.

Added Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, “every year, thousands of workers in the Commonwealth receive training to make themselves and their work environments safer.”

The Department of Industrial Accidents administers and manages the Workplace Safety Training and Education Grant program to promote safe, healthy workplace conditions through training, education, and other preventative programs for businesses and employees covered by the Massachusetts workers’ compensation law.

This is the final round of grants in fiscal year 2016, which will train 460 employees. During the fiscal year, the Baker-Polito administration awarded a total of $696,000 to 44 companies to train nearly 5,000 workers.

Two Western Mass. organizations were among the grant recipients. Energía, LLC in Holyoke — an energy-services company that provides upgrades for residential, multi-family and commercial properties to reduce utility costs and energy use — received $14,274. Proposed training includes EPR renovation, OSHA 10, OSHA 30, confined space, office ergonomics, and CPR/first aid.

Medtronic, a medical-supply plant in Chicopee, received $8,795.40. The company’s training will include powered industrial trucks, CPR/FA/AED, job safety, and hazard recognition.

“This safety training increases a worker’s knowledge of their surroundings and job, bringing more opportunities for their growth and success,” Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Ronald Walker said.

The maximum grant amount per employer is $25,000. Businesses are awarded training grants through a competitive application process. The Department of Industrial Accidents will open another round of applications soon.

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SPRINGFIELD — Tech Foundry volunteers, partners, business leaders, friends, and family from across the area came together on Dec. 15 to celebrate another round of graduates ready to enter the IT job world in the Pioneer Valley.

“The class we’ve had this time around is truly remarkable. Now it’s time to build on that momentum,” said Tech Foundry Director of Strategic Partnerships Jonathan Edwards.

Delcie Bean, Tech Foundry’s founder and board chair, challenged the graduating students to “live up to the expectations that everyone in the room has for you by helping the Springfield economy grow and thrive.”

Families, friends, and employers also heard insights from guest speakers Carol Leary, president of Bay Path University; and Andrew Anderlonis, president of Rediker Software. Leary spoke to the 27 graduates about the profound connections made in the program, saying, “this is an experience you’ll talk about for the rest of your life.”

In remarks about the impact Tech Foundry is making on the region’s talent pipeline, Anderlonis referenced two students from the current Tech Foundry graduating class that had turned from intern to employee at Rediker.

“Tech Foundry has helped solve the problem of finding passionate and committed individuals by preparing and training talented and quality candidates for the evolving local tech workforce needs,” Anderlonis said. “With the recent hire of two graduates, Carlee Navarro and Lulu Mitchell, and a third hired this past summer, Rediker Software is invigorated to partner with such a fantastic local organization like Tech Foundry.”

Edwards concluded the event by adding, “the 27 students have officially become Tech Foundry alumni and have made their mark on us, as represented in the ceremonial wall signing. Now prepped with the tools and knowledge to make it in IT, they will enter the IT workforce earmarked for success.”

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HOLYOKE — The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce is donating a total of $1,000 to Margaret’s Pantry and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke Inc. on behalf of Bryan Marcotte of Marcotte Ford.

“There are always going to be people in need of help, and Marcotte Ford is committed to supporting our local community, making it stronger and ensuring that we are a part of Holyoke’s success,” Marcotte said.

Marcotte was named the 2016 Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year. A portion of the proceeds from the event’s advertising sales was set aside for Marcotte to donate to the charities of his choice.

“It’s such a pleasure to help Bryan invest in the organizations he believes in,” said Kathleen Anderson, president of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, who personally delivered the checks to Marcotte Ford.

Marcotte has been a long-time volunteer and consistent supporter of Margaret’s Pantry and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke. Margaret’s Pantry works to feed those in need of assistance throughout the year and depends heavily on monetary and volunteer assistance. “We are very grateful for Marcotte’s never-ending generosity,” said Brenda Lamagdeleine, program manager at Margaret’s Pantry.

The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke is another recipient of Marcotte’s goodwill, with an agency mission that aligns with Marcotte’s attention to youth development. “This donation goes a long way toward helping provide excellent programs for our kids,” said Eileen Cavanaugh, the organization’s president.

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SPRINGFIELD — On Thursday, Jan. 12, Mercy Behavioral Health Care will present a discussion of the issues surrounding the growing opioid problem and what can be done to reverse the trend.

Chris Herren, a former Boston Celtics player and recovering addict, will discuss his journey from addiction to sobriety. Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders will speak about the state’s efforts to address the opioid crisis. Dr. Robert Roose, chief medical officer and vice president of Addiction and Recovery Services for Mercy Behavioral Health Care, will provide information about the impact of the opioid problem in Western Mass. and explain how Mercy Behavioral Health Care plans to combat this disease. The event will take place at CityStage in Springfield from 6 to 8 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Herren has refocused his life to put his sobriety and family above all else; he attends meetings daily to support his substance-free lifestyle and often speaks before groups trying to overcome addiction to share his experiences and road to sobriety. Professionally trained as a social worker, Sudders leads the largest executive agency in state government, a $21 billion state budget with 22,000 public servants, and oversees critical services that touch one in four residents of the Commonwealth. Board-certified in both family medicine and addiction medicine, Roose’s expertise on addiction treatment is highly sought after, primarily in the area of medication-assisted treatment for opioid-use disorder.

The lecture is free and open to the public, but reservations are required, as seats are limited. Register by calling (413) 748-9935 or visiting mercycares.com/waystogive.

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CHICOPEE — The College of Our Lady of the Elms School of Nursing received $2,000 to fund a nursing scholarship from the veterans honor society called La Societé des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux (the Society of Forty Men and Eight Horses, or the Forty & Eight).

On Dec. 16, the society presented the Elms School of Nursing with a check to fund a nursing scholarship for five years. The scholarship, called the La Societé des 40 Hommes et 8 Chevaux Honor Society for Veterans Nursing Award, will be given to nursing students attending Elms College. This award will grant $400 per year to support a sophomore or junior student’s nursing education. Preference will be given to veterans, children of veterans, or active military.

“We are so very grateful to the Forty & Eight society for this generous scholarship,” said Kathleen Scoble, dean of the School of Nursing at Elms College. “The society’s commitment to the education of nurses is both inspiring and greatly appreciated. It is not uncommon for our student nurses to be challenged with funding their education. Thus, every scholarship is important and removes one more obstacle they may face.”

This Forty & Eight scholarship program began in 1955. With 2,131 students receiving more than $1.1 million in scholarships this past year, the Forty & Eight has granted in excess of $20 million and graduated more than 23,000 registered nurses since the inception of this program.

This is the second time the organization has selected Elms for this scholarship; the first scholarship was presented in 2009. “We thought it would be great if we did it again, and let’s see if we can increase the amount a little bit,” said James Hoar, who holds the title of cheminot/chef de gare passé in the Forty & Eight.

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BOSTON — Local unemployment rates decreased in 18 labor-market areas, increased in four, and remained the same in two areas in the state during the month of November, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported. Compared to November 2015, the rates were down in all areas.

Six of the 15 areas for which job estimates are published recorded seasonal job gains in November, with the largest gains in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton and Brockton-Bridgewater-Easton areas.

The Springfield, Worcester, Lawrence-Methuen-Salem, and Pittsfield areas had no change in job levels over the month, while seasonal losses occurred in the Barnstable, Haverhill-Newburyport-Amesbury, Framingham, New Bedford, and Lynn-Saugus-Marblehead areas.

