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Year: 2016

Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts Seeks Pynchon Award Nominations

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The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts is seeking nominations from the four Western Massachusetts counties for the 101st annual William Pynchon Award, the area’s oldest community service award.

Established in 1915, the award honors individuals from all walks of life who go beyond the call of duty to enhance the quality of life here in our Western Mass community. Past recipients have included social activists, teachers, philanthropists, historians, clergy, volunteers, physicians, journalists, and business leaders, a diverse group with one thing in common — a drive to make our region a better place for all who live here.

To nominate an individual, submit a one-page letter explaining why the nominee should be considered. Please include brief biographical information, outstanding accomplishments, examples of service to the community, organizations he or she is or has been active in, and the names, phone numbers and e-mail addresses of at least three people who can further attest to the nominee’s eligibility for induction into the Order of William Pynchon.

All nominees will be considered and researched by the Pynchon Trustees, comprised of past and present presidents of the Advertising Club. Nominations must be submitted by April 30 to: William Pynchon Trustees, Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts, P.O. Box 1022, West Springfield, MA 01090-1022 or by e-mail to [email protected]

Jean Deliso Joins Select Group Helping AARP Members Secure Their Futures

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Daily News

AGAWAM — Jean M. Deliso, CFP, from the CT Valley General Office of New York Life, recently joined a select group of agents who are authorized to offer AARP members a range of financial solutions through AARP life insurance, annuity and long-term care options from New York Life. To become part of this group of agents, Deliso followed a certification process established by New York Life, which includes extensive training on products and regulations, education on evaluating client needs, state licensing and a commitment to service.

AARP Services, AARP’s for-profit subsidiary, provides quality control over the certification process and training.

Deliso, is president/owner of Deliso Financial and Insurance Services, a firm focusing in comprehensive planning designed to help position clients for a solid financial future. Her extensive experience in several areas has helped lead to a reputation for certain specializations, such as assisting people in planning for their financial future, particularly in preparation for retirement as well as in times of transition such as divorce or widowhood.

After graduating from Bentley University, Deliso spent seven years in the public accounting profession before transitioning to Financial Services in which she has been working for more than 20 years.

New York Life has been offering AARP-branded products to AARP members since 1994. Since then, the relationship has grown to include a portfolio of annuity products (added in 2006) and now most recently long-term care options in [2016].

Professional Women’s Chamber Announces Arlene Rodriguez as 2016 Woman of the Year

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Professional Women’s Chamber (PWC) has announced that Arlene Rodriguez, vice president of academic affairs for Springfield Technical Community College has been named the PWC 2016 Woman of the Year.

The Woman of the Year is presented to a woman in the Western Mass. area who exemplifies outstanding leadership, professional accomplishment, and service to the community.

This award has been given annually since 1954 and is publically recognized as one of the most prestigious honors given to any citizen for distinguished service and selfless giving.

“We’re thrilled with this year’s honoree — a truly inspiring and accomplished woman like Dr. Rodriguez,” said PWC Board President Janet Casey. “She is a trailblazer amongst women and a staunch advocate for education, empowerment and advancement and her passion to help young people succeed is unparalleled.”

A celebration in her honor will be held on May 24, at 5:30 p.m. at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield.  Reservations are $55 and may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or by contacting Kara Cavanaugh at [email protected]. At STCC, Rodriguez oversees all faculty in the academic schools at the college, and formerly was the school’s dean of the School of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. She has also served as the Honors College coordinator and professor at the college, and is the first Latina vice president of academic affairs at the College.

Rodríguez grew up in New York City, spending each of her summers in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, a rural mountain town where her parents’ roots grow deep. Life in New York taught her an appreciation for an expansive, fast-paced city life with all peoples, cultures, and languages, while Aibonito showed her the importance of family, neighbors, and their stories.

Born in The Bronx to parents who never finished high school, Rodriguez, the youngest of four, learned to read by reading articles aloud from the newspaper to her mother as she cooked breakfast every morning. At a young age she developed a love for the written word devouring everything from newspapers to magazines and classic literature.

Rodríguez speaks English and Spanish, and longs to add Italian to that list. Her love of literature led her to earn three degrees in English, including her undergraduate one from Fordham University, a master’s from Lehigh University, and her doctorate from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.

Rodríguez has been a journalist and a short-fiction writer. For more than 10 years, she taught English at Springfield Technical Community College. She has served as the college’s dean of the School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences from 2005-2015, when she was then promoted to vice president of academic affairs, the first Latina to serve in that position.

She was recently honored with the Springfield Women’s Commission Unsung Heroine Award, was named a 2007 BusinessWest 40 Under 40, and was honored with the STCC Anthony Scibelli Endowed Chair in 2005.

She is a member of the YWCA Board of Directors, and serves on Springfield’s Rosa Parks Organizing Committee, Springfield Ward 7 Democratic City Committee, Springfield Armory Council and the WGBY Board of Tribunes and Latino Advisory Board.

BusinessWest Seeks Nominations for Continued Excellence Award

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SPRINGFIELD — As part of its 10th annual 40 Under Forty program, BusinessWest is taking nominations for its second annual Continued Excellence Award, the winner of which will be unveiled at the 40 Under Forty gala on June 16. The nomination deadline has been extended to May 2 at 5 p.m. Last year, BusinessWest inaugurated the award to recognize past 40 Under Forty honorees who had significantly built on their achievements since they were honored. The five finalists for that award last year were Kamari Collins, Jeff Fialky, Cinda Jones, Kristin Leutz, and the eventual winner, Delcie Bean IV. “So many 40 Under Forty honorees have refused to rest on their laurels,” said Kate Campiti, associate publisher of BusinessWest. “We wanted to honor those who continue to build upon their strong records of service in business, within the community, and as regional leaders. Last year’s five finalists have certainly done that, and we expect this year’s nominees to be equally inspiring.” Candidates must hail from 40 Under Forty classes prior to the year of the award, in this case, classes 2007-15. The nomination form is available HERE. For your convenience, a list of the past nine 40 Under Forty classes may be found at HERE.

Springfield College Announces Commencement Speakers

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SPRINGFIELD — Timothy Shriver, chairman of the Special Olympics, and Mark Keroack, president and chief executive officer for Baystate Health, Baystate Medical Center, and chair of the board directors for Health New England, will deliver the commencement addresses and receive honorary degrees at the Springfield College 2016 commencement ceremonies.
Shriver will address students at the undergraduate ceremony on May 15, at 9:30 a.m., at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Keroack will speak at the graduate commencement ceremony on May 14, at 9:30 a.m., on the College’s Naismith Green.

Shriver has served as an advocate at the national and international levels to accumulate support for issues of concern to the Special Olympics Community. He has done the same thing in the film world, co-producing Disney Studios’ The Loretta Claiborne Story, and serving as executive producer of the films The Ringer and Front of the Class. In this pursuit, Shriver also wrote a book detailing his experiences working with individuals with intellectual disabilities, and how they have inspired him, titled Fully Alive: Discovering What Matters Most.

