Home 2016 (Page 40)

Year: 2016

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

Bailey, Michael L.
Bailey, Anne M.
63 Sanford St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/15/16

Bank, Michael S.
PO Box 102
Sandisfield, MA 01255
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/16

Benoit, Robin M.
368 Boston Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/04/16

BGM Electrical Contractor
Mitton, Bruce G.
48 Donamor Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/03/16

Blase, George A.
Blase, Kelly A.
19 Ruthven St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/10/16

Calderwood, Patricia A.
239 Main St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/11/16

Czupryna, Roger Joseph
5 Cosgrove St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/12/16

Davenport, Ronald
Davenport, Susan M.
12 Crandall St.
Adams, MA 01220
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/11/16

Haygood, Chanelle J.
a/k/a Phair’s Lawn Service
154 Croyden Terrace
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/07/16

Hutchins, Rodney C.
Hutchins, Marie E.
726 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/15/16

Koszorowski, Tobie
144 Mallow Hill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/12/16

Kustra, Lita M.
441 Dewey St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/07/16

Martin, Carole Elaine
32 Quaboag Valley Co-op S.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/11/16

Phair’s Lawn Service
Phair, Robert W.
58 Thomas Island Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/16

Pinkos, David R.
48 Bray Park Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/14/16

Renz America Company Inc.
92 Almgren Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/06/16

Semaski, Kerry A.
58 Highland Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/10/16

Smith, Norman Wallace
Smith, Lisa Mae
8 Orpin Road
Peru, MA 01235
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/15/16

Torres, Jose J.
19 Knollwood St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/07/16

Zinn, Byron W.
Zinn, Michelle L.
a/k/a Cone, Michelle L.
a/k/a McGrath, Michelle L.
48 South Westfield St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/13/16

Rivas, Ramon L.
41 Collins St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/15

Doing Business As Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2016.

AGAWAM

Built for Comfort Band
21 Fairview St.
Douglas Rossi

DAB Studios
525 Springfield St.
Danielle Burns

Stan’s Paving
1370 Main St.
B & J Stanley

Trespass
1251 River Road
Trespass

GREENFIELD

Anne Christopher Nail Company
5 Arch St.
Sheila Dupras

Attune Reiki and Healing Arts
110 Franklin St.
Benjamin Conruck

Barlow Paving & Excavating
77 Davis St.
Bryan Barlow

Saw-What Photography
209 Barton Road
Kelley Manson

Unity Healing Temple
158 Main St.
Kristin Brackett

HOLYOKE

Joann Fabrics & Crafts
2267 Northampton St.
Brian Bailey

Myers Conversation
46 Howard St.
William Myers

Those Dogs
60 Chapin St.
Brian Goldrick

SPRINGFIELD

413 Gridiron Consulting
36 Gates Ave.
Warren Lawrence

Allston Antiques
27 Lyman St.
William Paul

Arianna Family Market
51 Montgomery St.
Arelis Siri

Bella Milano Pizza
29 St. James Blvd.
Ahmet Citlak

Better Care Cleaning
178 Albermarle St.
Willie Jones

Car Guys Auto Recyclers
148 Temby St.
Allan Bartlett

Career Express Cleaning
699 Bay St.
Jenny Silva

Carlos Crus Masonry
51 Chester St.
Carlos Crus

CMV Home Improvement
21 Lang St.
Carlos Velez

Dallas & Company
161 Laconia St.
Richard Anthony

Dillomart
74 Bartels St.
Keiko Andolino

DLP Anderson
18 Northway Dr.
Dawn L. Anderson

Done Right Realty
25 Merrick Ave.
Jerry Rivera

Top Mechanical Service
77 Ellsworth Ave.
Raymond Brainard

Top Notch Cuts
363 Boston Road
Shawn Jones

Try Me Too Breakfast
827 State St.
Damin J. Mullen

Tufts Health Plan
1441 Main St.
Tufts Associated

Vega Productions
1562 Sumner Ave.
Joe Vega

White House Vision
107 Spring St.
Aaron Butler

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Green Paws Landscaping
1614 Westfield St.
Craig Chapman

Hampden Gas Mart Inc.
562 Westfield St.
Nipun Salja

JMJ Vacuum
735 Memorial Ave.
Donald Desnoyers

KAP  Stone Kraft Paper
100 Palmer Ave.
KAP Stone Container

Market Ready Solutions
38 Neptune Ave.
New England Estate

Riverdale Storage Center
143 Doty Circle
Jan Chrzran

The Crop Shop
338 Westfield St.
Nancy Jamrog

Incorporations

By
Departments Incorporations

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

Agawam

Krishna Keshav Corp., 31 Riviera Dr., Agawam, MA 01001. Jay Patel, 9 Sanford Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824. Gas station and convenience store.

Amherst

Ginger Garden Restaurant Amherst Inc., 351 Northampton St., Amherst, MA 01002. Xue Bin Zhang, 1855 SW Jamesport Dr., Port St Lucie, FL 34953. Food service.

Belchertown

Gigxero Inc., 121 Aldrich St., Belchertown, MA 01007. Kristopher J. Pacunas, same. Technology: Internet (e-commerce and website).

Clarksburg

Florida Mountain Turnip Inc., 522 Walker St., Clarksburg, MA 01247. Jerrid C. Burdick, same. Service — Florida mountain turnips and vegetables.

Easthampton

Golden China Pan Inc., 98 Union St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Dan Ju Pan, 8 Quirk Ave., Holyoke, MA 01040. Restaurant.

Great Barrington

MC2 Creative Services Inc., 454 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Walter J. McTeigue III, 76 Townhouse Road, South Egremont, MA 01258. Jewelry design and related services.

Hampden

La Casa Bella Inc., 546 Main St., Hampden, MA 01036. Michael F. Connors, 7 Jennifer Lane, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Restaurant/tavern.

Holyoke

Jeb Corporation, 81 North Bridge St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Jose Almonte, 193 Cabot St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Own and operate a liquor store.

Longmeadow

Hair Studio One Inc., 20 Cross St., Longmeadow, MA 01106. Michelle La Valley, 13 Rabideau Dr., Easthampton, MA 01027. Hair salon.

Southwick

Him Group Foundation Inc., 37 Dear Run Road, Southwick, MA 01077. Pramod Sarraf, same. Organization for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes.

Springfield

Guananico 1 Market Corp., 68 Locust St., Springfield, MA 01108. Carlos Tejada, same. Grocery store.

Main Wok Inc., 590 Page Blvd., Springfield, MA 01104. Song Qiu Chen, same. Restaurant/food service.

Mama Hilda’s Houses Inc., 13 Quincy St., Springfield, MA 01109. Rosah Clase Tuarezca, same. Recovery center for women from alcohol, drugs, and domestic violence.

Markey Barrett, P.C., 1414 Main ST. 8th Floor, Springfield, MA 01144. Patrick J. Markey, 17 Oxford St., Springfield, MA 01108. Law practice.

Masjid Al-Nur Inc., 820 Worthington St., Springfield, MA 01109. Yasir Osman, 197 Florida St., Springfield, MA 01109. Place of worship for Muslims and providing education on Islam.

Westfield

HCT Second Hand & Pawn Shop Inc., 68 Court St., Westfield, MA 01085. Thang Dac Bui, 32 Russell St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Buy and sell new and used merchandise.

West Springfield

Het Parikh Inc., 55 Main St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Rakesh Parikh, same. Real estate.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

Downtown Springfield
to Offer Free Wi-fi

SPRINGFIELD — Mayor Domenic Sarno and Chief Development Officer Kevin Kennedy announced upgrades to Springfield’s downtown technology infrastructure. The initiatives include providing free public wi-fi access beginning in the downtown area this spring, then expanding to other areas of the city, including public parks. Working with city partners, the initiative will also bring high-speed fiber into buildings, which will provide the growing entrepreneurship sector with quicker, cost-effective, easier-to-access technology. “Springfield has a history of innovation,” Sarno said. “These investments will keep us competitive in the market to attract entrepreneurs and to assist those here today in continuing to grow. This will also serve as a matter of convenience for residents and tourists who will be able to access Internet in our parks and public spaces.” The initial investment will range between $50,000 and $100,000 and will ensure free wi-fi access throughout downtown. The investment comes on the heels of the city’s announcement of a National Disaster Resilience Competition (NDRC) award, part of which will dedicate funding to a pair of key innovation projects in the district: DevelopSpringfield’s Springfield Innovation Center and an IT workforce-training program through Tech Foundry. Funding is expected to be $300,000 for each project. All of these activities fall in the city’s Transformative Development Initiative district, a designation the city applied for and was awarded through MassDevelopment, which has since provided staff, an equity investment, and technical and financial assistance as the Worthington Street master plan continues to advance. “This has all been part of a dedicated planning process to establish an innovation district in our downtown,” Kennedy said. “The private and nonprofit sectors have been doing their share in creating a great deal of excitement with programming; these key city infrastructure investments will only help further these efforts. It’s been a great partnership.”

Springfield Regional Chamber Adopts
Energy Position

SPRINGFIELD — The board of directors of the Springfield Regional Chamber voted this week, on behalf of its members, to take a position on energy in the state of Massachusetts and to support a balanced energy portfolio, including the expansion of the supply of natural gas. “Energy is a critical issue for our members. While they acknowledge that regional investment in the transmission infrastructure has increased the reliability of our grid, they see that demand for natural gas continues to rise and the infrastructure is not in place to support such demand,” said chamber President Jeffrey Ciuffreda. “This not only increases their already-high costs of electricity, but causes constraints on the infrastructure and supply. Combined, they tell us it significantly impeded their continued economic development and the economic development of our region.” As a result, Ciuffreda said the Chamber, on their behalf, has adopted the following position: “The Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce (SRC), through its members, has long identified the high, and increasing, cost of energy as a major issue to address and more recently has identified the constraints on the supply of natural gas as a major deterrent to economic development in the region. Therefore, the chamber supports the expansion of the supply of natural gas, especially to the Western Massachusetts region, as a means to assist in economic-development efforts as well as to reduce the cost of electricity. The chamber acknowledges that two pipeline expansions are in various stages of development, the Spectra project as well as the Kinder Morgan project, and encourages the development of each. The chamber believes that there are sufficient permitting and regulatory rules in place to ensure the safety of these projects and the protection of lands in and around these projects. While endorsing the increased supply of natural gas, the chamber also reiterates its support for the goal set by the state for the development of solar energy and encourages swift action on a comprehensive energy bill that will further bring on line other alternative energies such as wind and hydro. Finally, the chamber is encouraging its members to take advantage of the programs available, many funded through electricity charges, for conservation and efficiencies. There is no better way to lower the cost of electricity than through those efforts. Moving toward this balanced portfolio of energy sources and recognizing the conditions and constraints about being in New England will ensure a better future for all — businesses and residents alike.” Ciuffreda said the chamber will work with local and state officials, utility companies, and developers to continue to advocate on behalf of its members for the programs and capital necessary to lower these escalating costs and improve the region’s infrastructure, and will be an active participant in reviewing any legislation on this issue.