From November 2015 to November 2016, 14 of the 15 areas added jobs, with the largest percentage gains in the Haverhill-Newburyport-Amesbury, Taunton-Middleborough-Norton, Worcester, and Barnstable areas.

In order to compare the statewide rate to local unemployment rates, the Bureau of Labor

Last week, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported the statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 2.9% in the month of November.  Across the nation, Massachusetts experienced the largest over-the-year drop in the unemployment rate of any state, down 2.0% from November 2015, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The statewide seasonally adjusted jobs estimate showed a 5,800-job gain in November, and an over-the-year gain of 70,100 jobs.

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EASTHAMPTON — On Dec. 16, Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts CEO Elizabeth Barajas-Román and Program Officer Ellen Moorhouse joined stakeholders from the academic, private, government, and philanthropic sectors at the White House for a forum hosted by senior Administration officials.

The forum, “Advancing Equity for Women and Girls of Color: Continuing Progress and Building Toward Change,” focused on developing strategies that break down barriers to success and create more opportunity for all Americans, including women and girls of color.

“We are eager to bring the voices of Western Massachusetts to the national conversation on women and girls,” Barajas-Román said before the event. “The progress we’ve made toward gender equity is at risk. But together, we can stand our ground. Our goal is to return from the forum with additional dynamic partnerships that will help us address problems we can fix together, in our lifetimes.”

The forum built on President Obama’s efforts on behalf of women and girls, like the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, expanding fair pay and paid-leave protections, and convening the first-ever White House summit focused on building workplaces that support working families and business.

The White House Council on Women and Girls has identified five data-driven issue areas where interventions can promote opportunities for success at school, at work, and in the community. Continuing research in these areas and exploration of new efforts can help advance equality for women and girls of color.

“By representing Western Massachusetts at the White House, we can ensure that our collective voice is heard on important policy matters,” Moorhouse said. “Only by having a seat at the table can we work to safeguard the progress we’ve made, while simultaneously laying the groundwork for future policy and social change.”

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SPRINGFIELD — The Professional Women’s Chamber (PWC), a division of the Springfield Regional Chamber, will hold its 19th annual Tabletop Expo and Luncheon on Wednesday, Jan. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Storrowton Tavern, Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, sponsored by season advertising partner BusinessWest.

The tabletop expo provides business and community leaders opportunities to network and showcase area business products and services. Tabletop reservations are $75 for PWC members, $105 for non-members, and include a draped table and lunch for one. Reservations for the lunch only are also available for $25 for PWC members and $35 for non-members.

The deadline to reserve a tabletop is Wednesday, Jan. 11. Reservations may be made online at www.professionalwomenschamber.com or by e-mailing [email protected].

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SPRINGFIELD — Jennifer Garutti was recently named executive director of the American Red Cross of Western Massachusetts.

She joined the American Red Cross in 2015, bringing a wealth of volunteer-development, donor-development, and marketing and communications experience to her role as executive coordinator. When the executive director position became available in 2016, she was the choice of the Western Massachusetts chapter board of directors and her regional executive colleagues.

With a passion for the Red Cross, Garutti has pledged to build the local chapter’s capacity to serve Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire county families. She approaches this challenge as a mobilizer of disaster volunteers, armed-forces advocates, life-saving skills educators, blood donors, and financial contributors. She looks forward to working with these constituencies for a safe, healthy, and prepared Western Mass.

As a community volunteer herself, Garutti has long shared her marketing and photography skills with child-focused nonprofits including Angels Take Flight and Girls on the Run. She also contributes regularly to the BYO Blog, which promotes Springfield as a family-friendly city.

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NORTHAMPTON — Anne Stout was recently appointed director, Business Development for Webber & Grinnell Insurance. In this role, she will build market position by locating, developing, defining, and acquiring new clients.

Having previously worked at Toole Insurance and Pitney Bowes Inc., Stout has more than 20 years of success in marketing and consistently strives to maximize the reach, efficiency, and business impact of strategic relationships. She has also served as vice president, Membership for Berkshire Business and Professional Women and on the United Way Resource Development Committee.

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BOSTON — The state’s total unemployment rate dropped to 2.9% in November, marking the fifth consecutive month the rate declined, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported Thursday.
The last time the state’s unemployment rate was at 2.9% was in January 2001. The unemployment rate in October was 3.3%.
In November, preliminary estimates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate Massachusetts added 5,800 jobs over the month.  BLS slightly revised the October job estimates, reporting the state loss 5,400 jobs as opposed to the previously reported 5,500 job loss estimate. Year-to-date, December 2015 to November 2016, Massachusetts has added 67,200 jobs.
Massachusetts’ unemployment rate has remained lower than the national rate since April 2008. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the national rate at 4.6% in November.
At 2.9%, the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is down 2.0% over the year from 4.9% in November 2015. There were 68,100 fewer unemployed residents and 108,400 more employed residents over the year compared to November 2015.
“We are very pleased to see the unemployment rate consistently go down month after month,” said Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Ronald L. Walker, II. “Not only is the unemployment rate declining, but we have continued job growth in key sectors that drive the Massachusetts economy.”
In November, over-the-month job gains occurred in the financial activities; professional, scientific and business services; construction; information; ‘other services’; education and health services; and local government sectors.
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 — is 64.7%, down 0.2 of a percentage point over the month.  Over the year, the labor force participation rate has increased 0.1 of a percentage point compared to November 2015.

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SPRINGFIELD — Melanie Gagnon, a working student who is in real estate sales, sees a new program at Springfield Technical Community College as a terrific opportunity to take her career to a higher level.

“I personally don’t want to devote my life 100% to just selling houses,” said Gagnon, 36, of Springfield. “I don’t want to be residential. I want to be a part of bigger things, and this helps.”

What types of bigger things? That could mean possibly working as a community or regional planner, or taking a job that requires emergency planning such as when a city is devastated by a natural disaster.

Gagnon is one of four students currently pursuing a degree through a new STCC major called Real Estate Planning and Sustainable Development. Professor Warren Hall, department chair in the Architecture and Building Technology program at STCC, developed the option for students like Gagnon and others who have an eye on a career in sustainable community development, architectural design or a related field.

Real Estate Planning and Sustainable Development provides students with necessary training and an affordable path to a bachelor’s degree, or even a master’s degree, said Hall, who served for seven years on the Planning Board in Pelham and also was Pelham’s commissioner to the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.

Hall said the new program was designed in response to changes in the building and planning industry.

“The fact is with so much of what we do today we need to look through that lens of sustainability,” Hall said. “That’s something the industry has been stressing.”

“Sustainability” in community development refers to the concept of planning to meet not only the current needs of residents, but to ensure adequate resources are available for future generations. Hall teaches students to consider factors such as the environmental impact of community development. Sustainable development also considers the social impact involved with urban growth and sprawl.

Real Estate Planning and Sustainable Development is one of three options in STCC’s Architecture and Building Technology program. The others are Architecture and Project Management. The new option officially starts in fall 2017.

The Real Estate Planning and Sustainable Development major was created for students who plan to complete at least their bachelor’s degree after earning their associate degree from STCC. After earning a bachelor’s degree, students may choose to explore career options, but they also might decide to continue their academic studies in a variety of graduate-degree programs, such as Master of Architecture, Master of Design Studies or Master of Regional Planning.

Hall highlighted one of the exciting and affordable options his students can choose: They can continue to earn their master’s in regional planning through a unique “2+2+1” agreement between STCC and the UMass at Amherst.