Prior to becoming part of the Special Olympics team, Shriver co-founded, and still serves as chair for, the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning, a leading research organization dedicated to the field of social and emotional learning.

Shriver has earned numerous awards for his labor, including the Medal of the City of Athens, Greece; the U.S. Surgeon General’s Medallion; the Quincy Jones Humanitarian Award; and the Children’s Hospital Health System’s Friend of Children Award. He also was recognized, in 2011, by The Huffington Post as one of the top 100 Game Changers.
Shriver received an undergraduate degree from Yale University, a master’s degree from Catholic University, and a doctorate from the University of Connecticut.

As part of the undergraduate ceremony, long-time Springfield College Trustee Douglass L. Coupe will receive an honorary degree from the College.
The graduate ceremony speaker, Keroack, has seen many facets of the medical and health care industry during his career. In his current position, he provides strategic, financial, and operation oversight for the clinical delivery system for Baystate Medical Center, the tertiary care academic medical center for western Massachusetts, four community hospitals in the area, the 942 providers in 90 practices across the region that make up Baystate Medical Practices, Baystate’s research and educational programs, VNA and hospice, and other ventures.

Prior to his current role, Keroack served as the president and CEO of Baystate Medical Center, the system chief operating officer, and then as the chief physician executive and president for Baystate Medical practices.

Keroack earned a bachelor’s degree from Amherst College, medical degree from Harvard Medical School, and a master’s degree from Boston University. He was a resident in internal medicine and infectious diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

W.D. Cowls, Beacon Communities to Partner on Third Phase of Mill District

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NORTH AMHERST — W.D. Cowls Inc. announced the start of Phase Three of its Mill District development, with a preliminarily agreement with Beacon Communities, the award-winning, locally established, multi-family-housing development, management, and investment company based in Boston.

Mollye Lockwood, W.D. Cowls’ Vice President for Real Estate and Community Development, initiated a relationship with Beacon Communities for what she expects will be the next phase of The Mill District.

Beacon is envisioning a development that will feature mixed-income, rental housing and first floor commercial/retail space for lease, all to be located on the south side of Cowls Road, across the street from the Trolley Barn; between Atkins – Your Local Market and Cowls Building Supply. The project is still in its initial stages of site due diligence, community engagement, and concept brainstorming.

With the redevelopment of The Mill District, Cowls seeks to “bring back community” in our less personally connected Internet age. “So many people today don’t belong to sporting clubs, fraternal organizations, or churches like they used to. Shopping malls and huge grocery emporiums on highways have taken away community interactions that were once naturally organic,” said Lockwood. “The Mill District seeks to bring back community by creating a sense of place through a mixed-use destination, where people live; dine; recreate; buy things better bought at a store rather than on the Internet; and enjoy services such as salons and health clubs.”

For several years Cowls has been looking for the opportunity to create a mixed-income rental community in The Mill District and has heard from its neighbors and the Amherst community that this much-needed housing would be welcomed. “I’ve worked with the impressive principals of Beacon Communities in the past,” said Lockwood, “and the Town of Amherst has admired this Massachusetts company for stepping forward to protect the town’s affordable housing inventory by purchasing and soundly managing Rolling Green Apartments.”
“We have heard and responded to the wishes of our neighbors,” said Lockwood, “Our goal is to create a high- quality community that serves a diverse income range and offers housing options that will appeal to young professionals, young families, and those who are down-sizing their homes.”

While Beacon will own and professionally manage all apartments, as its does with all of its properties, the first floor commercial/retail space will be controlled by Cowls in order to provide and ensure diverse community gathering space with a balanced mix of restaurants, shops, and services.

Florence Bank promotes Kurt Shouse to IT Post

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Daily News

FLORENCE — Florence Bank, a mutually owned savings bank serving the Pioneer Valley through nine branch locations, has promoted Kurt Shouse of to the position of information security officer/cyber security administrator.

Shouse joined Florence Bank in 2014 as a cyber security administrator. He earned a bachelor’s degree from UMass Amherst, as well as a master’s in Cybersecurity, with a concentration in computer forensics and cyber operations. He also has earned a Global Essentials Security Certification.

Florence Bank President and CEO John F. Heaps, Jr., said, “we’re pleased to promote Kurt to this expanded role with our bank. We take a very pro-active stance where security and information security is concerned and Kurt is someone whose expertise will continue to be of great value to our bank and our customers.”

PVCICS Seeks Reconsideration of Enrollment-expansion Request

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Daily News

HADLEY — The Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Charter School (PVCICS) is asking the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to reconsider Commissioner Mitchell Chester’s decision to deny the expansion of its authorized enrollment to 968 students.

“Currently we are serving 430 students in grades K through 11, and we will be expanding into the 12th grade next year,” said PVCICS Executive Director Richard Alcorn. “We need authorization now to provide planning time to find and develop a facility suitable for a robust and economically sustainable high-school experience for our students.”

PVCICS is offering all its students the two-year International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in 11th and 12th grades. PVCICS wants to build a high school similar in scale to other academically and economically successful Eastern Mass. IB charter high schools with a variety of course offerings and extracurricular options.

Opened in 2007, PVCICS is the state’s first and only Chinese-language-immersion public charter school. It serves a racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse student body. Nationally, language immersion programs are gaining in popularity and demonstrating educational success.

Alcorn recently testified before the state Joint Committee on Education telling lawmakers that Massachusetts — and the New England region — are behind the national curve in adopting language-immersion programs. “State law should reflect the fact there is no single school model that is the best for all students, and it should support innovation and choice with a variety of quality alternatives.”

Alcorn submitted specific requests for changes to the charter-school law to Senate President Stanley Rosenberg for consideration by the Senate charter school working group, including authorizing charter schools to create special-education and two-way language-immersion schools. He also plans to reach out to Gov. Charlie Baker to solicit support.

Last fall, PVCICS was named the top-performing high school among public schools by the Boston Business Journal. In December, the school received the 2015 Confucius Classrooms of the Year Award, which is presented to 10 schools across the world for excellence in teaching and learning, curriculum, cultural richness, community engagement, and extracurricular activities. Only three schools in the U.S. received the award.

Celebrate Holyoke Announces New Director, Seeks Vendors

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HOLYOKE — With planning for Celebrate Holyoke well underway, the committee announced its new executive director, Jenna Weingarten, who will lead the efforts to coordinate this August’s three-day festival. In addition, the committee welcomes applications from local food, alcohol, and other vendors, including artisans and community organizations.

