2016 - Page 35 of 44 - BusinessWest

Company Notebook

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Company Notebook Departments

Trinity Health Awards Grant for Mercy Project

SPRINGFIELD — Trinity Health, the parent organization of Mercy Medical Center, has selected Mercy’s new community health project as a recipient of a grant under its Transforming Communities Initiative (TCI), a program that will result in the investment of $80 million in grants, loans, community-match dollars, and services in six communities over the next five years. As one of the six initial grant recipients, Mercy Medical Center will receive up to $500,000 per year to support a collaborative program that will improve health and well-being in the local community. The Springfield-based TCI partnership involves Mercy Medical Center and Live Well Springfield (LWS), a multi-sector, community-based coalition that includes more than 26 organizations working in the city. The program aims to provide services and improve policies that target low-income adults and children disproportionately impacted by health conditions related to poor diet, inactivity, tobacco use, and other social determinants. Specific strategies include enhancing early-education and care sites through nutrition and physical activity, school-nutrition improvements, Complete Streets infrastructure, and tobacco-use prevention. Partners currently include Mercy Medical Center and LWS members Martin Luther King Jr. Center, HAPHousing, Square One, Springfield Food Policy Council, Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, and Partners for a Healthier Community, serving as co-conveners and evaluators. Expected community benefits for the Springfield community include reduced rates of smoking, reduced youth obesity rates, improved access to nutrition and physical activity opportunities, fewer health disparities, and enhanced community wellness and resiliency. “The partnership between Mercy Medical Center and Live Well Springfield is truly a collaborative effort that brings numerous agencies together to improve the health of our community and each person we serve,” said Doreen Fadus, executive director of Community Benefit and Health, Mercy Medical Center. “It also reaffirms our commitment to population health management that calls us to identify specific individuals with particular needs within a given population, and then create care systems that work to improve the care and the health for individuals, particularly those at high risk or with chronic disease.” Mercy Medical Center earned the grant after responding to an RFP that defined appropriate multi-sector partners for these funded community collaborations. Potential partners included community groups, businesses, social-service agencies, schools, and others. The collaboration is expected to leverage system, hospital, and community expertise, funding, and other resources to improve community health. “We are delighted to be providing Mercy Medical Center and Live Well Springfield with this support,” said Dr. Bechara Choucair, senior vice president for Safety and Community Health, Trinity Health. “Mercy Medical Center and Live Well Springfield have a strategic collaboration and shared commitment to improving people’s lives. It’s a great investment.” In addition to the partnership between Mercy Medical Center and Live Well Springfield, Trinity Health has selected community partnerships in New Jersey, Illinois, Maryland, Idaho, and New York for participation in TCI. All of these programs will focus specifically on policy, system, and environmental changes that can directly impact identified areas of high local need and which can reduce tobacco use and obesity, leading drivers of preventable chronic diseases and high healthcare costs in the U.S.

Lee Bank Announces Alliance with St. Germain

LEE — Lee Bank President and CEO Chuck Leach announced that Lee Bank and St. Germain Investment Management have entered into a strategic alliance called October Mountain Financial Advisors, by which St. Germain will provide investment-management and financial-planning services to Berkshire County clients from its new offices in Lee. “Lee Bank is thrilled to offer a Berkshire County-focused wealth-management platform staffed with Berkshire residents who care deeply about their customers and community,” said Leach. “We’re extremely pleased to join forces with St. Germain Investment Management as we embark on this new endeavor. Furthermore, with our recently granted trust powers, we look forward to working closely with attorneys, CPAs, and our clients on trust and estate-planning matters right here in Berkshire County. We have long considered tackling the wealth-management space because it’s a natural extension of what we do extremely well — building strong relationships with our customers and community. It is logical for us to be working with St. Germain given their deep bench of talented investment professionals, most of whom I have worked closely with in the past, and their commitment to remaining independent and committed to our same core values.” Prior to being named president and CEO of Lee Bank last July, Leach served as senior vice president/managing director of wealth management and chief investment officer at Berkshire Bank Wealth Management. Previous positions include vice president/senior portfolio manager at TD Bank Wealth Management Group and vice president of the Gilder Technology Group and the Telecosm Fund. According to Tim Suffish, senior vice president and head of equities at St. Germain Investment Management, “we place the highest value on client relationships and locally made investment decisions, whether it’s a family’s nest egg or a nonprofit’s endowment. We believe that October Mountain Financial Advisors is well-positioned to avoid the conflicts of interest, persistent fee increases, and key person risks inherent with most investment options available today. As a long-time resident of Pittsfield, I’m thrilled to bring our highly qualified team to the Berkshire community.” Along with Suffish, October Mountain Financial Advisors’ principal team includes St. Germain Investment Management’s Michael Matty, president and director; Richard Bleser, vice president, portfolio manager; Matthew Farkas, vice president, portfolio manager; and Thaddeus Welch, portfolio manager. October Mountain Financial Advisors is now open for business at the bank’s branch in Lee and at St. Germain’s offices in Springfield and Hartford, Conn. October Mountain’s permanent headquarters will be located at 103 West Park St., adjacent to Lee Bank, and is slated to open in the spring following renovations to the building.

Waterfront Tavern Re-opens in Holyoke

HOLYOKE — Earlier this month, the Waterfront Tavern held a grand re-opening event at its newly renovated facility on Main Street, featuring Damn Yankee BBQ. Events slated for the restaurant and nightclub include concerts, dancing, and comedy. Private events can be booked in one of the three banquet rooms, with capacities ranging from 50 to 300 people. “Holyoke is a great spot to set up shop. We’re thrilled to be part of such a committed group of impassioned business owners,” owner Don Robert said. “The ease of obtaining the required permits went way above my expectations. This is definitely a business-friendly city.” Robert, one of the partners at the Waterfront Tavern, has been in the restaurant business since he was 14, starting at Lacroix’s, his family-owned business in Willimansett. He is the owner of Maximum Capacity in Chicopee, which he acquired in 2004. Waterfront Tavern’s restaurant partner is Rich Davieau, owner of Damn Yankee BBQ, a full-service barbeque catering company that has been in business, developing its own barbeque rubs and sauces, since 2010.

Taylor Street Dental Offers Free Lunch at Hot Table

SPRINGFIELD — In a new campaign, Taylor Street Dental is offering patients a voucher for a free meal at Hot Table restaurants when they make an appointment. “For a lot of people, it’s hard to make time in their schedule for a dental appointment,” said Dr. David Peck, owner of Taylor Street Dental. “We thought we’d make their lives a little easier, in case they had to skip breakfast or miss their lunch break to come in.” Peck established his practice on Worthington Street 30 years ago. In 2015, he moved to the historic Stacy Building on Taylor Street. He completely refurbished the building with the latest state-of-the-art technology and equipment, in addition to adding new dentists and associates. “John Devoie from Hot Table and I are both committed to investing in Springfield and helping the city thrive,” Peck said. “Their Tower Square location is very popular with downtown businesspeople and local neighborhood folks, the same people who make up a large part of my patient base. This promotion is designed to make everyone happy.” Patients must mention the Hot Table offer while making their appointment in order to claim the gift card when they come in. The gift card has a $20 value.

Big Y Announces Make-A-Wish Promotion

SPRINGFIELD — In honor of its 80th Anniversary, Big Y Foods has partnered with Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island, inviting customers to purchase ‘Wish Stars’ in checkout lines at all 61 Big Y World Class markets, including at 30 stores in Massachusetts. Stars cost $1 each, and customers are welcome to write their name on their star for display in their store. Funds raised through the sale of Wish Stars in Massachusetts throughout March will help grant wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions throughout the Big Y communities. On Thursday, March 17, Big Y will match all Wish Star purchases and any additional donations up to $8,000.

Columbia Gas Recognizes 75th Anniversary of USO of Pioneer Valley

SPRINGFIELD — Columbia Gas of Massachusetts has supported the USO of Pioneer Valley in its efforts to keep military families together. This year, as the USO celebrates its 75th anniversary, Columbia Gas continues its tradition by gifting the USO $2,500 in support of its programs for 2016. According to the United Service Organizations (USO), America’s 1.3 million active-duty service members receive an estimated annual total of 10 million acts of connection from USO centers, services, and volunteers. The Pioneer Valley USO, located at the Westover Air Reserve Base, is one of those centers that has made a significant difference. “Columbia Gas is proud to support the work of the Pioneer Valley USO, which provides an abundance of services to hundreds of families it serves from all branches of the military. As a company that actively recruits and employs veterans, we feel privileged to work with organizations such as the USO that focus on our military men and women as well as their families,” said Andrea Luppi, manager of Communications and Community Relations. Added Allan Tracy, executive director of the Pioneer Valley USO, said the organization “is extremely thankful for the continued support from Columbia Gas. This partnership over many years has helped the Pioneer Valley USO continually meet the ever-changing needs of our local military and their families.”

People on the Move

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Departments People on the Move

Attorney Kenneth Albano

Bacon Wilson announced that Attorney Kenneth Albano will assume the role of Managing Shareholder, effective Jan. 1, 2017. For the remainder of 2016, he will share the role with Bacon Wilson’s current managing shareholder, Stephen Krevalin, who has led the firm for the past 15 years, during which time Bacon Wilson has become one of the largest regional, full-service law firms in Hampden and Hampshire counties. “I am thrilled at the choice of attorney Albano as my successor,” Krevalin said. “Ken was the unanimous choice among the shareholders, and I have every confidence that he will do a phenomenal job as the firm’s next managing shareholder.” Albano is a senior partner and a member of the firm’s corporate, commercial, and municipal practice groups. In addition to his legal practice, he is active in the community, chairing the board of the March of Dimes Western Mass Division and serving on the board of the New England Chapter of the March of Dimes. He is a board member with Behavioral Health Network, where he has served for over 20 years. He also works with the American Cancer Society, Make-A-Wish, and the ALS Assoc. Last June, Albano was honored with the Massachusetts Bar Assoc. Community Service Award in recognition of his volunteer work. Bacon Wilson, P.C. boasts total of 43 lawyers and approximately 60 paralegals, administrative assistants, and support staff. The firm’s offices are located in Springfield, Northampton, Amherst, Holyoke, and Westfield. For more information, visit www.baconwilson.com.