 

State Proposes $83.5M
for Vocational Technical Education Programs

BOSTON — Gov. Charlie Baker, Secretary of Education James Peyser, Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Ronald Walker II, and Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Jay Ash announced a series of new initiatives to support career vocational technical education, including $83.5 million to be proposed between the governor’s FY 2017 budget recommendation and new capital grant funding to be filed in an economic-development bill this week. “With too many good-paying jobs going unfilled, we are pleased to announce this critical investment in our career and technical schools,” Baker said. “Our proposal will make it possible for more students to explore a pathway to success through stronger partnerships with our schools and local businesses in the Commonwealth.” The funding in the FY 2017 budget will be coupled with a substantial capital-grant program for vocational equipment that further aligns the administration’s investments with local economic- and workforce-development needs and employment partnerships. “Massachusetts has some of the strongest career-technical programs in the country, at both the high-school and college levels, but access and quality are uneven across the Commonwealth, and there’s currently little alignment across education levels,” said Peyser. “Our efforts will significantly expand student access to high-quality career-education programs in STEM fields, manufacturing, and traditional trades, with a focus on underserved populations and communities.” Added Walker, “finding ways to make sure people get the skills and job training they need to get a good-paying job is one of the biggest challenges before us. With these initiatives, we will engage employers as full partners in program design and implementation to help them create a pipeline of workers.” Ash noted that “vocational institutions are an important part of training the workforce to address the skills gap. These additional resources will continue to equip vocational institutions as they train the next generation of skilled workers who will help grow the Commonwealth’s economy.”

 

Employer Confidence Steady to Start 2016

BOSTON — Confidence among Massachusetts employers remained steady during January as optimism about the state economy offset uncertainty about China and turbulent financial markets. The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index rose 0.5 points to 55.8 last month, starting 2016 well above the 50 mark that denotes a positive economic outlook. The increase was driven by a 1.8-point surge in the index measuring employer attitudes about Massachusetts. Confidence remained lower than it was in January 2015, however. “The fact that employer confidence remained solid during a month in which the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index was at one point off 9% and oil dropped below $27 a barrel points to the fundamental, underlying strength of the Massachusetts economy,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA) and lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Design. The AIM Index, based on a survey of Massachusetts employers, has appeared monthly since July 1991. It is calculated on a 100-point scale, with 50 as neutral; a reading above 50 is positive, while below 50 is negative. The Index reached its historic high of 68.5 on two occasions in 1997-98, and its all-time low of 33.3 in February 2009. The index ended 2015 down for the year, but remained consistently in optimistic territory for the first 12-month period since the Great Recession. Most of the sub-indices based on selected questions or categories of employer rose a point or two in January, though all remained down year over year. The Massachusetts Index, assessing business conditions within the Commonwealth, jumped 1.8 points to 58.1, starting the year more than a point lower than last January. “The Massachusetts Index has been above its national counterpart for 80 consecutive months, and that perception was bolstered by the decision in January by General Electric to locate its corporate headquarters in Boston,” Torto said. “GE’s decision was important, not only for the 800 jobs it will bring, but because the company cited Massachusetts’ leadership in knowledge industries as its reason for coming.” The U.S. Index of national business conditions slipped to 49.9 on the month, leaving it more than four points lower than a year ago. The Current Index, which assesses overall business conditions at the time of the survey, increased slightly to 54.6, while the Future Index, measuring expectations for six months out, rose almost a full point to 57.0. “Employers clearly do not believe that the correction in financial markets signals an overall economic slowdown,” said Alan Clayton-Matthews, associated professor of Economics and Public Policy at Northeastern University and a BEA member. “Massachusetts employers foresee positive business conditions through at least the first half of 2016, and that comports with economic forecasts that Massachusetts will reach full employment during the year.” The three sub-indices bearing on survey respondents’ own operations were mixed in January. The Company Index, reflecting overall business conditions, was up 0.3 points at 57.0, the Sales Index shed 1.1 points to 57.1, and the Employment Index rose 1.3 points to 55.1. “The increase in the Employment Index is good news for Massachusetts. Our survey found that 39% of respondents reported adding staff during the past six months, while 19% reduced employment,” said Katherine Kiel, professor of Economics at College of the Holy Cross and another BEA member. “Expectations for the next six months are even stronger — 37% hiring and only 10% downsizing.”

 

State Announces $9.2M
in Skills Capital Grants

HOLYOKE — The Baker-Polito administration recently announced the availability of $9.2 million in Skills Capital Grants for vocational-technical equipment investments to improve the quality of education and vocational training, provide career technical training to increase program capacity, and enable students to improve their skills to meet the needs of employers in the Commonwealth. “The skills gap is real across the country, and many companies cannot find the talent they need to fill positions and further develop their local economic impact,” said Gov. Charlie Baker. “By investing in capital equipment at vocational and technical schools that are focused on training, we will ensure more residents get the skills they need to get good-paying jobs in growing industries across the Commonwealth.” State officials announced the availability of the Skills Capital Grants at the future site of Holyoke Community College’s (HCC) Center for Culinary and Hospitality Excellence, located in the heart of the Holyoke Innovation District, which is experiencing significant investment and growth. The center is being funded by a $1.75 million capital grant from the former Manufacturing Training Equipment Grant program, which is being combined with the Vocational Opportunity Challenge Grants to create the new Skills Capital Grant. The Holyoke grant was awarded from a prior funding round. High demand for career training programs like Holyoke’s led to the creation, and expansion in scope, of the Skills Capital Grant program. “We are proud and excited to see the expansion of Holyoke Community College’s Culinary Arts program into a larger center which will provide critical skills to our residents for jobs available that are available now,” said Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse. Added HCC President William Messner, “Holyoke Community College is committed to continuously improving our academic program offerings. We have invested $20 million in such efforts over the past few years in areas directly related to regional employment opportunities, including this culinary center, as well as healthcare, STEM fields, and adult literacy. We are pleased to be able to expand our culinary and hospitality program at a critical time for the region and look forward to increasing the educational opportunities for hundreds of local residents.” The Skills Capital grants will range from $50,000 to $500,000, and while the grants do not require a match, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate cash and/or in-kind matches. Eligible applicants include Massachusetts schools, institutions, and organizations that provide career/vocational technical education programs, including all Chapter 74-approved vocational tech schools, community colleges, and providers of training programs that meet the federal Perkins Act definition of career and technical education. Grant applications must be submitted by Jan. 29.

 

Results From Statewide
Healthcare Quality
Survey Released

WATERTOWN — Massachusetts Health Quality Partners (MHQP) announced the results of an independent statewide patient experience survey, now publicly available at healthcarecompassma.org. The survey encompassed nearly 65,000 patients from more than 500 primary-care practices representing approximately 4,000 physicians across the state, who responded to the question of whether they would recommend their primary-care physician to their family and friends. “The answer to this and other patient-experience questions makes Healthcare Compass MA a tremendous resource for Massachusetts residents who want to find the best care available,” said Barbra Rabson, president and CEO of MHQP. Questions about whether or not providers ask patients about feeling depressed, feeling stressed, or experiencing problems with alcohol, drugs, or a mental or emotional illness were reported for the first time in MHQP’s 2014 survey results. The 2014 statewide behavioral-health mean score of 53.1 indicated that there was substantial room for improvement. The results of the 2015 survey indicate improvement to 56.5 for these behavioral-health measures, with several practices having made truly noteworthy progress. The survey also found that primary-care physicians across the state excel in communicating with their patients. The communication mean score for all practices across the state is 93.5 out of a potential 100 points. “We are fortunate to live in Massachusetts where we have access to MHQP’s statewide public reporting about patient-experience results,” said patient advocate Rosalind Joffe, president of ciCoach and MHQP board member. “MHQP’s commitment to capturing and reporting the patient voice, and focusing on what is important to patients, will continue to make care better in Massachusetts.” Added Dr. Thomas Scornavacca, senior medical director, UMass Memorial Health Care Office of Clinical Integration, “MHQP’s survey provides actionable information that helps bring physicians closer to our goal of delivering patient-centered care. At UMass Memorial Health Care, we evaluate MHQP survey results very carefully as we set healthcare quality-improvement priorities.”

Applicants Sought for
Energy and Environmental
Education Awards

BOSTON — The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) is now accepting nominations for its annual Secretary’s Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education until March 30. EEA Secretary Matthew Beaton will present awards this spring to Massachusetts teachers and students involved in school-based programs that promote environmental and energy education. “I am proud to recognize the teachers and students leading and inspiring their communities as they tackle critical energy and environmental issues,” Beaton said. “It is important to engage students early in issues like energy, recycling, conservation, and wildlife, and they have so many fresh ideas to offer.” All public and private Massachusetts schools (K-12) that offer energy and environmental education programs are eligible to apply for the awards. In 2015, schools and nonprofit organizations from 22 communities across the state were recognized for their work on issues including recycling, energy conservation, ocean science, wildlife conservation, and alternative fuels. The Secretary’s Advisory Group on Energy and Environmental Education will review applications through mid-April. Qualified entrants will be invited to attend a formal award ceremony with Beaton at the State House this spring.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook Departments

U.S. News Ranks
Isenberg’s Online MBA Program 12th Nationally
AMHERST — The Isenberg School of Management’s online MBA program at UMass Amherst ranks among the best online MBA programs in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Online MBA Programs.” The Isenberg MBA is ranked 12th out of 221 institutions ranked by the publication. “We continue to lead the pack in an increasingly competitive online educational landscape,” said Mark Fuller, dean of the Isenberg School. “This confirms what thousands of Isenberg students and alumni have known for over a decade: Isenberg’s online program goes beyond case studies and textbooks to drive students to real success.” The U.S. News ranking is based on five factors: student engagement, admissions selectivity, peer reputation, faculty credentials, and training and student services and technology. Unlike many of the other programs that recently entered the online space, Isenberg has offered its MBA in a 100% online format for more than 13 years, making it one of the oldest accredited online MBA programs in the nation. Enrollment approaches 1,300 students, making it the largest out of the top 25 schools ranked by U.S. News. “We continue to attract a high number of highly educated, highly successful professionals because we have a team of experienced professors and advisors who really understand how these students learn best,” said John Wells, associate dean of professional programs. “Despite our long tradition of outstanding online education, we continue to innovate with a variety of new approaches and technologies to connect students in our online format, new opportunities for in-person connections, and more diversity in our class offerings, including business analytics and sport management.”

Florence Bank TV Ad
Earns Top-20 Ranking from Bank Innovation
FLORENCE — Florence Bank, a mutually owned savings bank serving the Pioneer Valley through nine branch locations, has earned a spot on the Bank Innovation website (www.bankinnovation.net) for creating one of the 20 best banking videos of the year.
The commercial was produced by Sean Tracey Associates, Florence Bank’s advertising agency of record for the past three years and a key contributor to the bnk’s rebranding campaign. As one of Bank Innovation’s top 20 video ads of the year, the Florence Bank commercial is in good company with banks from around the world, including such high-profile institutions as Capital One, PayPal, Wells Fargo, Citigroup, American Express, JP Morgan Chase, Lloyds Bank, Ally Financial, Bank of Scotland, Bank of Ireland, and Commonwealth Bank of Australia. The Bank Innovation website was launched in 2009 and is produced by Royal Media, a media company that has served the financial industry since 1995. Bank Innovation tracks and encourages innovative banking worldwide. According to Sean Tracey, principal of Sean Tracey Associates, the 30-second video was a follow-up to a commercial produced two years ago in which local talent danced to the beat of Florence Bank’s theme music, titled “Always.” That year, professional singers were used on the music tracks. “Since that was a hit market-wise, we thought it would be a great idea to follow up the dancing commercials with a series of singing commercials,” said Tracey. “Since the bank’s customer base is full of talented artists and musicians, we felt we could use all local singers, performing the bank’s theme music in their own style.” The singing styles featured in the video range from country and jazz to pop and rock, with the 10 performers showcased culled from close to 50 who auditioned. Casting and pre-production spanned three months, with post-production and editing taking another month. Photography was shot over a two-day period on the Academy of Music stage in Northampton. Music producer and writer Dan Serafini, a long-time friend of Tracey’s, produced the music for the ad. “It was a dream-team production experience and extremely rewarding. As far as we know, this concept has not been done before, much less by a local bank — it was bold and daring,” Tracey said, thanking Monica Curhan, the bank’s senior vice president and marketing director, and President and CEO John Heaps Jr. “for their immense bravery and trust in our team to do something truly innovative and allow us to push the creative envelope. I think it paid off in spades.” Heaps added, “we are thrilled at the attention our latest television spot is receiving and feel honored that it has earned a spot on the Bank Innovation website. We thank Sean Tracey Associates for their vision and remarkable work and also our talented customers for their contribution to this award-winning video.”