A 2011 Hampshire College graduate, Weingarten has been involved in the Pioneer Valley art scene on many different levels. She has operated several galleries in Western Mass., hosting a wide variety of artistic exhibitions. She serves as project manager for the ARTery project based out of the Holyoke Creative Art Center that provides development resources for Western Mass. creatives. She also teaches the business of art at the recently opened Lighthouse Center for Teens in downtown Holyoke and serves on the city’s Local Cultural Council. She was heavily involved in Celebrate Holyoke this past year, running the Holyoke Arts Bazaar that took place along the Canal Walk.

Celebrate Holyoke is a three-day festival that made its return last August after a 10-year hiatus, drawing an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 people downtown over the course of the weekend. This year’s festival is scheduled for August 26-28 and will include live musical performances, food and beverages from local restaurants, and goods from local artists and makers. Back by popular demand is Slide the City, which will take place on Saturday, Aug. 27.

The planning committee is seeking alcohol distributors, food trucks, restaurateurs, artisans, nonprofits, and community organizations interested in joining this downtown Holyoke event. Applications are available in person at the mayor’s office or online at www.celebrateholyokemass.com/#!vendors/c1lxs. In addition, volunteers are needed both before and during Celebrate Holyoke to help promote, plan, and run the three-day event. For more information, visit www.celebrateholyokemass.com.

Elms College Dance Team to Host Cancer Fund-raiser Concert

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — The Elms College dance team will hold a dance concert in celebration of life and love on Sunday, April 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Veritas Auditorium. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the We Love Riley Fan Club, an organization that promotes childhood cancer awareness and research, and provides assistance to children and families living with this disease.

This is the fourth year the dance team has organized this event in partnership with the organization — named for 8-year-old Riley Román of South Hadley, who died of pediatric brain cancer in 2012 — which also raises money to donate Starlight Fun Center Mobile Entertainment Units to hospital departments serving children with brain cancer and brain tumors.

The concert will feature a variety of dance styles, from hip-hop to contemporary. “We will have dancers of all different ages and experiences, from beginners to professionals, from all over Massachusetts,” said Justine Butler, the dance team’s co-captain with Kendal Cassada. Many of the dancers will come from Elms, but some will come from other area colleges, such as Bay Path University, or local dance studios.

The show will last approximately 90 minutes, with a 15-minute intermission during which raffle prizes will be announced, and refreshments and baked goods will be sold. Tickets cost $8 for adults and $5 for students. Attendees may reserve tickets online at bit.ly/1WnxAxG — this option guarantees the student price for all tickets reserved. Payments accepted by cash or check only; checks may be made payable to the Elms College Dance Team. Additional donations are also welcome.

“This event should bring the community together as advocates for change and awareness while enjoying and appreciating the arts,” Butler said.

The Elms College Dance Team is a club sport with 15 members. The advisor is Maureen Holland, and coach Noel St. Jean-Chevalier runs practices and choreographs routines.

“Participating in these events allows us students to reach beyond our academic potential and see the change that we can make in our community,” Butler said. “College isn’t just about growing as a student with the hopes of graduating with a career — it is about growing in character and faith to ultimately reach our fullest potential, so that we can thrive in our ever-changing world. Dance, academics, and community events allow us to become well-rounded and passionate individuals. They enable students to become leaders and advocates for their passions and desires — to make a difference.”

Balise Kia Dealership Opens in West Springfield

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Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The new Balise Kia in West Springfield, located on Riverdale Street next to Balise Mazda, opened on Thursday, April 14.

The completely renovated, 15,000-square-foot dealership replaces the Balise-owned Mighty Auto Parts warehouse, which has been relocated to a nearby facility. The new Kia building features a customer-friendly showroom and comfortable waiting area with free WiFi. The dealership also offers a covered service drive-up for customer convenience.

Bill Peffer, president and COO of Balise Motor Sales, said he’s excited to welcome a rapidly growing brand to the Balise family.

“The addition of Kia, one of the fastest-growing brands in the United States, aligns perfectly with the Balise philosophy of putting the customer first,” he said. “With numerous accolades in the areas of quality, safety, and sustainability, we’re thrilled to continue serving Kia customers throughout Western Massachusetts with a high-quality product.”

Construction and renovation of the facility was completed by Associated Builders of South Hadley. This is the first Kia dealership for the Balise group and will be the only Kia Motors America franchise in the Springfield Metro area.

Spectrum Business to Host Discussion on Network Security, IT Trends

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Spectrum Business Enterprise Solutions will host a free panel discussion on network security and IT trends for area businesses on Thursday, April 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. A complimentary lunch and tour of the Basketball Hall of Fame following the event are included.

“Network security past and present, along with risks moving to the cloud, are increasing concerns for businesses of any size,” said Mark Holbrook, director of Spectrum Business Sales Engineering. “Participants who attend will learn more about IT trends and how taking the right network security measures can make a huge difference in the way they do business.”

The panel of experts includes Gunnar Peters, director of emerging network products, Spectrum Business; Mark Holbrook, director of sales engineering, Spectrum Business; James Baker, lead information security consultant, Peritus Security Partners; and Joe Connolly, strategic account director, Fortinet. Topics include the latest security and detection and IT trends, network security present and future, security risks moving to the cloud, and business continuity and network diversity.

Space is limited. Register before Tuesday, April 26 at go.enterprise.spectrum.com/experts.in.tech.html or call Robert DeMaria at (774) 239-7018.

Todd Lucht Joins Team at van Schouwen Associates

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Daily News

LONGMEADOW — van Schouwen Associates, LLC (vSA) announced the addition of Todd Lucht as art director and web developer for its business-to-business marketing team.

Lucht adds extensive graphic and interactive design and creative software engineering to vSA. As the head of creative for Sounds True, a Colorado-based multi-media publisher, Lucht most recently oversaw that firm’s art direction and brand management. Previously, he supervised the art department for mortgage broker Urban Lending Group and worked with Florida-based ad agency Provident Creative.

“Todd’s interactive development and design skills will enhance our programs for our many business-to-business clients,” said Michelle van Schouwen, vSA president. “His experience producing digital assets will appeal to our clients as B2B and launch marketing rapidly continue to expand.”

Lucht has a master’s degree in technology management from the University of Denver and a bachelor’s degree from International Fine Arts College. He has developed asset-management websites and applications, motion graphics, and online catalogs. In addition to his work in the creative and marketing industry, Lucht played professional hockey in Russia for four years.

Springfield Regional Chamber, EDC to Discuss Region’s Renaissance

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Regional Chamber, in partnership with the Western Mass. Economic Development Council (EDC), will present a panel discussion, “Creating a Western Massachusetts Renaissance,” on Wednesday, May 11 from 7:15 to 9 a.m. at the MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield, sponsored by People’s United Bank.

Panelists will discuss the Massachusetts economy and how communities across the Commonwealth can work together to create a broader and more robust economy. Panelists will also outline local economic-development initiatives at work in Western Mass. and how the region can capitalize on its existing assets and develop its growth engines, and the important role the healthcare sector plays in developing centers of excellence for future growth.