Students complete two years at STCC and then transfer to UMass or Westfield State University for another two years to receive a bachelor’s degree. After earning the bachelor’s degree, they would enroll in a one-year master’s in regional planning program at UMass.

“These students can have a master’s degree in regional planning in five years. That’s amazing,” Hall said.

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BOSTON – The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) today announced that the Commonwealth added 6,317 clean- energy jobs and has surpassed 100,000 clean energy jobs statewide for the first time, currently 105,212. The figures, released as part of MassCEC’s 2016 Massachusetts Clean Energy Industry Report, show the Bay State clean energy sector maintained a strong growth rate of six percent between 2015 and 2016. The report also found that the number of clean energy jobs in Massachusetts has increased by 75% since 2010.

“The Commonwealth’s highly educated and well-trained workforce makes it an attractive place for innovative industries, including clean energy companies,” said Gov. Charlie Baker. “Massachusetts’ recently passed comprehensive energy diversification legislation will continue to build on the recent success of the clean energy industry by increasing opportunities for growth and advancement.”

“The Clean Energy Industry Report clearly shows that the booming clean energy sector is a pivotal jobs creator within the Commonwealth and a driving force for diversifying our energy sources,” said Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito. “The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to continuing our support of Massachusetts’ robust clean energy sector and making these benefits accessible to residents throughout the Commonwealth.”

The report found that clean energy is an $11.8 billion industry in Massachusetts, and represents 2.5% of the Commonwealth’s Gross State Product. Clean energy jobs represent 2.9% of the overall workforce in the state, the report found. The clean energy industry employs residents of every region in Massachusetts. Jobs grew over the past year in each of the state’s regions, with the largest growth coming in Northeastern Massachusetts (8.8%) and Southeastern Massachusetts (8.2%).

“The continued strength of Massachusetts’ clean energy industry continues to bring innovation, energy savings and environmental benefits to communities across the state,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton. “The Baker-Polito Administration will continue to work with our partners in the clean energy industry to reduce costs to ratepayers, usage and emissions as we work to achieve our Global Warming Solutions Act goals.”

“The clean energy industry in Massachusetts continues to see strong job growth while helping to drive the state’s vibrant innovation economy,” said MassCEC CEO Stephen Pike. “The clean energy sector is fueled by the economic activity of small businesses, universities, nonprofits, technologists and entrepreneurs hard at work on addressing our most pressing energy challenges.”

The report found that Massachusetts installed 25,390 renewable energy projects in 2016, adding an additional 374 megawatts (MW) of electric capacity in the process, enough to power 56,040 homes. The Commonwealth also remains first in the United States for per-capita early-stage clean energy venture investment, beating out California. Early stage investment in Massachusetts clean energy companies grew 166% over the previous year.

The report, prepared for MassCEC by BW Research Partnership, also found Massachusetts to be the national leader in early-stage clean energy investment. Overall, public and private investment in the industry exceeded $658 million.

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WESTFIELD — Robert Magovern, president of Agawam-based Neighbor to Neighbor, has been re-appointed to serve on Westfield State University’s Board of Trustees. The appointment marks Magovern’s third term of service on the board, following an initial term from 1997 to 2002 and a second from 2005 to 2009. Magovern’s current term will continue through 2021.

“Board oversight is critically important, especially at our public institutions, and we are confident these appointees will bring extensive leadership, professional and academic experiences to the benefit of the schools and their students,” said Gov. Charlie Baker in the fall when he announced Magovern and other board appointments for public colleges and universities in Massachusetts.

“Our students and full campus community will again benefit from trustee Magovern’s keen business sense and his veteran perspective as an incumbent board member at Westfield State,” said Westfield State University Board of Trustees Chair Steven Marcus. “Trustee Magovern’s appreciation for and intimate understanding of the impact of public higher education is critical in the governance of the university.”

Magovern started his own business in 1975, which grew to become Neighbor to Neighbor, a regional “new resident” welcoming company serving customers in Massachusetts and Connecticut. Prior to Neighbor to Neighbor, he was vice president of the Magovern Company—a retail company that sold golf course equipment with stores throughout Western Massachusetts, Connecticut and New York. Magovern earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Boston University.

Aside from running his business, he is highly engaged in his hometown community of Agawam, where he is the current chair of the Republican Town Committee. As the former City Council president, Magovern formed the Financial Oversight and Industrial Relations committees. He was also president of the Agawam Rotary Club, was a co-founder of both Agawam’s St. Patrick’s Day Committee and the Longmeadow Historical Society’s Long Meddowe Days event. In addition, Magovern was a co-founder of the Society of the 17th Century, a group that promotes 17th Century New England history and performs reenactments in the area. On the state level, Magovern was a member of the Massachusetts Republican State Committee and served on its executive board.

“As a firm believer in public higher education, I am thrilled to rejoin the Westfield State board,” said Magovern. “Westfield State is one of the finest state universities within Massachusetts.”

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HOLYOKE — Holyoke Mall and Autism Speaks will host sensory-friendly holiday shopping on Sunday, Dec. 18 from 8 to 10 a.m., allowing children with special needs to be welcomed into an environment designed to support them.

“We were approached by representatives from Autism Speaks,” said Lisa Wray, Holyoke Mall’s marketing director. “Shopping malls can be overwhelming for children with special needs, which is why we are working with them to offer a special time for shopping with minimal distractions.”

During the event, Holyoke Mall will turn off overhead music in the shopping center and encourage individual stores to do the same. There will be a designated quiet area for families as well as an informational table staffed by volunteers from Autism Speaks on the lower level near Sears.

Daily News

WESTFIELD — Splash Marketing and Creative, a full-service marketing agency located in Westfield, announced its recent hire of Andrea Gauvin, who has joined the team as digital marketing manager. In this role, Gauvin will manage the digital assets for business clients, including, but not limited to, websites, SEO/SEM, blogging, social media, and digital ad campaigns.

Gauvin has been in the marketing and communications field for more than seven years within the nonprofit, retail, and healthcare industries. Prior to assuming this role with Splash Marketing and Creative, she was marketing and communications manager at HealthyCT, a nonprofit health-insurance company located in Wallingford, Conn. She also held marketing positions at the United Way of Pioneer Valley and EcoBuilding Bargains, both located in Springfield.

She graduated summa cum laude from Bay Path College with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and has been involved with several community organizations, including the United Way of Pioneer Valley Women’s Leadership Council, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Westfield Chamber of Commerce, and Cub Scouts.

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) is using a $190,000 grant from the state’s Workforce Competitive Trust Fund to train unemployed and underemployed people for new jobs in the culinary and hospitality industry.

The program is free to participants, who must commit to attend classes every day for nine weeks, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The course teaches them fundamental culinary skills and exposes them to a wide variety of careers in hospitality, including hotel operations.

“It’s a hands-on opportunity to try out a lot of things and find out what their interests and aptitudes are,” said Kermit Dunkelberg, HCC’s assistant vice president of Adult Basic Education and Workforce Development. “Another key part of the program is that, when it ends, they have to let us help them find a job.”

The Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced the grant earlier this year. Commonwealth Corp., a quasi-public state agency that fosters partnerships between industry, education, and workforce organizations, administers the Workforce Competitive Trust Fund.

Students graduate from the program with four key credentials: ServSafe and OSHA-10 certifications, which show they have been trained in safe food handling and workplace safety; TIPS certification, which allows them to serve alcohol; and a National Career Readiness certification, which demonstrates they possess fundamental workplace skills.