•••••

Elyse Merrigan

Sevane Khatchadourian

Mila Renkas

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) announced the hiring of three new associates: Elyse Merrigan, MSA, Sevane Khatchadourian, and Mila Renkas.
• Merrigan is an Associate in the Tax department. She previously held a career as a trial paralegal with a regional law firm. However, based on her strong aptitude with numbers, she decided to pursue the necessary advanced education that would allow her to transition into the field of public accounting. She is a graduate of the Commonwealth College at UMass Amherst and recently earned her master’s degree in accounting from Western New England University. She joined the Mass. Society of Certified Public Accountants (MSCPA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) as a student during her graduate studies and is currently a candidate to sit for the CPA exam.
• Khatchadourian is beginning her career in public accounting in the Audit and Accounting (A&A) practice at MBK. As an A&A Associate, she will help service a wide variety of A&A clients throughout the year. She graduated from Westfield State University in 2015 with a bachelor’degree in business management with a concentration in accounting, and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in accounting at the same school. As a current graduate student, Sevane is a student member of the MSCPA and AICPA.
• Renkas, who is also an A&A Associate, brings five years of bookkeeping experience and fluency in three languages to her new position. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Elms College in 2015 and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in accounting at Westfield State University. She has been recognized for her significant academic achievements though her membership with various honors societies and scholarships, including the Western Mass Women magazine scholarship.

•••••

Stuart Jones

Springfield College announced the hiring of Stuart Jones as Vice President for Enrollment Management, effective April 1. An enrollment-management professional in higher education for more than 20 years, Jones was vice president for Enrollment Management at Trine University in Angola, Ind. since 2013. Prior to that role, he was vice president for Enrollment Management at Averett University in Danville, Va. and dean of Enrollment and executive director of the Student Success Center at Manchester University in North Manchester, Ind. At Springfield College, Jones will work to further strengthen the college’s competitive position through enrollment growth in traditional undergraduate and graduate programs. He has a bachelor’s degree in interpersonal and public communications from Purdue University, a master’s degree in divinity and theology from the Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, and a Ph.D. in higher education leadership from Northcentral University in Prescott Valley, Ariz.

•••••

Toby Grader

Bob Pion Buick GMC recently welcomed Toby Grader to the team. Grader has worked in the auto industry for more than 25 years and is a GM certified service manager. He took time off to open his own restaurant, but is now excited to start a new chapter at Bob Pion Buick GMC. “I enjoy the challenge of working in the auto industry. Helping people find the car of their dreams and making them happy is very rewarding,” he said. “Being in the auto industry for over 25 years, you make a lot of friendships. It makes the hard work worthwhile.”

•••••

Jennifer Butler

Attorney Jennifer Butler has joined Royal, P.C., the management-side only labor and employment law firm, and will focus her practice in labor law and complex employment litigation. With her experience, Butler counsels companies on the multitude of state and federal employment laws impacting them, including employment discrimination and harassment, wage-and-hour law, disability and leave law, workplace safety, OSHA, affirmative action, and contract negotiations. Her other preventive work includes drafting employee manuals; preparing non-disclosure, non-solicitation, and non-compete agreements; and conducting management training. Butler is a graduate of Norwich University and Western New England University School of Law.

•••••

Monson Savings Bank (MSB) announced the following:
• Kylie LaPlante has been promoted to branch manager of the bank’s Ware office. She began her career at Monson Savings in 2011 as a customer service associate in Wilbraham and quickly rose to customer service associate supervisor. In 2015, she moved to the Ware branch as assistant branch manager and now to branch manager. She is a graduate of Assumption College with a bachelor’s degree in business management;
• Clare Ladue has been promoted to Commercial Loan Officer. Ladue, formerly one of MSB’s retail banking officers, has more than 20 years of experience in banking. She is a graduate of the Mass Bankers New England School of Financial Studies, holds numerous professional certifications, and is active in several community organizations.

•••••

Keith Nesbitt

Keith Nesbitt has joined the Springfield office of NUVO Bank as Regional Commercial Credit Officer. Nesbitt, joins NUVO, a division of Merchants, bringing a vast wealth of knowledge with 11 years of experience in commercial lending, portfolio management, and credit administration in regional and community banking institutions. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Georgia, his master’s degree from Georgia State University, and his MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management. He is also a candidate for the chartered financial analyst (CFA) designation and will sit for the CFA Level III exam in June. Nesbitt is a high-school and college football official and a member of the Western Massachusetts Football Officials Assoc. and the Eastern Assoc. of Intercollegiate Football Officials.

•••••

Margo Jones

The 2016 Jury of Fellows from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) elevated 149 AIA members to its prestigious College of Fellows, an honor awarded to members who have made significant contributions to their profession. Margo Jones, principal of Jones Whitsett Architects (formerly Margo Jones Architects), was nominated and elected to the College of Fellows in recognition of her leadership in the field and her service to the communities of Western Mass. Jones, who holds a master’s degree in architecture from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, has practiced architecture in Greenfield for more than 30 years. As principal of her own design firm since 1984, she has designed numerous award-winning schools, public projects, and significant historic-preservation projects, including Sanderson Academy in Ashfield, several projects at the Bement School in Old Deerfield, renovations to the Ted Shawn Dance Theater at Jacob’s Pillow in Becket, and, most recently, the renovation of Colegrove Park Elementary School in North Adams, a project currently being considered for a Massachusetts Historic Commission Preservation Award. Jones has also served on the board of directors of the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Architects, and the board of directors of the Western Mass. chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Out of a total AIA membership of nearly 88,000, fewer than 3,200 members are distinguished with the honor of fellowship. Jones will be honored at an investiture ceremony at the AIA convention in Philadelphia in May.

•••••

J. Polep Distribution Services announced the promotion of Eric Polep to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Polep has been with the company since 2002, most recently as director of sales. Over the past 14 years, he has worked his way up through the company, working in warehouse-control positions, cutting and stamping cigarettes, warehouse inventory, and as equipment delivery representative, field sales representative, and district manager. He has also played a key role in building and transforming J. Polep’s technology marketing and sales capabilities, in the process simplifying store managers’ everyday duties.

•••••

Name Net Worth announced the hiring of Pam Thornton as Chief Operating Officer. Thornton has had an extensive career in the human-resources field, beginning in 1996 with LEGO Systems Inc. in Enfield, Conn. There, she was able to acquire hands-on experience with recruitment, interviewing, and training of year-round and part-time field personnel. Additionally, she was responsible for employee relations, benefits administration, and staff performance management. She also served in a management role with K2 Sports, where she hired a field merchandising staff of 100 employees. She was also business development manager for United Personnel, a woman-owned staffing firm in Springfield, and most recently served as a member of the HR legal team with the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast. Name Net Worth, a startup app launched by Jeremy Casey and currently in beta testing, is a connective platform that leverages trusted relationships to measure and strengthen personal and professional networks, allowing the ability to measure the success of connections and easily manage follow-ups. The company was accepted to the Valley Venture Mentors accelerator program and has received investment capital. Thornton serves on the board of directors for the Human Resources Management Assoc. of Western New England and leads its membership effort. She is a past president and served on the board of directors for the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield. She has also held her Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the Society for Human Resource Management since 2003.

•••••

Cumulus Springfield announced that Bridget Lynott is back in radio and on 94.7 WMAS weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. She is also the promotion director for 94.7 WMAS and 1450 WHLL. “I’ve been in love with music for as long as I can remember … that love of music brought me to radio,” said Lynott, whose previous stints on the region’s airwaves include time at 1250 WARE, 560 WHYN, and 97.9 WPKX. “Growing up a shy kid, it was a shock for others to hear me on the air … but like an actor that delivers lines every night without fear, radio is my stage, and I love it. It is such an exciting time to be back on the air in the Springfield market and working with an incredible team.”

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Chamber Corners Departments

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• March 31: Margarita Madness, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Hadley Farms Meeting House, 41 Russell St., Hadley. Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at TD Bank on Triangle Street or Greenfield Savings Bank on University Drive, as well as the chamber office. You must be over age 21 to participate. With questions about participating or sponsoring, call the chamber office at (413) 253-0700.

• April 7: Amherst Area Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., Courtyard by Marriott, 423 Russell St., Hadley. Guest speakers include Ginny Hamilton, a pain specialist, yoga instructor, and Reiki practitioner with a multi-faceted approach teaching people how to release pain, realize habits causing pain, and revitalize healthy habits for painless living; and Brandon Wawrzonek, a Strides Human Performance Institute coach specializing in holistic fitness, functional movement training, sport performance, and injury prevention for athletes of all ages and abilities. Whether your concern is workplace productivity, athletic performance, or personal comfort, pain prevention strategies are a worthwhile investment. Cost: $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m.

• April 13: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., Hillside Pizza, 173 Russell St., Hadley. Beer tasting provided by White Lion Brewing Co., the first craft brewery in Springfield. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

EAST OF THE RIVER FIVE TOWN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.erc5.com
(413) 575-7230

• April 14: Lunch & Learn, noon to 1:30 p.m., Crestview Country Club, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Co-hosted with West of the River Chamber of Commerce. This educational event will teach you how taking advantage of solar energy might save your business money and how to take advantage of available tax credits and incentives. Cost: $35 for both members and non-members. Cost includes buffet lunch.

• April 19: Feast in the East, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road, Longmeadow. Come sample dishes from area restaurants and have a chance to vote for the People’s Choice award. There will be ample time to mingle and network in a relaxed atmosphere. Silver spoon sponsor: the Republican. Restaurant sponsors: CMD Technology Group Inc., Freedom Credit Union, the Gaudreau Group, Glenmeadow Retirement Community, JGS Lifecare, Life Care Center of Wilbraham, NUVO, and Robert Charles Photography. Cost: $25 per person.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• March 25: March Breakfast Series, Greenfield Community College. Taxpayers, come to breakfast and learn how the state Auditor’s Office attempts to save dollars by investigating fraud and waste in state government. Auditor Suzanne Bump will present a program and explain the value of her office. Sponsored by Freedom Credit Union and Franklin County CDC. Cost: $13 for chamber members prepaid or at the door, $14 for chamber members billed, $16 for general admission.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• April 20: April Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members.

• April 21: Mornings with the Mayor, 8-9 a.m., Polish National Credit Union, 46 Main St., Chicopee. Free for all chamber members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• April 29: Legislative Luncheon, noon, Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. The Greater Easthampton and Holyoke chambers are partnering once again on this event; stay tuned for details. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• March 23: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted and sponsored by Marcotte Ford, 1025 Main St., Holyoke. Food, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• April 12: Table Top Expo 2016: Let’s Get Down to Business, 4:30-7 p.m., Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. With four area chambers, 180 businesses, and hundreds of visitors, sponsoring the Table Top Expo has consistently been a premier networking and marketing tool for the region’s business community. Another sell-out event is expected. Exhibitor tables are $150 and are exclusive to chamber members. To register or for more information, e-mail [email protected].