Panelists will include John Traynor, executive vice president and chief investment officer at People’s United Bank; Rick Sullivan, EDC president; and Dr. Mark Keroack, president and CEO of Baystate Health, and the discussion will be moderated by David Hobert, the bank’s regional president.

Reservations for the breakfast event are $35 and may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or by e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

Massachusetts Unemployment Rate Drops to 4.4% in March

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Daily News

BOSTON — The state’s total unemployment rate dropped to 4.4% in March from the February rate of 4.5%, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported. Preliminary job estimates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate Massachusetts continues to gain jobs, with 6,900 added in March.

The March gain follows upward revisions for February, with total job gains of 13,900. Preliminary February estimates indicated the state added 13,300 jobs over the month. Massachusetts has added 22,000 jobs year-to-date from March 2015 to March 2016.

In March, over-the-month job gains occurred in the construction; trade, transportation, and utilities; other services; information; education and health services; and government sectors.

“We are very pleased to see the unemployment rate continues to drop and the labor force is increasing,” Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Ronald Walker said. “We see continued job growth in many of the state’s strongest sectors, including health services and education, and professional, scientific, and business services.”

The March state unemployment rate remains lower than the national rate of 5.0% reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

State Leaders Recognize 10-year Anniversary of Universal Healthcare

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Daily News

BOSTON — Gov. Charlie Baker, House Speaker Robert DeLeo, and Senate President Stan Rosenberg issued statements this week in recognition of the 10-year anniversary of universal access to healthcare in Massachusetts.

“Ten years ago, Massachusetts led the country by creating a landmark healthcare coverage law, and today we are pleased that 96.4% of the state’s population is insured,” Baker said. “Through our state-based marketplace, individuals and families have the ability to choose their best coverage options, and while there is still more work to be done to increase accessibility and transparency for consumers, we have taken many steps in the right direction.”

Added DeLeo, “at the time, I think everyone in the Legislature knew that bill would be a big deal. But it’s amazing to look back at it 10 years later and think about how in hindsight our efforts became the model for the country’s universal healthcare law. In Massachusetts, we often say that we lead the way for the rest of the nation. This bill is proof of that notion.”

Rosenberg noted that “healthcare reform began in Massachusetts 10 years ago and has increased access to high-quality healthcare for our residents. The evolution of its passage serves as a reminder of how cooperation between political parties can produce meaningful public policy that makes a real difference in the lives of millions of people. It now serves as the model for our national healthcare law, which is bringing people, some for the first time in their lives, access to healthcare across the country. As we move forward, our focus now is to bring down costs and produce better outcomes for our residents.”

Joan Hunter Joins Berkshire Museum Board of Trustees

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PITTSFIELD — Joan Hunter has joined the Berkshire Museum board of trustees as its newest member. Hunter brings a wealth of experience as a dedicated volunteer in the cultural community in the Berkshires as well as her professional expertise in the field of education.

The trustees and staff of the museum are currently engaged in a long-range strategic master-planning process. The goals of the master plan are to create a sustainable, relevant institution that continues to provide high-quality experiences for its participants in the 21st century.

“Growing up in Pittsfield, Joan Hunter has long had a deep understanding of what the Berkshire Museum means to our community. With her experience and skills, we are confident she will make a strong contribution to our organization as we work to determine how best to fulfill the museum’s mission and serve the people of the Berkshires,” said Bill Hines, board president. “Through our master-planning process, Joan and her fellow trustees are participating in a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the course of our future.”

Hunter is a former special-education teacher in Pittsfield. While raising a family, she and her husband, James, owned and operated the House of Walsh in Williamstown. She has been a member of the board of directors at Jacob’s Pillow Dance in Becket since 2001 and served as chair from 2009 to 2014. She has volunteered extensively in the Williamstown community, including serving as co-chair for the capital campaign to build the Milne Public Library. Past board service includes Williamstown Elementary School, Pine Cobble School, Williamstown Public Library, Child Care of the Berkshires, Williamstown Chamber Concerts, Williamstown Film Festival, and Williamstown Theatre Festival.

Located in downtown Pittsfield, Berkshire Museum, a Smithsonian affiliate, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $13 for adults, $6 for children, and free for museum members and children age 3 and under. For more information, visit www.berkshiremuseum.org or call (413) 443-7171.

Tres Chic Ladies Brunch Celebrates Sisterhood, Empowerment

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Swanson Meetings & Event Planning will present the Tres Chic Ladies Brunch on Saturday, April 30 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at LaQuinta Inn and Suites in Springfield.

The brunch will feature mistress of ceremonies Alysia Cutting, media personality and performer. During the brunch, attendees will hear from several powerful business ladies, including Brenda’s Child, author and educator; Crystal Senter-Brown, author and performer; Natasha Clark, entrepreneur; and Lynnette Johnson, author and poet.

Tickets are $28 in advance and $35 at the door. To purchase tickets, make checks payable to Swanson Meetings & Event Planning, LLC and mail to 3 Peer St., Springfield, MA 01109, or fax (413) 342-4963 with credit-card information.

Vendors will be available with products and services to browse and purchase; vendor tables are $50. For ticket and vendor-table information, contact Diane Swanson at [email protected] or (413) 886-2325.

Leadership Pioneer Valley Seeks Applications for Class of 2017

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SPRINGFIELD — Leadership Pioneer Valley (LPV) is now accepting applications for enrollment in its class of 2017. The regional leadership-development program begins in September.

LPV utilizes a 10-month, topically relevant, ever-changing curriculum designed to challenge and engage emerging leaders from all sectors of the community within the Pioneer Valley region. The curriculum consists of both classroom and hands-on, experiential learning through retreats, day-long seminars, field experiences, and team projects. To date, more than 180 individuals representing more than 82 companies, organizations, and municipalities have participated.

LPV is seeking applicants from nonprofits, businesses, and government who are eager to increase their leadership skills and take action to better the region. Applicants are considered in a competitive application process that prioritizes diversity by employment sector, geography, race, gender, and sexual orientation. Emerging leaders, mid-career professionals with leadership potential, and those looking to better the Pioneer Valley should consider applying.

In its five years running, the program has filled a critical need for a leadership program that builds a network of emerging leaders to address the challenges and opportunities of the region. Fifty-three percent of alumni have a new leadership role at work, 64% have joined a new board of directors, and 99% made new, meaningful connections.

The deadline for LPV class of 2017 applications is July 1. Applications and further information can be found at www.leadershippv.org.

Seminar to Address Wage-and-hour Challenges for Restaurant Owners

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Navigating wage-and-hour law, particularly in the restaurant industry, is a complicated minefield, and it’s easy to make an inadvertent mistake. What’s more troubling is that violations of wage-and-hour laws in Massachusetts can be extremely costly.