The first cohort of students started in October and will celebrate their graduation today, Dec. 15, as they prepare and serve a noontime meal for family and friends at Food 101 Bar & Bistro in South Hadley. The restaurant is owned by chef Alan Anischik, who serves as the main instructor for the program.

Most of the classes meet at Dean Technical High School in Holyoke. Last week, in preparation for the graduation celebration, the class met at Food 101.

In addition to cooking techniques, the program offers lessons in customer-service etiquette, workplace communication, conflict resolution, product purchasing and receiving, and food and wine pairing.

During the course, students had the opportunity to attend a job seminar with representatives from MGM Resorts to learn about future employment opportunities at the casino now under construction in Springfield. They also participated in speed interviews with local employers from the restaurant and hotel industry.

The next program cohort begins March 23. Anyone interested should contact Milissa Daniels at (413) 552-2042.

Daily News

BOSTON — State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg recently unveiled a one-year progress report on her Office of Economic Empowerment’s financial-education initiatives. The review highlighted the advancements resulting from the 2015 Financial Literacy Task Force Report.

The task force consisted of a diverse group of policymakers, educators, bankers and advocates, and convened last year to develop an action plan for Massachusetts residents to have access to the financial skills they need to attain economic stability. The report culminated with the release of 22 recommendations aimed at empowering residents with an understanding of how to budget their money, save for retirement, and understand the impact of economic decisions.

“I am thankful for the many partners that share our vision and commitment to expanding economic security in Massachusetts,” Goldberg said. “We will continue to innovate and expand our programs through a digital delivery of financial education and partnerships throughout the state.”

In one year, Goldberg’s Office of Economic Empowerment initiated 14 of the 22 policy recommendations provided by the task force, including: establishing $eedMA, a pilot program designed to help kindergarten families save for post-secondary education and training; creating the Women’s Economic Empowerment Series, a free financial-empowerment workshop series for women; ande the relaunch of Operation Money Wise as a grant program for organizations to provide financial education and programming to the military, veteran, family, and survivor community.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. announced that seasoned corporate social-responsibility executive Dennis Duquette has been appointed head of Community Responsibility and president of the MassMutual Foundation.

Duquette, who has more than 30 years of financial-services industry experience, including oversight of community relations and brand development, is based in the company’s Springfield headquarters and reports to MassMutual Head of Brand and Advertising Jennifer Halloran. Duquette will lead all aspects of MassMutual’s community-engagement efforts, including the recently established MassMutual Foundation. This includes such initiatives as the FutureSmart program, which is helping to address the critical need for youth financial literacy; LifeBridge, which provides income-eligible families with free term life insurance that protects their children’s education; and Mutual Impact, MassMutual’s employee-giving program.

“For 165 years, giving back to the community has been a part of MassMutual’s culture,” said Halloran. “We are thrilled to have Dennis, with his extensive industry experience, innovation, and passion for collaboration, help build on that rich history and drive MassMutual’s community-engagement efforts to a new level.”

Prior to joining MassMutual, Duquette was with Fidelity Investments since 1989, where he created groundbreaking sponsorship efforts, grew and expanded Fidelity’s corporate presence and sponsorships across the U.S., and managed FidelityCares, an employee-volunteerism program that also provides philanthropic support to nonprofit organizations. Joining MassMutual represents a homecoming for Duquette, who began his career with the company and held a variety of roles in community relations, human resources, and marketing communications.

Duquette earned a master’s degree in public policy and administration from Northwestern University and a master’s degree in administrative studies from Boston College, where he also earned his bachelor’s degree in English and communications.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) has been awarded $186,400 over three years in support of the Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship. The grant was received from the Davis Educational Foundation, established by Stanton and Elisabeth Davis after Stanton Davis’s retirement as chairman of Shaw’s Supermarkets Inc.

In an effort to strengthen and bring together student support services in one accessible location on campus, AIC created the Center for Academic Success (CAS) in 2008 with support from Davis Educational Foundation and others. CAS offers a number of student-support programs, including mentoring and advising, a writing program, tutoring, and support for first-generation college students. The AIC Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship (CETLS) is designed to complement the efforts of CAS by enhancing a vibrant academic culture at AIC. The mission of CETLS is to provide all faculty members with opportunities to achieve and be recognized for teaching excellence, be supported in scholarship, and grow through collaboration and community.

When CETLS was created in 2014, a regular schedule of workshops and grants for travel to conferences on teaching and learning were offered to AIC faculty for the first time. CETLS now offers a variety of opportunities for faculty development.

“American International College is grateful for support from Davis Educational Foundation, which was key to the creation of the Center for Academic Success,” said Raj Parikh, AIC’s executive vice president for Academic Affairs. “As AIC is committed to robust student-support services, the college additionally makes a concomitant investment in faculty support and development, outcomes assessment, and technology tools. For faculty at AIC, whose primary focus is teaching, the next logical step is advancing the improvement of teaching, which will naturally impact student learning. By providing an accessible location, expertise, and resources, the Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship embodies AIC’s commitment to faculty development and student success.”

In addition to augmenting funding for faculty development, thereby supporting high-quality instruction for AIC’s diverse student body, the grant allows AIC to equip the faculty technology lab, providing cutting-edge technology training and teaching-outcomes assessment.

Daily News

CHICOPEE — The Elms College School of Nursing, in collaboration with the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Sunday Sandwich Ministry, will hold a memorial service and dinner on Wednesday, Dec. 21 to honor homeless persons who have passed away in 2016 in Chicopee. The public is invited to join in remembrance.

The memorial will be held at 4:30 p.m. at Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry, 170 Pendexter Ave., Chicopee, and will be followed by a dinner service at 5 p.m. Food-pantry donations of non-perishable food items or money may be made at the event. The memorial program will be held outside, so attendees should dress accordingly. The meal will be held inside the soup kitchen.

For 26 years, on or near the first day of winter and the longest night of the year, the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH) has advocated this national day of memory to bring attention to the tragedy of homelessness and to remember friends who have lost their lives to homelessness.

Participants in the memorial program will include Chicopee Mayor Richard Kos; Sr. Mary Reap, president of Elms College; Dr. Kathleen Scoble, dean of the School of Nursing at Elms College; Rev. Joseph Benicewicz, pastor of St. Stanislaus; Br. Michael Duffy of the School of Nursing at Elms College; and Andréa Marion, executive director of Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry.

The Basilica of St. Stanislaus Sandwich Ministry distributes food and clothing to people who are homeless or facing financial challenges in Chicopee each Sunday.

Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry Inc. is a nonprofit organization serving the hungry and disadvantaged in the Greater Chicopee community. Lorraine’s serves an average of 100 meals each evening and approximately 500 families a month through the pantry.

Elms College School of Nursing operates the caRe vaN, providing free healthcare to the homeless and underserved of Chicopee and Holyoke.

Daily News

LONGMEADOW — JGS Lifecare opened Michael’s Café at the Sosin Center for Rehabilitation on Dec. 12, the first day residents moved into the new rehab center. The kosher café offers classics like grab-and-go sandwiches on rye bread, bagels, baked goods, salads, and soup, as well as specialty items like ‘Converse Street potatoes,’ shakshuka, and slow-simmered corned beef, which will be available on Wednesdays.

“We hope it will be a community gathering space for residents, guests, and families to meet, enjoy a meal, and gather with friends,” said Alexis Girhiny, director of Food Services at JGS Lifecare.