MacDuffie Announces Collaboration with MCPHS
GRANBY — The MacDuffie School, a co-ed, college-preparatory school for grades 6 to 12, announced a collaboration with the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) that will guarantee qualified students admission to the Boston-based university. “The MCPHS program aligns well with the MacDuffie School,” said MacDuffie Head of School Steve Griffin. “MCPHS works hard to ensure that their graduates are certified in their home country, which is great for our international population. In addition, many of our local students are looking at careers in health sciences; a path to guaranteed admission is a wonderful benefit to all of our students.” This opportunity is contingent on students’ success in prerequisite courses at MacDuffie and, if needed, an English-proficiency test. According to the agreement, students with a minimum B average in MCPHS-specified science and math courses will be eligible for a reserved spot in an undergraduate program. Students graduating from MacDuffie with a minimum B average in the prerequisite courses and who meet the English-language requirements are guaranteed both a reserved spot and a scholarship. “In the health sciences, it’s important to have good training and references,” said Ita Duron-Hermouet, director of Admission International Research and Strategy at MCPHS. “Our graduates have the most prestigious internships available.” Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, and the Harvard School of Public Health are just a few of the institutions where MCPHS graduates obtain internships and employment.

State & Bond, LLC Joins International Trade Group
SPRINGFIELD — State & Bond, LLC, has become a member of ACA International, a association of credit and collection professionals. ACA membership demonstrates that State & Bond is dedicated to advancing quality and professionalism in the credit and collection industry. As an ACA member, State & Bond has agreed to comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, as well as the ethical standards and guidelines established by the association. State & Bond is also a member of the New England Collectors Assoc. Founded in 1939, ACA brings together third-party collection agencies, law firms, asset-buying companies, creditors, and vendor affiliates, representing more than 230,000 industry employees. ACA establishes ethical standards; produces a wide variety of products, serices, and publications; and articulates the value of the credit and collection industry to businesses, policymakers, and consumers. For more information, visit www.acainternational.org.

Michael’s Party Rentals
to Move into New
Location in Palmer
LUDLOW — Michael’s Party Rentals Inc., located in Ludlow, recently purchased a building at 1221 South Main St. in Palmer. The new building gives the rental company more than double its current space, providing more than 20,000 square feet. “I have been looking for quite a long time to find the right building to solve our space issues,” said Michael Linton, president and owner. “Landing in Palmer was perfect because we service west to Albany and east to Boston, as well as north and south from Vermont to Southern Connecticut; this gives the team terrific access.” The additional space is needed to hold Michael’s ever-growing inventory of special-event equipment, including items obtained during its recent acquisition of Yankee Tents. The migration of the tents, chairs, and china from Ludlow to the new building will not happen until late spring, as Linton plans a major renovation of the building, including 1,000 square feet of office space, as well as a 2,000-square-foot Show Room and Design Center, where a client can plan an event. “This is the part I am most excited about,” said Melissa Sullivan, senior event coordinator and director of the Design Center. “It is going to be so amazing to actually be able to help a client visualize their event by creating a mini-version for them to touch and feel.” In addition, Michael’s will be adding a state-of-the-art tent-washing machine, the only one of its kind in the Pioneer Valley. The total project is expected to cost just shy of $750,000 and was financed by Chicopee Savings Bank and the Worcester Business Development Corp.

Euro-style Kart Track to Open in Hadley in March
HADLEY — Get ready to start your engines — Autobahn Indoor Speedway will open in March in the Hampshire Mall. “Indoor kart racing has been popular in Europe for many years and has recently found a strong following on the West Coast of the United States,” said Autobahn Managing Partner David Larson. “Autobahn Indoor Speedway is extremely excited to be bringing the first European-style indoor electric kart-racing facility to the Amherst area.” The Italian-made adult racing karts approach speeds of 50 mph.  The speedway utilizes zero-emission electric karts that accelerate faster than their noisier, gas-powered counterparts. “These are not the slow, rattling go-carts you may be used to as a kid,” Larson said. “Our karts are the highest-performance available, state of the art and built for safety.  One of the first things people notice is the torque of our electric motors — that acceleration is amazing. The handling is also top of the line, with hydraulic disc brakes, a rear differential, and competition-style racing tires.” The company, which will have a total of nine tracks on the East Coast by April, provides racing instruction to newbies and offers competitive leagues to more seasoned drivers. There are even Junior Karts (with slightly slower speeds) suitable for the younger crowd if they are at least 48 inches tall. Autobahn Indoor Speedway will be available for company outings, social groups, and birthday parties. Various group race packages are designed to meet the needs of most events, but a custom package can be arranged (including private, full-facility rentals). Groups have reserved race times and exclusive use of the track during their races, and they can compete individually or in teams. For more information, visit www.autobahnspeed.com or e-mail [email protected].