Royal, P.C. will present a round-table-style seminar on Thursday, May 5 discussing some of the most important wage-and-hour laws, and offering timely and practical advice, methods, and strategies to help ensure that organizations are up to date and in compliance with these laws. Attorney Jennifer Butler will address topics such as tipped workers and minimum wage, overtime, earned sick time, and child labor.

The seminar runs from 8 to 9 a.m. at Royal, P.C., 270 Pleasant St., Northampton. The cost is $30 per person. Seating is limited, and advance registration is required. To register, mail a check — payable to Royal, P.C. — to 270 Pleasant St., Northampton, MA 01060, or e-mail Ann-Marie Marcil at [email protected] with questions about the event or to register.

Parisi Management Group Expands to Larger Office

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Daily News

EAST LONGMEADOW — Parisi Management Group (PMG), a real-estate-focused asset-management firm founded in July 2014 by Ellen Parisi, has seen rapid growth over the last year, leading to a need for larger office space. PMG can now be found at its new location, 75 North Main St., Suite 100, East Longmeadow.

Over the past year, the boutique asset-management firm has seen an influx of new employees and clientele. A need for administrative support, project-management supervision, and data analytics, coupled with an increase in deal flow and production, have been the key factors fueling the growth.

Parisi Management Group offers asset-management and administrative/financial support for large development projects with concentrated interest in the Southeastern U.S. The company believes that the expansion in to the new office space and increase in team members and production will facilitate further growth in 2016.

“We are overjoyed to be in the new offices; it is a necessity from a technical standpoint but also a wonderful indication of PMG’s immense development over the past year,” Parisi said. “East Longmeadow has always been a top choice for our home office for a lot of different reasons, so we are thrilled with the new location and the team we have assembled. I am more than excited to see what lies ahead in 2016.”

Edward Nuñez to Receive Leadership Community Service Award

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Regional Chamber announced that Edward Nuñez, assistant vice president of Business Development at Freedom Credit Union, has been named its 2016 recipient of the Leadership Community Service Award.

The award is presented as part of the Springfield Regional Chamber Leadership 2016 program, a collaboration between the chamber and Western New England University to teach middle- and upper-level managers the crucial thinking and problem-solving skills needed to prepare participants to be effective leaders in service to the community and their workplaces.

Since 1990, the award has been presented annually to a citizen or organization that exemplifies the program’s values of leadership in the workplace and in the world and a commitment to community service.

A 2009 graduate of the program, Nuñez joined Freedom Credit Union in 2002 and has over 18 years of experience in the financial-services industry. At Freedom, he leads the credit union’s Youth Banking program and the Credit Union Partners program, which provides area employers with a comprehensive benefits package to offer employees.

In addition, Nuñez takes pride in his efforts to lead Freedom’s financial-literacy efforts. For several years, he has managed the Credit for Life financial-literacy fairs for high-school students in Western Mass., and this year, he has led the credit union’s efforts to offer financial-literacy presentations at Ludlow High School and Putnam Vocational Technical Academy.

Nuñez is very active in the community and serves or has served on numerous boards and committees, including the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, Roger L. Putnam Technical Fund, North End Housing Initiative, Franklin Hampshire Regional Employment Board, Springfield Puerto Rican Parade Committee, YMCA Diversity Committee, and Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau Howdy Award Committee, to name a few.

In 2012, Nuñez was named one of BusinessWest’s 40 Under Forty award winners and was one of the first recipients of the Warren Group’s Credit Union Hero awards recognizing credit-union leaders throughout Massachusetts.

The Leadership Community Service Award will be presented to Nuñez at the Leadership 2016 graduation ceremonies on Thursday, April 14 at the Springfield Sheraton, One Monarch place, Springfield. Reservations are $40 in advance and may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

Springfield College Welcomes Miriam Siegel as HR Director

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SPRINGFIELD — Miriam Siegel has been named director of Human Resources at Springfield College. Siegel brings more than 24 years of experience in human resources to the college, including her last nine years at the senior management level. Siegel will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction surrounding all human-resources initiatives and priorities for Springfield College. Her start date is May 2.

Previously, Siegel served as senior vice president for Human Resources at United Financial Bancorp Inc., and was responsible for all human-resources functions at United, with more than 400 employees and 39 branch locations. She led the transformation of human resources as an administrative role, to a strategic business partner working with management to drive and support a performance-based culture.

Siegel earned a bachelor’s degree in business and psychology from State University of New York at Albany. She is a member of the WorldatWork society of Certified Professionals, and has been a certified compensation professional since 2004 and a certified benefits professional since 2008. She also is a member of the personnel committee for the town of Wilbraham, a board member for the Behavioral Network, a member of the Society for Human Resource Management, and a Springfield school volunteer.

Real-estate Licensing Course Begins May 2

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SPRINGFIELD — Beginning Monday, May 2, the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will sponsor a 40-hour, 14-class sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real estate salesperson license exam. The course will be completed on June 2.

Tuition is $359 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328.

Country Bank Donates $670,000 to Area Organizations in 2015

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WARE — Officials at Country Bank reported that the bank donated more than $670,000 in 2015 to nearly 350 organizations in the communities it serves through its Charitable Giving Program. Many of these donations were in the form of contributions to local nonprofits, including senior centers, food pantries, homeless shelters, and health centers.

“Our commitment to our communities is deeply rooted in our philosophy of being a good corporate citizen. As a local community partner, we understand the importance of supporting local nonprofits that exist to benefit and improve the lives of the families and individuals in our communities,” said Paul Scully, president and CEO.

For example, the Ware Valley Domestic Violence Task Force through Valley Human Services received a $15,000 donation which enabled them to work with more than 100 adults and children from Ware and Hardwick. They also used these funds for an important educational theatre for the Ware Middle and High School to teach students to recognize the signs of partner violence and what healthy relationships look like.

Meanwhile, Hearts for Heat in North Brookfield received a $2,500 donation which was used to purchase heating assistance for five local families, ensuring they stayed warm during the winter months. Scholarships were also awarded to 32 graduating seniors totaling $80,000.

Other organizations that received support from Country Bank’s charitable contributions included Leicester Public Library, Ludlow Boys & Girls Club, Baystate Mary Lane Hospital Cancer Services through the Walk of Champions, the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, the Jimmy Fund, and many more.

Country Bank’s staff are equally invested in giving back to their communities. In 2015, they volunteered more than 800 hours of their own time and contributed an additional $50,000 to employee-selected nonprofits through the bank’s Employee Charitable Giving Program. For more information about Country Bank’s Charitable Giving Program and 2015 donations, visit www.countrybank.com/about-us/our-involvement.

Area Lawyer to Teach Elder-law, Estate-planning Series at HCC

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HOLYOKE — Attorney Karen Jackson of Jackson Law will teach a series of three classes on elder law and estate planning at Holyoke Community College on Mondays, May 2, 9, and 16 from 6 to 8 p.m.

Jackson, an elder-law attorney, will address hot topics in Medicare law, supplemental-needs trusts, and new developments in community and nursing-home-care payment programs. She will also focus on other current and significant elder-law issues.