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• April 7: Northampton Chamber Monthly Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m., Yankee Candle Village, South Deerfield. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can. A casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Sponsors: Greenfield Community College Foundation, Freedom Credit Union, and Pioneer Saab Volvo. Cost: $10 for members.

• April 22: Workshop: “Waste Reduction & Energy Efficiency,” 9:30-11 a.m., Center for EcoTechnology, 320 Riverside Dr., Northampton. Waste reduction and energy-efficiency upgrades can save your business money. This workshop will cover incentives, benefits, and options to green your business. Learn from case studies of other local businesses that have started waste-diversion programs or installed energy-efficiency improvements. RSVP required, and space is limited. To register, contact Cate Foley at [email protected] or (413) 586-7350, ext. 240.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• March 21: “Marketing to Millennials” Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Presented by MassLive: Michael Burnham, sales manager; Megan Downey, regional training manager; and Brandon Farrell, account executive. Attendees will learn about how digital targeting works, sponsored content online, YouTube commercials, and social-media marketing. Light refreshments will be served. Cost: free for chamber members, $30 for non-members. To register, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618

• March 22: Small Business Legal Clinic, noon to 4 p.m., Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, 16 North Elm St., Westfield. Sponsored by the Western Mass. regional office of the MSBDC. Free to chamber members only. Seating is limted. To register, call Lynn Shedd at (413) 737-6712, ext. 100.

• March 25: Legislative Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m, Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Legislators attending include state Sen. Don Humason and state Reps. Nicholas Boldyga, Peter Kocot, William Pignatelli, and John Velis. This event will provide members a great opportunity to bring their business concerns and issues to their state delegation. Gold sponsor: WSBK 89.5 FM at Westfield State University. Small business sponsor: Liptak Emergency Water Removal. Cost: $30 for chamber members, $40 for the general public (paid in advance). Call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 for more information and to register.

• April 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Event is free and open to the public. To register, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• April 13: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., Betts Plumbing & Heating Supply, 14 Coleman Ave., Westfield. Refreshments will be served. Bring a business card and make connections. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members (cash). To register, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• April 18: “The Painkiller Epidemic: Legal Implications of Prescription Drug Use in the Workplace,” 8:30-10 a.m., Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Prescription drug use in the workplace is on the rise. From an employer’s perspective, employees who are abusing prescription medication tend to be less productive, less reliable, prone to absenteeism, a greater safety risk, and create unnecessary costs, burdens, and liabilities to the company. Royal, P.C. will present an informational seminar that will address some of the most common areas employers express uncertainty and concern about, including maintaining a safe workplace, enforcing drug-free workplace policies and conducting drug testing, and the risk of disability-discrimination claims. Light refreshments will be served. Cost: free for chamber members, $30 for non-members.

• April 26: Sixth annual Southwick Home & Business Show, 4:30-7 p.m., Southwick Town Hall, 454 College Highway. The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce is once again partnering with the Southwick Economic Development Commission on this tabletop event to promote Southwick businesses. Cost to display: $25 per business (Southwick businesses only). Registration form and payment due by April 11. The event is free and open to the public. Questions can be e-mailed to [email protected], or leave a message at (413) 304-6100.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER

www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• April 12: Professional Women’s Chamber Ladies Night, 5-7 p.m., Added Attractions, 180 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow. An evening of networking, complimentary wine, and refreshments. Reservations are free but required by e-mailing Debra Chamberland at [email protected].

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• March 22: Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 8-9 a.m., TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Featuring Attorney General Maura Healey. Cost: $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• April 6: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Featuring the ever-popular Mayor’s Forum with Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Easthampton Mayor Karen Cadieux, and West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt. A personal and humorous discussion moderated by Western Mass News anchor Dave Madsen. Sponsored by United Personnel and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• April 13: Speed Networking @ Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., La Quinta Inns and Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Make up to 50 contacts in an hour in this round-robin networking format. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• April 14: Springfield Regional Chamber Leadership Institute Graduation, 6-9 p.m., Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield. Cost: $40 per person. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• April 27: Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Massachusetts State House. Co-hosted by state Sen. James Welch and state Rep. Angelo Puppolo Jr. Day-long opportunity to meet with members of the Baker-Polito administration and the Massachusetts delegation. Sponsored by Comcast and WWLP-TV 22, presented in partnership with the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce, and supported by the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce. Cost: $180 per person, which includes continental breakfast, transportation, lunch, reception, and all materials. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• April 6: Wicked Wednesday networking event, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Stitches & Ink/From the Red Tees, 128 Myron St., West Springfield. Register online at www.ourwrc.com.

Agenda

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Agenda Departments

Outlook 2016

March 29: Gov. Charlie Baker will serve as the keynote speaker at the Springfield Regional Chamber’s Outlook 2016 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. He made his first major address to the business community at the chamber’s annual event in 2015. Presented by Health New England, Outlook is the area’s largest legislative event, attracting more than 700 guests and presenting expert speakers on local, state, and federal issues. The event is sponsored by Eastern States Exposition, MassMutual Financial Group, United Personnel, and MGM Springfield; program/reception sponsors Sisters of Providence Health System, Comcast, Eversource, and the Republican; with support from Chicopee Savings Bank and BusinessWest, and presented in in partnership with the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce (ERC5). Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito have set their sights on addressing some of the Commonwealth’s greatest long-term challenges, including reducing family energy costs and improving the reliability of the energy grid through hydro- and solar-power legislation; lifting the charter-school cap; securing a 50% increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC); and curbing the opioid epidemic’s grip on Massachusetts families. Baker will be joined in the program by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, who will remark on events at the federal level, including his insight into activities on Capitol Hill, the presidential race, and front-burner issues facing Congress in the coming months. “As a senior member of the powerful House Committee on Ways and Means and ranking member of its Select Revenue Measures subcommittee, Congressman Neal serves in a critically important capacity in Washington for our area, our state, and the entire country,” said chamber President Jeffrey Ciuffreda. Tickets are $50 for Springfield Regional Chamber members and ERC5 members, and $70 for general admission. Reserved tables of 10 are available. Reservations must be made by Friday, March 18 by visiting www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected]. No walk-ins will be accepted, and no cancellations will be accepted once the reservation deadline has passed.

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Tickets cost $60, and tables of 10 are available. To reserve a spot, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, or visit HERE. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. This year’s class was profiled in the Jan. 25 issue, and their stories can also be read HERE. They include Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.; Mike Balise, Balise Motor Sales, philanthropist (1965-2015); Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties; Bay Path University President Carol Leary; and John Robison, president, J.E. Robison Service. Difference Makers is sponsored by EMA Dental, First American Insurance Agency, Health New England, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., Northwestern Mutual, PeoplesBank, Royal LLP, and Sunshine Village.

‘Training for the Digital Marketplace’

April 1, 8, 15: Stevens 470 will host a three-week program called “Training for the Digital Marketplace: Develop Your Online and Offline Marketing Strategies” to show attendees how to maximize their marketing channels. This seminar is for business owners, marketing managers, entrepreneurs, and key marketing staff. As marketing channels continue to evolve, are you using them to maximize your business opportunities? This program covers the latest online and offline marketing channels including brand presentation, websites, SEO, advertising, social media, e-mail, and mobile technologies. During this hands-on program, participants will review their current messaging and marketing channels; learn the latest ways to use both traditional and new media channels; explore social media, online advertising, and search-engine optimization; outline plans for offline and online marketing campaigns; coordinate marketing channels to maximize their effectiveness; and determine methods for evaluating results. Each participant will complete the program by creating a specific plan for their online and offline channels that they can share and put into action with members of their business team. The program meets weekly on three consecutive Friday mornings at Stevens 470 in Westfield. Limited space is available. For details, visit stevens470.com or call (413) 568-2660.

Service of Remembrance

April 3: Baystate Children’s Hospital will hold its annual Service of Remembrance for area families who have experienced the death of a child over the past year. All family member and friends are invited to attend the event, which will be held at 1 p.m. at Baystate Medical Center’s Chestnut Conference Center on 759 Chestnut St., Springfield. It is also open to families with losses prior to 2015. Baystate Children’s Hospital staff will be in attendance at the event to remember and pay tribute to the children and families who were under their care. Families are asked to respond by March 23 with the number of adults and children planning to attend the event, as well as their child’s name, if they would like it to be read aloud during the service. Families with earlier losses are simply asked to call and register. To respond, call Deborah Levine at (413) 794-3283. The special service will include readings, music, and a ceremony of light. Families can share a photograph or other memento of their child on a ‘Table of Memories’ at the event. They may also choose to have their child’s name read aloud during the Memorial Service, regardless of whether they can attend the event. As part of the service, families will be given a piece of fabric which they can personalize in memory of their child before it is added, along with others, to create a memory quilt. The new quilt will be displayed on Oct. 1, along with 17 other quilts created in past years, at Baystate’s annual Memorial Quilt Exhibit.

‘A Night of Passion’ for Link to Libraries

April 5: They’re calling the event “A Night of Passion.” That’s a phrase that applies to both support for efforts to promote childhood literacy and a fondness for a particular food or beverage. These various passions will come together April 5 at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke at Link to Libraries’ biennial fund-raising event. Proceeds from all ticket sales will go to Link to Libraries. More than 500 people are expected to attend the event, which will be a celebration of all that Link to Libraries has accomplished since it was created in 2008 — including the donation of nearly 500,000 books to area schools and organizations — and how it intends to continually expand its mission in the years to come. As for those passions for specific foods and drinks, they will be a focus of the night, provided by a host of area celebrities and business leaders, including Mike Mathis, MGM Springfield president and chief operating officer; Kevin Rhodes, Springfield Symphony Orchestra conductor; Spiros Hatiras, Holyoke Medical Center president and CEO; Delcie Bean IV, CEO of Paragus Strategic IT; Mick Corduff, executive chef and co-owner of the Log Cabin; Amy Royal, founding partner of Royal, P.C., and many more. As for their passions, well, those are carefully guarded secrets at this point. Those who would like to experience these passions and support Link to Libraries — which supplies books to schools and other organizations across Western Mass. and Northern Conn., and promotes read-alouds that put area business and civic leaders in area classrooms — can buy tickets for $40 each by sending checks to: Link to Libraries, Attn. Karen Blinderman, P.O. Box 958, West Springfield, MA 01090. All beverages are included in the ticket price. Food and beverages are donated by the Log Cabin. Sponsors for “A Night of Passion” include lead sponsors Health New England and Rediker Software, and event sponsors Bacon Wilson, Bank of America – U.S. Trust, the Frank Stanley Beveridge Foundation, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, James Vinick and Moors & Cabot Investments, Monson Savings Bank, PeoplesBank, Peoples United Bank, the Springfield Falcons, and United Bank.