The kosher café is dedicated to the memory of the late Michael Frankel, who was an outspoken advocate for Project Transformation, an initiative of reimagining and improving how care is delivered across the JGS Lifecare family of services.

“Naming the café in his honor is a permanent tribute not only to Frankel’s extraordinary commitment to the care of our elders at the highest standards, but also his vision for JGS Lifecare for generations to come,” said Susan Kimball Halpern, vice president of Philanthropy for JGS Lifecare.

The work of several local artists is displayed in the café and throughout the Sosin Center. Artists include Lewis Bryden, Diana Cote, Heidi Coutu, Laura Eden, Peiliang Jin, Cindy Lutz Kornet, Laura Radwell, and Jim Rosenthal.

Michael’s Café is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Saturdays, the café offers Help Yourself Snacks from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sundays, breakfast is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Rabbi Devorah Jacobson is also holding a free drop-in class called “Nosh & Learn: Greatest Hits from the Talmud” at the café on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Call JGS Lifecare at (413) 567-6211 for dates and weather or other cancellations. For information about daily specials at Michael’s Café, call (413) 935-5000.

Company Notebook Departments

Berkshire Bank Announces New Teen Checking Product

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced a new product, Teen Checking, its newest deposit product designed to promote financial responsibility and teach teens important money basics. As teenagers grow, they need to learn money basics, and that includes managing a checking account. Those skills might be more valuable today than ever before: 36% of college students at four-year institutions noted that overdrafting and managing a bank account are the leading causes of financial stress, according to the 2015 Money Matters on Campus survey by education technology firm EverFi and Higher One, a college financial-services company. Furthermore, 12% indicated they never check their balances because they are too nervous. The Teen Checking product is available to individuals aged 15 to 17 with an adult co-owner and is intended to provide teens the freedom to use their own debit card to make purchases and manage a checking account using online and mobile banking. The account has been tailored to meet the needs of teens, with a specific focus on immediate access. The convenience of account information is made possible through free online banking, e-statements, and mobile banking. In addition, the free debit card has a reduced limit for minors. Berkshire Bank’s website also provides financial-education resource options for teens and parents to explore and discuss. Starting a checking account early for teens is a key way to avoid pitfalls later. “It helps them learn concepts related to money and gives them valuable experience,” said Tami Gunsch, executive vice president, Retail Banking. “Remember that, while your child has watched you swipe a debit card for years, he or she may not fully understand how the transaction works.”

Couple Opens Baseball, Softball Training Facility

WESTFIELD — Dave and Karen Sweeney of Agawam recently purchased the assets of the former Extra Innings Westfield franchise from Nabil and Julie Hannoush of Westfield. On Nov. 1, they opened their own family-run baseball and softball training facility, Players Edge New England, in the same space at 99 Springfield Road, which they will lease from the Hannoushes. Like its predecessor, Players Edge New England will offer batting practice and player development to teams and individual baseball and softball players in the region, and the organization will also offer one-on-one coaching, practice space for the Players Edge Expos—a travelling youth baseball team—and group clinics for teams throughout the year. “We’re as committed to softball as we are to baseball,” said Dave Sweeney, co-owner. The facility is also open to the public daily from noon to 9 p.m., and is available to businesses and corporations as staff meeting, event, and retreat space. Additional hours are available upon request. Sweeney, a longtime entrepreneur and the owner of viz-bang! in Agawam, is excited to partner with his wife, Karen, in a venture that will also include their children, Jake Sweeney, 16, a pitcher and infielder on the Agawam High School varsity baseball team, and Julia, 13, who is active in swimming and music. Players Edge New England will offer tunnel rentals, or batting-cage rentals, for individual practice and player development; one-on-one coaching through the Coaches in Residence Program; practice space for the Players Edge Expos, a youth travelling baseball team that will compete in the NEAAU league this summer; ongoing group clinics for baseball and softball teams in the region; event space for area businesses and corporations; softball and baseball pitching machines for use by the public daily from noon to 9 p.m.; and video- and virtual-based baseball play via a Hit Trax machine.

Webber & Grinnell Employees Assist Area Homeless

NORTHAMPTON — For three weeks in November, employees of Webber & Grinnell Insurance Agency served meals to Friends of the Homeless clients and others in the community who would otherwise go hungry. Friends of the Homeless served more than 156,000 meals last year, he noted, and people suffering from mental illness or substance-abuse problems are highly visible on area streets and in parks, and of this homeless population, about 20% of are referred to as being chronically homeless. A profound economic transformation that has eliminated manufacturing jobs, coupled with a decline in the availability of low-cost housing, has contributed to the problem.

CJC Development Advisors Opens Office in Westfield

WESTFIELD — CJC Development Advisors, LLC has opened an office at 38 Elm St. in Westfield to support its growing client base in Western Mass. Local businesses that are growing and real-estate developers that are investing in projects have called on CJC Development Advisors to assist with tax incentives, development and permitting issues, and development management. CJC Development’s expertise is in land/real-estate development, construction project management, government relations, community relations, permitting, data, and financial analysis. Founder and Principal Jeffrey Daley has more than 15 years of experience in economic development, real-estate development, construction project management, government relations, and public-private partnership development. He has managed more than $500 million in private and public developments and program administration, and has managed projects ranging from $50,000 to $180 million.

Chamber Corners Departments

AMHERST AREA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Dec. 12: Holiday After 5 & AmherstWorks Ribbon Cutting, 5-7 p.m., at AmherstWorks, 11 Amity St., Amherst. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and Young Professionals of Amherst. Join the Amherst Area Chamber and the Young Professionals of Amherst at our annual holiday party sponsored by PeoplesBank. Mid-December is an ideal time of year to see familiar faces, build fresh relationships, and be part of the fun as we welcome new members to the chamber. As a special feature that evening, we’ll also be cutting the ribbon of Amherst’s new co-working space, AmherstWorks. Tours of the facility will be available, and everyone will have a chance to win one of our special holiday raffle prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call (413) 253-0700.

FRANKLIN COUNTY
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• Dec. 16: 34th Annual FCCC Holiday Breakfast and the Recorder Citizen of the Year Award, 7:20-9:05 a.m., hosted by Deerfield Academy Dining Commons, Albany Road, Deerfield. Come celebrate the holidays with Franklin County Chamber of Commerce members, employees, and guests, at a sumptuous breakfast buffet provided by Deerfield Academy. Gary Maynard & Friends will perform seasonal musical entertainment before and during breakfast through the generosity of the Skip Hammond Family. Cost: $25 for members and their employees, $28 for non-members. Call (413) 773-5463 to make a reservation.

GREATER CHICOPEE
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Dec. 21: December Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Chuck’s Auto Body & Towing, Mountain View Landscapes & Lawn Care, Paratemps Inc., Reminder Publications, and Sunshine Village. Chairperson: Judith Tremble-Murphy. Guest Speaker: Sy Becker of WWLP 22 News. Salutes: Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry, 25-year anniversary; American Red Cross Blood Service, 135-year anniversary; Chicopee Electric Light, 120-year-anniversary. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Register online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER HOLYOKE
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Dec. 14: Holiday Business Breakfast 2016, 7:15 a.m.-9 a.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Holyoke Gas & Electric, Health New England, United Bank, and the Republican-El Pueblo Latino-MassLive. Business networking and salutes while enjoying a hearty buffet breakfast. Cost: $22 for members in advance, $28 for non-members and at the door. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or visit www.holyokechamber.com to sign up.