Through stories and real examples, Jackson will highlight the core estate plan and the importance of each document in it. She will discuss the problems that can occur when proper documents are not prepared before a loss of mental capacity, and she will explain the different types of trusts that can be considered, including supplemental-needs trusts, revocable trusts, and irrevocable trusts.

Jackson will also address the probate-court process and explain how to determine which assets must go through probate after a death. In addition, she will discuss various Medicaid programs that provide financial assistance for community and long-term skilled nursing care.

Couples are encouraged to attend the class. To register, call Holyoke Community College at (413) 552-2500 or visit www.hcc.edu/bce.

Northwestern Mutual Hires Three New Financial Representatives

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SPRINGFIELD — Donald Mitchell, John Richards, and Darren James have all been appointed financial representatives by Northwestern Mutual in Springfield.

Before joining Northwestern Mutual, Mitchell was vice president of Facilities and Projects at the YMCA of Greater Springfield. He received a bachelor’s degree from American International College. Currently, he is an active member of Rick’s Place, a facility that provides support to grieving children and their families.

Prior to joining Northwestern Mutual, Richards was a sergeant major in the U.S. Marine Corps, and was active in the Marines for nearly 30 years. Currently, he volunteers for the Down Syndrome Assoc. and Awana, a global ministry committed to teaching children.

James was previously the Food Service Director for Aramark. Raised in St. Maarten, he developed a passion for helping people that he believes is inherent to being raised on an island where hospitality is the mainstay of the economy. He received a bachelor’s degree from American International College.

As financial representatives, Mitchell, Richards, and James will join a network of specialists offering a wide array of products, including comprehensive financial planning, retirement planning, life-insurance planning, and more. For more information on Northwestern Mutual Springfield, visit springfield-ma.nm.com.

Learn to Start Your Own Podcast at Wistariahurst

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HOLYOKE — On Monday, April 11 at 6 p.m., Stevie Converse will be at Wistariahurst to teach workshop participants how to start their own podcasts.

Audio pieces and podcasts are increasingly becoming a popular way to connect with personal narratives and stories from the past. At this workshop, participants will learn the basics of creating compelling audio stories. Skills covered will include recording, editing, soundscapes, tips for interviews, and some ideas for distributing finished pieces. During the workshop, the group will have the chance to test out their skills by creating a short podcast together.

Converse was co-producer and co-host of the Free Press podcast “Media Minutes” for four years (200 episodes). She has taught podcasting workshops in Boston and New York. Her latest project is a multi-media story of her recent journey to Greece in search of her grandfather’s grave.

This podcasting workshop is the fifth event in the “Getting to the Story” workshop series taking place at Wistariahurst on Monday evenings. The workshop fee is $7, or $5 for Wistariahurst members. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to reserve their place ahead of time by visiting www.wistariahurst.org. No prior experience is necessary.

Gove Law Office Relocates Northampton Office

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NORTHAMPTON — Gove Law Office announced it has moved its Northampton office into larger space at the historic Old School Commons Building located at the corner of New South Street and Main Street in Northampton.

“With this move to the Old School Commons, Gove Law gains an office identity that reflects our strong Hampshire County presence and accommodates our recent and future growth plans,” said Michael Gove, founder and owner of Gove Law Office. “Both geographically and architecturally, this stunning new space supports the firm’s leading practice areas.”

Gove Law Office, with offices in Northampton and Ludlow, is a bilingual firm with attorneys who provide guidance to clients in the areas of business representation, commercial lending, residential and commercial real estate, estate planning, probate and family law, criminal and civil litigation, personal-injury law, and bankruptcy. For more information, visit www.govelawoffice.com.

Hampshire Mall Welcomes New General Manager

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HADLEY — The Hampshire Mall management team recently welcomed Lynn Gray as general manager.

Gray has extensive knowledge of the shopping-center industry. She is a graduate of Holyoke Community College with an associate degree in business administration. She returns to Hampshire Mall after holding the positions of marketing assistant, assistant marketing director, and marketing director within Pyramid Management Group from 1995 to 2005.

Prior to her return, she held various roles within General Growth Management over the past 10 years, most recently as director of field marketing for the East Region. During her time there, she received the MAXI Award for innovative contributions made to Natick Mall. She is a lifelong resident of the Western Mass. area and actively involved with several community and nonprofit organizations, including Alex Scafuri’s Benefit Fund, Harper Yucka Benefit Fund, Chicopee Youth Football Assoc., and CHERUBS.

“We are pleased to have Lynn return to Pyramid Management Group,” said Joe Castaldo, Pyramid Management Group’s director of Shopping Center Management. “With her vast experience in the shopping-center industry, she will be a tremendous asset in the development of Hampshire Mall.”

Springfield Regional Chamber’s Leadership 2016 to Graduate 22

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SPRINGFIELD — Twenty-two business professionals will graduate from the Springfield Regional Chamber’s Leadership 2016 in a ceremony on Thursday, April 14 from 6-9 p.m. at the Springfield Sheraton.

Sponsored by the MassMutual Financial Group with scholarship support from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation, the program is a collaboration between the Springfield Regional Chamber and Western New England University to teach middle- and upper-level managers the crucial thinking and problem-solving skills needed to prepare participants to be effective leaders in service to the community and their workplaces.

This year’s program, “Leadership Skills: For Personal, Organizational, and Community Development,” included an emphasis on strategies and techniques designed to create high-energy and high-involvement leadership, focusing on problem solving, learning to ask the right questions, and implementing creative and innovative solutions for both nonprofit and for-profit organizations.

“Notwithstanding the learning component, the Leadership program is unique in that it brings together people from different business backgrounds, providing an opportunity to view the various learning topics from different points of view, giving participants a greater appreciation of the lessons,” said 2016 graduate Youssef Fadel of New England Promotional Marketing. “The setting is casual and friendly, making it conducive to developing an atmosphere where one wants to learn and observe. You get to appreciate many aspects of leadership and come out with a specific plan for your own leadership journey. You can use what you learned in your professional, volunteer, or personal life.”

Working alongside Western New England University professors, participants actively explored best practices of leaders; analyzed their own leadership, learning, and problem-solving styles; were challenged to think in new ways and to analyze their own strengths and organizational challenges within a dynamic economy; and explored task and interpersonal focus, negotiation orientation, and emotional intelligence, supplemented by self-diagnostics, experiential activities, and case studies.

“The Leadership Institute offers a wonderful refresher on various leadership frameworks such as planning and problem solving. It helps you to stretch your mind to explore ways you can use your influence to help others. If you get the opportunity to participate in the Leadership Institute, I highly recommend it,” said 2016 graduate Gillian Palmer, business development and group sales coordinator with the Eastern States Exposition.