People on the Move

By
Departments People on the Move

• PeoplesBank announced the promotions and appointments of nine associates.
• Matthew Bannister has been appointed to Vice President, Corporate Responsibility. He possesses more than 30 years of brand management and corporate social-responsibility experience. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from UMass Amherst. His prior experience includes advertising, public relations, and event marketing for top advertising agencies and major nonprofit organizations;
• Paul Hillsburg has been promoted to Vice President, PeoplesFinancial and Insurance Services. With more than three decades of financial, sales, and business-development experience, he first joined the bank in 2008 and previously served as assistant vice president, PeoplesFinancial and Insurance Services. He holds an associate degree in business management from Springfield Technical Community College. He holds Series 7 and Series 66 licenses.
• Kristen Hua has been promoted to Vice President, Secondary Market. She possesses more than a decade of banking experience. She first joined the bank in May 2001 and previously served as assistant vice president, secondary market. She holds an MBA from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst and a bachelor’s degree from Providence College. She also is a graduate of the New England School for Financial Studies;
• Craig Kaylor has been appointed to Vice President, Compliance. He brings more than a decade of banking and financial experience to his new position, where he will be responsible for overseeing all compliance regulations and policies. He holds a juris doctor degree from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University and a bachelor’s degree from the University at Albany, SUNY;
• Denise Lamory has been promoted to Vice President, Commercial Loan Administration. She possesses close to four decades of banking experience. She first joined the bank in August 1976 and previously served as assistant vice president, commercial loan administration. She holds several business and financial certificates from the Western Massachusetts Institute of Management Education Inc. and Holyoke Community College;
• Trisha Leary has been promoted to Vice President, Internal Control. She possesses more than a decade of financial experience. She first joined the bank in 2013 and previously served as risk oversight officer. She holds a master’s degree in accounting and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.
• Karen Sinopoli has been appointed to Vice President, Controller. She brings a decade of banking and audit experience to her new position, where she will be responsible for maintaining and supervising the financial record of the bank in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. She holds a master’s degree in accounting from the Isenberg School of Management at the UMass Amherst and a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Pennsylvania State University;
• Donna Wiley has been promoted to Vice President, Regional Manager. She possesses close to four decades of banking experience. She first joined the bank in 1979 and previously served as assistant vice president, regional manager. She holds an associate degree in business administration from Holyoke Community College and graduated with honors from the Massachusetts Bankers Assoc. School for Financial Studies; and
• Brian Rheaume has been promoted to assistant vice president, information technology. He possesses more than a decade of information-technology experience. He first joined the bank in 2002 and previously served as information technology officer supervisor. He holds a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Westfield State University and is an A+ certified professional IT technician.
•••••
Kathleen McCormick and Peter Mirante have been appointed to the Berkshire Community College board of trustees. McCormick is a partner with McCormick, Murtagh & Marcus, a law firm in Great Barrington. She joined the firm in 2004 and was named partner in 2009. Her focus is on residential and commercial real estate, land use and permitting, construction law, business law, and estate planning. She previously clerked for First Justice David Kopleman in the Norfolk County Probate and Family Court and later served as an associate with the litigation firm Herlihy, Thursby & Herlihy in Boston. She has worked for well-known companies such as the Boston Celtics, the Jane Blalock Co., and Reebok International. McCormick holds a juris doctor degree from Suffolk University Law School and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. She is a member of the Massachusetts Bar Assoc., the Berkshire County Bar Assoc., and the Real Estate Bar Assoc. of Massachusetts. She is dedicated to enriching the lives of disadvantaged youth and is an active community member serving on boards of numerous charitable organizations. Mirante, who has worked in the banking industry for more than 20 years, is senior vice president of Branch Administration at Greylock Federal Credit Union in Pittsfield. He joined Greylock in 1998 and has served in numerous management positions. Prior to joining Greylock, he worked for Patten Corp. and then Berkshire Bank.
Mirante holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the former North Adams State College. He has a long history of community service and currently serves on the boards of the Northern Berkshire United Way, Berkshire Family & Individual Resources, Berkshire Compact for Education, and North Adams Parks & Recreation. Darlene Rodowicz, who was recently reappointed board chair by Gov. Charlie Baker, noted that “the new board members bring a wealth of knowledge from their respective roles in the community. We are happy to have them join the BCC board of trustees as we continue to advance the mission of the college.”
•••••
Local law firm Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. announced that attorney Steven Schwartz is the recipient of the Distinguished Advisor in Philanthropy Award. The award is presented annually by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts in partnership with the Estate Planning Council of Hampden County and the Pioneer Valley Estate Planning Council. Each year, the award’s recipient may recommend a Hampden, Hampshire, or Franklin county charity of their choice to receive a $1,000 grant. This year, Schwartz has decided to recommend the grant be made to the Children’s Study Home in recognition of its 150 anniversary. Schwartz concentrates his practice in the areas of family-business planning, mergers and acquisitions, corporate law, and estate planning. His practice involves representation of principals in family-business planning (including exit planning for business owners), representation of individuals and corporations in the purchase and sale of business enterprises, strategic planning for the future of clients’ businesses, and providing advice on alternatives in financing through loans and venture capital.
•••••
Pope Francis High School announced that John Goda, Athletic Director for Holyoke Catholic High School, has been appointed to the Athletic Director position for Pope Francis High School. The creation of Pope Francis High School was announced in 2015 when Springfield Bishop Mitchell Rozanski revealed that Cathedral High School and Holyoke Catholic High School would merge into a new school, named in honor of the current Pope. While the official merger will take place to coincide with the next academic year, 2016-17, there has already been a joining together of the athletic programs. Goda, a 1987 graduate of Cathedral, started his career with Holyoke Catholic as a teacher in 1994, and took over as athletic director in 2003. Since the merger of Cathedral and Holyoke Catholic was announced, Goda has worked alongside Cathedral Athletic Director Joe Hegarty to oversee the combined athletic programs for Pope Francis High School. Hegarty recently vacated his position at Cathedral, and Goda will assume the role.
•••••
Holyoke Medical Center (HMC) announced the appointment of Phillip Candito to the position of Vice President of Business Development, where he is leading marketing and development efforts and focused on growing the organization. Candito worked as director of Business Development at the Eastern Connecticut Health Network in Manchester, Conn. for 10 years before coming to HMC. Previously, he served St. Mary’s Hospital in Waterbury, Conn. as director of Rehabilitation Services and Occupational Medicine, and as a physical therapist. Earlier, he earned a degree in psychology from the University of Connecticut; worked in television, video, and stage production for 10 years in Connecticut and New York City; re-enrolled at UConn and earned a degree in physical therapy, which he practiced for 10 years; then attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to earn his graduate degree.
•••••
TD Bank has named Karl Mirke assistant vice president, store manager of the location at 90 Main St. in North Adams. He is responsible for new-business development, consumer and business lending, managing personnel, and overseeing the day-to-day operations at the store, serving customers in Berkshire County, including North Adams, Clarksburg, Adams, Cheshire, Stamford, and Readsboro. Mirke has 11 years of retail banking experience. Prior to joining TD Bank, he served as assistant branch manager at Citizens Bank in Pittsfield. He is a 2003 graduate of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts in North Adams.
•••••
Aaron Smith, P.C., a certified public accounting firm, announced that certified public accountant Bernard “Buzz” Travers III will assume the role of managing director. In that role, Travers will provide leadership and direction to achieve the goals of the firm. He will oversee day-to-day management and will continue to cultivate the talents of all accountants and staff at Aaron Smith. Travers joined the firm in 1999 as a tax specialist. He is a certified public accountant in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. His areas of expertise include corporate, individual and fiduciary income tax; state and local income and sales and use taxation; federal and state tax audits; mergers and acquisitions; estate and gift taxation; nonprofit taxes; and bankruptcy taxation. In addition, he has assisted numerous business owners in the sale and purchase of businesses. He received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Bentley University and his juris doctor from Western New England University School of Law. He is past president of the Estate Planning Council of Hampden County Inc., past president of the Field Club of Longmeadow Inc., an officer and director of the Sportsmen’s National Land Trust Inc., and past treasurer of the Longmeadow High School hockey and lacrosse booster clubs.
•••••
Bob Barna has joined Whalley Computer Associates (WCA) as a consulting architect. Barna was employed by VMWare as a senior consultant for the last 16 months and has 19 years of experience in the IT industry. He spent 17 of those years as the senior systems engineer at Competitive Computing. He has earned numerous VMware certifications and has extensive experience in design enablement, developing business requirements and identifying use cases, architecture design, environment build, product pilot, documentations and knowledge transfer, and more. Barna joins a team at WCA that also includes another former VMWare employee, Dan Sullivan, who joined VMWare shortly after it was founded and, in his seven years there, served customers all over New England and New York as a VMware systems engineer, VMware account executive, and partner business manager. Sullivan, who now holds the role of senior solution architect at WCA, is a 39-year veteran of the IT industry, with a background that combines technical expertise and sales skills.
•••••
EMA Dental announced that Dr. Colleen Chambers has joined the practice as its newest associate. Chambers completed her undergraduate degree in biological sciences at the University of Connecticut and went on to earn her DMD at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. She was awarded the School of Dental Medicine Alumni Research Fellowship for her research with alveolar bone and implant integration using rh-PDGF-BB. She completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she focused on esthetics, general dentistry, and complex implant dental treatment. Chambers is proud to have had the opportunity to provide dental care to underserved communities at the CT Mission of Mercy, Remote Area Medical Services in Wise County, Va., and as part of a dental service trip to Honduras. She is a member of the American Dental Assoc., the Massachusetts Dental Society, and the Valley District Society.
•••••
Caroline Gear has been named executive director of the International Language Institute (ILI) of Massachusetts, located in Northampton. Gear joined ILI in 1986 as a Spanish and ESOL instructor, and in 1989, she became the school’s director of programs. In that capacity, she has been ILI’s primary coordinator with numerous partners, including area businesses, partner colleges and universities, the U.S. State Department, the Fulbright Scholars program, and the U.S. Commercial Service. She has written several articles on assessment and evaluation and regularly presents on teacher training and supervision, both regionally and nationally. Gear earned her bachelor’s degree in Spanish from State University of New York at Potsdam and her masters’ degree in Spanish literature from Michigan State University. In addition to her years at ILI, she has worked in Peru, Mexico, and Spain.
•••••
Lee Bank announced that Wendy Healey has been named to the position of Senior Vice President, Community Banking, and David Harrington has been named to the position of Vice President, Commercial Lending. Healey joins Lee Bank with experience in both the retail-banking and financial-technology sectors. She most recently served as senior vice president in charge of retail, sales, and marketing at Torrington Savings Bank. Prior to that, she was an independent financial services consultant while pursuing an MBA, and has held senior management roles at COCC Inc., a lead provider in core technology to the financial industry; Sovereign/Santander Bank; and People’s United Bank in Connecticut. As senior vice president in charge of community banking, Healey’s focus will be on existing and new customer relationships, as well as the design and fulfillment of new products and packages of services to meet customer needs. She will oversee policies, future business planning, and long-range strategic goals for her department and is responsible for the overall administration of compliance, including policy and procedures, monitoring, review, training, and board reporting. Harrington brings more than 18 years of experience in product and operations management. He most recently served as multi-life new business operations manager at Guardian Life Insurance Co. in Pittsfield. Prior to that, he was employed as product and project manager, U.S. Insurance Group, MassMutual Financial Group, and senior product line manager, disability and long-term-care insurance at Berkshire Life Insurance Co. As vice president of commercial lending, Harrington is responsible for developing and maintaining Lee Bank’s commercial-lending activities and expanding existing customer relationships in conjunction with the bank’s strategic goals.
•••••
Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) recently welcomed three new members to its board of trustees: Steven Grande, Franklin Quigley, and Macarthur Starks Jr. Grande is president of Meridian Industrial Group, LLC in Holyoke and Springfield. He also serves on the Holyoke Taxpayers Assoc. is vice chair of the advisory committee at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, chairs the Mayor’s Industrial Development Advisory Council, serves on board of directors for the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, is a member of the advisory board for William J. Dean Technical High School; and is president of the board of directors for the Western Massachusetts National Tooling and Machining Assoc. Grande holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and criminal justice from American International College. Quigley, an STCC alumnus, serves on the STCC foundation board and is a member of the presidential search committee. He is the president of FD Quigley and Associates, an organization specializing in providing project-management services to commercial retail developers; is a member of the state board of directors for Special Olympics; and is a retired referee of the American Hockey League. Starks, a senior finance and leadership professional, is an assistant vice president/change agent at MassMutual Way Center of Excellence, at MassMutual Life Insurance Company. Starks also serves as board chair and treasurer of FutureWorks Career Center in Springfield. A graduate of STCC (‘88), Starks received a master’s in management information systems and a bachelor of arts in accounting from Western New England University.

Chamber Corners

By
Chamber Corners Departments

GREATER CHICOPEE
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Feb. 11: CEO Luncheon with Maura McCaffrey of Health New England, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. As president and CEO at HNE, McCaffrey leads the premier locally owned health plan serving this region. Health New England, headquartered in downtown Springfield, employs more than 340 people and provides health coverage for more than 225,000 members. Sponsored by Chicopee Savings Bank, First American Insurance Agency Inc., Holyoke Medical Center, and PeoplesBank Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members. To reserve tickets, call Lynn Morrissette at (413) 594-2101.

• Feb. 17: February Salute Breakfast & Annual Meeting, 7:15-9 a.m., Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr. Chicopee. Cost $23 for members, $28 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Feb. 11: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., sponsored by Canon Realty. Join area business professionals for networking. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER HOLYOKE
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Feb. 17: Economic Development Breakfast: Growing Businesses 1×1, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Delaney House, Country Club Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Holyoke Community College. A breakfast focusing on entrepreneurism with keynote speaker and local entrepreneur Delcie Bean, president of Paragus Strategic IT, along with graduates of the SPARK Entrepreneurial Launch Program. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members, which includes a hot breakfast buffet. Call the Holyoke Chamber at (413) 534-3376 or visit holyokechamber.com to sign up.

• Feb. 17: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., sponsored and hosted by Slainte, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Call the Holyoke Chamber at (413) 534-3376 or visit holyokechamber.com to sign up.

 

GREATER WESTFIELD
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Feb. 10: Chamber After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

 

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Feb. 10: Springfield Regional Chamber Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., location to be determined. Sponsored by the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members.

• Feb. 11-March 17: Springfield Regional Chamber Leadership Institute, TD Bank Conference Room, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Sponsored by MassMutual Financial Group and supported by the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation. Special guest speakers. The institute is directed by Julie Siciliano, dean of the Western New England University College of Business, and Jack Greeley, executive in residence. Participants will actively explore best practices of leaders; analyze their own leadership, learning, and and problem-solving styles; and experience the synergies that result from high-performing teams. Cost: $885 per participant, which includes a day trip to Beacon Hill and graduation dinner.

 

WEST OF THE RIVER
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Feb. 18: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Lattitude in West Springfield. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. Only members or guests of members may attend. The only cost to attend is the cost of lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. We cannot invoice you for these events. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 24: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The Breakfast will feature a panel of various legislatures, including state Sen. James Welch, state Sen. Donald Humason, State Rep. Nicholas Boldyga, state Rep. Michael Finn, Agawam Mayor Richard Cohen, and West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on ticket sales, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Agenda

By
Agenda Departments

‘Wolf to Woof’ Exhibit

Through May 12: In today’s society, dogs enhance the lives of millions of people in countless ways, but they are also some of our oldest friends. Ancient clues like cave paintings and burials reveal that dogs and people have lived together for thousands of years. But why have humans formed such close relationships with dogs, and not cows or chickens? “Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is the largest and most comprehensive traveling exhibition ever created on the history, biology, and evolution of dogs. The exhibit, on view at the Springfield Science Museum through May 12, attempts to sniff out the facts on dogs and explore what makes the human/dog relationship so unique. It uses the familiarity and love of these four-legged friends to explore science and biological concepts. The exhibit has four themed sections including multi-media displays, artifacts, photo murals, and dioramas of taxidermied wild canines and sculpted modern dog breeds. Additionally, interactive, hands-on components demonstrate key exhibit concepts. For example, visitors can enter a ‘howling area’ and guess what dogs are saying, test their nose against a dog’s great sense of smell, and examine fossil and genetic evidence of how modern-day dogs are descended from wolves. In addition, the weekly Museums à la Carte lecture on Thursday, March 17 will feature a talk by Eliot Rusman, president and CEO of Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation. Tickets for this lecture are $4 for the general public and $2 for members. “Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is sponsored by United Bank. MassMutual is the 2015-16 Premier Sponsor of the Springfield Museums.