• Dec. 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., sponsored and hosted by the Delaney House, Three Country Club Road, Holyoke. This business-networking event in a festive atmosphere includes a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and money (scratch-ticket) wreath. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Public registration has closed. Call (413) 534-3376 for more information.

GREATER WESTFIELD
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Dec. 16: Holiday Chamber Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Sponsored by Westfield State University, Baystate Health, Savage Arms, Easthampton Savings Bank, and Walmart. A 50/50 raffle will support two Citizen’s Scholarships. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information or to donate a door prize for the event, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Dec. 13: Ladies Networking Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Cooper’s Curtains & Gifts, 161 Main St, Agawam. This event will feature special sale items from the store’s extensive collection of gifts, home goods, and women’s apparel. Make new friends, create business contacts, enjoy the refreshments, and celebrate the season. Admission is free.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Dec. 14: Springfield Regional Chamber “The Art of Networking” After 5, 5-7 p.m, hosted by Ninth Floor Art Gallery, 1350 Main St., Springfield. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880

• Dec. 15: Google Lunch Seminar/SCORE, noon to 2 p.m., hosted by West Springfield Public Library, 200 Park St., West Springfield. Let SCORE give valuable tips on how to effectively use Google to market your business. Cost: free. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com or call (413) 426-3880.

• Jan. 12: Google Workshop, noon to 2 p.m., hosted by West Springfield Public Library, 200 Park St., West Springfield. Workshop sponsored by WRC and SCORE.  Learn how to effectively utilize Google Analytics and AdWords to better your company’s  online exposure. Light lunch will be served. Cost: free. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected], or register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• Feb. 9: Multi-Chamber Lunch & Learn Seminar on Robert’s Rules of Order, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Enjoy lunch while learning about Robert’s Rules of Order with guest speaker Robert MacDonald. Cost: $35. Sponsorship opportunities are available for this event. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 22: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The breakfast will feature a panel of various legislators and mayors discussing community concerns, giving updates on their towns, and taking questions and answers from the audience. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].

Departments People on the Move
Maureen Sullivan

Maureen Sullivan

The Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce announced that Maureen Sullivan has been named its Director of Marketing and communications, effective Dec. 1. Sullivan will be responsible for the strategic direction, development, management, and implementation of all aspects of marketing, public relations, social media, media relations, and communications efforts. She replaces Nancy Creed, who assumed the role of chamber president in August. Sullivan comes to the chamber with extensive marketing and communications experience, most recently as president of the Maureen Sullivan Media Group, an advertising and marketing firm focused on developing branding, marketing strategies, advertising, and event marketing. Prior to her founding her own business in 2013, she served as the marketing director for the Republican, where she directed corporate and internal communications, community engagement, loyalty programs, and sponsorships. Before being promoted in 1999 to marketing director, Sullivan served as the newspaper’s promotional manager, responsible for all internal communications, advertising sales, and event marketing. Sullivan is the founder of “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” a successful, award-winning event series for women. She produced and managed the series of events attended by more than 2,100 women, launched its profitable merchandise line, and launched its digital and print publication with a reach of 376,000. Sullivan also produced an award-winning television commercial and has been named one of the Top 10 Women in Business by the Women Business Owner’s Alliance. Before joining the Republican, Sullivan served in similar capacities with the Hartford Courant and the Transcript-Telegram in Holyoke. She is a board member of Unify Against Bullying, a nonprofit that raises money to fund anti-bullying projects in schools; a former member of the Holyoke Cultural Council appointed by Mayor Alex Morse; and a former board member with the Newspaper Assoc. of America and the Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts. She is a graduate of UMass with a degree in journalism and communications.

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Andrew Steiner

Andrew Steiner

Andrew Steiner has been named Executive Director of JGS Lifecare’s Leavitt Family Jewish Home (JNH). He brings more than 20 years of diverse experience improving the quality of care and quality of life of seniors. He will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the Joint Commission-accredited, 200-bed, long-term-care nursing home located in Longmeadow. Before joining JGS Lifecare, Steiner served as president of Sycamore Health Care Consultants, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in senior housing and health care, policy and compliance, reimbursement programming, healthcare technology integration, operations and turnaround management, marketing, and real-estate investment. In addition, Steiner has served as the executive director of the 205-bed Abbott Terrace Health Center in Waterbury, Conn. In this role, he implemented and managed programs for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, pulmonary rehabilitation, and cardiac care management. He also developed and implemented partnerships with regional hospital networks and delivered significant improvements in patient care and customer-service outcomes. Prior to this, Steiner served as director of Strategic Planning for National Health Care Associates in Wethersfield, Conn., coordinating business planning and strategies for more than 40 skilled-nursing facilities in six states with more than 4,000 beds under management. “Andrew clearly brings to JNH a wealth of administrative experience in clinical, long-term, and sub-acute settings, as well as a diverse programming background,” said Martin Baicker, president and CEO of JGS. “His wide-ranging skills and expertise will be a critical asset to JNH as we introduce the patient-centered ‘green house’ model of care in our nursing home over the next few years. We feel confident that, under his leadership, this new range of service will continue to grow our legacy of more than a century of proud caretaking, and fulfill our mission to provide quality eldercare services to the people of our community.” Steiner teaches health systems management at the University of Connecticut School of Business. He is also active on many local boards and organizations, including the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford and Hartford Hospital, and has served the Florida Health Care Assoc., the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation, and Dominican University. Steiner holds a master of public health degree in community health sciences and gerontology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a bachelor’s degree in business administration, emphasis in marketing, from the Kogod School of Business Administration, American University, Washington, D.C. He is licensed as a nursing-home administrator in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

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Western New England University President Anthony Caprio announced the appointment of two new faculty members in the University’s School of Law:

Mark Worthington

Mark Worthington

Mark Worthington is serving as the Director of Elder Law and Estate Planning Program in his new position in the Western New England University School of Law. Worthington has been in private practice exclusively in special-needs law, elder law, and estate planning for the past 24 years. He has been a member of the LLM faculty as an adjunct since the program’s inception. He is widely recognized as a national leader the field of elder law, having lectured and written for the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Worthington is a graduate of the University of Rochester, Northeastern University School of Law, and Boston University School of Law. As adjunct faculty, he has been teaching courses in Medicaid Planning and Planning with Grantor Trusts.

Henry Boroff

Henry Boroff

Henry Boroff has been a visiting professor and jurist in residence at Western New England University School of Law since July 2016, and previously an adjunct professor at the law school since 1996. From 1993 until his retirement in 2016, he served as a U.S. bankruptcy judge for the District of Massachusetts, handling cases throughout Massachusetts, as well as in New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Boroff was chief judge of the Massachusetts Bankruptcy Court from 2006 until 2010, and served from 1996 through 2016 an appellate judge on the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the First Circuit. He is a graduate of Boston University and Boston University Law School, and teaches courses in Bankruptcy and Secured Transactions.

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Anne Stout

Anne Stout

Anne Stout has recently been appointed Director, Business Development, for Webber & Grinnell Insurance. In this role, she will build market position by locating, developing, defining, and acquiring new clients. Having previously worked at Toole Insurance and Pitney Bowes Inc., Stout has more than 20 years of success in marketing and consistently strives to maximize the reach, efficiency, and business impact of strategic relationships. In keeping with the agency’s mission, she is committed to the community. She has held roles as vice president, Membership for Berkshire Business and Professional Women and served on the United Way resource development committee.