Sessions included “Each Person’s Behavior Makes Perfectly Good Sense to Them: We Are All Different,” which explored how individuals differ in the ways they learn, communicate, lead, and follow, and “Leadership Who Get Things Done: The Power of Influence,” which focused on influence skills such as reading other people and adapting the message so it will be better-understood, understanding the six universal forms of influence, and developing political savvy.

Since 1982, more than 900 area leaders have graduated from the institute.

“TD Bank’s focus on continued development of our rising talent goes hand in hand with the goals of the Leadership program,” said Christine Moran, senior vice president and market commercial credit manager for TD Bank, who has sponsored many of these area leaders. “Year over year, we have seen our employees develop increased confidence and gain negotiation and influential skills to become stronger team members. These accomplishments keep us committed to the program, as we continually grow our next generation of leaders.”

Members of this year’s class include: Bill Raimondi and Christopher Savenko, Baystate Health; Sean Nimmons, Big Y Foods Inc.; Gillian Palmer, Eastern States Exposition; Abby Getman, Food Bank of Western Mass.; Mahera Chiarizio, Ryan Howard, Terri Lombardo, Naida Lopez, and Shawn Teece, HCS Headstart Inc.; Waleska Lugo-DeJesus, Healing Racism Institute of the Pioneer Valley; Steven Facchetti and Tina Whitney, MassMutual Financial Group; Melissa Nelson, Medvest LLC (Doctors Express); Youssef Fadel, New England Promotional Marketing; Latora Godbolt, Ormsby Insurance Agency; Vickie Dempesy, Shriners Hospital for Children; Michael Ehmke and Christopher Scott, TD Bank; Julie Fregeau, the Republican; Marlene Johnson, United Personnel; and Mike Murray, Western New England University.

Reservations for the graduation are $40 per person and required in advance. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or by contacting Kara Cavanaugh at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].

Topping-off Event at Sosin Center for Rehabilitation Set for April 13

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LONGMEADOW — JGS Lifecare will hold a topping-off ceremony on Wednesday, April 13 to commemorate the placement of the highest steel beam in the new Sosin Center for Rehabilitation located on the Longmeadow campus of the healthcare system serving seniors and their families.

Construction of the 24,000-square-foot Sosin Center began in June 2015. The center will include two self-contained homes for up to 12 people, designed in the small-house model of care. JGS Lifecare is partnering with the Green House Project to implement the patient-centered model of care that reduces medication use and rehospitalizations, while affording greater socialization and interaction with caregivers. The Sosin Center will be the only Green House-certified facility in Western Mass., and is set to open in September.

The April 13 program runs from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a reception. The site is located at 770 Converse St., Longmeadow. Among the expected attendees are state Rep. Brian Ashe, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Longmeadow Town Manager Stephen Crane, Longmeadow Select Board Chairman Richard Foster, and Longmeadow Select Board member Marie Angelides.

A topping-off ceremony is a construction-industry tradition marking the moment when the crew puts the highest structural point of a building in place. In addition to signing the beam, it is also customary to put a fir tree on the beam as a sign the building will be everlasting. The American flag that was given to JGS Lifecare as a keepsake of the building’s late benefactor, George Sosin, will also be ceremoniously raised by a Longmeadow Police Department honor guard.

Country Bank Promotes Financial Literacy to Local Middle Schools

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WARE — Country Bank recently sponsored an educational presentation called ‘The Brain Show.’ Students from Ware Middle School, Charlton Middle School, Knox Trail in Spencer, and Converse Middle School in Palmer were asked to participate in a game-show-like presentation which tested the students’ knowledge in history, math, science, art, music, and financial education.

“The Brain Show presentation allowed us to promote financial education as well as many other subjects in a way that speaks directly to students, all while working together as a team,” said Jodie Gerulaitis, financial education officer at Country Bank. “Principals and students acknowledged this show as the most exciting presentation they had seen in years. Students were not the only ones dancing and learning; the teachers had a blast too.”

Elms College Launches Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

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CHICOPEE — Elms College announced the launch of its new Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership (CEL) to expand business-education offerings at the college through a hands-on, real-world approach.

“In this time of a rapidly emerging entrepreneurial society, we need to create a flexible structure to accommodate not only degree work but also certificate programs, workshops, consulting services, and other assistance needed to make sure that entrepreneurs are equipped not only to start a business but, more importantly, to sustain it over time,” said Elms College President Sr. Mary Reap.

The Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership was developed with that goal in mind. Reap and Elms faculty have worked closely with focus groups comprised of area businesses and officials to assess the specific needs of the local business community.

Amanda Garcia, assistant professor of Accounting, was appointed director of the CEL in January. “We have an opportunity to provide hands-on learning experience,” Garcia said. “That was one of the major things that came out of the focus groups: ‘we need it to be real, and we need it to be hands-on.’”

To that end, the CEL will incorporate Lean Launchpad, a startup methodology in which new businesses receive immediate feedback from customers in the marketplace during the business launch.

“We know that the majority of businesses fail in the first five years, and a big cause of that is due to not understanding specific core business concepts or the marketplace needs,” Garcia noted. The Lean Launchpad model allows startup owners to learn as they grow their businesses and react to market demands.

The CEL’s academic offerings will include an interdisciplinary undergraduate minor in entrepreneurship, which will launch this fall. “We also plan to integrate it into an entrepreneurship track in our MBA,” Garcia said, “and we will explore the needs in the marketplace around business-growth strategies and programming related to business growth and mergers and acquisitions.”

The entrepreneurship track will join existing accounting, healthcare leadership, and management tracks in the Elms MBA program.

“Elms College also has a mission to give back to the community,” Garcia said. “We know that economic development and entrepreneurship is a big part of making our community better, so we’re planning to offer workshops and Lean Launchpad boot camps on weekends, to help people flesh out their ideas. We are also planning programming to help them learn what to do once they flesh out those ideas.”

The CEL will also partner with the college’s nursing and science programs.

“I see great opportunity in collaborating with the Elms Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership in the development of an interdisciplinary healthcare leadership program for master’s-prepared and certified nurse practitioners, as well as master’s-prepared clinical nurse leaders who seek the doctor of nursing practice,” said Dr. Kathleen Scoble, dean of the School of Nursing. “We believe that the Lean Launchpad is an excellent methodology, well-matched for nursing and healthcare, and an extraordinary learning opportunity for these advanced nursing students.”

Added Garcia, “for our biomedical technology program, we’re looking to incorporate Lean Launchpad in bringing research to commercialization. It’s one thing to have research, and it’s another thing to commercialize it and make money off of it. The National Science Foundation has partnered with Lean Launchpad on the national level to be the main method of bringing scientific research to the marketplace.”

The college will renovate space this summer to house the CEL, Reap said.

Tighe & Bond Secures Award for Engineering Excellence

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WESTFIELD — The American Council of Engineering Companies of Massachusetts presented Tighe & Bond and Borrego Solar Systems with a Silver Award for the 3.5-megawatt North Adams E Street solar photovoltaic (PV) system during its 2016 Engineering Excellence and Awards Gala.