Grief Through Story Workshop

Feb. 10: The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens will present a Grief Through Story workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Sunderland Public Library, 20 School St. The workshop, co-hosted by the Sunderland, Deerfield, and Hatfield public libraries, is geared toward adult caregivers and community members who are interested in learning how to initiate gentle conversations with youth about death, dying, and grief. The purpose of the workshop is to use children’s literature as an effective tool in talking with children about these difficult topics. Participants will join in a guided conversation about grief and will discover resources in various mediums that can be used to facilitate these important conversations. Family members, friends, and loved ones in the lives of a grieving young person, as well as anyone interested in grief work with children, is invited to attend.   The snow date is Wednesday, Feb. 17 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The event is free, and drop-ins are welcome. The Garden provides bereavement support at no cost to grieving families with young children no matter where, how, or when a death occurred. For more information about its programs, call Shelly Bathe Lenn, Garden coordinator, at (413) 582-5312.

Chocolate Fantasy

Feb. 12: Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s volunteers and members of the Baystate Franklin Auxiliary (BFA) will hold their annual Chocolate Fantasy fund-raiser from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the hospital’s main conference rooms. This year, funds raised at the Chocolate Fantasy will support the hospital’s Cardiopulmonary Department and Mental Health Unit. The event also features Valentine-related crafts and a raffle with baskets of items from local businesses. BFMC Clinical Notes, the hospital’s women’s a cappella chorus, will present a mini-concert of love songs at 12:15 pm in the main lobby. “Many local organizations and BFMC staff and volunteers have graciously and generously donated chocolate items, from chocolate-chip cookies to chocolate-covered apples to truffles and fudge, and much more,” said Sydney Ramey, chair of the Chocolate Fantasy committee. “We always invite contributors to think creatively as they consider what to send in for the sale.” A highlight of this year’s Fantasy is the raffling of an original watercolor by John Tomasetti, a member of the Old Deerfield Painting Group. The painting is on display in the BFA Gift Shop window. Raffle tickets may be purchased in the shop for $2 each, three for $5, or $10 for a baker’s dozen. The drawing will take place at the Chocolate Fantasy. For more information on the event, or to donate chocolate goodies or raffle items, contact Becky George, manger, Volunteer Services, BFMC, at (413) 773-2318  or [email protected].

Red Cross Blood Drive

Feb 16: The MassMutual Center will host its annual American Red Cross blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Severe winter weather across the nation since Jan. 1 has forced the cancellation of more than 300 blood drives, resulting in more than 9,500 donations uncollected, further depleting an already-low winter supply. In order to fulfill the need, blood products are being distributed to hospitals as quickly as donations are being collected. “The MassMutual Center is proud to hold our annual blood drive in support of the Red Cross. We are committed to serving the Springfield community and working with partners such as the Red Cross whose mission is to provide compassionate care to those in need,” said Stacey Church, general manager of the MassMutual Center. Visit redcrossblood.org or call (800) 733-2767 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred.

 

Informational Seminar on
Alzheimer’s, Dementia

Feb. 16: The Arbors at Chicopee will host an informational seminar on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia at 6 p.m. Ed Walters-Zucco, RN at Integra, will offer a brief presentation on the differences between the two diseases and the signs and symptoms. More than 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Community and resident family members will gather to learn how to cope with this statistic. Following the presentation will be a question-and-answer session and a raffle drawing. Refreshments, cookies, and cheese and crackers will be served.

 

Dinner, Conversation
About Race in America

Feb. 21: Blue Heron Restaurant will host “On the Bus: Dinner and a Conversation About Race in America with Julius Lester and Barry Moser.” Lester and Moser, writers, educators, and artists who currently reside in Western Mass., both came of age in Tennessee in the 1950s and 60s. Although they both rode public buses in the South, their experiences differed greatly because of the color of their skin. Their experience provides a lens through which the two will begin a discussion on race, racism, and segregation in the U.S. Local poet, author, and gallery owner Richard Michelson will moderate the discussion. Guests will be invited to pose questions to the panelists and share their own thoughts and experiences on the subject. The evening’s menu will draw from the culinary heritage of the American South. The meal will begin with a root vegetable soup served with pimento-cheese crostini. For the main course, guests will choose from a selection of chicken-fried steak with cream gravy, fried catfish with jalapeño remoulade, or squash and cheddar soufflé. Side dishes will be served family-style, and include collard greens, hoppin’ John, sautéed okra, and housemade biscuits. The meal will conclude with a slice of chess pie, a staple of Southern cuisine. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the cost is $40 per person, not including tax or gratuity. The full menu is available to view at www.blueherondining.com/special-events. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (413) 665-2102 or e-mailing [email protected].

 

Real-estate
Licensing Course

Feb. 22: Beginning Monday, Feb. 22, the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will sponsor a 40-hour, 14-class sales-licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real-estate salesperson license exam. The course will be completed on Wednesday, March 23. Tuition is $359 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328.

 

Celiac Disease and
Gluten-free Diets

Feb. 24: Many people are on gluten-free diets, either due to celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or just because they think it’s healthier. The community is invited to attend a luncheon program titled “Separating Facts from Fad: Gluten-free Diets,” presented by Dr. Harbir Sawhney, gastroenterologist from Baystate Medical Practices – Mary Lane Gastroenterology from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Baystate Wing Hospital in Palmer. “Dr. Sawheny will discuss celiac disease, gluten-free diets, and all things gastrointestinal,” said Susan Fontaine, senior coordinator of Loyalty Programs at Baystate Health. “Celiac disease is a digestive disorder in which the body can’t tolerate gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes oats. According to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, an estimated 1 in 133 Americans, or about 1% of the population, has celiac disease. “If you need to cut gluten from your diet, it may seem difficult, but there are many healthy and delicious foods that are naturally gluten-free,” said Fontaine, noting that the program will include a gluten-free bag lunch. The program is sponsored by Baystate Health Senior Class and will include lunch at no cost. Space is limited, and registration is required by calling Baystate Health Link at (800) 377-4325. For more information about the Senior Class Loyalty Program, visit www.baystatehealth.org/seniorclass.

 

Academy of Music
Historic Tour

Feb. 24: The Academy of Music will offer a free tour of the historic theater at 5:15 p.m. Led by Academy of Music Development Coordinator Kathryn Slater, the tour will provide insight into the history behind this Northampton mainstay, including details about the organization’s founder and interesting notes about the many revitalizations. Built in 1891, the Academy of Music was the first municipally owned theater in the U.S., and home to the first stock theater company in the nation, the Northampton Players, formed in 1912. For nearly 125 years, the Academy has hosted an impressive array of performers, and the building holds the tales. See for yourself the century-old hole cut in the stage floor for Houdini’s disappearing act; Cole Porter’s grandfather clock; dressing rooms used by Sarah Bernhardt, Boris Karloff, Ethel Barrymore; and more. Step on the stage and see the Academy of Music from a whole new perspective, and take in the results of the 2014 restoration that refurbished the 800-seat auditorium, which earned a Mass. Historical Commission Preservation Award. This walking-and-talking tour begins promptly at 5:15 p.m. in the main lobby and is expected to run approximately 45 minutes. Admission is free, but reservations are required, as attendance is limited to 20. Reservations may be made through the Academy of Music Box Office by calling (413) 584-9032, ext. 105, Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., or by e-mailing [email protected].

 

Springfield Falcons
Dr. Seuss Night

March 12: The Springfield Falcons, in partnership with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises, announced Dr. Seuss Night, to be held during a game against the Portland Pirates starting at 7 p.m. Dr. Seuss Night and the game will be sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For the first time ever, Dr. Seuss Enterprises has partnered with the Falcons and the Springfield Museums in presenting this special night to honor Theodor Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, who was born and raised in Springfield. The Springfield Museums are preparing to open the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in 2016, an exhibit featuring interactive activities for children and a one-of-a-kind experience that will provide a look at the man behind the drawing board. “We are excited to partner with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises in presenting this special night to honor one of Springfield’s most famous native sons,” Falcons President Sarah Pompea said. “We have been anticipating this night since the summer months and are excited to aid the launching of the new museum in support of a unique family entertainment night around a favorite children’s author.” The night will include appearances by the Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2 costumed characters. In addition, specialty jerseys will be worn by Falcons players and auctioned off, with proceeds donated to the Springfield Museums to help support the creation of the new museum. “We are thrilled that the Falcons are stepping up in support of our fund-raising campaign,” said Kay Simpson, president of the Springfield Museums. “It’s wonderful to have the support of one our best downtown neighbors.”

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 businesswest.com. 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 online at businesswest.com. 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.

 

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 road race for all levels of runners, from the novice to the serious athlete. The 3.1-mile course is flat out and back through Stanley Park and the surrounding residential area. A family-friendly, non-competitive walk follows the same route as the road race. Individuals, teams, wheelchair racers, and school groups are all encouraged to participate. After the race, refreshments, activities, and vendor tables will be located near registration, and awards will be given out. 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.

 

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. The magazine will continue to accept nominations for the class of 2016 until 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 12. The nomination form, which can be found at businesswest.com, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community. An independent panel of judges (see profiles on page 9 of this issue) will choose the winners, and their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

Court Dockets

By
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.

FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT

Holly K. Michaelson, M.D. v. Kellogg Co. and U.S. Foods
Allegation: Plaintiff suffered oral lacerations, internal bleeding, abdominal pain, and bowel trauma after ingesting Kellogg cereal containing shards of glass: $25,000+
Filed: 10/20/15

GREENFIELD DISTRICT COURT

Burek Brothers Construction v. A.C.E. Coatings Unlimited Inc. and Bernard Woodard
Allegation: Non-payment of services rendered: $12,550
Filed: 12/11/15

Morais Concrete Service Inc. v. Town of Orange
Allegation: Breach of a public construction contract: $20,188.11
Filed: 11/20/15

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

Ryder Transportation Services v. Vision Beyond Transportation Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract: $187,979.76
Filed: 12/15/15

Specialty Bolt & Screw Inc. v. Crosby Queenin Properties, LLC
Allegation: Breach of lease agreement: $130,000+
Filed: 12/18/15

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT

J. Polep Distribution Services v. D Market and Sohrab Khan
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,398.09
Filed: 12/22/15

Mohawk Factoring Inc. v. Rainbow Carpet and John P. Casey
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $9,068.49
Filed: 12/24/15

Sage Engineering and Contracting Inc. v. 134 Capital Drive, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of services and materials in renovation of building: $135,602
Filed: 12/23/15

U.S. Foodservices Inc. v. West Springfield Adult Care, LLC and John Bersani
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $7,939.69
Filed: 12/21/15

Zakiyyah Lybieddin v. Leominster Credit Union and Metro Auto Sales and Services Inc.
Allegation: Defendant Leominster acted unfairly by refusing to respond to plaintiff regarding a rescission of a lease agreement with Metro: $20,620
Filed: 12/30/15

Picture This

By
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]

Taking a Stand Against Bullying

A grant proposal that Westfield Bank

A grant proposal that Westfield Bank submitted to the Mass. Bankers Assoc. Charitable Foundation on behalf of Rachel’s Challenge has resulted in a $2,000 award to that organization, which provides intervention programs designed to provide a safe, caring, and supporting learning environment and is named in honor of Rachel Scott, who was killed in the Columbine school shooting in Colorado in 1999. The award will help fund local anti-bullying efforts in the Greater Westfield area, and is in addition to the $3,500 Future Fund grant Westfield Bank awarded Rachel’s Challenge in 2015. “Bullying, harassment, and violence have no place in society — and especially not in our schools,” said James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank. Pictured with Westfield Technical Academy students are (from left) Stefan Czaporowski, the school’s principal; Stacy Waite, branch manager, Westfield Bank; Westfield Police Sgt. Eric Hall; and Kristine Hupfer, Rachel’s Challenge advisor.