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David Griffin Sr

David Griffin Sr

The Dowd Insurance Agencies announced that David Griffin Sr. was selected as Treasurer for the new Pope Francis High School board of directors. Pope Francis High School is a faith-based, college-preparatory school serving grades 9-12, formed through the merger of Cathedral and Holyoke Catholic high schools, and currently operating out of the former Holyoke Catholic building. A new, state-of-the-art facility is under construction on Wendover Road in Springfield and is slated to open for the 2018-19 academic year. “I have strong ties with both legacy schools — I’m an alumnus of Holyoke Catholic, and three of my children were educated at Cathedral,” Griffin said. “Participating on the new Pope Francis High School board is one way I can help ensure that Catholic secondary education remains a viable option here in the Pioneer Valley.” Griffin is a principal and the executive vice president and treasurer of the Dowd Insurance Agencies. He has more than 35 years of experience in the insurance industry. He is a licensed insurance advisor as well as a certified insurance counselor. Griffin is also very active in the community. He has served as president of the West Springfield Chamber of Commerce, West Springfield Rotary, Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade Committee, Springfield Country Club, Hampden County Insurance Agents, and chair of Mont Marie Health Care Center.

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Richard Sawicki Jr.

Richard Sawicki Jr.

Richard Sawicki Jr. has been elected President of the 1,700-member Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley. The election took place at the association’s annual membership meeting held earlier this month at the Delaney House in Holyoke. Sawicki is office manager and real estate sales agent with Sawicki Real Estate in Amherst. As president, he will oversee the association’s activities and
operations, including meetings of the board of directors, and act as a
liaison to the association’s various committees. He is the official spokesperson of the association on issues related to the real-estate industry and the local housing market. The other 2017 officers and directors are Edward Alford, President-elect; Kelly Bowman, Treasurer; Susan Drumm, Secretary; and Lou Mayo, Immediate Past President. The directors include Elias Acuna, Suzi Buzzee, Shawn Bowman, Peter Davies, Janise Fitzpatrick, Ray Hoess-Brooks, Susan Rheaume, and Russell Sabadosa.

•••••

Stacey Price has been hired as director of development and marketing at Dakin Humane Society, according to Executive Director Carmine DiCenso. Price will oversee development and marketing efforts for the organization, which has two adoption centers in Leverett and Springfield, as well as a community spay/neuter clinic at the latter location. She will focus on donor and community relations and pursue strategic partnerships that will enable Dakin to continue to innovate while serving the needs of animals and the people who care for them in Western Mass. and beyond. Price was formerly the interim executive director and development director at Gifford Cat Shelter in Brighton, where she served as a funding strategist. Prior to that, she was the capital campaign manager for the EcoTarium in Worcester, and animal welfare director at Kitsap Humane Society in Silverdale, Wash. Price is a member of the Society of Animal Welfare Administrators and was part of the Spay Worcester Task Force. She received a Who’s Who 40 Under 40 award in 2010 from Kitsap County, Wash., and earned an MBA from Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y.

Agenda Departments

Nutcracker and Sweets

Dec. 16-18: One of Holyoke’s most beloved holiday traditions will return as the Massachusetts Academy of Ballet presents Nutcracker & Sweets at Wistariahurst. This unique, historical interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet is presented through narration and dance in the historic setting of Wistariahurst, thanks to the support of Holyoke Gas & Electric. Student dancers will perform the magical story with a local historical twist and lively choreography, in eight performances on Friday, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 17 at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 18 at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. Seating is limited, and advance ticket purchases are required. Tickets are available online at www.wistariahurst.org, and can also be purchased in person at the Wistariahurst visitor’s center, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seated tickets are available for $15. Children under 4 are permitted on laps at no additional charge (one child per adult). Standing-room-only tickets are available for $12. Massachusetts Academy of Ballet is a training school for students interested in pursuing a career in classical ballet. The academy also has a program for non-professional students and adults seeking ballet training and artistic education. Classes emphasize classical ballet technique, musicality, artistry, and creativity.

Tree of Love Ceremony

Dec. 17: As the holiday season approaches, the Baystate Wing Auxiliary has set the date for its annual Tree of Love ceremony. This special event, created to honor and remember loved ones, features ornaments that can be purchased, personalized, and placed on the tree with names in memory of family and friends. “There is a definite comfort in coming together with others to remember someone, especially during the holidays,” said Teresa Grove, president of the Auxiliary and Philanthropy officer for the Baystate Health Eastern Region, which includes Baystate Wing and Baystate Mary Lane Outpatient Center. The ornaments may be purchased for $5 for a single name and $10 for a family. In addition, the community is invited to be part of an event held on Sunday, Dec. 17 from 1 to 3 p.m., when the decorated Tree of Love will be displayed in the lobby located on the ground floor of the hospital. This special event will include fellowship, refreshments, and festive music by Voices of Love and Remembrance. “The Tree of Love is our annual tradition that warms our hearts as we remember loved ones and celebrate their lives,” said Carol Doyle, an auxiliary member who coordinates the event. All proceeds benefit the Baystate Wing Auxiliary, which in turn donates needed equipment and other items for the benefit of patients to the hospital. The funds from this year’s event will benefit the Baystate Wing Hospital Emergency Department expansion project. For more information about the Tree of Love or to purchase an ornament, stop in the Baystate Wing Hospital Gift Shop or call Doyle at (413) 267-9219.

Court Dockets Departments

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 District Court

Phillips Feed Service Inc. d/b/a Phillips Feed & Pet Supply v. SWOL Enterprises Inc. d/b/a Your Pets Choice
Allegation: Monies owed for goods sold and delivered: $20,769.12
Filed: 11/14/16

Gerry Proulx v. Studio 20 Salon, Jennifer Venne, Jesse Shaw, and Gail Grandon
Allegation: Breach of conduct, unjust enrichment: $26,565
Filed: 11/16/16

Ivia Martinez v. Friendly Ride Transportation Inc.
Allegation: Failure to pay minimum wage and overtime wages and retailiation resulting in wrongful termination: $20,000
Filed: 11/16/16

Suzanne Baldyga v. Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
Allegation: Slip and fall causing injury: $6,085
Filed: 11/16/16

Liberty Mutual Fire Co. v.  Pro Design & Construction, LLC
Allegation: Monies owed for premiums on workers’ compensation policies: $21,831.55
Filed: 11/17/16

Hampden Superior Court

Benjamin Mungin III and Theresa M. Mungin v.  Kittredge Equipment Co.
Allegation: Negligent handling of large, heavy object causing injury: $72,413.74
Filed: 11/7/16

Kevin Merchant v.  City of Springfield, Springfield Police Department, and Commissioner William Fitchet
Allegation: Wrongful employment termination: $250,000
Filed: 11/14/16

Anthony Stone v.  Pioneer Valley Transit Authority
Allegation: Motor-vehicle negligence causing injury: $12,602.89
Filed: 11/14/16

Donna Utter v.  Macy’s Inc., Macy’s East Inc., and Macy’s Retail Holdings Inc.
Allegation: Slip and fall causing injury: $49,022.34
Filed: 11/18/16

Meliza Vasquez v.  CNI Corp. and Garden Park Management Co. Inc.
Allegation: Slip and fall causing injury: $195,000
Filed: 11/23/16

Sage Engineering & Contracting Inc. v. Sunset Properties, LLC
Allegation: Monies owed for services, labor, and materials: $449,816
Filed: 11/23/16

Daily News

LONGMEADOW — Louis Lucchesi of Springfield became the first-ever resident in JGS Lifecare’s Sosin Center for Rehabilitation on Dec. 12, marking the arrival of the first Green House-certified residence in Western Mass. JGS Lifecare dedicated the Sosin Center in November, successfully passing all regulatory requirements for opening in December.