‘Poets for Life: Poets Respond to AIDS’

April 9: Patrick Donnelly, 2015-17 poet laureate of Northampton, will host “Poets for Life: Poets Respond to AIDS,” a benefit reading in support of A Positive Place (formerly AIDS Care/Hampshire County), a nonprofit organization providing a wide array of services for people with HIV in Hampshire and surrounding counties. The event will be held at 3 p.m. at the Paradise Room, Conference Center, Smith College, 51 College Lane, Northampton. The Northampton Council for the Arts and the Poetry Center at Smith College are co-sponsors of the benefit. Tickets for the event are $20 and may be purchased online at poetsforlife.brownpapertickets.com, or by phone at (800) 838-3006, ext. 1, or at the door at the event. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit A Positive Place. Those unable to attend the event can designate a tax-deductible donation through poetsforlife.brownpapertickets.com to make it possible for one of A Positive Place’s clients to attend. Poets for Life will feature readings by award-winning poets Eduardo C. Corral, Patrick Donnelly, Michael Klein, and Joan Larkin, who will read not only from their own poetry about the epidemic, but from the work of other notable poets, living and dead. Singer-songwriter Laura Wetzler will also perform. Since 1991, A Positive Place has been providing comprehensive, confidential case management and health-related support services, filling life-saving needs for people living with HIV/AIDS in the county. Anyone living with HIV or AIDS is eligible for services regardless of level of need, health status, or ability to pay. Services are free to people living with HIV.

Not Just Business as Usual

April 14: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event, a networking event for business leaders in Western Mass., will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The event, now in its seventh year, is a celebration of innovative thinking giving participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and keynote speakers to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This year, NJBAU will host a discussion of diversity in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields with panelists Emily Reichert, CEO of Greentown Labs; Laurie Leshin, president of Worcester Polytechnic Institute; and Frank Robinson, vice president of Public Health and Community Relations for Baystate Health. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $175 each, and sponsorships begin at $2,500 for a table for 10. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC’s director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause

April 30: Registration is now open for Baystate Noble Hospital’s 32nd annual 5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause, being held at Stanley Park in Westfield. The race begins at 9 a.m., with registration from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. near the Children’s Pavilion. The Baystate Noble 5K is a competitive, 3.1-mile road race through Stanley Park and surrounding areas for all levels of runners, from the novice to the serious athlete. Early registration is encouraged. The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $35 through April 29 (seniors 60 and older are $25). The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $40 on April 30 ($30 for seniors). Children 12 and under participate free when accompanied by a paying adult. T-shirts in various sizes are available to registrants on a first-come, first-served basis while inventory is available. To register online, download registration materials, and read general information, visit baystatenoblehospital.org/5k. Sponsorship and vendor table opportunities are also available. For more information, visit baystatenoblehospital.org/5k or contact the Community Development Office at [email protected] or (413) 568-2811, ext. 5520.

Walk of Champions

May 1: The community is invited to come together at the Quabbin Reservoir to mark the 11th annual Walk of Champions to benefit the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware. The walk is a one-mile loop that allows walkers to choose the number of miles they complete among the comfortable walking terrain of the Goodnough Dike. Along the way, walkers will enjoy entertainment and refreshments, along with the peace and beauty of the Quabbin Reservoir. Since its inception, the Walk of Champions has raised more than $662,000. All funds raised remain local to support those cared for in the Baystate Health Eastern Region at Baystate Medical Center’s Mary Lane Satellite Unit and for things such as family-support counseling, educational outreach, pastoral care, medications, state-of-the-art equipment, and the Healing Garden located in the courtyard of the hospital. Overlooking the Healing Garden is the oncology suite, which provides access to comprehensive cancer care, clinical trials, and a multi-disciplinary team approach to cancer care. Pledge forms, fund-raising resources, giving opportunities, and more are available at www.baystatehealth.org/woc for businesses, community organizations, and individuals who wish to participate.

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. An independent panel of judges has chosen the winners, and their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. Tickets — which cost $65 per person, with reserved tables of 10 available — are going very quickly. To order, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

Court Dockets

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

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.

GREENFIELD DISTRICT COURT

Andrew Santiago v. Target Corp.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of entryway and doors: $13,457.28
Filed: 2/11/16

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

Lori Jose v. Munich Haus Inc. and Center Group
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing bodily injury: $44,500
Filed: 1/25/16

Sherquita Thomas v. Ambiance HR & Laser Center
Allegation: Negligence during laser treatment causing permanent scarring to face: $400,000
Filed: 2/10/16

TD Bank v. Sandy Bay Service Center Inc., John P. Porter, and Cathy L. Porter
Allegation: Non-payment on promissory note: $114,332.68
Filed: 1/29/16

PALMER DISTRICT COURT

Waniewski Irrevocable Reality Trust and Karen White, Trustee v. DB Properties, LLC, Daniel Branco, and Elizabeth Branco
Allegation: Breach of purchase and sale agreement: $14,000
Filed: 2/29/16

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT

Kamp USA Inc. v. Salisbury Sales Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $19,469.50
Filed: 2/22/16

San Mar Corp. v. Joshua Kelsey d/b/a Design the Line Custom Clothing
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $7,968.57
Filed: 2/22/16

Tiffany Nugent v. F.P.S. Inc.
Allegation: Negligence in preparation and sale of food at Burger King causing broken teeth: $23,103
Filed: 2/26/16

U.S. Food Inc. v. Fondue Fusion Inc., d/b/a Sticks & Stones, Anne Brensley, and Sandra Squillante
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,397.83
Filed: 1/19/16

WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT

Karen Johnson v. Johnson’s Painting Service
Allegation: Breach of contract and negligence in services rendered and quality of work: $5,588
Filed: 2/3/16

LM Payroll Services Inc. d/b/a Ryan Associates v. Yogi Brothers Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of services rendered: $5,687.30
Filed: 2/11/16

St. Luke’s Greek Orthodox Church v. O’Donnell Paving & Landscaping Inc.
Allegation: Negligence in work performance and breach of contract: $5,252.16
Filed: 2/8/16

Picture This

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Departments Picture This

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

Celebrate Springfield

DevelopSpringfield recently presented its fifth annual Celebrate Springfield dinner at the MassMutual Center.

Photos by Ed Cohen

This year, its Partner in Progress Award, recognizing the contributions of individuals toward revitalization in Springfield, was given to, (from left) Brian Connors, Springfield’s deputy director of Economic Development; Maureen Hayes, president of Hayes Development Services; and Ira Rubenzahl, president of Springfield Technical Community College

Vincent Maniaci, American International College; Mary Kay Wydra, Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau; Michelle Goldberg, Pioneer Valley Transit Authority; and Judy Matt, Spirit of Springfield

MassMutual-Table-at-Dinner

Some of the more than 500 attendees at the dinner

Smith & Wesson’s ‘Night of Laughter’ to Support Children’s Charities

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Smith & Wesson will host its annual live comedy show, “A Night of Laughter,” to support two local children’s charities, Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Ronald McDonald House. The event will be held on Saturday, April 30 at the Cedars Banquet Facility, 419 Island Pond Road in Springfield. The show will feature two comedians, Chris Zito and Tony V.

Zito is a mainstay of the Boston comedy scene and made appearances on Comedy Central, USA, A&E, and NESN. He has been heard on New England radio for more than 20 years, and currently “Zito and Kera” can be heard on weekday mornings on Mix 93.1. Tony V started his comedy career in 1982 in Boston. In 1986, he was named “Funniest Person in Massachusetts” by Showtime. He has also appeared on HBO, A&E, Comedy Central, and MTV. His big-screen performances include State and Main, Celtic Pride, Housesitter, One Crazy Summer, and Shakes the Clown.

The doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the comedy will begin at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and include an evening of laughs, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, raffles, and more. Tickets are now available at eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Elaine Stellato at (413) 747-3371 or [email protected].

Chamberlain Group, Berkshire Bank Honored by SBA

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Daily News

BOSTON — A handful of Bay State businesses were recently honored by the Small Business Administration (SBA) as part of National Small Business Week, including two Western Mass.-based companies.

The Chamberlain Group, LLC in Great Barrington, represented by Lisa Chamberlain, vice president and managing partner, was named Small Business Exporter of the Year. Meanwhile, Berkshire Bank, represented by Peter Rice, senior vice president, business banking, was recognized as Financial Services Champion.

“We are extremely excited to honor a truly amazing line up of small business owners and champions this year,” said Bob Nelson, SBA’s Massachusetts district director. “It is so important to recognize our small businesses in the Commonwealth, as they are the job creators, innovators, and the fabric of our local communities.”

This year, National Small Business Week will be celebrated May 1-7 with national events planned across the country. The slate of leading small businesses in the Commonwealth will be honored at the annual Small Business Week Awards Luncheon at the Doubletree in Westborough on Wednesday, May 4.

Harrison Design Associates Welcomes Mark Eichorn, Robert Viel Jr.

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Daily News

GREAT BARRINGTON — Robert Harrison, principal architect and founder of Harrison Design Associates, announced that Mark Eichorn and Robert Viel Jr. have joined the firm as both architectural designers and project managers.

“I am pleased to welcome Mark and Robert to our team. They each bring a wide range of experience in residential and commercial design and detailing,” said Harrison. “In their new positions, they will enhance and carry forward Harrison Design’s tradition of architectural innovation and our singular focus on creating structures that tell a story and that inspire, delight, and surprise our clients.”

Eichorn brings more than 20 years of experience in the design and building industry. His expertise encompasses all phases of work for residential and commercial architectural-design projects, from drafting and code compliance to design and construction administration. His prior experience as an architectural project manager includes eight years with Pamela Sandler AIA in Stockbridge and three years at William Caligari Interiors/Architecture in Great Barrington. He is a 1992 graduate of Vermont Technical College, where he studied architectural and building engineering technology.

Viel joins Harrison Design with more than 19 years of experience in the architectural and interior-design professions. He received his bachelor’s degree in 1999 from the Wentworth Institute of Technology’s School of Architecture in Boston. He most recently served for five years as sole designer/draftsman at Kohl Construction in Hadley, while also managing his own architectural-design studio in Springfield. Prior to that, he was employed for 10 years at Pamela Sandler AIA as senior designer, job captain, and draftsman.