 

 

 

Hoophall Classic Leadership Award

Springfield College and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Springfield College and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame presented the fourth annual Hoophall Classic Leadership Award to Springfield College sport management students Brooke Fairman and Gregory Weigert (second and third from left). Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper (left) and Hall President and CEO John Doleva (right) made the formal presentation during the 2016 Spalding Hoophall Classic at Blake Arena. Both Fairman and Weigert were key contributors during the Classic, the leading high-school basketball tournament in the country. Fairman and Weigert helped lead more than 75 student event-staff workers and more than 30 student liaisons during the event. They created and conducted training sessions for volunteers of the event; collaborated with Springfield College Office of Conferences & Special Events, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, and ESPN to ensure schedules of events; and supervised all event operations during the five-day tournament. They were each awarded a $2,500 scholarship.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pride Stores Donates $25,000 to CHD’s MaryAnne’s Kids Fund

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Pride Stores recently donated $25,000 to the Center for Human Development’s (CHD) MaryAnne’s Kids Fund, which was established to provide opportunities for children in foster care that would otherwise be unavailable to them. This donation will help continue to provide these children the means to pursue special interests in music, dance, art, sports, summer camps, and extracurricular education, and an overall positive influence that will remain with them throughout their lives.

“Pride does so much for MaryAnne’s Kids, helping foster children have opportunities that would not otherwise be available to them,” said Jim Williams, CHD’s Children and Families Program director. “We are grateful to have such a great partner in the community.”

Every year, Pride Stores sells $1 ornaments in each of its 30 locations during the holidays to support MaryAnne’s Kids. “We are grateful to all the Pride customers who support this important fund-raiser.” said Marsha Del Monte, president of Pride Stores.

Green Streets Design Workshop, Informational Session Set for Feb. 11

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — A Green Streets design workshop and informational session related to regreening the X commercial district in Springfield will be held on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Forest Park Library Community Room.

Regreen Springfield is working with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC), the Conway School of Design, the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission, and the city of Springfield to determine the feasibility of installing ‘green street’ components in the X neighborhood, and to develop recommendations that will be shared with the city’s Planning and Engineering departments as they advance possible realignment of roadway patterns at the X.

During the session, a public presentation outlining the scope of the project will be delivered, and neighborhood input and participation in the process will be solicited. An overview of the function and value of urban trees will also be presented. Students from the Conway School of Design, the PVPC, and Regreen Springfield will deliver the presentation, and it will be interactive in nature.

Country Bank Supports Abby’s House with Donation

By
Daily News

WARE — Country Bank recently Abby’s House with a check for $3,050. This donation was made possible through the Country Bank Employee Charitable Giving Program’s casual Fridays.

Each week Country Bank staff are able to wear jeans in exchange for a $5 donation to the charity of the month. The total funds collected are then matched by Country Bank. The organizations chosen for this honor are suggestions submitted by the staff at Country Bank.

Country Bank serves Central and Western Mass. with 14 offices. For more information, visit www.countrybank.com or call (800) 322-8233.

EANE Management Conference Slated for March 10

By
Daily News

AGAWAM — The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced its 12th annual Management Conference will be held on Thursday, March 10 at the Springfield Marriott, with a focus on driving business performance. The full-day conference will address how managers and supervisors can create a culture of alignment, agility, and engagement to improve organizational performance.

“Research shows that 60% of highly engaged employees report that their work is not aligned with company goals,” said Meredith Wise, EANE president. “By aligning employees to business priorities and equipping them with skills to quickly sense and lead change, companies can improve their organizational performance. Our conference is about managers and supervisors learning how alignment, agility, and engagement contribute to corporate performance.”

The program will feature Bruce Tulgan, an expert on leadership and management. He is the bestselling author of It’s Okay to Be the Boss, Managing Generation X, and his newest book, Bridging the Soft Skills Gap. The conference also includes breakout sessions, a presentation on “Building a Leadership Culture of Innovation and Energy” with Rich Trombetta of Innovation Is Easy, and an improv workshop by ConnectAnd about connecting your leadership to your team.

The cost for the program is $325 per person, with discounts for three or more. Register and learn more at eane.org/12th-annual-management-conference or call (877) 662-6444. The program will offer 6.75 credits from the HR Certification Institute. Sponsoring the program are Johnson and Hill Staffing and the Human Resource Certification Institute.

This Is the Final Week for 40 Under Forty Nominations

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest magazine will accept nominations for the 40 Under Forty Class of 2016 — the 10th class to be honored by the magazine — through the end of the work day (5 p.m.) on Friday, Feb 12.

The annual program recognizes rising stars within the Western Mass. community, which includes Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. This year’s group of 40 will be profiled in the magazine’s April 18 edition, then toasted at the June 16 gala at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke.

The nomination form, which can be found at businesswest.com/40-under-forty-nomination-form, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community.

United Way Chapters Ask Supporters to ‘Show the Love for Kids’

By
Daily News

WESTERN MASS. — United Way of Pioneer Valley, United Way of Hampshire County, and United Way of Franklin County are collaborating for a new mobile-giving campaign called “Show the Love for Kids.”

Aimed at smartphone donors, United Way’s text-to-give effort allows people to easily contribute to programs that impact the lives of children in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties.

This year, more than 75,000 children in the region will face hunger, more than 5,000 will experience abuse and neglect, and 7,000 third-graders will struggle to read at grade level. By texting the word HEART to the number 20222 via a cell phone, a donation of $10 will be made to the donor’s local United Way and programs that help kids. Centered around Valentine’s Day, the mobile-giving campaign runs through the month of February and appears as a charge on a donor’s mobile-phone bill.

“At Valentine’s Day we take the time to show our love,” said Jim Ayres, executive director of United Way of Hampshire County. “Let’s take time to show the love to kids who are struggling and craving support for a positive future. As you get ready to make dinner reservations, buy flowers, and pick up chocolates, also take the time to send a quick text message that makes a difference.”

Added Dora Robinson, president and CEO of United Way of Pioneer Valley, “we are delighted to collaborate with our United Way partners on a great text-to-give initiative. We hope our community will embrace text-to-give and make a big difference for children in the Pioneer Valley.”

Greater Westfield Chamber to Present Legislative Luncheon March 25

By
Daily News

WESTFIELD — The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce will hold its Legislative Luncheon on Friday, March 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield.

Legislators attending include state Sens. Don Humason and Ben Downing, and state Reps. Nicholas Boldyga, Peter Kocot, William Pignatelli, and John Velis. This event provides an opportunity to raise business concerns to area legislators, and to hear about challenges facing the Commonwealth, its communities, and its businesses.

Sponsorship opportunities include gold sponsor for $500, silver sponsor for $250, and small-business sponsor for $25.

To reserve tickets or inquire about sponsorships, call Pam Bussell at (413) 568-1618 or e-mail [email protected]. The cost is $30 for members and $40 in advance for non-members. RSVP by Monday, March 21.

Leadership Institute 2016 Begins This Week

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University and the Springfield Regional Chamber are partnering to offer “Leadership 2016: Skills for Personal, Organizational, and Community Development.” Seven consecutive sessions will be held from 1 to 4:30 p.m. every Thursday from Feb. 11 through March 24.

This year’s Leadership Institute includes an emphasis on strategies and techniques designed to create high-energy and high-involvement leadership. Sessions will focus on problem solving, learning to ask the right questions, and implementing creative and innovative solutions for both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Participants will actively explore best practices of leaders; analyze their own leadership, learning, and problem-solving styles; and experience the synergies that result from high-performing teams. The emphasis will be on experiential activities that provide opportunities to identify, develop, and refine skill sets for effective leadership.

The tuition cost, including a day trip to Boston and graduation dinner, is $885 per participant. All sessions are held in the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Parking will be validated. For more information about the program application process, or tuition, contact Kara Cavanaugh at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected]. This program is sponsored by MassMutual Financial Group and supported by the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation.

Advertising Club Scholarship Applications Available

By
Daily News

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

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

In 2016, the club will award two $1,000 scholarships, rather than one, thanks in part to a donation from Garvey Communication Associates Inc. to fund a second award.

Completed scholarship applications and all support materials must be submitted to the Ad Club and postmarked by Friday, Feb. 26. Scholarship decisions are made by the scholarship committee of Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts, and are considered final. The scholarship will be awarded at the Ad Club’s Creative Awards show in May.

Montessori School of Northampton Launches Middle-school Program

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Montessori School of Northampton (MSN) will open Northampton’s first independent middle school in September, aiming to take education well beyond the four walls of the classroom.

“Our middle-schoolers will benefit from the unique materials, intensively trained teachers, and self-directed learning for which Montessori schools are known worldwide,” said Susan Swift, head of school. “But they will also work and learn at local farms, theaters, and businesses, and do service projects to benefit the local community.”

To lead MSN’s middle-school program, the school has hired Corey Hadden, a Montessori-trained and experienced middle-school teacher. He is also an apprentice trainer on the staff of the Cincinnati Montessori Secondary Teacher Education Program and has many years of experience with Outward Bound as well as mindfulness training. His goal as middle-school teacher is to help students understand themselves as part of a community — and part of a bigger world.

“Our out-in-the-community curriculum was designed with the specific developmental needs of adolescents in mind,” he said. “As any parent of a 12-year old will tell you, these kids are in transition, changing from children to teenagers. Their bodies, their minds, their self-image are all in flux. The experience of doing meaningful work alongside adults and one another will help build a sense of self, with purpose, responsibility, and a love for learning that will help them succeed as they enter high school and beyond.”

MSN is holding free middle-school information sessions for interested families, members of the media, and the public, at Lilly Library in Florence on Saturday, Feb. 6 at 10:30 a.m., and at Edwards Public Library in Southampton on Thursday, Feb. 25 at 5 p.m. For more information, call Laura Frogameni, director of Admissions, at (413) 586-4538, or visit northamptonmontessori.org.

Demolition of I-91 Viaduct Deck Begins Feb. 10

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — MassDOT’s contractor, the joint venture of White-Schiavone, will begin demolishing the I-91 viaduct’s reinforced concrete bridge deck on Wednesday, Feb. 10. The work will take place in the inner northbound lane of the viaduct along the median, which is currently closed. The contractor will work a day shift (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and a night shift (4 p.m. to midnight) on Mondays through Fridays.

Demolition of the inner northbound lane deck is expected to continue through April 2017. Demolition of other portions of the viaduct deck will continue through summer 2017.

White-Schiavone will use several noise mitigation techniques during demolition. It has proactively installed noise curtains along the work zone in noise-sensitive areas. Additional curtains may be installed as required once initial noise readings are taken after demolition activities have started. In addition, all heavy trucks and equipment have been retrofitted with self-adjusting backup alarms, which limit the sound to a set volume above the ambient (background) noise. The JV has also taken initial readings of ambient noise in the work zone to establish a baseline for comparison. All equipment has been tested to ensure it is operating within the manufacturer’s specification.