“I may never want to leave,” Lucchesi said jokingly as he settled into his new short-stay home. He’d begun his day in a room on the New York unit of JGS Lifecare’s Leavitt Family Jewish Home, which was built in 1972.
“In the ’70s, nursing homes were built like hospitals,” said Andrew Steiner, executive director of Leavitt Family Jewish Home. “They were designed with long halls, nursing stations, and a limited number of private rooms. The Sosin Center is crafted around a philosophy of de-institutionalized, home-style living with increased focus on individual autonomy.”

Lucchesi was the first of three patients who moved into the first-floor Sosin household on Dec. 12.

The 24,000-square-foot Sosin Center is only the third Green House Project facility in Massachusetts. The center carries the name of George Sosin, a JGS volunteer, family member, former resident, and supporter who left $3 million to JGS Lifecare in support of the center, the largest contribution received in its 104-year history.

Designed by Perkins Eastman, an industry leader in the planning and design of elder-care facilities and short-term rehabilitation programs, the Sosin Center contains two households that have been designed from the ground up to give residents the same feeling and experience as living in a real home, only under the guidance of a dedicated team of qualified caregivers called Shahbazim, who have received 120 hours of specialized Green House training in the core principles of ‘real home,’ ‘meaningful life,’ and ‘empowered staff.’

Each household accommodates 12 short-stay residents who receive physical, occupational, and speech-language therapies that are important to daily life, by practicing normal, everyday activities with their caregivers and therapists. Higher staffing levels ensure more than a fourfold increase in staff time spent engaging with residents, improving the quality of care. The center’s small-house model of care has been proven to reduce medication use by patients post-rehab with fewer return trips to the hospital.

“Currently, more than 68% of all short-stay residents at JGS Lifecare have made improvements in function, which is nearly 15% above the Massachusetts average. With the addition of the Sosin Center, we expect those numbers to be even stronger,” said Martin Baicker, president and CEO, of JGS Lifecare.

Added Dr. Robert Baevsky, and chair of the JGS Lifecare board of directors, “as a physician, I am convinced of the positive healthcare outcomes and improvements in the quality of life under this model.”

All 24 rooms in the two-story Sosin Center are private, with full baths, and each home has a shared living room, dining room, den, kitchen, salon, and screened porch, which provides seasonal access to the outdoors. For admissions information, call (413) 567-6211.

Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced that its foundation, in partnership with New England Sports Network (NESN), has awarded a $9,600 grant to Soldier On through the Berkshire Bank Exciting Assists Grant program. Soldier On CFO Bruce Buckley accepted the contribution from Gary Levante, Berkshire Bank’s assistant vice president of Community Engagement, during NESN’s coverage of the Boston Bruins game on Dec. 8.

The Exciting Assists Grant program runs through April 1, 2017 and raises funds to support three charitable causes. Berkshire Bank’s foundation provides $100 per Bruins assist to the program. During the first portion of the season, Boston had 96 assists, resulting in the $9,600 grant from Berkshire Bank Foundation.

Soldier On, the first nonprofit beneficiary of the Exciting Assists Grant program, has a single mission: ending homelessness among the nation’s veterans. Since 1994, it has provided homeless veterans with transitional housing and supportive services including the first Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community in 2010, a permanent housing cooperative that provides formerly homeless veterans with safe, sustainable, affordable housing, transitioning them from homelessness to home ownership. Soldier On is replicating this model nationally.

In addition to Soldier On, two other nonprofit organizations will receive funding during the remainder of the season: Birthday Wishes, which provides children facing homelessness with a joyous birthday party that will brighten their special day, reduce the trauma of homelessness, and give them hope for a better future (promotion period: Dec. 8 to Feb. 3); and Cradles to Crayons, which provides children from birth through age 12, living in homeless or low-income situations, with the essential items they need to thrive at home, at school, and at play, free of charge, by engaging and connecting communities that have communities in need (promotion Period: Feb. 4 to March 31).

Daily News

LEEDS — Jason Greene, owner and founder of J. Greene Painting in Leeds, recently launched a new website with an artistic feature aimed at raising awareness and food donations for the Northampton Survival Center.

Greene said he upgraded www.jgreenepainting.com because his eight-year-old site needed a facelift, and he also wanted to update photos of completed projects and client testimonials.

To add interest and a bit of whimsy to the site, Greene created a feature through which visitors can submit haiku poetry. Each haiku submission must use the names of three paint colors from a list of 26 that Greene provides — 13 from Benjamin Moore and 13 from Sherwin-Williams.

For each haiku that’s submitted, Greene will donate a pound of food to the survival center, with a maximum donation of 100 pounds. The poems may be submitted at www.jgreenepainting.com/haiku.

“I think people like to be challenged. They’re educated. People like to be engaged, and they like to participate. This is a fun way to get involved and support the survival center,” Greene said. “People don’t need to bring cans anywhere. They don’t have to donate money. Just by submitting a clever haiku, they can generate a pound of food for someone in need.”

J. Greene Painting was established 12 years ago by Greene, who works with a team of five employees — 10 in the summer months — that also includes his father, Richard Greene. The company provides interior and exterior residential and commercial painting.

Greene used the haiku concept on his site about six years ago, as a contest. He has also run several similar contests in the past on his Facebook page, offering gift cards as prizes. In this promotion, there are no winners and no prizes, but he hopes to raise awareness of the Northampton Survival Center.

“The Valley is so great about giving,” he said. “I want people to be able to watch each other submit and watch the pounds of food accumulate.”

A haiku is a Japanese poem of 17 syllables, usually presented in three lines. Greene said clients who have visited his website in the past often remark about the haiku poetry that is contained on it.

One example of a haiku on Greene’s company site came from Lisa Labrecque of West Springfield, who wrote, “The Night Train crawls by/Hopeful is a Windy Sky/Along New Age comes.” Night Train, Windy Sky, and New Age are all paint-color names.

Daily News

BOSTON — The MBTA announced it will place a second order for new Red Line cars with CRRC, the company already contracted to build new train cars at a facility it is building in Springfield, the Republican reported. MBTA officials say it’s cheaper to pay $300,000 for each new car than to rehab aging trains.

CRRC, the Chinese-owned world leader in rail-car manufacturing, won a contract in 2014 to build 152 Orange Line cars and 132 Red Line cars to replace aging trains. Under the new proposal, CRRC will start building an additional 120 Red Line cars in 2022 after completing the initial order of Red Line and Orange Line cars. The proposal includes an option to purchase 14 more.

Departments Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]
A photo essay of recent business events in Western Massachusetts December 12, 2016

Service Above Self

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Last month, the Springfield Rotary Club staged its annual Service Above Self luncheon at the Basketball Hall of Fame, an event where two individuals, one regional and one national, are honored for their work for and within the community. Honored this year were NBA great (and Hall of Famer) Spencer Haywood and Susan Jaye-Kaplan, founder of Link to Libraries and GoFIT. Top to bottom: from left, Lamont Clemons, first vice president of the Springfield Rotary Club, Frank Colaccino, CEO of the Colvest Group, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, and Haywood; Basketball Hall of Fame President and CEO John Doleva, right, with the two honorees; state Sen. Eric Lesser presents Jaye-Kaplan with a commendation from the state for her work within the community.