Monson Savings Bank Promotes Kevin Hicks, Dina Merwin

By BusinessWest Staff March 22, 2016

Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank (MSB) announced that Kevin Hicks has been promoted to vice president, information technology officer, and Dina Merwin has been promoted to vice president, compliance and BSA officer.

Hicks joined MSB in early 2015 as assistant vice president, information technology officer. He has more than 16 years of experience managing a financial-institution IT department. He is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the bank’s technology infrastructure as well as security. He holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering with a minor in psychology from UMass.

Merwin began her career at MSB in June 2013 as a compliance officer and was quickly promoted to assistant vice president, compliance and BSA officer. She has more than 20 years of experience in community banking. She is responsible for coordinating all regulatory changes throughout the bank, improving processes that enhance efficiency and compliance, as well as ensuring adherence to all rules and regulations. She is a graduate of the ABA National School of Banking at Fairfield University.

“We have an incredible team here at Monson Savings,” said Steve Lowell, president of Monson Savings Bank. “I am very pleased to publicly congratulate Kevin and Dina on their well-deserved promotions.”

Greater Chicopee Chamber Hosts Bus Trip to New York City

By BusinessWest Staff March 21, 2016

Daily News

CHICOPEE — The Greater Chicopee Chamber will host a bus trip to New York City on Saturday, May 21.

Tripgoers will be on ther own in the city to take a tour, go shopping, see a show, or anything else. The bus will leave the chamber parking lot at 7 a.m. and return around 9:30 p.m. The cost is $55 per person. Seats can be purchased by calling (413) 594-2101.

Wistariahurst Hosts Oral History Workshop with Sam Redman

By BusinessWest Staff March 21, 2016

Daily News

HOLYOKE — As part of Wistariahurst’s spring workshop series, “Getting to the Stories,” Sam Redman, a professor in the UMass Oral History Lab, will introduce participants to the basics of oral-history interviewing on Monday, March 28, at 6 p.m. in the Wistariahurst Carriage House.

This workshop will explore several key questions: what is oral history? How does one conduct an oral-history interview? How is an oral-history project managed? What can one do with completed oral-history interviews? Those with a project in mind or just curious to learn more will find a starting point in this workshop. No prior experience in oral history is required, and the public is welcome. The fee is $7, or $5 for Wistariahurst members. Space is limited, so pre-registration at www.wistariahurst.org is recommended.

“This workshop is for all those who have heard someone tell a story about their past and thought, ‘someone should record that,’” said Holyoke City Historian Penni Martorell. “This workshop will give anyone the tools needed to make sure all the great stories in our families and communities are not lost.”

Redman is an assistant professor in the Department of History at UMass Amherst. He recently founded the UMass Oral History Lab, an initiative to bring together students, scholars, and communities to improve oral history projects of all kinds. Before coming to UMass, he served as lead interviewer for the Rosie the Riveter/World War II American Home Front Oral History Project, a partnership between the University of California and the National Park Service. He authored grants to launch new oral-history projects including the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge Oral History Project and the Japanese American Confinement Sites Oral History Project. His reviews and essays on oral history have appeared in Oral History Review, Western History Quarterly, and the New York Times.

Professional Women’s Chamber to Hold Ladies Night April 12

By BusinessWest Staff March 21, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Carol K’s Added Attractions, a women’s clothing boutique at 180 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow, will host the Professional Women’s Chamber bimonthly Ladies Night on Tuesday, April 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. The boutique offers personalized attention and affordable clothing and accessories for women of all ages.

Ladies Nights provide chamber members with opportunities to meet socially with other members after hours. Reservations are preferred and include complimentary beverages and refreshments. To reserve a spot, e-mail Debra Chamberland at [email protected].

Schneider Named Shareholder at Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy

By BusinessWest Staff March 21, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Michael Schneider has been named a shareholder at Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, P.C. His practice is focused on corporate law, mergers and acquisitions (including international business transactions), land use, and commercial real estate. He is a member of the Massachusetts and Connecticut bars.

Schneider is a past member of the Longmeadow Conservation Commission and past vice president and director of the Children’s Chorus of Springfield Inc. He was also a BusinessWest 40 Under Forty honoree in 2014 and a judge for the 40 Under Forty class of 2015. He earned his law degree, magna cum laude, from Suffolk University Law School in 2007. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Dickinson College in 1997.

Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, P.C. is one of the largest law firms in Western Mass., providing a wide range of legal services including litigation, corporate, probate, real estate, taxation, estate planning, and intellectual property law.

Baker-Polito Administration Elevates State Technology Office

By BusinessWest Staff March 18, 2016

Daily News

BOSTON — Gov. Charlie Baker recently announced changes to the state’s administration of technology services, establishing the role of executive director of MassIT, the state technology office, and elevating the position to report directly to the governor.

The changes come after an eight-month review of current practices across state government with an immediate focus on improving and upgrading how the Commonwealth’s citizens interact with key state systems over the internet. Mark Nunnelly, current commissioner of the Department of Revenue and special advisor to Baker for technology and innovation competitiveness, will begin as executive director of MassIT on April 4.

“As so much of our lives become increasingly digitized, it is important state government keep up with the daily needs of our constituents,” Baker said. “Information technology is an important priority for this administration, and our ability to provide secure essential services and execute projects in an efficient and fiscally responsible manner is key to a better state government for Massachusetts. This is an important step that not only addresses some of the problems we have, but is an essential way forward to a better future.”

The executive director of MassIT will lead an effort to revamp and improve how end users interact with the Commonwealth, from improving licensing to answering the latest questions on healthcare services, and help filing taxes. He will also focus on procuring services, managing projects using more readily available technology, and streamlining duplicative IT applications currently in place.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation Announces Grant Deadlines

By BusinessWest Staff March 18, 2016

Daily News

SHEFFIELD — Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation announced the second round of deadlines for competitive grants in 2016. Covering the period from April through June, the spring cycle of deadlines is open to regional nonprofits, students, schools, and community members.

The Wassermann-Streit Y’diyah Memorial Fund supports projects and programs that encourage people to learn about Judaism with an aim to dispel religious prejudice, bias, and intolerance. Grants of $500 will be awarded. Applications are due April 1.

The Fund for Williamstown’s DeMayo Bright Futures Innovation Award recognizes organizations, institutions, businesses, or individuals who are passionate about solving community challenges with innovative practices in Williamstown. The award recipient will receive $1,000. Nominations are due April 15.

Berkshire Taconic administers 30 individual scholarship funds for students in Berkshire County who plan to attend an accredited college, university, or graduate program. Scholarships generally range from $1,000 to $10,000 and support a variety of academic interests, including engineering, history, nursing, and more. Many scholarship funds offer annual grants to students throughout the course of their undergraduate or graduate careers, provided that the recipient continues to meet the fund’s requirements. All scholarship applications are due April 1, unless otherwise noted. To see a full list of Berkshire County scholarships, visit www.berkshiretaconic.org/berkshirescholarships.

Eight education enrichment funds will award grants to individual schools and school districts in Berkshire County this spring. Grants of up to $5,000 will support extracurricular projects to inspire and engage students: field trips, artists in residence, travel grants, robotics and nutrition programs, and more. Application deadlines are from April 1 to June 30. To see a full list of education enrichment funds and their deadlines, visit www.berkshiretaconic.org/berkshireeducationenrichment.

The William J. & Margery S. Barrett Public Service Award for Adams, Cheshire & Savoy celebrates individuals who make a significant contribution to the well-being of these towns through paid or volunteer work. Nominations are due May 1. The selected nominee will be allowed to designate a nonprofit organization to receive a cash award of $1,000 in his or her name.

For the grant-application process, visit www.berkshiretaconic.org/searchgrants. For the scholarship-application process, visit www.berkshiretaconic.org/searchscholarships.

MarketingWorks at Stevens 470 Announces Two Educational Programs

By BusinessWest Staff March 18, 2016

Daily News

WESTFIELD — MarketingWorks, a series of educational programs for business owners, marketing professionals, and entrepreneurs hosted by Stevens 470 in Westfield, announced two upcoming programs.

“Online and Offline Marketing Strategies” meets weekly for three Friday morings, April 1, 8, and 15. This program covers the latest online and offline marketing channels, including brand presentation, advertising, PR, web, social media, and mobile technologies. Participants in this group program will develop a plan to utilize the channels aimed at their target audience.

“Maximize Your Website for Business Growth” meets weekly for three Friday mornings, May 13, 20, and 27. Customers, prospects, and associates make an immediate assessment of a business based on the content of its website. Participants in this group program will evaluate their current website and clarify the steps needed to make it the company’s most valuable marketing channel.

For program details, visit www.stevens470.com/educational-programs.html or call Tina Stevens at (413) 568-2660.

Wayne Bates Joins Tighe & Bond’s Westwood Office

By BusinessWest Staff March 18, 2016

Daily News

WESTFIELD — Tighe & Bond recently hired Principal Engineer Wayne Bates to better serve its clients in the Greater Boston area. He will work out of the firm’s Westwood office.

Bates specializes in water and wastewater treatment technologies with a focus on industrial wastewater treatment, process improvement, waste minimization, EH&S compliance, and sustainable manufacturing strategies. He has almost 30 years of engineering and environmental, health, and safety consulting experience, and is also a certified Envision sustainability professional. He holds licenses in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island.

Bates is also an adjunct professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and serves on the board of directors for the Center for Business Sustainability at WPI. In addition, he serves on the town of Ashland’s sustainability and water-policy committees, and is a sustainability facilitator for the Associated Industries of Massachusetts.

“We are happy to welcome Wayne to our growing team of experts,” said David Pinsky, president and CEO of Tighe & Bond. “His expertise will benefit our Greater Boston-area clients greatly as they seek process improvements, EH&S compliance, and sustainable-manufacturing strategies.”

Bates earned his Ph.D in environmental/civil engineering from WPI. He also holds a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Northeastern University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from UMass Dartmouth.

BusinessWest Seeks Nominations for Continued Excellence Award

By BusinessWest Staff March 18, 2016

Daily News

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 is April 1 at 5 p.m., no exceptions.

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 at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40-under-forty-continued-excellence-award. For your convenience, a list of the past nine 40 Under Forty classes may be found at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40-under-forty-past-honorees.

Plainridge Park Performance Continues to Improve

By BusinessWest Staff March 17, 2016

Daily News

PLAINVILLE — Gambling revenue at Plainridge Park Casino jumped in February, the second consecutive monthly increase, the Boston Globe reported yesterday.