Those traveling through the area should follow the reduced speed limits and use caution. MassDOT encourages drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes to minimize delays.

For more information about the project, visit www.mass.gov/massdot/i91viaductrehab. To report issues or concerns, or with questions related to construction, e-mail [email protected] or call (617) 454-1839.

PeoplesBank Announces Promotions, Appointments

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — PeoplesBank announced the promotions and appointments of three officers: Beverly Farnham, Amos McLeod III, and Nancy Robinson.

Farnham has been promoted to loan service officer. She possesses close to two decades of financial and banking experience. She first joined the bank in 1996 and previously served as loan service specialist. She has earned diplomas for financial services operations and consumer lending from the Center of Financial Training. She has been volunteering for the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Road Race for more than a decade.

McLeod has been appointed to senior credit analyst officer. He brings more than a decade of banking experience to his new position. He will be responsible for understanding and managing the credit risk and loan quality of the bank’s commercial real-estate and loan portfolios. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Springfield College and is a graduate of the School of Commercial Lending Program at Babson College. He serves as treasurer of Friends of the Huntington Public Library and volunteers for the United Way of Pioneer Valley.

Robinson has been promoted to internal audit officer. She possesses more than a decade of banking and financial experience. She first joined the bank in 2012 and previously served as financial analyst. She holds a master’s degree in accounting and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western New England University. She serves on the board of the Connecticut River Valley Golden Retriever Club. She also volunteers for Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and Children’s Study Home.

Six Flags Hiring 3,000 Seasonal Employees for 2016 Season

By
Daily News

AGAWAM — Six Flags New England, the region’s largest theme park, is hiring 3,000 seasonal employees for the 2016 season, opening April 9.

The annual job fair is being held on Friday, Feb. 26 from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will take place at the Human Resources building at 1756 Main St., Agawam. The park is hiring for all positions, including admissions, culinary services, games, lifeguards, loss prevention, park services, EMT, security, entertainment, retail, and rides.

Interested applicants must be at least 16 years old and should be prepared for on-the-spot interviews, so appropriate dress is encouraged. It is recommended that all interested candidates apply online at sixflagsjobs.com prior to arrival.

In addition, entertainment auditions will be held on Sunday, Feb. 21 and Sunday, Feb. 28 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Human Resources building. Six Flags is seeking actors, dancers, characters, superheroes, drummers, and technical staff for spring and summer shows.

All applicants are encouraged to arrive early. Interviewees will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis, with limited positions in specialty areas. Anyone with questions may contact Human Resources at (413) 786-9300, ext. 3100.

Bombay Royale Restaurant Opens in Northampton

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — On Tuesday, Pramod Warriar, Vince George, and Vargheese Athimootil opened Bombay Royale, a new Indian restaurant at 52 Crafts Ave. in One Roundhouse Plaza in downtown Northampton.

Bombay Royale offers Indian fare from all regions of India, including the north and south. The restaurant specializes in fresh, healthy menu items and does not use monosodium glutamate, otherwise known as MSG. Bombay Royale also offers gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options.

“We are one of the few Indian restaurants in this area offering south Indian cuisine with dishes such as the masala dosa, a crispy rice lentil crepe with potatoes,” said George.

A buffet meal option is offered weekdays from noon to 2:30 p.m. and weekends from noon to 3 p.m. Bombay Royale will also offer a la carte menu items, lunch boxes, gift cards, and catering services for holidays, weddings, and other events.

George has 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry and previously managed Karavalli Regional Cuisine of India in Latham, N.Y. Warriar has more than 30 years of experience and also operates Bombay in Lee. Athimootil works full-time for the state of New York as an engineer and also has worked in the restaurant industry for several years.

To learn more about Bombay Royale, visit www.bombayroyale.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 341-3537.

Michele Ouimet-Rooke Nominated as Springfield District Court Judge

By
Daily News

BOSTON — Gov. Charlie Baker has nominated Michele Ouimet-Rooke, an attorney with more than 17 years of experience in Western Mass. courts, to serve as a judge in Springfield District Court.

“Michele Ouimet-Rooke offers the court a great combination of experience in both civil and criminal legal matters drawn from her career in public service and private practice in Western Massachusetts,” Baker said. “I am pleased to recommend an individual with such broad experience to the Governor’s Council for their consideration.”

Added Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, “the first two District Court openings our administration has sought to fill are in Hampden County, and we are pleased to make this second nomination to the Springfield District Court. If confirmed, we know that Ms. Ouimet-Rooke will serve her hometown with distinction.”

Ouimet-Rooke, a native and resident of Springfield, joined the practice of Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury and Murphy in 2002 as an associate representing plaintiffs and defendants in a variety of litigations, including employment and discrimination law, premise and product liability, insurance defense, landlord/tenant issues, criminal defense, and business litigation, becoming a partner in 2012.

She began her career in the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office as a victim/witness advocate for eight years before becoming an assistant district attorney and chief prosecutor. She obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Springfield College and her juris doctor from Western New England College School of Law in 1999.

Applicants for judicial openings are reviewed by the statewide Judicial Nominating Commission and recommended to the governor. All judicial nominations are subject to the advice and consent of the Governor’s Council.

There are 62 district courts throughout the Commonwealth hearing a range of criminal, civil, housing, juvenile, mental-health, and other cases, including all felonies punishable by a sentence up to five years, misdemeanors, and violations of city and town ordinances and by-laws. Springfield is located in Region 6, which includes courts in Chicopee, Eastern Hampshire, Greenfield, Holyoke, Northern Berkshire, Northampton, Orange, Palmer, Southern Berkshire, and Westfield.

BusinessWest Seeks Nominations for Continued Excellence Award

By
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.

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 2007-2015. 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.

The nomination deadline is April 1 at 5 p.m., no exceptions.

Christopher Buono Joins CompuWorks as VCIO

By
Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Christopher Buono has joined the CompuWorks HealthyIT team as virtual chief information officer. As a VCIO, he guides clients through the critical process of aligning technology decisions with organizational goals by understanding where the company is today and its vision for the future.

Buono has worked in the information-technology field for more than 20 years, including 12 years in leadership roles. He holds a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from the University at Albany Business School and attended the MBA program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s Lally School of Management. He holds numerous technical certifications, including Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, Certified Novell Engineer, Certified Information Systems Security Professional, and Cisco Certified Network Administration. He serves on the board for Community Health Programs and on the strategic planning committee for WAM Theatre.

According to CompuWorks partner Alan Bauman, “we are very pleased to have Chris on our team and to be able to offer his depth and breadth of experience and perspective to meet the IT challenges of our clients.”

Blue Heron to Host Dinner, Conversation About Race in America

By
Daily News

SUNDERLAND — On Sunday, Feb. 21, Blue Heron Restaurant will host “On the Bus: Dinner and a Conversation About Race in America with Julius Lester and Barry Moser.”

Lester and Moser, writers, educators, and artists who currently reside in Western Mass., both came of age in Tennessee in the 1950s and 60s. Although they both rode public buses in the South, their experiences differed greatly because of the color of their skin. Their experience provides a lens through which the two will begin a discussion on race, racism, and segregation in the U.S.

Local poet, author, and gallery owner Richard Michelson will moderate the discussion. Guests will be invited to pose questions to the panelists and share their own thoughts and experiences on the subject.

The evening’s menu will draw from the culinary heritage of the American South. The meal will begin with a root vegetable soup served with pimento-cheese crostini. For the main course, guests will choose from a selection of chicken-fried steak with cream gravy, fried catfish with jalapeño remoulade, or squash and cheddar soufflé. Side dishes will be served family-style, and include collard greens, hoppin’ John, sautéed okra, and housemade biscuits. The meal will conclude with a slice of chess pie, a staple of Southern cuisine.

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the cost is $40 per person, not including tax or gratuity. The full menu is available to view at www.blueherondining.com/special-events. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (413) 665-2102 or e-mailing [email protected].

Link to Libraries Appoints Andrew Anderlonis to Board of Directors

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Daily News

HAMPDEN — Local nonprofit Link to Libraries has appointed Andrew Anderlonis to its executive board of directors. Anderlonis is president of Rediker Software, a leading school administrative software company located in Hampden.

Rediker helps schools utilize the latest technologies to streamline processes and improve communication. Anderlonis will bring his innovative thinking, along with his strong business and leadership experience, to the Link to Libraries executive board.

“Link to Libraries is such an important organization in promoting literacy in our community,” he said. “The fact that Link to Libraries has donated over 400,000 books throughout New England without any paid staff is truly inspiring. Rediker Software serves many of the schools that Link to Libraries serves as well, and I couldn’t be more proud to join their executive board of directors.”

A graduate of George Washington University with a BBA in international business and management information systems, Anderlonis was a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy’s elite nuclear program prior to coming to Rediker Software. He is a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization.

Employer Confidence Steady to Start 2016

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BOSTON — Confidence among Massachusetts employers remained steady during January as optimism about the state economy offset uncertainty about China and turbulent financial markets.

The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index rose 0.5 points to 55.8 last month, starting 2016 well above the 50 mark that denotes a positive economic outlook. The increase was driven by a 1.8-point surge in the index measuring employer attitudes about Massachusetts. Confidence remained lower than it was in January 2015, however.

“The fact that employer confidence remained solid during a month in which the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index was at one point off 9% and oil dropped below $27 a barrel points to the fundamental, underlying strength of the Massachusetts economy,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA) and lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Design.

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

The index ended 2015 down for the year, but remained consistently in optimistic territory for the first 12-month period since the Great Recession.

Most of the sub-indices based on selected questions or categories of employer rose a point or two in January, though all remained down year over year.

The Massachusetts Index, assessing business conditions within the Commonwealth, jumped 1.8 points to 58.1, starting the year more than a point lower than last January.

“The Massachusetts Index has been above its national counterpart for 80 consecutive months, and that perception was bolstered by the decision in January by General Electric to locate its corporate headquarters in Boston,” Torto said. “GE’s decision was important, not only for the 800 jobs it will bring, but because the company cited Massachusetts’ leadership in knowledge industries as its reason for coming.”

The U.S. Index of national business conditions slipped to 49.9 on the month, leaving it more than four points lower than a year ago. The Current Index, which assesses overall business conditions at the time of the survey, increased slightly to 54.6, while the Future Index, measuring expectations for six months out, rose almost a full point to 57.0.

“Employers clearly do not believe that the correction in financial markets signals an overall economic slowdown,” said Alan Clayton-Matthews, associated professor of Economics and Public Policy at Northeastern University and a BEA member. “Massachusetts employers foresee positive business conditions through at least the first half of 2016, and that comports with economic forecasts that Massachusetts will reach full employment during the year.”

The three sub-indices bearing on survey respondents’ own operations were mixed in January. The Company Index, reflecting overall business conditions, was up 0.3 points at 57.0, the Sales Index shed 1.1 points to 57.1, and the Employment Index rose 1.3 points to 55.1.

“The increase in the Employment Index is good news for Massachusetts. Our survey found that 39% of respondents reported adding staff during the past six months, while 19% reduced employment,” said Katherine Kiel, professor of Economics at College of the Holy Cross and another BEA member. “Expectations for the next six months are even stronger — 37% hiring and only 10% downsizing.”

Time Is Running Out for 40 Under Forty Nominations

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SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest magazine will accept nominations for the 40 Under Forty Class of 2016 — the 10th class to be honored by the magazine — through the end of the work day (5 p.m.) on Friday, Feb 12.