Held on March 16 at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Cambridge, this annual competition and event recognizes recent engineering achievements that demonstrate the highest degree of merit, ingenuity, complexity, and client satisfaction.

Tighe & Bond, a New England leader in civil and environmental engineering, teamed with Borrego Solar Systems to develop a solar PV system on top of the closed E Street landfill in North Adams. Completed last year, the new solar system is one of the largest of its kind in Western Mass.

Its output, when combined with power being purchased from two other nearby PV sites, makes the city 100% solar-powered. All of its municipal buildings and facilities (schools, state-owned skating rink, and street lights) are running on clean, renewable energy. Borrego Solar Systems estimates that the array offsets 2,989 tons of carbon annually, the equivalent of removing 630 cars from the road or the amount sequestered by 2,450 acres of U.S. forests in a year.

Tighe & Bond provided site design, permitting, and construction administration for this project that sits on approximately 11.7 acres of the 31-acre capped landfill. Additional project features included the construction of access roads and the installation of ballast trays with concrete blocks to support the photovoltaic panel racks and solar panels. It also included equipment pads for the inverters and transformers, as well as a variety of other electrical infrastructure and support features.

Borrego Solar Systems was the developer of the solar system, and Syncarpha Capital is the system owner.

Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity Welcomes Back Bob Perry

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WEST SPRINGFIELD — Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) announced that Bob Perry — a donor, volunteer, partner, and friend who has supported the organization for more than 15 years — will join the team as the new volunteer donor relations manager.

“Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity is thrilled to be able to welcome back Bob Perry as our new volunteer donor relations manager,” said Jennifer Schimmel, the organization’s executive director. “Even with his new title, he’ll still be known by many as Habitat’s chief hugging officer!”

Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity is a housing ministry dedicated to strengthening communities by empowering low-income families to change their lives and the lives of future generations through home ownership and home-preservation opportunities. This is accomplished by working in partnership with diverse people, from all walks of life, to build and repair simple, decent, affordable housing. GSHFH has helped 70 local families (58 through home ownership and 12 through home preservation), as well as 90 international families, over the past 27 years.

HUB International New England Welcomes Melissa Provost

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EAST LONGMEADOW — HUB International New England, a division of HUB International Limited, announced that Melissa Provost has joined HUB International New England as a personal lines account manager, responsible for assisting clients with their home, auto, and personal-liability umbrella coverages. She will be based in the South Hadley office.

Provost joins HUB International with several years of customer service experience in the insurance industry, and has held previous positions with Liberty Mutual Insurance, most recently as a senior customer service representative. At HUB International, her role includes assisting in the day-to-day needs of clients, handling client requests, preparing quotes, reviewing and updating policies and certificates, maintaining existing client relationships, generating new business, and keeping abreast of the changing market.

“Over the past few months, we have hired several talented individuals as we continue to expand into one of the largest agencies throughout New England,” said Timm Marini, president of HUB International New England. “Melissa is a perfect fit for our agency as she is clearly a ‘people person’ who will focus on providing extraordinary customer service.”

Employer Confidence Strengthens in March

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BOSTON — Massachusetts employers grew more confident during March as turbulence in China and other key global markets subsided. At the same time, a significant gap has developed between the bullish outlook of service companies and a less optimistic view among manufacturers that is also reflective of national developments.

The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index rose 1.4 points to 56.5 last month, its highest level since November and well above the 50 mark that denotes a positive economic outlook.

The index for service companies and other non-manufacturers increased to 61.3, while the manufacturing index fell to 54.8, down 7.1 points from its level in March 2015.

The results come a week after the state announced that the unemployment rate dropped to 4.5% during February and that employers added 14,400 jobs during the first two months of the year.

“The good news is that the Massachusetts and U.S. economies have proven remarkably resilient in the face of weak growth globally that unsettled financial markets at the beginning of the year,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA) and lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Design. “What happens next? Employers here in Massachusetts appear to be generally optimistic about their prospects during the next six months, though the outlook among manufacturers remains muted by global uncertainty, weakening corporate earnings, the strength of the dollar, and rising credit risk.”

The AIM Business Confidence Index, based on a survey of Massachusetts employers, has appeared monthly since July 1991. It is calculated on a 100-point scale, with 50 as neutral; a reading above 50 is positive, while below 50 is negative. The index reached its historic high of 68.5 on two occasions in 1997-98, and its all-time low of 33.3 in February 2009. The index has remained above 50 since October 2013.

Westfield Bank, Chicopee Savings Bank to Merge

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WESTFIELD — Westfield Financial Inc., the holding company for Westfield Bank, and Chicopee Bancorp Inc., the holding company for Chicopee Savings Bank, announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement.

The merger will create the largest locally managed bank in Hampden County and the second-largest bank in terms of deposit market share in the county. The combined company will have total assets of $2.1 billion, tangible equity of over $215 million, and 21 branch locations serving customers throughout Western Mass. and Northern Conn.

“We are excited to combine with such a strong partner as Chicopee,” said James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank. “As we have gotten to know Bill Wagner and his team over time, we have been pleased at the commonality of our cultures, operating models, and the customer-service focus of our two institutions. Although headquartered in the same county, we currently serve two distinct customer bases, which, when combined, will complement each other tremendously. A merger of our two banks will be extremely favorable for the shareholders, customers, employees, and communities of both institutions.”

Following completion of the transaction, Hagan will be president and CEO of the combined company, and Donald Williams will be chairman of the Board. William Wagner, chairman, president, and CEO of Chicopee, will join the executive management team of Westfield, and will become vice chairman of the board of directors. Four additional board members of Chicopee will also join the board of Westfield. Following closing, the combined bank will do business under the Westfield Bank name, with the holding company to be renamed Western New England Bancorp. The Chicopee Savings Bank Charitable Foundation will remain in place with its original philanthropic mission in the Greater Chicopee area unchanged.

“Westfield is the ideal partner for Chicopee,” Wagner said. “This is the first in-market merger our community has seen in over 25 years and, as such, will not result in a significant outflow of resources or shift the focus of our franchise elsewhere, but rather will intensify and strengthen our combined ability to serve our local markets, consumers, and businesses that make both Westfield and Chicopee successful. I look forward to our future together as a combined institution and to the substantial impact our bank will have in Western New England.”

The merger agreement has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both Westfield and Chicopee. Closing is anticipated to occur during the fourth quarter of 2016, subject to approval by the shareholders of both companies, receipt of required regulatory approvals, and other customary closing conditions.

“Westfield has a strong reputation in commercial business lending to large-scale customers that will enhance our lending platform and ability,” Wagner said. “Moreover, the larger lending limit, breadth of product mix, and deep and sophisticated support functions will allow our bank to be a major competitor in Western New England for years to come.”