The slot parlor brought in $12.6 million last month, about $100,000 more than in January. On a daily basis, revenue rose nearly 8%, according to figures from the state Gaming Commission. Over the past two months, the casino’s revenue averaged $12.5 million, up from $11.5 million in November and December. A 12% increase in January followed five months of declining numbers since a strong opening early last summer.

Plainridge was expected to collect as much as $300 million in revenues in its opening year, but has fallen short of those projections, and is on pace to take in about $160 million for the year.

Bishop to Preside over Luncheon at Student Prince with Local Colleens

By BusinessWest Staff March 17, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Student Prince is a German institution, but that hasn’t stopped it from establishing a long-time St. Patrick’s Day tradition at the restaurant. The tradition continues today when Bishop Mitchell Rozanski will be on hand to preside over a blessed luncheon, beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Colleens from Springfield, Chicopee, Agawam, and Holyoke will be present at the ceremony. Members of the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band and the Brian Elliot Trio will provide music and entertainment.

The St. Patrick’s Day luncheon is part of a week-long celebration at the Fort. Tonight, Philadelphia’s famous Aqua String Band will begin its traditional march at the restaurant, and will be back on Friday, alongside the Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band, for an evening of revelry and live music. A special menu featuring Irish favorites will be served through Sunday.

“St. Patrick’s Day is a great week on Fort Street,” said Managing Partner Andy Yee. “You can really feel the energy and the history. We’re honored to have Bishop Rozanski and the Colleens here for this traditional event, and we’re looking forward to some great music as well.”

Springfield Regional Chamber Event to Feature Speed Networking

By BusinessWest Staff March 17, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Regional Chamber will hold its bimonthly Lunch n Learn with a new twist — speed networking — on Wednesday, April 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at La Quinta Inns & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield.

“We have had so much interest in our speed-networking events that we have added an additional event at lunch,” said Sarah Mazzaferro, member services director. “Participants have an opportunity to network during lunch and then really get down to the business of learning about each other and pitching their companies during the speed networking portion of the event.”

The core concept to speed networking is the ‘elevator speech,’ a short summary of an individual, business, organization, product, or service — a summary that a person could deliver in the time span of a short elevator ride. Attendees will be divided into two groups, seated across from each other. Each group member will have 60 seconds to give his or her elevator speech to the person seated directly across. Once each member has given their elevator speech, they will change seats, and the process will begin again with a new partner. The round-robin format of networking will continue until the event is over.

The event will begin with lunch at 11:30 a.m. To accommodate the event, no admittance will be allowed after noon, and lunch will no longer be served. Reservations cost $25 for members, $35 for general admission. Reservations must be made online and in advance at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or by contacting Mazzaferro at [email protected].

Cammer Cup at Amelia Park to Benefit Area Sled Hockey Teams

By BusinessWest Staff March 17, 2016

Daily News

WESTFIELD — The Western Mass Knights sled hockey teams will host the sixth annual Cammer Cup game at Amelia Park Arena, 21 South Broad St., Westfield, on Saturday, March 19, starting at 5 p.m.

The event will feature a celebrity face-off at 5 p.m. vs. the Western Mass Jr. Knights (18 and under), and at 6 p.m. the Western Mass Knights (adults) will take on the Charter Oak Men’s League team. The games celebrate the memory of the Knights’ late teammate Alex Camerlin. Tickets cost $10 each, and proceeds will benefit the Knights adult and junior sled-hockey programs.

“This is the event we mark on our calendars each year,” said Carole Appleton, executive director of Amelia Park Arena. “I knew Alex personally, and everyone misses him so much. This game gives the sled-hockey athletes the opportunity to show the community that they are so much more than a physically challenged team, that they are hockey athletes who work hard and want to win, just like Alex always did.”

The celebrity face-off game will feature local media and political celebrities getting in hockey sleds and experiencing the game first-hand against the Western Mass Jr. Knights team. The celebrities scheduled to appear include Shaggy (KIX 100.9), Bob Kester (Rock 102), Pat Kelly (Lazer 99.3), state Rep. John Velis, state Rep. Brian Ashe, and Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan.

According to the Northeast Sled Hockey League, sled hockey is the fast, exciting, rough-and-tumble version of ice hockey played primarily by people with lower-limb mobility impairments. The game is essentially the same as ‘stand-up’ ice hockey, the major difference being that the players use a sled with two hockey skate blades mounted under a seat. Among sports for disabled athletes, sled hockey is different because able-bodied athletes can play, and they have no advantage over disabled athletes.

The Knights and Junior Knights teams include players ranging in age from 8 to 63 on teams of both mixed gender and mixed ability. The junior team is organized by Disability Resources, a program of Center for Human Development (CHD), a nonprofit organization that delivers a broad array of critical social and mental-health services to more than 18,000 people each year in Western Mass. and Connecticut. Both teams are based out of Amelia Park Ice Arena.

Tickets for the sixth annual Cammer Cup game are available through local players, from CHD, and at the door the day of the event.

Luminance USA Makes Donation to Habitat for Humanity ReStore

By BusinessWest Staff March 17, 2016

Daily News

WESTFIELD — Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) and its ReStore in Westfield recently received a donation of lighting products from Luminance USA, headquartered in Commerce, Calif. The product will be used in GSHFH’s construction projects as well as sold at its ReStore retail outlet.

Products received include chandeliers, bathroom vanity lights, lightbulbs, wall sconces, ceiling-fan replacement parts, and table lamps, and are available for purchase at the Habitat ReStore located at 301 East Main St. in Westfield, with prices from 30% to 50% off regular retail prices.

“Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity and our ReStore in Westfield rely on the generous support of our partners such as Luminance to provide strength, stability, and self-reliance to our partner families through our home-ownership and home-preservation programs. We have made an investment in ourselves with the opening of our ReStore, and with the support of partners such as Luminance, we know it was worth it,” said Jennifer Schimmel, executive director of Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity.

GSHFH’s ReStore opened last April. Habitat for Humanity ReStores are nonprofit home-improvement stores and donation centers that sell new and gently used furniture, home accessories, building materials, and appliances to the public at a fraction of the retail price.

GCC Foundation Kicks Off 2016 Annual Campaign

By BusinessWest Staff March 16, 2016

Daily News

GREENFIELD — The Greenfield Community College Foundation’s 2016 annual campaign, Opening Doors to the Future, will kick off on March 31 with campaign co-chairs Rich Fahey and Nicole Fahey at the helm. Rich Fahey is returning as co-chair, while daughter-in-law Nicole is joining the campaign for the first time this year.

Greenfield Community College serves 5,500 students in five locations throughout Franklin and Hampshire counties. The 2016 campaign has established a goal of $825,000 by May 31 in support of students and programs at the college.

“Our nation’s higher-education system is increasingly replicating the great divide of our nation’s economic system. Social and economic mobility has all but disappeared — so too the middle class,” said GCC President Bob Pura. “But GCC, our foundation, alumni, and community have created a contradiction to that national narrative. We all help keep the doors to education and a better life open for all who are eager to work hard to achieve it.”

Rich Fahey, retired Advertising director for the Greenfield Recorder, noted that “many believe the cost of a higher education is becoming too expensive for many families. What we are doing in support of GCC is helping keep the doors open for all who come to the college to better themselves and enter into the middle class. I didn’t hesitate when I was asked to return for a third year helping out with the GCC Foundation annual campaign. My wife, daughter, and daughter-in-law are just a few whose lives were changed by GCC, and many generations into the future will continue to benefit from our work today.”

Nicole (Duprey) Fahey, a clinician at the Franklin County House of Corrections, enrolled at GCC at age 16 as an early-entrant student from Pioneer Valley Regional School in 2000, marking the start of a focused and accelerated educational journey from high-school sophomore to recipient of a master’s degree in just five years.

“My GCC experience laid the groundwork for a career that I love,” she said. “Everybody at the college — teachers and classmates — opened their doors and were so welcoming. And attending classes at GCC, with the range of ages and experiences each classmate represented, was humbling and inspiring. Witnessing their hard work to effect positive change encouraged me to direct my life’s work to helping do the same for others.”

For more information about the GCC Foundation and supporting the annual campaign, visit www.gcc.mass.edu/give or contact Regina Curtis, executive director of Resource Development and the GCC Foundation, at (413) 775-1600.

Country Bank Offers Scholarship Program

By BusinessWest Staff March 16, 2016

Daily News

WARE — Country Bank will honor 15 high-school seniors who exemplify a commitment to community spirit and volunteerism through its Country Bank for Higher Education Scholarship Program. Fifteen awards of $2,000 each will be presented to high-school seniors who will be attending a two- or four-year college in the fall.

Applications and complete rules are available at guidance offices of public high schools in the Country Bank market area, as well as at www.countrybank.com/about-us/community-scholarship-program, or at any of the bank’s 14 branches.

A selection committee will review each entry, and winners will be notified by mid-May. Any questions should be referred to Deb Gagnon, Corporate Relations officer, at [email protected] or (413) 277-2236.

Unemployment Falls from Year-ago Levels in Massachusetts

By BusinessWest Staff March 16, 2016

Daily News

BOSTON — Local unemployment rates in January went down in all 24 labor-market areas in the state compared to January 2015, according to data measured by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, over-the-month comparisons show seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates went up in 23 areas of the state from December 2015 to January 2016 and remained the same in one area, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported.

From January 2015 to January 2016, 14 areas added jobs, with the largest-percentage gains in the Brockton-Bridgewater-Easton, Haverhill-Newport-Amesbury, and Barnstable areas. One area recorded a loss. The statewide, seasonally adjusted jobs estimate showed a 2,500 job loss in January and an over-the-year gain of 48,900 jobs.

Springfield Central Cultural District Welcomes 15 New Members

By BusinessWest Staff March 16, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Central Cultural District recently welcomed 15 new organizations to its membership. They include the Armory Quadrangle Civic Assoc., Bay Path University, the Bing Arts Center, Blues to Green, the Drama Studio, Classical Condominiums, Enchanted Circle Theatre, Martin Luther King Family Services, New England Farmworkers Council, Panache Productions, Partners for a Healthier Community, the Performance Project, Springfield Public Forum, Springfield Technical Community College, and SilverBrick Lofts. They will join the ranks of 25 current members, mostly comprised of downtown arts and culture organizations.

The Springfield Central Cultural District (SCCD) is an independent nonprofit that attained the designation of cultural district from the Massachusetts Cultural Council in 2014. Its mission is to foster civic engagement and arts education in the city of Springfield by creating and sustaining a vibrant cultural environment that positions the city as the cultural capital of the region.

“We are honored to have such amazing members join the fold,” said Morgan Drewniany, executive director of the SCCD. “Increasing the size of our membership only increases the possibility of work we can do in making Springfield more friendly to arts and culture. Having a connected network of not only arts organizations, but businesses and higher ed, helps the district grow stronger together.”

For more information about current and new members, how to become a member, or the work the SCCD is doing, visit springfieldculture.org or contact Drewniany at [email protected] or (413) 781-1592.

Glenmeadow Learning Examines Philanthropy’s Role in Estate Planning

By BusinessWest Staff March 15, 2016

Daily News

LONGMEADOW — Glenmeadow Retirement will partner with the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts in offering panel discussion on charitable giving as a critical piece of a well-rounded estate plan.

Moderated by Katie Allan Zobel, president of the Community Foundation, the talk — the first in the spring Glenmeadow Learning series — will be held Wednesday, March 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Longmeadow Country Club, 400 Shaker Road.

As part of “Informed Giving: A Look at Philanthropy’s Role in Estate Planning,” a panel of experts will help participants identify their philanthropic values and outline the legal and financial mechanisms through which gifts can be made. Several community members will discuss their philanthropic inspiration.

In addition to Zobel and select donors, panelists will include George Keady III of Keady Montemagni Wealth Management Group, and attorney Todd Ratner of Bacon Wilson, P.C.

Established in 1884, Glenmeadow is a nonprofit, accredited, continuing-care retirement community that provides independent and assisted living at its campus at 24 Tabor Crossing in Longmeadow and expanded Glenmeadow at Home services throughout Greater Springfield. To learn more, visit www.glenmeadow.org.

Franklin Hampshire Career Center Slates Job Fair for March 16

By BusinessWest Staff March 15, 2016

Daily News

SOUTH DEERFIELD — Many area businesses are hiring, and that’s good news for job seekers. On Wednesday, March 16, the ninth annual Franklin Hampshire Career Center Spring Fling Job Fair will be held at Frontier Regional High School in South Deerfield from 4 to 6 p.m.

The job fair is free and open to the public. Job seekers are encouraged to bring a résumé and be prepared to interview. A record number of employers — 45 — are scheduled to attend, representing major industry sectors including healthcare, accommodation and food Services, manufacturing, administrative and support services, construction, arts, entertainment and recreation, and transportation and warehousing.

For more information about the fair, call (413) 586-6506 or visit www.fhcc-onestop.com.

Parsons Paper Site to be Remediated, Redeveloped

By BusinessWest Staff March 15, 2016

Daily News

HOLYOKE — On March 14, Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse was joined by city and state officials to mark the official start of the demolition and cleanup of the former Parsons Paper in preparation for the expansion of Holyoke manufacturer Aegis Energy Services.

The announcement capped a multi-year effort to remediate the site and make it ready for development. The expansion of Aegis Energy Services will entail a private investment of approximately $7 million, the retention of 65 job,s and the creation of at least 30 new jobs, as well as the creation of up to 4 megawatts of renewable energy, making it the city’s largest manufacturing expansion in years.

“This is a significant milestone in our city’s revitalization that should be celebrated and praised. Redevelopment of the Parsons site has been an extremely difficult challenge, bringing with it significant legal, environmental, and financial constraints that have impeded progress for years,” Morse said. “The staff in the Office of Planning and Economic Development and the Law Department should be applauded for their efforts as they’ve worked diligently with the Redevelopment Authority and a cross-collaboration of public and private partners to make this project a reality. I’d be remiss if I did not offer my sincere appreciation to Lee Vardakas of Aegis Energy for his commitment to Holyoke; we are fortunate to have this innovative company stay and grow in our city, and I thank him for his investments and contributions.”

Located at 84 Sargeant St. between the first and second level canals, the 4.7-acre Parsons Paper site has been unused and vacant since 2004. In 2008, a fire significantly destroyed a majority of the structures, and the city officially foreclosed on the property and took ownership in 2012 for failure to pay taxes. In 2014, the Redevelopment Authority engaged Tighe & Bond to undertake environmental assessments, specifications for demolition and cleanup, and project permitting to prepare the site for reuse.

Many sources of funds are being used to make the demolition and cleanup phase of the project possible and have been amassed through the HRA, including $250,000 in funds from an agreement with Eversource Energy (formerly Northeast Utilities) as part of a mitigation payment associated with cleanup of contaminants in the Connecticut River; $2 million from the state Brownfield Fund through MassDevelopment; $1 million in capital investment by Holyoke Gas & Electric, which secures an easement on the site for potentially 2.5 MW of hydroelectric generation; and a $400,000 capital loan from the Holyoke Economic Development and Industrial Corp., to be paid from the sale proceeds of the land to Aegis Energy Services. The city also provided its most aggressive tax-incentive schedule in its history: a 100% property-tax exemption for 10 years.

“This is an incredibly challenging site and a costly endeavor, one that would have been very difficult for the city to do by itself,” said Marcos Marrero, director of Planning & Economic Development for the city, as well as executive director for the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority. “Consequently, the financing framework for this project is probably the most complex that Holyoke has seen in decades. The implications a year from now will be significant: blight reduction, building reuse, job creation, expansion of manufacturing, more renewable energy, and improved property values in the neighborhood.”

Added MassDevelopment President and CEO Marty Jones, “cleaning up and redeveloping this highly visible site in downtown Holyoke will positively impact surrounding businesses, residences, and the city’s innovation district. This project illustrates the vital role the Brownfields Redevelopment Fund plays in transforming parcels around the Commonwealth, and I applaud Holyoke for its commitment to this property.”

The contractor for the work is McConnell Enterprises Inc., which will begin work on the site immediately in order to take advantage of the regularly scheduled canal draw-down on Maech 22-24. Demolition and cleanup is projected to be completed by August, after which the site will be taken over for redevelopment by Aegis Energy Services, rehabilitating one 40,000-square-foot building — a 200% expansion of the company’s square footage — and adding at least 30 new jobs, an approximate 50% growth in the company’s employment.

Governor Signs Landmark Opioid Legislation into Law

By BusinessWest Staff March 15, 2016

Daily News

BOSTON — Yesterday at the State House, Gov. Charlie Baker signed landmark legislation into law to address the deadly opioid and heroin epidemic plaguing the Commonwealth.

He was joined by a group including Health and Human Services Secretary Marylou Sudders, Senate President Stanley Rosenberg, House Speaker Robert DeLeo, Attorney General Maura Healey, Auditor Suzanne Bump, members of the Legislature, law enforcement, healthcare providers, community leaders, individuals in recovery, and others.

The bill, titled “An Act Relative to Substance Use, Treatment, Education, and Prevention,” passed with unanimous votes in both legislative chambers and includes numerous recommendations from the Governor’s Opioid Working Group, including prevention education for students and doctors and a seven-day limit on first-time opioid prescriptions.

“Today, the Commonwealth stands in solidarity to fight the opioid and heroin epidemic that continues to plague our state and burden countless families and individuals,” Baker said. “I am proud to sign this legislation marking a remarkable statewide effort to strengthen prescribing laws and increase education for students and doctors. While there is still much work to be done, our administration is thankful for the Legislature’s effort to pass this bill and looks forward to working with the attorney general and our mayors to bend the trend and support those who have fallen victim to this horrific public health epidemic.”

Added Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, “today, we take another step forward by passing landmark legislation that will help the individuals and communities affected by the deadly opioid and heroin epidemic. We are grateful for the Legislature’s progress and for the partnership of Attorney General Healey, our mayors, and several others as we continue pursuing aggressive reforms to combat this crisis from the Berkshires to the Cape.”

The bill includes the first law in the nation to limit an opioid prescription to a seven-day supply for a first-time adult prescriptions and a seven-day limit on every opiate prescription for minors, with certain exceptions. Other provisions from the governor’s recommendations include a requirement that information on opiate use and misuse be disseminated at annual head-injury safety programs for high-school athletes, requirements for doctors to check the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) database before writing a prescription for a Schedule 2 or Schedule 3 narcotic, and continuing-education requirements for prescribers, ranging from training on effective pain management to the risks of abuse and addiction associated with opioid medications.

Several measures were passed to empower individuals and update current prevention efforts. Patients will receive access to non-opiate directive forms and the option of partially filling opioid prescriptions in consultation with doctors and pharmacists. Schools must annually conduct verbal substance-misuse screenings in two grade levels and collaborate with the departments of Elementary and Second Education and Public Health (DPH) around effective addiction-education policies. To reduce the prevalence of unused medication, manufacturers of controlled substances in Massachusetts must participate in either a drug stewardship program or an alternative plan as determined by DPH.

This bill strengthens access to insurers and the bed-finder tool website; requires that patients receive information on FDA-approved, medication-assisted therapies after being discharged from a substance-use treatment program; and ensures civil-liability protection for individuals who administer Narcan.

The opioid epidemic continues to impact every community in Massachusetts. According to the most recent data, it is estimated that there were nearly 1,200 unintentional and undetermined opioid deaths in 2014. The estimated rate of 17.4 deaths per 100,000 residents for 2014 is the highest ever for unintentional opioid overdoses and represents a 228% increase from the rate of 5.3 deaths per 100,000 residents in 2000. And the trend isn’t slowing. Preliminary data estimations show there were over 1,100 opioid deaths between January and September 2015.

Community Enterprises to Celebrate 40 Years with May 12 Luncheon

By BusinessWest Staff March 14, 2016

Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Richard Venne, president and CEO, invites the public to join Community Enterprises Inc. in celebrating 40 years of empowering individuals with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive in the community.

A luncheon will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke on Thursday, May 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $50 per person, a reserved table for eight is $400, and tickets for clients and staff of Community Enterprise are $30. For more information about tickets, sponsoring the event, or placing an ad in the program, e-mail Krystle Bernier at [email protected] or call (413) 584-1460, ext. 120.

Community Enterprises is a human-service organization that provides employment, education, housing supports, and day supports for people with disabilities. Headquartered in Northampton, it maintains 27 service locations in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Kentucky. Massachusetts offices include Gloucester, Greenfield, Holyoke, Pittsfield, Plymouth, Salem, Somerville, Springfield, Wakefield, and Worcester.

Spring Fling to Benefit Easthampton Community Center Food Pantry

By BusinessWest Staff March 14, 2016

Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — On Sunday, April 17, Eastworks on Pleasant Street in Easthampton will play host to a Spring Fling vendor event that will benefit the Easthampton Community Center food pantry. The event will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 2 p.m.

The public is invited to attend. Participating vendors currently include How-Charming, Magnabilities, Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, Pure Romance, Rodan & Fields, Scentsy, Waldorf Natural Gifts – Hedge Hog Farms, Young Living Essential Oils, and Younique, with more vendors expected to be added.

For more information about Spring Fling, e-mail Mary Ann at [email protected].

Museum School Announces Spring, Summer Offerings

By BusinessWest Staff March 14, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Museum School at the Springfield Museums has announced its spring and summer schedule of classes and experiential learning opportunities for both children and adults.

Registration is now underway for all upcoming trips and classes, particularly the week-long summer courses for kids to keep the learning going during school vacation. All courses are led by experienced and supportive instructors in topics tied to the Museums’ collections and traveling exhibits. Full listings are available at springfieldmuseums.org under ‘programs,’ or by calling (413) 263-6800, ext. 377 or 382.

For young people, the school offers instruction in traditional topics like drawing, as well as more unusual and eclectic courses. For example, students taking week-long summer classes like “Ancient Treasures & Woodworking” will draw inspiration from the “Cabinets of Curiosity” exhibit at the D’Amour Museum, while those taking “Wildlife Adventures” will explore wildlife science in the field at the Stebbins Wildlife Refuge and in laboratory spaces at the Springfield Science Museum. There are also classes for teens interested in furthering their interest in painting, sculpture, and fabric design.

Offerings for adults during the coming months include a wide range of courses in drawing, painting, and creative writing for all skill levels, plus genealogy, birding, culinary arts, and astronomy. Many courses are one-day offerings, allowing even the busiest adults to participate.

Adult travel opportunities, from day trips to multi-day excursions, are also available. Highlights include day trips to hear Glimmerglass Opera perform La Boheme on Aug. 9, and an excursion to the Newport Art Museum on Aug. 31. Extended trips include a 10-day tour of Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Badlands National Parks in July, and a memorable journey to France to visit the Rhone Valley, Provence, and the Riviera in October.

AIC Names Raj Parikh Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

By BusinessWest Staff March 14, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Raj Parikh has joined American International College (AIC) as executive vice president for Academic Affairs. Prior to joining AIC, he was professor of Accounting and Finance and dean of the Walker College of Business and Management at Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa.

Parikh has more than 30 years of experience as an academic executive and five years as a financial executive. Prior to joining AIC, he served as a senior-level administrator at several universities, including Mercyhurst, Southern Oregon University, Delaware State University, Wilmington University Delaware, and St. Bonaventure University. He also served as the commissioner for academic accreditation for the government of the United Arab Emirates. In addition to expanding programs and increasing enrollments, he has led or been actively involved in strategic planning, budgeting, and academic prioritization. He has led accreditation efforts at several institutions.

Parikh co-authored World Accounting, a three-volume treatise on international accounting which is updated semi-annually. He has presented his research in accounting, finance, and organizational leadership at several regional and national conferences, in addition to being an invited guest speaker.

Parikh is passionate about higher education, international education, and improving access to traditional students and working adults. As an academic entrepreneur, he has successfully engaged in a variety of ventures, such as establishing and enhancing branch campuses, increasing enrollments and retention, creating new academic programs, and establishing programs in international locations in partnership with local institutions.

“In coming to AIC, I was intrigued by the opportunity to use my experience as a dean to help the college climb to even higher levels of academic excellence,” he said. “I am sincerely honored to join President [Vincent] Maniaci’s leadership team and look forward to this opportunity to make a difference.”

A graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, Parikh completed graduate work in chemical engineering. He received a Ph.D. in accounting and finance at the State University of New York at Buffalo. In addition, he is a certified managerial accountant (CMA), a certified financial manager (CFM), and a chartered financial analyst (CFA). For obtaining the highest score in the nation on the CMA examination, he was awarded the Robert Bayer Gold Medal.

94.7 WMAS Radiothon Breaks Fund-raising Record

By BusinessWest Staff March 11, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The 2016 94.7 WMAS Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon to benefit Baystate Children’s Hospital broke an all-time record last weekend, raising $343,377 over the three-day event.

“I’m so proud of the team,” said Cumulus Springfield Vice President Craig Swimm. “We’ve been doing the Radiothon since 2002, and since then have raised $3,096,424. The entire community came together to make sure local kids in the Springfield area have top-notch medical care. 94.7 WMAS would like to thank the entire community for their gracious support.”

Columbia Gas Recognizes 75th Anniversary of USO of Pioneer Valley

By BusinessWest Staff March 11, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Columbia Gas of Massachusetts has supported the USO of Pioneer Valley in its efforts to keep military families together. This year, as the USO celebrates its 75th anniversary, Columbia Gas continues its tradition by gifting the USO $2,500 in support of its programs for 2016.

According to the United Service Organizations (USO), America’s 1.3 million active-duty service members receive an estimated annual total of 10 million acts of connection from USO centers, services, and volunteers. The Pioneer Valley USO, located at the Westover Air Reserve Base, is one of those centers that has made a significant difference.

“Columbia Gas is proud to support the work of the Pioneer Valley USO, which provides an abundance of services to hundreds of families it serves from all branches of the military. As a company that actively recruits and employs veterans, we feel privileged to work with organizations such as the USO that focus on our military men and women as well as their families,” said Andrea Luppi, manager of Communications and Community Relations.

Added Allan Tracy, executive director of the Pioneer Valley USO, said the organization “is extremely thankful for the continued support from Columbia Gas. This partnership over many years has helped the Pioneer Valley USO continually meet the ever-changing needs of our local military and their families. As our military needs changed, so has the USO. We are proud to bring a touch of home to our military wherever they are.”

Literary Agent, Culinary Talent Agent to Headline PWC Luncheon

By BusinessWest Staff March 11, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Lisa Ekus, founder of the Hatfield-based Lisa Ekus Group Inc. and a literary agent and national culinary talent agent, will keynote the Professional Women’s Chamber Headline Luncheon on Wednesday, March 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Carriage House at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, sponsored by season sponsor BusinessWest and luncheon sponsor TD Bank.

Established in 1982, the Lisa Ekus Group Inc. specializes in “representing a world of culinary talent” consisting of authors, chefs, cookbooks, and food products. The agency consults on marketing and public-relations strategies for culinary businesses and acts as a multi-media placement service, matching food experts with corporations looking for product representatives, spokespersons, consultants, and recipe developers. It also offers nationally recognized media-training seminars and cookbook programs. Ekus’s workshops, seminars, and lectures have taken her around the globe, where she speaks about everything from culinary trends and building a brand to new media and how to go ‘blog to book.’

Launched in 2000, the Literary Agency division of the Lisa Ekus Group offers book-agent services and publishing consulting, currently representing more than 150 authors and working with numerous leading publishers.

The agency has received an Award of Excellence from the International Assoc. of Culinary Professionals (IACP) in the Small Business/Entrepreneur category. The company was also part of the team that won a Silver Edison Award from the American Marketing Assoc. for the introduction of Lipton’s Kettle Creations Soup Mix, and the media training program has been featured on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered, as well as in national magazines such as Food Arts and Restaurant Hospitality.

Ekus has served on Share Our Strength’s National Leadership Council, the development team of the capital campaign (which she co-chaired) for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts (on whose board she served for 10 years), and the Women Chefs & Restaurateurs (WCR) executive board. She has also served as a member of the corporation of the Culinary Institute of America, the board of directors of the New England Chapter of the American Institute of Wine & Food, and the board of directors of the IACP, as well as being its past national public relations chairperson. She was also a founding member of the Society for Cuisine in America and Northampton Hospitality Inc.

She is an avid fund-raiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America, PeaceTrees Vietnam, and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, and a member of IACP, WCR, Les Dames d’Escoffier, the Culinary Guild of New England, Southern Foodways Alliance, Slow Food USA, and the Women Presidents’ Organization. She is also a full member of the Assoc. of Authors’ Representatives (AAR).

Advance reservations for the luncheon are suggested. Tickets are $30 for PWC members, $40 for general admission, and free for PWC Headline Luncheon season-pass holders. Reservations may be made online at www.professionalwomenschamber.com or by e-mailing [email protected]. Season-pass holders must register for complimentary admission.

Name Net Worth Welcomes Pam Thornton as Chief Operating Officer

By BusinessWest Staff March 11, 2016

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Name Net Worth announced the hiring of Pam Thornton as chief operating officer.

Thornton has had an extensive career in the human-resources field, beginning in 1996 with LEGO Systems Inc. in Enfield, Conn. There, she was able to acquire hands-on experience with recruitment, interviewing, and training of year-round and part-time field personnel. Additionally, she was responsible for employee relations, benefits administration, and staff performance management. She also served in a management role with K2 Sports, where she hired a field merchandising staff of 100 employees. She was also business development manager for United Personnel, a woman-owned staffing firm in Springfield, and most recently served as a member of the HR legal team with the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast.

Name Net Worth, a startup app launched by Jeremy Casey and currently in beta testing, is a connective platform that leverages trusted relationships to measure and strengthen personal and professional networks, allowing the ability to measure the success of connections and easily manage follow-ups. The company was accepted to the Valley Venture Mentors accelerator program and has received investment capital.

“To be honest, moving outside the HR field, and to a startup, nonetheless, was a bit daunting,” Thornton said. “But my career had been built on networking, and I had faced the same question of ROI from employers. Knowing Jeremy for many years, his passion and drive are unmatched, and I knew together we could create a resource for not only our area, but the world. Ultimately, this app is a tool HR departments and recruiters will be able to use to increase the workforce. I am thrilled to be a part of it.”

Thornton serves on the board of directors for the Human Resources Management Assoc. of Western New England and leads its membership effort. She is a past president and served on the board of directors for the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield. She has also held her Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the Society for Human Resource Management since 2003.

For more information about the app, visit www.namenetworth.com or call Thornton at (413) 221-8665.

Trinity Health Awards Grant for Mercy Project

Lee Bank Announces Alliance with St. Germain

Waterfront Tavern Re-opens in Holyoke

Taylor Street Dental Offers Free Lunch at Hot Table

Big Y Announces Make-A-Wish Promotion

Columbia Gas Recognizes 75th Anniversary of USO of Pioneer Valley

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

EAST OF THE RIVER FIVE TOWN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Outlook 2016

Difference Makers

‘Training for the Digital Marketplace’

Service of Remembrance

‘A Night of Passion’ for Link to Libraries

‘Poets for Life: Poets Respond to AIDS’

Not Just Business as Usual

5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause

Walk of Champions

40 Under Forty

GREENFIELD DISTRICT COURT

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

PALMER DISTRICT COURT

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT

WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT

Celebrate Springfield

Photos by Ed Cohen

Daily News

News

Contact

Departments

Events