The annual program recognizes rising stars within the Western Mass. community, which includes Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. This year’s group of 40 will be profiled in the magazine’s April 18 edition, then toasted at the June 16 gala at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke.

The nomination form, which can be found online at businesswest.com, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community.

Bay Path Online Learning Platform Shortlisted for Prestigious Awards

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Daily News

LONGMEADOW — Social Online Universal Learning (SOUL) at Bay Path University’s American Women’s College was shortlisted for the Wharton-QS Stars Reimagine Education 2015 Awards, a ceremony billed as the ‘Oscars of higher education.’

The second annual Wharton-QS Stars Reimagine Education Conference, which took place in Philadelphia, brought together more than 300 delegates representing some of the world’s most influential universities and companies to discuss innovation in higher education, consider ways to improve pedagogy and employability, and reward the best projects that aim to do so. Key industry and thought leaders like William Rankin, director of Learning at Apple; Jaime Casap, chief education evangelist at Google; Caroline Howard, senior editor at Forbes; and Sean Coughlan, education correspondent at BBC News, were among the attendees of the event.

More than 150 projects were submitted this year, aiming to win prizes in 14 categories, with the overall winner receiving a $50,000 prize.

Bay Path’s SOUL is a set of cutting-edge online tools and resources developed to make each student’s college experience more personal, supportive, and successful. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education’s Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE), SOUL is the first program of its kind in the nation.

FutureWorks Welcomes Six New Board of Directors Members

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — FutureWorks Career Center announced the addition of six new directors to the organization’s board: Brian Connors, deputy director, Economic Development, city of Springfield; Kermit Dunkelberg, assistant vice president, Workforce Development, Holyoke Community College; Marylou Fabbo, attorney, Skoler, Abbott & Presser; Mike Grandfield, senior vice president, commercial relationship manager, Berkshire Bank; George Kohout, director, ABE/ESOL Services, Springfield Technical Community College; and Vicki Shrewsbury, director, Talent Acquisition, Smith & Wesson.

Board president MacArthur Starks Jr., assistant vice president at MassMutual, said the group will bring a fresh focus to the organization.

“Each newly added board member brings experience and a wealth of diverse knowledge related to workforce issues, career centers, and the challenges confronting our labor market,” he noted. “The volunteer board works to focus FutureWorks’ mission of advancing the careers of our customers and supporting the needs of local business. This includes strengthening program services, financial oversight, and enhancing our public standing.”

Paul Doherty: An Appreciation

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Daily News

Where does one begin when talking about the accomplishments and legacy of Paul Doherty, who passed away recently after a lengthy battle with lung cancer?
Is it with his success as a lawyer and with the firm he grew into one of the largest in the region — Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy? Or is it with the fact that he was a devoted family man? Maybe it should be with the many aspects of his work within the community, as both activist and philanthropist. Or maybe it’s his work as a truly relentless advocate for this region and especially the city of Springfield.

Maybe the best place to begin is by saying all of that is really just the beginning.

Indeed, one can’t easily sum up the many contributions Paul — often working in tandem with his wife of 55 years, Dianne — made to the larger community we call Western Mass. He was heavily involved in business, education, philanthropy (he was one of the founders of Valley Gives), race relations, and a host of efforts to promote the City of Homes. He lent his considerable talents and imagination to everything from the United Way to the Economic Development Council of Western Mass., to the adoption agency Downey Side, which he co-founded.

Those who knew and worked with him called him a friend, mentor, and inspiration.

People who become as active in their community as Paul often note that they have a hard time saying ‘no’ when people ask them to contribute their time and energy to a cause or initiative. Paul did, in fact, have that problem, if one could call it that. But he could go one better — or even two.

Usually, he didn’t have to say ‘yes’ or ‘no,’ because he didn’t wait to be asked to get involved. He was an initiator, the one who would ask others if they wanted to get involved.

And perhaps his very best quality was getting others to say ‘yes’ and follow his lead.

Because of this rare and special talent, this region is a better place — a much better place.
And that’s why he will certainly be missed.

Have You Ordered Your Difference Makers Tickets?

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House on Thursday, March 31.

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 online at businesswest.com. 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.

Tickets cost $60, and tables of 10 are available. To reserve a spot, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, or visit businesswest.com. 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.

Michael’s Party Rentals to Move into New Location

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Daily News

LUDLOW — Michael’s Party Rentals Inc., located in Ludlow, recently purchased a building at 1221 South Main St. in Palmer. The new building gives the rental company more than double its current space, providing more than 20,000 square feet.

“I have been looking for quite a long time to find the right building to solve our space issues,” said Michael Linton, president and owner. “Landing in Palmer was perfect because we service west to Albany and east to Boston, as well as north and south from Vermont to Southern Connecticut; this gives the team terrific access.” The additional space is needed to hold Michael’s ever-growing inventory of special-event equipment, including items obtained during its recent acquisition of Yankee Tents.

The migration of the tents, chairs, and china from Ludlow to the new building will not happen until late spring, as Linton plans a major renovation of the building, including 1,000 square feet of office space, as well as a 2,000-square-foot Show Room and Design Center, where a client can plan an event.

“This is the part I am most excited about,” said Melissa Sullivan, senior event coordinator and director of the Design Center. “It is going to be so amazing to actually be able to help a client visualize their event by creating a mini-version for them to touch and feel.”

In addition, Michael’s will be adding a state-of-the-art tent-washing machine, the only one of its kind in the Pioneer Valley. The total project is expected to cost just shy of $750,000 and was financed by Chicopee Savings Bank and the Worcester Business Development Corp.

Boy Scouts Names Ruthann Eagen Berkshire County District Executive

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Daily News

PITTSFIELD — The Western Massachusetts Council, Boy Scouts of America, welcomed Ruthann Eagen to its professional team. She will serve as the district executive for the Appalachian Trail District, which serves the communities in Berkshire County as well as several of the surrounding hilltowns.

Eagen is no stranger to scouting. At 14 years old, she joined the Nassau County (N.Y.) Law Enforcement Exploring Program, a career-exploration program run through the Learning for Life division of the Boy Scouts of America. During her time as an Explorer, she gained leadership skills and attained the rank of two-star chief before aging out and becoming an adult advisor.

“I also got to experience scouting by watching my brother rise through the ranks of his troop to become an ordeal member of Order of the Arrow and earn the rank of Eagle Scout,” said Eagen, who hopes to bring her experience and knowledge from both Explorers and Boy Scouts to her role as district executive.

She has an associate degree in liberal arts from Nassau Community College, a bachelor’s degree in criminology from State University of New York (SUNY) at Old Westbury, and a business administration certificate from Nassau Community College, and she is currently working on her master’s degree in human services and leadership from St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue, N.Y.

New Members Appointed to STCC Board of Trustees

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) recently welcomed three new members to its board of trustees: Steven Grande, Franklin Quigley, and Macarthur Starks Jr.

Grande is president of Meridian Industrial Group, LLC in Holyoke and Springfield. He also serves on the Holyoke Taxpayers Assoc. is vice chair of the advisory committee at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, chairs the Mayor’s Industrial Development Advisory Council, serves on board of directors for the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, is a member of the advisory board for William J. Dean Technical High School; and is president of the board of directors for the Western Massachusetts National Tooling and Machining Assoc. Grande holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and criminal justice from American International College.

Quigley, an STCC alumnus, serves on the STCC foundation board and is a member of the presidential search committee. He is the president of FD Quigley and Associates, an organization specializing in providing project-management services to commercial retail developers; is a member of the state board of directors for Special Olympics; and is a retired referee of the American Hockey League.

Starks, a senior finance and leadership professional, is an assistant vice president/change agent at MassMutual Way Center of Excellence, at MassMutual Life Insurance Company. Starks also serves as board chair and treasurer of FutureWorks Career Center in Springfield. A graduate of STCC (‘88), Starks received a master’s in management information systems and a bachelor of arts in accounting from Western New England University.

Euro-style Kart Track to Open in Hadley in March

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Daily News

HADLEY — Get ready to start your engines — Autobahn Indoor Speedway will open in March in the Hampshire Mall.

“Indoor kart racing has been popular in Europe for many years and has recently found a strong following on the West Coast of the United States,” said Autobahn Managing Partner David Larson. “Autobahn Indoor Speedway is extremely excited to be bringing the first European-style indoor electric kart-racing facility to the Amherst area.”

The Italian-made adult racing karts approach speeds of 50 mph.  The speedway utilizes zero-emission electric karts that accelerate faster than their noisier, gas-powered counterparts.

“These are not the slow, rattling go-carts you may be used to as a kid,” Larson said. “Our karts are the highest-performance available, state of the art and built for safety.  One of the first things people notice is the torque of our electric motors — that acceleration is amazing. The handling is also top of the line, with hydraulic disc brakes, a rear differential, and competition-style racing tires.”

The company, which will have a total of nine tracks on the East Coast by April, provides racing instruction to newbies and offers competitive leagues to more seasoned drivers. There are even Junior Karts (with slightly slower speeds) suitable for the younger crowd if they are at least 48 inches tall.

Autobahn Indoor Speedway will be available for company outings, social groups, and birthday parties. Various group race packages are designed to meet the needs of most events, but a custom package can be arranged (including private, full-facility rentals). Groups have reserved race times and exclusive use of the track during their races, and they can compete individually or in teams.

For more information, visit www.autobahnspeed.com or e-mail [email protected].

Attorney Steven Schwartz Named Distinguished Advisor in Philanthropy

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Local law firm Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. announced that attorney Steven Schwartz is the recipient of the Distinguished Advisor in Philanthropy Award.

The award is presented annually by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts in partnership with the Estate Planning Council of Hampden County and the Pioneer Valley Estate Planning Council. Each year, the award’s recipient may recommend a Hampden, Hampshire, or Franklin county charity of their choice to receive a $1,000 grant. This year, Schwartz has decided to recommend the grant be made to the Children’s Study Home in recognition of its 150 anniversary.

Schwartz concentrates his practice in the areas of family-business planning, mergers and acquisitions, corporate law, and estate planning. His practice involves representation of principals in family-business planning (including exit planning for business owners), representation of individuals and corporations in the purchase and sale of business enterprises, strategic planning for the future of clients’ businesses, and providing advice on alternatives in financing through loans and venture capital.

Schwartz is a graduate of the Boston University School of Law and Babson College. He is regularly selected to both the Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America lists. He is a member of the Hampden County, Massachusetts, and New York State bar associations.

He is also a member of several civic and community organizations, including the William J. Gould Associates Inc. residential therapeutic community, Pioneer Valley Council Boy Scouts of America, Berkshire Hatchery Foundation, Attorneys for Family-Held Enterprises, and Family Firm Institute. He previously served as a member of Springfield Technical Community College, major gifts campaign, steering committee; World Affairs Council Inc.; Parents Fund, Rhode Island School of Design (of which he is also a founder); Institutional Advancement Committee, Rhode Island School of Design; Western New England Enterprise Forum (of which he is also a co-founder); Springfield Tax Club; Urban League; Jewish Community Center; and South End Community Center.

“I am deeply humbled to have been selected for this award,” he said. “The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts has continued to devote itself to promote charities and nonprofits and has enhanced the quality of life for many people in our region.”

Founded in 1991, the Community Foundation administers a charitable endowment consisting of nearly 600 separately identified funds serving Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties.